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House Committee Moves To Strengthen PSCs Ability And Power, says civilian oversight of the Police is an indispensable mechanism for promoting transparency, accountability and Public trust in law enforcement

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By Ebinum Samuel

The House of Representatives Committee on Police Institutions today, Wednesday, November 20th 2024 visited the Police Service Commission to interact with the Management of the Commission to understand the challenges and see how it can Intervene to put the Commission in proper shape to render its oversight responsibilities on the Police.

The leader of the delegation and Chairman of the House Committee on Police Institutions, Hon. Barr. Aliyu Wakili Boya said civilian oversight of the Police “is an indispensable mechanism for promoting transparency accountability and Public trust in law enforcement Institutions. In view of this, he declared that there was need to strengthen the Commission’s ability and authority. He told the Commission’s management that in order to function effectively, there is need to provide adequate budgetary provisions, legal backing and operational independence for the Commission.

The Committee Chairman said he is aware of the financial challenges the Commission is facing and said he has discussed it with his colleague in the Appropriation Committee.Hon Boyo commended the Commission Chairman for the innovative programmes he introduced since his assumption of duty, stressing that the “Arena of Knowledge” lecture series was a demonstration of his commitment to improved staff knowledge, productivity and efficiency towards service delivery.He also commended the Chairman for his astute leadership, prudent management of resources and forthrightness in repositioning the Commission.The Chairman of the Commission, DIG Hashimu Argungu rtd mni, who received the visiting delegation at the Corporate Headquarters of the Commission expressed his happiness at the decision of the Committee to visit the Commission.

DIG Argungu noted that the visit was timely and remarkable and appealed for the support of the Committee in ensuring adequate budgetary provision for the Commission. The PSC Chairman said the constitutional responsibilities 9f the Commission has suffered due to financial incapacitation.He assured the Committee of the Preparedness of the Commission to improve the services of the Nigeria Police Force through credible and efficient oversight.DIG Argungu said the new leadership of the Commission has zero tolerance for Corruption and has launched the whistle blowing Policy stressing that these programmes would remain the benchmark for its oversight of the Police.DIG Taiwo Lekanu, Honourable Commissioner in the Commission and Chief Onyemuche Nnamani Secretary to the Commission were in the Chairman’s team that received the visiting delegation.

Reviewing A Year Performance: LASTMA Boss Bakare-Oki Reaffirms Commitment To Excellence And Dedication

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By Ebinum Samuel

As today marks the first anniversary of Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki’s appointment as the General Manager of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), the Agency through the spokesman , Adebayo Taofiq said over the past one year, Mr. Bakare-Oki has demonstrated exemplary leadership, unwavering dedication, and a forward-thinking approach to addressing the intricate challenges of traffic management in Lagos State.Taofiq disclosed that under his astute guidance, LASTMA has attained significant milestones that have transformed traffic operations, enhanced road safety, and solidified the agency’s pivotal role in the socio-economic development of Lagos State. Some of these accomplishments according to Taofiq, include,Traffic Flow Optimization:Through strategic leadership, Mr. Bakare-Oki introduced advanced traffic management techniques, incorporating cutting-edge technology and data analytics to alleviate congestion along critical road corridors.

His efforts have resulted in the deployment of intelligent traffic control systems, dramatically reducing gridlock in key areas of the metropolis.Enhanced Operational Efficiency:Recognizing the centrality of a well-trained workforce, he initiated extensive capacity-building programs for LASTMA personnel, equipping them with contemporary traffic management skills while fostering a culture of professionalism, integrity, and efficiency.Public Engagement and Awareness:With a focus on road safety and compliance, Mr. Bakare-Oki championed comprehensive public sensitization campaigns aimed at educating motorists and pedestrians. These initiatives have led to a significant decline in traffic infractions and road accidents across Lagos State.Integration of Technology:His administration embraced technological innovations to streamline operations, including the introduction of mobile applications for real-time traffic updates and incident reporting.

Additionally, the establishment of real-time monitoring systems has bolstered LASTMA’s capacity for rapid response and proactive management.Collaboration and Stakeholder Engagement:Under his leadership, LASTMA has cultivated deeper collaborations with transport unions, private sector stakeholders, and community leaders. This collective approach has fostered shared responsibility in addressing traffic challenges and improving the urban commuting experience.Infrastructure Improvements:Mr. Bakare-Oki has overseen the refurbishment and modernization of LASTMA facilities, creating an enabling environment that enhances the productivity of officers and ensures better service delivery to Lagosians.Launch of the LASTMA Toll-Free Call Centre:In a bid to bring traffic management closer to the public, Mr. Bakare-Oki inaugurated LASTMA’s first-ever Toll-Free Call Centre (080000527862), providing an accessible platform for reporting traffic issues and seeking assistance. Strengthening of Research and Statistics:To ensure accurate data collation for both local and international reference, the agency’s Research and Statistics Department was upgraded and equipped to function at an optimal level.”As we commemorate this landmark anniversary, we celebrate Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki’s unwavering dedication to excellence and the remarkable progress achieved under his stewardship.

His visionary leadership has not only elevated LASTMA’s operations but has also cemented the agency’s status as a benchmark for effective traffic management across Nigeria””Looking ahead, we are confident that LASTMA, under Mr. Bakare-Oki’s continued leadership, will achieve even greater milestones and further contribute to the transformation of Lagos into a world-class megacity” Taofiq

Marwa charges elites to join crusade against substance abuse, drug trafficking . Enlists public support for drug war in keynote speech at Island Club Business Forum

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By Ebinum Samuel

Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd) has charged the Nigerian elites to key into the whole-of-society strategy by the NDLEA to curb the scourge of substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking in the country. Marwa gave the charge in his keynote speech at the Island Club Business Forum in Lagos on Tuesday 19th November 2024. According to him, “This is not a challenge for government alone. All of us are stakeholders on this issue and it is an assignment for all Nigerians. The standard whole-of-society approach to the drug issue is such that everyone is a stakeholder. The future of Nigeria belongs to us all. “As we are doing our bit at NDLEA, we expect society to complement our efforts by taking a huge role in preventing the young ones from falling into situations that encourage experimentation with drugs, whether licit or illicit. Every one of us has a role to play, and the simplest role is one of advocacy. By spreading the message, we can all become anti-drug abuse advocates. Spreading the word about the dangers of misuse of drugs can go a long way in shielding more lives from the ruins of illicit drugs. The Island Club can also join in this effort to safeguard the wellbeing of our society from the drug menace.” He told the gathering of business leaders, students and parents that since the retooling of NDLEA three years ago after he assumed leadership, the Agency has ramped up its drug demand reduction and drug supply reduction efforts leading to significant results, adding that the call for everyone to support the ongoing effort has become imperative because of the forecast by UNODC in 2021 World Drug Report that drug use in Africa will rise by 40% in Year 2030 especially among those within 25-29 and 30-34 age groups as a result of population growth. “By and large, the outlook of the future will depend on our action or inaction at curbing the drug abuse trend. I, being an optimist, believe the future favours Nigeria―only if we get the matrix right. A lot has been said about the future belonging to Africa. Indeed, the potential is glaring, when you factor in the continent’s burgeoning youth population, the digital aptitude of the younger generation and the enterprising spirit of young people. “But a lot of work has to go into the making of that vision. If we read the statistics correctly, the world’s biggest drug problem of the future could be in Africa. So, the future could be bright or bleak; it could be one of boom or gloom; it could be decades of prosperity or problems depending on the amount of work we are willing to do today. Tomorrow, the saying goes, belongs to the people who prepare for it today”, he stated. He said the enormity of the problem is further reflected by the anti-drug activities of the NDLEA in the past three years. “In just three years, we have arrested 52, 901 traffickers, including 52 barons, and 9, 034 have been convicted. The barons we have arrested are not anonymous people in society. They include big business people and socialites—some of them have chieftaincy titles—and also government officials, including those tasked with maintaining law and order. That tells how deeply the rot had eaten into the fabric of our society. Within the period, we have seized 8.6 million kilograms of assorted illicit drugs and destroyed 1,572 hectares of cannabis farms”, the NDLEA boss added. Other invited guests who spoke on the menace of drug abuse at the forum include: Prof Harry Ladapo, a consultant psychiatrist and Prof Lere Baale, President, Nigeria Academy of Pharmacy. In his welcome remarks, Chairman of the Island Club, Omoba Rotimi Olasode Martins acknowledged Marwa’s unwavering commitment to combating drug abuse adding that “his wealth of experience in tackling this scourge inspire us all.”

YHe described “drug abuse as a menace that has infiltrated every layer of our society, threatening our youth, destabilizing families, and undermining the socio-economic fabric of our nation.” “Today, we are gathered not only to discuss its devastating impact but, more importantly, to explore practical, sustainable solutions to this epidemic. This event exemplifies what Island Club has stood for since its inception – a hub for meaningful discourse, community engagement, and solutions-driven dialogue.

“As we embark on this journey today, let us remember that the fight against drug abuse is not just about enforcement or legislation, it is about building a society that offers hope, opportunities, and support to its citizens. Together, we can create a Nigeria where our young people can thrive, free from the shadows of addiction”, he added.

PSC APPOINTS AIG MOHAMMED ARI ALI AS DIG… Argungu calls for professionalism and zero tolerance for corruption

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By Ebinum Samuel

The Police Service Commission today, Tuesday, November 19th, 2024, appointed AIG Ari Mohammed Ali Deputy Inspector General of Police to replace DIG Ade Ayuba who has retired from service. Ali was until today the AIG incharge of Zone one, Kano and hails from Nasarawa state in the North Central region of the country.

He is assuming duties to represent the region from where the retired DIG Ayuba also hails from.

PSC Chairman, DIG Hashimu Argungu rtd mni, who presided over the emergency Management Meeting of the Commission called for professionalism and zero tolerance for Corruption from the new DIG.

DIG Argungu said the Commission will encourage the new DIG to fall in line with the Commission’s vision for a Police Force that is professional and accountable to the Nigerian people.
He said the new PSC is building a new Police that will be a pride of the Nigeria people, free of corruption but full of vigor and determination to serve.

He noted that the Commission will continue to partner with the Police to ensure that it succeeds in its primary duty of protecting lives and property and dismantling crime and criminality.

He congratulated DIG Ari Mohammed Ali and charged him to go and give his best in the service of his fatherland.

Spokesman Ikechukwuu Ani, disclosed that DIG Taiwo Lakanu rtd, fdc, Honourable Commissioner and Chief Onyemuche Nnamani, Secretary to the Commission also took time to congratulate the new DIG and assured him of the Commission’s support.

Tinubu Is A Yoruba Man And Yet Has Given The Fulani What They Have Been Yearning For – Bello Bodejo

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According to the report from the Sun, the National President of the Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore, Alhaji Abdullahi Bello Bodejo expressed appreciation for President Tinubu’s recent establishment of the Ministry of Livestock Development, a long-awaited move that previous administrations, including that of a Fulani president, had failed to accomplish.

Bodejo emphasized that the creation of this ministry under a Yoruba president demonstrates Tinubu’s commitment to addressing the needs of the Fulani people.However, he also expressed reservations about the minister, Idi Mukhtar Maha, suggesting that he may not be effectively carrying out his responsibilities. Bodejo recounted an instance when he was invited to meet with the minister in Zone Four, raising questions about the transparency and accessibility of the minister’s office.According to Bello Bodejo, “If a Fulani man insults President Tinubu, I will ask the person, ‘our Fulani brother was the president before Tinubu, did he create this ministry for us?’ This is a Yoruba man and yet has given the Fulani what they have been yearning for.

I expect the minister, Idi Mukhtar Maha to do the right thing. Two days ago, I received a phone call from somebody asking me to come to Zone Four to meet with the minister. I don’t know the day the minister office was moved to Zone Four. So, I didn’t go.”

UK, Italy, Turkey, Qatar-bound cocaine, meth consignments intercepted in Lagos, Abuja

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As NDLEA arrests masterminds at MMIA, Abuja hotel; foils bid to smuggle opioids into Lagos from Ghana

By Ebinum Samuel

Attempts by drug syndicates to export large consignments of cocaine, methamphetamine and opioids through the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, MMIA, Ikeja Lagos and the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, NAIA, Abuja to the United Kingdom, Italy, Turkey and Qatar have been thwarted by operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, who in series of intelligence led operations recovered the illicit drugs and arrested the masterminds.
A total of 13 parcels of cocaine weighing 4.40kg cocaine going to the United Kingdom via Frankfurt on a Lufthansa Airlines flight were intercepted by NDLEA officers at the export shed of the Lagos airport on 5th November 2024 while a businessman linked to the consignment, Ekeocha Anayo Nelson, was tracked and arrested on 8th November.


The bid by another businessman, Adegbite Solomon (aka Obama) to export 7,800 pills of tramadol, 180 tablets of rohypnol, and 60 bottles of codeine to Italy was also foiled at the departure hall of the Lagos airport on Monday 11th November when NDLEA operatives arrested him after recovering the opioids concealed in food and other items while attempting to board an Ethiopian Airlines flight to Italy. He claimed to have travelled to Europe through the Mediterranean Sea and earned a living as a street beggar before delving into logistics business.


Also related is the arrest of another businessman, Anoke Kingsley Roomy with 1,100 pills of tramadol 225mg hidden in his luggage while attempting to board his Ethiopian Airlines flight going to Istanbul, Turkey at the terminal 1 of the Lagos airport on Friday 15th November.
Following credible intelligence, NDLEA officers of the Directorate of Operations and General Investigation, DOGI, and their counterparts from the FCT Command of the Agency on Friday 15th November raided a hotel room at the Federal Housing Authority estate, Lugbe, Abuja, where they arrested two suspects: Omeh Uchenna Jude, 36, and Anene Valentine Chigozie, 34. Recovered from them was 1.8kg methamphetamine, which they were preparing to travel with to Qatar.


Another suspect, Akande Moruf Olasunkanmi, was arrested with 1.8kg methamphetamine by operatives of a Special Operations Unit in NDLEA at his 9 Durojaiye street, Lawanson area of Surulere, Lagos home after weeks of intelligence and surveillance.
In another intelligence led operation, officers of an NDLEA task force on Saturday 16th November foiled the attempt by a trans-border trafficker, Emmanuel Okechukwu Okeke to smuggle 50,000 pills of tramadol 225mg from Ghana into Lagos. The pills were concealed in the body compartments of a Toyota Hummer Bus belonging to GUO Transport Company, driven by the suspect. The vehicle was intercepted at Ijanikin area of the Lagos-Badagry expressway while coming from Ghana.


In Edo state, not less than 997kg cannabis was recovered during raids in parts of the state. While 680kg cannabis and a Sienna bus marked FST-320 AE were seized at a bush path to Oghada forest in Oghada, Orhionmwan LGA, 180.5kg of same substance was recovered from a suspect, Cecilia Ibe, 31, at Ofosu forest, Ovia South West LGA and 136.5kg evacuated from a building in Otuo community, Owan East LGA on Thursday 14th November.
A suspect, Ifejimagha Chinonso was on Wednesday 13th November nabbed with 88.3kg cannabis by NDLEA operatives on patrol along the Lagos-Ibadan expressway while personnel of Kano Command of the Agency on Friday 15th November arrested Ahmed Goni, 30, at Gadar Tamburawa, Kano- Zaria road where they recovered from him 65,730 capsules of tramadol.
In Kwara state, NDLEA operatives arrested a suspect Adio Sulaiman with 120.8kg cannabis and some litres of codeine at Gaa Odota in Ilorin West LGA, while Kelechi Obichere, 42, was nabbed with 75kg cannabis at Eziobodo, Owerri West LGA, Imo state on Thursday 14th November. A total of 563.74 kilograms of same psychoactive substance were recovered from a 60-year-old suspect Anthony Anakabi, following his arrest at Iyalode, Iyana church area of Ibadan, the Oyo state capital.


With the same vigour, Commands and formations of the Agency across the country continued their War Against Drug Abuse, WADA, sensitization activities to schools, worship centres, work places and communities among others in the past week. These include: WADA enlightenment lecture to students and staff of Government Day Secondary School, Bazza, Adamawa; Community Secondary School, Ogan-Ama, Rivers state; NKST Secondary School, Adikpo, Benue state; Government Secondary School, Tambuwal, Sokoto state; Government Girls Secondary School, Kunchi, Kano; Ebele Chu Group of Schools, Nkpor Onitsha, Anambra; and Army Cantonment Senior Boys High School, Ojo, Lagos state, among others.


While commending the officers and men of MMIA, DOGI, DI, Oyo, Lagos, Imo, Kwara, Kano, and Edo Commands of the Agency for the arrests and seizures, Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd) stated that their operational successes and those of their compatriots across the country especially their balanced approach to drug supply reduction and drug demand reduction efforts are well appreciated.

ONDO GOVERNORSHIP ELECTION: PSC COMMENDS POLICE ON PERFORMANCE

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By Ebinum Samuel

The Police Service Commission has expressed its satisfaction on the performance of the security personnel who policed the Ondo State Governorship election that held today in the state.The Commission staff Monitors report shows that the security men, especially the Police arrived voting centres on time and was alive to their constitutional responsibility of securing the election space. Commission Monitors said the Police Officers were polite, civil but firm in the conduct of their electoral duties. According to a statement signed by Ikechukwuu Ani, DIG Sylvester Abiodun Alabi, Deputy Inspector General of Police in charge of Force CID, and, who presided over the security management of the election ensured a seamless deployment of security personnel with Commissioners of Police manning all the Local Government Areas.

He was assisted by other senior Police Officers including the AIG Zone 7, AIG Benneth Igwe, the Ondo state Commissioner of Police, CP Abayomi Oladipo Peter and Olatunji Disu, CP, Federal Capital Territory. There were however reports of pockets of vote buying in some voting centres which has become a recurring decimal in elections in the country.PSC Monitors report that the election security was generally credible and above average and has received the commendation of the Civil Society Situation Room. CLEEN FOUNDATION, Member of the Situation Room has also commended the Commission for its proactive oversight of Police conduct during elections.

POLICE REJECT BRIBE OFFER OF N174M BY ARRESTED NOTORIOUS INTERNET FRAUDSTER IN LAGOS

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By Ebinum Samuel


Operatives of the Zone 2 Police Command, Onikan, Lagos, have rejected an offer of N174m bribe from a 28-year-old suspected internet fraudster, Patrick Akpoguma, alleged to have being involved in various types of internet-related fraud, including romance scams, identity theft, cyber hacking, cryptocurrency fraud, ritualism, and cultism.

The suspect, Akpoguma, confessed to the crime while speaking with journalists at Zone 2, Onikan, Lagos.

He explained that, in an attempt to have his name cleared, he began offering monetary bribes to the police.

He offered the sum of $100,000 USD (One Hundred Thousand Dollars), which is equivalent to about One Hundred and Seventy-Four Million Naira, to the police.

Addressing the press, the Assistant Inspector General (AIG), Adegoke Fayoade, revealed that the investigation into Akpoguma began on November 7, 2024, after receiving reports from residents of Chevron Drive, Lekki, where the suspect resides.

According to AIG Fayoade, “Patrick Akpoguma admitted to being involved in what is known as romance scams and other cryptocurrency-related scams. “He meets various people online and presents himself as a notable and famous Caucasian American, such as Colonel Matt Herbert, a serving U.S. Army officer currently on a peacekeeping mission in Iran. He also impersonates Adam Taggart, a renowned cryptocurrency and stock brokerage expert in the United States.

“He convinces his unsuspecting victims that he is a top executive working on several projects that require funding, which leads him to request loans. Typically, he receives these loans via his Bitcoin Trust Wallet or through blockchain transactions. So far, he has defrauded over seven victims using this method.

“To perfect these fraudulent activities, he created a fake Instagram account under the name ‘Adam Taggart.’ This account allowed him to purchase a silicone face and hand mask from maskmarkers.com, which was delivered to his residence on Chevron Drive, Lekki. He paid $11,200 USD for the manufacturing of this mask, which he used to impersonate Adam Taggart on Facebook and Instagram.

“Surprisingly, during the investigation, the suspect began pleading and offering money to be let off the hook. Once I was informed about this, I instructed my detectives from Raider team to play along. On November 12, 2024, he offered the sum of $100,000 USD (One Hundred Thousand Dollars), equivalent to about One Hundred and Seventy-Four Million Naira. The money was accepted, registered as evidence, and the investigation continued.

“So far, the investigation has been concluded, and the suspect will be arraigned accordingly,” he added.

Speaking about his actions, the suspect, Patrick Akpoguma, said he felt too intelligent to work for a salary, which is why he turned to fraud three years ago. “I am a graduate of Mechanical Engineering, and I am 28 years old. After leaving school, it became clear that I needed to find my own path and try to get on my feet. I decided to try fraud while I looked for something legitimate.

“I started doing fraud three years ago, and since then, I’ve made over $500,000 USD. I’ve achieved a lot—owning a house in Lagos, a house in Edo State, and a GLE Benz worth N100m.

“Once I defraud people and feel I’ve taken enough from them, I simply walk away. I don’t leave them penniless.”

Regarding his encounter with the police, he stated, “In my three years of fraud, I don’t think I’ve ever had a bad encounter with the police. This is the first time I’ve been in contact with the police. I was just trying to negotiate with them, and I thought they were actually responding to the negotiation.

“I must confess, it’s a good step for the Nigerian police and the Nigerian people to regain their trust in the police for being transparent. It’s good to know that some credible officers are still out there, willing to see justice done.

“My advice to people like me is: I would advise everyone to be more diligent, stay focused on the process, find something legitimate, and grow. Because I believe that what is legitimate has the space and platform to grow, whereas illegitimate income is not dependent on you, and it has no space for growth.”

Okonjo-Iweala’s brother who was convicted of theft in America emerges traditional ruler in Nigeria

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Some members of the Ogwashi -Uku community have petitioned the Delta State government following the emergence and activities of the brother of Dr  Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala 

, Director General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), Ifechukwude Okonjo as the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku, a prominent community in Anaocha South Local Government Area of the State.

TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports that Okonjo is facing allegations of misconduct following the disclosure of a past criminal conviction in the United States.

The monarch, who was said to have assumed the traditional role shortly after the death of his father in 2019, was revealed to have been convicted of theft in Montgomery County, Maryland, in 1997.

The revelation stirred controversy in Ogwashi- Uku , prompting some members to petition the Delta State Government, urging an investigation into Okonjo’s alleged actions since taking the throne.

In the court records reviewed, Okonjo was convicted of theft of computers and related equipment from Digital Equipment Corporation, valued at over $300, between January and March 1995 and sentenced to one year in prison, with a separate six-month sentence added for failing to surrender himself within 30 days of bail forfeiture.

In the petition dated October 4, 2024, and signed by prominent members of Ogwashi-Uku community, which include, Chiedu Enwenwa, Hyacinth Okolie, Ellen Adigwe, and Bruce Ugo Emordi . Represented by the law firm F.O. Okolie to the Delta State Government and the State Security Service, SSS, they allege that Okonjo has engaged in illegal activities, including land grabbing, arms smuggling, and the formation of armed militia groups, to assert control over local land and intimidate residents.

They also claimed Okonjo used his influence to recruit armed vigilante groups which they alleged has been involved in violent crimes such as kidnapping and murder, to seize land and enforce his authority.

According to the historical timeline outlined in the petition, a pattern of concerning events involving Okonjo and his younger brother were uncovered.

Both were accused of theft in the United States in the 1990s, and both, it was learned , failed to attend court hearings, resulting in bail forfeitures.

At the time of his 1995 arrest, Okonjo was living with his sister, now  World Trade Organization 

Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, in Chevy Chase, Maryland.

Okonjo was subsequently convicted and sentenced in 1997, with his younger brother, Onyema facing similar charges and sentencing in 1998, although it is unclear if either brother served their sentences or returned to Nigeria before completion.

The allegations against Okonjo come at a time of heightened tension in Ogwashi-Uku, where some residents claim the traditional ruler’s actions threaten the peace and stability of the community.

They expressed concern that the community risks descending into lawlessness if unresolved issues remain.

In response to the allegations, Okonjo’s palace secretary, Ifeakanachukwu Emordi dismissed the reports of the theft conviction as untrue, stating that Okonjo would address the claims publicly soon.

The traditional ruler’s brother, Onyema Okonjo also refuted the petitioners’ stance, stating that they do not represent the community and clarifying that, according to Ogwashi-Uku’s customs, all land in the area is held in trust by the traditional ruler.

He described the land-related accusations as a misunderstanding of the community’s tenure system, emphasizing that the Obi does not have to grab any land that is already under his custody.

He also supported an SSS investigation into the vigilante groups and other matters raised in the petition.

In response to the escalating situation, the Delta State Government has taken steps to investigate.

PSC Monitors In Akure To Ensure Credibility Of Ondo Governorship Election Security -Argungu says Police must be firm and polite

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By Ebinum Samuel

Police Service Commission Staff Monitors have arrived Ondo State to monitor the conduct of Police Officers on electoral duties during Saturday’s Governorship election in the state.

The Staff Monitors are in Ondo State to ensure that the Police conduct themselves within approved rules and regulations and in line with established rules of engagement.

The Commission Monitors are expected to be in all the Local government areas in the state.

Commission Chairman, DIG Hashimu Argungu rtd mni charged PSC Ambassadors to also conduct themselves creditably and not succumb to pressure and dilute the essence of the assignment. He said the Commission will continue to contribute to the sustenance and deepening of the nation’s democratic process.

The PSC Chairman said holding the Police accountable for its actions and inactions during the election will promote greater dedication to duty by the Officers and generally ensure the success of the elections.

He charged the Officers to be firm but friendly and polite to the electorate stressing that they must ensure that the voters, the voting materials and the voting environment are protected and safe. He said the Police as the lead Agency in internal security which includes election security must play a leadership role in ensuring a free, fair and credible election in Ondo State.

The Commission had on Monday, November 11th 2024 conducted a workshop on election security monitoring at its Parry Osayande Auditorium where CP Balarabe Nayaya rtd, the Technical Assistant to the Chairman presented a paper to the travelling Monitors.

Cp Nayaya said the Monitors must be knowledgeable on the operations of Police men on electoral duties to be able to meaningfully monitor their conduct . He presented a brief on what the Police men on election duties should do and not do and advised that the Monitors should be guided by the brief while on the assignment.

Meanwhile the Commission, through spokesman, Ikechukwuu Ani, has provided dedicated telephone numbers for Nigerians to call to complain or commend the conduct of the Police during the election. The numbers are;
Ondo central -08033148814
Ondo South -08065265651
Ondo North
-07046756445
Media Coordination
-08033345362