The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has approved immediate relief payments to the families of police officers who tragically lost their lives in a fatal motor accident on September 24, 2024.

The officers were returning from a special duty assignment for the Edo elections when the accident occurred along the Zaria-Kano Expressway, Karfi Kura, resulting in the deaths of five officers and leaving 11 others hospitalized.

According to a statement by Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Muyiwa Adejobi, the IGP has sanctioned the payment of N10 million to the families of the deceased officers to help them navigate this challenging period. Additionally, N2 million will be paid to officers still receiving medical treatment, while those who have been discharged will receive N500,000 each.

Of the 11 officers initially hospitalized, eight have been discharged after receiving treatment, while three remain under medical care.

In his statement, IGP Egbetokun extended his deepest condolences to the families of the fallen officers and reiterated the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to supporting its personnel and their families in difficult times. He also wished a speedy recovery to those still undergoing treatment.

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By Victor AhiumaYoung

The Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, has demanded an immediate reversal of the fresh fuel price hike, saying it is an aberration that the NNPC is fixing fuel prices in a so-called deregulated sector.

According to the NLC, the federal government led by President Bola Tinubu should immediately reverse the latest hike in petrol price, as previous increases did not produce any positive result.

In a statement by its President, Joe Ajaero, the NLC contended that following the logic of market forces, it is an aberration that a private company (NNPCL) is the one fixing prices and projecting itself as a hegemonic monopoly.

The statement titled “What next after increase in pump price?” reads, “We are dismayed by the latest increase in the pump price of petrol. It looks like the only thing this government is known for is the increase in the pump price of petrol without commensurate capacity of Nigerians or mitigatory measures.

“Even following the logic of market forces, we find it an aberration that a private company (NNPCL) is the one fixing prices and projecting itself as a hegemonic monopoly. We challenge the government to go to the drawing board and present us with a blueprint for inclusive economic growth and national development instead of this spasmodic ad hocism and palliative policy.

“It needs no stating the fact that the latest wave of increase has grossly altered the calculations of Nigerians once again at a time they were reluctantly coming to terms with their new realities. It will further deepen poverty as production capacities dip, and more jobs lost with multidimensional negative effects.

“In light of this, we urge the government to immediately reverse this rate hike as previous increases did not produce any good results. People only got poorer. But more fundamentally, the government should be bold enough to tell Nigerians in advance the destination it wants to take the country.”

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In response to the violent aftermath of what was initially a peaceful post-local government election, the Rivers State Police Command has launched a full-scale investigation into the crisis, which saw several local government areas in the state vandalized and set ablaze on Monday.

The newly appointed Rivers State Commissioner of Police, Mustapha Mohammed, revealed this during an on-the-spot assessment of the affected areas. Speaking to journalists, CP Mohammed assured the public that measures are being taken to restore order and safety.

“We are conducting confidence-building patrols to reassure the public of their safety,” CP Mohammed stated. “As part of our proactive measures, we are assessing the situation and have launched a full investigation. A high-powered team, led by the Deputy Commissioner of the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID) and assisted by the Assistant Commissioner of Police, is in place to thoroughly investigate the matter.”

He emphasized that experienced police officers will handle the case and that a detailed report will be submitted to the Inspector General of Police upon completion of the investigation.

In his call for peace, CP Mohammed urged cooperation from all stakeholders, stating, “I am a peacemaker, and my message to everyone is to collaborate in maintaining law and order. The state is not volatile, and we will continue to ensure public safety. We are working with both state and non-state actors to secure the entire state.”

The Commissioner visited several affected local government areas, including Port Harcourt City (Phalga), Obio/Akpor, Emuoha, Ikwerre, and Eleme, as part of his assessment.

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FIRS chairman, Zacch Adedeji, launched the code at the Revenue House in Abuja as part of activities making this year’s Customer Service Week which has the theme Above and Beyond.

The initiative makes Nigeria the sixth African country to deploy USSD code for simplifying tax payment processes. .

A statement by Dare Adekanmbi, Special Adviser on Media to the FIRS chairman said taxpayers on any mobile telecommunication network in the country can now get across to FIRS real-time on issues relating to retrieval of Taxpayers Identification Number (TIN), verification of Tax Clearance Certificate (TCC), information on tax types and rates, locate the nearest FIRS office, and as well as get answers to general tax-related inquiries.

Speaking at the ceremony, Adedeji said the instant messaging protocol demonstrated further commitment of the agency to simplifying tax administration and ensuring that “every taxpayer—whether in bustling cities or remote areas—can engage with FIRS seamlessly.”

He called on taxpayers to enjoy the benefits that the USSD code offers and utilise the code for all their enquiries.

“With the *829# USSD code, taxpayers now have the power to: retrieve their Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN), verify their Tax Clearance Certificate (TCC), access information on tax types and rates, locate the nearest FIRS office, and get answers to general tax-related inquiries.

“Without the need for internet access, all of these services are now available with a simple mobile phone. This technological leap reflects our dedication to creating a tax system that is efficient, transparent, and responsive to the needs of taxpayers”, he said.

The agency also launched Customer Centricity Guide, a booklet containing policies, processes and procedures to ensure that FIRS keeps the taxpayers in their rightful position as ‘kings.’

“Equally important is the unveiling of the Customer Centricity Guide. This guide embodies our commitment to putting taxpayers at the centre of our service delivery.

“It outlines the principles and values that will drive our interactions with taxpayers by ensuring that every engagement is defined by respect, professionalism, and efficiency.

“The guide serves as a reminder to us all that the taxpayer is not just a client, but a valued partner in nation-building. Through the combination of the *829# USSD code and the Customer Centricity Guide, we are reinforcing a culture of service excellence and making tax compliance not just a duty but an experience that fosters trust and voluntary participation.

“As we celebrate this achievement, I encourage everyone to make full use of the *829# service and embrace the Customer Centricity Guide. Your feedback will be crucial as we continue to enhance these services and meet the evolving needs of our taxpayers,” he said.

The national coordinator of Servicom, Nnenna Akajemeli, praised the effort of the FIRS towards taxpayers’ satisfaction, noting that the efforts are evident.

“There are many things to congratulate the FIRS on. One is the launch of the USSD code *829# and the customer centricity guide. These initiatives which are simplifying tax and ensuring that citizens and taxpayers are delighted at the quality of service you render,” she said.

FIRS Director, Taxpayers’ Service Department, Loveth Onanuga noted the agency recognized that customer-centricity means more than just satisfying customers’ basic wants, but also going “above and beyond what customers anticipate and astonishing them with great service” in line with the theme of the week.

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NSUKKA – A tipper truck loaded with sharp sand has crushed three victims to death along the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, UNN, road in Nsukka Local Government Area of Enugu State, yesterday.

According to eyewitness accounts, the truck was descending the sloppy road from the Total Roundabout-UNN Road when the driver allegedly experienced brake failure leading to the fatal accident.

Another eyewitness who identified himself as Gabriel stated that the first victim of the accident was a plastic vendor who he he said was crushed to death by the truck.

He also said “An okada man carrying two passengers saw the truck and jumped off his motorcycle. While the Okada man was saved, the truck also crushed the two passengers to death. The motorcycle was equally rammed beneath it,” he said.

Vanguard gathered that about five vehicles queuing for petrol at an NNPC petrol station within the axis were equally damaged.

A driver of the UNN shuttle who escaped the accident by the skin of teeth said that it was only God who spared his life, adding that he alighted from his taxi to ease himself shortly before the incident.

It was equally learnt that so many others sustained various degrees of injury and were rushed to hospitals within the vicinity.

Meanwhile, the driver of the truck was said to have escaped unhurt during the accident as his whereabouts are still unknown at the time of filing this report.

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As Professor Ishaq Oloyede turns 70 tomorrow, October 10, I pay a special tribute to this astute administrator, educator, author, and scholar, currently the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) Registrar.

As the former Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Oloyede’s invaluable contributions to the nation through academia and public-sector administration have significantly impacted the academic community.

His impactful tenure at the University of Ilorin, during which he introduced landmark ideas and innovations that helped the institution attain enviable heights, is on record.

Through patriotic dedication and commitment to his craft, Prof Oloyede imparted knowledge and character to thousands of students who underwent his teaching during his glorious and impactful academic career.

Indeed, the bedrock of development lies in education. Developing nations, including Nigeria, are in dire need of more scholars like Prof. Oloyede. His selfless sacrifices and innovative approaches to learning and leadership give hope for a brighter future.

Perhaps more remarkable is Prof. Oloyede’s transformative leadership at JAMB. He pioneered and sustained a series of reforms and technological innovations that have made the admission process in Nigeria transparent and credible.

In his eight years of stewardship at the board, thus far, Prof. Oloyede has demonstrated an uncommon commitment to financial integrity and accountability in public service. He has also raised the bar in administration and management.

I am proud of Prof. Oloyede’s accomplishments.

The nation owes the Professor of Islamic Jurisprudence a debt of gratitude for transforming JAMB, traditionally a non-revenue-generating government agency, into a consistent contributor to the national treasury through efficient financial management. His contributions to JAMB are invaluable and greatly appreciated.

On this occasion of his 70th birthday, I join members of the academic community, students, JAMB staff, and well-wishers in celebrating this scholar who, in words and deeds, has also done a lot to propagate the Islamic religion.

I pray that Almighty Allah will continue to honour the distinguished professor with health, wisdom and strength to serve the nation for many more years.

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“There’s been a reckless, irresponsible and relentless promotion of disinformation and outright lies,” Biden told a briefing at the White House as monster storm Milton barreled towards Florida.

Trump, the Republican presidential nominee, “has led the onslaught of lies,” said Biden, who was accompanied by Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic candidate in November’s election.

Biden said the disinformation was “undermining confidence” in rescue and recovery work and it was “harmful to those who need help the most.”

Trump and Republicans have been pushing false claims over the storms, targeting in particular the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and falsely accusing the government of misappropriating its funds for migrants.

“Assertions have been made that property is being confiscated. That’s simply not true. They’re saying people impacted by these storms will receive $750 in cash and no more. That’s simply not true,” said Biden.

“They’re saying the money needed for this crisis is being diverted to migrants. What a ridiculous thing to say. It’s not true.”

Biden also slammed the “even more bizarre” claims being promoted by pro-Trump Republican Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene.

Greene was “now saying the federal government is literally controlling the weather… It’s beyond ridiculous. It’s got to stop.”

Biden also repeated his warnings that Florida residents in the affected areas should evacuate immediately.

“It’s looking like the storm of the century,” he said. “It’s literally a matter of life and death.”

Harris meanwhile promised to crack down on anyone gouging prices of essential goods like food, fuel and accommodation as Hurricane Milton drew near landfall.

Biden postponed a trip to Germany and Angola on Tuesday and has been heavily promoting the White House’s efforts in recent days for both Milton and the response to Helene, which killed more than 230 people across the southeastern United States.

Biden and Harris were stung by criticism of their initial response to Hurricane Helene, when the president spent the weekend working from his beach house and the vice president was at an election fundraiser on the US west coast.

Vanguard News

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A statement in Asaba on Wednesday by Mr Okezi Odugala, and Prince Emmanuel Ogan, Chairman and Secretary of the forum, said the rift should be urgently addressed to prevent a backlash on the development of the state.

The statement said:  “We recognise that this rift has far-reaching implications for the stability, security, and development of Rivers State, and by extension, the entire Niger Delta region.

”The ongoing feud threatens to undermine the progress made in the state and exacerbate existing social, economic and political challenges.

“In light of this, we are compelled to intervene and embark on a peace mission to broker reconciliation between the two leaders.”

The statement added,”Our objective is to facilitate a constructive dialogue that addresses the underlying issues, fosters mutual understanding, and promotes peaceful coexistence.”

The group urged Wike and Fubara to prioritize the interests of Rivers and its people above personal and political differences.

The group also appealed to both leaders to engage in constructive dialogue, facilitated by the Forum to resolve their differences and work towards a united goal of developing Rivers .

According to the group, all stakeholders, including political parties, community leaders and citizens are encouraged to support this peace initiative and refrain from actions that may exacerbate the situation.

It also said that the forum would also convene a stakeholders’ meeting to bring together key actors and interest groups to promote understanding and peaceful resolution of the dispute.

It said that it would establish a conflict resolution mechanism to address future disputes and ensure sustainable peace.

“We are committed to working tirelessly to ensure that peace is restored in Rivers State.

“We believe that through collective effort and goodwill, we can overcome the current challenges and build a brighter future for the people of Rivers,” the statement added

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Urhobo leaders have renewed their call for the creation of an Urhobo State from the present Delta State, emphasizing their majority status and the region’s economic viability.

The call was made in a statement issued by the Committee for the Creation of Urhobo State, led by prominent Urhobo chiefs, who underscored that the Urhobos remain the single largest ethnic group in Delta State, constituting more than 50% of its population.

Spread across the three senatorial districts, the Urhobos hold dominance in Delta Central and maintain a significant presence in Delta South and Delta North.

The committee highlighted that the Urhobos have historically been a major force in the defunct Midwest Region and Bendel State and continue to dominate in Delta State, making a strong case for a new state.

According to the group, the Urhobos are not only the largest ethnic group in Delta State but also the fourth-largest ethnic nationality in Nigeria. They argue that the proposed Urhobo State would thrive due to its rich oil and gas reserves, agricultural potential, and existing institutions.

“The Urhobo people, who contribute over 50% of Delta State’s oil and gas production, have the economic and agricultural capacity to sustain a new state,” the statement read. It also noted that Urhobo land is home to vast forest reserves, including those in Mosogar, Abraka, and Oghara, and has the potential to boost both local and international food production.

The committee cited numerous existing educational and industrial institutions within Urhobo territories, including Delta State University in Abraka, the Federal University of Petroleum Resources in Effurun, the Petroleum Training Institute, and various oil and gas companies such as Chevron Nigeria Limited and Shell Petroleum Development Company. These, they argued, provide a strong foundation for the establishment of a new state.

The leaders recalled previous attempts to push for the creation of Urhobo State, noting that calls for its creation predate the establishment of the defunct Bendel State. Past Urhobo representatives, including Senator Felix Ibru and Senator Adegor Eferakeya, also championed the cause at the National Assembly.

The statement signed by Chief (Sir) Dr. Obiuwevbi Ominimini, Chairman, Chief Dr. Wilson Omene, Director of Publicity, Chief Engr Anthony Onyokoko, Secretary, Chief Mathias Efe Olowu, Assistant Secretary, Chief Felix Edewor, Director of Mobilization, and Rtn Clement Udi, Director of Organization, further urged current Urhobo leaders, including Senator Ede Dafinone, to revive this effort at the National Assembly.

Chief (Sir) Dr. Obiuwevbi Ominimini, Chairman of the Committee for the Creation of Urhobo State, called on all Urhobo sons and daughters, both at home and abroad, to unite in support of the movement. The committee stressed that any Urhobo person supporting the creation of any other state in Delta is working against the collective interest of the Urhobo people.

“The benefits of state creation should not elude the majority for the minority,” the statement emphasized. It also pointed out that creating Urhobo State would bring the South-South geopolitical zone to parity with the North-West, as both regions would have seven states each.

The group concluded by urging all Urhobo stakeholders to embrace the call for the creation of Urhobo State, reiterating that the state would foster growth, development, and equality for its people.

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Dr Tunji Alausa, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, disclosed this in an interview with Newsmen on Wednesday in Abuja.

Alausa said that the development, which has been cleared for gazetting, was expected to enhance the operational capacity of local pharmaceutical manufacturers and reduce the prices of essential healthcare supplies.

“The new framework allows the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and the Nigeria Customs Service to implement these tax exemptions, paving the way for local producers to fully benefit from the relief measures initiated by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” he said.

The minister anticipated that this initiative would alleviate the financial burden on millions of Nigerians reliant on critical health supplies, aligning with its commitment to improving healthcare access and affordability.

“This is a critical milestone that will foster a healthier, more self-reliant nation.

“By supporting local manufacturers, we are unlocking the healthcare value chain and making quality healthcare more accessible for all,” he said.

He said that the gazetting of the Harmonised Implementation Framework marked a key achievement in the Ministry’s 4-point agenda, which stressed the importance of local production in strengthening the nation’s health sector.

“Copies of the framework will be disseminated to relevant agencies for prompt action, signalling a concerted effort to improve healthcare delivery across Nigeria,” he disclosed.

He said that the initiative was widely viewed as a positive step toward stabilising the pharmaceutical market and ensuring that essential medications and medical devices were available at lower costs.

The minister said that it would also enhance the overall health outcomes for the Nigerian populace.

NAN reports that the Nigerian healthcare system has faced persistent challenges, including high costs for essential medications and medical devices, which have adversely affected access to healthcare for millions of citizens.

Recognising the need for reform, the government has prioritised initiatives to support local pharmaceutical manufacturing and reduce the financial burden on consumers.

In recent years, the Federal Government, under President Tinubu, has introduced various measures aimed at revitalizing the healthcare sector, including the Executive Order on zero VAT for pharmaceutical products.

This order is part of a broader strategy to enhance healthcare delivery by fostering local production capabilities, thereby ensuring that Nigerians have access to affordable and quality health supplies.

The Executive Order aligns with the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare’s four-point agenda, which focuses on improving healthcare access, promoting local manufacturing, and strengthening the healthcare value chain.

The successful finalisation and implementation of the Harmonised Implementation Framework mark a significant step in the government’s commitment to achieving these goals.

By eliminating VAT and excise duties, the government aims to stimulate the local pharmaceutical industry, reduce the prices of essential drugs, and improve the overall health outcomes for Nigerians.

This move is expected to create a more sustainable healthcare system while encouraging the growth of local manufacturers.

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The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the river, during the rainy season, often overflows its banks, destroying homes and leaving many displaced.

According to Ken Omusi, youth leader of the community, Gov. Godwin Obaseki had promised in July that the contract for the river’s dredging had been awarded to a contractor.

Omusi said that no equipment nor workers had been mobilized to the site since July when the state government allegedly gave the contract.

He said the river’s overflow had caused massive erosion in the community and destruction of lives and property.

According to him, members of the community wept when floods swept away a young boy recently.

A resident, Mrs Ijeh Isoken, lamented the loss of personal effects and the tragic loss of the young boy.

“We’ve been searching for his body, even hiring divers, but to no avail.

“We beg the governor to intervene to prevent another tragedy,” she said.

”The community is calling on the state government to mobilize the contractor to start dredging the river.”

Edo government had recently announced plans to dredge the Ikpoba River to address flooding, including the development of the Benin Port Project.

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Akpabio said this, shortly after the senate resumed from a closed session over a motion sponsored by Sen.Tony Nwoye, (LP-Anambra).

The motion by Nwoye, was on an alleged attempt by some state governments through their Houses of Assemblies to enact laws to circumvent the ruling of the Supreme Court to grant financial autonomy to local governments.

Akpabio said: “We stand solidly behind the Supreme Court judgement and pronouncement on the local government autonomy.

“We have looked at the motion and saw that some of the prayers would conflict with the existing provisions within the constitution, and we have jointly agreed on two prayers.

“Because we believe strongly that if there is any legacy that this administration and indeed the 10th Senate and National Assembly will live behind, it is the legacy of sanitising the local government.

“Also by ensuring that the local government funds are fully utilised for the benefits of rural people,”.

Senate, thereafter, approved the two prayers out of the six prayers advanced by Sen.Tony Nwoye in his motion.

Senate consequently urged all state and local governments to fully comply to the recent Supreme Court judgement on the disbursement and utilisation of funds accrued to all local governments in Nigeria.

Senate also pledged to ensure alterations to relevant provisions of the constitution to provide full autonomy to local governments in Nigeria.

Akpabio thanked the lawmakers for all their contributions especially Sen. Tony Nwoye, who brought out the motion on an attempt to circumvent the ruling of the Supreme Court.

“I want to assure you that the national assembly will alter any aspect of our constitution and amend any section of our law to ensure full autonomy for local government administration in Nigeria.”

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By Hope Ejairu

Pictures serve as cherished representations of memories, especially for those created during adventurous journeys and tourist activities.

However, it is essential to recognise that certain locations worldwide prohibit photography.

Hence, below are four places where taking pictures is illegal, according to London-based Digital nomad entrepreneur, Adam Collins.

The Sistine Chapel, Vatican City (Rome)

The Vatican’s Sistine Chapel, a cultural icon, enforces a strict no-photography policy to shield its irreplaceable artwork from damage. The ban, in place to protect Michelangelo’s celebrated frescoes, is rigorously enforced. Visitors must admire the masterpieces, including the ceiling artwork (1508-1512), without capturing them on camera. This preservation effort prioritizes the chapel’s artistic and spiritual heritage.

The Eiffel Tower at Night (France)

Capturing the Eiffel Tower’s daytime beauty is fair game, but nighttime photos can be legally tricky. The tower’s illuminated display is copyrighted, and commercial use without permission can lead to lawsuits. Designed by Pierre Bideau in 1985, the 336-spotlight spectacle is a work of art protected by law. While personal photos are often overlooked, professionals and businesses must obtain permission to use nighttime images.

Alamo in San Antonio (USA)

The Alamo, a symbol of Texas’ fight for independence, prohibits photography inside its historic buildings. This camera-free zone encourages visitors to connect with the site’s poignant history and solemn atmosphere, honoring the lives lost during the 1836 Battle of the Alamo. People are advised to leave their cameras behind and experience the Alamo’s haunting beauty.

The Taj Mahal (India)

Photography is allowed in the Taj Mahal’s gardens and exterior, but prohibited inside the main mausoleum to preserve its delicate marble work. Built by Emperor Shah Jahan in 1631, this stunning monument honors his wife and himself. People are expected to respect the rules to avoid penalties, thereby appreciating the Taj Mahal’s breathtaking beauty.

Vanguard News

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By Ibrahim Hassan-Wuyo 

Amid rising petrol prices and the resulting economic strain, leaders from the Nigerian Baptist Conference, Senator Shehu Sani, and former Kaduna State Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Chairman, Rev. Joseph John Hayab, have urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene in the interest of the masses.

Speaking at the 64th Baptist Ministers Conference in Kaduna on Wednesday, the leaders highlighted the severe impact of fuel price hikes on Nigerians’ daily lives.

Senator Shehu Sani, representing Kaduna Central in the 8th Assembly, acknowledged the widespread suffering caused by economic reforms. He stressed that while transformation comes with sacrifices, it should not be borne solely by the poor, urging leaders in power to set an example by making personal sacrifices.

“We are a nation of 224 million people, and we cannot ignore the serious economic challenges facing the masses. The President, Ministers, Governors, Senators, and those in authority must lead by making sacrifices to move the nation forward,” Sani emphasized.

Rev. Israel Akanji, President of the Nigerian Baptist Conference, echoed similar sentiments, urging the government to manage the pace of economic reforms to ease the burden on citizens. He called for relief in fuel prices, stating that lower fuel costs would positively affect food prices, rent, and school fees.

Rev. Joseph Hayab, former CAN Chairman, also pointed out that while progress had been made in the fight against terrorism, the ongoing threat of kidnapping and violence continues to haunt the country. He urged the government to take decisive action to eliminate all terrorists and restore peace and security for the people.

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By Luminous Jannamike

ABUJA – The Nigeria Democratic Front (NDF) has vowed to expose and prosecute elected leaders implicated in aiding bandits, amid growing concerns over the country’s escalating insecurity.

This vow comes against the backdrop of allegations linking a serving member of the National Assembly to the notorious bandit Abubakar Idris.

Idris, a bandit kingpin associated with numerous cases of banditry and kidnapping in Zamfara State, is currently in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS).

Ikenna Ellis-Ezenekwe, National Spokesperson for the NDF, condemned this alleged complicity in a statement issued to journalists on Wednesday.

He emphasized the need for accountability and swift action, asserting that the group will not tolerate betrayal by elected leaders.

Ellis-Ezenekwe stated, “The spiralling insecurity in Nigeria has reached an alarming level, leaving the nation teetering on the brink of collapse. The Nigerian people demand investigation and accountability.

“The current allegations linking a lawmaker to a notorious bandit cast a long and dark shadow over the integrity of the National Assembly. This disturbing connection between a sitting senator and a wanted bandit cannot be overlooked.

“Allowing a federal lawmaker under investigation to continue in a sensitive security role threatens to undermine efforts to address Nigeria’s security crisis. We demand the immediate suspension of the legislator from sensitive security duties until a thorough investigation is concluded.

“The Nigerian people deserve to know the full truth, and anyone found guilty must face the full weight of the law.”

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Nigeria host the first game at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, Uyo on Friday evening, with the return at the Martyrs of Benina Stadium in Benina, 19 kilometres from Libya’s second city Benghazi, on Tuesday night.

“We have to be practical about it: our best and surest route to the finals will be to pick up the six points in the matches with Libya, and be somewhat guaranteed of a place in Morocco even before Matchday 5. We don’t want to be in any anxiety in the run-in in this qualifying campaign.

“I admit we will miss Victor (Osimhen), but I believe in the other strikers available to get us the goals that will give us the three points in Uyo, and the three points in Libya.”

Twenty of the 23 invited players trained in Uyo on Tuesday evening, with defender Bright Osayi-Samuel and forwards Kelechi Iheanacho and Chidera Ejuke arriving on Wednesday morning.

Leaders Nigeria have four points from their two matches so far, one point ahead of Benin Republic and two ahead of Rwanda. The Eagles will go to 10 points with a double win over Libya, while both teams on Nigeria’s heels are in attrition and are bound to chop at each other’s advantage one way or the other.

Wins for Benin Republic in both matches will take them to nine points, still short of Nigeria’s probable tally of 10, but Rwanda will remain stuck at two and Libya one, with only two matches left in the campaign. Wins for Rwanda will leave Benin Republic stuck at three points and Rwanda at eight.

“There are possibilities and opportunities for us to sail home at the end of these two matches, and we will do our best to take our chances and have the ticket in hand before the final round of games,” Eguavoen reiterated.

The delegation of Libya’s Mediterranean Knights landed at the Port Harcourt International Airport around noon on Tuesday, before moving to Uyo by road.

Malawian referee Godfrey Philip Nkhakananga, who will be at the centre during Friday’s encounter, alongside the other match officials, are already in the Akwa Ibom State capital.

The Confederation of African Football has also appointed Nkhakananga’s compatriots, Clemence Kanduku and Joseph Nyauti as assistant referees 1 ad 2 respectively, while Botswanan Keabetswe Dintwa will serve as fourth official.

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A Magistrate Court in Abakaliki has remanded Mr. Augustine Nwazunku, the former Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Ebonyi State, along with three other suspects, over allegations of cultism, forgery, impersonation, and the illegal suspension of Chief Ali Odefa, the South East National Vice Chairman of the PDP.

Magistrate Ojemba Isu-oko denied the defendants’ bail application, submitted by their counsel, U. A. Obasi, and ordered the four suspects to be held in prison custody until November 18, 2024.

The five-count charge against Nwazunku and his co-defendants—Obinna Nwachukwu, Njoku Nwagwu, and Ogbonnaya Idika—includes allegations of forging a letter purporting to come from PDP executives of the Ogudu-Okwor ward in Oshiri, which falsely claimed the suspension of Chief Odefa.

The suspects are also accused of being members of the proscribed secret cult known as the Vikings confraternity, violating Section 3 (1) (3) of the Ebonyi State Law prohibiting secret cult activities and the carrying of offensive weapons, punishable under Section 5 of the same law.

The charges state that on October 2, 2024, at Ogudu-Okwor Onicha, the defendants conspired to commit various felonies, including cultism, forgery, impersonation, and conduct likely to cause a breach of peace, thereby committing an offense under Section 516 A (a) of the Criminal Code Laws of Ebonyi State.

The allegations also assert that the group conducted themselves in a manner likely to incite disaffection among the PDP executives and falsely represented themselves as executives of the Ogudu-Okwor ward, intending to defraud.

Mr. Nwazunku previously oversaw the HIV and AIDS Agency in Ebonyi State and contested the 2023 gubernatorial election against his younger brother, Chukwuma.

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The Nigerian Army announced on Wednesday that it has initiated a military investigation into allegations of administrative discrepancies against Brigadier General MA Sadiq, Commander of the 3 Brigade in Kano.

In a statement issued by Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, Director of Army Public Relations, it was confirmed that General Sadiq has been relieved of his command to facilitate a thorough inquiry.

Nwachukwu emphasized the Army’s commitment to discipline and accountability, stating, “The Nigerian Army, as a self-regulatory institution, has zero tolerance for indiscipline and will not condone any misconduct that undermines its core values.”

The statement addressed recent media reports highlighting allegations against General Sadiq, including accusations of misappropriating palliative supplies meant for soldiers and their families.

Reports suggest that he allegedly withheld palliatives, such as rice, provided by the Defence Headquarters, and instead sold military equipment intended for operations against terrorists and kidnappers, including generator sets and operational vehicles.

Further allegations claim that Sadiq misappropriated official military property, including a MIKANO heavy-duty generator, which was reportedly sold to scrap dealers. In light of these allegations, General Sadiq has been replaced by Brigadier General A.M. Tukur, a former registrar of the Nigerian Defence Academy.

Sources indicate that General Sadiq is currently detained at a military police facility in Abuja. The Army reassured both internal and external stakeholders that the investigation would be conducted fairly and impartially, adhering to established procedures.

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This initiative, aimed at easing the transition to cleaner energy, was announced by the National Orientation Agency (NOA) on Tuesday.

According to a statement shared on NOA’s X handle, the platform offers flexible payment plans, enabling users to convert their vehicles and pay in affordable monthly installments. The agency highlighted the simplicity of the process, stating, “Switching to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) is now more accessible than ever. With tailored payment options, converting from petrol to CNG has never been smoother or more affordable.”

The website, accessible at gocng.ng, allows for an easy online application and quick approval process, ensuring a seamless experience for users. NOA outlined the benefits of CNG adoption, including significant cost savings, reduced environmental impact, enhanced engine longevity, safety, and reliability.

This development follows the government’s recent October 7 launch of a portal enabling youths to access CNG-powered tricycles under the Presidential CNG Initiative (P-CNGi). Project Director and CEO of P-CNGi, Michael Oluwagbemi, emphasized that the initiative would improve the economic well-being of Nigerians by reducing reliance on petrol, thus promoting cleaner, more sustainable energy solutions.

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ABUJA – The Niger Delta Youth Network (NDYN) has expressed outrage over the repeated delays in commencing fuel production at the Port Harcourt refinery, despite numerous promises.

The refinery, with a capacity of 210,000 barrels per day, was expected to start refining 60,000 barrels of crude oil daily after reaching mechanical completion of rehabilitation work last December.

However, six postponements have occurred as of August 2024, fueling suspicions of a deliberate attempt to exploit the region’s crude oil producers.

According to Dakuku Francis, NDYN’s spokesperson, the latest broken promise is a clear indication of the government’s lack of commitment to the region’s development.

In a statement on Wednesday, Francis condemned the continued delay, noting that the failure to meet the September 2024 deadline has exacerbated regional tensions and raised concerns about the government’s sincerity.

NDYN alleged that plans are underway to utilize the Port Harcourt refinery as a blending company, importing fuel into the country, mixing it with chemicals, and selling it to the people of the Niger Delta region, potentially harming their health and the environment.

The group claimed this move would perpetuate the country’s dependence on imported fuel, undermining energy security and economic sovereignty.

According to him, the Niger Delta region, which produces the majority of the country’s crude oil, deserves fair treatment and equitable benefits from the oil and gas sector.

NDYN demanded a clear and realistic timeline for the commencement of fuel production at the Port Harcourt refinery, an explanation for the repeated delays, and transparency in dealings with regional crude oil producers.

They said, “The lack of transparency and accountability has exacerbated regional tensions. We are demanding answers and action; the repeated delays are part of a larger plot to exploit our region’s resources. The failure to provide a clear timeline for the commencement of fuel production has created uncertainty and distrust among stakeholders.

“The silence on the reasons behind the repeated delays and broken promises has raised questions about the commitment to the region’s development. We are concerned that the plan to use Port Harcourt as a blending company will harm the health of our people.

“The environmental implications of this plan are equally alarming. Our region is already vulnerable to environmental degradation due to decades of oil exploration and exploitation.

“The Niger Delta region, which produces the majority of the country’s crude oil, deserves fair treatment and equitable benefits from the oil and gas sector. We demand a clear and realistic timeline for the commencement of fuel production at the Port Harcourt refinery.

“There must be transparency in dealings with regional crude oil producers, including regular updates and engagement with stakeholders.”

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