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Headlines

Texas Court Convicts Nigerian Pilot of Fraudulent Attempt to Obtain Medical Certificate

by Nelson Ugwuagbo August 29, 2024

written by Nelson Ugwuagbo

A Texas court has convicted Olukayode Ojo, a 36-year-old Nigerian Pilot, of providing false information to obtain a certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). As a result, he is now facing a five-year prison sentence.

Leading Reporters gathered that after his guilty verdict, US District Judge Jodi Dishman ordered the detention of the Nigerian pilot until his sentencing.

US Attorney Robert Troester released a statement on the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) website announcing the conviction of Olukayode Ojo. According to the statement, Ojo was found guilty on August 16, 2024, for making false statements in an attempt to obtain a medical certificate required to pilot a commercial passenger aircraft.

Troester noted that the case was part of an investigation by the Transportation Security Administration—Investigations and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jackson Eldridge and Matt Dillon.

He said, “On June 4, 2024, a federal jury returned a two-count superseding indictment against Ojo, charging him with two counts of making a false statement. On August 16, 2024, a federal jury found Ojo guilty on both counts.

“Evidence presented at trial indicated that Ojo, an FAA-certified commercial airline pilot, pleaded guilty to two misdemeanour theft charges on February 8, 2023, in Kentucky state court in connection with a theft of passenger luggage from the baggage carousels at the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport.

“Ojo then made false statements to the FAA in March 2023 and March 2024 while applying for an FAA First Class Medical Certificate to conceal his history of prior criminal convictions. A First Class Medical Certificate permits an airman to pilot commercial passenger aircraft.”

The convict faces a potential sentence of up to five years in federal prison, along with fines of up to $250,000 for each count.

August 29, 2024 0 comments

Headlines

NBA Swears in Afam Osigwe, SAN, As New President

by Nelson Ugwuagbo August 29, 2024

written by Nelson Ugwuagbo

Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, has been sworn in as the 32nd President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) in a ceremony held in Lagos, marking the beginning of his tenure.

Osigwe takes over from Mr. Yakubu Maikyau, SAN, whose term as President of the NBA has come to an end.

In his inaugural address, Osigwe outlined his vision for the NBA, emphasizing the importance of accountability and transparency in governance.

He stated that his administration will hold both federal and state governments accountable, ensuring that they uphold the rule of law and act with transparency.

Osigwe’s commitment to promoting good governance and upholding the principles of justice marks a new chapter for the NBA, as it continues to play a vital role in Nigeria’s legal and political landscape.

August 29, 2024 0 comments

Headlines

NYSC Rejects HND Graduates At Orientation Camps

by Folarin Kehinde August 29, 2024

written by Folarin Kehinde

Following the opening of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) orientation camp opened yesterday across the country, Polytechnic graduates with the Higher National Diploma (HND) without Industrial Training (IT) certification were sent back.

NYSC had introduced a new policy demanding IT certification for those seeking to fulfil their national service obligations and has halted the screening process for some HND graduates.

Leading Reporters had earlier reported how the NYSC had announced that HND graduates must provide evidence of completing their one-year mandatory IT certificate before being registered in their respective camps.

The policy mandates that graduates of polytechnics and monotechnics who had been mobilised for Batch B Stream II provide evidence of the mandatory one-year Industrial Training (IT) as a requirement for participating in the camp.

This medium gathered that the NYSC Orientation Camp in Kubwa, Abuja, on Tuesday at 11 a.m., observed that registration was going smoothly with corps members who had all the requirements.

However, a few corps members who were rejected due to the absence of an IT certificate lamented that they had already completed their degrees and were ready to serve the country, only to find themselves excluded due to certification.

They expressed hope for a resolution that allows them to fulfil their service obligations without being penalised for unforeseen gaps in documentation.

One of the corps members who spoke anonymously, because she did not want her name to appear in public, described the process as wrongly timed since their mates were already serving without passing through the hurdle.

“They are asking for the IT certificate; once you present it and other documents, they ask you to proceed with the registration. The requirement has led to frustration among some corps members. Most of the corps members without the IT certificate are frustrated, as you can see some of them there,” she said.

A nursing mother, Mrs. Hauwa Collins, who came to register early in the morning, told our correspondent that the process was transparent as long as you had all the necessary documents.

“I arrived at the camp before 10 a.m. When the screening started, I was asked to present my IT certificate, age declaration, and other documents. They did not waste time after verifying all the records. I have collected my kits now and I am about to finish the registration.

“But some of our colleagues are frustrated. I met one woman who came from Kaduna and is upset because she was screened out,” she added.

At the time of this report, corps members were still arriving at the camp, and the victims’ fate remains uncertain.

However, our reporter could not obtain further details due to tight security checks that prevented non-corps members from entering the camp.

August 29, 2024 0 comments

Headlines

JUST IN: 54-year-old Nigerian woman gives birth to 11 babies in Cotonou

by Folarin Kehinde August 29, 2024

written by Folarin Kehinde

A 54-year-old Nigerian woman, Alake Latoyosi has given birth to eleven babies in Cotonou, Benin Republic.

The extraordinary births occurred in two separate batches, with the first set of six arriving on August 7 and the second set of five born exactly one week later on August 14.

Her husband, 56-year-old Yahaya Nafiu, who is the Missioner of the Ilorin Descendants Progressive Union (IEDPU) in Port Novo, Ajasse, and Cotonou, is now seeking financial assistance to support his family.

In an emotional appeal, Nafiu called on compassionate individuals to help provide the necessary resources to care for his wife and their newborns.

“The financial cost of caring for them and their mother is overwhelming,” Nafiu told The Nation.

The delivery process was managed by a local birth attendant who assisted in the safe arrival of the babies on both occasions.

The babies consisted of eight males and three females, though sadly, two of the girls did not survive the delivery. The remaining nine children are reported to be in good health.

Reflecting on the unusual circumstances surrounding the births, Nafiu recounted how his wife experienced strange movements in her stomach a few days after the first delivery.

A subsequent scan at the hospital revealed that she was carrying more children, prompting a swift response that led to the birth of the second set of five babies.

Nafiu disclosed that his wife’s pregnancy lasted for over three years, a condition that puzzled the medical professionals involved.

Nafiu further disclosed he had many children before the arrival of the decuplets, while his wife also had children from her previous marriage.

August 29, 2024 0 comments

Headlines

Power Minister, Adelabu to Present National Electricity Policy to FEC

by Folarin Kehinde August 29, 2024

written by Folarin Kehinde

…….says policy implementation will enhance upgrade of nation grid

The minister of power, Adebayo Adelabu on Wednesday said he will present the “Zero Draft Integrated National Electricity Policy to the Federal Executive Council (FEC) for approval in the next six weeks adding that policy implementation will enhance national grid upgrade.

He spoke during the official presentation of the zero draft of the National Integrated Electricity Policy and Strategic Implementation Plan (NIEP-SIP) in Abuja.

He said: “This policy document as amended with comment and responses to be received from all stakeholders will be duly presented to the Federal Executive Council within the next six weeks for approval.”

He assured the stakeholders that the ministry is committed to transparency, accountability, and inclusivity at every stage of the process.

Adelabu said the success of the policy will require the continued collaboration of all stakeholders.

He urged everyone to remain engaged and supportive as the team works together to realize the objectives of policy.

The minister said the successful implementation of the policy will be better accompanied by continuous enhancement and upgrade of national grid infrastructure.

He added that the successful implementation will also result in the eventual complete migration to a full-cost -reflective tariff model.

His words: “I want to mention the fact that the successful implementation of this policy document will be better complemented by continuous enhancement and upgrade of our grid and off power infrastructure, and the eventual full migration of the market to a full cost-reflective tariff model, we have the consequent positive impact on the power sector.

“And this will mark a complete transformation of our overall livelihoods as Nigerians by boosting our standard of living, improving our industrialization process, mechanized agriculture, improve maternal healthcare.”

He described the NIEP-SIP as a comprehensive document outlining policy interventions across the entire electricity sector, from generation and transmission to distribution and off-grid segments.

He said the plan aims to transform Nigeria’s electricity sector into one that is resilient, efficient, and capable of supporting national development.

He highlighted that the NIEP-SIP emphasizes improving sector liquidity, fostering an investment-friendly environment, integrating renewable energy sources, enhancing grid reliability, ensuring equitable electricity access for all Nigerians—especially those in underserved communities—boosting local content and capacity throughout the value chain, and promoting gender mainstreaming in the sector.

Adelabu added: “As we move forward with the implementation of this policy, I want to assure you that we are committed to transparency, accountability, and inclusivity at every stage.

“The success of this policy will require the continued collaboration of all stakeholders, and I urge everyone to remain engaged and supportive as we work together to realize its objectives.

“In conclusion, let me express my sincere gratitude to the various stakeholders, industry experts, and development partners who have contributed to the development of this policy.

“Your commitment and hard work have laid a strong foundation for a brighter energy future for Nigeria. I am confident that, with your continued support, we will achieve our goal of transforming the Nigerian power sector into one that is not only self-sustaining but also a catalyst for economic growth and social development.”

August 29, 2024 0 comments

Headlines

NACAT Condemns Escalating Repression of Investigative Journalists in Nigeria

by Folarin Kehinde August 29, 2024

written by Folarin Kehinde

A non-governmental Organization, Network Against Corruption ans Trafficking (NACAT) has condemned the the alarming trend of arrests, detentions, and harassment of investigative journalists by the Nigerian government.

Operations, Manager of the organization, Stanley Ugagbe expressed his dissatisfaction in a press statement explained that this egregious assault on press freedom not only undermines the core principles of democracy but also violates the fundamental rights enshrined in both the Nigerian Constitution and international human rights instruments.
For the records, section 39 of the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria guarantees freedom of expression and the press adding that Section 22 places a responsibility on the press to hold the government and the
people accountable at all times.

The organization noted that Nigeria is a signatory to various international treaties and conventions that recognize the right of the press as fundamental to the existence of democracy.

They stressed that the actions of the current
administration under President Bola Tinubu, however, demonstrate a blatant disregard for these
commitments adding that In a horrendous show of power-drunk, since May of this year, at least five high-profile investigative journalists have been unlawfully arrested, detained, and subjected to intimidation and
threats by government agents.

“As an organization that promotes human rights, we are deeply concerned that a Nation like Nigeria
that is practicing democracy, is clamping down on the rights of Journalists, deploying government
arsenal to suppress their voices and subjecting them to unhuman treatments.

“Disturbing records in the public domain have it that:
Daniel Ojukwu, a reporter with the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ), went missing on
May 1 and was later found to be detained on allegations of violating the Cybercrimes Act. His “crime”was uncovering the truth about a fraudulent government transaction.
Isaac Bristol (PIDOM), a microblogger known for his investigative work, was abducted from his hotel
room in Port Harcourt by 15 plainclothes policemen on August 5 and subjected to inhuman treatment.

“Isaac told representatives of this team that the police abducted and kept him in solitary confinement
for at least six days in an anti-kidnapping unit before transferring him to a different facility. He later
ended up in the FCID’s custody. Presently, the police are demanding two Level 16 civil servants who
own landed property worth at least N500 million in Abuja as sureties for Bristol’s bail. Asking for a
civil servant to he worth N500 million is an invitation to corruption by the Nigerian Police as it will
take over 100 years for a civil servant to make such money and will only have to be corrupt to make
such amount of money. Is the police asking civil servants to start stealing public funds before they can
stand as sureties?

“Fisayo Soyombo, the founder and Editor-in-Chief of FIJ, was detained for eight hours by the Nigeria
Police Force National Cybercrime Centre in Abuja on August 14. He has since been required to report
bi-weekly, a clear attempt to intimidate him and curtail his journalistic activities.

“Abdulrasheed Hammad, a freelance journalist, was threatened by the Department of State Services
(DSS) after publishing an investigative story on contaminated water in Sokoto State. Adejuwon Soyinka, West Africa editor for The Conversation Africa, was detained by the DSS for six
hours on August 27, following his return from the UK.

“His detention was based on the spurious claim
of irregularities with his passport, a clear tactic to intimidate him for his investigative work.

“These actions are a direct attack on the freedom of the press and a dangerous step toward
authoritarianism. The press plays a crucial role in uncovering the truth and holding power to account.
Investigative journalists, in particular, are the watchdogs of society, shining a light on corruption,
injustice, and abuse of power.”

They maintained that it is even bemusing that agents of the Nigerian Government can easily track and arrest investigative journalists, clampdown on those who air their grievances over the failed policies of the government that have subjected the people to untold hardship but cannot track and arrest terrorists and kidnappers who have turned the nation into a crime zone, making Nigerians to live in perpetual fear adding that it only takes the grace of God to go to the farm and return alive and even takes a higher grace to travel
on Nigerian roads and get to your destination without being kidnapped.

They however demands immediate justice and accountability for these journalists especially for Isaac who is still being held in detention.

“The Nigerian government must put an end to these egregious attacks on press freedom and ensure that those responsible for these violations are held accountable. We are troubled that if these actions continue, Nigeria risks degenerating into a lawless society where journalists are silenced or simply disappear for doing their job. This is not the Nigeria we want or deserve.

“We are startled that President Bola Tinubu who has had a taste of a repressive government and was
forced into exile by the late General Sani Abacha’s military junta, has now turned around to become
an oppressor of the Nigerian people.

“We urged the President to rescind on this trajectory and keep to his words to promote the rule of law, adhere to the principles of separation of powers, and tolerate dissenting views within the ambit of the laws of Nigeria.

“We call on all Nigerians and the international community to stand with us in defending press freedom.

“We seek an open society where citizens can express themselves freely, have access to unclassified
information, and where the government is fully accountable to the people.

“These are the minimum requirements of the new society we seek, and we will not rest until they are achieved.”. They added.

August 29, 2024 0 comments

Headlines

BREAKING: NCC Announces Deadline for NIN-SIM linkage Compliance

by Folarin Kehinde August 28, 2024

written by Folarin Kehinde

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) is pleased to announce significant progress in the Federal Government’s 2020 policy to link all Subscriber Identification Modules (SIMs) to National Identity Numbers (NINs).

To date, over 153 million SIMs have been successfully linked to a NIN, reflecting an impressive compliance rate of 96 per cent, a substantial increase from 69.7 per cent in January 2024.

As we approach the final phase of this critical process, the NCC seeks the continued cooperation of all Nigerians to achieve 100 per cent compliance. The complete linkage of all SIM cards to NINs is essential for enhancing the trust and security of our digital economy.

By verifying all mobile users, this policy strengthens confidence in digital transactions, reduces the risk of fraud and cybercrime, and supports greater participation in e-commerce, digital banking, and mobile money services. This, in turn, promotes financial inclusion and drives economic growth.

Through collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), the NCC has uncovered alarming cases where individuals possessed an unusually high number of SIM cards—some exceeding 100,000.

The Commission also remains committed to working with security agencies and other stakeholders to crack down on the sale of pre-registered SIMs, thereby safeguarding national security and ensuring the integrity of mobile numbers in Nigeria.

To ensure full compliance with the NIN-SIM linkage policy, the NCC has directed all Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) to complete the mandatory verification and linkage of SIMs to NINs by September 14, 2024.

Effective September 15, 2024, the Commission expects that no SIM operating in Nigeria will be without a valid NIN.

We urge all members of the public who have not yet completed their NIN-SIM linkage, or who have faced issues due to verification mismatches, to visit their service providers promptly to update their details before the deadline. Alternatively, the approved self-service portals are available for this purpose.

The NCC also reminds the public that the sale and purchase of pre-registered SIMs are criminal offences punishable by imprisonment and fines. We encourage citizensto report any such activities to the Commission via our toll-free line (622) or through our social media platforms.

The Commission thanks the general public for its continued cooperation as we work together to strengthen Nigeria’s digital ecosystem.

August 28, 2024 0 comments

Headlines

“Pray For Me” – TG OMORI Request After Failed Kidney Transplant

by Nelson Ugwuagbo August 28, 2024

written by Nelson Ugwuagbo

Popular music director and cinematographer, ThankGod Omori Smith, better known as TG Omori, has shared a personal health update, revealing a failed kidney transplant.

In an earlier post on X, the 29-year-old shared that his only brother had volunteered one of his kidneys for the transplant, writing, “Yesterday my only brother gave me one of his kidneys so I could live again.”

TG Omori also shared pictures of himself on a hospital bed receiving oxygen on his Instagram story, captioning them, “keep my spirit alive. I don’t wanna die.”

However, in a recent update, TG Omori revealed that the transplant was unsuccessful, sharing the news on X and urging the public to pray for him during this challenging time.

He wrote, “One year after my kidney crashed I just had a failed transplant at St. Nicolas Lagos. Pray for me,”

His fans on social media have been replying with kind words and prayers for his health

August 28, 2024 0 comments

Headlines

APC Candidate Yahuza Umar Labbo Dies Ahead of Jigawa Local Govt Election

by Nelson Ugwuagbo August 28, 2024

written by Nelson Ugwuagbo

The All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for Kirikasamma local government in Jigawa State, Yahuza Umar Labbo, has passed away.

His death was confirmed by the state party chairman, Aminu Gumel, who announced that Yahuza Umar Labbo died at the age of 55 after a brief illness.

He is survived by three wives and fifteen children, who will deeply feel his loss.

Governor Umar Namadi offered his condolences to the family and the entire Muslim Ummah, praying for the Almighty Allah to grant Yahuza Umar Labbo eternal rest.

The Governor also prayed for fortitude for the family to bear the loss, acknowledging the significant impact of Yahuza Umar Labbo’s passing.

The Jigawa State Local Government election, in which Yahuza Umar Labbo was a candidate, is scheduled to take place on October 5, 2024.

August 28, 2024 0 comments

Headlines

Nigerian Pensioners Petition Tinubu Over Pencoms Failure to Pay Retirees

by Nelson Ugwuagbo August 28, 2024

written by Nelson Ugwuagbo

The Correctional Officers Pencom Retirees Association of Nigeria (COPRAN) has submitted a petition to President Bola Tinubu, Senate President, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Minister of Labour, and Human Rights Commission, among others, regarding the challenges faced by retirees under the contributory Pension Commission (PenCom) scheme.

According to COPRAN, retirees are being deprived of their funds by PenCom after retirement, leading to untold hardship and inability to provide for their basic needs.

The association’s president, Mr. Anthony Ayiwulu, expressed frustration that after 35 years of dedicated service, retirees are only owed gratuities and are unable to cater to their families’ needs.

Ayiwulu cited the example of the Nigerian Army, which opted out of the PenCom scheme, and emphasized the need for a policy change or review to benefit retirees.

He highlighted the challenges retirees face in the current economic situation, including high living costs and healthcare expenses, and urged the government to prioritize fairness in its dealings with citizens.

Ayiwulu specifically called for prompt payment of civil and public servants’ retirement benefits to help them cope with retirement.

COPRAN also lamented that senior citizens under PenCom have yet to receive any palliative to mitigate the hard economic situation in the country, despite submitting their information through their Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs).

The petition serves as a reminder of the plight of retirees in Nigeria, who often struggle with limited resources, and urges the government to take immediate action to address their concerns.

August 28, 2024 0 comments

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