The Federal Government has declared Monday, September 16, 2024, a public holiday to commemorate Eid-ul-Mawlid, the celebration of the birth of the Holy Prophet Muhammad.

This announcement was made by the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, on behalf of the federal government in a statement issued by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Dr. Magdalene Ajani.

In his message, Dr. Tunji-Ojo extended his congratulations to the Muslim Ummah both in Nigeria and abroad, urging them to use this occasion to pray for lasting peace and a prosperous, more equitable nation.

The minister also encouraged all Muslims and Nigerians to embrace the values of patience, sacrifice, and resilience during this period of reflection and celebration.

The Nigeria Police Force has successfully dismantled an illegal refinery, arrested four suspected oil thieves, and recovered 40,000 litres of petroleum products in Rivers State.

This major operation was part of the ongoing crackdown on oil theft, illegal bunkering, and economic sabotage.

In a press release on Friday, the force’s public relations officer, Muyiwa Adejobi, described the operation as a significant milestone in the police’s efforts to combat economic sabotage.

The raid was carried out by operatives of the Inspector General of Police Special Task Force on Petroleum and Illegal Bunkering (IGP-STFPIB) in conjunction with the Rivers State Command’s Department of Operations.

According to Mr. Adejobi, “On 12th September 2024, a joint team uncovered a storage facility in Trans Amadi, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, which was being used for the processing and storage of illegally obtained crude oil.”

The operation resulted in the arrest of four suspects: 58-year-old Emmanuel Nwachi, Adamu Bala (35), Nura Musa (22), and Bashir Abubakar (28). Police recovered 40,000 litres of petroleum products, which had been stored in 67 white storage tanks at the illegal site.

“The team destroyed the site and seized the equipment and machinery used in the illicit activities,” Adejobi confirmed.

In response to the successful operation, Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, reiterated the police force’s determination to tackle crimes such as oil theft and illegal bunkering. “We are fully committed to eradicating all forms of criminality, corruption, and economic sabotage in the country,” the IGP stated.

He further assured that the force remains steadfast in its pursuit of justice and will continue to bring offenders to book.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for the September 21, 2024 Edo State Governorship election, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has been summoned by Chief Magistrate Court of Federal Capital Territory in the Wuse Magisterial District over forgery and perjury charge.

The charge was filed by a PDP chieftain, Chief Honesty Aginbatse, following the report of discrepancies in the birth dates provided in the nomination forms Senator Okpebholo submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for the governorship election.

On July 22, SaharaReporters reported that Senator Okpebholo was s facing fresh allegations of age falsification.

Documents submitted to INEC, which were obtained by SaharaReporters, show discrepancies in the date of birth of the lawmaker.

While the date of birth stated on Okpebholo’s 2023 Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Senate nomination form is March 29, 1970, the birth date provided in his 2024 INEC governorship nomination affidavit differs.

In the 2024 governorship form, Okpebholo listed three different dates of birth: August 29, 1970 in an age declaration document, August 29, 1972 on his West African Examination Council (WAEC) result, and August 1, 1977 on his INEC voter card.

https://saharareporters.com/2024/07/22/edo-election-embattled-apc-gov-candidate-fresh-age-falsification-scandal-official-forms?fbclid=IwY2xjawFQ_ddleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHaSZyDiqjwrfDo-otDEhVjMvojUQ_BaD_vk_84uoui3bHhjzK2LC2KEIWQ_aem_FaAxFe__US-QKYlP8ab9qQ

SaharaReporters exclusively reported on July 10, 2024 that Senator Okpebholo appeared not to have registered to vote in Edo State.

Checks carried on the INEC website revealed the shocking development, despite the politician submitting a voter card purportedly obtained from Esan West Local Government Area.

Meanwhile the court summons obtained by SaharaReporters is dated September 12, 2024 and signed by Abubakar Mukhtar, Magistrate 1 FCT.

The summons ordered Okpebholo to appear before the magistrate on September 20, barely 24 hours before the Edo governorship election.

The case filed at Court 17A Wuse Zone 2, with case No. CR/WZ2/816/2024 is between Mr Honesty Aginbatse as the Complainant under Criminal procedure code (CAP.30 255) and Senator Monday Okpehbolo as the Defendant.

It partly reads: “Summon to an accused person: To Sen. Monday Okpehbolo of No 36 Gaborone Street Wuse Zone 2 Abuja.

“Whereas your attendance is required to answer to a charge of making a false statement on oath you are hereby summoned to appear in person before Magistrate Court at Wuse Zone 2 on the 20th day of September 2024 at 12 Noon.”

SaharaReporters had reported that the multiplicity of dates of birth provided in his INEC forms had raised questions about the legitimacy of Okpebholo’s candidacy.

Under Section 182.1 (d) of the Nigerian Constitution, a conviction for offences involving dishonesty or fraud disqualifies a person from running for governor, raising questions about Okpebholo’s eligibility if convicted.

President Bola Tinubu’s administration has unveiled the National Youth Skills Programme to address youth unemployment and equip them with essential skills for the future.

Jamila Ibrahim, Minister of Youth Development, said this at the unveiling event on Thursday in Abuja.

Ms Ibrahim said that the programme was developed to tackle unemployment and equip young people with employable skills.

The minister said, “The key goals are to reduce youth unemployment by 20 per cent in the next five years and achieve up to a 50 per cent increase in youth-led enterprise.

“Through regular assessment, feedback loops and data analysis, we will adjust our strategies as needed to ensure that we stay on track and that no one is left behind.

“With the right skills and training, our youth cannot only find employment but also become the driving force behind these sectors, creating a ripple effect of job opportunities.’’

According to her, the government is committed to empowering youths with financial tools to succeed beyond technical skills.

The minister added, “That is why we are committed to ensuring that 50 per cent of programme participants will be female and we have designed specific pathways for young women to thrive in sectors like technology, healthcare and entrepreneurship.’’

Ms Ibrahim explained that the framework would also allow them to track key performance indicators such as the number of jobs created, youth-led businesses’ success rate, and the overall contribution to national economic growth.

According to her, NYSP is designed to target 11 key sectors crucial to Nigeria’s development– agriculture, renewable energy, digital economy and manufacturing.

She listed others as healthcare services, creative arts, sustainable mobility, circular economy, teaching skills, mining and gemstone processing, and blue economy.

(NAN)

Governor Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa State has donated ₦50 million and six speedboats to the Borno State Government to support victims of the recent flooding in the state.

According to a statement by Humwashi Wonosikou, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, during a visit to Maiduguri on Thursday, Governor Fintiri presented the donation to Governor Babagana Zulum and appealed for more support for the affected communities.

He expressed regret over the loss of lives and property and urged the federal government to take necessary action to address the situation.

Governor Fintiri, alongside Governors Babagana Zulum and Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, took a boat ride to assess the situation and sympathize with displaced persons in the state.

The visit was aimed at showing solidarity with the people of Borno State and assessing the extent of the damage caused by the flooding.

The Maiduguri flooding, which was caused by a broken spillway from the Alau Dam, has resulted in significant loss of lives and property.

Governor Fintiri’s donation is a gesture of support to the affected communities and a call to action for more assistance.

The Adamawa State Government’s donation includes ₦50 million to support relief efforts and Six speedboats to aid in rescue and relief operations

Governor Fintiri was accompanied by Secretary to the State Government Awwal Tukur, members of the State Executive Council, and friends during the visit.

The Ijesa North Traditional Council has announced a seven-day curfew in Ilesa, starting tonight, to mourn the passing of Oba (Dr.) Gabriel Adekunle Aromolaran II, the Owa Obokun Adimula of Ijesaland and Paramount Ruler of Ijesaland.

The curfew will be in effect from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. nightly to maintain peace and order during this period.

The council expressed deep sorrow over the demise of Oba Aromolaran II, who was renowned for his dedication to the progress and development of Ijesaland.

The curfew is a necessary measure to ensure public safety and honor the late monarch’s legacy of peace.

Security agencies, including the Nigerian Police Force and local vigilante groups, will enforce the curfew strictly.

Essential services like healthcare and emergency responders will remain accessible, but movement will be limited during curfew hours.

Oba Aromolaran II, who ascended the throne in 1982, was a respected figure in Nigerian traditional leadership, known for his wisdom, cultural advocacy, and contributions to national unity.

His passing marks the end of an era for the people of Ijesaland, who mourn the loss of a father, leader, and custodian of tradition.

The Kogi State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has suspended former Senator Dino Melaye from the party.

The suspension was enacted by the PDP executive committee in Ayetoro Gbede, Ward 1, after Melaye failed to respond to a summons.

The Ward executive cited anti-party activities and alleged misconduct as reasons for the action.

During a meeting on Friday in Aiyetoro/Luagba Ward 1, the Ward party executive committee reviewed a report from the disciplinary committee investigating the allegations against Melaye and decided to suspend him.

The resolution was signed by Ward Chairman Abayomi Osamika and Secretary Yodson Dayo.

The resolution, as seen Coretvnews, stated: “Senator Dino Melaye’s actions have brought embarrassment and disrepute to the party, making his continued membership untenable. Therefore, the Ward party executive has suspended Dino Melaye from the Peoples Democratic Party, effective immediately.”

The suspension follows Article 59(1) of the PDP constitution, which grants Ward executives the authority to take disciplinary measures against members found in violation of party rules.

President Bola Tinubu met with King Charles III at Buckingham Palace on Wednesday, marking their first encounter since the COP 28 Climate Summit in Dubai last year.

The private meeting, initiated by the King, underscored the strong ties between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, according to a statement issued by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.

During their discussions, the leaders focused on critical global issues, particularly the pressing challenge of climate change.

They explored collaborative opportunities in preparation for the upcoming COP 29 Summit in Azerbaijan and the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Samoa.

President Tinubu reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to addressing climate change while balancing the nation’s energy security needs. He expressed Nigeria’s readiness to align with global sustainability strategies.

The dialogue also included innovative approaches to climate financing, with both leaders keen on leveraging Nigeria’s influential role in Africa and the Commonwealth to strengthen partnerships in climate action.

President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep sadness over the transition of Oba Gabriel Adekunle Aromolaran II, the Owa Obokun of Ijesaland.

Oba Aromolaran, the highly revered first-class monarch, died at the age of 86.

While on the throne, he also served as chairman of the Osun State Council of Traditional Rulers.

As a traditional ruler, Oba Aromolaran kept his palace above the fray of partisan politics. He was open to all political tendencies.

According to a statement by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, on behalf of the Federal Government, President Tinubu extended heartfelt condolences to the government and people of Osun State, the good people of Ijesaland, and the family of the late traditional ruler.

The President affirmed that the departed monarch firmly believed in the values of Yoruba culture and African tradition.

His respect for these values and systems defined his remarkable 42-year reign on the throne of his ancestors.

Tinubu paid tribute to the departed monarch, expressing his deep admiration for Oba Aromolaran’s unwavering support, optimism, and commitment to Nigeria’s justice, unity, and prosperity.

“His dedication to these noble causes inspired us all,” Tinubu said.

He further noted that the late Oba Aromolaran will be long remembered for his useful educational contributions through his many books and publications, his advocacy for what is right and fair, and his protection of the vulnerable from exploitation.

Tinubu prayed that “God Almighty will grant Kabiyesi’s soul eternal rest and comfort to all who mourn the passage of this great leader.”

The Nigeria Police Force has confirmed the gruesome murder of Mrs. Rose Eneojoh, a housewife in Kogi State.

According to William Ovye Aya, Kogi State Police Public Relations Officer, “One suspect, Muazu Muhammed, has been arrested in connection with the crime.”

The incident occurred at Etikpolo Anyigba, in Dekina Local Government Area, where unknown individuals attacked and killed Mrs. Eneojoh. Aya revealed that the case has been transferred to Lokoja for further investigation.

Charles Ile Umoru, a family member, expressed outrage and grief over the senseless killing, saying, “This innocent woman was gruesomely murdered, leaving her husband and five young children in misery.

The killers demanded 200,000 Naira to spare her life, but despite receiving the money, they still shot and killed her. How long should this continue in Igala land?”

The police assure that justice will be served, as they work tirelessly to unravel the circumstances surrounding this tragic incident.

Oyo State governor John, ‘Seyi Makinde, has said that his administration will continue to encourage quality nursing education in the state.

The governor stated this on Thursday while receiving the Accreditation Team from the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria at an event held at the Conference Room, Ministry of Justice, Secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan.

Governor Makinde, who spoke through his Deputy, Barr. Bayo Lawal, maintained that education is one of the main pillars of the Omituntun 2.0’s Sustainable Development Agenda and that the administration has continued to do everything possible to ensure the improvement of the sector.

He added that Nursing as a profession has gained global attraction and has become prominent and that nursing education should not be undermined because it is the incubation ground for making well-grounded nurses that will function in the health sector.

The governor promised that his government will provide more infrastructure, resources and manpower to enhance the quality of nursing education in all the health-related schools.

The governor equally stated that the state is working on putting in place a law that will enable the establishment of the College of Nursing Sciences with multiple campuses in the state.

Earlier in his address, the Chief Registrar and Chief Executive Officer, Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria, Dr Farouk Abubarka, said that the accreditation team was in Oyo State to inspect and see the availability of resources in the Nursing Schools in Ibadan, Kisi and Oyo campuses.

He explained that nurses produced in Nigeria are competent and among the best in the world, adding that the aim of the Council is to ensure standard at all levels with regards to the production of competent and qualified nurses across all the health facilities in Nigeria.

Dr Abubarka commended the efforts of the Governor Makinde-led administration in the health and education sectors, even as he called for more efforts to enhance quality services.

The event had in attendance the Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Professor Salihu Adelabu; Attorney General/Commissioner for Justice, Barr. Biodun Aikomo, and Commissioner for Health, Dr Oluwaserimi Ajetumobi.

Others were the Provost, College of Nursing Sciences, Dr Gbonjubola Owolabi and the Provost, College of Health Science and Technology, Dr Oluyemisi Oyewo, among others.

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Abuja zone, has raised concerns over what it described as an ugly trend of treating its members as slaves in some public universities in the country.

Briefing newsmen Thursday in Abuja, Salihu Muhammed Lawal, Abuja Zonal Coordinator of ASUU, said their members have suffered various forms of victimisation such as suspension from duty, denial of promotion, deliberate withholding of salaries, dismissal from service without recourse to due process, and stifling of union’s activities.

Lawal said if not checked, it could lead to industrial disharmony among members.

“We are worried by this ugly trend. It is obvious that there is a trend in our public universities that may lead to unwarranted and avoidable industrial disharmony, because our Union would not sit idly and allow visitors to the universities and some overzealous university administrators erode the culture of academic excellence and rule of law as guaranteed in the university Acts and ultimately, the Constitution of the Federal Republic,” he said.

Arteta agrees new Arsenal deal – reports
We’ll deploy technology to improve cancer treatment — Finance minister
According to him, the case of victimisation of ASUU members began at the Kogi State University.

He said: “At the Kogi State University, Anyigba, a crisis began due to the lack of understanding of the modus operandi of the University system by the operators and the Visitors to the University. The autonomy of the system had always been infringed upon, leading to a frosty relationship between the union and the university management.”

He further said this reached a crescendo when the university administration started trampling on the rights and privileges of academic staff.

“All efforts by the union to address these anomalies were met with stiff opposition from the university authority and the visitors to the university. This situation led to a strike action that culminated in the dismissal of 120,” he said.

Among other other universities, he said such cases have been reported include the Lagos State University (LASU); Ebonyi State University (EBSU); Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma (AAUE), Edo State; Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), Anambra State; and most recently the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO).

He said: “At the Lagos State University (LASU), there was a reckless clampdown on the union’s activities and outright victimization of the union’s leadership as well.

“At the Ebonyi State University (EBSU), there was gross interference by the political class in the administration of the institution which has resulted into the inhuman treatment of our members.

“In place of the university’s Governing Council, a group of questionable characters known as ‘The Divine Mandate Professors’ took over and usurped the powers of the Council.

“At the Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), the interest of the University Administration has led to the persecution of union members as well as crippling of its activities on campus.”

ASUU, therefore, called on all visitors to the affected state and federal universities to quickly address all issues that can further make campuses a battlefield.

Gas Explosion Kills Couple in Ebonyi State
Gas explosion has killed a woman identified simply as Chioma and her husband, George, in Abakiliki, the Ebonyi state capital.

The spokesperson of Ebonyi State Police Command, DSP Joshua Ukandu, disclosed this to journalists on Thursday in Abakiliki.

This came following speculations in some quarters that the duo died as a result of dynamite or inverter battery explosion.

Chioma was said to have died five days after the explosion while the husband succumbed to injuries sustained from the blast on Wednesday in the hospital.

It was learnt that the explosion happened a few days after the couple moved into their new residence in Abakiliki.

Ukandu said, “The preliminary report shows that it was a gas explosion that killed Chioma and not dynamite or battery, although further investigation is still on going.”

The true identify of the late Chioma is not yet established but unconfirmed reports said she was a sister of Afrobeats singer, Patoranking

On Wednesday, September 11, 2024, at approximately 8:30 pm, gunmen kidnapped Mr. Emeka Nwachukwu, the owner of a hospital in Kosubosu, Baruten Local Government Area of Kwara State.

The abduction occurred at his clinic, located on the outskirts of Kosubosu town.

The Kwara State Police Command confirmed the incident in a statement released on Thursday by its spokesperson, Toun Ejire-Adeyemi.

According to the statement, the police are working alongside the local vigilante to rescue Mr. Nwachukwu unharmed and have intensified efforts to locate him.

The statement read: “The Kwara State Police Command is aware of an unfortunate kidnap incident that occurred on September 11, 2024, at 2030 hours. Mr. Emeka C. Nwachukwu was kidnapped in a clinic owned by him on the outskirts of Kosubosu town and taken to an unknown location. Further developments on the rescue operation will be communicated as it progresses.”

The police are actively working to secure Mr. Nwachukwu’s safe release and are urging anyone with information to come forward.

…As Odua Investment Company commits to FG’s economic revolution

The Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, has restated the firm resolve of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to revolutionise Nigeria’s Digital Economy, saying it is on course and fully backed by the necessary support, initiatives and partnerships.

To this effect, he said the Federal Government will continue to open its doors to all willing partners and stakeholders who continue to believe and invest in the Nigeria project, adding that it is just a matter of time before the nation takes its rightful position across the globe.

The Vice President, who gave the assurance on Thursday when the management of Odua Investment Company Limited led by its Chairman, Otunba Bimbo Ashiru, paid him a courtesy visit at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, praised the Company for its initiatives and investment in agriculture, digital economy and MSMEs.

Senator Shettima noted that these sectors remain critical to Nigeria’s economic development and future.

“The Southwest region of our country has the enormous capacity to revolutionise the country given its endowments, just as the policies of President Tinubu will, in no time, manifest as the greatest milestones crossed for the development of Nigeria,” the VP stated.

On the ”weaponization of fuel subsidy,” Vice President Shettima described it as an albatross that hung on the neck of the Nigerian nation, as well as the hitherto manipulated exchange rate.

“Few persons sat on our commonwealth and manipulated our resources. But we are checkmating these manipulations and as can be seen the economy is gradually beginning to recover and pick up. We are, indeed, ready to carry the burden of leadership and together with stakeholders like you, we are crossing the rubicon and the time for reaping will come,” VP Shettima further said.

Earlier, the Chairman of Odu’a Investment Company Limited, Otunba Ashiru, who thanked the Vice President for the opportunity to pay him a courtesy call, commended President Tinubu for promoting ease of doing business in Nigeria.

Similarly, he praised the encouragement they got from Vice President Shettima, just as he said, “You could see that businesses are coming in, and that is why we are here. I see a brighter future in this country with what we have seen in general.

“Nigerians have no business going around the world looking for money, especially with the volume of resources at its disposal, more so that our investors are our greatest assets,” he said.

Mr Ashiru expressed optimism that businesses will continue to thrive under the Tinubu administration, even as he called on citizens and investors to take advantage of the opportunities that abound in Nigeria and do business.

“Earlier, it was one of the issues that the Vice President was applauded for. I served as a former Commissioner in my state, and I know that actually, the Office of the Vice President focuses on that aspect of doing business in Nigeria.

“Now, I’m sure Nigeria has moved up the ladder. I remember Nigeria was sometimes ranked around 140 or so. I can tell you that there are lots of opportunities in this country,” he added.

The Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN) has sealed 666 medicine stores in Kaduna State for allegedly operating illegally and violating national drug distribution guidelines.

This follows an enforcement exercise that began earlier in the week, where a total of 895 premises were visited.

According to the PCN director of enforcement, Stephen Esumobi, “The premises sealed include 47 pharmacies, 313 patent medicine shops, and 306 illegal medicine shops.

These shops were shut down for selling medicines in open drug markets, operating without registration, poor documentation, poor storage facilities, and stocking ethical products without a pharmacist’s supervision.”

Esumobi emphasized that the activities of these shops pose a significant threat to public health due to poor storage conditions, which can lead to the degradation of active ingredients in medicines.

“The PCN will not tolerate the sale of medicines in open drug markets and unregistered locations. We will continue to enforce the National Drug Distribution Guidelines to protect public health and prevent the sale of harmful substances,” he assured.

However, Esumobi also offered assistance to owners of sealed shops who are willing to comply with regulations, warning that action will be taken against erring medicine dealers.

The PCN’s enforcement exercise aims to ensure that medicine stores operate within the bounds of the law and prioritize public health and safety.