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Headlines

Former Imo Commissioner Arrested in Abuja For Criticizing Governor Hope Uzodinma

by Nelson Ugwuagbo November 28, 2024

written by Nelson Ugwuagbo

The Nigeria Police Force has reportedly arrested Dr. Fabian Ihekweme, a former commissioner and outspoken critic of Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma.

Ihekweme was allegedly detained at his Abuja residence on Wednesday in the presence of his wife and children. He was subsequently transported to Owerri, the Imo State capital.

Human rights lawyer Deji Adeyanju condemned the arrest on Thursday, describing it as an assault on free speech. In a statement on social media, Adeyanju claimed Ihekweme’s criticism of Governor Uzodimma was the reason for his detention.

“Dr. Fabian Ihekweme was abducted by policemen yesterday in front of his wife and children at their Abuja home and taken to Owerri. His crime: criticizing Hope Uzodimma, Imo State governor,” Adeyanju wrote.

Adeyanju further accused the government of using repressive tactics to silence dissent, warning of the implications for democracy in Nigeria.

The arrest has drawn widespread condemnation from human rights activists and political commentators, who allege a growing trend of using state security forces to suppress opposition voices. Critics have accused the Uzodimma administration of leveraging its authority to intimidate detractors.

As of now, the Nigeria Police Force has not released an official statement regarding former commissioner Ihekweme’s arrest or provided details of any charges against him.

November 28, 2024 0 comments

Headlines

Edo Police Inspector Fired for Taking Bribe to Suppress Rape Allegation

by Nelson Ugwuagbo November 28, 2024

written by Nelson Ugwuagbo

The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has dismissed Inspector Edith Uduma for allegedly collecting a bribe to conceal a rape case involving Sergeant Abraham Uzuobo.

Uzuobo was accused of raping a 17-year-old female suspect detained at the South-Ibie Police Station in Edo State. The suspect was in custody for allegedly receiving stolen property.

In October, a video surfaced on social media showing Uzuobo hurriedly wearing his trousers while the female suspect lay on a chair in a room at the police station. In the video, Uzuobo was seen confronting a female officer recording the incident.

Uduma, identified as the officer recording the video, was the charge room officer (CRO) on duty at the time. Instead of reporting the incident, Uduma allegedly involved her husband, Inspector Ibrahim Mohammed, in demanding a bribe from Uzuobo.

According to Muyiwa Adejobi, NPF spokesperson, Uduma and her husband initially demanded ₦1 million from Uzuobo to suppress the case. Uzuobo reportedly paid ₦45,000 in cash, but after refusing further payments, the couple reported the incident to the divisional police officer (DPO) and shared the video online.

Adejobi confirmed that disciplinary actions were taken against all parties involved. Uzuobo has been dismissed, prosecuted, and is currently in prison awaiting trial. Uduma was dismissed from the force, while her husband was demoted to the rank of sergeant.

Adejobi also addressed allegations made by Uduma following her dismissal. He emphasized that thorough investigations provided irrefutable evidence of her misconduct, including failure to report the incident, attempts to conceal it, extortion, and compromising the justice process for personal gain.

“The dismissal of former Inspector Edith Uduma was necessary and justified,” Adejobi said in a statement. “Her actions violated the ethical standards of the police force.”

November 28, 2024 0 comments

Headlines

House of Representatives Confirms Oluyede As Army Chief

by Nelson Ugwuagbo November 28, 2024

written by Nelson Ugwuagbo

The House of Representatives has confirmed Olufemi Oluyede as the Chief of Army Staff (COAS).

The confirmation followed the presentation of a report by Babajimi Benson, Chairman of the Committee on Defence, during Thursday’s plenary session.

Oluyede had been screened on Wednesday by the joint committee on army and defence before the report was submitted to the lower legislative chamber.

Details Later…

November 28, 2024 0 comments

Headlines

‘I’m not afraid of death’ Bishop TD Jakes addresses recent health emergency

by Folarin Kehinde November 28, 2024

written by Folarin Kehinde

Bishop TD Jakes has assured his followers that he is “not afraid to die” as he addressed the public for the first time following a recent health emergency.

In a heartfelt video shared Wednesday evening, Bishop TD Jakes expressed gratitude to his medical team and those who prayed for him after he fell ill during Sunday services at his church, The Potter’s House, in Dallas.

Seated in a wheelchair in what appeared to be a hospital setting, the renowned megachurch leader thanked God for sparing his life, clarifying that his condition was not a stroke but could have been fatal without divine intervention.

“I’m so grateful. So grateful to y’all,” Jakes said emotionally, gesturing toward medical staff in blue scrubs.

“All the people who prayed. All the people who texted. All the people who had prayer vigils. All the people who were concerned and sent love and notes. Just grateful. Thank you,” he added.

In a powerful moment, Bishop TD Jakes continued, “I’m not afraid to die. I don’t want to hurt my kids and the people who love me and my church that needs me. The world who called me and the God who sent me. Sometimes you just got to be grateful.”

The 67-year-old pastor had been delivering a sermon when he suddenly sat down and began trembling.

Church members quickly gathered around him, and the live broadcast of the service was abruptly stopped.

The Potter’s House later released a statement on social media, saying, “During today’s service, Bishop T.D. Jakes experienced a slight health incident and received immediate medical attention following his powerful hourlong message. Bishop Jakes is stable and under the care of medical professionals.

The entire Potter’s House family is grateful for the outpouring of love, prayers and support from the community.”

As for his recovery, Jakes indicated he is focusing on rest and reflection. “My job is to recuperate and reflect on God’s protection,” he said in his Instagram statement. “I owe it to my amazing family and church members to rest and ruminate as He restores me towards His service.”

November 28, 2024 0 comments

Headlines

BREAKING: Senate passes tax reform bills for second reading

by Folarin Kehinde November 28, 2024

written by Folarin Kehinde

The Senate on Thursday passed for second reading the four controversial tax reform bills transmitted to it by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

This followed a lead debate on the bills presented by Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele (APC, Ekiti Central) and debated by senators during plenary.

Recall that some top officials in Tinubu’s government yesterday appeared before the Senate where they made detailed presentations on the bills.

Northern governors, traditional rulers, and Northern Elders Forum had earlier rejected the bills, saying the proposed bills were not in the interest of the nation.

Details later…..

November 28, 2024 0 comments

Headlines

Alhassan Abdullahi emerge new NUJ President

by Folarin Kehinde November 28, 2024

written by Folarin Kehinde

Alhassan Yahya Abdullahi from Gombe State has emerged as the new President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) at the 8th Triennial National Delegates Conference held in Owerri, Imo State.

Yahaya secured a landslide victory with 436 votes, defeating Dele Atunbi of the FCT Council, who received 97 votes, and Muhammed Garba of the Kaduna Council, who scored only 39 votes.

Yahaya, who works with the Gombe Media Corporation (GMC), was the immediate National Deputy President of the NUJ and succeeds Chris Isiguzo as the president of the association.

Also, Mrs. Abimbola Oyetunde, a Deputy Director at the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), also emerged unopposed as the Deputy National President.

All other positions were also returned unopposed.
In his acceptance speech, Yahya pledged to advance the interests and welfare of NUJ members, defend press freedom, and uphold high journalistic standards.

He emphasised collaboration with stakeholders to ensure journalists operate safely and freely while advocating for their rights and safety.

“My administration will focus on capacity-building initiatives, including workshops, training, and mentorship programs to enhance our members’ skills,” he stated.

The new NUJ president also highlighted plans to leverage technology and innovation to adapt to the evolving media landscape and foster stronger networks among journalists and media organisations.

Abdullahi further stressed the importance of collaboration with government bodies, civil society, and media owners to create a supportive environment for journalism to thrive in Nigeria.

Meanwhile, Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, has congratulated Abdullahi on his election as the National President of the NUJ.

In a statement by his spokesman, Governor Yahaya expressed joy over Abdullahi’s resounding victory, describing it as a remarkable achievement and a source of immense pride for the state and the entire journalism community.

From your humble beginning at the chapel level to your stellar service at the state, zonal, and national levels, you have consistently demonstrated unmatched courage, integrity, and passion for the cause of journalism and the welfare of journalists.

“Your election as the National President of the NUJ is a reflection of the trust journalists across Nigeria have in your capacity to lead. Your commitment, integrity, and vision have made you a shining example of what it means to be a leader in the field of journalism,” the governor said.

Governor Inuwa Yahaya assured Comrade Alhassan of the support, solidarity and goodwill of the government and people of Gombe State.

“As you begin this noble task, rest assured that Gombe State will stand firmly behind you. We are confident that under your leadership, the NUJ will witness a new era of progress, unity, and professionalism that will further elevate the role of journalism in promoting national development.

“Your victory is not only a win for the NUJ but also an indication of the strong values of leadership, determination, and excellence that you embody,” he added.

November 28, 2024 0 comments

Headlines

18 years after FG finally set to conduct census, reveals date

by Folarin Kehinde November 28, 2024

written by Folarin Kehinde

The Chairman of the National Population Commission (NPC), Nasir Isa Kwarra, has disclosed that Nigeria’s belated census will hold in 2025.

Kwarra made the revelation at the 2024 Anniversary on the Nairobi Summit on International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) on Thursday in Abuja.

Recall that despite the United Nations recommending Population census to be hold in countries every 10 years, Nigeria last conducted its own in 2006, making the country 18 years without accurate figure of its citizens.

While the country was supposed to hold the census in 2023, the exercise was botched after missing two dates it was scheduled under the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari.

The administration had predicated the cancellation on wanting the incoming administration that won the 2023 elections to own the census exercise.

But Kwarra in his speech noted that major setback Nigeria faces is the delay in conducting a population and housing census which is fundamental for informed decision-making.

He said the delay in conducting the census, particularly in the face of logistical and financial constraints, had hindered efforts to assess the full scope of population needs and allocate resources effectively, especially in rural and underserved areas.

“This gap in accurate population data poses challenges in tailoring reproductive health services and interventions to specific demographic groups, ultimately undermining progress toward reducing maternal mortality and improving access to family planning.

“We are gathered in the spirit of a shared commitment to progress, inclusivity, and the empowerment of individuals, particularly women and young people. Our focus is on advancing sexual and reproductive health, eliminating gender-based violence (GBV), and promoting equal opportunities for everyone in our nation.

“We must continue our march to address these challenges head-on. For many in our communities—particularly women, girls, and young people—sexual and reproductive health rights (SRHR) remain out of reach. This is not just a health issue; it is also an issue of social and economic justice. When individuals are denied the ability to make choices about their health and lives, it limits their potential, reduces opportunities, and impacts society as a whole.”

On her part, the founder of wellbeing Foundation Africa, Toying Saraki, expressed commitment to a continuous programme of advocacy and policy on a global and subnational scale to accelerate progress towards the ICPD agenda and mobilise private, philanthropic and multi-sector stakeholders towards the goal.

November 28, 2024 0 comments

Headlines

Okpebholo reverses self, stops free bus service, gives reason

by Folarin Kehinde November 28, 2024

written by Folarin Kehinde

Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, on Wednesday night, reversed his approval of free bus services across the state announced earlier in the day.

Initially announced on Wednesday morning as part of the state’s welfare initiatives, the decision to suspend the service was communicated later the same day.

The initial directive, as outlined in a press statement by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, stated that the free bus service would cover intra-city routes within Benin metropolis and inter-city routes across the three senatorial districts.

It was intended to reflect Okpebholo’s commitment to enhancing the welfare of Edo residents.

However, a subsequent statement from Itua late Wednesday night called for the earlier announcement to be disregarded.

“The earlier statement announcing the approval of free bus services by the Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, should be disregarded,” he said.

The CPS explained that the governor was being briefed on operational issues within the Edo City Transport Service, which manages the free bus initiative.

However, a subsequent statement from Itua late Wednesday night called for the earlier announcement to be disregarded.

“The earlier statement announcing the approval of free bus services by the Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, should be disregarded,” he said.

The CPS explained that the governor was being briefed on operational issues within the Edo City Transport Service, which manages the free bus initiative.

“For now, the free bus services have been placed on hold. A new decision by the governor will be communicated to the general public,” he said.

The reversal has raised questions about the operational and logistical challenges facing the programme, leaving residents awaiting further clarification on the state’s transportation policies

Earlier in an interview with The PUNCH, the Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Edo State chapter, Bernard Joman, had commended the governor, saying the gesture would help cushion the effect of the harsh economy on Edo commuters.

“It is a welcome development for the Edo Chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress and to the people of the state. It will help to cushion the harsh economic conditions on the people and workers.

“The higher institution students have resumed and they will all be going to various destinations in the state and the free transportation will surely help them.

“I will urge the governor of the state, Senator Monday Okpehbolo, to ensure that the scheme is enduring so that the people and workers will benefit for a long time.”

November 28, 2024 0 comments

Headlines

Diverted Palliative Rice worth N1bn uncovered in Kano warehouse

by Folarin Kehinde November 27, 2024

written by Folarin Kehinde

The Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-corruption Agency said, on Tuesday, it uncovered a warehouse where diverted palliative rice worth N1bn was being kept.

The agency said the warehouse, located along Ring Road in the Nasarawa Local Government Area, was sealed during an operation led by its Chairman, Muhuyi Rimin-Gado.

According to the agency, bags of rice with the picture of President Bola Tinubu and the inscription ‘Ramadan Kareem’ were found in the warehouse.

Speaking to newsmen after the operation, Rimin-Gado said the facility was stockpiled with 28 trucks of the rice allegedly diverted by some individuals for re-bagging.

The chairman said the diversion of the commodity was an illegal and corrupt act which would not be condoned by the agency.

“In a nutshell, this is a clear form of corruption because this is a property meant for the public. Considering the hardship we have today, somebody has the temerity to come and start re-bagging it.

“We recovered a re-bagging machine for repacking and re-bagging rice meant for the public.

So, we are here based on investigative activities. We are armed with our search warrant, arrest warrant and court order,” Rimin-Gado said.

He said the agency would conduct a thorough investigation with a view to uncovering those behind the theft.

“For now, we have arrested one person and we will make sure we uncover those behind it and forestall these kinds of activities,” he said.

November 27, 2024 0 comments

Headlines

Edo gov approves free rides for residents

by Folarin Kehinde November 27, 2024

written by Folarin Kehinde

The Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has approved free bus services for the people of the state through the Edo City Transport Service.

In a press statement on Tuesday issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Fred Itua, the initiative is part of the Okpebholo administration’s drive to entrench his policy direction.

The free bus service, according to the statement, will cover Benin metropolis and the three Senatorial Districts of the state (Intra and Intercity routes) and is part of the governor’s commitment to enhance the welfare of all Edo people.

The statement added, “The bus services will ease the transportation stress. Our people who plan to move around within the Benin metropolis and out will be able to do that without any extra financial burdens.

“Edo Central, like Ekpoma, Iruekpen, Irrua, Uromi, and other places, are also part of the routes the free transportation services will cover.

“Edo North is fully captured. Agbede, Auchi, Okpella, Fugar, and other parts of Edo North are covered in the free transportation scheme of Governor Monday Okpebholo.”

November 27, 2024 0 comments

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