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Showing posts from 2024

LJMU Summer University program, fully funded

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Applications to the LJMU Summer University 2024 Are you interested in having a unique experience as a university student? Look no further than the LJMU Summer University 2024 in Liverpool, England. This fully funded summer school presents a great opportunity for university students to engage fully in both the academic and social aspects of university life. During the three-day LJMU Summer University Residential program, you will have the opportunity to focus on a subject area of your choice and collaborate with students from various schools and colleges. This summer school provides an excellent opportunity to expand your horizons and connect with people from around the world. The summer school program features a variety of lectures, practical activities, and enjoyable evening social events. It's a fantastic way to experience university life firsthand and explore a new city. Liverpool John Moores University is just one of many international summer school programs available globally.

SME Growth Lab Africa Digital Accelerator Program

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  The 2024 SME Growth Lab Accelerator Program.  The SME Growth Lab Africa Digital  Accelerator Program is a thorough initiative aimed at assisting SMEs throughout Africa by offering them resources, training, and mentorship to foster the development of sustainable businesses. Requirements the SME Growth Lab Accelerator Program: - Must be a business owner located in Africa. - Must be aged between 18 and 40. - Must be dedicated to attending the virtual sessions and group calls. - Must be enthusiastic about volunteering and engaging in community sessions. Benefits of the SME Growth Lab Accelerator Program. The business acumen training program offers comprehensive instruction in sales, marketing, finance, and legal matters, equipping participants with a holistic understanding of key business principles. Under the guidance of seasoned business experts, mentees will receive personalized mentorship, gaining valuable insights and practical knowledge from industry veterans. Access to an array of

Oyo State plans to pursue legal action against three individuals detained in connection with the Ibadan explosion.

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  Kk State Governor, Seyi Makinde, received an official report on the explosion that occurred in the Old Bodija area of Ibadan on January 16. The explosion resulted in the loss of five lives, injuries to 77 individuals, and the destruction of 58 houses. The report, disclosed by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security, Fatai Owoseni, a retired Commissioner of Police, stated that three individuals have been linked to the explosion and will face prosecution. The report encompasses findings from medical, security, and engineering teams established by the government.  Owoseni addressed the media following the report's presentation, stating that three individuals connected to the incident have been identified and will be prosecuted based on the investigation conducted. Owoseni mentioned that footage from a Closed Circuit Television in one of the affected houses captured the incident, revealing that the explosive, a 'Water Gel Type Based Explosive,' was triggered by an ele

Nigerian Air Force airstrikes result in the demise of terrorists and the destruction of their hideouts in Katsina.

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  On Sunday, the Nigerian Air Force reported that a joint operation involving the air component of Operation Hadarin Daji and the Nigerian Army resulted in the elimination of numerous terrorists and the destruction of their hideouts on Tora Hills in Safana Local Government Area of Katsina State.  According to Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, the airstrikes conducted by NAF jets paved the way for successful clearance operations by ground troops.  This operation effectively degraded the terrorists' capabilities and facilitated the clearance of Tsora Hill, previously a hiding place for terrorists in Safana LGA.  This success follows previous airstrikes by the NAF, including the elimination of Yellow Janbros, a terrorist kingpin, in Niger State on December 11, 2023, and the killing of several terrorists in another operation on January 7, 2024. Destroyed their weapon storage facilities in Borno.

The cost of the 2024 Hajj pilgrimage for Nigerians has been decreased by Saudi Arabia.

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  The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, NAHCON, has successfully negotiated a reduction in the charges for the 2024 Hajj with the Saudi Arabian Government.  Fatima Sanda Usara, the Commission’s Deputy Director of Public Affairs, stated that the reductions apply to airfare, accommodation, and Masha’ir packages. Usara explained that NAHCON Chairman, Malam Jalal Ahmad Arabi, led the team in making preparations for the 2024 Hajj, focusing on reducing costs for services provided to Nigerian pilgrims.  The plea for price adjustment was based on global economic challenges affecting intending pilgrims due to the aftermath of the Covid-19 lockdown and the war in Europe. She provided examples of the reductions, such as the accommodation cost in Madinah dropping from SR 2,080 in 2023 to SR 1,665 this year. Similarly, the cost of accommodation in Makkah decreased from SR 3,500 to SR 3,000.  The Masha’ir package for 2024 will be SR 4,770 (VAT inclusive), compared to SR 5,393 paid by last year

Adelabu highlights that power firms are facing challenges due to unpaid debts and a shortage of gas.

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 The Minister of Power, Bayo Adelabu, cited unpaid debts and low gas supply as reasons for the power plants' inability to operate at full capacity.  During his visit to the Olorunshogo Power Plant in Ogun State and the Omotosho Power Plant in Ondo State, managed by the Niger Delta Power Holding Company, Adelabu expressed concern about the under-utilization of these installations, operating below 25% capacity.  He emphasized the need to address gas supply shortages, repair turbines, and tackle outstanding debts, proposing a shift to cost-reflective tariffs to ensure sustainable funding for the sector.  Adelabu highlighted the importance of resolving these issues for improved nationwide power supply. Is the accumulation of these debts a concern? Some of the debts are owed by the Distribution Companies (DisCos), and a significant portion is also owed by the Federal Government, linked to the unfunded subsidy.  Adelabu assured that substantial efforts are underway to ensure the availabi

Arsenal has initiated contact regarding a potential deal with Osimhen.

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 Arsenal, a prominent team in the Premier League, has reached out regarding a potential transfer for highly sought-after Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen. They aim to secure his move from the Italian side Napoli. The 25-year-old has established himself as a prolific striker in Europe during his three-and-a-half years with Napoli, scoring 67 goals in 119 appearances across all competitions. Osimhen, who won the Golden Boot last season with 26 goals in 32 Serie A matches, played a crucial role in Napoli clinching their first Scudetto title in three decades.  Despite signing a contract extension until June 2026 in December, the player is expected to leave Napoli in the summer, with interest from top European clubs such as Real Madrid and PSG. In the Premier League, Arsenal and Chelsea are believed to be the main contenders for his signature.

The military conducts airstrikes, eliminating 30 terrorists in Kaduna, and simultaneously rescues 35 abducted individuals in Katsina.

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 The air component of Operation Whirl Punch successfully neutralized 30 terrorists on motorcycles in the Birnin Gwari Local Government Area of Kaduna State. This operation was prompted by intelligence reports indicating the movement of these terrorists in the region.  Additionally, security operatives in Katsina State rescued 35 kidnap victims from the Dumburu forest on Sunday. According to Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, Director of Public Relations and Information, the eliminated terrorists were responsible for recent ambushes on troops and various attacks and abductions of civilians in the Birnin Gwari area.  The precision strike took place after the discovery of the syndicate's movement along the Kwiga-Kampamin Doka axis. Upon reaching the location, the troops identified two armed terrorists on 15 motorcycles, leading to a successful elimination through a precision strike. The terrorists were tracked to a location where they gathered, and they were engaged and neutralized thro

The Federal Government and Kebbi State are partnering to enhance agriculture via irrigation farming.

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 Governor Nasiru Idris of Kebbi State has announced a partnership between the Federal Government of Nigeria and the state government to provide free petroleum to farmers for irrigation.  The announcement was made during the flag-off of the All Progressives Congress (APC) camping for the by-election in Yauri/Shanga/Naski federal constituency, held in Shanga Local Government Area on Saturday. Governor Idris declared, “The Kebbi State Government, in collaboration with the Federal Government, has arranged to supply petrol to farmers for dry season farming at no cost.”  He mentioned discussions with former governor and current Minister of Economic Planning, Sen. Abubakar Atiku-Bagudu, leading to an agreement to provide petroleum to farmers. This initiative aims to support farming activities and enhance food security in the state. Governor Idris also revealed plans to distribute 12,000 solar-powered water pumps to farmers, with 6,000 already distributed, to improve crop yields.  Additionally

Otedola expresses enthusiasm about making a comeback on Forbes' list of Africa's billionaires.

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 Billionaire businessman Femi Otedola recently expressed his excitement on social media about rejoining the Forbes African Billionaires list after a seven-year break.  He shared the announcement on his Instagram page, writing "Interesting" and adding smiley and dollar emojis. The 61-year-old entrepreneur currently holds the 20th position on the list with a net worth of $1.1 billion. Forbes reports that the total wealth of the 2024 list of 20 billionaires increased to $82.4 billion from last year's $81.5 billion, partly attributed to Otedola's return. Prior to this, the last time he appeared on the Forbes Africa list was in 2017, securing the 20th spot this year.  Otedola serves as the executive chairman of Geregu Power Plc and is a former CEO of Forte Oil, with business interests spanning energy, power generation, real estate, and shipping. Despite facing tough competition from multinational oil firms, Otedola's company has maintained a significant position in Nig

The Presidency announces that the newly established 100-bed hospital in Kebbi is expected to decrease maternal and child mortality.

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  The recently inaugurated 100-bed Mother and Child Hospital in Tsamiya village, Kebbi State, is expected to significantly reduce maternal and child mortality, as stated by the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals (OSSAP-SDGs).  The state-of-the-art hospital, constructed and equipped by OSSAP-SDGs, was handed over to the Kebbi State government last week. Governor Nasir Idris, who commissioned the hospital, praised Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, the SSAP-SDGs, for delivering this commendable project in Kebbi State.  Governor Idris acknowledged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's steadfast commitment to enhancing the health sector, highlighting that the hospital would contribute to reducing child and maternal mortality and improving maternal health in Kebbi State and neighboring Benin Republic. Expressing gratitude to Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, Governor Idris emphasized the hospital's significance in addressing the healt

Plateau: The Defence Headquarters plans to summon the Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), who accused the military of assisting in the killings.

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 The Defense Headquarters has stated that it will request a meeting with Rev. Timothy Daluk, Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria in Mangu Local Government Area, Plateau State.  This comes in response to Daluk's recent accusation against the Nigerian military, claiming their involvement in the killings of Christians and destruction of property in the state.  The Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj. Gen. Edward Buba, mentioned that the DHQ is in the process of contacting Daluk to provide evidence for his allegations.  Buba emphasized the importance of clarifying the situation and assured that the military would continue its duties professionally and in accordance with international standards.

Suspected child trafficking: Officer recounts the retrieval of stolen children from a couple.

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 Police Officer ASP Desmond Apella informed the Federal Capital Territory High Court that stolen children were recovered from a couple facing charges of child trafficking.  Apella, the third prosecution witness, testified before Justice Peter Kekemeke in the case against Ifeoma Abonyi, 32, and Emmanuel Onyekwere, 32, who are accused of conspiracy and child trafficking.  The charges, according to the police, violate sections 30(3), 97, and 273 of the Penal Code. Apella, part of the investigating team, stated that the case originated from a petition filed in November 2019 by Thomas Olobo, reporting the disappearance of his 17-month-old child.  The complainant alleged that the defendants, his neighbors, took the child to the market and never returned. The police traced the couple to Ibusa, Delta State, where they were arrested, revealing a child trafficking syndicate, with the sold baby traced to someone in Aba. "We successfully rescued the baby and reunited her with her parents. Add

Heightened tension as dismissed PDP lawmakers from Plateau State pledge to resume today.

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 As the Plateau State House of Assembly reconvenes today, the 16 lawmakers elected under the Peoples Democratic Party affirmed their commitment to legislative duties, despite being ousted by the Court of Appeal.  The All Progressives Congress countered, asserting the lawmakers' dismissal and deeming their planned return a potential threat to democracy. The Court of Appeal's November ruling cited the PDP's alleged lack of a valid structure for nominating candidates.  However, the lawmakers, led by Yobo Ishaku, argued that the Supreme Court's subsequent validation of the PDP's structure nullified the Court of Appeal's verdict, making their dismissal irrelevant. Ishaku emphasized their readiness to resume work, asserting the support of their constituents. The PDP lawmakers affirmed their commitment to resume legislative duties, stating that their constituents strongly support them.  They urged President Bola Tinubu and the heads of the Nigerian judiciary to take ac

A security expert seeks damages of N200 million from the police.

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 The Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, CP Aderemi Adeoye, has been taken to court and is being asked to pay N200 million in damages.  The plaintiff, Ozo Jeff Nweke, who operates a private security outfit called Blue Shield Company Limited in Awka, filed a suit (No. A/390/2023) in an Anambra State High Court sitting in Awka judicial division.  In this legal action, he named the Police Service Commission (PSC) as the 2nd defendant and accused CP Adeoye of labeling him and his security company as criminals and land grabbers. In the statement of claims submitted to the court, Ozo Nweke traced his troubles with CP Adeoye back to a dispute between the people of his Ezinano community in Awka, Awka-South local government area, and their neighbors in Enugwu-Agidi community over an estate known as Four Ways Court Estate (originally Agunogu land). Nweke asserted that his private security outfit was hired by the people of Ezinano to provide security in the disputed land, which is currently

"I won't endorse emigrating from Nigeria," states Amaechi on the topic of 'Japa.'

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 Former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, clarified his stance on discouraging Nigerians from emigrating, commonly known as 'Japa.'  He asserted that seeking a 9-to-5 job abroad might limit opportunities compared to staying in Nigeria, where one could potentially attain political office.  Amaechi advised young Nigerians to pursue avenues for decision-making, particularly in the country's economy, emphasizing the unpredictability of rising to positions like minister or governor.  He expressed his commitment to honesty, attributing it to his fear of God, and asserted his unwillingness to be politically correct if it meant compromising truth.  When pressed about his political career, Amaechi chose not to respond. He served as Nigeria's Minister of Transportation from 2015 to 2022. During the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari, he resigned and participated in the presidential primary within the ruling All-Progressive Congress. However, he was defe

A man has been arrested by the Kano police in connection with the death of his colleague.

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 A 32-year-old man named James Isma’il has been apprehended by the Kano State Police Command for reportedly killing his coworker in a confrontation at Fas Agro Sacks Company in Sharada Ja’in Quarters, Kano State.  The incident, resulting in the death of 32-year-old Tukur Adamu, occurred following a distress call received on January 21 at around 8:30 am.  The Kano State Commissioner of Police, Usaini Gumel, has assured a thorough investigation and prosecution of the accused.  In a statement issued by the state public relations officer, Abdullahi Kiyawa, it was mentioned that the situation was promptly controlled, and the suspect was taken into custody for further investigation.  Additionally, the statement urges the public to refrain from taking the law into their own hands. In a similar incident last year, the Kano State Police Command arrested a 24-year-old housewife, Hafsat Surajo, for allegedly fatally stabbing her domestic staff, Nafi’u Hafiz.

An airport official has been apprehended for trying to transport a suspected drug aboard an Ibom Air flight.

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 An official from Partfinder International Limited, an aviation security company, was arrested at Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos, for attempting to send a suspected illicit drug on a departing Ibom Air flight to Accra, Ghana.  According to the statement by the Director of Public Affairs & Consumer Protection, Obiageli Orah, the employee asked a passenger to carry a parcel on the flight.  The passenger became suspicious, raising concerns about potential involvement in drug trafficking. The FAAN spokesperson later revealed that the passenger was also arrested for further questioning, while the employee was taken into custody by the Crime Investigation and Intelligence Unit of the Aviation Security Services.  The passenger eventually boarded the Ibom Air flight to Accra, and the substance, labeled as 'NEW AGE GLUCOSAMINE CHONDROITIN SULFATE COMPLEX,' was handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further investigation. FAAN emphas

The piracy of 'Malaika' caused me to experience a panic attack, revealed Toyin Abraham.

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 Nollywood actress Toyin Abraham revealed on Tuesday that the piracy of her film caused her panic attacks, leading to hospitalization on multiple occasions.  She spoke to reporters in Lagos as the police announced the arrest of five suspects linked to the pirated movie 'Malaika,' which incurred a production cost of N500 million.  Abraham, actively combating piracy, commended the police, particularly AIG IG Idowu Owohunwa, for taking action.  The Federal Criminal Investigation Department in Alagbon,Ikoyi,Lagos,reported the arrest of five suspects, including two women, for alleged involvement in conspiracy, intellectual property infringement, piracy, and cyber-related crimes related to the unauthorized online distribution of 'Malaika.'  The co-producers, Abraham and Seun Olayemi, filed a criminal complaint, asserting that their movie, initially released for cinema viewing on December 21, 2023, was illicitly accessed, uploaded on a website, and shared on social media, deny

A two-year-old toddler succumbs to starvation in the United Kingdom.

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 A two-year-old toddler named Bronson Battersby reportedly died of starvation next to his deceased father, Kenneth, in the United Kingdom.  According to the Daily Mail, the family revealed that Battersby was discovered wearing pajamas beside his father, aged 60, who is believed to have suffered a heart attack shortly after he was last seen alive on Boxing Day. A social worker, conducting a routine visit, found no response when visiting their home in Skegness, Lincolnshire, on January 2. After a second unsuccessful attempt on January 4, the social worker contacted the police.  Shockingly, the bodies of Kenneth and Bronson, who was considered vulnerable and received weekly checks, were not discovered until January 9 when the social worker, using a key from the landlord, gained access to the home. Bronson's mother, Sarah Piesse, 43, stated that she last saw her son before Christmas following a disagreement with her ex. She expressed frustration, blaming social services for not fulfill

The defamation trial related to Trump's alleged sexual assault case is set to resume.

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  Donald Trump is expected to appear in a New York court on Tuesday for a civil case where he has been previously found responsible for sexually abusing and defaming the writer E. Jean Carroll.  A jury last May concluded that Trump assaulted her in a New York department store in 1996, awarding her $2 million for the assault and $3 million for defamation over Trump's 2022 remark.  The upcoming trial will determine the amount Trump should pay for separate remarks made in 2019, with Carroll seeking $10 million in damages.  Trump, the Republican frontrunner, plans to attend the proceedings in person, following his victory in the Iowa caucuses and ahead of the New Hampshire primary.  Despite requesting a postponement for his mother-in-law's funeral, the judge denied it, noting Trump's plans to meet with supporters in New Hampshire. Last week, Trump maintained his denial of knowing Carroll, labeling her a liar and "not my type." Trump is currently involved in at least s

Wike, amidst the dispute with Fubara, asserts that God raised him and emphasizes that those scheming to bring him down will ultimately fail.

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  Amidst his disagreement with Governor Sim Fubara of Rivers State, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, asserted that no one can bring him down because he believes God elevated him. Wike stated that those conspiring against him will not succeed, emphasizing that previous attempts by detractors have failed.  During a visit to his supporter, Felix Obuah, in Omoku, Wike expressed confidence that God's favor protects him, and any efforts to undermine him will be in vain.

Catholic Bishops express dismay over the prevalent corruption at a high level in Nigeria.

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  On Sunday, Catholic Bishops expressed concern about the widespread corruption in Nigeria, urging the government to improve the economy and address poverty.  The Bishops also highlighted the alarming incidents of violence and kidnapping in Imo State and other parts of the country.  Most Rev. Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji, President of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria, conveyed these concerns during a sermon at a thanksgiving Mass in honor of the 2024 Armed Forces Remembrance Day and Governor Hope Uzodimma’s re-election at Maria Assumpta Cathedral, Owerri.  Ugorji emphasized the multifaceted nature of corruption, encompassing bribery, embezzlement, abuse of office, and various other unethical practices that adversely affect the nation.

Police in Rivers eliminate two cult leaders and seize weapons.

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 The Rivers State Police command reported that its officers killed a sought-after cult leader, Silas Oderere, and his accomplice during a shootout in Oderereke community, Ahoada West Local Government Area of the state. Oderereke, also known as 'general,' led the Greenlanders' cult group in the Ubie clan in Ahoada West and had been evading capture for the past four years. Grace Iringe-Koko, a Superintendent of Police and spokesperson for the State Police Command, confirmed the demise of the two criminals in a statement issued in Port Harcourt on Sunday. Iringe-Koko stated that the notorious cult leader and his gang were involved in armed robbery, land grabbing, unauthorized sales of buildings, and brutal attacks on those who opposed them. The police received information about Oderereke's gang's robbery operation on January 11, 2024, involving the vandalization of the late monarch Eze Robinson O.  Robinson's property. In response, the police chased the criminals o

Addressing the increasing prevalence of counterfeit drugs: A worldwide necessity, according to Dr. Oche Otorkpa.

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  Globally, counterfeit drugs are responsible for the deaths of over 250,000 children annually, a number that continues to increase despite numerous efforts to combat this growing trend. The surge in counterfeit pharmaceuticals poses a complex and widespread problem, eroding trust in healthcare systems and endangering the lives of millions.  This article examines the contributing factors to the rise in fake drugs, the consequences for individuals and communities, and the multifaceted strategies needed to address this global challenge. What are counterfeit drugs? Counterfeit drugs, often falsely labeled as authentic, may contain ineffective, substandard, or harmful ingredients.  These deceptive medications infiltrate the legitimate pharmaceutical supply chain through various channels, including illegal online pharmacies, unauthorized distribution networks, and corrupt practices within the industry.  The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that up to 10% of drugs worldwide may be c

Gunmen seize the Chairman of a Local Government in Benue, along with three of his aides.

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 Gunmen abducted the Caretaker Chairman of Ukum Local Government Area in Benue State, Haanongon Gideon, and three others early on Saturday.  The chairman, along with his personal assistant, driver, and a police officer, was kidnapped around 6:30 am while en route to the burial of the paramount ruler of Katsina-Ala LG, Chief Fezaanga Wombo.  A press statement from the council secretary, Jonathan Modi, confirmed the incident and urged the local community to remain calm, assuring them that efforts are underway to secure the victims' release.  The state Commissioner for Information, Culture, and Tourism, Matthew Abo, also acknowledged the abduction.

The APC acknowledges the Supreme Court decisions regarding governorship disputes in Kano, Lagos, Abia, and other states.

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  The All Progressives Congress (APC) has stated that it received the Supreme Court's decisions on election petitions challenging the 2023 governorship elections in eight states with calmness.  In a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, the APC expressed satisfaction that the Supreme Court upheld the election results in Lagos, Ebonyi, and Cross River States in favor of the APC's governorship candidates.  However, Morka acknowledged that the appeals for Kano, Zamfara, Bauchi, Plateau, and Abia State governorship polls were decided in favor of other political parties, and the ruling party has accepted the outcomes.  The APC emphasized the finality and binding nature of the Supreme Court's decisions, praising the judiciary's authority, vibrancy, and independence.  Morka called for respect for the judiciary's role in resolving disputes, criticizing opposition figures, especially the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), for their attacks on the courts d

A hotelier and his girlfriend have been apprehended in connection with the murder of a socialite in Ondo.

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  The Nigeria Police have arrested two individuals, Adeojo Ilesanmi, 50, and Atinuke Adeniyi, 29, in connection with the brutal killing of Adebayo Oladoyinbo, a prominent socialite in Ondo State known as 'Saybayo.'  The arrests followed the discovery of the deceased's body in the Ijapo area of Akure, the state capital.  According to the State Police Public Relations Officer, Funmilayo Odunlami, the suspects were apprehended after a thorough investigation into the cause of the victim's death.  Odunlami revealed that Saybayo's lifeless body was found in his parked vehicle in Ijapo Estate, prompting the swift deployment of detectives to investigate.  The arrest of Atinuke, identified as the deceased's girlfriend, was based on intelligence, and she was taken into custody a day after the discovery of the body.

Tinubu calls on governors to increase investments in the school feeding program.

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 On Friday, President Bola Tinubu urged governors from the All Progressives Congress to prioritize the return of children to school by increasing investments in the school feeding program.  During a meeting with members of the Progressive Governors Forum in Abuja, Tinubu emphasized the importance of involving all governors, regardless of their political affiliation, in the school feeding program to promote education.  He urged officials to design and implement policies that prioritize all Nigerians and consider national interests over political affiliations.  This call coincided with the suspension of all administered Social Investment Programs, including the school feeding program, by the National Social Investment Programme Agency, citing an ongoing investigation into alleged malfeasance.  Tinubu highlighted the need for inclusivity, ownership, and sustainability in development policies, recognizing divisiveness as a significant challenge facing the nation. Hence, he emphasized that

Nigerian police caution citizens that the 'No gree for anybody' slogan has the potential to instigate a crisis.

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 The Nigerian Police Force strongly disapproves of the widely used slang, 'no go gree for anybody,' by youths and citizens across the country.  Despite its popularity, the police, represented by spokesperson Olumuyiwa Adejobi, has issued a warning, suggesting potential repercussions for those using the phrase.  Adejobi expressed concerns during a press briefing, stating that intelligence reports indicate the slogan might incite a revolutionary movement with disruptive consequences.  The police view 'no go gree for anybody' as a potentially dangerous slogan, contrary to its perceived meaning of staying true to personal beliefs. Social media has seen the circulation of memes and posts featuring the slogan, further contributing to its widespread attention.

A court has sentenced a fraudster to five years in jail for perpetrating a $1.6 million cryptocurrency fraud.

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 The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission successfully prosecuted and secured the conviction of Benjamin Ikaa before Justice Emeka Nwite at the Federal High Court, Abuja.  He received a five-year prison sentence for his involvement in a $1.6 million cryptocurrency fraud. The conviction was disclosed in a statement shared on the commission's Facebook page on Thursday. Ikaa pleaded guilty to a one-count charge, and the prosecuting counsel, Aso Larrys Peter, urged the court to convict him. The defense counsel, Abel Adaji, appealed for leniency, emphasizing the convict's remorsefulness and status as a first-time offender. Justice Nwite sentenced Ikaa to five years imprisonment with a fine option of N5,000,000. Additionally, Ikaa forfeited an iPhone 13 and a 2013 Toyota Avalon to the Federal government.  The $11,000 recovered from him will be returned to his victims. Ikaa also committed to abstain from cybercrime in the future. His involvement in the fraudulent scheme, operating

Baruwa contributes articles to LEADERSHIP.

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 Renowned Nigerian gender and development practitioner, feminist, and public speaker Olufunke Baruwa has taken on a new role as a columnist for LEADERSHIP Newspapers.  With over two decades of dedicated service in social policies and reforms, Baruwa succeeds Ayisha Osori, an accomplished lawyer, writer, and development practitioner. Baruwa has been a prominent advocate for women's inclusion in strategic political, social, and economic positions in Nigeria. Her extensive experience from 2000 to 2015 includes roles at the National Poverty Eradication Programme and the Ministry of Communication Technology. Throughout her career, Baruwa has shown a strong commitment to gender equality and public policy. In 2015, she became the CEO of the Nigerian Women's Trust Fund, a crucial resource for women in politics and decision-making.  Her leadership at the Fund earned recognition, including being named one of the '17 women changing the world' at the Institute for Inclusive Develop

CAN spearheads a protest condemning the killings in Plateau.

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  On Monday, the Christian Association of Nigeria led protests against ongoing killings in Plateau State and other parts of the country.  The protest, named "Plateau Peace Walk," was headed by state CAN chairman Rev. Polycarp Lubo, ECWA President Rev. Dr. Stephen Baba Panya, COCIN President Rev. Dr. Amos Mohzo, Catholic Bishop of Jos Most Rev. Mathew Audu, Methodist Bishop of Jos Rev. Nkechi Nwosu, and President of the Gideon and Funmi-ParaMallam Peace Foundation Rev. Dr. Gideon ParaMallam, along with other prominent Christian leaders. Dressed in black attire, the protesters began the peace walk at the PRTVC Roundabout in Jos around 9:30 am, proceeding to the Rayfield Government House, where they were received by top government officials, including the state governor, Caleb Mutfwang. Rev. Stephen Baba Panya, Chairman of the Denominational Leaders Forum in Plateau state and National Vice President of CAN, handed a protest letter to the governor for onward delivery to President

This year, Sanwo-Olu is committed to implementing and upholding laws.

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  Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, announced a commitment to enforcing laws in 2024 to safeguard lives and property. During the annual Lagos State Thanksgiving Service, he emphasized the importance of adhering to the rule of law for societal progress.  Sanwo-Olu, through his Chief Press Secretary, Gboyega Akosile, assured a focus on major project implementation aligned with the administration's development agenda.  He urged Lagosians to play their part in obeying laws, from taxes to traffic rules, waste disposal, and reporting lawbreakers. The governor emphasized government efforts to simplify law-abiding with transport reforms and Emergency Hotlines. Sanwo-Olu also pledged to sign the 2024 Lagos budget into law this week, marking a significant milestone in delivering promises to the people. He highlighted the T.H.E.M.E.S+ development agenda as a guiding framework for progress in the first full year of his second term.