A Federal High Court sitting in Benin City, on Friday, sentenced Miss Isaac Christiana Nkemdirim to eight months imprisonment, Igbere TV reports.

She was arraigned before Justice M. G. Umar by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Benin Zonal Office.

Igbere TV reports that Nkemdirim was convicted on one count charge of obtaining money from her victims by false pretence.

The offense is contrary to Section 15(2)(a) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2002 as amended and punishable under 15(3) of the same Act.

The charge read, “That you, Isaac Christiana Nkemdirim (alias Ama Christiana, Isaac Christian and one Favour Chinonso (alias Steve Obinna (at large), on or about 23rd of August, 2018 within the jurisdiction of this honourable court did conceal or disguises the origin of the sum of N150,000 (One Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira) which you transferred to your Account 0775064177 domiciled in Access Bank PLC, which you knew or reasonably ought to have known that the said amount forms part of the proceeds of unlawful Act to wit: obtaining money by false pretenses and thereby committed an offence contrary to section 15 (2) (a) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2012 as amended and punishable under section 15 (3) of the same Act.”

Upon her arraignment, Nkemdirim pleaded guilty to the charge.

Based on her plea, the prosecution counsel, Fredrick O. Dibang prayed the court to convict and sentence the defendant accordingly.

However, the defence counsel prayed the court to temper justice with mercy as his client was a first time offender and a youth who has promised never to go back to the crime.

Igbere TV reports that Justice M.G. Umar, thereafter, convicted and sentenced the defendant to eight ( months imprisonment without an option of fine.

http://igberetvnews.com/804433/just-in-yahoo-girl-bags-8-months-jail-term-photo/

Cc: Lalasticlala, Mynd44, OAM4J

Aggrieved youths of Okada community, near Benin City, Edo State, yesterday, murdered a yet-to-be identified Fulani man to avenge the death of an indigene, Igbere TV reports.

Igbere TV had reported on Tuesday that the woman was allegedly raped and murdered by suspected Fulani Herdsmen who have been terrorising the community.

Residents of the community took to the streets and blocked the ever-busy Benin-Ore expressway for several hours, thereby disrupting vehicular movements.

A check by Igbere TV on Thursday showed that the incident had degenerated into a major crisis late Tuesday night, Wednesday.

A resident of the community who spoke to our correspondent said the indigenes are on the hunt for her killers and already going after Fulani residents.

The Fulani man murdered on Wednesday is said to be among the penetrators of the crime.

It was learnt that the aggrieved youths had already murdered and cut off his legs by the time security agents arrived.

An eyewitness said the man was caught with arms around the farm where the victim had gone to before she was raped and killed.

When contacted by Igbere TV, the Edo State Commissioner of Police, DanMallam Muhammed, said the police had begun investigation into the incident.

He, however, decried that the residents took law into their hands “without waiting for the police investigation.”

The woman went to the farm and she was later discovered dead. The youth suspected it that herdsmen killed her but nobody saw the herdsmen killing her.”

http://igberetvnews.com/795907/protest-as-fulani-herdsmen-rape-murder-a-lady-graphics-photo/

Popular singer, Simi has revealed the reason why she tied the knot with her hubby, Adekunle Gold, Igbere TV reports.

The singer who said ‘Yes I do’ earlier this year, revealed in an Instagram post obtained by Igbere TV that she derives pleasure in inheriting her husband’s wears.

According to her, that played a huge part in her getting married.

She said right now she could wear all his clothes and never give them back to Adekunle Gold.

She wrote: “Only reason I got married was so I could wear all his clothes and never give them back. that’s the only reason why he didn’t want to get married. So love is compromise. Compromise is her having her way.”

http://igberetvnews.com/802446/why-i-got-married-to-adekunle-gold-simi

Thank you.

Changes effected.

Tolexander:
It is Ubakala, not Ubalaka

All these mushroom traditional rulers in the east sha

Tropical Arctic Logistics Limited (TAL), the owners of the helicopter that picked a passenger at the Benin–Ore expressway, has explained the reason behind its action.

Igbere TV had reported on how an helicopter picked up a road user who was reportedly stranded in traffic for over two hours on the ever-busy Benin-Ore expressway.

Reacting in a statement made available to Igbere TV on Thursday, the airline operators said the chopper embarked on “emergency medical evacuation” to save a life.

The company said it got clearance from the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), saying it did not breach any aviation regulation in its bid to conduct “life-saving operations”.

The statement signed by TAL’s Chief Operating Officer, Engr. Femi Adeniji, said the company was surprised at the “undue outrage” the airline's action was gaining globally.

Full Statement,

“We wish to state that our mission for that flight was to save lives, we immediately swung into action and rushed to the site in record time to pick the individual who is currently recuperating in the hospital.

“We are a licensed logistics company to carry out medical evacuation operations and was engaged to airlift an individual who suffered a serious health challenge while caught in traffic and needed emergency evacuation on the day in question.

“The Benin–Ore road evacuation was conducted in close collaboration with security agencies , the Nigerian Army and Nigerian Police worked assiduously in trying to clear the gridlock caused by the on going road construction.

“They directed us to a clear portion of the road where the operation was handled free from any incident.”

Igbere TV reports that the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) said it has begun full scale investigation into the act.

http://igberetvnews.com/802446/just-in-why-our-chopper-landed-on-benin-ore-expressway-operators/

How come the award is carrying May?
Dem don run am down since last month?

The Court of Appeal sitting in Owerri on Tuesday sentenced a traditional ruler to two years imprisonment over alleged financial misappropriation, Igbere TV reports.

The accused identified as Eze Bob Ubiaru, is the paramount ruler of Ipupe Autonomous Community in Ubakala, Umuahia South Local Government Area of Abia State.

Igbere TV reports that the Abia State High Court had in its earlier ruling, delivered same judgement. What this implies is that the Appeal Court only upheld the previous ruling by the High Court.

Igbere TV reports that the traditional ruler is accused of embezzling the sum of 40, out of 60 million naira belonging to the community.

The money, Igbere TV learnt, was meant for the compensation of his community for the construction of National Integrated Power Project (NIPP) electricity transmission lines from Enugu through the Ipupe Community.

Igbere TV gathered that the 60 million was paid as compensation to the ruler to relocate the community shrines in order to give way for the power project that passed through the area.

In its ruling on Tuesday, the Appeal Court affirmed the High Court’s judgement that the sum of N10 million in a deposit account in First Bank Plc, fixed by Eze Ubiaru from the proceeds of crime, be forfeited and given to the true representatives of Ipupe community.

The Court also ruled that the shares bought by the ruler from the proceeds of crime be forfeited, sold and the money realised given to the same representatives of the community.

The Appeal Court, however, gave Eze Ubiaru an option of three million naira fine, in place of the two years imprisonment.

http://igberetvnews.com/802380/just-in-court-jails-traditional-ruler-over-n40-million/

Cc: Lalasticlala, Mynd44, OAM4J

President Muhammadu Buhari and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), on Thursday, lost out in their appeal against the Peoples Democratic Movement (PDM).

Igbere TV reports Mr. Buhari and INEC had filed an application seeking a dismissal of the petition filed by the PDM at the Presidential Election Petitions Tribunal (PEPT).

PDM and its candidate, Mr. Aminchi Habu, are challenging their exclusion from the February 23 Presidential Election ballot.

In their petition sighted by Igbere TV on Thursday, Mr. Habu and the PDM are asking the tribunal to nullify the election and order the conduct of a fresh one, with their names and logo included.

On the other hand, Mr. Buhari and INEC were asking the tribunal to strike out the petition on the grounds that “it did not file for notice of pre-trial within the seven days after the close of pleading, as stipulated by law.”

In its ruling on Thursday, the tribunal held that findings from its own record showed that the application of the petitioners was actually made “well within the 7 days provided by law”.

The PEPT, therefore, dismissed the two applications by Mr. Buhari and INEC for “being unmeritorious.”

http://igberetvnews.com/802185/breaking-buhari-inec-loses-out-at-tribunal/

Cc: Lalasticlala, Mynd44, OAM4J

England

Tolexander:


Which queen?

More photos...

Senate President, Dr. Ahmad Lawan, was among the special guests who graced the Queen's 95th birthday party in Abuja, Igbere TV reports.

Igbere TV reports that the event was held at the residence of British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Catriona Laing.

Our correspondent reports that many dignitaries, including Ambassadors to other countries, government functionaries, UK representatives, graced the occasion

Photos below...

http://igberetvnews.com/800008/taxi-driver-arrested-for-kidnapping-10-children-in-abuja/

Cc: Lalasticlala, Mynd44, OAM4J

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eTc1XqfEcwo

A student transit cab caught fire in the early hours of today on Ugbowo main campus of the University of Benin, Edo State, Igbere TV reports.

Our correspondent reports that luckily, no life was lost in the fire incident.

Igbere TV reports that the Audi car with plate number BEN-302RF was heading towards ‘Buka’ area from main gate when it caught fire at the front of NDDC hostel.

One of the occupants of the vehicle told Igbere TV that the fire started from the bonnet after they observed some irregularities with the gear selector.

She said: “We were just coming from main gate and heading towards our hostel when we noticed smoke coming from the gear selector.

“We quickly alerted the driver and he made urgent attempt to open the car's bonnet.

“Unfortunately, the bonnet was already hot. By the time he managed to open the bonnet a fire suddenly ignited from nowhere and the next thing we heard was a ‘BOOM’. The vehicle was gone”

Our correspondent reports that about four female students were on board at the time and they all managed to to escape unhurt.

Igbere TV learnt that by the time the university's Fire Service arrived the scene, the vehicle had burnt down completely.

It was alleged that the Fire Service vehicles lacked enough water to quench the fire.

By the time our news crew arrived the scene, the fire fighters had managed to put out the fire and the carcass of the burnt automobile was seen lying across the road.

Also, the driver of the cab was seen in uncontrollable tears. It was gathered that he is not the owner of the vehicle but operating it on hire purchase also known as ‘balance and carry.'

See photos obtained exclusively by Igbere TV below...

http://igberetvnews.com/785688/breaking-vehicle-burst-into-flame-in-front-of-uniben-hostel-photos/

Cc: Lalasticlala, Mynd44, OAM4J

A student transit cab caught fire in the early hours of today on Ugbowo main campus of the University of Benin, Edo State, Igbere TV reports.

Our correspondent reports that luckily, no life was lost in the fire incident.

Igbere TV reports that the Audi car with plate number BEN-302RF was heading towards ‘Buka’ area from main gate when it caught fire at the front of NDDC hostel.

One of the occupants of the vehicle told Igbere TV that the fire started from the bonnet after they observed some irregularities with the gear selector.

She said: “We were just coming from main gate and heading towards our hostel when we noticed smoke coming from the gear selector.

“We quickly alerted the driver and he made urgent attempt to open the car's bonnet.

“Unfortunately, the bonnet was already hot. By the time he managed to open the bonnet a fire suddenly ignited from nowhere and the next thing we heard was a ‘BOOM’. The vehicle was gone”

Our correspondent reports that about four female students were on board at the time and they all managed to to escape unhurt.

Igbere TV learnt that by the time the university's Fire Service arrived the scene, the vehicle had burnt down completely.

It was alleged that the Fire Service vehicles lacked enough water to quench the fire.

By the time our news crew arrived the scene, the fire fighters had managed to put out the fire and the carcass of the burnt automobile was seen lying across the road.

Also, the driver of the cab was seen in uncontrollable tears. It was gathered that he is not the owner of the vehicle but operating it on hire purchase also known as ‘balance and carry.'

See photos obtained exclusively by Igbere TV below...

http://igberetvnews.com/785688/breaking-vehicle-burst-into-flame-in-front-of-uniben-hostel-photos/

Cc: Lalasticlala, Mynd44, OAM4J

Happy Birthday Boss. Live long & Prosper.
More money in your ‘aza’.
Many many happy returns.
Cheers!!!

DjCandyMusic:
Today is my birthday.. Anyone to wish??

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xxwg8w1pS4E

Some members-elect of the Edo State House of Assembly who took part in the midnight swearing-in ceremony orchestrated by the state government, have come out to denounce the process, as well as share stories of their forceful abduction to the public.

In the 4-minute-long video obtained exclusively by Igbere TV, the lawmakers-elect while lamenting their experiences in the hands of Governor Godwin Obaseki and his handlers, said they were threatened and forced to take part in the midnight ceremony on Monday.

They described in startling details how their phones were seized and how they were marched into a waiting bus to the Assembly Complex for the ceremony.

Hon. Nosayaba Okunbor, Hon Uyi Ekosueyi and Barrister Okaka, while recounting their ordeal said they were all marched into an arranged bus for the sham ceremony at the Assembly complex after refusing bribe offers from the governor.

They explained that this forceful abduction and threat to life was the reason a member-elect representing Igueben constituency was seen taking the oath in shorts, as opposed to a more dignified outfit.

"Immediately after the press conference we granted over the unconstitutional refusal of the Governor to issue a proclamation for the inauguration of the House, I was invited for a meeting at the Deputy Governor's house. To my surprise, we were held hostage and marched into a waiting bus having been offered money and refused to take it," Barrister Okaka said.

Two other members, Hon Uyi Ekhosuehi and Hon. Nosayaba recounted the same experience, expressing clearly that what took place was a sham and every House member involved participated under threat to life.

In one of the audio recordings obtained exclusively by Igbere TV, the Edo APC Chairman, Anselm Ojesua was heard boasting about the development and he taunted the members-elect saying “make dem go do another press conference tomorrow.”

http://igberetvnews.com/784995/edo-assembly-saga-kidnapped-members-elect-expose-obaseki-narrate-ordeal-video/

The Presidency on Wednesday lambasted ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo over his absence at the May 29 inauguration ceremony of President Muhammadu Buhari and subsequently, June 12 Democracy Day, Igbere TV reports.

This was in response to a statement credited to the ex-president saying that he was not invited or he did not receive an invitation to the events.

In a statement made available to Igbere TV, the presidency said the former president’s lie cannot be sustained, adding that he was invited for both events.

The statement signed by Garba Shehu, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, said: “He owes an answer to Nigerians on his absence from the 2019 Presidential inauguration and Democracy Day celebration.

“Since the claim was first made, elements in the polity that have deliberately and consistently been trying to lead the country toward polarization have cashed in on it, throwing all manner of rubbish at the Buhari Presidency.

“The fact remains that the Secretary to the Government, Boss Mustapha wrote on May 16th, 2019 to:

““His Excellency, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, GCFR, Former President, Federal Republic of Nigeria, Agbe L’Oba House, Quarry Road, Ibara, P.O.Box 2286, Abeokuta, Ogun State.”

“The invitation was sent to Chief Obasanjo’s known forwarding address, detailing out all the major events, and the invitation cards were delivered by a reputable courier company as confirmed.

“The receipt of the letter and invitation cards as delivered by the courier company was confirmed by Mr. Taiwo Ojo, the long standing Personal Secretary to the former President.

“If, in the circumstance, Chief Obasanjo did not see or receive the letter and invitation cards as published by Vanguard newspaper (Page 16, June 16, 2019) and several other news platforms, then the former President needs to find out what is happening with his own secretariat.

“The government office did its job diligently and should not be blemished for no reason.”

http://igberetvnews.com/784965/presidency-knocks-obasanjo-over-buharis-second-term-inauguration/

Cc: Lalasticlala, Mynd44, OAM4J

A Federal High Court sitting in Kaduna has ruled against Governor Nasir El-rufai over plans by the State Government to issue “preaching licences” to pastors of Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Igbere TV reports.

Igbere TV recalls that the Kaduna State House of Assembly had on Friday, June 7 passed the Religious Preaching Regulation Bill into law.

The State Government had argued that the bill was meant to regulate religious preaching in order to promote religious harmony and peaceful coexistence not to stifle religious freedom.

It provides for the establishment of an Interfaith Regulatory Council at the state level and committees at local government levels responsible for screening and issuing licence to preachers.

The councils will have two representatives each of Christian and Islamic bodies among other members.

The bill states that any person who plays religious cassette and uses a loudspeaker for religious outside a church or mosque commits an offence.

According to the bill, the person on conviction will be liable to imprisonment for a term of not less than two years or pay a fine.

The bill also states that any person who publicly insults or seeks to incite contempt against any religion, by making false statements in such a manner as likely lead to a breach of peace, shall be punished with imprisonment for a term of not less than five years or a fine of not less than N100,000 or both.

Delivering judgement on Wednesday, however, the Court held that “using the Religious Regulatory Bill is a gross violation of their (PFN) fundamental human rights, which guarantees freedom of association and freedom of religion. Thus, inconsistent with the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended).”

The Court, therefore, declared the bill “illegal.”

The Presiding Judge, Hon Justice D. Gwadah further added that “the actions of the Kaduna State House of Assembly in proceeding to pass the bill into law despite the pending court proceedings and the subsisting court injunction restraining the action is an affront to this honourable court.”

Igbere TV reports that the case which was declared today, was instituted by the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) Kaduna chapter since 2016 against Kaduna State Governor (Mallam Nasir El-Rufai), Kaduna State House of Assembly and the Attorney General of Kaduna State over the Kaduna State Religious Regulatory Bill.

http://igberetvnews.com/784806/breaking-court-rules-against-el-rufai-on-licensing-for-preachers/

Cc: Lalasticlala, Mynd44, OAM4J

A Catholic Priest, Rev. Fr. Isaac Agabi, who was kidnapped on Sunday by armed Fulani herdsmen in Edo State, has escaped his abductors, Igbere TV reports.

Igbere TV had reported that Agabi was kidnapped along Auchi-Igarra road at about 5.00 pm, while on his way back to the parish.

Agabi is the Rev. Fr. in charge of Holy Name Catholic Church, Ikpeshi, in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area of Edo State.

Igbere TV gathered that the Rev. Fr. escaped from his abductors in the early hours of Tuesday (today), barely 48 hours after he was kidnapped.

The Director of Communication of the Holy Name Catholic Church, Fr. Peter Egielewa, who confirmed the development, said no ransom was paid to secure the release of Rev. Fr. Agabi.

He said the Rev. Fr. escaped from his abductors when they slept off in the night.

http://igberetvnews.com/782374/breaking-catholic-priest-escapes-from-kidnappers-den-photo/

What we discussed with President Buhari in Abuja – APC governors


On the reason for the meeting


This morning, Mr President graciously granted audience to the Progressive Governors Forum. We came to congratulate him on the National Assembly elections and thank him for the confidence he has in the Progressive Governors Forum members who participated actively in all the processes that led to the emergence of Senator Ahmad Lawan as Senate President, Ovie Omo-Agege as Deputy Senate President, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila as Speaker, and Hon. Ahmed Wase as Deputy Speaker.

Furthermore, we used the opportunity to thank Mr President for all he has been doing and all the successes recorded in the areas which he campaigned upon, and by extension our party, which are security, economy, and accountability.

We are quite happy with his support for states where close to N2 trillion was given in form of restructuring of loans, refunds on federal roads, refund for Paris Club, which has helped encouraged economic activities in the states, payment of salaries, payment of pensions, payment of gratuities and overall investment by infrastructural spendings.

We are also appreciative of increased investment in agriculture, which has been because of conscious decision to support agriculture as a way out of economic challenges and provide economic growth.
We also congratulated Mr President that despite the drop in incomes, the value for money that he insists upon has begun to pay off in terms of more security across the country. Even though some challenges still remain, he is working hard on that with sincerity.

Last and not least, we offered to work with Mr President continuously to ensure that we increase economic performance, the security of our country and social cohesion.

We thank Mr President for celebrating the Democracy Day consistent with the promise he has made, which is a major element reflective of his democratic ideals in ensuring that an issue, which is so important to many Nigerians, has been finally addressed in a way that we are all happy..

Your party is in full control at all levels. What promises are you making to Nigerians?

Well, we as the Progressive Governors Forum will push so that that legislation and cooperation between states and federal government will intensify. We will be more active in investments in all areas that can provide employment and incomes rapidly will increase. We will collaborate more to ensure that security is enhanced, particularly when it involves state borders.

Did the issue of the ministerial list come up?

No. It is an executive decision.

Source: https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/335632-what-we-discussed-with-president-buhari-in-abuja-apc-governors.html%3famp_markup=1

[center][/center]

Former Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Attahiru Jega, has denied issuing a statement on the existence of a server during his time as head of the electoral body, Igbere TV reports.

Igbere TV recalls that Jega, in a circulated statement on social media, was quoted as saying that INEC server exists, and that election results were transmitted electronically during his time as chairman.

“INEC server exist and it is functional. Let’s call a spade a spade. I was once INEC chairman and results were transmitted electronically during my time,” the viral post read.

The statement drew comments from Nigerians who called for the resignation of the current chairman of INEC, Mahmood Yakubu, over claims that the commission had no server for the 2019 general elections.

Reacting, however, Prof. Jega denied making such statement.

On the INEC server controversy, he said that the commission under his watch did not, at any time, transmit results electronically.

“This is another lie mischievously attributed to me. I never said this. Besides, INEC during my time did not do electronic transmission of results. Under our current electoral laws, it is illegal to do so.

“I am at a loss as to why some reckless people go the extra mile to attribute things to me, which I have never said. I have never said this. It is a repugnant lie,” Jega told newsmen.

http://igberetvnews.com/781684/former-inec-chairman-jega-clears-air-on-inec-server-controversy/

Cc: Lalasticlala, Mynd44, OAM4J

There was drama on Monday as 9 out of 24 members-elect of the Edo State House of Assembly at about 10:22pm, ‘elected’ a new Speaker and Deputy Speaker for the 7th Assembly, Igbere TV reports.

Igbere TV reports that while Hon Frank Okiye from Esan North East was sworn-in as Speaker, Hon Yekini Idiaye from Akoko Edo was elected Deputy Speaker.

Governor Godwin Obaseki and his Deputy, Philip Shaibu reportedly whisked away the 9 members-elect, the Clerk of the House of Assembly, among other officials to stage a secret and partial inauguration amidst rumoured rift with his predecessor, Adams Oshiomhole.

The move, Igbere TV reliably gathered, was to shut out Oshiomhole’s loyalists from attending the inauguration and to forestall lost of loyalty in the Obaseki’s camp.

Igbere TV recalls that about 19 out of the 24 lawmakers-elect had on Monday afternoon, addressed a press conference where they raised the alarm over Governor Obaseki’s refusal to issue a proclamation letter for the inauguration of the House.

They equally alleged that the governor had threatened to sanction them if they should vote against his preferred candidate for the Speakership. The Edo APC Chairman, Anselm Ojezua confirmed the development, citing “party supremacy.” The 24 lawmakers-elect are all members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

It was alleged that the sum of N10 million was given to each of the lawmaker-elect who attended the swearing-in on Monday night.

Findings revealed that 4 out of the 19 members-elect who had earlier issued a press statement, later joined the House for the inauguration.

The new speaker, Okiye had adjourned Plenary till July 17.

Details soon...

http://igberetvnews.com/781258/drama-as-9-24-assembly-members-elect-new-speaker-deputy-at-night-photos/

Members-elect of the Edo State House of Assembly on Monday demanded the state governor, Godwin Obaseki, to immediately inaugurate them, Igbere TV reports.

Igbere TV reports that the members-elect, during a press conference held at the NUJ press centre in Benin city, said with the expiration of the 6th assembly on 7th June, the state governor ought to have issued a letter of proclamation for their inauguration to avoid the present vacuum and constitutional crisis.

Speaking on behalf of the members-elect, Barr. Washington Osa-Osifo representing Uhumwonde state constituency, said it was an aberration for the members-elect of same political party, APC, in the state not to be inaugurated up till date.

Igbere TV recalls that the last House of Assembly election produced 24/24 All Progressives Congress lawmakers-elect in the Edo Assembly.

Osifo said they must work in line with section 105 subsection 3 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).

According to him, “all other states of the federation have inaugurated their Houses of assembly, Governor Godwin Obaseki has deliberately refused to allow that of Edo state to function thus usurping the power of the legislators.

“The Governor no matter how powerful, cannot impose individuals either as speaker or deputy on the legislators. At best, he can only lobby for his preferred candidate as was recently witnessed at the national assembly”.

Chanting various struggle songs, the members-elect said they want well-meaning individuals like President Muhammadu Buhari, Oba of Benin, national leaders of the party and the leadership of the National Assembly to prevail on Governor Obaseki to immediately issue a letter of proclamation to enable the State House of Assembly to function and to avoid serious constitutional crisis.

Igbere TV reports that a total of 19 members-elect were present at the press conference.

See their signatures below...

http://igberetvnews.com/781233/edo-assembly-members-elect-blow-hot-report-obaseki-to-buhari-oba-over-delayed-inauguration/

The United States Embassy has denied placing a ban on student visa for Nigerians seeking to further their study in the US, Igbere TV reports.

There were media reports on Sunday suggesting that US President, Donald Trump had signed an executive order restricting visa-seeking Nigerian students from the country.

But the Embassy in a statement on its verified twitter handle, @USEmbassyAbuja on Monday, described the report as fake news.

The statement reads, “#FakeNews Alert! Be advised, reports of Student Visa ban for Nigerians is false.

“If you have seen such manufactured item on Facebook and Twitter or received it via WhatsApp, please communicate that it is false.”

http://igberetvnews.com/780642/just-in-us-embassy-speaks-on-banning-student-visa-for-nigerians/

Cc: Lalasticlala, Mynd44, OAM4J

The Supreme Court has reserved judgment on the Osun State 2018 Governorship election, Igbere TV reports.

The apex court will now pass its judgment, July 5.

Acting Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Tanko Muhammad, announced the new date when the Court resumed hearing on Monday.

Igbere TV reports that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its candidate, Senator Ademola Adeleke are challenging the victory of the All Progressives Congress candidate, Governor Gboyega Oyetola, as governor of Osun State.

They are asking the apex court to set aside the judgment of the Court of Appeal and restore the judgment of the Osun State Election Petitions Tribunal which declared Adeleke as the winner of the governorship election.

A seven-man panel of justices led by the acting CJN is expected to pass judgment on the matter on July 5.

http://igberetvnews.com/780463/breaking-supreme-court-reserves-judgment-on-osun-guber-suit/

Cc: Lalasticlala, Mynd44, OAM4J

The European Union (EU) Election Observation Mission (EOM) to Nigeria on Saturday night tweeted a summary of its report on the 2019 general election, Igbere TV reports.

This comes amidst controversies and distortions of what the EU said, by media agencies across the country.

Apart from highlighting flaws in the election, the EU recommended 30 points for ratification ahead of 2023 election.

See full report as obtained by Igbere TV...

The European Union Election Observation Mission (EU EOM) to Nigeria today released its final report on the 2019 general elections, which contains 30 recommendations to improve future electoral processes. The mission concluded that the systemic fallings seen in the elections, and the relatively low levels of voter participation, show the need for fundamental electoral reform.

“Such reform needs political leadership that is dedicated to the rights of Nigerian citizens, and an inclusive process of national dialogue involving state institutions, parties, civil society and the media”, said EU Chief Observer, Maria Arena, at a press conference in Abuja. “This needs to be urgently undertaken to allow time for debate, legislative changes and implementation well advance of the next elections”, she added.

Overall, the EU EOM concluded the elections were marked by severe operational and transparency shortcomings, electoral security problems and low turnout. Positively, however, the elections were competitive, parties were able to campaign and civil society enhanced accountability. Leading parties, the EU EOM said, were at fault in not reining in acts of violence and intimidation by their supporters and abuse of incumbency at federal and state levels. The EU EOM, report stated that, except for federal radio, state media primarily served the interests of the president or the governor at state level. Journalists were subject to harassment, and scrutiny of the electoral process was at times compromised with some independent observers being obstructed in their work, including by security agencies.

The EU EOM noted that INEC worked in a difficult environment and made some improvements, such as simplifying voting procedures. However, considerable weakness remained. Operational deficiencies led to the postponement of the elections, there were insufficient checks and transparency in the results process, as well as a general lack of public communication and information.

The elections became increasingly marred by violence and intimidation, with the role of the security agencies becoming more contentious as the process progressed. The EU EOM reported that this damaged the integrity of the electoral process and may deter future participation. During collation of the federal results, EU observers directly witnessed or received reports of intimidation of INEC officials in 20 states.

While the legal framework broadly provides for democratic elections and some improvements were made to the Constitution, various legal shortcomings remained, including in relation to the use of smart card readers. The EU EOM also noted the suspension of the Chief Justice by the President a few weeks before the elections, which it said was seen to lack due process and reportedly undermined judicial independence.

Other issues highlighted in the report include: conflicting and late rulings on electoral disputes that undermined opportunity for remedy and created uncertainty; the dysfunctional regulation of political finance; very few electoral offences resulting in arrest or prosecution; problems with the collection of permanent voter cards; and the further fall in the number of women elected.

Positively, however, the report noted that parties and candidates were able to campaign, with freedoms of assembly, expression and movement largely respected. The EU EOM also emphasised the effective role played by civil society organisations in promoting election reform and positively contributing to the accountability of the process.

The report makes 30 recommendations for consideration, but prioritises the following seven:

1. Strengthen INEC procedures for the collation of results to improve integrity and confidence in electoral outcomes;

2. Establish requirements in law for full result transparency, with data easily accessible to the public;

3. Considerably strengthen INEC’s organisational and operational capacity, as well as its internal communication;

4. The inter-agency body responsible for electoral security to work more transparently and inclusively, with regular consultations with political parties and civil society;

5. Introduce a legal requirement for political parties to have a minimum representation of women among candidates;

6. Electoral tribunals to also cover pre-election cases in order to improve access to remedy and to avoid petitions being taken to different courts at the same time;

7. Reform the licensing system for the broadcast media to provide for media pluralism and diversity in all of Nigeria's states.

Following an invitation from INEC, the EU EOM was present in Nigeria between 5 January and 7 April 2019. It observed the Presidential and National Assembly elections on 23 February (see statement), the Governorship and State House of Assembly elections on 9 March (see statement), as well as supplementary governorship elections on 23 March (see statement). The mission's 40 long-term observers went to all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. The mission's mandate was to observe all aspect of electoral process and assess the extent to which the elections complied with Nigeria's international and regional commitments for elections, as well as with national legislation. The EU EOM was independent of EU institutions, the Delegation of the European Union to Nigeria and EU member states.

Download the 88-page full report at: http://igberetvnews.com/779116/european-union-full-report-on-2019-general-election/

Cc: Lalasticlala, Mynd44, OAM4J

Unknown gunmen on Saturday, June 15 attacked a government-owned ambulance on the ever-busy Benin-Ore expressway, Igbere TV reports.

Igbere TV learnt that the ambulance was conveying some medical materials meant for treatment of Lassa fever when gunmen believed to be Fulani herdsmen attacked it.

According to reports, a white Toyota Hiace bus accompanying the ambulance and conveying some medical personnel, was also not spared.

It was alleged that two occupants of the bus, who are officials of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), were kidnapped in the process. We are, however, yet to confirm this as at press time.

Edo State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Chidi Nwabuzor, who confirmed the report, said details of the incident are still sketchy.

He said he only got to read it on the internet, adding that no formal complaint has reached the police command.

“I will get back to your team when I have the details,” Nwabuzor said. He was, however, yet to do so as at the time of filing this report.

His Ondo State counterpart, DSP Femi Joseph, on his part, said the incident did not happen in the state.

http://igberetvnews.com/778477/oh-no-unknown-gunmen-attack-govt-ambulance-kidnap-two/

Cc: Lalasticlala, Mynd44, OAM4J

The Presidency has reacted to the report and submission of the European Union (EU) on Nigeria’s 2019 general election, Igbere TV reports.

Igbere TV had reported that the EU election observers today submitted its report to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the Federal Government, where it noted significant improvements from previous elections.

In a statement made available to Igbere TV and issued by Garba Shehu, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity, he said the Federal Government would fully analyze and act on the recommendations contained in the report.

Full Statement,

The Presidency has welcomed the report of the European Union (EU) on the 2019 general elections in Nigeria, promising to analyse it fully and act on the recommendations.

The Presidency notes that the EU observers had been invited to the country by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and welcomed by the government of President Muhammadu Buhari.

This was a clear indication of the administration's good intentions, commitment to a pure democratic process, and desire to improve for the next elections.

The EU noted in their report that there were marked improvements from previous elections, although stating that more work needed to be done.

The administration of President Buhari will work with all Nigerian citizens, state institutions, parties, civil society, the media and other experts to make sure that the improvements recommended by the EU are implemented, and that these areas of concern are addressed.

It is noteworthy that INEC is in receipt of a number of recommendations that form a part of the EU report.

The Presidency assures that the Commission is in safe hands and happy that they are currently engaged in root and branch reviews of the 2019 general elections and will input lessons learned into its recommendations for electoral and constitutional reforms.

We believe that the commission conducted a good election and will continue to improve on its processes and procedures.

While it is regretted that the elections in a few parts of the country witnessed some violence, among other shortcomings highlighted by the EU, we note however that none of these hitches affected the overall outcome of the elections.

Thankfully, EU did not question the results of the presidential election.

This is further proof that the polls reflected the overall will of Nigerians, and that the world is solidly behind the election of President Buhari for a second term.

http://igberetvnews.com/778363/breaking-presidency-reacts-to-eus-submissions-on-2019-polls/

The Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohaneze Ndigbo, has reacted to the alleged threat by Miyetti Allah to invade the Southeast region, Igbere TV reports.

Ohaneze called on the people of the Southeast to reactivate their local defence outfits in readiness against the Fulani herdsmen.

The group, in a communique issued to Igbere TV at the end of its emergency meeting on Thursday, said, “Ohanaeze Ndigbo has noted the assertion and denial of Miyetti Allah that the South East will soon boil. We are waiting for them.”

The statement which was signed by the President General, Chief Nnia Nwodo, directed Ndigbo to be vigilant and await “our next directives after consultation with our political and religious leaders, legislators, traditional rulers, town unions and affiliate organizations.”

The group frowned at the “ongoing negotiations between the Federal Government and Miyetti Allah to give them a grant of N100 billion and queried: “Why on earth these gun trotting militants should be protected financially and insulated from criminal prosecution whilst IPOB, an armless group of Igbos is proscribed and categorized as dangerous to national security, bugs our imagination.”

Ohanaeze lamented that in the South East and South West, huge ransoms are extorted daily from helpless citizens by kidnappers and many captives killed by the bandits.

“In the South East and South West of Nigeria, kidnapping of several indigenes including priests, reveal a huge network of armed herdsmen camped in various bushes and farms. Local reports in some areas point to helicopters sighted in these bushes dropping arms and ammunition in some of these occupied areas.”

While regretting with great disappointment the collapse of national security and “the continuous failure of the Federal Government in confronting the situation,” it noted that there have been unabated increased state of insecurity such as killings, kidnapping and various types of banditry in the country.

“Several local and international mining companies have without license occupied parts of Northern Nigeria and engaged in continuous and inhibited illegal mining of Nigeria’s mineral resources, protected by local and foreign militia and carting away and selling valuable mineral resources whose proceeds are undeclared in the national treasury, whereas oil deposits in the South are exploited and used for the benefit of the entire nation.

”A Muslim militant group with all the features and characteristics of ISIS is invading parts of Northern Nigeria, capturing district heads, stealing and rampaging in various communities and forcing Nigerians in these areas to flee from their homes, in some cases, away to neighbouring countries.

“That in Kaduna and other parts of the Middle Belt, Miyetti Allah and their militant herdsmen have continued to kill, maim and destabilize Christian areas of these parts of the country with very little containment of these attackers by our national security forces.

”What is most is that very few arrests, seizures of arms or prosecution have been made in all these instances by our national security forces. The impression is created that their activities have the encouragement, sanction or acquiescence of our national security forces. In the President’s home state Katsina, the District Head of Daura is now under captivity for 32 days.”

The group emphasised that as long as the persisting situation subsists, the only solution to it is for the country to be restructured.

It, therefore, directed its youth wing, women wing and affiliate organizations to desist from issuing any statement on the state of the nation as long as the tense security situation of the country lasts.

http://igberetvnews.com/752621/fulani-herdsmen-be-ready-for-self-defence-ohanaeze-tells-ndigbo/

Cc: Lalasticlala, Mynd44, OAM4J

Despite the withdrawal of the draconian guidelines for the accreditation of journalists, the National Assembly Management has again moved to bar over 150 accredited journalists from covering the inauguration of the 9th national assembly on Tuesday, June 11.

The decision which is coming barely three weeks after the management of the national assembly suspended the move to issue fresh guidelines to the journalists covering the parliament.

The new move was discovered on Thursday following the instruction by the management that only 10 reporters would be allowed to cover the inauguration as far as print media is concerned, just as few of television and radio reporters were selected for the event.

Out of over 15 photojournalists covering the two chambers, only one was accredited to cover the event, making the list of a very few names selected out of the 160 registered journalists who are members of the House and Senate Press Corps.

List of journalists shortlisted to cover 9th Assembly inauguration
Since 1999 accredited journalists covering the legislature have been allowed to occupy the press gallery to cover the proceedings while other reporters monitored the proceedings via live telecast from the screen mounted at the press centre.

But the provisions were not allowed with this restriction as those that were not included in the list will not be allowed to have access to the National Assembly.

The implication of the latest arrangement is that some media houses would be locked out of the complex until the entire proceedings are concluded on Tuesday.

Source: http://saharareporters.com/2019/06/06/breaking-again-nass-management-bars-journalists-covering-inauguration-new-lawmakers

Governor Emeka Ihedioha of Imo State, has inaugurated an eight-man committee to probe the financial dealings of Rochas Okorocha, immediate past governor of the state, Igbere TV reports.

This comes barely 9 days after his inauguration on May 29.

Igbere TV had reported Ihedioha's threat to probe all financial dealings and transactions carried out by the state government in the last eight years under Okorocha.

The ‘Financial Advisory Committee’ (FAC), as named by the governor, was tasked with the major responsibility of ascertaining and documenting the locations and balances on all bank accounts operated by Imo State government, its ministries, departments, and agencies as at May 29, 2019.

“To review such disbursements/applications of State resources to ascertain the propriety of charges levied on accounts, interest payment on loans and deposits where applicable, authorization, etc.

“Reviewing the propriety of applications/disbursements of State resources between 2011 -2019.

“To review the operations of the Imo State Board of Internal Revenue (BIR) with a view to recommending appropriate strategies to reposition the agency for better performance and sustained growth and to conduct governance/financial reviews of key agencies of government with a view to; documenting all revenues generated or subventions/allocations between 2011 -2019.”

http://igberetvnews.com/753216/breaking-gov-ihedioha-sets-up-8-man-committee-to-probe-okorocha/

The Youth Wing of the Kwara South Forum has kicked against ministerial re-appointment of the immediate past Minister for Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed.

The group in a statement in Ilorin on Thursday challenged Mohammed to name his achievements for the area since his four years in the office.


Reports have it that the statement was signed by representatives of the six local government councils that made up the senatorial district.

They are Kayode Adesina from Oyun local government area; Deji Aina, Ekiti; Abdulrahman Oyinloye, Ifelodun; Rasheed Shogo, Offa; Sunday Adekeye, Isin and AbdulRahim Lawal, Oke-Ero.

The group noted that the call became necessary due to lack of responsibility to the people of the State he represented in the Federal Executive Council in the first tenure of President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration.

Recall that the statement was released less than a month after a similar one by the Kwara South Elders Forum.

They, however, insisted that the former minister should come out boldly and mention his achievements in the state.

They explained that they were in support of the position of Kwara South Elders Forum, saying that the forum consisted of eminent persons from the district.

According to the group “for clarity sake, Kwara South elders forum precedes APC as it had been in existence over the years.

“It is on record that all the governorship candidates including His Excellency, Alhaji Abdulrahman AbdulRazaq, Senatorial and House Of Representative candidates from Kwara South all consulted the forum for endorsement and support in the last election.

“That shows the recognition we all have for the forum,” the group said.

They claimed that whoever that was working for the re-appointment of the ex-minister is promoting anti-people interest.

“They should let us unite and promote someone who will care about the welfare, interest and aspiration of Kwarans as a minister and not a greedy, self-centred person who is not interested in the development and progress of our dear state,” the group stated.

https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.vanguardngr.com/2019/06/lai-mohammeds-constituents-kick-against-his-ministerial-re-appointment/%3famp

The Akwa-Ibom State Government, on Friday said the Ibom Air will begin full commercial operations today, June 7, Igbere TV can report.

Mr. Ekerete Udoh, the Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to Governor Udom Emmanuel, made this known in a statement issued to Igbere TV on Friday morning.

Udoh said that the airline, having fulfilled all the regulatory conditions and requirements, was certified fit to commence commercial operations, leading to the maiden flight billed for June 7.

“It will maintain regular daily flights to both Lagos (MMA2) and Abuja respectively.

“The aircraft in its fleet (Bombardier CRJ 900) have the distinction of being relatively new, all three, under 10 years old,” Udoh said.

“The governor who seems determined to break conventional wisdom concerning things long thought to be impossible to achieve,” the statement read in part.

Igbere TV recalls that the Ibom Air was launched on February 20th with three aircraft by the outgoing Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki.

Ibom Air is the first commercial airline to be owned and operated by a state government in Nigeria and Africa, it's also one of the biggest projects of the Emmanuel's administration in his first term.

http://igberetvnews.com/752991/breaking-ibom-air-to-begin-commercial-operations-today/

Cc: Lalasticlala, Mynd44, OAM4J