By Ebinum Samuel
Photos From Passing Out Parade Of Recruits For 2022/2023 At Police Training School in Ogida, Benin City, Edo State.
The Ceremony Was Reviewed On Behalf Of The Inspector-General Of Police, Mr Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun By AIG Salman Garba Dogo Of Zone 5 , Benin City.
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has faulted President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for retaining Uche Nnaji, the Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation, despite mounting allegations that the academic certificates he presented for his appointment were forged.
The party’s criticism follows an investigative report by PREMIUM TIMES, which alleged that Nnaji did not complete his university education and that both his bachelor’s degree and National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) certificates submitted to the President, the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Senate were falsified.
The ADC described the development as a blow to the government’s credibility, calling on President Tinubu to take immediate action to preserve the integrity of his administration.
A federal high court in Abuja had also dismissed a request by the minister to stop the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), from releasing his academic records.
In a statement issued on Monday, Bolaji Abdullahi, the national publicity secretary of the ADC, said the party was not surprised by Tinubu’s silence on the revelation, describing it as further proof of the administration’s “tolerance for corruption”.
Abdullahi said it is a disservice to the nation that a ministry responsible for innovation and research is being led by someone with “dubious credentials”.
“The African Democratic Congress (ADC) is not surprised that despite mounting evidence and public outrage, the minister of science, technology, and innovation, Mr Uche Nnaji, remains in office after being accused and subsequently admitting that the certificates he presented were not issued by the relevant institutions and may have been forged,” the statement reads.
The ADC spokesperson said the case is not an isolated incident but part of a “long, public, and familiar record” of certificate scandals involving senior officials in the All Progressives Congress (APC) government.
“These recurring scandals and the persistent stench of certificate forgery are indeed reflective of a party that is foundationally accommodating of deceit and clearly unbothered by basic ethical considerations,” he added.
“If the minister is not honourable enough to resign, why is the Tinubu administration still keeping him in office?
By refusing to act, the Tinubu government and the APC are admitting their complicity in such fraudulent conduct at the highest levels of their government and making a mockery of their claims to be fighting corruption.”
Abdullahi said governance must begin with integrity and credibility, adding that Nigerians cannot trust a government “populated by people who have lied under oath about their qualifications”.
“A ministry whose mandate is to drive innovation, research, and the advancement of knowledge is now tainted by the dubious credentials of the man that President Tinubu has found fit to serve,” he said.
The opposition party called for Nnaji’s immediate suspension pending an independent investigation, adding that if found guilty, he should face prosecution for forgery and perjury.
Certificate forgery is not a clerical error; it is a crime. If proven, it must attract the full weight of the law,” Abdullahi said.
He said the senate and the Department of State Services (DSS) should review their vetting procedures for ministerial nominees.
“A senate that has obliged itself unreservedly to the will of the president is liable to fail in its duty to the people,” he added.
The Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, has dismissed recent reports casting doubt on the authenticity of his academic qualifications.
Speaking through his spokesperson, Dr. Robert Ngwu, Nnaji, who serves in President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet, confirmed that the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) officially issued him a degree certificate confirming his graduation in 1985.
Addressing journalists in Abuja on Monday, the minister described the allegations of certificate forgery as “deliberate misinformation”, asserting that they were politically motivated and spread through the media to tarnish his reputation.
Let me state clearly and for the record: Chief Uche Nnaji is a proud alumnus of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), having graduated in July 1985 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Microbiology/Biochemistry, with Second Class (Honours) Lower Division,” Ngwu said.
Reports had stated that Nnaji admitted that the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, never issued him a degree certificate.
According to the report, Nnaji made the admission in court documents filed before Justice Hauwa Yilwa of the Federal High Court in Abuja.
The minister had instituted a suit against the Minister of Education, the National Universities Commission (NUC), the University of Nigeria, its Vice-Chancellor, Professor Simon Ortuanya, the Registrar, a former Acting Vice-Chancellor, Professor Oguejiofor Ujam, and the university’s Senate.
The court filings confirm that Nnaji personally acknowledged not having been issued a certificate by the institution.
In his verifying affidavit supporting a motion ex parte, Nnaji recounted that he was admitted in 1981 to study Microbiology/Biochemistry and claimed to have completed the programme in 1985.
However, in paragraph 13 of the affidavit, he confessed that he had never collected any certificate from the university.
The letter, signed by UNN Registrar Celine Nnebedum and sent to the People’s Gazette, has since been invalidated.
In May 2025, Mrs Nnebedum wrote to the Public Complaints Commission (PCC), stating that the university searched its 1985 graduation records but could not find Mr Nnaji’s name.
Similarly, UNN Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ortuanya, confirmed in a letter dated October 3, 2025, and addressed to PREMIUM TIMES that “Mr Nnaji did not complete his studies and was never awarded a degree by the university.”
But Nnaji, through his spokesperson Ngwu, made a U-turn and insisted, “That fact is not in doubt. It is documented in the University’s own records, acknowledged in its official correspondence, and reflected in its 1985 Convocation Brochure, which remains part of UNN’s permanent archives.”
According to Ngwu, the only valid letter issued by the university confirming Nnaji’s credentials was dated December 21, 2023, and was duly signed by Mrs. I.A.S. Onyeador for the Registrar, Dr. (Mrs.) Celine Ngozi Nnebedum.
“The only authentic letter issued by the University of Nigeria on this matter is the one dated 21 December 2023, duly stamped and signed by Mrs I.A.S. Onyeador for the Registrar, Dr. (Mrs) Celine Ngozi Nnebedum.
“That official communication, written in response to People’s Gazette inquiry, confirmed that: ‘Mr Geoffrey Uchechukwu Nnaji, with registration number 1981/30725, was admitted in 1981 to study Microbiology/Biochemistry and graduated in July 1985 with a Bachelor of Science, Second Class (Honours) Lower Division,’” Ngwu said.
The minister questioned the emergence of another letter in May 2025, purportedly from UNN, claiming there were no records of Nnaji’s graduation.
He said, “That was the official position of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, properly stamped, duly issued, and still valid.
“Two years later, in May 2025, a purported letter surfaced, allegedly written by the University, suddenly claiming that there were “no records” of the Minister’s graduation.
“The question every Nigerian should ask is simple and logical: What changed between December 2023 and May 2025 – apart from the fact that two card-carrying members of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) suddenly emerged as Acting Vice Chancellor and then Vice Chancellor of the University?
“It is on that same political foundation that Premium Times built its false story.”
Nnaji further argued that by academic convention, the Registrar, not the Vice Chancellor, is the custodian of all examination and graduation records, accusing the university’s leadership of “political overreach.”
“By academic convention worldwide, the Registrar, not the Vice Chancellor, is the custodian of all examination and graduation records.
“Any attempt by a Vice Chancellor to assume that role is an aberration in university protocol and, in this case, an obvious political overreach,” Ngwu added.
Ngwu confirmed that the minister took legal action at the Federal High Court, Abuja, under Suit No: FHC/ABJ/CS/1909/2025.
According to him, presided over by Justice H.J. Yilwa, the court on September 22, 2025, According to him, presided over by Justice H.J. Yilwa, the court on September 22, 2025, granted protective orders restraining UNN’s management from tampering with Nnaji’s academic records and compelling the release of his transcript.
However, Ngwu did not mention that in paragraph 13 of his affidavit, Nnaji confessed that he had never collected any certificate from the university, as reported.
“An order of mandamus compelling the University to release his academic transcript, and a directive to the supervising authorities to ensure compliance through their disciplinary powers.
“These are not speculative claims; they are certified orders of the Federal High Court of Nigeria,” Ngwu said.
“That alone should settle the matter.Unfortunately, instead of adhering strictly to the valid court order, the Vice Chancellor, a lawyer by profession, resorted to cyberbullying and a politically motivated media trial against Chief Uche Nnaji.”
The minister accused “political actors and paid media platforms” of orchestrating a campaign to tarnish his reputation.
“It is increasingly clear that this entire episode is not about education or integrity; it is about political desperation, disguised as academic inquiry,” Ngwu continued.
“The timing, the sources, the false documents, and the paid narratives all point to a coordinated campaign to drag a reputable public servant into the mud of partisan politics.”
Reaffirming his academic credentials, Nnaji maintained that he remains focused on his ministerial duties.
“But Nigerians are wiser than that. The facts are before the courts, the documents are public, and the truth cannot be buried under political propaganda.
“The Honourable Minister remains focused on his work and mandate, advancing innovation, building Nigeria’s science and technology capacity, and restoring the nation’s confidence in research-driven industrial growth,” Ngwu stated.
“He will not be distracted by lies or by those who weaponise institutions and media platforms for political gain.”
Ngwu called on the University of Nigeria to “uphold its proud motto, To Restore the Dignity of Man,” and distance itself from what he described as political manipulation.
Ngwu stated, “Let it be on record that: The Honourable Minister, Chief Geoffrey Uche Nnaji, graduated from UNN in 1985.
“The University officially confirmed this in writing in December 2023. It’s reflected in its 1985 Convocation Brochure, which remains part of UNN’s permanent archives.
“Any other claim or document to the contrary is false, malicious, and politically motivated.
“We call on the University of Nigeria to uphold its proud motto, ‘To Restore the Dignity of Man.
“It must reclaim its integrity by distancing itself from political manipulation and reaffirming the authenticity of its own official record.
“This is not just about one man’s academic record; it is about protecting truth, preserving institutional honour, and ensuring that no university in Nigeria ever becomes a pawn in partisan politics.
“The truth is simple, the record is clear, and the law is now on the side of justice.”
(SaharaReporters)
By Ebinum Samuel
One of the nation’s gallant cop, AIG Ishola Olanrewaju Olawale, the immediate past Lagos state commissioner of Police will disengage from the Nigeria Police Force, NPF, on Saturday 18th October, 2025.
Retiring after 33 years of selfless service, and, upon attaining the statutory 60 years of age on this date, Ishola will be highly remembered by police officers and Lagosians for his uncommon, uncompromising crime-fighting and policing styles.
To commemorate this epoch-making event, a Pull-Out Ceremony has been slated for 0900hrs that day at the Police College Parade Ground in Ikeja, Lagos . Similiarly, a special package reception for his birthday celebration will take place same day at Iceland Event Center ( by Gowon Police Station) in Gowon Estate, Egbeda.
Ishola achieved tremendously as a DPO in charge of no fewer than seven police stations in Lagos state. He did performed similiar feat while on tour of duty at Sabongida Ora and Benin City in Edo state.
In his service years, he was at a time the Area Commander in charge of Area L in Ishashi, Lagos. As DCP, he was at Zone 2 as the DCP in charge of Operations. Upon his elavation to CP, he was deployed to Police Port Authority (PAP) in Lagos. In September last year, the police high command found him worthy to be deployed to Lagos as the head of over 20,000 policemen and women in the state. For the short period he was CP Lagos, the people of the state were delighted by his proactive policing method. On elevation to AIG, he was deployed to force headquarters in Abuja.
One of the legacies Lagosians will remember him for as a cop who abhors compromising his official duties, is that as CP Lagos, he descended on various parts of the state where drug peddling was known to exist. One of such places is 31 Road on Gowon Estate in Egbeda. For several years, miscreants openly peddled hard drug to residents and visitors’ discomfort and dismay. But, on assumption of office as CP Lagos, Ishola swiftly dislodged the dealers and addicts in this place.
However, drug peddlers have since relocated to a nearby street ( Wale Omo Osho), soon as Ishola was redeployed to PAP from Lagos state police command.
Married with children and a grand-child, Ishola from Ibadan, in Oyo state, is a 1992 Cadet ASP.
By Ebinum Samuel
The *Campaign for Good Governance in Kogi State, (CGGK),* has received the news of the recent establishment of a committee to canvas the endorsement for reelection of President Bola Tinubu and Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Ododo. The said committee is headed by Senator Smart Adeyemi who represented Kogi West Senatorial Zone for three terms in the upper legislature. The power structure in Kogi State since 2016 has conveniently alienated Kogi West from the top two political leadership positions in the last decade. Instructively, however, it finds Kogi West sufficiently pliable to lead the joint charge for the reelection of President Tinubu and Governor Ododo.
*CGGK* notes that without a doubt, President Tinubu has earned his stripes for reelection come the 2027 general elections. His imprimatur is to be found across major developmental indices. From committing a whopping 95% of national earnings to debt servicing, the burden has reduced to 69% in less than two and half years of the Tinubu administration. Gross Domestic Product, (GDP) for the second quarter of 2025, grew by an impressive 4.23%, the best performance in about five years, inspired by increased oil production, agricultural and industrial activities.
Much more resources have been conscientiously availed the subnationals under the Tinubu government, to inspire development at the various strata of governance. In September, the Federation Account Allocation Committee, (FAAC), disbursed a landmark N2.2Trillion to the three tiers of government. About 600,000 young Nigerians have benefitted from the students’ loan scheme of the Tinubu dispensation, a restatement of the President’s resolve on human capital development. Gradually, the country is witnessing an infrastructural revamp after decades of minimal attention to basic enablers of socioeconomic growth.
While President Tinubu has been able to chalk up these milestones against all odds, *CGGK* notes with painful concern that the same cannot be said of the Ododo government in Kogi State. The system remains inalienably tied to the apron strings of the puppeteer, Yahaya Bello, the immediate past Governor and proxy administrator, who directs state affairs from his multiple addresses in Abuja the federal capital. Thirty-four years after the creation of the entity, Kogi State does not in anyway compare with its peers, some of which have earned much less resources over the same period. Rather, the state is a graphic epitome of mass plunder and blatant rape, wilful neglect and unconcerned abandonment.
*State resources are reportedly butchered and shared by a quartet of buccaneers, the top two retaining as much as N2.5Billion each, on a monthly basis. It has been suggested, that the Commissioner for Local Government, and the Accountant-General of the State, receive monthly stipends of N300million and N1Billion respectively. A substantial quantum of this kill, comes from funds allocated to the 21 local government areas in the state, which often averages N600million per local government council, per month. Figurehead council Chairmen are allegedly credited with a monthly imprest of N4million to help them posture as pseudo-bigmen in their localities.*
*CGGK* observes that this partly explains the reality of zero governance at the local government level, where Chairmen cannot as much as motivate security personnel to stand up to rampaging bandits, let alone effect salutary remediation on infrastructure under their watch. With errant, thieving governance in Lugard House, Lokoja, archaic hospitals, schools, boreholes, earth roads, culverts and drains, cannot be expected to be functional. This is the tragedy of local government administration in Kogi State under the subsisting state leadership template.
As it stands today, *CGGK* notes that except for the *Audit House* on the Crusher Road, which is already falling apart before completion in Lokoja the state capital, the Ododo government in nearly two years has nothing to show. Which explains its desperation to latch onto the tailcoat of President Tinubu’s profile. *CGGK* challenges the Ododo government to point to landmark road projects it is executing outside of Ebiraland in any of the other non-Ebira-speaking local councils and communities in the state. Ododo should identify a major, modern water scheme it is erecting anywhere, or rural electrification infrastructure, or notable school or hospital rehabilitation works.
*CGGK* admonishes *Ododo to note that he will be assessed by his tangible, visible performance, in the provision of patriotic leadership; honest and accountable governance; enthroning functional and sustainable security across the state, and paying local government administrations their statutory dues as appropriated in the books by the federal government.* One million committees prospecting endorsement for Ododo on the horseback of the President will not secure endorsement and continuity for unimaginable cluelessness and grand failure. Ododo has two more years of his first term to serve. He should peep over his shoulders to see what his colleagues in Abia, Anambra, Enugu, Delta, even Osun have done in their first terms thus far and how a multiplicity of political parties are freely offering them platforms for their second terms.
*SIGNED*
*Comrade Sadiq Maiwuka*
Chairman
*Elder David Kupolati*
Vice-Chairman
*Captain Patrick Baiye, (rtd)*
Publicity Secretary
*Dr Stephen Ogu*
General Secretary
*Hon Abu Zekeri*
Youth Leader
By Ebinum Samuel
The Chairman of the Police Service Commission, DIG Hashimu Argungu (Rtd), mni, has congratulated the new Police Constables who are scheduled to passout today from the various Police Colleges across the country, describing the event as a proud moment for Nigeria and the Nigeria Police Force.
The PSC Chairman noted that the Police Service Commission, constitutionally mandated to recruit into the Nigeria Police Force, is proud to have overseen their admission into the noble profession of policing. He reminded the new Constables that the Commission will continue to monitor their conduct and performance as they serve their fatherland, urging them to quickly settle into their responsibilities.
According to a press statement signed by Ikechukwu Ani, the Commission’s spokesman, DIG Argungu charged the recruits to contribute meaningfully to the fight against terrorism, assist in securing communities from banditry, and strengthen the bond of trust between the Police and the Nigerian people.
He emphasized that professionalism, discipline, and respect for human rights must remain the foundation of their service.
He assured them of the Commission’s commitment to their career progression, and capacity building, adding that the nation is counting on them to protect lives and property, uphold justice, and defend the integrity of Nigeria.
“Today marks the beginning of your noble career in service to your fatherland. I urge you to serve with honour, courage, and patriotism. Your success will bring pride to your families, the Police Force, and our great nation,” the Chairman declared.
Nigeria – October 5, 2025: Access Bank has reinforced its drive for inclusive development by hosting a rural health outreach in Ikotun, Lagos, under its “One Bank, One Continent – Together for Health” campaign. The outreach is part of the Bank’s wider ESG and CSI commitments to improving quality of life and driving real impact across Africa.The outreach, held recently, delivered free medical services and essential relief materials to over 300 residents of Ikotun. Services ranged from general health screenings and consultations to the distribution of vital supplies aimed at addressing both immediate healthcare needs and encouraging long-term wellness in the community.Speaking on the impact of the programme, Esther Graham, Programme Lead, Health, Access Holdings, said: “At Access Bank, we believe access to quality healthcare is a basic human right.
Through the ‘One Bank, One Continent – Together for Health’ campaign, we are going beyond business to create real impact. This initiative not only meets urgent health needs, but also strengthens our commitment of building healthier, more resilient communities across Africa.”The programme was marked by collaboration and community spirit, as healthcare professionals, volunteers, and Access Bank staff worked side by side to serve the people of Ikotun. The atmosphere was filled with gratitude, with many beneficiaries highlighting the life-changing value of the outreach.Mrs. Adeola Akinyemi, a local resident and beneficiary, shared her appreciation:“This programme has brought hope to families in Ikotun. Many of us rarely have access to proper medical services, and today Access Bank has shown that big organisations can truly care for the communities they serve. We are deeply grateful.”This initiative is a clear reflection of Access Bank’s purpose-driven approach to business, which places equal emphasis on profit and positive impact. Beyond healthcare, the Bank continues to invest in programmes that advance education, financial inclusion, and environmental sustainability, reinforcing its role as a key driver of Africa’s long-term growth.
In a powerful and deeply moving birthday message, the retired Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG), Abiodun Sylvester Alabi, fdc, has paid glowing tribute to renowned businessman and philanthropist, Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan, describing him as “a legacy in motion” and a man whose life continues to inspire and uplift others across Nigeria and beyond.
In a letter filled with warmth and admiration, DIG Alabi hailed Dr. Ogunsan’s enduring commitment to service, leadership, and societal development, noting that his life’s journey reflects “uncommon vision, passionate dedication, and unwavering commitment.”
“It is a rare privilege to know you, and an even greater honour to be able to call you a friend and brother,” DIG Alabi wrote, commending Dr. Ogunsan’s steadfast dedication to youth empowerment, education, and community-focused philanthropy.
The top police official lauded Dr. Ogunsan’s extensive work with the Lagos State Security Trust Fund, as well as his numerous private initiatives that have brought tangible change to underserved communities. According to him, Dr. Ogunsan exemplifies “leadership with a human face,” using his influence not for personal gain, but to uplift others.
You are one of the few individuals whose integrity and generosity are evident not only in words but in action,” Alabi stated, highlighting Ogunsan’s deep compassion, empathy, and ability to connect with people from all walks of life.
Alabi’s tribute also delved into the personal, describing Dr. Ogunsan as a “dependable, loyal, and sincere” friend whose quiet strength and counsel have been invaluable over the years. He extended heartfelt prayers for continued strength, wisdom, and long life in good health for the celebrant.
“Dr. Ogunsan, you are not just a blessing to your generation — you are a legacy in motion,” the message concluded. “As you
celebrate today, know that you are deeply appreciated, profoundly respected, and genuinely loved.”
Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan, a prominent figure in both the public and private sectors, is known for his leadership in corporate governance, his strategic contributions to security initiatives in Lagos, and his passion for human capital development. His birthday celebration has drawn goodwill messages from a broad spectrum of society, underscoring his far-reaching impact and the respect he commands across Nigeria.
Declares open UNODC, ECOWAS backed workshop on NDCMP 2026-2030, tasks MDAs, stakeholders
By Ebinum Samuel
Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd) has charged all stakeholders involved in the ongoing development of the next National Drug Control Master Plan (NDCMP 2026-2030) to ensure that the strategy document addresses new and emerging threats that sustain the illicit drug trade in Nigeria.
Marwa gave the admonition on Monday 6th October 2025 in Niger state in his opening remarks at a five-day workshop to develop the fifth National Drug Control Master Plan for the country. The residential retreat is funded by the ECOWAS Commission and supported by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).
According to the NDLEA boss, “The task before us over the next few days is both strategic and historic. The drug problem continues to evolve, and so must our response. The NDCMP 2026–2030 must be visionary yet practical; comprehensive yet targeted; and nationally owned yet regionally and globally aligned. It must build on the achievements of the past while boldly addressing new and emerging threats, from synthetic drugs to dark-web trafficking, from poly-substance use to the illicit financial flows that sustain the drug trade.”
He reminded all the stakeholders that the workshop offers the rare opportunity to deliberate, analyse and agree on strategic priorities that will shape the trajectory of Nigeria’s response for the next five years. “It is here that we will identify what has worked, acknowledge the gaps, and design innovative pathways for the future”, he added.
He urged all participants to bring to bear their expertise, experience and commitment, adding that the workshop is not just about producing another document but about charting a collective vision to safeguard the health, security and wellbeing of Nigerians.
He reaffirmed the Agency’s readiness to provide leadership, coordination and technical support to ensure that the new Master Plan is not only developed but also effectively implemented. “I also pledge that we will continue to strengthen collaboration with our partners, both within Nigeria and across the ECOWAS sub-region, for we know that the drug challenge recognises no borders”, he stated.
He thanked ECOWAS Commission “for sponsoring this workshop, and all our partners — the European Union, UNODC, civil society organisations, professional bodies and the private sector — for their continued collaboration. Together, we are shaping a future where Nigeria and West Africa will be safer, healthier and more secure.”
Speaking at the workshop, UNODC Country Representative, Cheikh Ousmane who was represented by Dr. Akanidomo Ibanga commended Nigeria’s drug control efforts so far. “Yet, we are all aware that the drug situation continues to evolve. Global and regional dynamics — whether related to new psychoactive substances, organized crime networks, or the impact of conflict and economic pressures — all shape local realities. Our response must therefore be adaptive, coordinated, and inclusive. The Master Plan is the instrument through which this can happen.
“This workshop offers a unique opportunity to review the draft chapters, harmonize perspectives, and ensure that the priorities identified reflect both national realities and international standards, including those enshrined in the three international drug control conventions, the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and the African Union Plan of Action on Drug Control”, he stated.
While commending the leadership of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the Federal Ministry of Health, as well as all members of the inter-agency working groups, for the dedication and expertise they bring to the process, he said that their work will serve as a compass for coordinated action over the coming years.
Also speaking during the opening ceremony of the workshop, ECOWAS Commission Commissioner for Human Development and Social Affairs, Prof Fatou Sow Sarr represented by Dr. Daniel Amankwaah noted that Nigeria, as a key stakeholder in regional drug control efforts, has taken proactive steps to develop national strategies aligned with international best practices.
“The Nigeria’s current National Drug Control Master Plan (NDCMP) will expire this year and a new plan needs to be developed to address the emerging drug threats, trafficking patterns, and the increasing burden of substance use disorders. The new NDCMP will effectively respond to current and future drug-related challenges.
“The ECOWAS Commission, in line with its mandate to support Member States in addressing drug-related issues, is providing technical and financial assistance to Nigeria in the elaboration of the new NDCMP. This initiative aligns with the objectives of the ECOWAS Drug Prevention and Control Programme and the broader regional efforts to strengthen drug demand and supply reduction mechanisms.
“This support is a strategic step toward strengthening Nigeria’s drug control framework and aligning it with regional and international best practices. The ECOWAS Commission remains committed to supporting Nigeria in this effort, ensuring that the new National Drug Control Master Plan is robust, evidence-based, and effectively addresses the country’s drug-related challenges”, the ECOWAS Commission chief assured.
Other stakeholders who spoke at the ceremony include representatives of the Federal Ministries of Education, Health, Agriculture, Budget and Planning as well as NACA, NAFDAC, EFCC, and NFIU.
Police operatives in Edo State have arrested a middle-aged man identified as TJ for allegedly murdering his wife, Queen, in Auchi, Etsako West Local Government Area.
The tragic incident reportedly occurred on Tuesday, September 30, after the couple had celebrated their two-year-old son’s birthday. TJ was said to have attacked his wife with an axe and fled the scene afterward.
A resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the couple showed no sign of disagreement before the incident.
“There was no sign of a quarrel between them. We all went to bed that night, but by morning, neighbours didn’t see them come out and assumed they were still asleep.
It was their little boy who later came out of the room with bloodstains on his body. When people saw the stains and noticed he wasn’t injured, they rushed into the room and found the woman lying lifeless in a pool of blood, her throat slit,” the source said.
The witness added that the suspect had disappeared from the area immediately after the killing, prompting neighbours to alert the police.
The case was subsequently reported to the Auchi Police Division, which launched a manhunt that led to the suspect’s arrest.
Confirming the development, CSP Moses Yamu, spokesperson for the Edo Police Command, said the suspect has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID) for further interrogation.
The suspect has been apprehended and moved to the State CID for proper investigation,” Yamu said.
