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Tinubu, Gowon, others attend ECOWAS @50

President Bola Tinubu, and a former Nigerian leader, General Yakubu Gowon, joined other West African presidents yesterday to mark the 50th anniversary of ECOWAS, the Economic Community of West African States.

The event took place at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, where the original ECOWAS treaty was signed in 1975.

General Gowon, the last living leader among the original signers, was honoured for his important role in bringing the region together.

Presidents from Liberia, Togo, and Guinea-Bissau also attended and promised to keep working towards ECOWAS’s goals.

Some countries like Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso were not present due to political issues.

The celebration continues at Eko Hotel and Suites.

 

Enugu state govt orders demolition of building used for kidnapping, organ harvesting, ritual murder

  • 13-year-old girl rescued
  • Prime suspect flees, accomplice arrested by police

By Chris Anucha

Enugu state governor, Peter Mbah, has ordered the demolition of building belonging to a fleeing native doctor, used for kidnappings, organ harvesting and ritual-related killings. The native doctor’s name was given as “Ezeani”.

However, his accomplice was not that lucky, as he is presently cooling his heels in the net of the Nigeria Police, helping them in their investigation.

During the operation which lasted for several hours, detectives were said to have discovered bodies, including that of a pregnant woman, buried in his compound, while a 13-year-old girl was rescued from the native doctor’s compound.

A Press statement released yesterday, May 28, 2025 and signed by Enugu State Police Command Spokesman, Daniel Ndukwe, a Superintendent of Police (SP) said efforts are in top gear to arrest the prime suspect. The statement said:

“Police operatives of the Enugu State Command, attached to the Umumba Division, in the early hours of May 27, 2025, at about 3:15 a.m., in collaboration with Neighbourhood Watch personnel and vigilant community members, successfully rescued a 13-year-old girl (name withheld), allegedly kidnapped for ritual murder, at Umuojor village in Ishiagu community of Ezeagu Local Government Area.

“The operation also led to the arrest of three male suspects connected to the crime, namely: Uche Kingsley Agumba, aged 33; Ilo Nweze Onyedikachi, aged 36; and Ejike Odinwankpa, aged 38.

“The prime suspect, identified as High Chief Levi Onyeka Obu nicknamed “Ezeani” and “E-Dey-Play-E-Dey-Show,” a native doctor and prominent member of the community, fled the scene and is currently at large.

“During the rescue, two decomposing bodies, one male and one female, were discovered buried in a concrete-sealed pit within an uncompleted building, owned and used as a shrine, and heinous criminal activities by the fleeing prime suspect.

“Investigations reveal that the deceased victims were recently murdered and buried in the pit by the suspects for ritual purposes, and the rescued child was moments away from suffering the same fate before the timely intervention.

“In line with its laws, the Enugu State Government has demolished the buildings owned by the fleeing prime suspect and used for the criminal enterprise.

“The Commissioner of Police, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa, psc, who promptly visited the crime scene, has commended the efforts of the police operatives, local security groups, and community members, whose collaboration ensured the success of the operation.

“He has also directed the Command’s Tactical Squads, as well as Investigation and Intelligence Units, to intensify efforts in tracking down the fleeing suspect and other accomplices still at large, with a firm resolve to ensure justice is served.”

FCT pupils beg teachers to call off two-month old strike

By Sunday ABAH, Abuja

School children in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, have appealed to striking teachers in the six-area Council to consider their plight and call off their two-month industrial action.

In separate interviews with newsmen on Tuesday in the the Bwari Area Council of the FCT, the children made the appeal, while sharing their thoughts on the 2025 Children’s Day.

Recall that the Nigeria Union of Teachers and Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees in FCT had in March embarked strike due to non-payment of the N70,000 minimum wage.

Blessing Adamu, a 10-year-old primary four child at LEA 2, Primary School, Bwari, said that staying at home for more than two months without learning was a big disruption to their academic programmes.

She appealed to the FCT administration and the teachers to resolve their differences and call off the strike.

“I am not happy that I have been at home for this long.

“My friends in the private schools are going to school, and I am staying at home to help my mummy with her business and chores,” she said.

Another pupil, Jonah Mathias, said that he was now bored due to the duration of the strike, saying, “I am missing both physical and intellectual exercises in school.”

35km Owerri-Elele dual carriageway to be ready next year, says Imo Govt

Imo state government has assured that the reconstruction of the 35km Owerri- Elele Highway will be completed within the next 15 months.

The Commissioner for Information, Public Orientation and Strategy, Hon Declan Emelumba disclosed this to newsmen in Owerri.

He said although the said highway is a Federal Road, Governor Hope Uzodimma approved its reconstruction to ease movement for all Nigerians who ply through that axis on their way to and fro Rivers State.

Emelumba further disclosed that the governor has also approved the dualization of the road, while Craneburg construction limited has already commenced work on it.

“As I speak with you , work has started.  The contractor has assured us that the road will be delivered in the next 15 months.  This will be like the Owerri-Orlu dual carriageway delivered by the same contractor ,” the Commissioner assured.

He said the reconstruction of the road was part of the broader road revolution  strategy embarked upon by the governor which has resulted in the construction and reconstruction of more than 120 roads since the inception of the administration five years ago.

According to Emelumba,  road infrastructure continues to be a priority to Uzodimma because of its critical role in the economic growth of the state.

Meanwhile,  the Commissioner had announced that Uzodimma has approved the immediate reconstruction of the 7.4km Assumpta- Umuguma Road as well the Hospital Road and Chosen-Dreamland Road totalling 6km.

Similarly, the governor has directed the contractor handling the construction and rehabilitation of Naze- Nekede-Ihiagwa road with span bridge to resume construction work immediately.

Children’s Day: No child will be left behind in Oru West – Chairman

By Jennifer John

The Executive Chairman of Oru West Local Government Area of Imo State, Engr. Ikenna Adikibe has given an assurance that no child of the LGA will be left behind in his administration’s commitment to invest in their future.

Engr. Adikibe made this promise in his address during the International Children’s Day Celebration, with the theme: Stand Up, Speak Up; Building a Bullying Free Generation, at the LGA headquarters, Mgbidi, yesterday, May 27.

He asserted that his administration believes that investing in the lives and education of the children is investigating in the future of the LGA, saying that he is committed to ensuring that schools in the LGA are equipped and teachers supported to perform at their optimum level.

The LGA Chairman disclosed that efforts were already on to improve infrastructure in the Primary and Secondary Schools, support the pupils and students with learning materials, as well as strengthening children healthcare across communities in the LGA.

Adikibe further gave an assurance that he will continue to strive to build a peaceful, safe and prosperous LGA where every child can thrive.

He dished out words of appreciation and encouragement to parents, teachers and the children thus: “To our parents; thank you for your sacrifices and dedication. Raising a child is no a small task, but your effort will never be in vain

“To our teachers; you are nation builders. Thank you for shaping minds and building with love and discipline.

“And to our dear children; remember this; you are never too young to dream and never too small to make a difference. Work hard, stay curious, be kind and always believe in yourselves”.

The Executive Chairman also read the  speech of President Bola Tinubu, where the President reeled out the programmes, policies and actions of his administration geared towards the betterment of the Nigerian children, as well as securing and safeguarding their future.

Imo Deputy Chief of Staff bags Distinguished Excellence award in Emergency Response Health Care award

By Jennifer John

The Deputy Chief of Staff General Services, Imo State Government House, Chief Ferdinand Uzodimma has bagged the award of Distinguished Excellence in Emergency Response Health Care

The award was bestowed on him by Tochile impowerment and Support Foundation, David’s Medical Consultancy Services and Bypass Pre Hospital International, in partnership with the Primary Health Care Development Agency, American Heart Association and the Federal Ministry of Health.

Presenting the award, Mr Ike Okey Humphrey appreciated Governor Hope Uzodimma for the enabling environment given to them, to go into the rural communities to advocate for the basic things they need, such as quality education and free health care services.

He lauded the Governor for the health insurance policy of his administration which promises enormous impact on the health of Imo people.

He disclosed that the Deputy Chief of Staff General Services has also tremendously supported them, reason they honoured him with the award.

“This award primarily highlights the deep importance of quick emergency response in cases of crisis, disaster. This award is not new, it has been existing since 1956, under the Pre Hospital Emergency Care Council, (PHECC), and the United Nations Action Committee on Drugs and Emergency prevention (UNODC)”.

Responding the deputy chief of staff lauded the group for carrying out their assignment diligently without any bad report against them from any quarter.

He also used the opportunity to highlight the return of peace and security to the state, which according to him,  made it possible for the group to carry out their assignment, without any violence, threat or harassment.

“When you go back to America, tell Nigerians there that Imo is a peaceful and habitable state” the deputy chief of staff enthused.

Some members of the delegation. Mrs Mariagoretti A Nwosu, Coordinator United States of America, Okpara Mabel Owerri coordinator

Children’s Day: Peter Obi urges better care for Nigerian children

On the occasion of Children’s Day, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party(LP), in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, has called on Nigerians, especially leaders, to prioritise the welfare and future of the country’s children, whom he described as “the heartbeat of our nation and the bearer of our collective hopes and dreams.”

In a statement released yesterday, Obi emphasised the need for urgent attention to the challenges faced by Nigerian children.

“Days like this offer us the opportunity to appreciate the immense potential of our children, who represent the hope of a brighter tomorrow in our nation if only we care for them today,” he said.

According to Obi, Nigerian children deserve “a nation that prioritises their well-being, education, safety, and future.”

Highlighting the demographic significance of children in Nigeria, Obi cited a 2023 UNICEF report estimating that over 110 million people under the age of 18 live in the country, representing a large proportion of Nigeria’s population.

“Such high numbers of young people in Nigeria should challenge us, as leaders, to commit wholeheartedly to investing in the future of the children. Their future is the future of the nation,” he stated.

Despite their potential, Obi pointed out that many Nigerian children face harsh realities from birth.

“Nigeria today is among the nations with the highest infant mortality rates in the world,” he said.

He also referenced a 2024 UNICEF report revealing that around 11 million Nigerian children suffer from severe food poverty, with one in four children under five stunted due to malnutrition, especially in rural and remote areas.

The former vice presidential candidate also drew attention to the education crisis in the country, where over 18 million children are currently out of school   “among the highest in the world.”

Obi described this as “a deep national wound,” stressing that “each out-of-school child represents a dream deferred, a future endangered, and a country that is failing to uphold its most sacred responsibility.”

He lamented that while many children learn on the streets, schools remain underfunded, unsafe, or inaccessible.

Obi further criticised the state of healthcare for children, stating that “primary healthcare that should cater to the basic healthcare needs of our children is practically non-existent.”

Obi also raised concerns about insecurity affecting children.

“Violence, kidnapping, and abuse have forced thousands of children to flee their homes, live in fear, or grow up in regions where dreams are stifled by conflict,” he said.

Quoting a 2022 report from the National Bureau of Statistics, Obi said 46.5% of children aged 5-14 were engaged in child labour, describing this as “heartbreaking to see the future of our children jeopardised when they should be nurtured.”

Despite the many challenges, Obi acknowledged the resilience and talent of Nigerian children, urging Nigerians to support and encourage them.

“Their dreams are valid and we must invest in their future, our future!” he declared.

Obi reaffirmed his commitment and promised to work toward a Nigeria “where every Nigerian child can feel secure, grow in peace, enjoy good access to education and health and have the enabling environment to pursue their dreams and contribute productively to societal development.”

He emphasised the importance of building “a nation where no child is left behind and where the child of a nobody can become somebody through hard work and productivity.”

“We will continue to fight for a Nigeria where you can dream freely, learn safely, and rise boldly. That is the country we must build, and we owe you nothing less,” Obi added.

‘Now we know Wike has boss’, Dele Momodu hails Tinubu for stopping Abuja property sealing

Peoples Democratic Party(PDP), chieftain, Dele Momodu, has applauded President Bola Tinubu for halting the sealing of properties in Abuja over unpaid ground rent, a move he described as proof that Tinubu is firmly in control of his administration.

The Federal Capital Territory Authority, under the supervision of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, had on Monday, May 26, sealed several business premises in Abuja, including banks, filling stations, the Federal Inland Revenue Service office, and notably, the national secretariat of the PDP.

The action was reportedly due to unpaid ground rents amounting to billions of Naira.

However, following widespread public backlash and criticism from affected property owners, President Tinubu ordered a temporary suspension of the enforcement.

He also gave all defaulters a 14-day grace period to settle their debts.

Reacting via Instagram, Momodu praised Tinubu for stepping in and described the decision as a significant check on what he called Wike’s excesses.

‘’THANK YOU, PRESIDENT TINUBU, Your Excellency, good evening, sir.

I have just read the news here in America that you have stepped into the matter of your cantankerous Minister of FCT, MR NYESOM WIKE who sealed the National Secretariat of the PDP, the biggest rival of your ruling party, APC, and properties of other defaulters in Abuja earlier today.

“While no one should condone non-compliance of government obligations, government must always restrain itself from vindictive outbursts such as that of Nigeria’s most querulous politician who I’m sure is fast becoming a liability to your government.

The decision to stop Wike today achieved several points in your favour.

Momodu criticised Wike’s approach as vindictive and disruptive, accusing the FCT Minister of wielding power as though he were not answerable to anyone.

The PDP stalwart also used the opportunity to call on President Tinubu to rein in Wike’s political activities in Rivers State, where Wike has been locked in a prolonged power struggle with Governor Sim Fubara.

He added, “We used to think we have two presidents in Nigeria, TINUBU and WIKE. Now, we know WIKE has a boss who can checkmate his excesses.

How I wished you had stopped his reckless disruption and distraction of the SIM FUBARA government in Rivers State and saved the hapless people from this unfortunate contraption called emergency rule.

“Nigerians are currently going through so much hardship and pain, and you need to rescue them from WIKE’s additional burden and insults. WIKE’s assignments are far smaller than that of Minister DAVE UMAHI, yet the man is so humble while WIKE subjects Nigerians to his tautological press conferences as if he’s running his own Federal government and not under anyone’s control.

“Sir, there can’t be two captains in one ship, and I hope WIKE got that message loud and clear from your powerful intervention today.”

Nigeria will have Emperor as President if PDP crumbles – Sule Lamido

Former Governor of Jigawa State, Sule Lamido, says Nigeria would have an emperor as President if the Peoples Democratic Party, (PDP), collapses.

Lamido, a founding member of the PDP, said this yesterday.

He maintained that the PDP is an integral part of Nigeria’s democratic history, adding that the continued existence of the party is tied to the country’s survival.

“If the PDP collapses, Nigeria will collapse. Where there is no opposition, then there will be an emperor. When the party collapses, then you have an emperor all over Nigeria, and all emperors are destroyed by their greed.

“The PDP is Nigeria’s history in the last 25 years, therefore, look at the bigger picture. If the party collapses, it is Nigeria’s history which collapses,” he said.

According to the ex-foreign affairs minister, if the PDP hadn’t restored Nigeria’s democracy in 1999, there was no way ex-military head of state Muhammadu Buhari of the All Progressives Congress, (APC), would have taken over power as President in May 2015.

He stated further that without the PDP laying the foundation for Nigeria’s democracy in the Fourth Republic, incumbent ex-Lagos governor Bola Tinubu wouldn’t have taken over from his party man, Buhari, in May 2023.

Lamido reiterated that Tinubu needs the PDP as a focal opposition party to keep him in check.

“More than anybody, Tinubu needs PDP to be chasing him, to be on his toes, but when it collapses, nobody will be chasing him; he will be chasing himself,” he added.

Tinubu seeks NASS approval to borrow fresh $21.5m, other external borrowing plans

TINUBU

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has requested the National Assembly’s approval to secure external loans of $21.5 million and ¥15 billion as part of the federal government’s proposed 2025–2026 external borrowing plan.

Also, the request consists of a grant of €65 million to be included in the federal government’s external borrowing plan.

The president’s request was contained in a letter read by the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, during the plenary yesterday.

In the letter, Mr Tinubu said that the funds will be used to create employment, promote skill acquisition, enhance entrepreneurship, reduce poverty, and boost food security.

He emphasised that the proposed projects and programmes are designed to have a nationwide impact, spanning all 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

This fresh loan comes as Nigeria’s total public debt stood at N144.7 trillion (approximately $94.2 billion), according to Debt Management Office December 2024 data. A breakdown of the existing public debt showed that about 51.4 percent of the total (N74.4 trillion) is domestic debt, while 48.6 percent (N70.3 trillion) is external debt

IPOB legal team challenges legality of Nnamdi Kanu’s trial, cites jurisdictional, legal violations

The legal team representing Mazi Nnamdi Kanu has raised fresh objections to the ongoing trial of the Indigenous People of Biafra, (IPOB), leader, insisting that the proceedings lack legal merit and contravene both Nigerian and international laws.

In a statement signed by Onyekachi Ifedi, Esq., on behalf of IPOB’s Directorate of Legal Affairs and Global Public Communication, the group argued that the current trial, being held before Justice Omotosho at the Federal High Court in Abuja, is fatally flawed by procedural and jurisdictional infractions that, in their view, render it unconstitutional.

According to the statement, Section 76(1)(d)(iii) of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022 stipulates that a person may not be tried for a terrorism-related offense unless such an offense has been evaluated and recognized in the country from which the individual was extradited.

The IPOB legal team asserts that no such legal process occurred in Kenya prior to Kanu’s transfer to Nigeria, thereby questioning the jurisdiction of any Nigerian court to hear the case.

The team also invoked the Principle of Specialty, a doctrine in international law which limits prosecution to charges explicitly stated in a lawful extradition request.

They maintained that Kanu was not formally extradited from Kenya, and alleged that his transfer to Nigeria did not follow due process under international legal frameworks.

Additionally, the IPOB counsel cited Section 45 of the Federal High Court Act, which states that terrorism-related cases should be tried in the jurisdiction where the alleged offense occurred or where its consequences were felt.

The group contended that the acts attributed to Kanu took place outside Nigeria, notably in the United Kingdom and Kenya, challenging the choice of Abuja as the venue for the trial.

While reiterating their respect for the judiciary, the statement emphasized that Kanu’s presence in court should not be construed as acceptance of the court’s jurisdiction or legitimacy of the charges.

The group called on the Nigerian government to end what they described as a legally unsustainable process.

The statement concluded with a call for the federal government to reconsider its position and halt the trial, warning that the case could have broader consequences in the arena of international law and public opinion.

Mazi Nnamdi Kanu is currently facing charges related to terrorism, incitement, and other allegations brought by the federal government.

His arrest and trial have drawn significant local and international attention, particularly regarding the legal circumstances surrounding his return to Nigeria.

Release Nnamdi Kanu, others – MASSOB tells Tinubu

The leadership of the Movement for the Actualization of the Sovereign State of Biafra, MASSOB, led by Uchenna Madu has urged President Bola Tinubu-led Nigerian government to release the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu and other pro Biafra agitators detained across the country.

This was contained in a statement issued yesterday by its National Director of Information, Edeson Samuel.

MASSOB also noted that South-east was excluded from the Nigeria Student Loan, accusing the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, JAMB, of consciously and systematically frustrating the high average examination score of South-eastern region students.

According to MASSOB, no working seaport in the South-east zone and no South-east person among the senior officials of Nigeria National Petroleum Company, Federal Inland Revenue  Service and Nigeria Customs Service.

Currently, the federal government of Nigeria had closed down the Enugu international airport in South-east zone including the railway transportation service in the South-east zone.

This is coming ahead of the 2025 Biafra Anniversary celebration on May 30.

May 30th, 2025 is a national day of introspection and self examination for the people of Biafra after 58 years of our forceful and deceitful actions of General Gowon popularly known as reintegration, reconciliation and rehabilitation back to Nigeria.

Earlier this month, MASSOB said all markets, schools, public and private motor parks in the South-east will be shut down on May 30, 2025.

Gunmen abduct FRSC officer in Jos

A female staff of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Kate Jonathan Akpabio, has been abducted by gunmen in Jos South Local Government Area of Plateau State.

According to a post by security analyst Zagazola Makama yesterday through his X handle, the incident occurred on Monday, at about 5:30 a.m. when armed hoodlums attacked her residence in the Rantya community and whisked her away to an unknown destination.

Sources told Zagazola that security forces, including army troops and other agencies, were mobilised to the scene following a distress call.

However, the kidnappers had already fled with the victim before their arrival.

It was gathered that a search-and-rescue operation has been launched by the military and police operatives.

 

Embrace 3R Mantra as integral part of Children Day celebration

…Owerri Municipal Council boss, Emeribe, urges teachers

By Sampson Uhuegbu

 Teachers and other stakeholders in the education sector of the State have been encouraged to embrace the Rehabilitation, Reconstruction and Recovery (3R) mantra as integral part of the Children’s day celebration.

The Executive Chairman of Owerri Municipal Council, Hon. Chidiebere Emereibe gave this charge in his address during the year 2025 Children’s day celebration held at the Municipal Council Complex, yesterday, May 27.

Emeribe noted, that this year’s celebration, with the theme, “Look Up”, is a call to action to above limitations, distractions and challenges.

“Do not allow the pressures of your environment, temptations of drugs, crime and bad company to pull you down”, he charged.

The Council Chairman, who appreciated parents and guardians, also lauded their unwavering efforts in nurturing the younger ones, reminding them that their guidance is the foundation on which they stand.

He reassured them that the Imo State government, under Governor Hope Uzodimma is working tirelessly to provide a conducive environment for learning and growth. “From improved infrastructure to accessible healthcare services, we are building a future that gives every child a fair chance to succeed”.

Emeribe used the opportunity to announce for commencement of the Imo State Health Insurance Scheme across all the wards in Owerri Municipal, emphasizing that the initiative aims to deliver affordable, accessible, and quality healthcare to citizen especially children including families at the grassroots.

In his speech, the Supervisory Councillor for Education, Social Welfare and Information, Hon. Yahaya Bolaji, advised children to keep looking up, saying the sky is not only their limit, but the beginning.

“Remain focused, disciplined, believe in yourselves, be committed and dedicated to your studies and obey your teachers. Also, respect your parents and guidance, Bolaji admonished.

The ceremony which was well attended by traditional rulers, clergymen, political appointees and others also featured match past performed by various schools in the municipality and suburbs, songs, and presentation of awards and gifts to schools

Imo Girls’ Secondary School took first position in the secondary category, Ikenegbu Girls’ Sec School came 2nd, while Boys’ Modern School, Owerri emerged 3rd.

Development Primary School floored their counterparts with 1st position, followed by Urban Primary school, Owerri with 2nd whereas Ikenegbu Primary School came 3rd.

Eight abducted WASSCE students, 11 others freed in Rivers

Nineteen people, including eight students sitting for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), have been rescued after being kidnapped by suspected pirates.

The victims were held for 21 days in the Bille waterways area in the Degema Local Government Area of Rivers State.

They were freed on Monday evening by a local security group known as the Royal Fouchee Security Services, also called the Amama Soldiers.

The group is led by Asari-Dokubo, a former militant leader and now the traditional ruler of the Torusaramapiri community in Degema.

The victims were kidnapped on May 6, when pirates attacked two boats heading to Bille.

Everyone in the boats was taken, including the students. After the attack, there were many calls for their release.

The kidnappers later contacted families and demanded N100 million in ransom.

Speaking about the rescue, Asari-Dokubo said he and his team began the operation on Sunday after being asked to help by the Department of State Services. He also said that one of the victims had earlier paid N10 million to the kidnappers but later helped them locate the hideout.

“These people were kept in terrible conditions for 21 days. They were starved and badly treated. One of them, who was released after paying N10 million, helped us find the kidnappers’ camp,” he said.

Asari-Dokubo also raised concerns about a missing soldier, Lance Corporal Salihu Ibrahim, who was in one of the boats. Only his uniform and ID card were found, and he fears the soldier may have been killed.

One of the suspects arrested, named Victor Friday, claimed he didn’t take part in the kidnapping. He said he only stayed in the camp and was used to running errands.

He named a man called Kentebe from Bayelsa State as the leader of the gang, who is now on the run.

A rescued victim, Victor Akinloye, who was also a boat driver, said they were beaten, stripped naked, and their phones and ATM cards were taken.

The kidnappers also withdrew money from their accounts.

Akinloye said he recognised the area where they were held. A few days later, he helped lead the rescue team to the location.

When contacted, the spokesperson for the Rivers State Police Command, Grace Iringe-Koko, confirmed the rescue.

“Yes, I can confirm they were rescued on Monday evening through a joint effort by the police and the local security group,” Iringe-Koko said.

Fallen power cable electrocutes three-year-old in Anambra

Grief struck at Isaiah Morah Close, Awka, the Anambra State capital, when a fallen high tension cable belonging to the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company, (EEDC) electrocuted a three-year-old girl in the area.

The girl was said to have stepped on the cable, not knowing there was current in it.

It was gathered that the high-tension cable had fallen the previous day and all efforts to get it removed failed.

Some residents in the area who spoke to journalists on Monday, said the officials of the power company who were contacted demanded the sum of N30,000 to fix the cable and after the money was paid to them, they still did not come.

A resident identified simply as Uche said, “The electric cable fell on Friday and it was only fixed on Sunday, May 24, 2025, after it had electrocuted the girl.

“The incident was posted on our WhatsApp group and a team was dispatched by the power company to immediately respond, but they could not locate the place. After allegedly trying their best, they went back to the office.

“The three-year-old girl who was electrocuted lived with her mother and other people in a house under construction and partly abandoned in the street.

“They usually go out to fetch water from other compounds. But unfortunately, on that fateful day, as she was coming home, she stepped on the fallen cable not knowing that the cable had power.

“The innocent girl went near and was electrocuted. When other children saw what happened, they shouted and the adults who ran out carefully pulled her off, rushing her to Awka Medical Centre at Udoka gate, but she did not make it.”

When contacted on Monday, the spokesman for the Anambra State Police Command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, could not confirm the incident.

Ikenga said there was no report of such before the command.

Also, the Communication Manager for the EEDC, Emeka Ezeh, when contacted, simply said, “I don’t have such information before me. Please, I have to enquire and get back to you

 Many feared trapped as uncompleted building collapses in Lagos

Panic erupted in the Ota-Ona area of Ikorodu, Lagos State, after an uncompleted two-storey building collapsed on Monday afternoon, leaving many feared trapped beneath the rubble.

According to Facebook user, Rasheed Fatuga, who raised the alarm, the uncompleted storey building located directly opposite the Mobil Filling Station(formerly Bugon Filling Station) in the Ota-Ona area, caved in this afternoon, leaving an unspecified number of people trapped.

As the time of this report, five victims have been rescued alive, but the exact number of people still trapped remains unknown.

Rescue operations are currently ongoing, with emergency teams working tirelessly to search through the debris.

The cause of the collapse has not been officially determined.

Suspected herders kill pastor, seven others, in fresh Plateau attacks

At least eight people have lost their lives in fresh attacks on communities in Bokkos Local Government Area of Plateau State.

It was gathered that the victims included a pastor and seven natives who were reportedly killed by suspected herders’ militia.

The Chairman of Community Peace Observers in Bokkos, Kefas Mallai, who exclusively confirmed the killings yesterday, said the attacks began on Sunday, May 25, 2025, at around 10 pm, when Pastor Mimang Lekyil of COCIN LCC Kwakas-Mushere was attacked and killed in the pastorium.

He added the pastor’s wife was shot in the leg and is currently receiving treatment at Jos University Teaching Hospital.

According to him, the situation escalated on Monday, when native youths who were angered by attacks reportedly razed Fulani structures in the same Kwakas area where the pastor was killed.

However, security personnel intervened and brought the situation under control.

Kefas further stated that tragically, the same day, at around 9 pm, the herders’ militia mobilised themselves and attacked the neighbouring Mbor community of Mushere and killed seven natives.

The chairman said the corpse of the pastor has been deposited in the mortuary at Luna Hospital, in Bokkos.

Kefas said,” In the afternoon of Monday, 26th May 2025, native youths who were angry with the unprovoked attack and killing of the pastor reportedly razed Fulani structures in the same Kwakas area where the incident took place, but security personnel intervened and brought the whole thing under control.

“They were making efforts to calm the angry youths in the community but at about 9 pm last night Monday, 26th May 2025, seven natives were attacked and killed at Mbor community of Mushere by suspected herders. Security agencies were alerted but before their arrival, the casualties were recorded.

“Due to inadequate presence of security personnel in the area right now, some native women and children are leaving Kopmur, and surrounding settlements near Mbor to any seemingly safer places.

“I have just called the DPO to let him know that the people in the affected community  are calling me and that there is no presence of security men there and his number is not going through but I called the DCO who told me that they have already deployed security men to the area.

“This is the situation in these communities of Bokkos LGA right now as I speak with you

Contacted, the Spokesman for the Plateau State Police Command, Alabo Alfred said the situation was under control adding that the state Commissioner of Police, Emmanuel Adesina had deployed security operatives to maintain law and order in the affected communities

Oil marketers bag 14 years each for N2.2bn subsidy scam

The Lagos Special Offences Court has sentenced two oil marketers, Mamman Nasir Ali and Christian Taylor, to 14 years imprisonment each for their involvement in a N2.2bn oil subsidy fraud.

Justice Mojisola Dada, presiding over the Special Offences Court in Ikeja, Lagos, delivered the verdict, finding the defendants guilty of defrauding the Federal Government through false claims related to the petroleum subsidy program.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), which prosecuted the case, confirmed the conviction via its official X platform yesterday.

The EFCC stated that the judgment “underscores the unwavering commitment of the Commission to combating economic crimes and ensuring justice is served.”

Ali and Taylor were re-arraigned alongside their company, Nasaman Oil Services Limited, on an amended 57-count charge, following new findings during the ongoing investigation.

Their initial arraignment had been on a 49-count charge, which included conspiracy to obtain money by false pretence, forgery, and the use of false documents.

According to court documents, the fraudulent activities involved inflated claims for the importation of Premium Motor Spirit.

One of the charges detailed how, on or about November 9, 2011, the defendants, along with others still at large (Oluwaseun Ogunbambo and Olabisi Abdul-Afeez), conspired to “obtain the sum of N749,991,273.36… from the Federal Government of Nigeria by falsely claiming that the sum… represented subsidy accruing to Nasaman Oil Services Ltd under the Petroleum Support Fund for the importation of 10,031,986 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), which Nasaman Oil Services Ltd purported to have purchased from SEATAC Petroleum Ltd of British Virgin Islands and imported into Nigeria through MT Liquid Fortune Ltd Ex MT Overseas Lima, which representation you knew to be false.”

Another count further elaborated on their scheme, stating that on or about April 11, 2011, the defendants fraudulently “obtained the sum of N1,480,074,125.61… from the Federal Government of Nigeria by claiming that the sum represented subsidy accruing to Nasaman Oil Services Ltd under the Petroleum Support Fund for the importation of 20,492,982.50 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), which Nasaman Oil Services Ltd purported to have purchased from SEATAC Petroleum Ltd of British Virgin Islands and imported into Nigeria through MT Liquid Fortune Ex Mt. Hellenic Blue and Ex MT. Milleura, which representation you knew to be false.”

The defendants had pleaded not guilty to all charges. The case initially commenced before Justice Adeniyi Onigbanjo of the Lagos State High Court, but was later re-assigned to Justice Dada following Justice Onigbanjo’s withdrawal.

During the trial, the prosecution, led by Seiduh Atteh, presented compelling evidence, including witness testimonies and various documents, all of which were admitted by the court.

In her judgment, Justice Dada reviewed the evidence and concluded that the prosecution had proven its case beyond a reasonable doubt.

She emphasised that the actions of Ali and Taylor not only defrauded the Nigerian government of substantial public funds but also significantly undermined the integrity of the nation’s critical oil subsidy program.

The EFCC’s statement on X reiterated that “this verdict serves as a strong deterrent to others who may contemplate similar fraudulent activities.

Children’s Day: I see a glorious future for Nigerian children, says Uzodimma

Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has expressed confidence in a glorious future for Nigerian children, assuring them that the foundation for that future is already being laid.

He urged Nigerian children never to lose hope or give in to despair, despite the tough economic times facing the world, and Nigeria in particular.

In his message to mark this year’s Children’s Day, Governor Uzodimma assured Nigerian children that both President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the country’s governors are working hard to build a future they can be proud of, a future filled with progress, opportunity, and lasting development.

In a statement he personally signed, Governor Uzodimma said the groundwork was being laid for today’s children to one day inherit a prosperous and peaceful nation.

He noted that the economic reforms being carried out by the current administration are meant to strengthen the systems that support Nigeria’s growth especially in building roads, schools, hospitals, and other vital infrastructure.

He added that in Imo State, his administration has begun revitalising the health and education sectors, two pillars that are essential to helping children grow, learn, and thrive.

“My administration has invested heavily in education and health, two key areas that help children dream big and achieve their goals. I assure you, your future is bright,” he stated.

However, he encouraged Nigerian children to believe in their country and work hard to grow, especially by learning, staying in school, and building useful skills for the future.

He urged them to stay away from bad influences like cultism, theft, and other harmful behaviours that could ruin their future.

Uzodimma also encouraged children to appreciate the sacrifices their parents make by showing them love, respect, and obedience.

Alleged N4bn fraud: Judge’s suspension stalls EFCC’s case against ex-Gov. Obiano

The suspension of Justice InyangEkwo of a Federal High Court in Abuja stalled the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC)’s money laundering case against former Anambra Governor, Willie Obiano.

The National Judicial Council (NJC) at its 108th meeting held between April 29 and April 30, suspended Justice Ekwo.

Although the Chief Judge of FHC, Justice John Tsoho, in his May 18 press release, directed Justice M. G. Umar from Enugu Judicial Division to take over cases earlier presided over by Justice Ekwo, the new judge is yet to resume work.

A check at the court yesterday showed that sitting was yet to begin as directed by the CJ.Obiano was Anambra governor between March 2014 and March 2022.

The former governor, in a nine-count charge, was alleged to have among others, misappropriated over N4 billion from the state’s treasury.

It would be recalled that the EFCC’s lawyer, SylvanusTahir, SAN, led two witnesses in evidence in the trial of the ex-governor on Oct. 7, 2024.

A former commercial bank staff, MrUgochukwuOtubelu, had revealed how he managed the security vote account under Obiano’s government.

Otubelu, the 3rd prosecution witness (PW-3), said though he was with the bank between Nov. 2, 2008 and March 24, 2023, he said he is now a businessman.

He said that the signatories to the security vote account were the former Principal Secretary to the ex-governor, Willy Nwokoye, and the Accountant, TheophilusNweze.

He said he interfaced with them mostly on daily and weekly basis in processing their transactions.

The PW-3, who admitted that funds from the security votes account went into six companies’ account, said the money did not go to the account holders.

The EFCC also called HayatuHadejia, a Bureau De Change (BDC) operator as PW-4.

Hadejia told the court that he is a businessman, who runs BDC companies.

He said he had five companies and was invited by the EFCC as part of its investigations into the financial activities of the government of ex-governor Obiano.

Another BDC Operator, AyubaTanko, on Nov. 13, 2024, said between April and December 2017, a total sum of N416 million was paid into a company’s account he used, by proxy, in the ongoing trial of Obiano.

Ayuba, who was PW-5, said the N416 million which was received in tranches, was given back as 1.137 million US dollars equivalent.

“I am a trader. I trade in forex exchange. I trade in USDs, Euros and pounce sterling.

“I do source for customers and I do exchange and collect commission,” he said.

The PW-5 said he used two companies; Sauki Bureau De Change and Zigaziga Trading and Company Ltd for his business.

He said he was invited by the EFCC, through its Investigation Department, in 2023 and was questioned about Zigaziga Trading and Company Ltd’s account domiciled in one of the commercial banks.

When the senior lawyer asked him how much he received at the period, the witness said: “Between April 2017 to December 2017, the total money I received at that period was 416 million in naira.

“And I gave a dollar equivalent as 1, 137, 000.00 US dollars,” he said.

Ayuba said besides this transaction, he did not do any other business with the Anambra government under Gov. Obiano.

Obiano’s lawyer, OnyechiIkpeazu, SAN, during cross examination, asked the PW-5 if he had ever had any dealing with the ex-governor directly, Ayuba said: “I did not deal directly with the defendant.”

The prosecution counsel also called three bankers, who gave their testimonies in the alleged money laundering charge.

Thereports  had it that the NJC slammed a one-year suspension without pay on three serving judicial officers, including a Justice of the Court of Appeal, for various acts of judicial misconduct.The disciplinary actions were among several key resolutions reached at the Council’s 108th meeting held on April 29 and 30, 2025, under the chairmanship of the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice KudiratKekere-Ekun.

This is contained in a statement issued by the NJC’s Deputy Director of Information, KemiOgedengbe.

The NJC said Justice Jane E. Inyang of the Court of Appeal, Uyo Division, was found guilty of breaching Rule 3 (5) of the Revised Code of Conduct for Judicial Officers.

The council said, “Justice Jane E. Inyang was found to have abused his office by issuing inappropriate Ex parte Orders for the sale ofUdemeEsset’s petrol station and other businesses at the interlocutory stage of the case.

Similarly, Justice Ekwo was also suspended for one year without pay.

Saudi Arabia bars Gumi from performing Hajj, deports him to Nigeria

Controversial Kaduna-based Islamic Scholar, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has been deported back to Nigeria from Saudi Arabia where he went to perform the 2025 Hajj.

Sheikh Gumi, who confirmed this in a post on his Facebook page yesterday morning, said the development was due to some of his views of Nigerian politics

According to Gumi, although the Saudi government granted him a visa to enter the country for Hajj, he was not allowed to enter Medina to begin his religious duties.

“Due to some reasons related to my views on world politics, the authorities in Saudi Arabia do not want me to be present at Hajj even though they have granted me a visa.

“I am grateful to the authorities in Nigeria who have pledged to engage with the Saudi authorities on this matter.”

It was  gathered that Gumi was part of a delegation of scholars sponsored by the Nigerian Hajj Commission, NAHCON to travel to Saudi Arabia for religious services.

Police arrest woman for stabbing co-wife to death in Katsina

The Katsina State Police Command, on Sunday, arrested a 25-year-old housewife in connection with the death of her co-wife.

The incident occurred behind Dadi Primary School, SabonGari Area of Daura town, Daura Local Government Area of the state when a domestic dispute between co-wives escalated into a fatal confrontation.

This is contained in a statement by the command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Abubakar Sadiq, and made available to newsmen on Sunday in Katsina.

The statement reads, “On May 24, 2025, at about 2300 hours (11pm), a report was received at the SabonGari Division through one Nasir Yusuf, the husband, that he had returned home from the market and found his first wife, namely, ZainabLawal ‘F’, 30 years old, lying in a pool of blood; she had been stabbed multiple times with a knife.

“Upon receipt of the report, quickly, the DPO led a team of operatives to the scene and subsequently rushed the victim to Federal Medical Centre, Daura for medical attention, where she was pronounced dead by the doctor on duty.

“During the investigation, her co-wife, one Rabi’aLabaran ‘F’, 23 years old, of the same address, was arrested in connection with the offence, where she confessed to the commission of the offence, stating that a misunderstanding with the deceased led to a scuffle and the tragic incident. Investigation is ongoing.

“The Commissioner of Police, Katsina State Command, CP Bello Shehu, urges members of the public to shun all acts of domestic violence and refrain from taking the law into their own hands, instead seeking legal means for redress in cases of disputes, as vigilantism only perpetuates harm and undermines the rule of law.”

Man bags life jail for defiling stepdaughter

A High Court sitting in Ado-EKiti yesterday sentenced one Jayeoba Oluwafemi, 56, to life imprison for defiling his 14-year-old stepdaughter.

The 56 year old convict was arraigned before Justice AdekunleAdeleye on Dec. 4, 2020 on one count charge of defilement.

The charge said the defendant on October 26, 2020 at Ado Ekiti defiled the 14 years old girl (names withheld), which is contrary to Section 31 (2) of the Child’s Right Law, Cap. C7, Laws of Ekiti State, 2012.

The victim, in her testimony before the court, said, “My mother got married to the defendant, we were not living together but he used to sleep in our house especially when my mother was not at home or travelled.

“On October 26, 2020, my mother travelled to Lagos and the defendant slept in our house, at midnight he forcefully had sex with me and thereafter, blood was gushing out of my virgina. I called my mother the following morning to inform her but the defendant denied.

“He continued this act anytime my mother was not around, I used to tell my mother on her arrival but she did nothing about it. When he noticed that I was telling my mother about his continuous sexual activity with me, he started threatening me.

“One day, he wanted to beat me and I ran out of the house, I met one woman on the road, I told her what happened and she directed me to the governor’s office to lodge official complaint which led to his arrest.”

To prove his case, the prosecutor, Julius Ajibare called six witnesses and tendered the defendant’s statement and medical report as exhibits.

The defendant was also represented by his defense counsel, OladeleAdedeji, who called one witness.

In his judgment, Justice AdekunleAdeleye said, “I am of the humble view that the sexual intercourse sessions were on several occasions, it was not a one off affair.

“And upon careful analysis of the entire circumstance of this case, the change in story or outright denial by the defendant is an afterthought.

“The prosecution has established the offence of defilement against the defendant beyond reasonable doubt. He is accordingly found guilty as charged and hereby sentenced to life imprisonment as provided for under the provisions of Section 31 (2) of the Child’s Rights Law, Cap. C7, Laws of Ekiti State, 2012.”

Wike justifies sealing of PDP secretariat, FIRS office, others

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), NyesomWike, after carrying out hist threat to seal the National secretariat of the Peoples Democratic Party and 4,973 other properties who violated the law on payment of Ground Rent, has provided justification for the exercise.

At exactly 2:06 pm, a group of FCTA staff locked the entrance gate of Wadata Plaza, the PDP’s national secretariat located in Wuse Zone 5, Abuja.

This action followed the FCTA’s recent announcement on Friday stating its intention to reclaim properties affected by the revocation of 4,794 land titles due to non-payment of ground rent spanning 10 to 43 years.

Briefing journalists shortly after the exercise, the Minister who spoke through his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, LereOlayinka, explained that “we are not here for politics.

“If you are talking about political witch hunt, we have been to Ibro hotels, we have been to Access Bank, we have been to FIRS, we have been to Total Petrol Station, we are also still going to other places, and tomorrow we will go to other places.”

According to him ,”This exercise will continue as long as we are able to conclude the taking possession of those over 4,000 properties. So, are we also going to say all those ones that I mentioned are for politics?”

Also speaking, the director of Land in the FCTA, ChijiokeNwankwoeze, said the property holders were duly notified.

“Senator SamailaMamman Kofi was duly served the revocation notice and out of abundance of caution, we also came here and pasted the revocation notice served on SamailaMamman Kofi at his Kaduna address, the address on record,” Nwankwoeze said.

“SamailaMamman Kofi is the owner of the property and the address we have in our records for him is that of Kaduna and we duly served him.

“This is a copy of the revocation notice and the evidence of service, this is him, served since the 14th of March 2025 and a copy of this was duly pasted at the gate of this building.”

On claims by the FIRS that it had paid the ground rents for the building that was sealed, Nwankwoeze said: “No, we keep good records. In this case, we are talking of 28 years.

“The owner of this property, SamailaMamman Kofi, was owing 28 years ground rent. And then FIRS is 25 years. So we keep proper records.

“When you pay your ground rent, you will have to be issued with receipt of payment. Let the FIRS present the receipt of payment issued by the Lands Department or the FCTA, showing that they paid ground rent for 25 years on the property we went to. So those claims are not completely true.

“Some of them, like FIRS, they claim they own the property. But in our records, they don’t. If you buy property, you have to register your interest.

“The property which FIRS is occupying, where we just sealed before coming here, is owned by Fortunate Case Limited (not sure about this name). When we got there, they said they own the property. But obviously, they didn’t do what they needed to do, so that they will be recognized as the owners.”

In a reaction to the sealing off of properties exercise, the Human Rights Writers Association, (HURIWA) led by its coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, said “Failure to pay ground rent by an “owner” should be an irregularity and such attracting penalty and not forfeiture as a primary recourse.”

We’re not behind 776 deaths, economic losses across South-East – IPOB

The Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, said it is not responsible for 776 deaths and substantial economic losses across the South-East region of the country.

This was contained in a statement by the group’s spokesperson, Emma Powerful.

The statement was in reaction to the allegations contained in a recent report by SBM Intelligence, which blamed IPOB for the deaths and substantial economic downturn in the region.

IPOB in the statement rejected the findings, describing them as inaccurate and unsubstantiated.

The group said it officially cancelled the Monday sit-at-home directive in 2021, and its detained leader, MaziNnamdiKanu, had previously disowned any individuals or groups acting independently to enforce such orders.

“Any incident attributed to sit-at-home actions should not be automatically linked to IPOB,” the group stated. Our organization has made it clear that we do not support any form of violence or disruption of public life,” it said.

IPOB maintained that no credible evidence had been presented directly connecting it to the incidents cited in the report.

The group called for independent verification, urging those responsible for the report to provide substantiation through appropriate legal channels.

It also questioned the timing of the report’s publication, noting that it came shortly before Biafra Heroes Day — an annual commemoration held on May 30 to honour individuals who died during the Nigerian Civil War.

“This period is deeply significant to our members and supporters. We hope that discussions and publications around this time would reflect sensitivity and balance,” IPOB added.

 ‘You’re the greatest betrayer’ – PDP group fires back at Wike

Wike
Wike

A group under the aegis of the PDP Frontiers for Change and Progress, has slammed the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, NyesomWike, saying he is the real betrayer and architect of the crisis bedeviling the party.

The group urged the minister to honourably leave PDP instead of staying behind to cause confusion, accusing him of standing truth in the head and playing to the gallery.

The group was reacting to Wike’s allegation that Governor SeyiMakinde of Oyo State, and his Enugu State counterpart, Peter Mbah, were betrayers and the architects of the party’s protracted crisis.

Thereports  saidthat Wike had in a strong-worded statement on Sunday, announced his pullout from all ‘gentleman agreements’ on how to resolve the party’s leadership tussles, vowing to fight to finish.

In the statement, Wike had claimed that Makinde and Mbah made reconciliation of the party’s crisis impossible, accusing the duo of reneging in a purported agreement earlier reached by key stakeholders.

The former Rivers State governor said the stakeholders had earlier agreed that Senator Samuel Anyanwu be retained as the PDP’s National Secretary, and that all suits against the Rivers’ emergency rule be withdrawn, conditions he accused Makinde and Mbah of violating.

However, the PDP support group, in a swift reaction, accused Wike of being smart by half, and mounting smear campaign to blackmail Mbah and Makinde.

National Coordinator of the group, Emeka Yellow Ikpegbu, expressed surprise that Wike who he alleged had been the APC mole in PDP, could accuse genuine and committed stakeholders of what himself is guilty of.

According to Ikpegbu, Wike and his boot-lickers dragging the leadership of PDP in some of the states are the destabilising forces on a mission to sink the party.

”Instead of masquerading as a peace maker while he is the one igniting the fire, Wike should better leave PDP.

“Wike should stop pretending. We know his spirit has since left PDP after sabotaging the party in 2023. Now is the time to completely pull out of the party, and not just pulling out of the so-called gentleman agreement. We want him to also pull out of the PDP He has given us enough discomfort,” Ikpegbu said.

Under control – Nigerian Army reacts to suspected Abuja suicide bomb blast

The Nigerian Army has reacted to yesterday’s explosion in Abuja, in which a suspected suicide bomber was killed.

The Army said the situation is under control.

Posting on its verified X handle, the Nigerian Army wrote: “BREAKING NEWS, explosion at bus stop opposite Mogadishu Cantonment in Abuja. Situation under control, details later….”.

It was reported that an explosion suspected to have been caused by a bomb killed one person on Monday in Abuja.

Another person was reportedly injured in the explosion, said to be triggered by an improvised explosive device (IED).

An eyewitness – a military personnel who did not give his name – said the man, believed to be a suicide bomber, was killed by an explosive contained in a rubber can close to Mogadishu Barrack in Abuja

However, military authorities present at the scene said the situation could be an explosion from a phone device and not IED.

Personnel of the military, DSS, police and officers of the National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, were deployed to the scene of the incident

Man stabs friend to death over missing stabilizer in Ondo

A 23-year-old tailor, Faith Adeola, popularly known as ‘Chelsea,’ has been arraigned in an Akure Magistrates’ Court for the alleged murder of a middle-aged man, GbengaOlotu, during a violent dispute.

The incident occurred on May 10, 2025, in Ikese community, Oka-Akoko, Akoko South West Local Government Area of Ondo State.

The defendant and the deceased, who regarded each other as “street brothers”, engaged in a heated argument after Olotu accused Adeola of misplacing his stabilizer.

The situation escalated when Olotu, allegedly under the influence of hard drugs, brandished a knife and attempted to attack both Adeola and his wife during which Adeola wrestled the weapon from Olotu and fatally stabbed him in the chest.

The deceased was said to have been rushed to a nearby medical center but was pronounced dead upon arrival due to excessive blood loss.

The case was initially reported at the Oka-Akoko Police Division before being transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Akure, the state capital.

Police Prosecutor, Inspector FolashadeAdeyemi informed the court that Adeola’s actions violated Sections 316 and 319 of the Criminal Laws of Ondo State (2006), which pertain to murder and unlawful acts resulting in death.

The charge read, “Faith Adeola ‘m’, on May 10, 2025, at about 2:30, at Ikese community, Oka-Akoko, in the Ondo State Magisterial District, did unlawfully stab one OlotuGbenga ‘m’ a.k.a. ‘Zagazar” with a knife in his chest and also hit him with wood on his body, which resulted in his death.”

With the defendant’s plea not taken, Adeyemi prayed the court to remand Adeola to the correctional centre pending legal advice from the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP).

The magistrate, Mrs R.I. Adelakin, therefore adjourned the case till May 29 for the hearing of the application and ruling, with the defendant subsequently remanded at the SCID, Akure.

EFCC arraigns bank staff, others over alleged N8.5bn fraud in Lagos

The Lagos Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), on Friday, May 23, 2025, arraigned three staff members of a first-generation bank – Samuel IhechukwuAsiegbu, Fabian ChizaramOnyeimachi, and Kingsley KelechiEjim – before Justice Daniel Osiagor at the Federal High Court in Ikoyi, Lagos.

The defendants were charged alongside four other individuals – Hannah OkunlolaAdesokan, HamzaZakariya, AchionuChukwukaUbaku, and Sunday Osademe.

They face an eight-count charge bordering on conspiracy and obtaining money under false pretence, amounting to N8.5 billion.

One of the charges read: “That you, Samuel IhechukwuAsiegbu, Ejim Kingsley Kelechi, HamzaZakaria, Onyeimachi Fabian, AchionuChukwukaUbaka, Adesokan Hannah Okunlola, Nurudeen Ibrahim (at large), AlhajiSulaiman (at large), and others now at large, sometime in January 2025, conspired to cause the loss of funds from bank accounts domiciled in Wema Bank Nigeria Plc, with intent to unlawfully benefit financially, thereby committing an offence contrary to Section 27(1)(a) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015, and punishable under the same Act.”

All the defendants pleaded not guilty to the charges when read in court.

Following their plea, prosecuting counselAsoLarrys Peters requested the court to set a trial date and to remand the defendants at the Nigerian Correctional Centre.

However, counsel to Hannah Okunlola pleaded for her to be held in EFCC custody due to health concerns.

Justice Osiagor adjourned the case to June 6, 2025 for the commencement of trial.

He ordered that five of the accused be remanded in the custody of the Nigerian Correctional Service, while Kingsley EjimKelechi was allowed to remain on his existing bail conditions.

Hannah Okunlola was directed to remain in EFCC custody pending trial.

147 Imo kidnap, murder suspects in police net

The Imo State Police Command has arrested 147 suspects for crimes ranging from armed robbery, kidnapping, murder, rape, stealing, receiving stolen property, child trafficking, and terrorism.

The police spokesperson for the state command, Henry Okoye, made the disclosure in a statement on Sunday.

This is even as he announced a breakthrough that operatives in Umuaka, Njaba Local Government Area, on May 20, arrested OziomaIhedoro, a 37-year-old native doctor, on the state’s wanted list, who admitted to being the spiritual adviser to an IPOB/ESN commander known as “B44.”

Okoye said on May 19, the Anti-Kidnapping squad, in synergy with operatives of the Njaba Police Division, arrested three armed robbery suspects —ChinonsoAnayo (aka Pablo, 24), Emmanuel John (21), and Ifeanyi John (20), all from Isiagu, in Ebonyi State.  They were apprehended, he revealed, during a surveillance operation and confessed to multiple robberies, while the police recovered one Q-Link motorcycle, two pump action guns, and 15 live cartridges.

He said, “Following thorough investigations and intelligence-led operations, 147 suspects were arrested for crimes including armed robbery, kidnapping, murder, rape, stealing, receiving stolen property, child trafficking, and terrorism. Recovered from these suspects were seven AK-47 rifles, three AK-47 magazines, seven pump action guns, seven locally fabricated long guns, 178 live cartridges, three motorcycles, various denominations of Biafra currency, four Biafra flags, and several criminal charms.

“In the course of the operations, five armed suspects were neutralized during fierce gun battles with police operatives, and seven kidnapped victims were successfully rescued.

“A breakthrough occurred on May 20, 2025, around 1600hrs in Umuaka, Njaba LGA, when anti-kidnapping operatives arrested OziomaIhedoro, a 37-year-old native doctor, on the command’s wanted list. He admitted to being the spiritual adviser to an IPOB/ESN commander known as “B44.” A search of his shrine recovered an AK-47 rifle, three magazines, and seven live rounds. He is cooperating with investigators, providing intelligence to dismantle other syndicate members at large.

In a related development, “Over the past two months, the Imo State Police Command has intensified its efforts in enhancing the peace and security of the state through a series of well-coordinated operations across the state. These efforts, executed under the strategic leadership of the Commissioner of Police, CP AbokiDanjuma, have resulted in significant successes in combating crime.”

Okoye said policing had been intensified to eliminate violent crimes saying “security measures have been strengthened across the state to eliminate kidnapping and violent crimes and urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station or the emergency line: 0803 477 3600.”

Meanwhile, the state Commissioner of Police, AbokiDanjuma, has commended operatives for their resilience even as he reiterated the command’s commitment, alongside other security agencies, to safeguard lives and property.

Imo State Bureau for Public Procurement and Price Intelligence set to  engage LGA principal officers

…On capacity, development training

In apparent move, aimed at getting the local government administration system more effective in Imo state, an impactful training has been earmarked for all the concerned officers.

The upcoming programme is not only in line with Governor Hope Uzodimma’s knack for quality job and Service delivery, it is  also to re-awaken the procurement and pricing consciousness among the LGA officials,  in the course of running their respective councils.

Against this backdrop, the Imo State Bureau For Public Procurement and Price Intelligence, BPPPI, has lined up a four-day training for all the local government top functionaries.

Speaking with newsmen in Owerriover the weekend, the State Director-General of BPPPI, Sir OkoroKelechi Clifford, disclosed that the training would hold at the popular Rockview Hotels, Owerri.

According to the DG, the programme is expected to commence on Wednesday,  May 28th,  and end  Saturday,  May 31st, 2025.

He explained that the event is exclusively designed for all the twenty-seven Executive Chairmen of the local government areas, their SECLOGs, DAGS, Treasurers and the procurement officers.

He revealed that each LGA is expected to present   five representatives, each, comprising the aforementioned offices, bringing the total number to One Hundred and Thirty-five (135) trainees.

According to Sir Okoro, his office thought it expedient to embark on the exercise, considering the need to upgrade and work in conformity with  the present reality.

In addition, he recalled how the local government system in Imo went comatose until Governor Uzodimma came on board in 2020, and revived all to functionality till date.

He expressed optimism that since God blessed the state with a listening governor, who has effected  good governance initiatives, it behooves on all, especially, the elected and appointed persons of the government, to work in tandem  with programmes that would further enhance efficiency and productivity.

According to him also, the training would further equip the LGA  Chairmen, SECLOGs, DAGS, Treasurers and Procurement Officers with the requisite knowledge of implementation, bidding, procurement and intelligent pricing.

Okoro added that such trainings would assist tremendously, in shaping the system and helping the officials to know the current trends and best practices in their respective local government areas.

He further  revealed that Resource Persons from FUTO Centre of Excellence in Sustainable Procurement, Environmental and Social Standard (CE- SPEAS) will be present, to take the participants on the rigours of the selectedDepartment of the Council Administration. The DG further revealed that Imo State BPPPI would be organising such trainings in every quarter of the year, for more knowledge and incisive tutorials for optimum results.

The state governor, Distinguished Senator (Dr) Hope Uzodimma will be the Special Guest of Honour, and to declare the event open on tomorrow.

Uzodimma reaffirms commitment to partner development agencies to improve quality of life in Imo

… Receives global partners on nutrition, food security, others

The Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma has reaffirmed his commitment to improving the quality of life of Imo citizens through enhanced healthcare facilities, qualitative education, and food security in the State.

Senator Uzodimma stated this when he received a delegation of some Global Partners – Food and Agricultural Organization, UNICEF, FHI- 360, Result for Development, among others – working on Nutrition and Food Security in Nigeria at the New Exco Chambers, Government House Owerri Monday May 26, 2025.

The Governor who expressed joy that Imo was among the focal states for the intervention programmes and projects, noted that the programmes align with his administration’s core values of “providing sustainable development, promoting quality living and emancipating our people.”

He disclosed that his administration established a University of Agriculture as part of its business template to address food security, with the whole idea “to promote practical agriculture, boost food production for food sufficiency and export for foreign currency earning.”

“Today, willing partners like the FAO, UNICEF, FHI-360, Result for Development and Federal Ministry of Health have volunteered to partner the State,” a joyous Senator Uzodimma said, assuring that “Imo is willing, able and committed to collaborate with these partners.”

He thanked the leader of the team who is also the House Committee Chairman on Nutrition and National Food Security/Member representing Okigwe South Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. ChikeOkafor, for recommending Imo State to benefit from the programme/projects.

Governor Uzodimma also urged the team to feel free to discuss all relevant aspects of their agenda and programme with the partnering ministries – Agriculture and Food Security, Education (Both Primary and Tertiary), Budget and Planning and Health – whose Commissioners were in attendance at the meeting.

Earlier, Rt. Hon. Okafor disclosed that the funding partners and donor Agencies on food and nutrition had a mandate to support national and sub-national governments in the areas of improving nutrition and making food available for the people.

He said the groups were in Imo to commence their programmes and projects, pointing out that the state is strategic, giving the position of Governor Uzodimma who is the Chairman of the Progressives Governors as well as the Chairman of South East Governor’s Forum.

Rt. Hon. Okafor commended the Governor for the holistic approach to development across the state, placing on record the untiring efforts of the Governor’s team to make the visit most fruitful.

He appreciated the agencies for the commitments made in Imo State, especially the Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO), a subset of the United Nations which has already started a programme in Imo State that runs into hundreds of thousands of dollars, and expressed optimism that the programme will create greater impact to the people.

Contributing, the Country Director, Nutrition Intervention, Dr. OsitaOkonkwo and UNICEF Chief of Field Office Enugu, Mrs. Juliet Chilewe, commended the Imo State Governor for the commitments made in promoting the well-being and development of children and for the intervention in restoring peace in the State.

They appealed to the Governor to take seriously the improvement on the nutrition of the citizenry in Imo State, particularly that of children and mothers, and used the opportunity of the meeting to appeal for support for their summit coming up in July.

Dr. NuhuKilishi, National Programme Manager/Director Federal Ministry of Agriculture, disclosed that there will be stakeholders’ engagement to select one School to establish Junior Farmers Club where the students will be trained and equipped in various aspects of agriculture.

He pointed out that the project will provide borehole, brood stock and other inputs, and sought for political will and commitment of the government in sustaining the project.

Other representatives who spoke and made case for improved nutrition in Imo State include, Country Director, FHI-360, Dr. Victor Ogbodo, the Country Director, Results For Development, Dr. Felix Obi.

The Deputy Governor of Imo State Lady Chinyere Ekomaru, the Secretary to the State Government, Chief Cosmos Iwu, the Chief of Staff, Barr.NnamdiAnyaehie, and members of the expanded executive council attended the meeting.

2027: Atiku, Obi, Amaechi court Northern power bloc

Ahead of the 2027 election, former Vice President AtikuAbubakar, 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, former Rivers State Governor RotimiAmaechi, and other coalition leaders have met to gain the support of certain northern leaders in their effort to defeat President Bola Tinubu.

The meeting, convened by the National Political Consultative Group (North), was held behind closed doors on Sunday at the Abuja Continental Hotel.

On March 20, Atiku, Obi, former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, and others in Abuja announced the formation of a coalition aimed at challenging President Boka Tinubu in the 2027 election.

The announcement sparked widespread debate about the prospects of opposition unity, with political stakeholders expressing varied opinions.

Attendees included former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, BabachirLawal; Chairman of the PDP Board of Trustees, AdolphusWabara; and former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, AbubakarMalami, SAN.

Also present were the National Secretary of the Coalition for United Political Parties, Peter Ahmeh; Kashim Ibrahim-Imam; and the 2023 Labour Party Vice Presidential candidate, Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, among others.

The meeting began shortly after 3 p.m. and concluded around 7pm, with all the conveners and participants refusing to make any comments.

Our correspondent, who was able to gain access to the meeting venue, reported that delegates from various states, particularly the 19 northern states spoke on the current state of the nation.

It was exclusively learnt that the discussions mainly focused on issues such as security, national unity, and the need for competent leadership to ensure effective governance.

However, about two hours into the meeting, chaos erupted when delegates from Jigawa State disrupted the proceedings.

Tensions rose when former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, BabachirLawal, announced a delegate to speak for the state.

In protest, several Jigawa delegates stormed the stage, blocking the delegate from speaking and insisting they would not be represented by those named.

As the confrontation escalated, security personnel, including members of the Nigerian Police, DSS, and private guards, quickly formed a protective barrier around key figures such as Atiku, Amaechi and others.

Calm was restored after several minutes of appeals, as Mustapha Lamido, son of former Jigawa State Governor,SuleLamido, along with another delegate, was chosen to speak on behalf of the state.

A reliable source, who spoke on condition of anonymity due to lack of authorisation to comment publicly, told our correspondent that northern political leaders gathered to discuss what they described as the worsening issues of poverty, insecurity, and hunger across the country particularly in northern Nigeria under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

The source said, “Obi and Amaechi, in their brief remarks, stated that President Tinubu’s administration is driving the North deeper into poverty, which is worsening the region’s insecurity.

“Ahead of 2027, they urged northern leaders to wake up and unite to rescue the region from Tinubu’s harsh economic policies. They called for northern unity and support for an alternative government.

“In their remarks as well, Atiku and Malami also blamed the Tinubu administration for many of the challenges facing the North. They encouraged stakeholders to support the ongoing efforts to unseat Tinubu in 2027.

“During the technical session of the meeting, stakeholders from various states strongly agreed that the North must fully support the ongoing coalition of opposition parties.

“They agreed to set up four committees to look at all the issues. So, they will issue a communique tomorrow (today).”

Speaking with our correspondent about the purpose of the meeting, the National Secretary of the CUPP, who was in attendance, said it was aimed at reviewing the current situation in the region.Ahmeh explained that the coalition leaders took time to address the economic, security, and other pressing challenges facing northerners under the Tinubu administration.He stated, “It is just a consultative meeting on the issues affecting the north. So, we discussed them and came up with solutions. Details will be made public tomorrow (today).

Minister sets up team to manage Emefiele-linked estate

The Honourable Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Dangiwa, yesterday unveiled a twelve-member ministerial committee to oversee the 753-unit recovered housing estate linked to former Central Bank of Nigeria Governor, Godwin Emefiele.

The estate was recently handed over to the Ministry by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, following a directive from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

In a statement released yesterday, Dangiwaemphasised the critical nature of the assignment, describing it as a key step towards realising the housing component of the Renewed Hope Agenda.

The statement read, “Housing and Urban Development Minister, Ahmed Dangiwa, has inaugurated a twelve-member ministerial committee on the 753-unit recovered housing estate located in the Lokogoma district, Abuja, FCT.”

He reiterated that the committee’s mandate aligns with the President’s vision and the Ministry’s reform objectives to transform the estate into liveable, secure, and affordable homes for Nigerians.

“The committee was constituted based on the vision of Mr President and the Ministry’s housing reform drive to ensure that the recovered property is swiftly transformed into liveable, secure, and affordable homes for the benefit of Nigerians,” he said.

Dangiwa underscored the importance of technical expertise and institutional integrity in executing the assignment, noting that committee members were selected from key departments within the Ministry.

“Your selection is a testament to the confidence the Ministry has in your ability to drive this initiative with the seriousness and efficiency it demands.

“Nigerians are watching and expect results. They want to see homes completed and allocated transparently. They want to see the government working for them,” Dangiwaemphasised, urging committee members to collaborate effectively and remove unnecessary bottlenecks.

He charged them to adopt a fresh mindset, stating, “Think outside the box. Be results-oriented.”

The committee is chaired by the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, ShuaibBelgore, and includes senior directors and aides from the technical, financial, engineering, planning, procurement, and media departments.

The committee’s Terms of Reference include conducting a thorough structural and integrity assessment of the buildings, determining the number and condition of housing units, and valuing existing work through proper surveying and market evaluation.

Additionally, the committee will assess costs required to complete essential infrastructure such as roads, power, and water. It will also develop standards for architectural and finishing consistency, propose a fair and transparent strategy for disposal and allocation of units via the Renewed Hope Housing Portal, and devise a public engagement plan to build confidence.

The committee must ensure effective coordination with key stakeholders, including the EFCC, FCTA, and relevant utility providers. A preliminary report is expected within four weeks.

The Minister of State, Yusuf Ata, emphasised the need for the committee to co-opt additional professionals as required, given the scale of the task and tight deadline.

“The committee should have the authority to co-opt members to assist, considering the magnitude of the task and the four-week timeline,” he noted.

Belgore assured that the team would execute its duties diligently and professionally.

“The committee has been tasked with ensuring the recovered estate undergoes a comprehensive technical assessment, is strategically completed, and disposed of transparently and cost-effectively, in line with national housing delivery objectives,” he said.

He added that the success of the assignment would serve as a model for transforming recovered public assets into impactful infrastructure.

“The successful execution of this assignment will serve as a benchmark for converting recovered public assets into infrastructure that directly benefits the people,” he concluded.

Reps Speaker withdraws mandatory voting bill amid controversy

Speaker of the Nigerian House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, has withdrawn the controversial Compulsory Voting Bill to amend Electoral Act 2022.

The bill withdrawal was disclosed in a statement yesterday by the speaker’s special adviser on media and publicity, Musa Abdullahi Krishi.

According to him, the decision was to give room for further dialogue on the bill, which generated controversies.

“Following extensive consultations with a broad spectrum of stakeholders, he has decided to withdraw the Bill to Amend the Electoral Act 2022 to make voting mandatory for all eligible Nigerians, which he co-sponsored with Hon. Daniel Adama Ago.”

This withdrawal will allow time for further dialogue on how best to cultivate a culture of voluntary participation that honours both our democratic ideals and the rights of our citizens.”

The reports said that in mid-May, a bill that sought to amend the Electoral Act 2022 to make voting mandatory for all eligible Nigerians passed second reading in the House of Representatives.

However, senior lawyers such as human rights activist, RemiFalana kicked against the bill.

FCTA seals PDP National Secretariat over non-payment of ground rent for 28 years

The Federal Capital Territory Authority, FCTA, yesterday, sealed the National Secretariat of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP.

FCTA sealed the Secretariat located in Zone 5 area of Abuja for failing to pay its ground rent.This was confirmed to newsmen, by the spokesman of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Nyesom Wike, Lere Olayinka.

According to Olayinka: “FCTA seals PDP Secretariat in Zone 5 Abuja. It was revoked for not paying ground rent.

“Senator Samaila MammanKurfi, owner of the property, failed to pay Ground Rent for 28 years.”

Suspected suicide bomber killed in Abuja explosion

An explosion suspected to have been caused by a bomb killed one person yesterday in Abuja.Another person was reportedly injured in the explosion, said to be triggered by an improvised explosive device (IED).
According to eyewitness report – a military personnel who did not give his name said the man, believed to be a suicide bomber, was killed by an explosive contained in a rubber can close to Mogadishu Barrack in Abuja
However, military authorities present at the scene said the situation could be an explosion from a phone device and not IED.
At the time of this report, personnel of the military, DSS, police and officers of the National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, are still taking inventory of the situation.

Gov Uzodimma sacks commissioner for Justice, Akaolisa

Governor Uzodimma

Governor Hope Uzodimma has approved the immediate sack of the Imo State Attorney- General and Commissioner for Justice, Barr. C.O.CAkaolisa.

The erstwhile Commissioner has been directed to hand over all government property under his care to the State Solicitor General and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Justice, immediately.

This is contained in a statement issued yesterday by the state Commissioner for Information, Public Orientation, and Strategy, Declan MbadiweEmelumba.

The terse statement reads, “The Governor of Imo State, His Excellency, Senator Hope Uzodimma, CON, has approved the immediate removal from the office of the State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Barr C .O. C Akaolisa,

“The erstwhile Commissioner has been directed to hand over all government property under his care to the State Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Justice, immediately.”

According to Emelumba, the exercise is a result of a minor cabinet reshuffle to rejig the administration of His Excellency.

Tinubu is God’s gift to Nigeria  —  Prince Arthur Eze

The Chief Executive Officer of Atlas Oranto Petroleum, Prince Arthur Eze, has described President Bola Tinubu as “God’s gift to Nigeria” and praised his leadership style, reform-driven governance, and commitment to national unity.

In an upcoming State House documentary marking President Tinubu’s second anniversary in office, Prince Eze said the President exemplified the bold, God-ordained leadership Nigeria needs at this pivotal moment in history.

A statement by the presidential spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, quoted the oil magnet and philanthropist as saying: “God doesn’t make mistakes. That man, Tinubu, was created for a purpose. God gave him the power to change lives. Tinubu has no enemies. He is a unifier. He speaks with humility and honesty; that’s why we admire him.”

Reflecting on his experience during the Nigerian civil war and his deep roots in the Southeast, Prince Eze noted that Tinubu has demonstrated an unprecedented commitment to inclusivity and development in the region.

“What Tinubu has done for the Southeast, nobody else has. He gave us the Minister of Works, the Minister of Science and Technology, and the Southeast Development Commission. This is an opportunity for the Igbo to unite with the rest of Nigeria,” he declared.

On the Renewed Hope Agenda, the 76-year-old business leader expressed confidence that President Tinubu has fulfilled his promises.

He noted that the President assumed office at a time of economic fragility and political uncertainty but has shown the wisdom and resolve required to steer the nation toward progress.

“God has given him the wisdom to change Nigeria for the good of the present and future generations,” Arthur Eze said.

Prince Eze urged Nigerians to support the President for stability, growth, and future prosperity.

“He’s not a man of division — whether Christian or Muslim, he respects all. All he asks is that we pray to God and work together.”

The Southeast leader concluded with a prayer for the President: “May God guide Nigeria and President Tinubu. He gave him this power and will help him complete the job.”

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