Village Head, Lawmaker arrested, paraded by Police allegedly for stealing Community transformer
The Gombe State Police Command has displayed the village head of Garin Majidadi in Akko Local Government Area and a councillor representing Kumo East for allegedly stealing and selling a community transformer.
Panda, the councillor, and Muhammad Sani from Sarkin Yaki Quarters were apprehended following reports that they had stolen and sold the transformer serving their community.
During the parade of the suspects, ASP Buhari Abdullahi, the police spokesperson, disclosed that credible intelligence from Akko division led to their arrest and the recovery of the stolen transformer from Garin Majidadi village. Investigations revealed that the transformer was sold for N1.5 million to Bello Ardo Kumo.
ASP Buhari confirmed the recovery of the transformer and assured that further investigations were ongoing. He stated that once investigations were completed, the suspects would face charges in court.
Dear Noble Anioma People and Esteemed Stakeholders.
I write to you today with a heart full of hope,determination and patriotism not only as your Senator but as a fellow Anioma person who shares our collective dreams and aspirations.The creation of Anioma State is not just a political goal; it is a deeply collective mission that I have been committed to for many years.
The demand for Anioma creation is unarguably the oldest agitation in the history of Nigeria,started in the 1950s by the people of Aboh and Asaba divisions in the Western regional House of Assembly. It is a struggle that has spanned decades and one that I believe we are closer than ever to achieving.
This journey began long before I became a senator.I have been actively involved in the protracted agitation for Anioma State through various efforts and engagements. I vividly remember the central role I played,arranging crucial meetings between the then President Olusegun Obasanjo and our respected traditional rulers led by the Asagba of Asaba,late Obi Professor Chike Edozien on two occasions between 1999 and 2003,during my tenure as Member representing Aniocha/Oshimili federal constituency in the House of Representatives.These historic meetings were pivotal moments in our quest for Anioma state,as were the discussions I facilitated with former President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua.
As your elected representative,it is my solemn mandate and avowed duty to reignite this effort with renewed vigour.But more profoundly,I stand with you, shoulder to shoulder,as someone who deeply understands the significance of this noble cause.The creation of Anioma State,with Asaba as its capital,is not a self seeking political ambition—it is a vision for a brighter,more prosperous future for all of us. Nobler still -a golden chance to consummate the deepest dreams of our forebears and our cherished prospects as a people.
This initiative is not about division; it is about empowerment.We are not at war with any group.We are not fighting against the South or the Central regions. It goes far beyond linguistic,cultural and sociological gratifications.It is a peace move of progress.A movement for sustainable development.
We are striving to harness our abundant resources and exceptional manpower to build a state that reflects our potential and meets our needs. Our goal is to ensure that Anioma stands tall and proud,with the governance and representation it deserves.
I have vigorously been rallying both at the presidency and within the Senate to gather the necessary support for Anioma State. This is a joint effort, and I urge our brothers in the House of Representatives to join in this crucial endeavour.Together, we have the strength and blessing to turn this dream into reality.
Consider the benefits: Development at our doorsteps- villages and town.New society.New life for our our people. Anioma State would mean three senators instead of one, more representatives in the House, additional seats in our State Assembly, and closer, more responsive and fulfilling governance.
This increased representation will amplify our voices and ensure that our unique needs and interests are addressed. Imagine the impact of having more commissioners,more government offices,more opportunities.Think of the upswing effect – efficient administration.This is my pious point.This is the promise of Anioma State.
The question of whether Anioma will align with the South East, South-South, or Mid West is secondary.That should not be the crux of the matter.Our primary focus should be on building support from across the nation.This is not a time for division or discord. We must unite, focusing our energy on making Anioma State a reality. Insults and divisions will only hinder our progress.
As a democrat, I acknowledge the diverse and divergent opinions within our community.Democracy recognises liberty of free speech.Moreover,it is natural to have differing views,especially in a vibrant and educated population like ours. But remember, this cause is not just for the Anioma people; it is for everyone who calls Anioma home. Every resident, whether an indigene or not, shares in this vision and has a big role to play.
Agitation for Anioma state creation is a movement,long drawn,progressive, unstoppable.Consultations have been ongoing for years, and we will continue these efforts until our goal is achieved.We do not need to start a new round of consultations, as extensive groundwork has already been laid.
As the revered Asagba of Asaba once said on May 5, 2001 at a special summit of Anioma people : “ We should all resolve to have a united Anioma state.We have the men,we have the resources.Let us march forward with courage and vision,conscious of the fact that the weak are victims of history”
During my campaign, I promised the kings and Izu Anioma that I would champion this cause and also advocate for constitutional roles for our traditional rulers.I was elected on this promise, through the sovereign ballot of democracy and I stand by my word.
I recall with much pride that when one of my sons was born in 2001, I named him Anioma, a patriotic symbolism of my innate love for Anioma nation.
Now, more than ever, I ask for your unwavering support.Let us come together, united in purpose and spirit, to make Anioma State a reality.Together, we can achieve this historic milestone and pave a great dawn for all- the present and future generations.
Let Anioma rise as our collective call.The renaissance of our common patrimony. I stand by this promise with the firmness of resolve and brightest of vision.
NDLEA bursts snake-guarded shrine used to store illicit drugs, arrests 2 in Edo . Intercepts 8.2kg methamphetamine concealed in imported chocolate packs in Lagos; nabs 76-year-old grandfather
A snake guarded shrine used to store illicit drugs in Igor community, Benin city, Edo state, has been raided by operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, who detected a specially constructed large hole storage in a wall covered with wallpapers and fetish objects. Different quantities of illicit substances such as methamphetamine, Loud, Colorado and Arizona, all strong strains of cannabis with a total weight of 8.743 kilograms, were pulled out from the deep hole dug in the wall of the shrine building. At least, two ladies: Sonia Chinonso Ezumezu and Risikatu Tijani were arrested during the intelligence-led operation on Tuesday 18th June 2024 after the big black snake guarding the shrine was demobilized. In the same vein, two suspects: Obi Ferguson,45, and Ernest Abanum, 46, were arrested on Saturday 22nd June when NDLEA operatives raided the Usen forest in Ovia South West LGA, Edo state where 209kg cannabis and a motorcycle were recovered. Meanwhile, NDLEA officers in Lagos have intercepted a carefully packaged consignment of 8.2 kilograms of methamphetamine at a motor park in Mazamaza, Ojo area of the state. The highly addictive illicit substance, also called ice or crystal meth was packed in imported Dunkin’ turtle love chocolate wraps and then concealed in the casing of three loud speakers. A 39-year-old suspect, Michael Odiomume who was sending the consignment to Owerri, Imo state was promptly arrested on Wednesday 19th June at the park. In Abuja, operatives on Tuesday 18th June intercepted a white Nissan Frontier pick up vehicle with amber lights and fake registration number of a security agency at Kiyi village in Kuje area of the FCT. The vehicle was loaded with 454 compressed blocks of cannabis sativa, weighing 340.8kg procured at Uzeba, Edo state. A 76-year-old grandfather, Mr. Francis Omofa, linked to the consignment was arrested. He claimed to have been in the illicit drug business for 10 years. With the same vigour, Commands and formations of the Agency across the country continued their War Against Drug Abuse, WADA, sensitization activities in schools, worship centres, work places and communities among others in the past week. These include: WADA enlightenment lecture for students and teachers of St. Peters College, Nibo, Anambra; students and staff of Apostolic Grammar School, Ilesa, Osun state; students and teachers of Immanuel Baptist High School, Oyo town, Oyo state; students and staff of Federal Government Science and Technical College, Otukpa, Benue state, as well as WADA advocacy lecture for Muslim faithful during their juma’at prayer in Umuahia, Abia state and a WADA advocacy visit to the First Lady of Enugu state, Mrs. Nkechinyere Mbah by the state Command of NDLEA. While commending the officers and men of Edo, Lagos, and FCT Commands, Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd) noted the balance in their drug supply reduction and drug demand reduction efforts as well as those of their compatriots across the country. He charged them to maintain the ongoing offensive action against drug cartels as they continue to intensify their war against drug abuse, WADA, social advocacy campaign.
Saturday June 22, 2024 will mark the 19th anniversary of the departure of Michael Athokhamien Omnibus Imoudu, the legendary, veteran Nigerian labour leader. Born in 1902, *Pa Imoudu* as he is popularly remembered and revered, exceeded the full century mark in age, living up to 102 years. As far back as 1931 when he was just 29, Imoudu got involved in labour union activities as a member of the *Railway Workers Union,* (RWU), at the time. He became President of the union in 1939, and spearheaded the advocacy for higher wages, de-casualisation and improved working conditions. Renowned for his radicalism, Imoudu instigated several confrontations between workers and employers all in the quest for better deals for workers. He became Vice President of the African Civil Servants Technical Workers Union, (ACSTWU) in 1941 and was at the fore of the advocacy for a *Cost of Living Allowance,* (COLA), to mitigate post-World War II inflation. He was serially queried for denouncing the preferential treatment accorded European officials above African personnel between 1941 and 1943, and summarily dismissed early January 1943. He was thereafter detained for dissent and released in 1945. For the period between 1947 and 1958, Imoudu was a frontliner of various labour unions. He was President of the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria, (TUCN). Conflicts devolving from the teething organisation culminated in his suspension in 1960, upon his return from the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics, (USSR) and China. For his pioneering role in trade unionism in Nigeria, the former National Institute for Labour Studies, (NILS), located in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, was renamed *Michael Imoudu National Institute for Labour Studies,* (MINILS), in his honour. The colourful Second Republic Senate leader and legendary politician, Abubakar Olusola Saraki is credited with facilitating the siting of the institution in the Kwara State capital. Former President Usman Shehu Shagari laid its foundation stone in May 1983. MINILS received tremendous support during the governorship regimes of Bukola Saraki, son of the older Saraki, and Abdulfatah Ahmed his successor. Both former Kwara State chief executives, undertook the construction of befitting operational and residential facilities in the institute as part of their corporate social responsibility, (CSR), to a federal establishment headquartered in their “area of responsibility,” (AOR), to adopt a military terminology. If you entered the premises of MINILS those good old days, it breathed life and flaunted environmental aesthetics.If Pa Imoudu were to pay a visit today, to MINILS for any reason this season of his remembrance, however, he will be grossly appalled and disoriented by the subsisting state of the institute. MINILS by the way, is supposed to be a pioneering establishment in West Africa, dedicated to capacity building for workers, employees and government officials. As you veer off the Ajasse-Ipo to Ilorin road onto the stretch which leads into the institute, your sensibilities are pitilessly assaulted by rot and disorder which stand guard on both sides of that short stretch. Kiosks, stalls, shops, decrepit buildings, rusted roofs, a cacophony of nondescript structures, constitute themselves into a riotous *mammy market,* an expression and concept popularised by our brothers at arms. It refers to those watering holes which spawn and squirm, at the backends of military barracks, which satiate their patrons with liquid and culinary varieties.The entrance gate is totally uninspiring. It just sits there dumb and disconnected. As you advance into the acreage of the institute, you discover that the tarred driveway very much like the portion you encountered beginning from your detour off the major road, can do with some conscientious resurfacing. The greenery within the premises have not been challenged by the mouths of sharpened cutlasses in a long while, nor the humming, slashing anger of the lawnmower. Paint coatings on the perimeter fence have been peeled off either by reason of substandard work previously done, or the convergence of the rage of the elements. Patches of spyrogyra have contributed to the disfigurement of the hedge in places. A ghostly quiet pervades the air, away from the measured boisterousness of a thriving institute.There is palpable lack of motivation for the generality of the workers, the pervading air also a disincentive for potential trainees. The collective muteness of the physical structures within the institution echoes and reverberates. The *Ollie Anderson Block* long named after an American benefactor of MINILS is the administrative building. It offers no spark or sparkle like the other structures, all collectively sleeping and slumbering. Power outages are the rule rather than the exception and you wonder why the leadership of the establishment wouldn’t avail its workers and course participants alternative energy sources so they can contribute their bits. The hostels in the institute which are supposed to be sources of internally generated revenue, (IGR), are dirty, decrepit, unkempt, utterly dysfunctional. The beds are broken, the beddings unfit for swine. The last batch of participants on a programme put together by the institute, had to rely on water fetched for them in buckets and heaved to their rooms. Such is the level of rot in today’s MINILS. Issa Obalowu Aremu, a trade unionist and labour leader himself has been the director-general of the institute for about three years now. He was vice president of the Nigerian Labour Congress, (NLC), when Adams Oshiomhole was president, between 1999 and 2007, which coincided with the years Olusegun Obasanjo was President. Aremu initially attended the Ahmadu Bello University, (ABU), Zaria. Unfortunately, he was expelled from the institution in his final year because of activism. Respected scholars and social scientists, Claude Ake and Ikenna Ezimiro rescued Aremu’s educational trajectory by getting him into the University of Port Harcourt, where he graduated in 1985 with a second class upper degree. He obtained a masters in labour and development from the *Institute of Social Studies,* (ISS) in The Hague and was a labour delegate to the National Conference of 2014. He has also been privileged to attend the elite National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, (NIPSS), domiciled in Jos, Plateau State. Unfortunately, these glossy credentials have not been manifest in Aremu’s administration of MINILS thus far. Aremu, who in years as comrade would rail at the wastefulness of bourgeois leaders, today reportedly drives around in Kwara State with a convoy of three or four cars. Not even the prevailing national economic crunch emblematised among others by spiralling fuel costs has mitigated this penchant for unnecessary exhibitionism. He is said to have a detachment of security details from the Department of State Services, (DSS) and the Nigerian police, escorting him around and about. On his trips to Kaduna where he has been primarily domiciled for most of his working life, or Abuja, he is received at the airport by two official vehicles complete with armed escorts. They typically depart Ilorin ahead of his flights. The Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin in the same city, Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, a professor and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, (SAN), who oversees a student community in excess of 50,000 students moves around innocuously in the same Ilorin. This city by the way is relatively peaceful, posting low crime indicators compared to many others.If stories and innuendos are to be credited some believability, there is this insinuation that there seem to be no demarcation between the official and the personal in MINILS under Aremu. The institute for instance groans for lack of operational vehicles to run its affairs. Yet some of its healthier motorised assets are said to be in the custody of his family members in various locations across the country. The names of Aremu’s relatives who are non-staffers in MINILS, have been alleged to feature on the list of his delegations on foreign trips, their tickets and estacodes fully paid by the institution. Fiscal frugality is said to be nonexistent in the dictionary of Issa Aremu.Staff training for job function capacity building, which were usually undergone both externally and internally are reported in the past tense. He was recently pressed by in-house unions to address staffers on issues around capacity training, which he is said to have of completely ignoring in his three years in office. He responded by reluctantly convening a general staff meeting to which, very oddly, he invited the press. He presented an inconclusive compendium containing things he claimed to have achieved in office thus far. He chronicled and appropriated virtually all the legacies of preceding administrations. Aremu listed the *George Meany Computer Centre,* two power generators, and a hostel block, where he set up a non-functional clinic, as his personal achievements. Long-serving civil servants in MINILS, note with deep nostalgia the pluri-dimensional innovations emplaced in the organisation under the watch of former chief executives like Jacob Jeminiwa, John Olanrewaju, Saliu Ishaq Alabi, among achievers.The institute is also hamstrung in convening tune-up programmes for external participants because of the quantum dilapidation of its facilities and unavailability of funds. This is as Aremu is reported to love the big life. He is said to fancy being adulated as “His Excellency, Comrade Issa Obalowu Aremu, mni, Director-General and Chief Executive of Michael Imoudu National Institute for Labour Studies.” Having contested for the governorship of Kwara State on the platform of Labour Party, (LP), in 2018, he has since coveted and adopted that fanciful referent. He also never fails to remind his audiences in the institute that having been deputy as a unionist to former governor Oshiomhole during his years in labour activism, he also qualifies to be referenced as a quasi-governor! He reportedly never fails to remind his officials how lucky they are to have a man with his accomplishments as helmsman. The condition of the Michael Imoudu National Institute for Labour Studies, (MINILS) today is a national embarrassment. The institute constitutes colossal disrespect, monumental insult to the name and legacies of Michael Athokhamien Omnibus Imoudu, the iconic Pa Imoudu. Supervising Minister of Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyeagocha needs to take immediate interest in the institute before it is wholly run aground. A physical visit to the institute for on-the-spot assessment will avail her better insights into the prostrate condition of the establishment. This will help in the articulation of a road map for the institute’s comprehensive makeover. Such timely remediation will please the spirits of those who conceived of the institute and that of Pa Imoudu, to no end. *Tunde Olusunle, PhD, is a Fellow of the Association of Nigerian Authors, (FANA)*
In a decisive move to restore order and ensure the free flow of traffic, the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has impounded another 25 commercial and 15 private vehicles operating illegal garages and causing serious road obstructions around Oyingbo, Ijora, and Idumota areas of Lagos.The operation, led by LASTMA Head of Enforcement Mr. Kayode Odunuga under the directives of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Hon. Sola Giwa, specifically targeted illegal garages that have been a persistent source of congestion and inconvenience for residents and commuters.
The Special Adviser confirmed that this impoundment exercise, which began in recent weeks, is part of a broader initiative by the Lagos State Government to enhance the efficiency of the city’s transportation network.Hon. Sola Giwa emphasized the government’s commitment to maintaining law and order on the roads, ensuring that all traffic regulations are strictly enforced.”illegal garages have been a significant challenge in our quest to maintain a seamless traffic flow in Lagos. These impoundments send a strong message to all offenders that the state will not tolerate activities that disrupt public order and endanger the lives of our citizens,””Our goal is to create a safe and orderly environment for all road users and this action is a crucial step in that direction.”The targeted areas, Oyingbo, Ijora, and Idumota, are known hotspots for traffic congestion due to unauthorized parking and the establishment of makeshift garagesThese activities not only obstruct the free movement of vehicles but also pose safety risks to pedestrians. LASTMA’s intervention aims to clear these bottlenecks and enhance the overall traffic situation in these critical areas.Residents and business owners have expressed their support for the government’s action, noting the positive impact it will have on their daily activities.
LASTMA has also assured the public that the operation will be sustained and extended to other parts of the city where illegal garages and related activities are prevalent.Hon. Giwa urged all vehicle owners and operators to adhere to the state’s traffic regulations and cooperate with authorities to avoid sanctions. He reiterated that the government’s primary objective is to create a better and more livable Lagos for everyone.
He also urged motorists to take ownership of the roads and to promptly inform LASTMA of any broken down or abandoned trailers or trucks via the Agency’s hotlines: 08100565860 / 08129928503.
There’s nothing wrong with what Peter Obi said and suggested. In this hard times, there’s no compulsory reason for a country to have presidential jets – Dele Momodu tackles presidential aide, Bayo Onanuga.
Reacting to this, Dele Momodu stated that there is nothing wrong with what Obi said. He also said that there’s no compulsory reason for a country to have presidential jets in these hard times.
According to him, Tinubu owned private jets ever before he was declared President and he can demonstrate the sacrifice he preaches by downsizing and returning to them and requesting his retinue to go commercial when absolutely necessary.
He wrote;
“In these hard times, there’s no compulsory reason for a country to own Presidential jets. In fact, it is an overindulgence. ASIWAJU BOLA AHMED TINUBU owned private jets ever before he was declared President. He can demonstrate the SACRIFICE he preaches by downsizing and returning to them and requesting his retinue to go commercial when absolutely necessary. AIR PEACE has a fleet of Boeing 777 that can be hired for long haul flights and this will keep them in business. Trouble is our politicians are outlandishly flamboyant… There’s nothing wrong with what PETER OBI said and suggested.”
By Ebinum Samuel As the political crisis in Rivers State worsens, residents have commended the Police Command for exhibiting professionalism, neutrality and proactiveness. The commendations followed the police takeover of the 23 Local Council Secretariat on Tuesday night to prevent breakdown of law and order after the power tussle between incumbent Governor, Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, now Minister for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) assumed dangerous dimensions. Two people- Police Inspector David Mgbada, and a vigilante member, Samuel Nwigwe-were confirmed dead at Eberi-Omuma in Omuma LGA, which followed the face-off between warring political groups over the tenure of the elected officials of the 23 local governments. There was palpable tension in the state on Tuesday after the governor announced the termination of the tenure of the 23 council chairmen and ordered that Administrative Heads should take over pending the conduct of an election.
The governor’s pronouncement which saw youths trooped to the streets to enforce the order, contradicted the law passed by the Martins Amawule-led state House of Assembly that elongated the tenures of the council chairmen by six months. The issue was further complicated by a Court of Appeal order that status quo be maintained until the hearing of suits on the matter as the council chairmen and executives vowed to stay on for another six months in line with the tenure elongation law. Prempting a state of anarchy in the state with resultant loss of lives and property as witnessed in the past, the Commissioner of Police (CP) Olatunji Disu, ordered reinforced security and deployed security operatives in all the 23 LGAs for the maintenance of law and order. But the police’ proactive steps did not go well with some section of the Nigerian public, who have accused the police command of meddling in politics. However, concerned Rivers people and residents believe that the police acted in good time and prevented a situation that would have made the state tumultuous. Referencing the 2013 Rotimi Amaechi versus Nyesom Wike crisis in Rivers State and how the police were needlessly dragged into political waters, the concerned residents appealed to the warring factions to resolve their differences and leave security operatives out of it. “We are not going to be quiet and watch an ugly history repeat itself. We have gone through this route in 2013 and we saw how badly it affected the state. Politicians should learn to resolve their issues without recourse to violence. They cannot continue to arm thugs and cultists to threaten the peace in the state and then turn around to blame the police for doing their job,” said an Ogoni community leader, Saviour Nebari.
Commenting on the development, the National Coordinator, Centre for Basic Rights Protection and Accountability Campaign, Prince Wiro Junior, said he was very proud of the performance of the nopolice led by CP Disu, adding that they have remained professional since the beginning of the crisis. “I must commend the police under CP Olatunji Disu for being very professional in handling the crisis in Rivers State. “I am from Emehua Local Government and resident in Rivers State. Do not forget that the primary responsibility of the police is to protect life and property. They also have a duty to detect crime before it happens. “If not for the proactiveness of the CP, there would have been so much bloodshed in Rivers State yesterday. We also understand that some of the political gladiators have recruited cultists and all sorts of violent elements to unleash mayhem on their rivals but the CP and his men were able to rise to the occasion to prevent breakdown of law and order. “The police have been very apolitical and neutral in this issue. There is calm across Rivers State today because the police took over the 23 LGAs to ensure peace and stability. “Some people are asking why the police would take over the LGAs but I support them because if they were not proactive and violence broke out with deaths recorded in high numbers, people would still condemn the police for not acting. So, I commend them. They have done very well and I urge them to keep doing so. “I want to use this opportunity to plead with the political gladiators to conduct their activities within the confines of the law. They should stop recruiting cultists and violent elements to disrupt the peace and stability of the state. “If you are in Rivers State between Tuesday and Wednesday, you don’t need anyone to tell you all manner of characters that have come out from various nooks and crannies who are being sponsored by the politicians. The politicians should allow peace to reign in the state for the good of all.” Another resident, Prince Udemkwe, said the fact that the warring factions were accusing the police of taking sides was a pointer that the service had stayed neutral and refused to do their bidding. “It is very clear that each side wants the police to support them but they are not having their way. That is why both sides have been accusing the police of taking sides. For us, the ordinary residents in Rivers State, we are glad that the police have stayed proactive. “If the police were not proactive in preventing some of the actions of these politicians, I won’t be able to go about my legitimate business and that will further make life difficult in this already hard economy. “So, I am begging the police to continue to be neutral and not to allow any of the sides to influence them. If they succeed in having their way, violence will erupt in this state and it will affect those of us who make daily income,” he said. Contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Grace Iringe-Koko, dismissed allegations of bias against the police. She insisted that the police acted in public interest and in good faith, noting that it was the duty of the command to prempt and prevent any act of violence. Iringe-Koko said the Commissioner of Police had continually sounded warning to all operatives of the command to be neutral and apolitical, adding that all the police had done since the crisis begun was stay on the sides of the law. “We are only doing our job as we are supposed to. We have a no-nonsense CP who has a track record of being professional. As I speak with you, the CP is on patrol himself. He is monitoring situations across the state and he keeps reminding all of us that we are police operatives, not politicians. “I think it is rather unfair on us that some people are accusing us of taking sides. If we do nothing and their is violence, we will be accused of not doing our job. Now, we are taking steps to prevent bloodbath and some peoole are still accusing us of takinf sides. We will not be discouraged. “I want to appeal to the politicians to keep the police out of their issue. The police are out to ensure the safety and security of all residents of the state and their property. We will not take it lightly with anyone for meeting trouble in the state and will ensure the full weight of the law is deployed on them,” she warned.
Condemning Tuesday’s violence in the strongest terms, the Inspector General of Police (IG) Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, directed the Commissioner of Police to heighten security measures across the state and institute thorough investigations into the killing of the police officer and the vigilante operative. A statement yesterday by Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO), ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, said the IG directed investigation into the general violence which erupted in the state. “The IGP has specifically deployed operatives of the Force Intelligence Response Team (IRT) to assist the Rivers State Command in apprehending the killers of the police officer and the vigilante member. “The IGP seriously warns individuals and groups of people who have a penchant for senseless attacks and mindless killings of police officers and other security operatives across the country to desist forthwith as the fullest force of the law will be meted on them. “The CP has also been directed to focus on increased patrols, strategic deployment of officers, and enhanced intelligence operations to prevent further violence and ensure the safety of all residents. “The IGP extends heartfelt condolences to the families, friends, and colleagues of the deceased police officer and the vigilante member noting that their dedication and sacrifice in the line of duty will not be taken for granted. “The Inspector General of Police calls on all residents and political stakeholders in the State to exercise restraint and seek peaceful means of resolving differences,” he said.
Former Accountant-General of the Federation (AGF), Jonah Ogunniyi Otunla has reportedly died at an undisclosed hospital in the United Kingdom.Otunla who was born on June 12, 1955 died few days after his 69th birthday.A source disclosed that the former AGF recently travelled to the United Kingdom for treatment of a yet-to-be disclosed ailment.“I can tell you that he died in the hours between Sunday June 17 and Monday June 17”, revealed our insider source.“While alive, he faced prosecution from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
“He was being hounded in connection with two cases — the alleged diversion of about N24 billion meant for disengaged staff of the defunct Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN) and N2 billion allegedly received from the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA).
Chairman/Chief Executive of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd) has justified the decision of the anti-narcotics body to go after the assets of drug barons and traffickers as part of ongoing offensive action against illicit drugs and cartels. Marwa explained the rationale behind the fresh drive of the Agency at a press conference in Abuja on Wednesday 19th June 2024 to kick off week-long activities to celebrate the 2024 International Day Against Drugs and Illicit Trafficking, in conjunction with other stakeholders like the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, UNODC. “Permit me to share with you that our offensive action against drug cartels and traffickers, launched in January 2021, has to date continued to yield the desired result with the arrests and prosecutions of several barons. As you are all aware, two serial traffickers got life imprisonment in court in April. Our prosecution efforts have continued to achieve successes in courts given the painstaking investigations and diligence in the prosecution of cases. Our water tight case preparations are unassailable. This has been further strengthened with our forfeiture regime with the passage of Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA 2022). “Apart from conviction, the assets of the convicts used as instrumentality of the crime or the proceeds derived from the crime would be forfeited to the federal government. Indeed, a civil action in rem could be maintained against assets reasonably suspected to be proceeds of crime in which case the burden of proving the licit origin of the asset would be on the defendant who claims ownership of the asset. This diligent and painstaking preparation of investigations and prosecutions explains the success of the high conviction rate”, the NDLEA boss, represented by the Agency Secretary, Mr. Shadrach Haruna stated. Speaking on the drug demand reduction efforts of the Agency, Marwa said the flagship programme, war against drug abuse, WADA, built on ‘the whole of society approach’ to preventive action against drug abuse has been a tremendous success as an effective tool of advocacy for social action and an awareness-driven vehicle for public engagement and collaboration against illicit trafficking and abuse, which he said aligns with the theme for the 2024 world drug day, WDD.
He said the world drug day, observed on June 26 every year, “is an important day for the global community, and an occasion during which current efforts against illicit drug problems are given policy direction for the next 12 months.” He added that the theme for this year “The Evidence is Clear: Invest in Prevention”, emphasises the importance of preventing people from falling into the danger of experimenting with illicit drugs and subsequently falling into the trap of dependence on psychoactive substances. According to him, “Prevention is an important aspect of the effort to curb the menace of abuse of illicit drugs in society. At NDLEA, prevention, as ably anchored in our War Against Drug Abuse (WADA), social advocacy programme is a priority area for us. Within our modest means and with the support of the Federal Government and our various stakeholders, we have invested in prevention by various means over the past three years as part of the reforms being undertaken in the agency.” Giving a breakdown of the weeklong activities, the NDLEA boss explained that “On Friday, June 21, we will observe a Juma’at Service at the National Mosque in Abuja to commemorate World Drug Day. On Saturday, June 22, our usual Walk Against Drugs in collaboration with MTN and other stakeholders will be staged from the Old Parade Ground as the take-off point by 7 am to the Garki Market. On Sunday, June 23, we will have a thanksgiving church service at the National Christian Centre, that is, the Ecumenical Centre, by 10 am. On Monday, June 24, we will be having the grand finale of our secondary school essay competition. The NDLEA essay competition is a nationwide contest conducted among secondary schools, with the entries whittled down to the final six.
“That same day, Monday, June 24, is earmarked as NGO Day when our partners will have their activities. The following day, Tuesday 25, we will be in markets and parks in the Federal Capital Territory area councils for a programme for out-of-school youths. Finally, on Wednesday, June 26, the World Drug Day commemoration event will be held at the State House Conference Centre, beginning at 9 am, where all stakeholders will gather to formally unveil the new global policy direction for tackling illicit drug problems.” He expressed gratitude to the federal and state governments for the support given to the Agency in various ways in the onslaught against drug traffickers. “The UNODC has been a strong support for us as well as our foreign partners, including the US-Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL), the British Border Force, National Crime Agency (NCA) of United Kingdom, as well as our stakeholders like Nigerian Armed Forces, the Customs, Police, Immigration, NAFDAC, NFIU, NACA, FRSC and Civil Defence, among others. And importantly, our media friends. That you are here today is a testament to the support you have given to us these past three years. I cannot help but thank you and the media you represent”, he added. In his remarks, UNODC Country Deputy Representative, Mr. Danilo Campisi called on government at all levels and other stakeholders in Nigeria to invest in drug use preventive measures to avoid a 40% rise in the population of drug users in the country especially the youth population. According to him, “projections show that by 2030, there will be a 40% increase in the use of drugs in Africa, based on the population of young people. This is extremely concerning, if we consider that 2030 is only six years away.
“We are all familiar with the saying: “prevention is better than cure” and considering the data and projections, it has become even more critical for Nigeria to invest heavily in drug use preventive measures. I do not think it would be an exaggeration to describe this as a national emergency. If the country is to take on the challenge of this projected increase in drug use, it is imperative that it adopts scientific evidence-based approaches that prioritise prevention and treatment.” He said UNODC has worked with the “Government of Nigeria to adapt and implement evidence-based prevention measures which include the highly successful UNPLUGGED, a school-based Drug Prevention Programme implemented together with the Federal Ministry of Education, in 110 Unity Schools and in a few states in the country, notably Kebbi, Bayelsa and recently, Kaduna, on the initiative of the State Governments in these States.”
Operatives of the Delta State Police Command have apprehended a General Overseer, identified as Bishop Godfrey, along with his wife and several church associates, in connection with an attempted kidnapping of another bishop in Agbarho, Ughelli North local government area.
The police arrested the cleric and his accomplices, which included an assistant pastor, church elders, and a few members, after intercepting threatening messages sent to the targeted bishop. The suspects are currently detained at the Ughelli Police A’ Division, where military uniforms were also discovered during a search.The detained bishop allegedly sent a text message threatening to kidnap and assassinate the other bishop while demanding a ransom of N150,000. The victim managed to send N100,000 to an account provided in the message, but subsequent delays in sending the remaining N50,000 led to multiple threatening messages.
In the messages, the suspect, who identified himself as a member of the Black Axe cult, demanded the ransom and warned of severe consequences if the payment was not completed. One of the texts read in Pidgin English, “Hello Bishop, this is me, Dust to Dust, member Black Axe cultist (Eye) Ugolo Zone. Be informed that we were asked to assassinate you, kidnap and kill you right in your church at Agbarho but we therefore decided to change our mind based on one condition.”
Further threats followed as the payment deadline approached, with the suspect detailing their capacity for violence and previous crimes. They warned the bishop to transfer the remaining money or face dire consequences, stating, “Do not bother to come to your church on Sunday as we are going to shoot you on your head and chest to ensure that you did not survive.”
Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Edafe Bright, confirmed the arrests and the recovery of incriminating items, including three army uniforms and over 20 SIM cards from the General Overseer’s residence. He assured that investigations are ongoing to fully uncover the extent of the crime.“Investigation is on to unravel the incident,” Bright said.The case has drawn significant attention and highlights ongoing security challenges in the region. The police continue to urge the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities.
