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 Politics › Cabals Behind Planned Nationwide Protest - Sunday Asefon by Fareke(op): 4:17am On Aug 01, 2024 |
The Presidency has said cabals and enemies of Nigeria opposed to President Bola Tinubu’s innovative policies and youth-inclusive government are behind tomorrow’s proposed protest.https://thenationonlineng.net/cabals-behind-planned-nationwide-protest-says-presidency/amp/ 4 Likes 2 Shares
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| Politics › Anti-govt Protest: LP Denies Involvement As Presidency Fingers Obi, Alleges Trea by Fareke(op): 6:40am On Jul 21, 2024 |
Stephen Angbulu and Adebayo Folorunsho-Francis The Labour Party has refuted claims made by the Presidency that its presidential flag bearer, Peter Obi, and his supporters are behind the planned nationwide anti-government protest scheduled to hold on August 1. The Presidency described calls for the nationwide protests under the hashtags #TinubuMustGo and #Revolution2024 as treasonable. In a lengthy tweet published on his X account on Saturday, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, accused the presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 elections, Peter Obi, and his supporters of spreading the hashtags, alleging that “They are not democrats but anarchists”. “If they understand the meaning of their hashtags, they will realise they are clarion calls for treason. Wanting to end an elected government is high treason. Wanting revolution is a call for a coup d’etat, which is also high treason,” said the Presidential aide. Onanuga, however, floated a Save-Nigeria-Rally from August 1-15, 2024, in response to plans for nationwide protests from August 1-10 against the rising cost of living and economic hardship. He claimed that those organising the protests were also behind the #EndSARS protests of October 2020, which later turned violent. "The protest planners are also the same people who were instigated by IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu, to launch the destructive EndSARS protest in Nigeria in October 2020. EndSARS began as a genuine protest by youths against the Police Special Anti-Robbery Squad, notorious for its high-handedness. "IPOB members planning to extricate the South East region from Nigeria infiltrated the protest and hijacked it for their own agenda. Lagos still bears the scar of the malicious destruction by IPOB elements to this day. Two years after EndSARS, the IPOB, and the gullible innocents joined the Labour Party in 2022 to support Peter Obi, a sympathiser of their cause. They are the people spreading the hashtags #EndBadGovernance, #TinubuMustGo, and #Revolution2024. They are not democrats but anarchists,” he said. Onanuga accused the protest organisers of lacking the patience to wait for another election in 2027, but instead wanting to “destabilise Nigeria by staging a civilian coup against President Bola Tinubu.” In a name-and-shame campaign, the former Chief of the News Agency of Nigeria drew attention to a protest organiser who operates an anonymous X account, whom he said had been enlisting more persons to join the exercise. He also named one Babatunde Gbadamosi, whom he recommended that the DSS arrest for urging people “to identify APC members, sponsors, supporters, enablers, thugs, promoters, and appointees.” Onanuga continued, “There is ‘General Oluchi,’ a woman who goes by the screen name ‘A Field Marshall of the Han Dynasty.’ She has been sending out letters of mobilisation. She even pinned a ‘Week 6’ letter urging Nigerians to wake up and take control of their country, using the language of IPOB, Peter Obi, and his supporters. "Another member of the malcontents is Brother Bernard, also known as Mikael C. Bernard. He is not based in Nigeria, because he was once busted over Binance and fraudulent crypto businesses in Nigeria. Bernard was the man who once wrote that the naira should go down to zero.” Onanuga said there was no country in the world where people were not going through some economic challenges and where the cost of living was not a major issue. He argued that no country was immune from economic turbulence at the moment, noting that civilised and democratic people wait for another election to make leadership changes. He said, “They don’t trigger mayhem in their countries by staging protests, the end of which nobody can predict.” He urged Nigerians to “consider the government’s attitude and concern about the cost of living crisis when deciding whether to join the protests by the Labour Party and IPOB supporters.” "The Tinubu government has not been found wanting in this regard. The minimum wage has been increased by more than 100 per cent. Loans are being disbursed to students in tertiary schools. A credit corporation has been launched to promote consumption credit. “Palliatives, including the latest distribution of 740 trucks of rice to the 36 states and Abuja, are being rolled out. Businesses, such as pharmaceuticals, are being assisted. The Federal and state governments are investing heavily in agriculture to produce more food. "The economy is improving, inflation is slowing, the national debt has been reduced in dollar terms, and the FIRS has increased revenue generation to record levels. Investors are coming back to our country. Our stock market is the best in the world, with a 33 per cent return on investment. President Tinubu has a four-year mandate to run his agenda. Those calling for protest should wait till 2027 to either re-elect him or elect their Messiah, Mr Peter Obi,” the statement concluded. Obi not behind planned protest – LP The leadership of the Labour Party has, however, refuted the claims of the Presidency and warned against dragging Obi into the rising tension of the planned nationwide protest. The National Publicity Secretary of the LP, Obiora Ifoh, in a statement titled ‘Obi, Labour Party not involved in ‘EndBadGovernance’ protest,’ reiterated that it was wrong of Onanuga to link the LP and its national leader to the proposed ‘EndBadGovernance’ protest. He said, “We say there is no truth in the tweet. It is just the figment of the author’s imagination. Labour Party is known for being a very peaceful party, and it has on several occasions asked its followers to follow peace at all times. We are not known as a lawless group, as was evident in the aftermath of the last general election. It is therefore delusional for anyone to link our supporters to the planned protest. Labour Party, Peter Obi, and our supporters are not planning any protests. "It is therefore puerile for the government or anyone, for that matter, to begin to look for whom to blame for the bad governance witnessed in Nigeria today. Nigeria can still get it right if the right policies are initiated. We also advise that some aides of the Presidency must be cautioned to avoid incendiary pronouncements capable of combusting the nation, all in the name of playing politics.” Don’t make Obi your scape goat- Aide Also reacting, Obi’s campaign spokesman, Yunusa Tanko, dismissed Onanuga’s claim. Tanko said it would be preposterous of the Presidency to believe that Nigerians cannot carry out a protest against bad governance unless provoked by the opposition. He said, “With all due respect, is it Peter Obi who goes to the market to buy a bag of rice and beans? Why are people not being fair to this man? This thing concerns every Nigerian. We are talking about hardship that is meted out to Nigerians by this government. "Even they themselves are feeling the pain, because distant family members will continue to come to them for money due to the hardship. Is it Obi visiting their families to tell them about the rising cost of foodstuffs, including why a bag of rice suddenly rose to N80,000? If they are looking for a dog to give a bad name to hang, it is certainly not Obi. "They should hold themselves responsible for the situation they put Nigerians in. It has nothing to do with Peter Obi. It is a reaction of the people, by the people, and for the people, which is allowed in a democracy. It is their inalienable right as Nigerians. This allegation is not true, and it is unfair. The APC government should look inward and find who to blame among themselves.” APC warns against violent protest Meanwhile, the ruling All Progressives Congress has warned that deliberately organising a demonstration to push for a change of government is a treasonable act. The National Publicity Director of APC, Bala Ibrahim, stated this in an interview with our correspondent. He said, “Opposition is a legitimate action that is permitted by the Constitution. Protest is also a legitimate instrument of expressing opinion to the government in power. But there is a proviso. That protest must be peaceful, orderly, and conducted in a way and manner that will not put the country in distress and make it ungovernable. Anything that is done to destroy order in a country is akin to treason, a protest against the Constitution, and is also equivalent to a call for the forceful change of government, which no responsible government will allow. “So, those who are calling for protest must be conscious of this constitutional provision, consider the outcome of the protest, and do it in a way and manner that will not become a tool for bringing anarchy to the country.” https://punchng.com/anti-govt-protest-lp-denies-involvement-as-presidency-fingers-obi-alleges-treason/
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| Politics › ‘I’ll Approve ₦250,000 Minimum Wage If Fuel Price Is Increased’ – Tinubu by Fareke(op): 6:16am On Jul 21, 2024 |
President Bola Tinubu gave the organized labour a condition to accept their N250,000 minimum wage demand.https://dailypost.ng/2024/07/19/ill-approve-n250000-minimum-wage-if-fuel-price-is-increased-tinubu-to-labour/ 13 Likes 6 Shares
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| Christianity Etc › My Christian Mother, Siblings Happy When I Converted To Islam — 19-year-old Barb by Fareke(op): 9:59pm On Jul 14, 2024 |
By Victoria Edeme A 19-year-old barber, Aliyu Aso Oji, formerly Simon Aso Oji, speaks to VICTORIA EDEME about his conversion from Christianity to Islam Can you tell us a little about your background and upbringing? My name is Aliyu Aso Oji, formerly known as Simon Aso Oji. I’m from Keana in Keana Local Government Area of Nasarawa State. I am 19 years old and will turn 20 later this year. I stopped my education at Junior Secondary School a few years ago, but I plan to write my West African Senior School Certificate Examination and National Examination Council exams soon. I am a barber. My father is deceased, and I live with my mother and three siblings. I am the third born. Are you from a Christian family? I’m from a Christian family. My mum is a Christian. My eldest brother, Mohammed, is a Muslim. The second son, Zechariah, is a Christian. I was formerly known as Simon before I was renamed Aliyu after embracing Islam. My younger sister, Lovina, is a Christian. So, only my eldest brother and I are Muslims in the family. Can you share your experience of being a Christian before you converted to Islam? I attended a Roman Catholic Church in Keana, Nasarawa State, where I was in the choir. Did you miss being in the choir after your conversion? I miss it, but now Islam is on my mind. Since I joined Islam, it has been my focus. What initially sparked your interest in exploring Islam and considering conversion? I was drawn to the religion because of the lifestyle of the Muslims around me. I feel joy whenever I see them do what they do. My heart was always with them when I saw them, so I joined them. Nobody persuaded or forced me to join Islam. It was my choice and decision to join the religion. What particular Muslim activity drew you to them? I love the way they wash their legs and hands with water before going to pray in the mosque. I also love that they pray daily and give their attention to God. How did your family react when you told them about your decision to convert? Before I embraced Islam, I spoke to my mother and siblings and told them about my intention to convert to Islam. They asked if I was being forced or if it was a decision I made willingly. I told them that it was my choice. My mother and older siblings told me to go ahead with my decision. Even my younger sister said she was happy for me and congratulated me. She was not angry with me. I converted to Islam on 5 July 2024. How do you feel about practicing Islam since you converted? I feel so much joy. I’ve never felt such a way before. I don’t feel bad at all. I’m happy. My mother is still congratulating me, despite being a Christian. How did your friends react to your conversion to Islam? My friends organised a football match because I became a Muslim. They were so happy with me and showed me love. Some even followed me to my house to celebrate and gist with me. Even at my shop, my friends come to stay with me. Are your friends also Muslims? Yes, my friends are Muslims. How about the friends that you had in church? Are they also happy about your conversion? They are also happy with me. They keep calling me ‘Mallam Aliyu’ and I answer them. I visit them, we greet each other, and we shake hands. They are not angry with me. Are members of your community predominantly Muslims? Yes, there are more Muslims in my community than Christians. What were some of the challenges you faced during your conversion process? No, I didn’t face any challenges or problems. Did you have any mentors or community support that helped you through the transition? I have a friend who teaches me how to read the Qur’an. There’s another man, also called Aliyu, who comes to my shop and takes me to the mosque for prayers on his motorcycle. These people support me. They have helped me learn more about Islam. Do you have previous knowledge of the Arabic language? I don’t have previous knowledge of the language. How do you understand the words of the Qu’ran without prior knowledge of Arabic? I don’t have previous knowledge of the language. How do you understand the words of the Qu’ran without prior knowledge of Arabic? My friend is teaching me the language now and I understand. It’s not hard to learn and I’ve started grasping it. What are some of the biggest differences between practicing Christianity and Islam? I’m a recent convert to Islam, having been a Christian earlier, so I can’t say much about it yet as I’m just starting on my journey as a Muslim. One difference I’ve noticed is the washing of hands, legs, face, and head with water before prayer. In Christianity, this isn’t practiced. Christians typically enter the church without performing such ablutions, listen to preaching, and engage in other activities. That’s the main difference I’ve observed so far. Why do you prefer Muslim activities to that of Christians? When I was a Christian, I always saw Muslims and liked them. I felt joyful whenever I observed what they did. That’s why I made up my mind to convert to Islam. What are the changes you’ve seen in your day-to-day life since your conversion? Honestly, everything has been normal, except that I now go to the mosque every day. Since I became a Muslim, I’ve never missed salat (prayer) time on any day. I pray every day, going to the mosque five times daily. Does stepping away from your shop to attend mosque prayers affect your business? No, it doesn’t affect my business. How do you maintain and strengthen your faith in your new religion? I pray with fellow Muslims, asking God to help me, guide my family, and keep my enemies away from me. What aspect of Islam do you find most fulfilling or inspiring? What I like most about Muslim activities is the reading of the Qur’an. That’s because I enjoy learning more about the Qur’an, and it’s interesting. I also understand it because my friend teaches and translates it for me. How do you see your future in terms of your faith journey and personal development? I’m a new convert to Islam and I don’t know what the future holds. Everything is in God’s hands. It will be as God wants it to be. What message or advice would you give to someone considering converting to Islam? I’m still learning about the Islamic faith at the moment, especially about the Qur’an. So I can’t answer that question right now. https://punchng.com/my-christian-mother-siblings-happy-when-i-converted-to-islam-19-year-old-barber/
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| Politics › N6,000 CMRIS Certificate: You Have No Right To Question Us – Police To MBA by Fareke(op): 9:32pm On Jul 14, 2024 |
By John Gabriel The Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, on Sunday, said the police have the right and power to initiate any approach to curb crimes and criminality in Nigeria, as is applicable in other climes. DAILY POST recalls that the NBA Section on Public Interest had earlier issued a seven-day ultimatum to Egbetokun to stop the directive requiring vehicle owners to register and obtain a CMRIS certificate for a fee of not less than N6,000. NBA-SPIDEL questioned the legal basis for the Nigeria Police Force’s issuance of the CMRIS Certificates, stating that no law had granted the police the authority to issue such licences or certificates to vehicle owners following vehicle registration at the appropriate offices. It made the call in a letter addressed to the Inspector General of Police, and co-signed by NBA-SPIDEL Chairman, John Aikpokpo-Martins; and Secretary, Funmi Adeogun. But while reacting in a statement on Sunday, Adejobi faulted the report saying no agency can take the police up on the initiative, adding that the police have been issuing CMR for decades, so it’s not a new strategy or document. “This is unfounded, fake, and misleading. The NBA as a body will react to this. Stop spreading fake news. Who are those who made the statement or declaration, and in what capacity? "I challenge you to share the press statement with me, then we can talk. “Do your investigation on this. The police have the right and powers to initiate any approach to curb crimes and criminality in Nigeria, as it’s applicable in other climes.” It said According to the statement, no agency can take the police up on this initiative, adding that they will rather key into it, harmonise the system for the good of the country, and its citizenry. https://dailypost.ng/2024/07/14/n6000-cmris-certificate-you-have-no-right-to-question-us-police-to-mba/
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| Politics › NBA Gives IG Seven Days To Stop CMRIS Certificate Issuance by Fareke(op): 6:58am On Jul 14, 2024 |
Solomon Odeniyi and Daniel Oyetote The Nigeria Bar Association Section on Public Interest has issued a seven-day ultimatum to the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to stop the directive requiring vehicle owners to register and obtain a Central Motor Information System Certificate for a fee of not less than N6,000. NBA-SPIDEL questioned the legal basis for the Nigeria Police Force’s issuance of the CMRIS Certificates, stating that no law had granted the police the authority to issue such licences or certificates to vehicle owners following vehicle registration at the appropriate offices. It demanded an immediate halt to the issuance and enforcement of the CMRIS Certificates, urging the Inspector General of Police to issue a directive stopping the practice nationwide. The association also called for the shutdown of the registration website and physical registration centres, with refunds to be made to those who had already paid. It made the call in a letter addressed to the Inspector General of Police, and co-signed by NBA-SPIDEL Chairman, John Aikpokpo-Martins; and Secretary, Funmi Adeogun. It stated, “Any such certificate being issued by the Nigeria Police Force without legal backing is outright illegal, null, and void, and therefore of no consequence.” It emphasised that the police’s duty to protect citizens and enforce the law does not extend to collecting money or issuing certificates to vehicle owners. They condemned the exploitation of Nigerians’ ignorance, resulting in extortion during road searches. The letter warned, “Failure, neglect, or refusal to comply with this lawful demand within seven days of receipt of this letter will compel NBA-SPIDEL to seek appropriate sanctions in court against your esteemed office and the Nigeria Police Force.” Police to begin enforcement Meanwhile, the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered the enforcement of the digitalised Central Motor Registry by July 29, 2024. This, according to him, is to modernise and digitise the motor vehicle registration system, bolstering the nation’s safety and security framework. The e-CMR is an advanced, real-time online repository of motor vehicle data, designed to support police investigations, and operational activities, and combat vehicle-related crimes, including terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and armed robbery. The transition to a digitalised system, according to the police, will streamline the documentation and verification processes for vehicle ownership and related transactions. In a statement on Saturday, Force spokesperson, Muyiwa Adejobi, said that following the IGP’s directives, the e-CMR system will make services like change of ownership, license number, engine, and chassis/body seamless, ensuring vehicle genuineness, aiding in tracking and recovery of stolen vehicles, and preventing the sale of stolen vehicles to innocent buyers. The statement read in part, “As part of the efforts of the IG to enhance the security of lives and property, the Nigeria Police Force is set to commence the enforcement of the digitalized Central Motor Registry (e-CMR) within the next 14 days, specifically on the July 29, 2024, to rejuvenate and digitalize the motor vehicle registration system, significantly bolstering our nation’s safety and security framework. "Following the directives of the IGP, services such as change of ownership, change of license number, change of engine, and change of chassis/body would become seamless as the e-CMR system would ensure the validation of vehicle genuineness and ownership, enhancing the ability to track and recover stolen vehicles effectively, and preventing the purchase of stolen vehicles by innocent buyers.”
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| Politics › Nigeria Lacks People Who Speak Truth To Power – Peter Obi by Fareke(op): 7:43pm On Jul 13, 2024 |
By Steve Oko The 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Mr Peter Obi, has regretted the dearth of courageous people who can speak truth to power. Obi who spoke Saturday, during the 10th anniversary of Alaigbo Development Foundation in Umuahia, Abia State, regretted that the country had aboundance of praise singers who tell leaders what they what to hear. The former Anambra State Governor who recalled how he judiciously managed public funds while in office, also charged public leaders to use public funds for the people. He further charged them to make people-centred policies, and pursue programmes that promote public peace. Obi blamed the woes of Nigeria on avarice and insatiable quest for wealth among public office holders. He, therefore, challenged Nigerians to speak truth to power and stop hero worshipping. Obi said: “What we lack in Nigeria is people who can tell you you are wrong when you are. Leaders are bound to listen to the people because the people put them in the office. ” Leaders must use public money for public purpose”, Obi thundered. Continuing, he said:”When I was in public office, I used public money for public purpose. I made sure I used the peoples money for them. " I did not spend any Kobo for personal gain. I didn’t take it owing pensions, gratuities. I did not owe any contractor. Now in private life I can do whatever I like with my money.” The former Anambra State Governor who said he left office without owing workers including pensioners and contractors, disclosed that he also left behind $150m for the state. Obi solicited continued prayers for leaders so they would serve the people with the fear of God. The former Anambra Governor who advocated role for traditional institution, advised Government to partner socio-cultural organizations for the development of society. . As ADF inaugurates new leadership in Abia By Steve Oko UMUAHIA – The 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Mr Peter Obi, has regretted the dearth of courageous people who can speak truth to power. How my Husband died during our fight over another woman he impregnated - Beatrice, ex-convict0.00 / 0.00 Obi who spoke Saturday, during the 10th anniversary of Alaigbo Development Foundation in Umuahia, Abia State, regretted that the country had aboundance of praise singers who tell leaders what they what to hear. The former Anambra State Governor who recalled how he judiciously managed public funds while in office, also charged public leaders to use public funds for the people. He further charged them to make people-centred policies, and pursue programmes that promote public peace. Obi blamed the woes of Nigeria on avarice and insatiable quest for wealth among public office holders. He, therefore, challenged Nigerians to speak truth to power and stop hero worshipping. Obi said: “What we lack in Nigeria is people who can tell you you are wrong when you are. Leaders are bound to listen to the people because the people put them in the office. ” Leaders must use public money for public purpose”, Obi thundered. Continuing, he said:”When I was in public office, I used public money for public purpose. I made sure I used the peoples money for them. Related News Peter Obi knocked over Tinubu's proposed new presidential jet Only Obi can salvage Nigeria's battered economy - Labour Party Peter Obi salutes Starmer, UK LP for landslide victory ” I did not spend any Kobo for personal gain. I didn’t take it owing pensions, gratuities. I did not owe any contractor. Now in private life I can do whatever I like with my money.” The former Anambra State Governor who said he left office without owing workers including pensioners and contractors, disclosed that he also left behind $150m for the state. Obi solicited continued prayers for leaders so they would serve the people with the fear of God. The former Anambra Governor who advocated role for traditional institution, advised Government to partner socio-cultural organizations for the development of society. He further encouraged ADF to continue its advocacy and sensitization of Ndigbo for advancing the cause of the Igbo nation. Obi also preached unity among Ndigbo. In his remark, the pioneer President of ADF, Professor Uzodinma Nwala, said the objective of ADF had been galvanize Igbo stakeholders for the development of Alaigbo. The new national President of ADF, Nze Coleman Emeka Chukudelunzu, called for unity among Ndigbo to rebuild Igbo land. Earlier in his opening remarks, the Chairman of the event, Maj General Chris Eze (retd.), commended the doggedness of Ndigbo to overcome the challenges of the civil war. Highlights of the two -day event were the inauguration of the new national leadership of ADF, and cutting of the anniversary cake. 4 Likes
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| Politics › LG Autonomy Judgment Is A Conspiracy Against Democracy – Ayo Adebanjo by Fareke(op): 6:06pm On Jul 13, 2024 |
The pan-Yoruba socio-political association, Afenifere, has condemned the judgment of the Supreme Court which granted total financial autonomy to the local governments in Nigeria.https://punchng.com/lg-autonomy-scourt-judgment-conspiracy-against-democracy-afenifere/?amp 13 Likes 3 Shares
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| Family › DNA Results Reveal 11 Americans Have Nigerian Roots by Fareke(op): 10:24pm On Jul 08, 2024 |
By Solomon Odeniyi No fewer than 11 Americans have discovered their Nigerian roots through ancestry DNA testing at the Consulate of Nigeria in New York. The Nigerian-linked Americans are Maleeka Harris, Shatara Corbett, Abel Watson, Darryl Rattray, Antonia Coleman-Brown, Nicole Williams, Pablo Blanco, Estena Turner, William Conley, Keith Howard, and Gina Paige. The 11 Americans were discovered to have Nigerian lineages of Igbo, Hausa, Fulani, Yoruba, Yoruba-Fulani, Hausa-Fulani and Fulani-Kanuri through ancestry DNA testing. This was contained in a statement from the information desk of the Consulate, signed by Tiamiyu Arobani on Monday. Arobani also said several others were discovered to have their roots linked with eight African countries, including Cameroon, The Gambia, Senegal, Ghana, and Niger Republic. In his remarks, the Consul-General of Nigeria in New York, Amb Abubakar Jidda, said the discovery of Nigerian ancestry not only bridged cultural gaps but also celebrated the enduring bonds between Nigeria and the global African community. "As you may be aware, Nigeria, with its rich tapestry of cultures and history, stands as a leader within the African continent. And we have continued to celebrate this shared heritage,” Jidda said. The Nigerian envoy said the event was significant as it brought to light the rich, shared history between Nigeria and its diaspora, fostering a renewed sense of identity and belonging. "So, Nigeria welcomes you. The Consulate offers various educational and cultural opportunities aimed at promoting cultural exchanges. “We encourage you also to explore these opportunities and deepen your knowledge and understanding of Nigeria and African cultures. “We invite you to stay connected with us for future events and activities that celebrate our shared values. Let this be the beginning of a lifelong journey of discovery,” he said. The Consul-General commended the curiosity and dedication of all the participants in their journeys to uncover their African heritage. Unveiling the ancestry DNA test results, Co-founder and President of AfricanAncestry.com, Dr Gina Paige, said hosting the ‘Ancestry Reveal’ event at the Nigerian Consulate had deepened the experience for all participants, especially those whose roots traced to Nigeria. Paige also praised the NYC Department of Youth and Community Development for its partnership “on this unprecedented Rites of Passage programme for the City’s youth”. Speaking on the significance of the event, she said the mission of AfricanAncestry.com is to help Black people transform how they view themselves and Africa by using DNA to identify their last identities. https://punchng.com/dna-results-reveal-11-americans-have-nigerian-roots/
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| Crime › Nigerian Police Say Abuja Man Who Climbed Mast To Commit Suicide Is In Custody by Fareke(op): 9:47pm On Jul 08, 2024 |
The Nigerian police in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja, has arrested a man seen at the top of a radio mast trying to commit suicide in Abuja, on Monday morning, who is identified as Shuaibu Yushau.https://saharareporters.com/2024/07/08/nigerian-police-say-abuja-man-who-climbed-mast-commit-suicide-custody 3 Likes
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| Crime › EFCC Asks Morocco, Tunisia, Algeria To Watch-List Yahaya Bello by Fareke(op): 4:59am On Jul 08, 2024 |
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has asked INTERPOL in three North African countries of Morocco, Tunisia, Algeria to watch-list former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello, it was learnt at the weekendhttps://thenationonlineng.net/efcc-asks-moroco-tunisia-algeria-to-watch-list-bello/amp/ 9 Likes 2 Shares
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| Politics › Fuel Scarcity Looms As Depots Raise Petrol Price To ₦720/Litre by Fareke(op): 4:31am On Jul 08, 2024 |
Okechukwu Nnodim, Dare Olawin and Anozie Egole Fuel scarcity is gradually surfacing in Lagos and other parts of the country as private depot owners hiked the ex-depot price of petrol from N630 to N720 per litre.https://punchng.com/fuel-scarcity-looms-as-depots-raise-petrol-price-to-n720-litre/ 1 Like
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| Politics › Let’s Learn From Kenyan Experience – Peter Obi Tasks Political Leaders by Fareke(op): 5:37pm On Jul 07, 2024 |
By Matthew Atungwu The Labour Party, LP, presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, Peter Obi, has tasked Nigerian political leaders to learn a lesson from the recent Kenyan experience.https://dailypost.ng/2024/07/07/lets-learn-from-kenyan-experience-peter-obi-tasks-political-leaders/ 58 Likes 5 Shares
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| Politics › ECOWAS Heads Meeting Begins In Abuja by Fareke(op): 4:50pm On Jul 07, 2024 |
By Stephen Angbulu As President Bola Tinubu’s tenure as the Chairman of the Authority of Heads of State and Government of the ECOWAS elapses on July 9, 2024, presidents and representatives of 12 member states are currently meeting at the State House Conference Centre in Abuja, for the 63rd Ordinary Summit. The meeting, which began at 1pm, would likely see the West African leaders announce a new chair to steer the affairs of the bloc for the next one year. However, there are indications that leaders may extend Tinubu’s tenure to give him time to possibly win back Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso into the bloc. Details later… https://punchng.com/just-in-ecowas-heads-meeting-begins-in-abuja/?amp
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| Politics › Tinubu Has Seven More Years To Deliver Road Projects – Umahi by Fareke(op): 6:51pm On Jul 06, 2024 |
Minster of works David Umahi said the Renewed Hope Legacy Infrastructure Project of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is designed to cover eight years.https://thenationonlineng.net/tinubu-has-seven-more-years-to-deliver-road-projects-umahi/amp/ 7 Likes
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| Politics › Insecurity: Nigerians Must Be Safe – Tinubu Charges Army by Fareke(op): 5:23pm On Jul 06, 2024 |
By Agabus Pwanagba President Bola Tinubu has charged the Nigerian Army to ensure that violent groups do not overwhelm peaceful and law abiding Nigerians.https://dailypost.ng/2024/07/06/insecurity-nigerians-must-be-safe-tinubu-charges-army/ 6 Likes 2 Shares
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| Politics › Why Agitations For Secession Continue 54 Years After Civil War by Fareke(op): 9:23am On Jul 06, 2024 |
By Andrew Agbese It is almost 54 years since then head of state of Nigeria, Col.Yakubu Gowon officially received the instrument of surrender from Philip Effiong, on behalf of the self-declared Republic of Biafra. It would be recalled that the war started on the 6th of July, 1967. Effiong, who was the deputy to the Biafran leader, Col. Odumegwu Ojukwu, had assumed the position of acting head of state, after Ojukwu, the leader of the secession bid had abandoned the struggle and proceeded out of the country. More than five decades after a bitter civil war which lasted for about 30 months was fought to stop the bid to carve the then Eastern region out of Nigeria, to form a separate country, agitations to balkanise the country, have resurfaced with various groups and sub-groups issuing threats. This is despite the fact that the Nigerian government, over the years has deliberately taken various measures to unite the people. The Yakubu Gowon administration for instance introduced the three Rs: Reconstruction, Rehabilitation and Reconciliation programme, to foster integration and understanding amongst the diverse groups in Nigeria and later pursued schemes such as the Unity Schools and the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC). Various governments also created many states to give aggrieved ethnic nationalities a sense of belonging. Little wonder that more than two decades after the Eastern region was reabsorbed into Nigeria, the country became free of such agitations. But by the mid 90s, the nation woke up to fresh agitations from the South-western part of the country. The military regimes of Murtala Muhammed/Olusegun Obasanjo; the civilian administration of Shehu Shagari; right through the military regime of Ibrahim Babangida did not have to deal with such agitations. It was not until the regime of General Sani Abacha, that the South-western part of the country, seething from the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential elections, began to clamour for the validation of the mandate they insisted was won by Chief Moshood Abiola. They insisted that, that should be done or they would opt out of the Nigerian federation. This has been followed by many other agitations with the most vociferous being the current campaign by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) led by Nnamdi Kanu, which started in the year 2012. Investigations on why the clamour resurfaced have shown that the reasons vary with each agitation as well as the methods deployed. More worrisome is the fact that the agitations have brought socio-economic hardships to the affected areas while pitting them against the government. The return to democracy in 1999, however, saw more of such agitations; with the major ones being the Movement for the Actualisation of the Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB), the numerous skirmishes by aggrieved groups in the Niger Delta, the attempt by Sunday Igboho to expel herdsmen from Yorubaland and the IPOB. The Boko Haram sect, which had its base in the North-east of Nigeria, also toyed with the idea of pulling certain local government areas out of Nigeria and even hoisted its flag in some. What could be responsible for the rise in these agitations more than five decades after the first major attempt failed? Feelers sourced by our correspondents indicate the fear of marginalisation and lack of social justice as major reasons. Some sections of the country feel they are not being fairly treated and accuse the Nigerian state and the other parts of marginalising them. There are also those who demand better deal from Nigeria and are expressing same through such agitations. These, according to our findings, are partly what have led to calls for restructuring of the country over the years as people see it as a way of addressing these perceived imbalances and giving all sections a sense of belonging. Background to previous agitations Incidentally, the fear of dominance by some sections of the country precedes even independence. Historians trace such sentiments to when the demand for independence was made in 1953, when northern leaders initially declined support for independence when it was moved on grounds that the North was not ready, but later amended their support to ‘as soon as practicable’. The reaction in the South, which portrayed them as opposed to freedom coupled with how the northern leaders were booed on their way back from Lagos, led to the first “Araba agitation”, which was the northern masses, way of objecting to the humiliation meted to their leaders, and saying they could not be in one country with the other parts of Nigeria. By 1959, however, when all the regions finally agreed on independence, the mutual suspicion continued, but did not fester to the point of threatening to disintegrate the country. https://dailytrust.com/why-agitations-for-secession-continue-54-years-after-civil-war/
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| Politics › Bayero’s Lawyers Withdraw From Kano Emirship Tussle Case by Fareke(op): 8:52pm On Jul 04, 2024 |
Mr Abddul Muhammed SAN and other counsel for the 15th Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado-Bayero, in the ongoing Kano emirship tussle, have withdrawn their legal services before the State High Court. The applicants in the matter are the Attorney General of Kano State, the Speaker Kano State House of Assembly, and the Kano State House of Assembly. The applicants, through their counsel, Ibrahim Isah-Wangida, filed a motion ex parte dated May 27. They are asking the court to restrain Ado-Bayero and four other dethroned emirs of Bichi, Rano, Gaya, and Karaye from parading themselves as emirs. The respondents are Ado-Bayero, Alhaji Nasiru Ado-Bayero Bichi Emir, Dr Ibrahim Abubakar ll, emir of Karaye, Alhaji Kabiru Muhammad-Inuwa, Emir of Rano and Alhaji Aliyu Ibrahim-Gaya, Emir of Gaya. Others are the Inspector General of Police, Director of State Security Service, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and Nigeria Army. When the case came up for hearing, counsel for Ado-Bayero, Muhammed, informed the court that he had an affidavit of fact dated July 3, attached with a notice of appeal and a motion of stay of proceedings. He urged the court to stay proceedings, pending the hearing and determination of the motion at the appeal court. “We were served with the court processes this morning by the applicants,” he said. He sought an adjournment to enable them to respond, but the court refused to grant his prayers. “My Lord, myself, and other counsel representing the first respondent apply for the withdrawal of our legal services and appearances,” he said. Counsel for the third, fourth, and fifth respondents, Hassan Tanko-Kyaure, moved his application for an extension of time dated July 2 and counter affidavit in response to the originating motion. He urged the court to set aside the Kano State Emirates Council (Repeal) Law 2024, adding that due process was not followed. Tanko-Kyaure also urged the court to dismiss the applicant’s application with a cost of N1 billion. Counsel for the Inspector-General of Police, Mr Sunday Ekwe, told the court that he had nothing to present, adding that they left everything to the discretion of the court. Responding, counsel for the applicant, Mr Eyitayo Fatogun, urged the court to discountenance the respondent’s affidavit of facts pursuant to Order 39, Rules 1 and 2 of the court. He said, “The motion refers to a proposed notice of appeal not a notice of appeal. It shows that the affidavit of facts is just to delay the proceedings. My Lord, the business of today is for the hearing of all pending applications.” Fatogun urged the court to dismiss the third, fourth and fifth respondents’ applications on the issue of Kano Emirate Repeal Law because the issue is not before the court. Earlier, delivering a ruling, Justice Amina Adamu-Aliyu refused the application for stay of proceedings filed by the respondent. ‘The respondent did not disclose any special fact to warrant any stay of proceedings” Adamu-Aliyu said. The judge adjourned the matter till July 18 to rule on an application for extension of time, notice of preliminary objection, setting aside ex parte order, joinder application, and judge to recuse herself among others. https://punchng.com/bayeros-lawyers-withdraw-from-kano-emirship-tussle-case/ 1 Like 1 Share
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| Health › 10-hour Rainfall: Businesses Grounded, House Collapses As Flood Overtakes Lagos by Fareke(op): 6:01am On Jul 04, 2024 |
Seven rescued from collapsed building, flood-induced traffic disrupts movement in Lagos, Ogun Business and commercial activities were grounded on Wednesday following a 10-hour downpour in many parts of Lagos and Ogun states. The resulting flooding brought down a two-storey building in the Mushin area of Lagos, grounded vehicular movement on the roads and overwhelmed thousands of residents while pupils could not attend schools in parts of the states. Though the Lagos State government said the rain lasted for nine hours, in some parts of the state, it started at midnight and did not subside until noon, making it 12 hours. Such places include Berger, Ikeja, Ogba and in some parts, the rain lasted for 10 hours. Our correspondents, who visited some affected flooded areas such as Iyana-Oworo, Agege, Ijegun-Isheri Osun, Gbagada and Lagos Island in Lagos State, observed that roads and houses were flooded as a result of long hours of downpour. Other flooded places in Lagos include Eredo, Bojije, Epe, Sangotedo, Ibeju-Lekki, Awoyaya, Labora, and Abijon. The PUNCH also visited Atan-Ota, Aseese, Ifo, Sango-Ota, and Ijebu-Ode in Ogun State and observed that major roads were submerged, making them impassable and leaving passengers stranded. The heavy showers, which began around 12am, were blamed for the collapse of a two-storey building on Cameroon Road in the Mushin area of Lagos, injuring seven people. The Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Emergency Management Authority, Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, stated that the seven victims were rescued alive from the collapsed structure. He attributed the collapse of the newly constructed building to the inclement weather. He said, “Early this morning, seven people were rescued alive from a building in Ewenla, Mushin, that collapsed in the inclement weather. “Upon arrival of the LRT at the scene of the incident, it was discovered that a newly constructed two-storey building had collapsed. Three females and four males were rescued alive and taken to a nearby hospital for treatment. "The agency’s search-and-rescue team had searched the rubbles and can confirm that there is no victim underneath the collapsed building. The area has been cordoned off, and operations are still ongoing.” Non-essential travels Due to the unpredictable weather conditions, the LASEMA boss also urged Lagos residents to remain calm and avoid any non-essential travel. "We are urging the good people of Lagos to remain calm and refrain from any non-essential travel due to the incidence of flash floods across the state,” he added. Students currently taking exams were affected by the downpour as some schools in White Sand Estate, Isheri-Osun, in the Alimosho Local Government Area of Lagos, closed. The students were advised to stay home due to the hazardous roads. The PUNCH reports that White Sand Estate is one of the hardest-hit areas in Lagos, frequently experiencing severe flooding. Flooding in White Sand Estate is a recurring issue, with the area suffering from poor roads, inadequate drainage systems, and a lack of maintenance. Wednesday’s downpour once again flooded homes, with water reaching mid-level levels. Our correspondent observed that many residents were trapped in their apartments, unable even to sit down as their living spaces were submerged. A parent, identified simply as Atinuke, shared a message from the school with our correspondent, praising the school’s management for their “pragmatic” decision. The message read, “Good morning, dearest parents, trust your night was splendid. Due to the heavy downpour and a predicted serious rainy weather forecast today, we have decided to close the school and postpone today’s exam. As you can see, almost everywhere is flooded. “As a school, we prioritise the safety of our geniuses above everything else. Consequently, the school bus will also not operate today. We are extremely sorry for the inconvenience.” Atinuke called for the state government’s intervention, lamenting that water had flooded her living room, forcing her to remove the furniture. She said, “The rain has entered my house again; just look at the environment. This is White Sand Estate in Isheri-Osun.” The area was flooded, making it impossible for cars and motorcycles to navigate, while the pedestrians faced significant risks as the flooding obscured drainage channels. The Public Relations Officer of the area’s Community Development, Johnson Olabode, expressed his frustration, stating, “We are at it again this year. Everywhere is filled with water. I have been up since 3am when the rain started, and all I could do was watch my house get flooded. We can’t even start removing the water until the rain stops.” He added that schools have notified parents to keep their children at home due to the severe conditions. Meanwhile, some residents have called on the Lagos State government to urgently address this ongoing problem in their community. A resident, identified as John Adewale, decried that the flooding had become a yearly nightmare for them. He said, “This has become a yearly nightmare for us. Every time it rains heavily, we know our homes will be flooded. We’ve been pleading with the government for better drainage systems, but nothing seems to be happening. We’re stuck inside with water everywhere.” Flood submerges roads Major roads such as Majek, Abraham Adesanya, and Awoyaya-Sangotedo were also impacted, with ongoing road construction further worsening the situation. Commercial vehicles and motorcycles seized the opportunity to hike transport fares. A resident, Anuoluwapo Atanda, in the Pen Cinema, Agege area of Lagos, said that the flood affected her house due to the blocked drainage in her area. She revealed that it also impacted all the houses on her street and the adjacent one. Atanda said, “Flooding is an issue here because residents refuse to clean their drainage systems. The main reason for the flood is the dirty and congested drainage filled with waste. “The government is trying to create a larger drainage system on the link road to my street, but the work has been slow and rough. I think this season is not the right time to do it. "They just dug the drainage, but water is not flowing in it because it hasn’t been completed. Once the water in the gutter fills up, it flows into the road and people’s houses. https://punchng.com/10-hour-rainfall-businesses-grounded-house-collapses-as-flood-overtakes-lagos/?amp
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| Crime › Court Jails India-bound Nigerian Drug Trafficker For 25 Years In Lagos by Fareke(op): 8:37pm On Jul 02, 2024 |
ADelhi, India-bound passenger, Carr Bismark, also known as Ogbonna Charles Freeman has been sentenced to 25 years imprisonment by a Federal High Court sitting in Lagos State. He was arraigned before Justice Dipeolu Deinde Isaac of the Federal High Court, Lagos in charge number FHCL/378/2024 for committing an offence contrary to section 20(1)(b) and punishable under section 20(2)(a) of the NDLEA Act Cap N30 LFN 2004. However, delivering his judgement on the case on Monday, Justice Dipeolu sentenced Ogbonna to 25 years in prison without an option of fine. The development is coming after three months he vomited and excreted eighty (80) wraps of cocaine following his arrest by operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, at the screening point of terminal 2 of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, MMIA Ikeja Lagos, Ogbonna was arrested on Sunday, March 31, while attempting to board his flight to Delhi, India via Doha on Qatar Airways, with a Liberian international passport, bearing the name: Carr Bismark. He was taken for body scan, which tested positive for ingestion of illicit drugs. Preliminary checks revealed his real identity as Freeman Charles Ogbonna and was subsequently placed under observation in NDLEA custody where he started to manifest signs of discomfort. Obviously choked by the volume of illicit drugs in his stomach and another substance taken to hold back excretion, the suspect soon began to retch before starting to vomit and excrete wraps of cocaine he ingested almost simultaneously. The suspect who claimed he was recruited into drug trafficking by one of his relatives eventually passed out a total of 80 wraps of cocaine weighing 889 grams through his mouth and anus over a period of four days. The great risk that almost took his life notwithstanding, Ogbonna said he was given the drugs to swallow at a hotel in Ipodo area of Ikeja with a promise to reward him with N300,000 cash if he successfully delivers the consignment in India. Chairman/Chief Executive of NDLEA, Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd) commended the MMIA Command and the prosecution team for a fast and diligent handling of the case, adding that the judiciary remains a strong pillar in the coordinated and concerted effort to curb the scourge of substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking in Nigeria. According to a statement signed by Femi Babafemi, Director, Media and Advocacy NDLEA, Ogbonna’s conviction would further send a strong signal to his ilk that there will be no hiding place for drug barons and their mules. https://saharareporters.com/2024/07/02/court-jails-india-bound-nigerian-drug-trafficker-25-years-lagos
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| Politics › Nnamdi Kanu: Peter Obi Has Declared Allegiance To Biafran Flag – Omokri Alle by Fareke(op): 6:59pm On Jun 30, 2024 |
By Seun Opejobi Reno Omokri, a socio-political activist, on Sunday accused the 2023 presidential candidate of Labour Party, LP, Peter Obi of showing allegiance to the Biafra flag. This was as Omokri said Obi declared the obituary of his presidential ambition by calling for the release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB. Recall that Obi had urged President Bola Tinubu-led Federal Government to release Kanu, EndSARS protesters, and other freedom fighters locked up. Addressing journalists on Saturday in Anambra State, Obi said protesters and freedom fighters have the right to express their grievances through protest. However, posting Obi and Biafra’s flag on his X page, Omokri wrote: “The ‘Release Nnamdi Kanu Now’ statement by Peter Obi is the obituary of Peter Obi’s Presidential ambition. “By calling for the release of a man who made public broadcasts asking his supporters to kill Nigerian military and paramilitary forces wherever they find them and has neither apologised nor repented of that order, Peter Obi just showed his allegiance to the flag behind him in this photo and which he used for his Hero beer logo! "And by the way, anybody or group of people or movement that thinks they can intimidate me and prevent me from saying what I really believe at any point in time obviously does not know me. My body does not secrete the fear hormone.” https://dailypost.ng/2024/06/30/nnamdi-kanu-peter-obi-has-declared-allegiance-to-biafran-flag-omokri-alleges/ 4 Likes
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| Politics › Obi Decries Insecurity In Nigeria, Calls For Release Of Kanu, Other Detainee by Fareke(op): 5:45pm On Jun 29, 2024 |
By Joe Chukindi Presidential candidate of Labour Party in the 2023 election, Peter Obi has lamented the level of insecurity in Nigeria, calling for the release of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, other freedom fighters and any #EndSARS protesters still being detained. Obi who spoke to journalists on Saturday morning in Onitsha, called on leaders to double their efforts in providing security for citizens, saying that if nothing was done, the country may become a failed nation. He said: “The primary work of government is the security of lives and property. It is the foundation on which people can live in any nation because no one can stay in an insecure place. “It is worrisome what is happening in Nigeria with the news of killings, abductions and others which has made Nigeria one of the most insecure places on the surface of the earth. Infact, it is leading to a failed nation. “I thank government for their efforts so far, but there is need to do more, and all leaders must come together to join hands and fight this. In the South-East, there is need for the governors to come together to be able to tackle it. “Even on economic agenda, I want to see the South-East governors work closely more. We want to see them come together and also bring together other groups in the zone.” Giving his views on the continued detention of Kanu, Obi said: “I don’t see any reason for his continued detention, especially as the courts have granted him bail. Government must obey the court. “Rule of law is an intricate asset that we must cherish and live with. I use this opportunity to plead with government to ensure that all those who are in similar conditions are released and discussed with. We are in a democracy and we should not be doing things that are arbitrary and not within the law.” Speaking about protest in Kenya and if he supports Nigerians to do same, the former governor said: “I’m against riot or destruction of government assets and property, because it is still scarce resources that we are going to use to repair them, but I’m not against peaceful protests. “Peaceful protest is allowed, but it must be for a reason and not personal interest of some people to satisfy a particular interest. It must be properly articulated and properly directed. “I recall when people said there were protesting police brutality and I said to them no, let’s rather deal with the leadership. If we have good leaders, their agents can’t be bad. The problem is leadership. If the leaders are competent, have the capacity and do the right thing, their agents will follow their examples. “I want to use this opportunity to say that all those who are being held because of one protest or the other should be released. Whether it is freedom fighters, #EndSARS protesters, or even because of freedom of speech, be it journalists, let them all be released immediately. “We are a democratic country and people have right under the Constitution to express themselves freely. They also have right to peacefully protest and we must listen to them. We must listen to those who say they are not happy, that is why it is a democratic nation. We should stop acting dictatorial and behave as if this is not a democratic country. “I know we are in a state capture, but then, we should act in a manner that shows some decency.” On whether there are plans for him to join other politicians to form a mega party to oust the All Progressives Congress, APC, Obi said he had no such plans. “I will rather say that I’m more particular on how the poor Nigerian can feed. I will rather talk about things that are affecting Nigerians today. We politicians are preoccupied by election, and that is not what I’m after. I’m talking about how do we reduce the price of food? “Our people are dying of hunger, how do we make life more conducive for the poor Nigerian? ow do we make our people to earn more money? How do we pull people out of poverty? That should be our concern, and not forming a mega party. “But if forming mega party is to be able to provide all these things I have illustrated, then I’m all for it. But if it is for state capture, so that you can take power and continue with the consumption, consumption, consumption, that we see today, I will say no. But if it is to move it to production, production, production, then I say yes.” https://dailypost.ng/2024/06/29/obi-decries-insecurity-in-nigeria-calls-for-release-of-kanu-other-detainees/ 1 Like
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| Politics › Senator Olalere Oyewumi Confessed Buying Votes by Fareke(op): 3:41pm On Jun 29, 2024 |
‘You Should Be In Jail’, Nigerians Knock PDP Senator Who Confessed Buying Voteshttps://dailytrust.com/you-should-be-in-jail-nigerians-knock-pdp-senator-who-confessed-buying-votes/ 10 Likes 3 Shares
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| Christianity Etc › Those Criticising Me For Not Covering My Head In Mecca Are Ignorant — Oluwo by Fareke(op): 7:13am On Jun 29, 2024 |
Biodun Busari The Paramount Ruler of Iwo, Osun State, Oba Abdulrosheed Adewale Akanbi, speaks with BIODUN BUSARI about his disdain for idols, the expectations of traditional institutions, and his experience at Hajj, among other topics You frequently stress your aversion to idol worship. Have any of your chiefs or kingmakers expressed displeasure with this stance? First of all, I give glory to the Almighty God. He is the King of kings. You ask why I choose to worship the Almighty God and not idols. Worshipping idols is a matter of the heart, not an understanding of the institution of kings. The institution of kingship is a Godly institution. God owns all kings. That is why He is called the King of kings. The root of kingship is about God Himself, who first enthroned kings. In history, the first man God made king was Adam. Speaking about the Yoruba people, we may ask who made Oduduwa king. We should ask ourselves if Oduduwa worshipped idols like Sango (the god of thunder). It is to God that we ascribe the title of ‘Kabiyesi’ or ‘Oba’. These titles are synonymous with God Almighty. Because God is invisible, He appoints kings in all kingdoms as His representatives. So, He’s called King of kings, not King of chiefs. He has given the affairs of the kingdoms to kings, making Him the author of power. Every king must and should be the representative of God Almighty. All kings are to be heirs of ‘Olodumare’. If kings acknowledge that God gives them the thrones to sit on, it becomes their duty to bring people closer to God, not to idols. Kings must pay one hundred per cent allegiance to God, not ninety-nine per cent. All the troubles happening in Yoruba land at the moment are because the kings have chosen other masters for themselves, other than God. They do not have total allegiance to their Creator. That is why kings are not respected. No history shows that kings began worshipping idols. Oduduwa was older than Ogun (the god of iron). Ogun did not exist at the time Oduduwa reigned. And Oya (wife of Sango) — how can a king worship another man’s wife? If it were the olden days, even I, as a king, could seize any woman of such standing. So, tell me how a king would pay obeisance to such people they call gods? It’s even an insult for Yoruba kings to worship Sango because his name is not linked to Yoruba origin. Sango’s father was Yoruba, but his mother was from Ibariba in Nupe. It was his mother who gave him the name ‘Sango’. It is not a Yoruba name. Even Ogun was from Ekiti. He didn’t visit Iwo land, so does it make sense for the people of Iwo to say they want to worship Ogun? Even Oya was from Ira in Kwara State. Kings are not meant to worship Ogun? Even Oya was from Ira in Kwara State. Kings are not meant to worship idols. They are the representatives of the Almighty God. Even alfas and pastors, who are servants of God, know how to speak about God better than kings who are His representatives. The idol worshippers lie to people, saying deity worshipping is the culture and tradition of the Yoruba. There is no such thing in our history. Our culture and tradition are about our clothes, like ofi, agbada, abeti aja, and greetings, where males prostrate and females kneel. When it comes to idol worshipping, then you have turned to herbalists and the use of voodoo. Worshipping idols is not our identity as Yoruba people. Idol worshipping is universal in the ignorance of people who don’t know how to worship the Almighty God. It is a man who makes another man like himself an idol. It was man who created idolatry. So, God is the owner of my stool, and I cannot give it to idols. Do the chiefs and kingmakers in Iwoland align with your belief in the Almighty God and your opposition to idol worship? Let me tell you, it’s many of these chiefs and kingmakers in Yoruba land who have created problems for kings. Do you know that not all chiefs are friends of the king? These chiefs cannot become kings, so they want different kings to sit on the throne almost every day. Some kingmakers want kings to die early to make money from installing another king. They only make money during the enthronement and installation of kings, so it is in their interest for kings to die prematurely, allowing them to install as many kings as possible. With this mentality, they are ready to lead kings astray. That’s why it is the king, as the driver of the town or city, who must direct his people towards knowing and serving God. The king must be responsible for steering the wheels of the kingdom. I must be able to correct some mistakes of my forefathers. In the olden days, cattle faeces were used to paint houses. Are we now going to say we should continue that in this modern age? In those days, there were tribal marks, but now we are no longer doing that. I am speaking about tradition and culture, which has nothing to do with idol worship, I’m the best to do that in Yoruba land at the moment. I move with class. I let the younger generation know that our fashion is great. Some herbalists will tell you that everything about kingship is just idol worship. It is not true. I’m a reformist. I came to reform the traditional institution. Do you face opposition in your kingdom concerning this? Like I said earlier, I’m the driver of the kingdom, and nobody can take the steering wheel from me. The chiefs are just like passengers in my vehicle. They have to wait until I arrive at my destination, which I believe I’m achieving. I’m moving towards greatness. The achievements are there, and that’s why my people love me. Even at night, I’m a king who can move freely without fear among my people. I have protection from God the Almighty. God is always with those who stick to Him. It’s God who created Yoruba, Hausa, Igbo, and other tribes, and He protects me always. I’m an unrepentant and die-hard fan of the Almighty God. There is no weapon from the opposition that can move me. And this isn’t about me, but for all kings who stay with God. As a first-class paramount ruler, with 35 kings under me, I know the right things and am trying to enlighten other kings. Iwo is one of the promoters of Yoruba language, the kind of Yoruba language that students can use to write WAEC examinations. I’m a custodian of culture and tradition in Yoruba land, but I’ll never promote anything outside of God. I can boldly say that all palaces in Yoruba land belong to God. Ideally, kings should be promoting God more than pastors and imams. What legacy do you aim to leave in Iwoland? My desired legacy is to put Olodumare in the heart of everyone. There is one God that we serve. You don’t need to reach Him through an Ekiti god, nor do you need an Agemo to reach Him. Everyone can access God directly. If you want to know about God, you can go to kings who don’t worship deities. My legacy is to introduce God to everyone I meet. Anywhere I promote God, people in that area will know me. This universe is God’s company, and He makes kings like executive officers, so they have to pay allegiance back to Him, not idols. Kings have no business worshipping idols or deities. You can’t describe Yoruba people as Christians, Muslims, or idol worshippers, but by their culture, which includes language, greetings, dress, music, and dancing. What roles should traditional institutions play in contributing to the betterment of the country? The traditional rulers in this country have a significant role to play, but they lack recognition. There should be no hiding place for criminals if traditional rulers are fully empowered. Crimes in any area would be known to the local monarch, whether the criminals were the monarch’s children, chiefs’ children, or strangers. However, these criminals cannot be traced or known if the government does not fund the traditional institutions. There are instruments needed to achieve this, but they are not provided. The kings do not have autonomy, so they are toothless. Traditional institutions have been degraded because politicians do not appreciate kingship. They do not like us because they do not belong to royal families. If they understood the importance of kingship, they would recognise that it is the institution that should be empowered the most. If you empower the kings, there would be no lapses in security. Even the police in the communities lack adequate patrol vehicles. Traditional rulers are not well paid. Kings are paid peanuts. I can speak for the South-West, particularly Osun State and Iwo, where kings are paid one-fifth of peanuts. There is little a king can do with this because he needs to fund the police. How can police, without vehicles to pursue criminals, stop crimes? There are numerous problems at the grassroots level. Only the kings have power over the grassroots. The situation is in disarray because kingship is not where it should be. To be a king, you must be ready to serve the people. If you cannot do that, then you cannot be a ruler. You cannot lord it over the people. The king is a representative of God, who does not sleep day or night, so kings must also serve their people diligently. If you cannot serve your people, kingship is not for you. A king must also treat his subjects as kings, not as slaves. There is a belief that Yoruba kings must join an occult group before ascending the throne. Can you address this perception and share your stance on it? No. I will not subject my crown to idols or occult practices. The people behind this are not even as powerful as kings, so you cannot expect me to downgrade myself. The people who make decisions in these occult groups are not kings, so how can they be dishing out authority to kings? I can’t subject my crown to those people because they know that I understand the value of my kingship. An Oba is the ruler of all. I’m not in the league of occult group members. I’m the boss. I’m the king. Are you saying you were not ordained by deities? What is a deity? I just told you that I don’t associate myself with idol worshippers. I’m ordained by the King of Kings. Who created deities? Is it not men who call themselves deities? When Ogun was alive, was he a deity? It was after he died that people made him a deity, and he is not speaking anymore. He has written his history. Our forefathers have written their history, so let me write my own. Do you want me to live in their time? They wrote their history, and they should permit me to write mine too. These people and what they did should be kept in museums where priceless things are preserved. Let every town or city have a museum to keep these records so people can learn about them, not worship them. You just asked me about the legacy I want to leave. Should I be telling people about Ogun’s legacies, or should I spend time leaving behind my legacy? Instead of worshipping Ogun and the rest, I should rather worship my father, who took care of me. I’m not a fool or so stupid as to worship idols or belong to occult groups. Do you have a relationship with other traditional rulers in Yoruba land, and how cordial is it? Yes, I do. However, all kings have different philosophies, beliefs, and approaches to life. I don’t compromise my principles and policies. My principles of doing things might be unique, but I never compromise my principle of worshipping God. That’s the principle I uphold. I’m a die-hard fan of God. I don’t promote deities; I promote only the King of Kings. I believe that every king in Yoruba land is an arole to God and should be carrying the flag of the Almighty. There were widespread criticisms regarding your decision not to cover your head during the recent Hajj in Mecca. Could you explain the reasoning behind this choice? I respect and serve God. I have business with God, not with people. I went to Hajj to fulfil one of the pillars of Islam. Hajj is the fifth pillar of Islam. When we go there, we don’t wear clothes, caps, shoes, or underwear. Some presidents were there doing the same thing. Let me tell you, I’m not ashamed of the God that I serve. People can be very ignorant, so I don’t listen to or read their comments. I do what works for me and serve God. I ignore the noise in the market because it can distract you. For example, if you go to the market to buy mangoes and fishmongers are calling you, if you’re not careful, you’ll lose focus on why you came to the market. People are so ignorant. The crowns that kings wear are mere symbols, but the invisible crowns are the authority that God gives to kings. It is those with insight who see the invisible crowns that God places on the heads of kings. Even if I don’t wear a physical crown, there is a special crown from God on my head. I aspire to be a great king, and my name will be remembered like King Solomon or David. I aim to leave a greater legacy than them. So when I went to Saudi Arabia to perform Tawaf around the Kaaba without covering my head, it was in obedience to God. Let people keep their superstitions to themselves. This is acceptable to my God. https://punchng.com/those-criticising-me-for-not-covering-my-head-in-mecca-are-ignorant-oluwo/
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| Crime › Court Orders Permanent Forfeiture Of Emefiele’s ₦12 Billion Property by Fareke(op): 8:48pm On Jun 22, 2024 |
The Federal High Court in Lagos has ordered the permanent forfeiture of properties worth over N11.14 billion and N1.04 billion belonging to the former Central Bank of Nigeria Governor, Godwin Emefiele to the Federal Government.https://punchng.com/emefiele-to-permanently-forfeit-n12bn-property/?amp 22 Likes 2 Shares
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| Politics › Biafra Agitation A Spirit, Beyond Nnamdi Kanu, Ekpa – Lawyer, Idam by Fareke(op): 9:57am On Jun 22, 2024 |
By Seun Opejobi An activist lawyer, Madubuachi Idam on Saturday said the agitation for Biafra is beyond Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, and self-acclaimed Biafra Prime Minister, Simon Ekpa. Idam said the agitation for the sovereign state of Biafra is a spirit that resonates in every Igbo man. Speaking with DAILY POST, Idam said a lot of people from the Southeast were not comfortable with Kanu and Ekpa’s style of agitation. Kanu has been locked up by the Department of State Services, DSS, since June 2021 when he was arrested in Kenya and repatriated to Nigeria. While in detention, insecurity in the South-east has escalated with gunmen on the prowl. Commenting on the agitation, Idam said: “The agitation for Biafra has always been beyond Kanu and Simon Ekpa. Kanu has been locked up by the Department of State Services, DSS, since June 2021 when he was arrested in Kenya and repatriated to Nigeria. While in detention, insecurity in the South-east has escalated with gunmen on the prowl. Commenting on the agitation, Idam said: “The agitation for Biafra has always been beyond Kanu and Simon Ekpa. "The agitation for the emancipation of Biafra has always been a spirit in every Igbo man. “It does not resonate within Kanu and Ekpa alone, it’s a spirit that lives in every Igbo man. The example of this is that since they had Kanu in detention, has the agitation stopped? The answer is no. “I can tell you that not every Biafran is comfortable with the style of these two persons. So many people, including myself have reservations for their styles, though we believe that the emancipation of the Biafran people is necessary through a peaceful approach. “The agitation has always been beyond these two and I must tell you the agitation can’t die with them.” The Abuja-based constitutional lawyer charged the Nigerian government to ensure an inclusive government. He noted that Biafra agitation was due to marginalization of the Southeast. Idam said: “The Nigerian state must ensure an inclusive government because some of us agitation are clamouring for that. “The Igbos are saying that they are marginalized. So, why will the state not look at their yearning, knowing that if it include these set of people the agitation will stop.” “I must encourage the Nigerian state to toe the line of negotiation and stop heating the polity through the continued detention of Kanu. “It must toe the line of mediation and negotiation to resolve this unwarranted trial of Kanu,” he added. https://dailypost.ng/2024/06/22/biafra-agitation-a-spirit-beyond-nnamdi-kanu-ekpa-lawyer-idam/ 1 Share
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| Politics › If Deaf, Dumb Persons Are Recruited As Constables, Blame Nigerian Police, Not Us by Fareke(op): 8:27am On Jun 22, 2024 |
The PSC noted in a statement that the screening personnel should be held responsible if "deaf and dumb persons" and those with suicidal tendencies are recruited into the Force. The Police Service Commission (PSC) has revealed that during the recently concluded recruitment exercise of 10,000 constables, the physical and medical screenings of shortlisted candidates were handled by police personnel. The PSC noted in a statement that the screening personnel should be held responsible if "deaf and dumb persons" and those with suicidal tendencies are recruited into the Force. The Commission demanded that the police should provide verifiable evidence to prove the allegations peddled against it. While tackling the Nigerian Police Force, it warned against illegal peddling of rumors and abuse of court processes. According to the statement by its spokesperson z Ikechukwu Ani, “The allegation is akin to a case of giving a dog a bad name in order to hang it.” The service commission noted that it was concerned by the abuse of ethics and legal standards in the accusations made against it. It reads, “The Police Service Commission has watched with keen interest developments since it concluded and released the list of successful candidates for recruitment as Constables into the Nigeria Police Force. “The Commission is disturbed at the flagrant abuse of ethics, the Constitution and valid judgment of the apex court of the land. "The Commission wishes to state as follows; “a. That the release of the confidential letter sent to the Chairman of the Commission by the Inspector General of Police on alleged lapses in the recruitment exercise to the Media was a gross violation of the Public Service Rules with grave Consequences. "b. That since 2019, when a former Inspector General of Police hijacked the soft copy of an ongoing recruitment exercise and forcefully completed the exercise without the input of the Commission – the statutory body solely charged with such responsibility, the Commission has not been allowed to perform this constitutional duty. “c. The Commission has at every turn suffered several indignities in its attempt to perform functions provided to it by the Constitution even after the Supreme Court decided the matter in its favour. "d. That this show of brute force and intimidation by the Police and most recently inducements of hired writers to run down the Commission in the Media is a serious affront on the mandate of the Commission. “The Commission has studied the issues around this successfully concluded recruitment exercise and has come to the conclusion that even after the Supreme Court Judgment, the Police is reluctant to allow the Commission perform this constitutional assignment. "The Commission demands that the Police should provide verifiable evidence to prove the allegations peddled against it as it is obvious that it is a case of giving a dog a bad name in order to hang it. “It is important to state that due process was meticulously followed throughout the exercise and the Commission wishes to assert its prerogative to exercise full control over recruitments into the Nigeria Police Force. 'The Commission is also insisting that its list of successful candidates and that of the Police should be subjected to a forensic audit using the result of the JAMB computer based test. “The Commission however had, in its wisdom, invited relevant stakeholders into a Board for the recruitment exercise to ensure inclusiveness and transparency. "This magnanimity has since been misconstrued. It is relevant to state that the judgment and even the Constitution did not give the Police any role in the recruitment of any cadre of Officers into the Police Force. “It is unfortunate that the Police has attributed its obvious failure to protect lives and properties, and safeguard our nation from banditry and terrorism to bad recruitment. This claim is self indicting and provocative. "Since 2019 when the Police forcefully snatched the exercise from the Commission, they have gone ahead against the provisions of the law to Superintendent over the 2020 and 2021 exercises. It is the fraudulent Recruits they brought into the system during these exercises that are currently haunting the Nigeria Police Force. “The Commission is aware that this current brazen show of power by the Police with attendant spurious allegations is to perpetuate their stranglehold on the recruitment of Constables, even against the judgment of the Supreme Court. "The assertion of recruiting persons who will commit suicide and who are deaf and dumb is uncharitable and preposterous. During recruitment exercises, the physical and medical screenings are handled by Police personnel, so if deaf and dumb persons and those with suicidal tendencies are recruited into the Force, then the Police personnel who screened and recommended them should be held responsible. "The Commission is aware that all these distractions are calculated attempts by the Police to hold on, by all means, to the recruitment of Police Constables despite the Supreme Court Judgment. “The Commission wishes to appeal to Mr. President to protect it and rein in the Nigeria Police Force to respect the Constitutional Mandate of the Commission to recruit. The Nigeria Police Force is created to enforce the law and not to circumvent it in whatever guise. https://saharareporters.com/2024/06/22/if-deaf-dumb-persons-are-recruited-constables-blame-nigerian-police-not-us-police 1 Like
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| Crime › Osun FRSC Personnel Knocked Down At Roadblock by Fareke(op): 8:20am On Jun 22, 2024 |
By Francis Ezediuno A personnel of the Osun Sector Command of the Federal Road Safety Commission, FRSC, was on Friday injured in a hit and run accident. The accident, DAILY POST gathered, occurred near the Osun Government Secretariat, Abere, along the Gbongan-Osogbo Road. The driver of the vehicle was said to be at top speed when FRSC personnel at a roadblock waved him to stop. However, the driver travelling in a Lexus Jeep, did not stop and it was reported that he hit the FRSC officer and dragged him along the road until the victim fell off the vehicle. When contacted, the Osun FRSC Sector Commander, Inyang Umoh, confirmed the incident. Umoh revealed that the injured officer was in stable condition. "The officer is in stable condition. We are making efforts to get the driver of the vehicle. He has not been arrested yet,” he stated. https://dailypost.ng/2024/06/22/osun-frsc-personnel-knocked-down-at-roadblock/
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| Foreign Affairs › Israel Army Spokesman Says Hamas Can't Be Eliminated by Fareke(op): 9:55pm On Jun 19, 2024 |
More than eight months of war, sparked by Hamas's unprecedented October 7 attack on Israel, have failed to oust the Islamist militants from Gaza but have brought widespread devastation. "To say that we are going to make Hamas disappear is to throw sand in people's eyes. If we don't provide an alternative, in the end, we will have Hamas," Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari told Israel's Channel 13 broadcaster. "Hamas is an ideology, we cannot eliminate an ideology." His comments were quickly rebuffed by the office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, whose cabinet has stated its Gaza offensive will not end until Hamas is defeated. "The political and security cabinet headed by Prime Minister Netanyahu defined as one of the goals of the war the destruction of Hamas' military and governmental capabilities," his office said in a statement. "The IDF is of course committed to this." In a separate statement on its Telegram channel, the military clarified that Hagari had addressed Hamas "as an ideology... and his statements were clear and explicit". "Any other claim is taking the statement out of context." The October 7 attack that triggered the war resulted in the deaths of 1,194 people in Israel, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on Israeli official figures. The militants also seized 251 hostages. Of these, 116 remain in Gaza, although the army says 41 are dead. Israel's retaliatory offensive aimed at eliminating Hamas has killed at least 37,396 people in Gaza, also mostly civilians, according to the Hamas-run territory's health ministry. https://www.rfi.fr/en/middle-east/20240619-israel-army-spokesman-says-hamas-can-t-be-defeated-as-an-ideology
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| Politics › Peter Obi, Other Critics Of New Presidential Aircraft Want Tinubu’s Plane To Cra by Fareke(op): 9:40pm On Jun 18, 2024 |
The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has alleged that Peter Obi, a former Labour Party presidential candidate and other critics against moves to buy new presidential aircraft want President Bola Tinubu to crash. A Malawi Defence Force aircraft carrying the country’s Vice President, Dr. Saulos Klaus Chilima and nine others, recently crashed, killing everyone on board. In May, Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and others were killed in a helicopter crash in mountainous terrain near the Azerbaijan border. MURIC in a statement signed by its Executive Director, Prof. Ishaq Akintola, accused Peter Obi, of nursing evil intentions for trying to stop the government from acquiring new aircraft for the presidential fleet. The group alleged that Peter Obi's body language since the declaration of the results of the 2023 presidential elections had exposed him as a bitter politician and a bad loser who cannot come to terms with the reality of his defeat. MURIC described Peter Obi as a “Trumpist” who will go to any length to bring disaster to his perceived political enemies. The group called on National Assembly to ignore the comments made by Obi and other critics, stating that Nigeria should buy new presidential aircraft to avoid a national calamity. The statement reads in part, "The presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, yesterday, Monday 17th June, 2024 chided the Federal Government (FG) for planning to purchase new aircraft for the presidency. "We have no iota of doubt that Peter Obi is shedding crocodile tears. His interest is not the improvement of Nigeria's economic situation or that of the common man but to bring disaster to the presidency. Peter Obi nurses evil intentions. "Peter Obi's body language since the declaration of the results of the 2023 presidential elections has exposed him as a bitter politician and a bad loser who cannot come to terms with the reality of his defeat. Obi is a Trumpist. He will go to any length to bring disaster to his perceived political enemies. "Little wonder, therefore, that Obi is yet to condemn his supporters for calling for a military coup months after their treasonable utterances As far as Obi and other irrational critics are concerned, they wish what happened to the Iranian President Raisi recently and the Malawian vice president last week should happen in Nigeria. God forbid! "How many times do we have to drum it to the ears of this far right, ultra nationalist opposition cartel that the presidential jets are already worn out? They have become rickety, risky and unserviceable. They have broken down so many times during trips. "For instance, President Tinubu had to continue his journey on a commercial plane very recently after two presidential jets broke down simultaneously. "Also on 7th May, 2024, Vice President Kazim Shettima had to shelve a trip to the United States for the US-Africa Business Summit when the presidential jet developed a fault one hour after take-off. "Is this not scary enough? What does Peter Obi and his co-travellers want? Yet we have no scintilla of doubt that this set of desperate opposition will be the first to send hypocritical condolence messages if their serpentine wishes for the president or his vice become fait accompli. "But it is the duty of patriotic and compos mentis Nigerians to ensure that no such disaster occurs.” It noted that “former President Muhammadu Buhari visited 43 countries in his eight years as president”. It said, “On the 2015 US trip alone, he attracted N2.7 trillion investments to Nigeria. "In like manner, President Tinubu secured a fresh $250 million investment in Nigeria and another $100 million in a waste-to-wealth industrial facility in Lagos state during his recent trip to the Hague in May 2024. It is a globalized world. We cannot do it alone. "That is why we cannot afford to lock up our leaders and restrict their movements to the nation's borders as a result of lacking airworthy jets. “They must go out to meet the world. Interpersonal interactions are by far more effective and more result-oriented than interaction via remote telephone discussions. “We must not lock up Nigeria because we have economic problems. Interaction with the international community is vital for solving those problems and for general technological breakthrough.” https://saharareporters.com/2024/06/18/peter-obi-other-critics-new-presidential-aircraft-want-tinubus-plane-crash-claims-muric
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| Politics › Nigeria Needs Sacrificing Citizens To Progress – Tinubu by Fareke(op): 7:04am On Jun 17, 2024 |
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu Sunday said Nigeria needs sacrificing citizens to fulfil the dreams of its founding fathers.https://dailytrust.com/nigeria-needs-sacrificing-citizens-to-progress-tinubu/ 4 Likes
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| Politics › Kwara Holds LG Election September 21 by Fareke(op): 12:17pm On Jun 16, 2024 |
By Tunde Oyekola The Kwara state Independent Electoral Commission on Sunday released the timetable for the state’s local government elections scheduled for September 21,2024.https://punchng.com/kwara-holds-lg-election-september-21/?amp 2 Likes
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