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Reinstatement of Emir Sanusi done in Kano’s best interest –Govt

The Kano state government has said the reinstatement of the deposed Emir of Kano, Alhaji Muhammadu Sanusi II was done in the least interest of the state.

This is just as the government noted that the state remained peaceful despite pockets of public disturbance perpetrated by some miscreants.

The Commissioner of Information, Baba Halilu Dantiye, in a statement on Monday, said the government had noted with grave concerns reports by some section of the media on “the grossly exaggerated violent protests” in some parts of the state regarding the recent abrogation of the four emirates and reinstatement of Sunusi as the Emir of Kano.

The statement read, “In view of the current tense situation in the state, the need to allay the fears of the public following the reports, reassure them of government commitment in ensuring the protection of their lives and properties and set the record straight has become necessary to clarify the inaccuracies in the media reports and present the true situation on the ground.

“Contrary to media reports, there have been no widespread violent protests in Kano State. While the government is aware of isolated incidents in few areas by a handful of small children and hired miscreants and thugs, these do not in any way reflect the overall situation. These hired unpatriotic individuals were only aiming to destabilize the state for the personal gain and selfish interests of their paymasters. The great majority of Kano state’s citizens have shown remarkable restraints and understanding of the sincere action of the state government.

“It also behooves to reiterate that the decision by the administration of Abba Kabir Yusuf to legally abrogate the emirates and reinstate the 14th Emir of Kano State was made after careful consideration of the best interests of the state. The move has been welcomed by a significant portion of the populace who understands and cherishes the long-term benefits of a unified emirate structure.”

The government further said that some political actors were manipulating the situation to create chaos and unrest, adding those elements were using the media to spread false narratives and incite public disorder.

“Their actions and those of their agents are not representative of the genuine feelings of the citizens of Kano State but are instead driven by selfish ulterior motives.

“The administration of Abba Kabir Yusuf remains steadfast in its commitment to maintaining peace and stability in Kano State. The government will not renege in its responsibility to take all measures to ensure that law and order are upheld and the rights of the citizens are protected,” it added.

The government urged the general public to disregard “the sensational and grossly exaggerated media reports and support the efforts of the government to create a more cohesive and unified state while calling on the media to exercise responsible journalism and verify facts before publishing any report that has the potential to cause unnecessary tension.”

“Kano State government under the leadership of Abba Kabir Yusuf remains committed to the progress and development of the state and call on all citizens to join hands in this regard,” the statement added.

Uzodimma to Children: We are dedicated to supporting you in every possible way

Governor Hope Uzodimma has assured the Children in Imo State in particular and their counterparts all over the country, that his government is committed to supporting them in every possible way to achieve their fullest potential in life.

Governor Uzodimma has also assured the Children that his government will continue to create an enabling environment that is badly needed by them, as future leaders of the country, to be what they want to be in a positive way.

The Governor’s reassuring comments were part of his good will message to commemorate May 27, a day set aside for Children globally, and marked with pomp and circumstance in Nigeria.

Taking to his social media platform, Governor Uzodimma counselled that it is important we celebrate our Children, not just on May 27, but every day.

His words: “To our Children, as you celebrate today, remember that your dreams are the building blocks of tomorrow’s successes. We are dedicated to supporting you in every possible way, building an environment where you can achieve your fullest potential.

“Therefore, I extend my heartfelt felicitations to all Imo Children for they are indeed blessings from God and embody the hope for our future. It is imperative that we celebrate them not just today, but every day, acknowledging their potential and nurturing their growth.

“My administration has introduced several policies and programmes designed to shape the future of our children, ensuring they receive quality education, healthcare, and a safe environment to thrive.

“We remain steadfast in our commitment to implementing measures that guarantee their safety and overall well-being. Happy Children’s Day!”

Benue Assembly repeals life pension law for Akume, Suswam, Ortom, others

The Benue State House of Assembly on Monday repealed the life pension law for former governors and their deputies.

The Benue State life pension law is meant to maintain former governors and their deputies all through their lifetime.

In May 2023, a few days to the end of their tenure, the 9th Assembly had passed the controversial pension bill to extend benefits to ex-elected governors and their deputies from 1999.

Those affected include; former governors George Akume, Gabriel Suswam, Samuel Ortom, ex-deputy governors, Steven Lawani and Engr Benson Abounu, who are still alive.

But, the present 10th Assembly, during plenary on Monday repealed the bill passed into law by their predecessors on account that it was not done in good faith.

The lawmakers said the law was anti-people and they were unanimous in support of the repeal after several contributions from members of the House.

Speaker of the House, Aondona Dajoh, therefore ruled in favour of the unanimous resolution of the House to repeal the “Bill for a law to repeal provision for the maintenance of former elected governors of the state and their deputies and for other matters connected thereto 2024.”

Recall that the former Speaker of the 9th Assembly, Engr. Titus Uba, had led the plenary, which earlier passed the bill to law after it was presented on the floor by the then chairman, House Committee on Business and Rules, Hon. Geoffrey Agbatse.

The bill stipulated the conditions of the law to include, payment of a monthly stipend as a basic pension for former governors and their deputies, equivalent to the current salaries of the serving governor, from the consolidated revenue of the state.

“A monthly stipend equivalent to the Basic salary of a serving/incumbent Governor in the State for life and which shall be a charge on the Consolidated Revenue Funds of the state

“The Deputy Governor shall enjoy a monthly stipend equivalent to the Basic salary of an incumbent Deputy Governor for life and shall be charged on the Consolidated Revenue Funds of the State.

“A maintenance allowance of N25,000,000.00 for the former governor and the deputy governor is N15,000,000.00 every four years.”

Military finally reopens Banex Plaza in Abuja

The Nigerian military has reopened the popular Banex Plaza in Wuse 2 area of Abuja for business after over a week of siege on the market.

According to report, the plaza resumed operations around 2:30pm on Monday.

Our correspondent reported that the market was sealed by military authorities on May 18, following a violent clash between traders and military personnel.

Trouble started when thugs allegedly beat up some soldiers who had a disagreement with a trader in the plaza.

The trader had reportedly sold a bad phone to someone who invited soldiers.

The police stepped in to resolve the situation, but soldiers later stormed the plaza, forcing traders to shut down immediately.

Human rights activists, including Femi Falana, SAN, civil society organisations, among others had condemned the military action.

378MW Imo Power Plant nears completion, says Minister

The Federal Government has promised accelerated completion of the 378.3 megawatts Egbema Power Plant in Imo State, saying it is currently 70 per cent completed.

The Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, gave the assurance at the weekend during an inspection visit to the power plant, commending the Governor of Imo, Hope Uzodimma, for his dedication to collaborating with the Niger Delta Power Holding Company to complete the power projects in the state.

Accompanied by the Managing Director of the NDPHC, Mr Chiedu Ugbo, the minister praised President Bola Tinubu for signing the 2023 Electricity Act, which allows states to participate in the electricity sector.

Adelabu said the completion of the Egbema power plant and associated transmission projects will improve the electricity supply in Imo State and beyond.

Speaking, Uzodimma pledged to collaborate with the NDPHC to ensure the completion of the plant to improve the electricity supply in the State.

He said the collaboration would ensure the completion of the 378.3MW Egbema Power Plant, along with the 330/33KV switchyard, the Omoku-Egbema-Owerri-Alaoji 330KV DC transmission lines projects, and the Owerri transmission substation expansion project.

“The projects are at various stages with the power plant at 70 per cent completion stage. The collaboration between the Imo State Government and NDPHC aims to enhance electricity supply and energise homes and businesses in Imo State through the completion of the Egbema Power Plant and associated transmission infrastructure,” a statement by Adelabu’s spokesperson, Bolaji Tunji, said on Sunday.

Trinity Old Boys invests over N200m to transform Alma mater …As Sir Nwokeji hosts Trinity Sunday celebration

By Jude Onyenedogha

Trinity High School, Oguta Old Boys Association, Owerri branch said it has invested over N200 million to transform its alma mater to its current modern status.

This disclosure was made by a member of the association, Surveyor Clement Nwabichie while fielding questions from our correspondent during the annual Trinity Sunday celebration which one of the Old Boys, Sir Sabastine Nwokeji hosted at his residence, Area G New Owerri.

“Go to the school and see what we have done. We have renovated the school into a brand new one. We have put in about two hundred million into the school. Very soon, precisely by next month, we will start the fencing”.

Earlier in his address, chairman of the occasion, Sir Ambrose Ejiogu described Trinity High School as “one of the leading schools in its hey daysbut still going through processes of recovering its lost glory courtesy of the efforts of the Old Boys”.

While appreciating Sir Sabastine Nwokeji for always being there for the association, Sir Ejiogu said the old boys which he described as a very strong one has invested a lot towards the transformation of the school, without which the school would have gone into oblivion.

Speaking on his reason for for spending a lot to host the Old Boys for three consecutive times, the host, Sir Sabastine Nwokeji said, “For me, this world is simple world…One day we will all die and go. What will people remember you for? Good or bad.

“These are my school mates. It’s better, the little you have, you share with your colleagues, brothers and Old Boys. It is just sharing, especially on a Trinity Sunday”.

On the essence of the celebration, Chief Nwokeji said the school took its name from the Trinity; God the Father, God the son and God the Holy Spirit, reason they always celebrate the event on every Trinity Sunday yearly.

“While we were in the school, we were observing it and when we left school and became Old Boys, we decided to continue it”.

Meanwhile some senior members of the association who spoke during the get-together, including chairman of the association who spoke through the PRO, Obinna Egbuchulam, the Secretary Barr. Miletus Nlemadim, Eze Prof. Dele Odigbo, among others, poured encomiums on Sir Sabastine Nwokeji for always standing tall for the association at times of need.

They noted that they had challenges for the hosting of the 2024 Trinity Sunday before Sir Nwokeji once again stepped out to feel the gap, adding that the hosting was lavish as different kinds of delicacies and drinks were served, while participants all ate to their satisfaction.

Imo people happy over public hearing on consumer’s Rights Bill

Over the weekend, the Imo State House of Assembly held a public hearing concerning the proposed Consumer’s Rights Protection bill, aimed at fortifying consumer rights within the state.

Held at the State House of Assembly complex, the event drew a diverse array of stakeholders, including consumer rights advocates, business owners, and government officials.

In his opening address, the committee chairman of Commerce and Industry, Hon. Johnleoba Iheonu, representing Ikeduru state constituency, underscored the bill’s necessity for the welfare of Imolites, emphasizing its comprehensive coverage of both consumer and manufacturer rights.

Throughout the hearing, attendees voiced their perspectives on the bill, emphasizing the urgent need for robust consumer protection measures, amidst rampant circulation of counterfeit goods within the state. Concerns were raised regarding product authenticity, defects, and the exploitation of consumers.

Hon. Dominic Ezerioha, chief sponsor of the bill and member representing Oru West state constituency, reaffirmed the committee’s dedication to upholding consumer rights, envisioning the bill as a cornerstone for consumer protection and redress mechanisms in Imo state.

Addressing the assembly, Chief Don Linus Onwukaike, representing the Director General of the Imo State Consumer Protection Council, underscored the bill’s significance in combatting substandard and expired products in the market, aligning with the initiatives of the Uzodimma administration since its inception in 2020.

The introduction of indigenous standard measurement cups, he noted, serves to safeguard consumers against fraudulent practices, ensuring equitable transactions and value for money.

Stakeholders, including High Chief A.I.C Nwachukwu of the Environmental Health Council of Nigeria and a representative from Coca Cola Bottling Company, emphasized the pivotal role of effective regulation and enforcement in fostering fair competition and market integrity.

The public hearing marks a pivotal stride towards the eventual enactment of the Consumer Protection Rights bill, poised for deliberation by the House of Assembly in the coming weeks.

The high point of the event was the general acceptance of the bill by all who came around who describesit as human face bill that will better the lives of Imo people when finally signed into the law by Imo state government.

Assault on EEDC Officials Throws Anambra Community into Darkness

Enugwu Nanka village in Orumba North Local Government Area of Anambra State has been thrown into darkness, following an assault on officials of Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) by an indigene of the community.

An industrialist, Dr. Jacob Enemuo, whose factory is located in the community, lamented that the situation may lead to sack of over 400 employees from his factory if nothing was done.

Enemuo in a petition he sent to the Anambra State Government said that rift within the community, which was being caused by the leadership of the community was responsible for the disconnection of power in the area.

He accused the leadership of the community of shielding the man who attacked the officials.

He said: “For 10 days now, the factory has been closed because power supply has been cut off from the entire village. This is because some people in the community beat up EEDC officials who were on official duty.

“Though the action was wrong, since then, we have made efforts to restore power, but the President General of Nanka Patriotic Union and Ositadinma Development Union, Rev Canon Ifeanyi Ezeike and Mr. Emma Eze obi, respectively have been working to thwart our efforts.”

Enemuo said the attempt to keep the village in darkness may be the plan of the leadership of the community to get at him because he has perpetually stood against their atrocities in the community.

“Now, because they want to get at me, they are crippling the only industry in the village, and putting the livelihood of over 400 staff of the industry in the line. That is not fair.”
He called on Anambra State Governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo, to save Nanka from the grip of the leaders, who he said were being propelled by some powerful individuals in the community.
Attempt to get the reaction of the President-General of the community, Ezeike, was not successful as calls to his mobile phone remained unreachable.
Meanwhile, the EEDC, speaking through its Media and Communications Director, Mr. Emeka Ezeh, exonerated Ezeike, saying that he, in the company of other leaders, have visited a branch of the company in Ekwulobia to plead on behalf of the suspect who damaged their vehicles, and that the matter was being handled.

Anambra ranks lowest in out-of-school children in Nigeria – Soludo

Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State has reaffirmed his government’s dedication to bolstering the education sector within the state.

He highlighted that Anambra boasts the lowest rates of out-of-school children nationwide, a feat attributed to the substantial investments made by his administration in education.

Soludo made the remarks during the 2024 Children’s Day celebration at the Alex Ekwueme Square in Awka on Monday, May 27.

The event featured a march by school children and uniformed organizations, cake cutting, cultural dances, and a fashion parade, among other activities.

Soludo said: “We’re here to celebrate our future, our future and others who were not able to join us here. This is the third time I’ve witnessed Children’s Day since I assumed office, but this is the largest.

“I can see the glorious future of Anambra and Nigeria as we behold their face. We’re deliberately investing in our children, who are our bridge. For skills needed here and exporting them.

“In two years, we’ve employed over 8000 teachers because they’re our greatest asset. Currently, Anambra has the lowest out-of-children in the country. We are targeting making it zero.

“We’re having sleepless nights because of you. Roads will wash away, sky-scrapers will collapse, but investment in children will stand the test of time.”

While commending the teachers for their commitments to training the children, the governor assured that his government would not lower the bar in the recruitment of standard teachers, stressing that Anambra children deserved the best.

“We call on everyone to invest in education because it is everyone’s responsibility. If you can save the cost of your favourite brand of drink, you can buy a pencil for the child. That’s a way of investing in education,” he added.

Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Ify Obinabo urged parents to offer their children the needed parent-child relationship and make their homes more conducive for them to thrive amidst challenges.

“Governor Soludo’s manifesto shows that enhancing the well-being of the Nigerian Child through quality education and skills development of the Nigerian child is possible and achievable to build a livable and prosperous homeland.

“Enhancing the wellbeing of the Nigerian child is not the sole responsibility of government. It requires multi-stakeholders synergy such as parents, and guardians whose major role focuses on creating the needed healthy environment for our children to blossom,” she said.

Kidnapped Akwa-Ibom monarch released on N50m ransom – Police

Paramount Ruler of Mbo Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, HRM Ogwong Okon A. Abang, who was kidnapped in his Ebughu Palace has been released after payment of a reported N50 million ransom.

The State Police Spokesman, ASP Timfon John, confirmed the release of the monarch.

John simply said, “Yes, it’s true” he has been released, but didn’t give any insight as to whether money changed hands.”

According to a community leader, who pleaded anonymity, “The monarch was released early this (Monday) morning and I can tell you the abductors collected 50 Million Naira to release him.

“The community is bitter, especially from the realization that some youths from within were among the kidnappers. We have vowed to get to the bottom of this and bring them to book.

“This whole thing is induced by sheer greed and then envy by some mischievous community stakeholders over the exalted stool the Paramount Rulers occupy. Long may he reign.

“The monarch has been taken to a hospital for proper medicare and his wife who was shot while he was being abducted is recuperating fast and will be discharged soon.”

The abductors struck the palace at about 9pm on 18 May, with roaring gunshots as they dragged the monarch away, leaving his wife, Obonganwan Okon Abang, shot in the leg.

The incident had heightened worries over the escalating insecurity in the state, particularly the killing and kidnapping of important personalities, with the Oro ethnic bloc of the state most vulnerable due to its collapsed road network and the porosity of its waterways.

Emirship: Police assures adequate security in Kano

The Police Command in Kano State on Monday assured the people of Kano State of adequate security in the face the tussle over the throne of Emir of Kano.

Commissioner of Police, Mr Usaini Gumel, gave the assurance during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Kano.

“We are battle ready to deal with any person or group of people tempering with the peaceful atmosphere our state is known for.

“We have the ability and capacity to provide required security measures in our areas of supervision’’, he told NAN.

He warned individuals who intended to bring in thugs into Kano from other parts of the country to have a rethink, saying the command would deal decisively with the situation.

He reminded the public that the Constitution of Nigeria was clear about the responsibility of the police in providing internal security for Nigerians.

“The police will not condone any act that can lead to chaos or violence in Kano State.

“Adequate security personnel have been deployed to arrest anyone who attempts to disrupt the peace or break the law in the state’’, Gumel said.

He reminded the residents of the state that no one was permitted to carry dangerous weapons around the Emir’s palace and Nasarawa, the Emir residence.

“Rigorous stop-and-search and patrols are being conducted across all parts of the dissolved five Emirates’’, he said.

He urged residents to provide credible information to assist the police to respond swiftly to any situation that could breach peace in the state.

Tribunal affirms Ododo as Kogi governor, dismisses forgery allegations

The Kogi State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Abuja, on Monday, has affirmed Usman Ododo as the authentic Governor of Kogi state.

The tribunal dismissed the petition filed by the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and its governorship candidate, Murtala Ajaka.

The verdict was passed by the three-member panel of the tribunal, led by Justice Ado Birnin-Kudu.

According to reports, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had declared the candidate.of the All Progressive Congress (APC), Usman Ododo, as the winner of the keenly contested November 11, 2023 Kogi State Governorship Election.

The state Returning Officer, Prof Johnson Urama, who is the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics) of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, announced Ododo as the winner at 10:23 pm on Sunday, November 12, 2023.

According to the announced results, Ododo polled 446,237 votes, to beat his closest rival, Murtala Ajaka of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), who scored 259,052, while Dino Melaye of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) polled 46,362 votes. However, the petitioners approached the tribunal seeking an overturn of the election results and an order directing INEC to conduct a fresh election in about five LGAs.

If the tribunal agrees with the petitioners to order a rerun, it implies that taxpayers’ money will be used in conducting fresh elections.

Ajaka’s legal team led by Joseph Okutepa(SAN) had challenged the poll on the grounds of alleged forgery, voting and non-compliance to the Electoral Act.

The petitioner called 25 witnesses from the five Local Government Areas including Adavi, and Okene LGAs, and they challenged the results from the disputed polling units.

The petitioners alleged that over-voting occurred in 5 local government areas of Kogi state including Adavi, Okene, Okeyi, and LGAs.

They claimed that Ododo tendered false information to INEC.

However, the APC legal team led by Emmanuel Ukala challenged the competence of the witnesses presented by the petitioner.

Counsel for INEC, Kanu Agabi (SAN) maintained that the witnesses presented by the petitioner are incompetent because “they are not the makers” of the electoral documents submitted as exhibits.

The respondents maintained that the exhibits touching on forgery and overvoting are “mere photocopies” that cannot be relied upon by any court.

But Pius Akubo, who represented the petitioners during one of the proceedings, argued that the allegation that his clients did not call the makers of the exhibits is misleading, adding that the documents are certified true copies from respective institutions including INEC.

Justice Ado Birnin-Kudu held that from the decisions of the Supreme Court on the 2023 presidential and governorship elections, statements of witnesses must be filed along with a petition, not during a petition.

“The petitioners have failed to file their witness statements (of PW1) on oath along with the petition, within the given time,” the judge said while expunging the exhibits tendered by the petitioners.

He added that “the piece of oral evidence made by the petitioner’s witnesses are “hearsay evidence” as they are not the makers of the exhibits tendered before the tribunal.

The tribunal dismissed the petition and affirmed the election of Ododo while holding that the petitioner could not prove that the governor presented a forged certificate.

The judge held that the witnesses presented by the petitioners were not polling unit agents or INEC presiding officers.

Political thugs clash with anti-Abure protesters at LP National Secretariat

Abure

An angry mob suspected to be thugs loyal to the National Chairman of the Labour Party, LP, Julius Abure, on Monday attacked protesters, believed to be from the Edo State chapter, who were at the party’s Abuja national secretariat to demand Abure’s removal.

Trouble started when the anti-Abure protesters stormed the party headquarters in a number of vehicles, wielding placards and chanting solidarity songs.

After some of the protesters stepped out of one of the vehicles, the suspected thugs descended on the vehicles with sticks and other objects, forcing the drivers to take off.

However, armed policemen and operatives of the Department of State Security, DSS, waded in when the thugs started throwing stones into the nearby Secretariat of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, chasing away newsmen who were covering the fracas.

The presence of security officials prevented the situation from further degenerating.

Children’s Day: Tinubu calls for reinforcement of family values, hard work

President Bola Tinubu has called for reinforcement of the family unit as a place where the sacred values of honesty, modesty, hard work and charity are passed down to the children in the country.

The President made this call on Monday, as he celebrated Nigeria’s children, the bearers of the nation’s torch into the future, on the special occasion of Children’s Day.

In a statement issued through his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, the President rejoiced with parents, guardians, and families across the nation while affirming that society was a reflection of each family unit as a collective and urged the preservation of those principles that make the people a wholesome, nurturing, and thriving nation.

He said his administration was sparing no effort in ensuring that Nigeria’s children have a solid footing for the realisation of their dreams.

With increased investments in education, and the recent overhauling of the entire education system to provide both human and material resources for learning, as well as the efforts of the National Commission for Almajiri and Out-of-School Children Education to get the nation’s precious gifts off the streets, the President emphasized that his administration would continue to expand access to qualitative education for all Nigerians.

Tinubu reassured the nation of his commitment to ensuring a safe and secure ambience of learning for the children while improving the standard of education.

I support merger of Labour Party with PDP to make Nigeria great: Peter Obi

Peter Obi says he is open to merging the Labour Party (LP) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

Mr Obi, the Labour Party’s candidate in the 2023 poll, said this during an interview with NoireTV-GlobalBlackTV broadcast Saturday on YouTube, weeks after former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar hosted Mr Obi.

“If the merger is to be able to govern Nigeria properly, unlock all those things that will make Nigeria a better place, I’m for it,” the former Anambra governor said.

“If it’s just a merger for election or state capture, I’m not for it or part of it. I don’t want to be part of anything like that.”

Mr Obi reiterated that he was not desperate to become the president, nor was he seeking to be president for personal ambition, but rather for the well-being of Nigerians.

“I’m not desperate to be president. I’m desperate to see Nigeria work, especially for the poor people, because we have a lot of potential,” added the former PDP presidential running mate.

Reacting to Mr Atiku’s statement of support if the consensus is to produce a South-East president, Mr Obi said, “I commend him, and I’m grateful for his statements, especially where he said he will support me if it (the presidential ticket) goes to the South-East.”

Senate begins public hearing on change of National Anthem

Last week, a bill seeking to make provision for Nigeria to revert to its old national anthem scaled through second reading at the Senate.

The Senate has started a public hearing on an Act to provide for the National Anthem of Nigeria and related matters.

The leader of the Senate, Opeyemi Bamidele, who represented the President of the Senate at the hearing, said the second stanza of the existing national anthem shall be the national prayer.

However, he said if deemed necessary, there will be further consultation on the matter.

In his contribution, Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, said the amendment should not come only by legislative fiat, but should be subjected to a wider consultation.

He stated that the reversal is not out of place but it should involve a wider process to ensure it is a true reflection of the generality of the wishes of all Nigerians.

Meanwhile, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Mike Ozekhome, harped on one of the lines from the previous anthem, which addresses the issue of oppression, while corroborating with the Director General of National Orientation Agency that the change of the nation’s anthem is long overdue.

He further recalled that he had mooted the idea 10 years ago at the 2014 CONFAB through a motion and it was debated by the 490 delegates but ultimately discarded.

According to him, the present Nigerian flag of green white green is too bland and not inspirational compared to that of US and South Africa.

Ozekhome also recalled that he suggested that the name ‘Nigeria’ should be changed’ cause it appeared to be a burden, proposing that the name Nigeria be changed to ‘iregime’.

He believes that the change like has been done in other countries such as The Netherlands, Pakistan, France, Russia, Turkey, Zambia, Zimbabwe and 12 others, is quintessential to development.

A national referendum is key he maintains to holistically solve the issues, asserting again that the slight amendment to the constitution will not solve Nigeria’s problems.

Last week, a bill seeking to make provision for Nigeria to revert to its old national anthem scaled through second reading at the Senate.

It was referred to the Senate Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters to report back to the house in two weeks.

Meanwile, at the House of Representatives, the bill to revert to the old national anthem “Nigeria, We Hail Thee”, was passed.

Imo House Of Assembly Conducts Public Hearing On Bill To Establish CPC

IMO ASSEMBLY

In its quest to ensure that Imo Citizens are protected from harmful products and services, the Imo State House of Assembly has carried out public hearing on the bill for a Law to establish the Imo State Competition and Consumer Protection Council, Provide for the Protection of the Consumer disputes and for connected purposes, 2024.

The public hearing was organized by the House of Assembly Committee on Commerce and Industry at the Assembly Complex, Owerri.

Addressing the gathering, the House Committee Chairman, Chief Johnleoba Iheoha stated that the purpose of the event was to allow members of the public take critical examination of the bill by making suggestions and input with a view to making it acceptable by all, when passed.

Chief Iheoha who is the representative of Ikeduru State Constituency, further informed that the bill if eventually becomes a law would protect consumers from bad products, eliminate hazardous and sub-standard goods from the markets as well as protect the interest of consumers from goods and services.

The Chief Sponsor of the Bill and member for Oru West State Constituency in the Imo State House of Assembly Chief Domnic Ezerioha hinted that it took him time to research on the bill to ensure that the bill achieves its purpose when it finally becomes a law, adding that the bill before now was a federal law which the House wants to domesticate for the benefits of the people of the State.

Chief Ezerioha further emphasized that the federal law has only one segment which tends to protect only the consumers’ right, but that on the course of domesticating it, the bill was segmented into two parts, the Competition And Consumers Protection Council which gave room for people who want to embark on production of goods to freely do so in order to provide alternative choices to consumers.

The Oru West Lawmaker also explained that the bill has 9 Acts, 97 Sections and other sub-sections which are geared towards making the life of every Imo Citizen simple and worth living.

Mbaise Europe Diagnostic Center Project kicks off

By Vivian Iwu

The forum of Mbaise people in not less than 57 Countries of Europe known as “Mbaise Europe”, has kicked of the siting of a Diagnostic Center Project in Akuwa Ibeku Okwuato in Aboh Mbaise Local Government Area, of Imo State, Nigeria, West Africa, with the donation of over ten plots of land by the Traditional Ruler of Ibeku Autonomous Community, HRH Eze Onyekachi Enyinnaya Ukpabi, his Cabinet and entire people of Akuwa Ibeku.

Revd. Canon Augustine Nwaekwe, Board Chairman Mbaise Europe, explained that the forum is none Governmental avenue the Mbaise Diaspora men and women wishes to make positive impact in the lives of the people at home.

He emphasized their readiness and determination to carry out the project for the good of the people, pointing out that Mbaise Europe was very happy to be having the negotiation with the people of Akuwa Ibeku with the hope that it will bear good fruit.

The Reverend Gentleman commended Eze Onyekachi Enyinnaya Ukpabi (Eku Obajiubi 1 of Ibeku Autonomous Community) and his Cabinet on the smooth talk that resulted in the Land Donation and the eventful acquisition.

He equally thanked everyone who made it possible, including Ogbaturu Enyi, and His Worship, Bar. Emperor Iwuala who were on ground to witness the ceremony.

On his part, Evangelist John Franco Onyenali Onyeoziri, who is the Mediator in the Project, explained that the project would turn the Area into a Tourism Site, promising that the Project will bear much fruit in Ibeku, Mbaise and Imo State in General.

Evangelist Franco who was visibly elated explained that as one of the Board of Director’s member, he got wind of the plan for the Project and announced that his people of Ibeku would be delighted to donate the Land, He emphasized that the Mbaise Community in general and Ibeku in particular are bound to thank God for the Project because it is of immense benefit.

“It is going to be a Tourism destination. It will create Job Opportunities, it’s going to appreciate the Land value of the Area. People are going to troop down here to build Schools, businesses, factories and many Developmental Project to accelerate the development of Ibeku with this particular Project”.

On his part, Ogbaturu Enyi na Mbaise, who was at the Ceremony on dual capacity as a member of Mbaise Europe and as a representative of Ezuruezu Mbaise in Diaspora, thanked Eze Onyekachi Enyinnaya Ukpabi.

According to him, Ezuruezu Mbaise and Mbaise Europe are proud of Eze Onyekachi Enyinnaya Ukpabi, describing him as one of their Reference Ezes.

He promised that Ezuruezu Mbaise in Diaspora are willing to play any part assigned to it and would not disappoint.

Home delivery of passports to start in June -Minister

Nigerians no longer have to travel to the immigration office to obtain their passports, as home delivery of passports is set to begin in June.

This development was announced by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, on Friday when he inspected the electronic gates at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport’s new terminal in Abuja.

Tunji-Ojo said the delivery will not include every location to avoid overloading and damaging the system.

He said the Nigerian Immigration Service would start home delivery in Lagos, Port Harcourt, Kano, and Abuja.

He stated that for Nigerians in the diaspora, the home delivery service would initially launch in the United States and the United Kingdom, with preliminary testing to ensure its effectiveness.

The minister explained that the delay in implementing home delivery was due to a lack of data centres.

He noted that the NIS had been relying on a private company’s data centre and emphasised the need for a permanent solution to this problem.

“We have completed the whole solution but when we came on board, we realised that the data centre was not really there. We were leveraging on a private company data centre and we appreciate them for that assistance. We think that it is better to create a permanent solution to problems rather than quick fixes.

“We could have done it in February but we had to build our data centre from scratch to be able to keep the integrity of our data and national security intact. This is more important. It is disgraceful that NIS is 61 years old and NIS is a custodian of biometric data of Nigeria and we believe that NIS should be in charge of the data of Nigeria.

“It is not acceptable that this data is domiciled in a third party and that is why we have been able to do this,” he said.
H added that the data centre has been constructed and the passport delivery issue has been resolved.

“It is about national security and I can assure you that It is comparable with anyone you can find anywhere in the world.

“We have built the data centre, sorted the passport delivery solution and done the final presentation in terms of technology deliverables and the tracking solution which will all be embedded in the application we have so we do not create multiple lines of failure,” the minister said.

Speaking further, the minister stated that the final presentation of the electronic visa has been completed.
He added that it will reduce the visa processing time from 72 hours to 48 hours.

“The passport automation process is almost complete,” he added.

This announcement comes nine months after the minister initially declared that home delivery of passports to Nigerians would commence by February 2024.

In October, Tunji-Ojo stated that starting in February 2024, Nigerians would be able to have their passports delivered to their homes, offices, or any other location of their choice.

Ohanaeze youths propose ranching laws to end farmers/herders crisis

The youth wing of the apex Igbo sociocultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, has advocated progressive ranching laws in the Southeast and other parts of Nigeria to permanently address the constant farmers herders crisis.

The acting national youth leader of Ohanaeze, Mazi Chukwuma Okpalaezeukwu, made the call during a briefing at the just-concluded Igbo Youth Leaders and Stakeholders Convention that was held last Friday at Nike Lake Hotel, Enugu.

Okpalaezeukwu commended the Enugu Assembly for pioneering the enactment of public ranching bill and urged other States, especially in the Southeast to toe the same path.

Okpalaezeukwu commended President Bola Tinubu for appointing a vibrant youth leader, Comrade Ayodele Olawande as the Minister of State for Youth Development, whom he said participated in the convention.

“We appreciate the Hon minister of State for Youth Development for his immense intellectual contributions towards the success of the convention.

“Finally, convention unanimously passed a vote of confidence on the President- General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Chief Dr Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, and the acting National Youth leader Mazi. Chukwuma Okpalaezeukwu for the good works they are doing for the Igbo nation.

“We salute the courage of the governors of the Southeast in curbing the menace of insecurity in the region, however, we urge them to inculcate the Igbo youth in the security structure of their various states” he stated.

The Ohanaeze youth leader also told journalists that the convention acknowledged the unparallel patriotic contributions of Igbo businessmen and investors in diverse fields of the economy since Inception

He, however stated that they seriously condemned the continued unwarranted destruction of Igbo businesses and investments across Nigeria by state and non-state actors.

Why Nnamdi Kanu said Nigerian courts can’t try him – Lawyer

Nnamdi Kanu

Barrister Aloy Ejimakor, the Special Counsel to Nnamdi Kanu, the detained Leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra has revealed the reason why he said no Nigerian court can try him.

Recall that Kanu on Monday, said no court in Nigeria can try him, after the Federal High Court, Abuja, dismissed his request for bail or to be moved from the Department of State Services custody to a prison or house arrest.

The IPOB leader also noted that any court that attempted to try him would be committing terrorism.

He said, “Terrorism Prohibition and Prevention Act said I cannot be tried in Nigeria. That is the law of Nigeria. I can never be tried in any court of law in Nigeria. That is what the law says.

“Anyone standing in trial or coming to try me is a terrorist. That is what the law says, not me. Section 2, Subsection 3F of the Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act, that is what it says.

“Any court continuing to try me is committing an act of terrorism.”

Ejimakor, via an X post on Saturday, backed his client and explained that Kanu made the assertion on Monday because there are two international tribunal decisions against his arrest.

“When Mazi Nnamdi Kanu says that he’s not subject to trial, here’s one reason: There are 2 international tribunal decisions against his arrest, detention and trial which are binding on Nigeria by virtue of Section 12 of the Constitution,” Ejimakor wrote.

“And this is just one reason. There is more,” he added.

Imo govt sponsors free Hepatitis B,C screenings

By Ezinne Ude

Imo First Lady Barr Chioma Uzodimma has promised to sponsor ten thousand individuals for free screening across the 27 local government areas of the State.

Chief Barr. Chioma Uzodimma made the promise when she flagged off the Hepatitis C elimination and Hepatitis B control programme in the state at the premises of Imo State Primary Health Care Development Agency, Owerri.

Mrs. Uzodinma who is the Founder, GoodHope Flourish Foundation stated

“This initiative is a reflection of our commitment to public health. Hepatitis B and C lead to cancer death. The disease is hundred times infectious than HIV”.

The First Lady said, “let’s provide care and support to those infested.

The First Lady who’s passionate about the well-being and welfare of Imo citizens said, “disease which can be eliminated, is a viral infection that primarily affects the liver. Let’s create a healthier Imo by tackling the disease”, First Lady submitted.

The Commissioner for Health, Imo State, Dr. Prosper Success said, “The program will provide access, improve medical care, provide data and provision of free drugs”.

Speaking after the event, the Commissioner, ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Hon. Lady Nkechinyere Ugwu extolled the Governor’s wife, Barr Mrs Chioma Uzodinma for the laudable initiative. She urged all and sundry to take serious, the screening exercise which is made available by Her Excellency.

Announcer Express Reporter Chinenye Chukwuma loses father

Announcer Express Newspaper reporter Mrs Chinenye Chukwuma has lost her dearly father Chief Ezinna Marcellus Onyemauchechukwu Iwuagwu, aged 77 years.

In a press release by the family, late Chief Marcellus Iwuagwu who died on Tuesday 9th April 2024 at Madonna hospital (Emeakaraoha), Ihitte/Uboma LGA after a brief illness was conferred with chieftaincy title as Akaekpuchi Onwa 1 of Ikperejere by His Royal Highness Eze G.C Ogbenna Aro ji 1 of Ikperejere of the blessed memory on 26th December 2021, he was also conferred with Ezinna bu Ugwu title by CMO, Christ the King Parish Ikperejere on 18th of June 2023.

Late “MC General” as fondly called by many before his death held several position, like Chairman Uwabunkeonye age grade, Chairman Umura and Umunwagwu kindred, Chairman Group 4 CKC Ikperejere, presently as interim Chairman Umura Ikperejere.

He also belonged to Uboma Chief in Council, Ikperejere Chief in council and Ikpe-wu-kpe Chief in council.

Late Chief Marcellus Iwuagwu also retired as Chief security officer at Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Ihitte/Uboma LGA.
According to the release, the burial arrangement will soon be announced.

Late Chief Marcellus Iwuagwu who died at the age of 77, is survived by his wife, Ezinne Lolo Anna Iwuagwu, Mrs Ijeoma Opara daughter, Mrs Chinenye Chukwuma Nwokeji daughter, Mrs Okwuchi Ogbenna daughter, Mr Marcellus Anayo Iwuagwu (Jr) son, Rev Father Anthony Nnadozie Iwuagwu son, Comrade Ambassador Michael Chimezie Iwuagwu (Nze Vidic) son, and 9 grand children.

Imo SSG, Iwu, charges students on good moral

The Secretary to the Government of Imo State, Chief Cosmas Iwu (middle) in a group photograph with the Executives of NAISS, UNN Chapter, shortly after the courtesy visit to the SGI

A call has gone to undergraduates and post graduate students of lmo state origin studying at different Institutions of learning to be good ambassadors of the state, by imbibing the virtues of discipline, respect to constituted authorities and shun cultism, exam malpractice , other social vices or any act that could be inimical to their academic pursuit as future leaders.

The Secretary to the State Government, Chief Cosmas Iwu, made the call , when the executive members of the National Association of Imo State Students, studying at the University of Nigeria Nsukka, paid him a courtesy visit in his office.

Chief Iwu who enjoined them to imbibe the spirit of humility and discipline in life, further commended the students for uniting themselves as Imo indigenes and their brother’s keepers, especially in their concerted effort to showcase and preserve the lgboman’s cultural heritage from going into extinction.

The Secretary to the Government of Imo State, Chief Cosmas Iwu (middle) in a group photograph with the Executives of NAISS, UNN Chapter, shortly after the courtesy visit to the SGI

The SGI, who recalled that Governor Hope Uzodimna recently delivered a world class lecture, with the theme: “Why Universities Should Lead the Way to a New Nigeria”, during the 52nd Convocation Ceremony of the University of Nigeria Nsukka, further described the Governor as a versatile and detribalized leader, and advised the students to emulate the leadership qualities of the Governor as future leaders.

He assured them of his support at their forthcoming Cultural Day Celebration slated to hold on the 6th of July, 2024, at the University.

Earlier in his speech, the President of the Association, Comrade Nwadinigwe Akachukwu Fortune, who congratulated the SGI on his recent reappointment also extolled his leadership qualities and said that they were on the visit to intimate him that the Association unanimously chose him as their Patron.

Speaking further, Comrade Nwadinigwe, said that they were also on the visit to formally invite the SGI and seek his support for their forthcoming Cultural day celebration, with the theme:” Imo(Igbo) Culture: An identity/ heritage not to be lost.”

According to the president, the aim of the event is to bridge the gap between the students and their cultural heritage, by way of inculcating, promoting and preserving Igbo cultural heritage amongst the students.

Imo people to Uzodimma: Ban trailers on major roads during day time

By Chikamnayo Imo

Last week Saturday’s urgly incident at the strategic Imo State University junction, Owerri, appears to have forced people of the State to seek Governor Hope Uzodimma’s ban on lorries from operating on roads within the day time.

This followed the fatal accident that occurred at the area, on 18th May, 2024, where over fifteen people lost their lives when a trailer failed its break and veered off its lane.

Worried by this unfortunate news, Statesman reporter sought the opinion of a cross- section of Owerri residents on what Government should do to curtail road accidents across the State.

A lecturer in the Department of Microbiology, Imo State University, Prof. Joseph Uwaezuoke described the accident as an unfortunate incident.

The former Head of Department pleaded with the Governor, Hope Uzodimma to limit the operation of heavy -duty trucks on day time.

“Government`s intervention to the alarming statistics of road accidents, especially those caused by reckless driving and activities of the lorries”.

A student, Jane Chukwuma, told Statesman that she was yet to recover from the rude shock of the incidence.

“I was there when the accident occurred. I was at the other side of the road buying a recharged card. Imo Government should construct a fly-over bride at the IMSU junction. Accidents are occurring on regular basis.

A food vendor, at the IMSU junction, Mrs Chioma Amadi, commended the present administration for the road bumps it constructed along Okigwe road since the accident occurred and however opined, that that measure is still not enough to reduce accidents that always occur on that road.

“Journalist, this road has claimed many lives of both the young, middle-aged and old people. What this junction requires now is a befitting Round-about”.

Speaking, A commercial bus driver, Mr. Inem Koko, from Akwa-Ibom State, said, lorries are supposed to be prohibited by the governor, suggesting from 12am to 4 am.

On whether Imo State government has plans to do so, it could not be established as at the time of filing this report because the Commissioner for Transportation was not on seat when Our correspondent visited the office.

Nigerian Police are not corrupt, says Imo CP

The Commissioner of Police in Imo, Aboki Danjuma, has said that the alleged corrupt practices in the Nigerian Police are unjustifiable and without good reason.

Mr Danjuma made the remark at a citizens’ engagement on police reform organised by the CLEEN Foundation, a Civil Society Organisation, (CSO), on Friday in Owerri.

Mr Aboki, represented by an Assistant CP, Mr Edwin Nkpa, said that irrespective of the prevailing challenges, such as poor funding and the lack of adequate training, police officers must remain committed to the tenets of accountability and trust.

“There’s no reason to justify corruption and extortion because, irrespective of whatever challenges there may be, the police is built on the tenets of accountability, trust and professionalism,’’ he said.

In a keynote address, a Professor of Criminology at the University of Jos, Etannibi Alemika, called for serious police reform in the country.

According to him, Nigerians are no longer satisfied with the overall conduct and character of policemen in the country.
Speaking on the theme: “Past Police Reform Efforts in Nigeria: Gains and Pitfalls,” Alemika said that the dream for a reformed police would be unrealistic in an unhealthy political system.

He urged Nigerians to demand education, healthcare, employment and social fulfillment to reduce the burden of criticism of the police.

“The quality of the police is largely dependent on the quality of governance and for this reason, you cannot have a good police in a bad political system,’’ he said.

Earlier in an address of welcome, the Executive Director of CLEEN Foundation, Gad Peter, said that the event became necessary, following observations of a growing disconnect between the police and the communities they serve.

He said that issues, such as excessive use of force, lack of accountability and inadequate training, have eroded public trust and confidence in Nigeria’s law enforcement agencies.

Mr Peter called for comprehensive and sustainable reforms, capable of “transforming our police force into a more effective, transparent and community-oriented service within the context of the South-East“.

Among the participants at the meeting were representatives of the Nigerian Army and Nigerian Security and Civil Defense Corps as well as CSOs and the media.

Final year student commits suicide for failing one course

A final-year student of Ebonyi State University, (EBSU), Abakaliki, simply identified as miss Favour Ugwuka has reportedly committed suicide.

It was learnt that the deceased committed suicide in her hostel at the Ishieke Campus of the University in Abakaliki.

Further investigations revealed that Favour, a final year student in the Department of English passed all her courses but repeatedly failed a particular course, whose lecturer had vowed she would never pass.

In a melancholic video seen online by a woman said to be the deceased’s mother, blamed a lecturer for making her daughter commit suicide.

According to the woman, who was seen lamenting in the video, “Dr Enyi said he is the best, that nobody can teach like him. He should come and carry my daughter who has committed suicide.”

Also, a graduate of the Institution who identified himself as Rex Nwome claimed that the girl committed suicide because she had been failing the particular course.

He said, “Favour was my classmate and a best friend to me in the English Department. The above-mentioned Lecturer did vow never to allow Favour to graduate.

“You could imagine where she later passed all the courses except that of the Lecturer. She had to pay another extra year’s tuition fee to rewrite the Course.

“Unfortunately the man failed her again. What resulted in this intense depression is the latest NYSC names that were recently shortlisted, and her name wasn’t there.”

He added, “The girl suffered a lot of depression because she was only left wandering about in EBSU seeking for help. She was very desperate to graduate and serve. This and many more of the disgusting stories resulted in this suicide mission.

“I wish she didn’t go this far to end her life. R. I. P Ugwuka Favour till we meet to part no more.”

The Ebonyi State Police Command confirmed the incident on Thursday.

The Command’s spokesperson, DSP Joshua Ukandu, told newsmen that the matter was reported to the Headquarters.

He said, “Yes, the Command received the report of suicide by a female student.”

Contracted on phone, the accused Lecturer, Dr. Enyi C. Enyi of the Department of English, Ebonyi State University, debunked the claim by one Rex Nwomeh that his (Enyi) action or inaction was responsible for the death of Miss Favour.

Security agents pick another journalist in Abuja

Security agents have arrested the Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of an Online newspaper, Globalupfront Newspaper, MaduOnuorah in Abuja.

Onuorah was whisked away by suspected Police operatives around 6pm from his residence in Lugbe, Abuja in two Sienna buses.

He was arrested in the presence of his wife and children who fruitlessly demanded from the police why they were arresting the head of the family.

They seized Onuorah’s phones, completely cutting him off from communication with people, including family members.

According to a statement by the Management, Globalupfront Newspapers (Online), the editor was not allowed to contact his lawyer or any of his relations before he was whisked away to the Lugbe police station.

The statement reads: “Nigerian authorities again moved against journalists in the Country on Wednesday, May 22, 2024 as the Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of the Globalupfront Newspaper (Online), Mr. Madu Onuorah was whisked away by men of the Nigerian Police Force at about 6pm by  ten fully-armed policemen who stormed his residence in Lugbe, Abuja, in two Sienna buses.

“To make sure Mr. Onuorah did not get attention or bail, the policemen who arrested him, though not of the Lugbe Police Station, simply dumped him at the Station and left no traces for friends and family members to reach them.

“The Management of Globalupfront Newspapers states as follows: That the Police should release Mr. MaduOnuorah immediately and unconditionally.

“That Mr. Onuorah is an experienced Journalist, former Abuja Bureau Chief of The Guardian Newspaper, former Managing-Director of The AUTHORITY Newspaper, who operates within the ambit of the law.

“That anybody who has any issue against Mr. Onuorah should approach the law court and not turn the Nigerian Police into a Gestapo outfit that bullies a man in the presence of his wife and children.

Bank of Industry, Uzodimma partner to enhance Imo citizens businesses

The Bank of Industry (BOI) has shown interest in partnering with the government of Sen. Hope Uzodimma of Imo State for the purpose of enhancing the economic wellbeing and businesses of the citizens.

The Bank make the commitment on Thursday in Owerri, the Imo State capital, when the Managing Director/ Chief Executive Officer of BOI, Dr. Olasupo Olusi, paid a working visit with his key officials to Governor Uzodimma in Government House.

While receiving Dr. Olusi and his team, Governor Uzodimma assessed the role Bank of Industry has been playing in recreating the economy of the country, particularly the challenge posed by unemployment and lack of jobs among the teeming young men and women, noting that he could not but accept the olive branch extended to him to partner with the Bank.

The Governor said the various policies of BOI help to stimulate the economy of the country create jobs for the people and also serves as an enabling environment to reduce cost of goods.

He commended the management of the Bank for the good job they are doing and urged them to ensure that Imo State benefits from the diligence of the Bank’s contribution to national economy.

Governor Uzodimma said he was not in doubt they are “willing partners” hence the State will cooperate with them.

“The State can never say no to the initiative which you have rolled out and which clearly seems to be the solution to the cancer of unemployment in the country, targeted at reducing the crime rate and all manners of criminality in the country.”

He said the Bank’s visit is going to be a new partnership and that Imo State will not hesitate to accept it, but will only define the basis to which they operate.
Governor Uzodimma specifically told Dr. Olusi that “Imo State wants to benefit from the empowerment programmes,” given that “the manufacturers are crying over the cost of production which is too high, just as the middle and low income earners are also crying.”

“So, anything that will act as incentive to reduce the cost of accessing money will be a very good welcome idea.”

Furthermore, the Governor emphasised on how the Bank will assist to encourage enhancement of the local economy, promising that his government will be willing to support the private sector business operators by way of guarantees and issuance of indemnities to enable genuine owners and private business owners access funds.

“What the people need is encouragement, guidance and proper documentation, like the artisans,” he enthused and added that “BOI is like the password to open the business system in the State,” which he said, is filled with huge traffic in human and material things, including boisterous tourism potentials.

As a demonstration of his commitment to the partnership proposal, the Governor directed the Commissioner for Commerce, Trade and Investment, Dr. Chika Abazu, to liaise with the team to ensure that some of the requests of the Bank that are available and affordable are properly dealt with immediately.

Earlier, Dr Olusi told Governor Uzodimma that he came with his management team to “explore the opportunities in Imo State and help drive the economic growth of the State.”

He informed that there are mutual areas of collaboration which he thought they needed to come and identify and also discuss opportunities for future engagements with the State.

According to him, BOI is desirous to be a strong partner with Imo State as regards development.

He said to do so requires the Bank’s strong base in Imo, hence the visit to discuss and be assured of where they can position their operation in Owerri, having seen and realised that Governor Uzodimma is a strong ally.

He thanked the Governor for making Imo State conducive for private businesses to thrive as well as his promise to readily provide reasonable marching funds to support willing genuine businesses.

Present at the visit were the Chief of Staff, Barr Nnamdi Anyaehie, the Commissioner for Commerce, Trade and Investment, Dr Chika Abazu and other Government officials.

Pupil beaten to coma by teacher dies

A pupil of the Landmark International School, Mgbakwu in Awka North Local Government Area of Anambra State, Henry Okonkwo, who was reportedly beaten to a coma by a teacher has died.

It was gathered that the boy gave up the ghost in the early hours of Wednesday.

It was reported that a 30-year-old teacher at the school, Faith Nwonye, was arrested for allegedly beating the eight-year-old pupil into a coma, on Monday.

Nwoye had earlier been invited by the Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ngozi Chuma-Udeh, to explain what led to the brutalisation of the child on Monday, May 20, 2024.

Chuma-Udeh had expressed sadness over the development, lamenting that the chances of the victim’s survival currently in admission to a hospital are 20 per cent, according to the medical doctor.

She said the school was running illegally, describing the development as a crime running an illegal school in the state, as well as beating a child, the commissioner warned that perpetrators were doing so at their peril.

The teacher was invited alongside the school’s Proprietor in which the incident happened, Mrs Promise Ilo.

The development led to the temporary shutting down of the school while an investigation was said to have begun.

The teacher who admitted flogging the child, however, stated that the flogging was not as severe as the picture was painted.

The matter was handed over to the police for investigation, while the child was in the intensive care unit of the hospital, from where he later gave up the ghost in the early hours of Wednesday.

Taking to her verified Facebook wall on Thursday, the commissioner lamented the death of the boy, saying he was a boy like any other, with hopes and aspirations.

She wrote, “He was a boy like any other, with hopes and aspirations. He went to school for a better future but met a gruesome death at the hands of the people who were supposed to help him achieve his life ambition.

“A quack teacher in an illegal school bludgeoned him to death. We mourn a life nipped in the bud! We mourn Henry ChukwuemekaOkonkwo! We mourn and we seek justice.”

Gov Yusuf reappoints Sanusi as Emir of Kano, orders ex-monarchs 48 hours to vacate seats

Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has approved the reappointment of Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II as Emir of Kano under the new laws.

The governor has given former emirs 48 hours to vacate their palaces and hand over Emirate Council properties to the Commissioner of Local Government, who also serves as State Deputy Governor.

Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State has signed the Kano Emirates Bill 2024 into law, repealing the 2019 Emirate Councils Law that altered the state’s over 1000-year history.

By signing the bill, the governor declared that the 2019 law has been repealed and is now history.

The signing was attended by the Speaker of the State Assembly, IsmailaFalgore, Deputy Governor AminuAbdussalam, Secretary to the State Government AbdullahiBaffaBichi and others.

The State Assembly has fulfilled one of its constitutional roles by signing the bill into law.

Abacha’s failed Bank Tribunal Chairman, Justice Idajili is dead

The chairman of the defunct Failed Bank Tribunal set up by the government of late General Sani Abacha, Justice Steven Sado Idajili, has died at the age of 82.

The jurist from Dekina Local Government Area in Kogi State became notable for his significant role in the notorious Failed Bank Tribunal, responsible for detaining numerous bank executives.

He was also involved in a seven-man panel set up by the then Kogi State Chief Judge, Justice Nasir Ajanah, to investigate gross misconduct allegations against Deputy Governor, Elder Simon Achuba, resulting in his impeachment.

He served as the chairman of the Grievance Redress Committee (GRC), established by the Kogi State project coordinator of the Agro-Processing Productivity Enhancement and Livelihood Improvement Support Project.

Until his passing, he held the position of secretary for the Kogi State Retired Judges Association.

According to a family statement signed by Francis Idajili, a Christian Wake will take place on Wednesday, June 12, in Lokoja, with interment on Thursday at Efakwu Egume in Dekina Local Government Area of Kogi State.

The statement also mentioned that a Valedictory Court Session will take place on Thursday, June 13, at the Chief Judge’s Chambers, High Court of Justice, Lokoja.

Confusion at APC National Headquarters as hoodlums attack anti-Ganduje protesters

There was chaos at the national headquarters of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abuja on Thursday as suspected thugs attacked some protesting members of the North Central APC midway through their protest.

The protesters had stormed the party secretariat to demand the resignation of the APC National Chairman, Abdullahi Ganduje, and allow the leadership seat previously occupied by Abdullahi Adamu to return to the North Central.

The protesters appealed to President Bola Tinubu and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, to help influence the peaceful transition of the party chairmanship seat back to their region.

However, hoodlums stormed the party secretariat while the protesters were chanting solidarity songs and displaying banners that read, ‘Return APC National Chairmanship to North Central’ and ‘Dr. Ganduje, kindly resign to face your prosecution in Kano’.

Speaking to journalists after the protesters regrouped a few blocks away from the party’s secretariat, Plateau State Coordinator of the North Central APC Stakeholders, Hamisu Suleiman, expressed displeasure over the disruption of their protest.

He said, “We came here only to be attacked by thugs sponsored by the party. They did not only beat us, they stripped us of the banners and drove our people away from the APC secretariat. Today, we are here to protest the unfair treatment meted out to people of the North Central. This is because the national chairmanship of the APC was mistakenly given to Dr Abdullahi Ganduje.

“We are therefore calling the attention of our dear President Bola Tinubu to correct the anomaly. We know that he will listen to us. The APC chairman position is supposed to be zoned according to the constitution of the party and the same constitution confers the position on us. Unfortunately, it was zoned to the North West and we will not accept it.

“We are here for justice and justice must be served. I am calling the attention of all the stakeholders of the party to return our mandate. This is why we are protesting here today. It is our right and nobody can take it away from us.”

Also speaking, the Nasarawa State chairman of North Central Forum, Sani Jigas, appealed to the governors of their zone to mount pressure on the president during their planned stakeholders meeting on Saturday.

He said, “This is our mandate. It is well known to everybody. It is well known to everybody that there is a consensus at the national convention that the APC chairmanship should be zoned to the North Central. We are still agitating for that.

“We are not afraid of their thugs. We will remain here until justice is done. We are also calling on our governors because we are aware of the meeting of North Central governors and stakeholders in Lafia by next week.”

Binance Executive, Gambaryan, collapses in Court

A dramatic scene unfolded at a Federal High Court in Abuja on Thursday when Tigran Gambaryan, a detained executive of Binance, suddenly slumped in court due to alleged ill health.

This incident occurred shortly after Justice Emeka Nwite called the matter for trial continuation.

As the case was called by the court registrar, Gambaryan failed to step forward to the dock from the back row seat where he was seated.

Justice Nwite then inquired about the whereabouts of the second defendant (Gambaryan), and one of the lawyers in the defense team, who was sitting beside him, assisted him to the dock.
However, as they walked slowly to the dock, Gambaryan fell down, and the lawyer helped him sit in the front row seat.
Gambaryan’s lawyer, Mark Mordi, Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), explained to the court that his client had been indisposed and that a written application letter had been filed to notify the court of his failing health.
He stated, “My lord, the case may not certainly proceed today.”
Throughout the proceeding, Gambaryan rested on the arm of the seat where he was sitting, appearing visibly unwell.
Recall that Justice Nwite had earlier dismissed Gambaryan’s bail application on May 16, citing that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had established that the defendant, who is currently being remanded at Kuje Correctional Centre, would likely jump bail if granted.
Additionally, the alleged tax evasion charge filed by the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) against Binance Holdings Limited and Gambaryan could not proceed on Wednesday due to his absence in court.

Amid rowdy session Reps pass bill to adopt old anthem, “Nigeria we hail thee”

HOUSE OF REPS

The House of Representatives has passed a bill to adopt the old National Anthem despite opposition from some lawmakers.

The bill sponsored by the Majority Leader, Julius Ihonvbere, was debated for a second reading and rushed through a third reading amid opposition from some lawmakers.

Leading the debate on the bill, Mr Ihonvbere said the content of the old anthem is far better than the current one.

Speaking against the bill, the Minority Leader, Kingsley Chinda said the anthem should not be a thing of priority to Nigerians.

While opposing the bill, Mr Chinda said the old anthem was composed by colonialists and adopting it would mean going back.

“For every law, there must be a spirit to it. If we are asked what is the essence of this law, I would talk about history.

“What does this old national anthem represent? This history dates back to colonialism. We dropped it because we wanted an Anthem to remove us from colonialism. The old anthem was composed by foreigners,” he said.

Following the debate, the bill was put to vote by Deputy Speaker, Ben Kalu who presided over the session, however, the “nay” voices appeared louder, yet the presiding officer called the vote in favour of “ayes”.

This ruling generated complaints from lawmakers, however, the Deputy Speaker insisted on the ruling.

Amid the opposition, the Deputy Speaker rushed the motion through.

FG approves N110bn capital for youth investment — Bio-Ibrahim

The Minister of Youth Development, Dr Jamila Bio-Ibrahim, says the Federal Executive Council has approved N110 billion capital to startups and early growth stage businesses for youths.

Bio-Ibrahim said this in Abuja on Thursday at the ministerial sectoral update of the present administration.

The minister said that “the approval is for startups and early growth stage businesses via restructured Nigeria Youth Investment Fund ( NYIF).”

She added that the ministry was into partnership with Bank of Industry (BoI) to set up a ‘Next Gen’ Bank to nurture youth entrepreneurs with loans and business support.

“We have approval for the establishment of the Presidential Initiative on Youth Clusters in agriculture, manufacturing and ICT.

“We have 146,998 beneficiaries of targeted vocational, social inclusion, technology, agriculture, entrepreneurship training,” Bio-Ibrahim said.
According to her, the ministry has commenced robust NYSC reforms, including skills building to better position youth corps members.

She noted that the mandate of the ministry was to formulate, implement, monitor and evaluate policies and programmes that promote youth development and empowerment, and wealth creation.

Others, she said, are wellbeing, excellence, national unity, and sustainable development, with the ultimate goal of empowering young Nigerians to reach their full potential and contribute positively to the nation’s growth and development.

She reiterated the ministry’s determination to reposition the country’s youths to thrive and catalyse economic development.

Bio-Ibrahim said the ministry has concluded plans to do data harmonisation, analytics, performance management and predictive analytics for prioritisation.

“We will strengthen inter-government collaboration and foster development of existing and new private sector partnerships.

“We will also have media activation to leverage online, social, visual channels for sustained communication and reorientation,” she said.

According to her, some of the ministry’s targets are to reduce youth unemployment rate, increase youths with global market demand skills and increase youth participation in social and economic development.

Absenteeism: Uzodimma directs Perm Secs, Parastatals, Agencies’ Heads to commence daily roll call of workers

Imo State Governor, Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma has directed Permanent Secretaries, Heads of Parastatals, Agencies of government to commence daily roll call of workers.

Governor’s directive is to check the excesses of some civil servants who have the habit of absenting themselves from duty on Mondays and other days.

The directive was contained in Imo State Government Announcement released on Monday by the Commissioner for Information, Public Orientation, and Strategy, Hon. Declan Emelumba .

According to the Commissioner, governor’s directive to the Permanent Secretaries and Heads of Parastatals and Agencies of government, is to ensure that those who disobey the directive suffer the consequences.

He explained that the governor has directed that any civil servants, who absents himself /herself from duty on Mondays and other days will lose his/her salary, in addition to other punishments that many be recommended against him or her.

The statement from Hon. Emelumba further said: “The government of Imo State has observed with dismay that some civil servants, for inexplicable reasons, absent themselves from duties, especially, on Mondays. This is totally unacceptable, moreover, since such civil servants neither obtain permission, nor have authorization of their superiors to absent from duty, thereby, making their conduct illegal and unprofessional. Consequently, the government will henceforth view such a rascally conduct as a direct challenge to its authority which will attract sanctions.”

CBN raises interest rate to 26.25% amid rising inflation

The Central of Nigeria Monetary Policy Committee has raised interest rates by 150 basis points to 26.25 per cent from 24.75 per cent in March to tackle rising inflation.

CBN Governor, Olayemi Cardoso disclosed this on Tuesday at the 295th MPC press briefing in Abuja.

The apex boss said the decision to raise the interest rate was to tame the country’s soaring headline inflation which increased to 33.69 per cent in April.

CBN had continued tightening of monetary instruments to bring down inflation.

The 295th MPC meeting is the third since the appointment of Cardoso in September last year.

In May 2023, Nigeria’s interest rate stood at 18.75 per cent.

Sacked workers picket Dana Air over unpaid salaries, gratuities, others

No fewer than 100 sacked employees of Dana Air, on Tuesday in Lagos, picketed the head office of the airline over alleged unpaid salaries and outstanding pensions, among others.

The protesters were seen carrying placards with various inscriptions, such as: ‘Expatriates not paid for three months’; ‘Pension deductions not remitted since 2008’; ‘Say No to tyranny’ and ‘7 aircrafts, only one serviceable’, among others.

The airlines’ former Training and Cabin Services Manager, Mrs Magdalene Onyeukwu, who was also among the protesters, expressed dismay over the laying-off of the workers, accusing the airline management of lack of empathy.
Onyeukwu also accused the management of not making adequate settlements before relieving the workers of their jobs.

“I have been working with the airline since 2008 and I participated in the demo flight which got them their Air Operator Certificate (AOC).

“I and others like me have been dedicated, even in the face of challenges. When salaries were not paid, we were committed until the runway incident of April 23.

“It is normal for Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to audit the airline but before we knew it, we got WhatsApp messages that our services were no longer required.

“The Chief Executive Officer of Dana Air, Mr Jacky Hathiramani, should address us. We want our gratuities, while our April salary and one month in lieu of service should be paid,” she said.

Another protester, Mr Eze Chidi, a former Aviation Security (AVSEC) Supervisor, condemned the action of management of the airline on the workers, describing it as uncalled for. Chidi urged the Federal Government to intervene on the alleged victimisation, enslavement, exploitation and unaccountable management, among other acts

Reports have it that the Dana Air management officials were, however, not reachable for comments.

NAN reports that NCAA had, on April 24, suspended the airlines’ AOC, following a runway skid of its MD-82 aircraft, with registration number 5N-BKI on April 23.
NAN also reports that the suspension of the AOC was to allow NCAA to carry out a comprehensive audit of the company.

Consequent upon the ongoing audit, the airline had, in a statement on May 11, stated that some of its employees had been ‘temporarily disengaged’.

ECOWAS Parliament to setup mediation committee on Niger, Mali, Burkina Faso

The defense chiefs from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) countries excluding Mali, Burkina Faso, Chad, Guinea and Niger, gather for their extraordinary meeting in Accra, Ghana, Thursday, Aug. 17, 2023, to discuss the situation in Niger

The Parliament of the Economic Community of West African States, ECOWAS, is to constitute an ad-hoc Mediation Committee to work with all stakeholders towards getting Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso to return to the sub-regional body.

The First Deputy Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament and Deputy Senate President, Jibrin Barau, made the disclosure at the opening of the 2024 2nd Extraordinary Session in Kano on Tuesday. He said the decision was in line with the clarion call made by the President of the ECOWAS Commission for Parliament’s urgent intervention in addressing pressing issues in the community.

“You may recall that in his address at the Inaugural Session, the President of the ECOWAS Commission made the clarion call for Parliament’s urgent intervention in addressing pressing issues in the Community.

“The President noted the urgency of joining ongoing efforts aimed at avoiding the disintegration of the regional bloc, which could happen with the departure of Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso.

“We must heed to that call with all seriousness and be intentional about playing our roles for the millions of citizens being impacted by these conflicts.

“Against this backdrop, I will, in consultation with my colleagues on the Bureau, be proposing the appointment of an Ad hoc Mediation Committee whose mandate will be to work with all stakeholders in getting our brothers to rescind their decision and come home and work towards promoting dialogue with a view to resolving conflicts in the region.

“It’s no doubt that we are stronger together and there is absolutely no alternative to our collective aspirations of a united, peaceful and secure ECOWAS,” Barau said.

He disclosed that a Parliamentary Fact-finding mission was dispatched to the Republic of Togo to ascertain circumstances surrounding the notable absence of the Togolese delegation, who, by virtue of the Supplementary Act on the Enhancement of the Powers of the Parliament, deserves the Speakership, and held discussions with national stakeholders on other political issues.

“I am pleased to report that we received a very favorable response from the Togolese authorities that our brothers from Togo will be inaugurated as soon as possible,” he said.

He also stressed a compelling need to build strong collaboration with the ECOWAS Commission and undertake joint initiatives aimed at strengthening regional security and advancing development.

Barau restated the commitment of the Parliament to continue to build strong collaboration with Community Institutions and Regional Parliaments with a view to promoting synergy for the realization of shared goals.

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