Thursday, July 7, 2022

Ekweremadu, wife appear in court, plead not guilty to alleged organ harvesting

Former Deputy Senate President, Senator Ike Ekweremadu and his wife, Beatrice, have appeared at Westminster Magistrate Court this Thursday for the continuation of their trial.

The lawmaker and his wife pleaded not guilty to the charges of human trafficking and organ harvesting in the United Kingdom. 

The court accepted that the kidney donor in Ekweremadu’s case is 21 years old not a minor as earlier claimed.

Ekweremadu and his wife, Beatrice were arrested by the British police on June 23 on allegations of human trafficking and organ harvesting that violate the country’s Modern Slavery Act.

The police authorities had accused the lawmaker of conspiring to bring a child to the United Kingdom for organ harvesting, saying the victim was a 15-year-old boy.

The court thereafter fixed August 4 as the date for the next hearing.

The Federal High Court Abuja yesterday had ordered the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) to transmit the Certified True Copy (CTC) of the biodata information of an alleged Minor to the Attorney General of the Federation for onward transmission to the UK to aid Ekweremadu’s trial.

Ekweremadu’s lawyer, Adegboyega Awomolo, SAN, had on July 27 urged Justice Inyang Ekwo to order the release of certain official documents of Ukpo domiciled with NIMC, Nigerian Immigration Service, and Stanbic-IBTC Bank for the purpose of effectively defending Ekweremadu in the UK.

The prayers were granted by Justice Inyang Ekwo.


MTN Cameroon partners LigaData to implement data analytics and Al solution

MTN Cameroon in partnership with LigaData, has announced the adoption of a new data analytics and AI platform to drive its digital transformation plans. 

In a press released made available to newsmen, the Chief Technology & Information Systems Officer at MTN Cameroon, Reuben Opata, said the new solution will unify and correlate mobile operator and subscriber data into a single 360-degree view and enables real-time decisioning with LigaData’s Data Fabric and Flare products.

Opata disclosed that MTN Cameroon becomes the thirteenth MTN Operating Company to implement the innovative technology solution with the support of strategic data partner LigaData, adding that the business looks to build on the success of its fellow OpCos, offering more advanced mobile money products, optimizing network resources and enhancing customer experience.

According to him, the partnership that was dated back to 2018, has already seen great advancement in leveraging new technologies to support real-time decision-making, improve data quality, and provide AI capabilities at scale.

“Accelerating MTN Cameroon’s Digital Transformation agenda is a top priority and leveraging Data is a critical part of that mission.

“Implementing our new data platform in partnership with LigaData will not only create business efficiencies but provide superior day-to-day experiences for our loyal customers,” Opata disclosed.

In his own reaction, the Chief Revenue Officer at LigaData, Darya Nasr, said, “MTN Cameroon has many exciting plans to introduce innovative digital services to its customers. 

“We’re thrilled our products and services are assisting MTN Cameroon to utilize data and analytics even further to support their data-driven digital transformation ambitions.”


Wednesday, July 6, 2022

Presidency confirms attack on Buhari's convoy

The Presidency has confirmed the attack on President Muhammadu Buhari's convoy in Katsina State, describing the act as sad and unwelcome.

The attack occurred in Dutsinma, about 152 kilometres from Buhari’s hometown of Daura.

Confirming the unfortunate incident, presidential spokesman Garba Shehu said the convoy included an advance team of security guards, protocol and media officers ahead of the president's trip to Daura for Sallah.

The attackers opened fire on the convoy from ambush positions but were repelled by the military, police and DSS personnel accompanying the convoy. 

Two persons in the convoy are receiving treatment for the minor injuries they suffered. All the other personnel, staff and vehicles made it safely to Daura.


Kuje prison attack: 64 Boko Haram members escaped – Defence Minister

The Minister of Defence, Bashir Magashi, on Wednesday, disclosed that all the 64 members of Boko Haram terrorists cooling their heads in Kuje prison have fled the facility after it was attacked on Tuesday.

Gunmen had stormed the facility on Tuesday, with explosions and gunshots heard from the direction of the correctional centre located in Abuja, the nation’s capital.

Interacting with journalists on Wednesday in Abuja, Magashi said there are strong indications that terrorists invaded the facility to free their members being held in detention.

He told the newsmen that the Federal Government is working hard to ensure that other fleeing inmates were being recaptured and kept back in the facility.

“Most likely, they are Boko Haram because we have a sizeable number of Boko Harams that are in detention.

“Presently, we could not locate any of them. I think there are about 64 Boko Haram (members) in prison, they have all escaped,” he revealed.

Noting that the situation is under control, he said the correctional centre could accommodate 994 prison inmates.

Of the figure, the Defence Minister said the government has been able to track down 600 inmates who have been recaptured.

He stated further that before the end of the day, many more inmates still hiding would be rearrested and sent back to the facility.


Amid Kuje prison attack, Buhari jets out to Senegal

President Muhammadu Buhari will on Wednesday, depart Abuja for Dakar, the Senegalese capital to participate in the International Development Association for Africa Summit.

The trip comes barely 24 hours after a convoy of cars carrying the Advance Team of security guards, protocol and media officers ahead of the President’s trip to Daura for Sallah, came under terrorist attack.

According to a statement signed on Wednesday by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu, the President is expected to join other African leaders in an open Dialogue on Development Challenges and priorities as well as transformational initiatives that will lead to an outcome document, the Dakar Declaration.

The statement is titled ‘President Buhari to attend international development association for Africa summit in Dakar.’

It reads in part, “An institution of the World Bank Group, IDA is deepening its support to drive a resilient recovery for countries hit by the global crises of climate and COVID -19, growing levels of insecurity and more recently, by the impact of the war in Ukraine through its historic $93 billion 20th replenishment cycle which goes into effect between July 1, 2022, and June 30, 2025.

“At the High-Level event slated for Thursday, July 7, and hosted by President Macky Sall of the Republic of Senegal, President Buhari is expected to join other African leaders in an open Dialogue on Development Challenges and priorities as well as transformational initiatives that will lead to an outcome document, the Dakar Declaration.

“This commitment is expected to chart the way forward for the transformation of the economies of these nations in partnership with the World Bank/IDA.” 

Topics slated for discussion include: Financing for Recovery and Economic Transformation in Africa; Agriculture, Livestock and Food Security; Human Capital; Digital and Technological Innovation; and Energy Transition and Climate Change.

The President will be accompanied on the trip by the Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Geoffery Onyeama; Finance, Budget, and National Planning, Zainab Ahmed; as well as Industry, Trade and Investment, Adeniyi Adebayo.

Others in the entourage are the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Godwin Emefiele; Director-General, National Intelligence Agency, Ahmed Abubakar; Director-General, Debt Management Office, Patience Oniha; and the Managing Director of the Bank of Industry, Olukayode Pitan.

Buhari is expected back in the country at the end of the Summit on Thursday, July 7.


I prefer younger and competent running mate – Obi

The Presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, on Wednesday, opened up on his choice of running mate, saying he preferred a younger and competent person as vice-presidential candidate.

The former Anambra State governor stated this while featuring on Arise TV Morning Show.

He added that he prefers a younger person who has something to offer to complement his ticket rather than recycling old hands who had been in the government before now.

When asked to clarify social media rumours that he had picked the Director of Publicity and Advocacy of Northern Elders Forum, Dr. Baba-Ahmed, as his vice-presidential candidate, Obi noted that though consultations are ongoing, he was yet to pick a running mate.

He said, “We’re talking to a quite number of people and Hakeem Baba-Ahmed is a capable hand. But I wish I can work with somebody who is more younger.

“I prefer younger people who have a lot to offer rather than recycling old hands. I want a competent person and I am building a formidable team.

“I want people who can look me in the eye and disagree with me during cabinet meetings. People who have their own minds and ideas.


JUST INN: OPEC Secretary-General, Barkindo, dies at 63

The Secretary-General of the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries, Muhammad Barkindo, is dead.

Barkindo, born on 20th of April, 1959  died late Tuesday at age of 63.

The Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, Mele Kyari, announced Barkindo’s death in a tweeted posted to his verified Twitter handle, @MKKyari, in the early hours of Wednesday.

“We lost our esteemed Dr Muhammad Sanusi Barkindo. He died at about 11pm yesterday 5th July 2022. Certainly a great loss to his immediate family, the NNPC, our country Nigeria, the OPEC and the global energy community. Burial arrangements will be announced shortly,” Kyari tweeted.

President Muhammadu Buhari, had on Tuesday, honoured Barkindo, describing him as a worthy ambassador of the country, at the State House, Abuja

Reacting to Barkindo’s death, a former lawmaker in the eighth Assembly, Senator Shehu Sani, tweeted to his Twitter page, “Muhammad Sanusi Barkindo, former GMD NNPC and until recently, @OPECSecretariat scribe, was honoured yesterday. He died 11pm yesternight. May Allah grant him Aljanna firdausi. Amin. That is the ephemerality and transience of life.”


PDP crisis deepens as Wike rejects one-on-one parley with Atiku

The crisis rocking the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP) over the choice of Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa as the party’s running mate to the party’s presidential flag bearer, took another turn yesterday as the River State Governor Nyesom Wike rejected the possibility of one-on-one meeting with Alhaji Atiku Abubakar.

Governor Wike said Atiku should engage his team for peace talks on the terms proposed to the party, particularly the resignation of the national chairman, Dr. Iyorchia Ayu.

Although the Board of Trustees (BoT) Chairman, Senator Walid Jibrin, had suggested that Atiku should lead a reconciliation team to Wike, who also contested for the presidential ticket at the primary, the governor indicated that he would rely on the advisory from his “Strategy Team”.

It was learnt that emissaries have traced Wike to Turkey where he was on vacation while Atiku’s lobbyists were said to have offered Petroleum Minister’s portfolio to him, if Atiku is elected in next year’s election.

Also yesterday, a BoT member, Waziri Adamu, suggested that Wike should be appointed as Director-General of the Atiku Abubakar Campaign Organisation.

A source said Wike, who has returned from Turkey, has foreclosed a one-on-one meeting with Atiku, citing lack of faith in any personal agreement with the candidate, instead of reconciliation talks with Atiku by his team.

The source said: “There is no likelihood of Wike having one-on-one private discussion with Atiku. Shortly after the primary, the governor had a side meeting with Atiku in Abuja and nothing was adhered to.

“He was shocked that Atiku has not told Nigerians what transpired between him and Wike after the primary and how he arrived at Governor Ifeanyi Okowa as a running mate.

“Since there was no full disclosure, Wike has directed that fresh talks with Atiku should be with his strategy team members, who will come up with an advisory for him.”

Wike’s strategists include Governors Seyi Makinde (Oyo) and Samuel Ortom (Benue); ex-governors Hassan Dankwambo (Gombe); Ayodele Fayose (Ekiti) and Donald Duke (Cross River), among others.

On what transpired between Atiku and Wike, the source said: “You can also crosscheck what I will tell you from the camp of the ex-VP. Following the euphoria of winning the primary, Atiku visited Wike to seek his support,

“He promised to make him a vice presidential candidate. Wike said he does not want the office, but that Atiku should consider ex-Governor Donald Duke. Atiku and his supporters prevailed on Wike to be his running mate.

“There was much pressure on Wike to agree to the offer. A 17-man committee was also set up by the leadership of the party and 14 of the 17 members recommended Wike as Atiku’s running mate.

“The party leadership later raised a kangaroo committee (with Ayu as a member), which claimed that the party can only recommend three candidates to Atiku to pick. And it was obvious to Wike and his team that there was a predetermined candidate.

“You can see the lines of insincerity and lack of faith to talks. This explains why Wike shut his doors against Atiku.

However, Atiku is still said to be hopeful about reconciliation with Wike.”

It was gathered that five items may dominate Atiku’s interaction with Wike and the outcome of the parley may determine the fate of PDP and its chances in 2023.

Explanation by Ayu and Atiku for abandoning the recommendations of a search committee for vice presidential candidate;

Restructuring of the party, including the removal of the national chairman,

Adherence to power rotation between the North and South,

Intra-party inclusion and

Offers on the table for Wike’s camp if Atiku wins the presidential poll.

A former governor said: “The crux of the matter is that Atiku’s camp has not made significant offers to assuage Wike and his group. The only thing on the card was a proposal to make Wike the Minister of Petroleum Resources if Atiku is elected.

“This infuriated Wike who said a ministerial appointment was not far-reaching. He said he had been a minister before and he is not aspiring to be a minister.

“Instead, Atiku and his men have been cleverly working on a winner takes all formula in a party where everyone is equal,” the source disclosed.

Source: The Nation


Tuesday, July 5, 2022

2023: Peter Obi is a scam, is going nowhere – Asari Dokubo

Ex-militant leader Asari Dokubo has described the presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) as a scam defrauding Nigerians with lies.

The founder of Niger Delta People’s Volunteer Force who  stated this  on Facebook via his Asari Dokubo Foundation Page, said the OBI-dient movement of the former Anambra Governor cannot succeed “because it is going nowhere”.

Dokubo claimed that Obi cannot square up to the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential candidate Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Atiku Abubakar in 2023.

He also queried Obi’s achievements as Governor, saying the money he saved was child’s play to what Rivers Governor Nyesom Wike spends.

Dokubo said: “There is a scammer in town. Peter Obi is a scamming people with lies and people are believing him.

“This is nauseating. Peter Obi was a governor of Anambra state for eight years.

“Anambra State is one of the advantageous states in Nigeria because of the people. They have Onitsha, Awka, Nnewi. These are the biggest goldmines in Nigeria after Lagos, Port Harcourt and Aba.

“They said he saved seventy-something billion. What is seventy-something billion? The money that Wike toys with in Rivers.

“How would you compare Obi with Tinubu or Atiku? What is his antecedent? Lies. You are showing documents. Who showed that you rejected the lands? All these small small [sic] scams, who dem wan do naw [sic]?”


Nollywood stars shower encomiums on Olu Jacobs ahead of 80th birthday

Nollywood stars like Yul Edochie, Femi Adebayo, and others have showered praises on industry veteran, Olu Jacobs, ahead of his 80th birthday.

Olu Jacobs, who will clock 80 on the 11th of July, 2022, is a seasoned actor who has starred in numerous Nigerian and British drama series and movies.

His actress wife and fellow veteran, Joke Silva, had hinted at his 80th birthday celebration on her Instagram page when she shared a throwback picture of her husband.

She captioned the photo on Monday, “Who has the foggiest idea who this handsome young man is? #80th birthday loading.”

The image was reposted on the aged actor’s Instagram page.

Following her post, various Nollywood stars has celebrated Jacobs on their social media pages.

Edochie wrote, “When I started my acting career in 2005, one of my biggest wishes was to be on set with the Legendary Uncle Olu Jacobs. I finally got that opportunity many times and I learnt so much from him. And I’ll forever be grateful.

“A very happy 80th birthday to you Sir. May God be with you always. We love you.”

Adebayo wrote on Instagram, “I celebrate a living legend of arts and entertainment on his 80th birthday. Pa Olu Jacobs is a leading light for many of us thriving in the trade of creativity.

“It is our prayers that God continues to bless your household exceedingly. Happy birthday icon.”

Saheed Balogun said, “Happy birthday to our greatest legend, Daddy Olu Jacobs, we are really proud of you Daddy".

National Waves Magazine honours Keyamo, Dangote Group, others at 14th Anniversary Awards

The Abuja based National Waves Newspaper/Magazine is celebrating its 14th year on the newsstands.

To commemorate the anniversary, the management of the Newspaper/Magazine has concluded arrangements to honour eminent Nigerians and industries.

Among personalities to honour at the anniversary include; the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Mr Festus Egwarewa Adeniyi Keyamo SAN; the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Delta North Senatorial candidate and founder of Prince Ned Nwoko Foundation, Prince Ned Nwoko; Presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Prince Adewole Adebayo, immediate past Enugu State Commissioner for Environment and Labour Party gubernatorial candidate, Hon. Chijioke Edeoga.

Others are; the Publisher Pointblank News and founder, Mary and Ude- Jack Foundation, Chief Jackson Ude, President of Institute of Debt Recovery Practitioners of Nigeria, Mr Chris Akintunde Opeodu, MD/CEO of Corporate Choices Nigeria Limited, Mr Chia Waya, Dangote Group and Julius Berger Nigeria Plc.

Mr. Festus Keyamo SAN, is expected to deliver a lecture on, “THE JUDICIARY AND THE 2023 ELECTION”, in the event which will take place on Saturday, July 23, 2022 at Airport Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos. 

The SDP presidential candidate, Prince Adewole Adebayo will also deliver a lecture entitled: “LET THE VOTE COUNT, THE IMPERATIVE OF FREE AND FAIR ELECTION.”

Speaking to the newsmen, the Publisher, Mr Jimmy Enyeh noted that the board and management of National Waves, nominated the recipients of the awards after a careful scrutiny of their immense contributions to the development of the country and service to humanity.

Monday, July 4, 2022

JULY 4 IN NIGERIAN HISTORY:

On July 4, 2007, Armed men kidnapped five foreigners in southern Nigeria, the same day the most prominent militant group announced it would end a truce with the government.

Also on this day 2008, hundreds (100) of soldiers who served as United Nation (UN) peacekeepers in Liberia went on rampage in Akure, protested against military authorities’ refusal to pay their allowances.


JULY 4 IN NIGERIAN HISTORY: President Obasanjo, Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi and other African leaders meet in Libya to deliberate on Africa unity

Nigeria's President Olusegun Obasanjo on July 4, 2005 called for "massive" financial aid to end African poverty and dismissed calls by Col Muammar Gaddafi for Africans to stop "begging".

Obasanjo who was the chairman of African Union (AU) spoke at a two-day G8 summit, told African leaders meeting in Libya that wealthy nations should extend a recent debt cancellation beyond the 14 countries that had benefited.

He said: "For Africa [to fight poverty] it will require not only the debt forgiveness but also a massive inflow of finance through repatriation of corruption-tainted funds in foreign banks, the fulfilment of commitments made by our development partners and new funds through investment."

But he admitted African leaders had to demonstrate "collective political will to undertake our own part for our 'upliftment'".

Chief Obasanjo's call for western aid contrasted sharply with that of his Libyan host, Col Gaddafi, who told the meeting that Africans had to rely on themselves. "Begging will not make the future of Africa," he declared.


Judge's absence halts Fayose's fraud trial

The money laundering trial of the former Governor of Ekiti State, Ayodele Fayose, was on Monday, stalled before a Federal High Court in Lagos as the trial court did not sit.

The trial, which was fixed for continuation on Monday, could not proceed as the trial judge, Justice Chukwujekwu Aneke, was said to be attending a conference.

A new date will now be agreed on by the parties in due course.

Fayose is being prosecuted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission for N6.9 billion fraud and money laundering charges.

He was first arraigned on October 22, 2018, before Justice Mojisola Olatotegun, alongside his company, Spotless Investment Ltd., on 11 counts bordering on fraud and money laundering offences.

He had pleaded not guilty to the charges and was granted bail on October 24, 2018, in the sum of N50 million with sureties in like sum.

The defendant was, however, subsequently, re-arraigned before Justice Chukwujekwu Aneke, on July 2, 2019, after the case was withdrawn from Justice Olatoregun, following the EFCC’s petition.

He had also pleaded not guilty to the charges and was allowed to continue on the earlier bail granted, while the case was adjourned for trial.

The commission has since opened its case before Justice Aneke and is still leading witnesses in evidence.

In December 2021, the EFCC had called its 11th witness, one Mrs Joanne Tolulope, who had narrated how Abiodun Agbele, an associate of Fayose, bought properties worth several millions of naira.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that during the trial before Justice Olatoregun, the prosecution had called witnesses, from several commercial banks, as well as a former Minister of State for Defence, Senator Musiliu Obanikoro.

According to the charge, on June 17, 2014, Fayose and one Abiodun Agbele were said to have taken possession of the sum of N1.2 billion, for purposes of funding his gubernatorial election campaign in Ekiti, which sum they reasonably ought to have known formed part of crime proceeds.

Fayose was alleged to have received a cash payment of the sum of five million dollars, (about N1.8 billion) from Obanikoro, without going through any financial institution.

He was also alleged to have retained the sum of N300 million in his account and took control of the aggregate sums of about N622 million, which sum, he reasonably ought to have known formed part of crime proceeds.

Fayose was alleged to have procured De Privateer Limited and Still Earth Limited to retain the aggregate sums of N851 million which they reasonably ought to have known formed part of crime proceeds.

Besides, the defendant was alleged to have used the aggregate sums of about N1.6 billion to acquire properties in Lagos and Abuja, which sums he reasonably ought to have known formed part of crime proceeds.

He was also alleged to have used N200 million to acquire a property in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory, in the name of a family member.

The offences contravene the provisions of sections 15(1), 15 (2), 15 (3), 16(2)(b), 16 (d), and 18 (c) of the Money Laundering Prohibition Act 2011.


Source: NAN


2023: Kwankwaso rules out possibility of LP winning election

The presidential candidate of the New Nigerian Peoples Party, NNPP, has said that the Labour Party, LP, cannot win any election given the present realities in Nigeria.

Kwankwaso, a former Kano State Governor, totally ruled out the possibility of the LP winning the presidential election in 2023. 

The NNPP presidential candidate, who spoke on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, and monitored by Primerosenews, Kwankwaso said, “I believe it is in the interest of the Labour Party and the NNPP, and even in the interest of this country, because LP, as it stands today, certainly cannot win an election.

Yes! It cannot win an election. 

“Because mainly, the support is mainly in a particular zone and not spread, and the figures there cannot earn anybody a presidential seat in this country,” Kwankwaso submitted.


REMINISCENCE: How Obasanjo removed me as PDP chairman - Ogbeh

Because I challenged President Olusegun Obasanjo on some of his policies, all of a sudden, he rushed down to my house unannounced, requested for pounded yam. 

He came with all the fully armed security agents you can think of. My family was in serious panicking mood. 

After the meal, he washed his hands and brought out a letter asking me to read and sign. 

As I was reading, I saw it was my Resignation Letter as the PDP Chairman written by Obasanjo himself, a drop of water fell from my eyes, as I looked up, the security guards moved closer, I requested to go inside and get a pen, Obasanjo instantly brought out a pen from his pocket, 'this is pen sign it immediately". 

I signed and he told me 'Chairman, you know that for what you said today, you shouldn't be my Chairman again..."

I remained dumb until he left. 

Thirty minutes after, he came again, I thought they wanted to kill me, I went to meet him outside, he brought out the letter and said 'you didn't put date there, oya write today's date below your signature'. I did and he left. 

It was a traumatic night for me and my family."

- Audu Ogbe


Courtesy of African History


Sunday, July 3, 2022

Man burns wife to death in Ogun

A man identified as Ponle Adebanjo has allegedly burnt his estranged wife to death after she left him over domestic violence.

The victim identified as Lateefat was reportedly burnt to death on Saturday in the Otun-Akute area of Ogun State by her estranged husband.

Confirming the incident to newsmen on Sunday, the Police Public Relation Officer in the state, DSP Abimbola Oyeyemi noted that the husband had been arrested since Saturday after the neighbours of the victim reported the incident. 

The statement read, “The suspect was arrested on Saturday after concerned neighbours reported the incident to the police at the Otun-Akute division.

“The estranged husband, Ponle, was reported to have told many people in the area that the wife had no right to live alone and vowed that no other man would be with her, after she left him due to physical abuse.

“The couple was  married for three years and resided in Otun-’Akute, until the woman, Lateefat, decided to leave him when she could no longer cope with the abuse.

“Mr Ponle was said to have gone to the residence of his ex-wife and threatened to kill her if she did not return to his house.

“Their neighbours explained that the man was fond of beating the woman, at times almost to a point of death. Their fights were said to have become a community matter as the woman was hospitalised on many occasions until she decided to pack out of his house, a month ago when she rented an apartment on the same street.

“Mr Ponle was said to have stalked the deceased’s movement to carry out his assault despite her avoiding him on many occasions and on Thursday last week, he went to her house and threatened to burn her alive but she managed to run away.

“Mr. Ponle went back to the victim’s house on Saturday night and met her praying. He poured petrol on her in the room and set her ablaze but the woman managed to grab him to ensure they burned together until people intervened. They were rushed to a nearby hospital where the woman was confirmed dead.”

The PPRO further said the suspect had confessed and would be charged to court.

“The suspect was handed over to the police and has confessed to the crime. He will be charged to court once he has recovered from his wounds.”


Gunmen shot two, abduct village head's wife in Plateau state

It was a horror Sunday as no fewer than two persons including Baba Yarima Jabi, the village head of Angwn Baraya in Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State, shot dead when gunmen attacked the community in the early hours of Sunday .

It was learnt that while the village head was rushed to a nearby hospital in the council area, his son ,Chamsan, who was also shot by the gunmen during the attack died on the spot .

A resident of the village, Ilya Samson, who confirmed the attack to The PUNCH in Jos on Sunday said that after shooting the victims, the gunmen abducted the wife of the village head and fled into the bush.

Samson said “Our community in Pyam chiefdom, Mangu LGA, has once again been hit with another tragedy as heavily armed killer bandits last night attacked the residence of Elder statesman and leader of Angwan Baraya village, Jannaret Ward, Gindiri District, Baba Yarima Jabil.

“The gunmen opened a barrage of gunfire at his residence around midnight and shot the community leader.

“After the attackers finished their operations unchallenged, he was rushed to a hospital in the locality but his son, Chamsan, who was in his late 30’s wasn’t lucky enough to survive the bullets that hit him as he died instantly.

“The bandits also took away two women including the wife of the community leader and there has been no trace of her whereabouts at the moment.

“As I’m talking to you , we are on our way to bury the son who was killed during the attack which has thrown the community into mourning.

“Some security men came to the village after the gunmen had left and I’m sure this kind of thing would not be happening if we have a government that cares and that is why as a community ,we are calling on other Nigerians to consider the current insecurity in many parts of the country and ensure that they elect the right leaders in government during the 2023 elections.”

The spokesman for the Plateau state Police Command, Alabo Alfred, could not be reached when contacted on the attack as his mobile phone was switched off as at the time of filing this report.


Wednesday, June 29, 2022

2023: Fayose throws weight behind Southern Presidency, receives Ekiti governor-elect

Ahead of the 2023 presidential election, former Governor of Ekiti State and leader of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Ayodele Fayose, has insisted that power must return to the South after President Muhammadu Buhari’s tenure next year.

Fayose disclosed this on Wednesday through his verified Twitter handle @GovAyoFayose, accused the leadership of his party of jettisoning the PDP constitution on zoning with the emergence of former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar.

He added  that he would do everything possible to ensure that southern president is emerged in 2023.

According to him, “The PDP Constitution provides for a rotational Presidency. Section 3(c) provides that the Party shall pursue its aims and objectives by “adhering to the policy of the rotation and zoning of Party and Public elective offices in pursuance of the principle of equity, justice and fairness.

“The current President of Nigeria is a two-term Northern Presidency, thus implying that it MUST be a Southern Presidency in 2023 or NOTHING. Awa ‘South’ lo kan’. Nigerians should await details soon,” he stated.

The former governor's remarks came few days after meeting in Port Harcourt with Rivers State governor, Nyesom Wike, who he reportedly backed during the PDP’S presidential primary.

It was gathered from a reliable source that Fayose who had in the past denied any form of alliance with the presidential candidate of the ruling All Progressives Congress, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, might eventually work for the former Lagos governor during next year’s poll.

The source said, “It is obvious there is a crisis in the PDP, especially after the presidential nominations and it appears that these leaders especially from the South are having a new plan outside the PDP. So, what is happening like a rumour over the years is likely to become reality as it relates with Fayose and Tinubu. Let me stop here as events unfold in the coming weeks.”

Meanwhile, barely eleven days after he was declared winner of the June 18 governorship election in Ekiti State, Biodun Oyebanji on Wednesday paid a courtesy visit to the Lagos residence of the former governor of the State.

The media assistant to Oyebanji, Raheem Akingbolu, in a statement said the visit was sequel to the congratulatory messages sent to Oyebanji by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in the June 18 election, Chief Bisi Kolawole, Ekiti State chapter of PDP and Ex-Governor Fayose respectively, hailing the outcome of the election, won by the APC candidate.

Oyebanji said the visit was to extend courtesies to Fayose as a former governor of the state, who, according to him, demonstrated statesmanship by congratulating him shortly after he was declared winner of the June 18 election.

Former Governor Fayose, while receiving the Governor-elect, urged him to be magnanimous in victory and to see himself as the Governor of Ekiti State and leader of the people regardless of their political affiliation.

He promised to support Oyebanji’s administration in whatever area his support would be needed, adding that, “the development of Ekiti State is a collective effort.”


Mixed reactions trail Yoruba actors' endorsement of Tinubu

Knocks, praises have trailed Wednesday open endorsement of former Lagos state governor and presidential aspirant of All Progressives Congress, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Nigerian social media users were divided following the open endorsement of All Progressives Congress presidential candidate, Bola Tinubu, by the Yoruba Nollywood actors.

While some backed the choice of the actors, others claimed that the same set of thespians was among those who allegedly foist the President Muhammadu Buhari and attendant maladministration on Nigeria in 2015 and 2019.

The thespians noted that their support for the APC national leader had become imperative following his support for the movie industry, practitioners, and the ex-governor’s influence across the country.

The actors made their position known in a video clip shared by a veteran actor, Yinka Quadri, where some of his colleagues took turns to endorse Tinubu’s candidacy.

Those featured in the video clip include Yinka Quadri, Jide Kosoko, Fausat Balogun, Taiwo Hassan, Femi Adebayo, Shola Kosoko, Faithia Williams, Saheed Balogun, Murphy Afolabi, and Eniola Ajao among others.

But reacting to the endorsement, Nigerians on Twitter expressed concern over the Yoruba actors’ support for Tinubu at a time when the country allegedly needed a fresh hand with ideas as a leader.

@Theabiolasteven wrote, “The persons’ morality and integrity are to be questioned in the first place. Nollywood Yoruba as always been a hall of shame since time beyond, hungry sets of men and women. If the women are not Mc Oluomo short time knacks then the men are stomach infrastructure wobiyas.”

@Ifeadigoh also wrote, “Tinubu supporters have a tribalistic strategy that focuses on provoking the people from South East. They do this to get a reaction from the South Easterners which they would use to prove that South Easterners don’t like Yoruba. Divide and Conquer!”

@_Samcleave said, “You cannot watch Nollywood Yoruba, see how 95% of their products are senseless, and still think those that own that industry has any cognition to influence your electoral choices.”

@Letter_to_Jack wrote, “The only place canceling can get to Yoruba actors is IG Live and no one who’s dedicated to watching live videos of celebrities fanning vawulence will ever cancel them for any reason. They are out of reach on this one.

@PoojaMedia tweeted, “Okey Bakassi/Psquare endorse Peter Obi = They know the right it, it’s their right. Yoruba actors endorse Tinubu = They are canceled, why only Yoruba, tribal people. Focus on your candidate cos there will still be endorsements from your fav celebrities for their candidates.”

@ManLikeIcey wrote, “Psquare are free to support Peter Obi, it’s their right. Yoruba actors/actresses are free to support Tinubu, it’s their right. You’re equally allowed to support your preferred candidate, it’s your right. Don’t bully people for their constitutional right.

@AsiwajuOladimej said, “P Square campaigned for Obi. Obidients: Yes, this is good. They are Patriots. They are Democrats blah blah blah. Yoruba Actors campaigned for BAT. Obidients: They are bigots. They are tribalistic. They’ve been paid. Hypocrisy 101!”

@Taiwoalabiho2 – “A group of Yoruba actors made a jingle for BAT and you started ranting. Psquare, Phyno, Flavour and a number of South-South & South-Eastern celebrities are rallying support for Peter Obi, so what’s the problem? We cannot move forward with these double standards.”

@Wizarab10 – “Why are you insulting them? You don’t know what BAT has done for them or the Yoruba movie industry. Many of you don’t watch Yoruba movies anyway. Support your own, let them support their own. It is not affecting you.”

@IsoloShoemaker – “P-Square and others can support Peter Obi, but it becomes a sin when Yoruba actors campaign for Tinubu. Look at yourself and say to yourself “I am stupid”.”

@ThisIsAdemuyiwa – “What kinda campaign is this for goodness sake? You have attacked muslims cos Tinubu is a Muslim. You are now attacking Yorubas as if blackmailing and insults are the only available strategies. Sad to see the supposedly educated Nigerians UNLOOKING. It will be LABOUR IN VAIN!”

@lollylarry1 – “Why are u people angry about Yoruba Nollywood actors declaring support 4 Tinubu? You are claiming they got paid, so tell me, how much was Psquare paid 4 endorsing & campaigning 4 Peter Obi? You ppl hav not seen anything, by d time Ohaneze declare support 4 Tinubu, you’ll be shocked.”

@Ifeadigoh – “Tinubu supporters have been attacking Psquare for supporting Peter Obi, it didn’t work, they resort to blackmailing some Yoruba artistes with “Igbo artistes are supporting their own” How do you expect them to support a corrupt, selfish and thief like Tinubu? They get sense ni!”


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