N80.2billion Alleged Fraud: Court Insists on Yahya Bello’s Appearance for Arraignment

Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court, Maitama, Abuja on Friday, May 10, insisted on the physical appearance of the former governor of Kogi State, Mr Yahaya Adoza Bello for arraignment before any of his applications can be entertained by the court.

The judge further held that, Bello, who is facing prosecution by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC on an alleged N80.2billion fraud, is acting in disrespect and contempt of the court by resisting lawful arraignment and as such lacks any entitlement for his applications to be heard by the same court.

Justice Nwite made the ruling following applications of Bello’s lawyer, Abdulwahab Mohammed, SAN on April 23, 2024 for the revocation of the arrest warrant issued by the court on the former governor and the determination of the court’s jurisdiction in entertaining the trial as well as the preliminary objection for the enforcement of Bello’s fundamental human rights as ruled by Kogi State High Court, Lokoja.

Prosecution counsel, Kemi Pinhero, SAN, had at the last sitting of the court, responded that entertaining the applications without arraignment of the defendant was improper in the administration of criminal justice and tantamount to putting the cart before the horse.

Ruling on the matter on Friday, Justice Nwite held that any party that disrespects the court is not entitled to his prayers to be heard by the same court. “Yahaya Bello is acting in disobedience of the court. Anyone in contempt of the court is not entitled to be heard. The defendant should make himself available. He ought to make himself available in court. The defendant is taking this court for granted. The application of the defendant cannot be heard unless he is present in court,” he said.

The defence counsel responded to the ruling by praying for a stay of proceeding in the trial in the manner he claimed the Kogi State High Court, Lokoja had done pending the determination of EFCC’s appeal against the contempt proceeding initiated by Bello against EFCC’s Executive Chairman, Mr Ola Olukoyede. “We have filed a contempt proceeding against the EFCC Chairman, which has been challenged in the Appeal Court. We are applying that this court should wait for the outcome of the appeal hence the Appeal Court is a superior court,” he said.

In response, lead prosecution counsel on Friday, Rotimi Oyedepo, SAN took umbrage at the defence team’s prayer for a stay of proceedings, stating that such was at variance with the provisions of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015.

“My Lord did not mince words in affirming the sanctity of the court and its hallowed temple. If anyone feels that because he has attained a certain level in the society and begins to treat the court with contempt, that is a master key and flood gates to anarchy.

“I expected my learned counsel to thread the path of honour and clearly show that his client should not treat his Lordship and the court with disdain. His Lordship’s ruling clearly forbids entertaining applications from the defendant. My Lordship should not entertain the application until the defendant is here"

“A fugitive cannot be seeking redress in court. Section 40 of EFCC Act states that your Lordship shall not entertain any application for stay of execution. Section 306 of ACJA also states that stay of proceedings shall not be entertained”, he said.

Justice Nwite came down hard on the defence lawyer after listening to the submissions. “You are the one who is misleading the defendant. What is your fear? How many people have you heard that the EFCC killed? The EFCC is a law-abiding agency. Is your client the only past governor that has been invited by the EFCC? Bring him to court and I will entertain your applications", he said.

He adjourned the matter till June 13, 2024 for Bello’s arraignment.

The EFCC is prosecuting Yahaya Bello alongside his nephew Ali Bello, Dauda Suleiman and Abdulsalam Hudu on 19-count charges bordering on money laundering to the tune of N80, 246, 470,089.88k (Eight Billion, Two Hundred and Forty-six Million, Four Hundred and Seventy Thousand and Eighty-nine Naira, Eighty-eighty Kobo).

Visit www.efcc.gov.ng for more stories

Federal Government Should Suspend the Resumption of Train Operations for Now~ Justice Ori.

I am glad to hear there was inaugural train ride between Port Harcourt, Rivers State and Aba, Abia State on Tuesday 30 April, the Eastern Narrow Gauge Railway appears set for use by members of the public, but my concern is going by the experience of Monday March 28, 2022 where an Abuja–Kaduna train was attacked around Katari in Kaduna State where some passengers were kidnapped, train damaged and over eight people were reported dead, i will not support the resumption of train operations any where in the country because since then till today there have always been reports of insecurity, kidnapping, banditry and killing of innocent Nigerians even at worship centers. The government is actually making efforts on the fight against security but we need to do more.

While we expect good results on the efforts made so far in the fight against insecurity, i suggest we suspend the resumption of train operations for now for the safety of Nigerians and those that will ply the train to avoid a repeat of the Abuja-kaduna train incident.

If train operations must resume, then the Federal Government should:

i. Provide a central control point for the monitoring of train movement/operations.

ii. Should provide 24hrs functional CCTV.

iii. There should be armed security stationed at rail lines or armed security should be attached to each moving train.

iv. Train Operations should not resume with refurbished trains that will break down on the road for bandits to meet and attack us.

Nothing is too expensive to do provided it is aimed at safe guiding Nigerians because i believe the Federal Government value her citizens.

Justice Ori writing from Port Harcourt.

Dear Youth of Rivers State,

What Exactly Is Politics?

Politics can be a confusing and often misunderstood concept, but it is important that we all have a clear understanding of what it truly means. Unfortunately, many people have distorted the meaning of politics, using it as an excuse to engage in treachery, betrayal, and criminal activities. I want to clarify what politics is and what it is not.

First and foremost, when you receive conditions detrimental to the collective interest of Rivers State, refuse to sign. Refusing to honour agreements is not politics because you should have said no in the first place. What use is it to gain the whole world and lose your soul?

Instead, politics is about serving the people and working towards their collective interest. Refusing to sign agreements that go against the interest of the people is the right thing to do, and it is a crucial aspect of politics.

Embezzlement of public funds and diverting projects meant for the people into private funds is not politics. These acts are criminal and have nothing to do with politics.

Politics is about using public funds to improve the lives of the people and providing good governance to address their pains and meet their expectations.

Encouraging young people to carry ballot boxes and engage in intimidation and destructive acts is not politics.

Participating in political party activities to win elective positions or accepting appointments to improve the lives of the people is politics. Politics is about using your position to provide happiness for the people and creating a better future for them.

Furthermore, flaunting wealth that is taken from public funds when you have no history of running a private business is not politics.

It is important to lead with integrity, be credible, trustworthy, and have stable character to be a successful politician. Being Godfearing and leading with integrity is the foundation of politics.

As youth in Rivers State, it is important to not accept the mentorship of those teaching destructive tendencies and calling it politics. It is not politics. We need to be mindful of the true meaning of politics and reject those who distort its meaning.

As events in Rivers State continue to evolve, you will begin to see the true definition of politics. It is up to us to ensure that we hold our leaders accountable and demand good governance that serves the collective interest of Rivers State.

Let us work together to create a better future for the people of Rivers State.

Kind regards,

Sir (Dr) Leesi Gabriel Gborogbosi

Next Leader of Rivers State.

❤ Jesus Christ is Lord and Saviour.

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3 persons feared dead following a disagreement over who to collect revenue in a disputed land between Rumuekini and Aluu, Obio Akpor Local Government of Rivers State.
An eye witness report said arm men from Aluu attacked and killed 3 while 6 others sustained various degree of injuries.
Police have since been deployed to the area.

MAY THIS NEVER HAPPEN AGAIN.

My prayers are with the families who lost loved ones, vehicles and properties during Friday's inferno on the Eleme section of the East-West road.

The news of the tragic incident that occurred on Friday 26 April, is heart-wrenching to say the least. What a terrible loss for Rivers State, and one can only imagine the pain the families affected are going through at a time like this.

Every soul is precious, especially now when every family member is needed to support each other through our trying times as a Nation.

I commend His Excellency, Governor Siminalaye Fubara for his timely intervention and promise of necessary attention from the state government for families affected in the fire incident.

As we mourn the precious souls that were lost in the terrible accident, I pray that God will console the families who have lost their loved ones, and we receive healing as Rivers state, as this is a State and National tragedy.

GOV. FUBARA RECEIVES NGF CHAIR, ABDULRAHMAN ON CONDOLENCE VISIT.

...NGF in talks with downstream regulatory agency to strengthen laws on safety.

Rivers State Governor, His Excellency Sir Siminalayi Fubara GSSRS ,on Sunday at Government House, Port Harcourt, received the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors Forum, Alhaji Abdulrasaq Abdulrahman who called to commiserate with him and the people of Rivers State on the tanker fire Incidence that claimed about five lives and destroyed several vehicles on Friday.

Speaking to newsmen shortly after a closed door meeting, Governor Abdulrahman said it became necessary to sympathize with the state and the people for such an unfortunate disaster..

He noted that there is need to strengthen regulations in the downstream sector in terms of health and safety.

The NGF Chairman emphasised that he has been in talks with the head of the downstream agency in order to review some of the laws, adding that there will be engagement between the downstream regulatory agency and state agencies to streamline issues of health and safety.

Abdulrahman also pointed out that Rivers State tanker fire incident came after the CNG fire in Ogun State and lamented the loss of lives and property in both incidents.

He restated that as Nigeria relies on virtual pipelines for movement of petroleum products, there is need to strengthen regulations in the sector, as it is equally necessary to improve and expand pipelines network for transportation of petroleum products.

Justice Orinews

The Carnage Must Stop on the East-West Road.

The night of Friday 26 April 2024, was a tragic night on East-West Road, particularly the Eleme-Onne section. As we have seen too often, preventable death and destruction have occurred yet again. This statement was issued by Sir (Dr) Leesi Gborogbosi, a prominent Son of Rivers State.

Sir (Dr) Gborogbosi expressed his deep sadness that the death and destruction of our people have become a recurring decimal. He emphasized that our people cannot continue to contribute to the economy of this nation and receive nothing but death in return. The sacrifice paid is too high.

The Federal Government must expedite the completion of the Eleme-Onne section of the East-West Road. In the meantime, the contractors working on the road must immediately make the affected areas motorable. This is a federal road. However, Governor Fubara must exercise his rights as a Governor. Sir (Dr) Gborogbosi questioned why tankers are allowed to ply on a deplorable and congested road at that time of night. The Governor must enforce the laws of Rivers State.

Sir (Dr) Gborogbosi has demanded that the State Government and Federal Government immediately pay compensation to the families of the deceased and those who unnecessarily lost their properties. All dimensions of political rascality hindering good governance must stop. The people will no longer pay the supreme sacrifice for poor governance in Rivers State. It is sad enough that people are experiencing widespread hunger and poverty. Now, they are paying with their lives. Why are fire stations and trucks not working?

Our hearts go out to everyone who lost their loved ones and property. Sir (Dr) Gborogbosi prays that God Almighty gives strength to their families. We must all come together to ensure that our roads are safe for everyone. The carnage must stop.

Sir (Dr) Leesi Gborogbosi

Next Leader of Rivers State.

Governor Siminalayi Fubara accompanied by Rivers State Commissioner of Police,CP Olatunji Disu and Director of State Security Service on Saturday 27h April,2024 visited the scene of the fire incident along Eleme East -West road close to Indorama company .

Addressing Journalists at the scene of the incident,Governor Fubara said

“We are here to see for ourselves to get a first hand report of the incident that happened yesterday about 7:30pm that was caused by a tanker conveying PMS.

“I got the information through the MD of Indorama and I immediately alerted the security agencies to make sure they step in. From what we are seeing this morning it is not a pleasant situation.

“From what I am seeing a huge number of vehicles was destroyed,Souls lost .I have asked the security agencies to give us a full brief so that we can come into the situation fully by seeing how much we can support the families who are bereaved and how we can cushion the loss which is no fault of theirs.

“We all know the situation of this road. Is really really unfortunate .Most of our people when plying this road should ply with caution .I believe strongly that this situation would have been avoided if the motorists have behaved properly.

“It is late.This is situation we find ourselves.We will see how much we can control it”.

Following Junior Pope's Tragic Death, Veteran Nollywood Actress, Ini Edo has called for the total overhauling of the movie industry system with practical rules and regulations that caters to everyone in cases of emergencies. According to her, Junior Pope did not have to sacrifice his life for nollywood to realize the need for a long and much needed regulatory structure that would safeguard an entire production. Overhauling will define what is needed for movie productions.

RIVERS ASSEMBLY OVERRIDES GOVERNOR FUBARA'S ASSENT, PASSES LOCAL GOVERNMENT (AMENDMENT) BILL

... Screens and Confirms Assembly Service Commission Chairman and Members

The Rivers State House of Assembly, on Monday at its 159th Legislative Sitting, has passed the Rivers State Local Government (Amendment) Bill into Law by overriding the assent of the Governor.

Recall that on the 13th of March, 2024 the House passed the Local Government (Amendment) Bill and forwarded same to Governor Siminialayi Fubara for assent, which the Governor declined.

Determined to perform its Constitutional duties, the Bill was represented by the Majority Leader, Hon. Major Jack and debated upon by Members.

Thereafter, the House in accordance with the provisions of Section 100(5) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as altered, which empowers the House to override the Governor, where he withholds his assent; the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Martin Amaewhule put the question, and with a two-third majority votes the House agreed to override the Governor and passed the Bill into Law.

In another development, the House screened and confirmed nominees for the position of Chairman and Members of the Assembly Service Commission. Those screened and confirmed were Barr. Sampson Worlu as Chairman, Hon. Abinye Blessing Pepple, Mrs Blessing Belema Derefaka, Mr.Gbaranen Robinson and Madam Dorcas Amos as Members.

Recall that on the 22nd of March, 2024 the House passed the Rivers State Assembly Service Commission(Amendment) Bill into Law, wherein the House donated back to itself the power to appoint the Chairman and Members of the Assembly Service Commission.

On a sad note, the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Amaewhule announced the demise of Mr. Lucky Amadi, the husband of the honorable Member for Obio/Akpor Constituency II, Hon. Emilia Lucky Amadi, and stated that Members would pay a condolence visit to their Colleague.

Signed

Martins Wachukwu

S. A. Media Aide To The Speaker, Rivers State House of Assembly

April, 22, 2024

JAMB sanctions officials over harassment of Hijab-wearing candidate.

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board on Sunday announced that it has sanctioned some officials over the harassment of a female Hijab-wearing candidate.

The female candidate who sat her Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination at the Bafuto Institute, Ile-Iwe Bus Stop, Ejigbo, Lagos was said to have been asked to remove her headcover during the accreditation process before being allowed into the examination hall.

Addressing the issue in a statement signed by the Head of Public Affairs of the Board, Dr. Fabian Benjamin, the Board noted that it deeply regretted the incident.

It said on investigation, it discovered that the incident or others in the past were not linked to any of its examination guidelines but rather a product of the misplaced priority of some of the Board’s accredited partners or officials who claimed ignorance of the its guidelines on accreditation.

The statement read, “This situation was instantly addressed by a senior official of the Board at the center and the candidate in question was allowed in after the usual checks with her hijab.

"However, since ignorance of the law is not an excuse, the officials have been appropriately sanctioned to serve as a deterrent to others, who might wish to toe the same line going forward.

“It is worthy of note that the Board, as a national institution, has no policy barring candidates from sporting the religious paraphernalia peculiar to their religious persuasions as these are the facts of everyday life in Nigeria, which everyone should have been familiar with by now.”

Furthermore, the Board assured the general public that the issue would be properly investigated as to prevent a recurrence.

“The Board is committed to the discharge of its statutory role of ensuring that suitably qualified candidates are selected for admission into the nation’s tertiary institutions and would not allow anything or anyone to detract it from the pursuit of this noble goal,” it reiterated.

Meanwhile, the conduct of 2024 UTME, which commenced on Friday, 19th April 2024, has been marred with reports of technical glitches as over 1.2 million candidates would have successfully taken the examination by Monday, 22nd April 2024.

The Ondo State Commissioner for Health, Dr Banji Ajaka, was beaten to the point of unconsciousness during the governorship primary of the All Progressives Congress, held on Saturday in the State. Orinews gathered that trouble started when the commissioner allegedly failed to release the result sheet of the election in the unit he was holding to members of his party who were curious to know the results of the election in the unit. The angry party members who attacked the commissioner, were said to be loyalists of one of the governorship aspirants in the state.

A source narrated that Akaka was fingered by the electoral officer at the polling unit for holding the results sheet, keeping it away from the voters (party members).

Vera Anyim, the Dunamis member whose testimony sparked reaction is in Port Harcourt at Portland Resorts. She was invited by the Hotel Management to enjoy life in all expenses paid trip.
People of minds are have started visiting the hotel for solidarity for Madam Vera.
Source: Justice Orinews.

Cubana Chief Priest Pleads Not Guilty, Granted ₦10m Bail.

Popular Instagram celebrity Pascal Okechukwu also known as Cubana Chief Priest has pleaded not guilty for alleged naira abuse.

He pleaded not guilty to the three-count charge filed against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

The socialite was arraigned at the Federal High Court, Lagos before Justice Kehinde Ogundare on Wednesday.

The anti-graft commission filed a three-count charge against Cubana Chief Priest accused of abusing the naira at a social event, an act said to be contrary to the provisions of the Central Bank Act of 2007.

After he pleaded not guilty, the court granted him bail in the sum of ₦10m with two responsible sureties in like sum who must be gainfully employed with the federal or state government and not less than grade level 16.

The sureties are to have landed property and the document must be verified by the court.

Cubana Chief Priest is also to submit his travel passport to the custody of the court.

The bail conditions must be perfected within seven days but in the meantime he was released to his lawyer who must give an undertaken to produce him later. Failure to do so, he will be remanded in correctional facility.

Court Halts Rivers Assembly’s Move To Extend Local Government Officials’ Tenures.

The Rivers State High Court sitting in Port Harcourt has issued an interim injunction directing the maintenance of status quo following the move by the House of Assembly to extend the tenures of the elected local government councils’ officials.

The Assembly led by Martins Amaewhule had amidst the political crisis rocking Rivers amended the Local Government Law Number 5 of 2018 and other related matters.

Amaewhule, explained that the amendments of Section 9(2), (3) and (4)of the Principal Law was to empower the House of Assembly via a resolution to extend the tenure of elected chairmen and councilors, where it is considered impracticable to hold local government elections before the expiration of their three years in office.

But the court asked all the parties to maintain the status quo ante belum pending the hearing and determination of motion on notice for the interlocutory injunction.

The court presided over by G.N. Okonkwo also ordered that the claimant/applicant would enter into an undertaking to indemnify the defendants in the sum of N5million should the substantive case turned out to be frivolous.

The court fixed April 22, 2024 to hear the motion on notice for interlocutory injunction.

Okonkwo also issued an order of substituted service of the motion on notice for interlocutory injunction, originating summons and other subsequent processes on the defendants.

The orders were made following a suit filed by Executive Chairman, Opobo-Nkoro, Enyiada Cooky-Gam; Bonny, Anengi Claude-Wilcox; and five other elected council officials challenging the decision of the Amaewhule-led House of Assembly to extend the tenure of local government areas.

Also named as defendants in the suit are the Governor of Rivers State, the Government of Rivers State and the Attorney-General of Rivers State.

The claimants/applicants are praying the court for a declaration that under section 9(1) of the Rivers State Local Government Amendment Law number 5 of 2018 the tenure of office of the chairmen and members of the 23 local government councils of Rivers State is three years

A declaration that the tenure of office of the elected chairmen and members of the local government areas would expire on the 17th of June 2024 having commenced on the 18th of June 2021 when they were sworn in.

A declaration that the defendants cannot in any manner or form extend the tenure of office of the chairmen and members of the local government areas after the expiration of their tenure.

An order of perpetual injunction restraining the defendants from extending the tenure of office of the chairmen and members of the local government areas.

.An order of perpetual injunction restraining the 28th, 29th and 30th defendants (the Governor, the Government House and the Attorney-General) from giving effects to any purported extension of the tenure of the chairmen ans members of the local government areas.

They also prayed for an order of interlocutory injunction directing all the defendants to maintain the status quo by not elongating the three-year tenure of the chairmen and councilors.

The claimants further sought an order of interlocutory injunction restraining the defendants from extending the tenures of the chairmen and the councilors.

Fifty Women in Rivers State gets N500,000 each as business supports..

It was another great jubilation on Friday 11th April, 2024 as the beneficiaries of the Phase 1 of Chief Engr. Davidson Hope Igwe Seafarer Empowerment Training Program gets certificates of Seafarer. The certificate was issued to them by the sponsor Engr Davidson Hope Igwe, aka _Hope Marine_ in his Country home Onne in Eleme Local Government of Rivers State.

Recall, Hope Marine paid the Sum of N20 Million Naira to a Maritime Training Institute in Port Harcourt to train the 1st Batch of 21 Youths in Eleme Local Government.

During the presentation of certifications, the Philanthropist the Rivers born Philanthropist Engr Davidson Hope Igwe advised the beneficiaries to be of good conduct in the society as they are now fully qualified for any Maritime job in the world.

On their part, the beneficiaries thanked Engr Davidson Hope Igwe for his kind gestures of human Capital development in Eleme and the State at the large.

Women are not left out, as he pledged to gift 50 Women in the Local Government who are Traders N500,000 each to expand their businesses.

Engr Davidson Hope Igwe is a business mogul and a grass root politician.

RIVERS POLICE NEUTRALISE WANTED CRIME LORD PETER 'DADDY' CHUKWU


The Rivers State Police Command, in collaboration with operatives of the Intelligence Response Team and the Delta State Police Command, apprehended one Peter "Daddy" Chukwu at about 5 am on April 5, 2024, in Asaba, Delta State.


PROFILE

Peter ‘Daddy’ Chukwu, a.k.a Oboni, a native of Omoku in Rivers State, was a notorious gangster whose criminal enterprise was multi-faceted, bordering on cultism, kidnapping, murder, and assassination, among other crimes. He rose to prominence in 2017 when he was made the executioner-general of the Iceland cult group in the Mgbuoshimini community of Rivers State. This role was conferred on him by the ill-famed cultist and kidnap kingpin, Johnson Igwedibia, popularly known as ‘Don Waney’, to whom he was a fierce loyalist.


Johnson Igwedibia famously recognized as Don Waney, was a notorious cult figure who instilled fear in Rivers State. His demise came at the hands of a collaborative mission involving the Nigerian Army and the State Security Service in 2018, at the border between Rivers and Imo States.


MODUS OPERANDI

Peter Chukwu built a base of operation in Mgbuoshimini, a suburb in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area in Rivers State, from where he recruited an army of young men who carried out his whims to the letter. With a massive following of cultists behind him, he launched a syndicate that served as assassins for hire, armed robbers, and gun runners.

He always had a hit list that included persons who had offended or challenged him, those he considered a threat and those he had been paid to assassinate. Such was the nature of his villainous mind that at the mentioning of his name, people trembled.


WHY HE WAS DECLARED WANTED

As his acclaim grew, he became a menacing presence in the community and began wreaking havoc indiscriminately. On May 6, 2017, he murdered the secretary of the Rumueme Council of Chiefs, Chief Minikwu Chukwu, and one Jaja Optimist while they were gathering for a routine town meeting. Within the same month, he executed another community leader, Chief Mgbor.


He continued his onslaught on those he had earmarked for destruction, and on July 30, 2017, Baridule Cletus Dunle was shot dead, while on October 4, 2017, Godspower Aligbo and Dickson Gogo-Jaja had their lives snuffed out by his men.


On October 9, 2017, at about 3 am, he and his gang attacked the abattoir area of the Mgbuoshimini community and murdered 22 people in cold blood, burning some of their victims alive. This act caused the Police to declare him, and eight ( others wanted. Consequently, he fled the community and went into hiding. He, however, resurfaced in 2023 and began another reign of terror. He set up another base in Mgbuoshimini as his previous base had been demolished after the crises that followed the massacre he perpetrated in 2017.


On his return, he arrogated himself the position of chief adjudicator in the community and would frequently force people with disputes to appear before him. On one such occasion on January 2, 2023, he seized two residents of the community, Sunny Amadi and Victor Alabo, who he alleged had stolen phones. They were promptly brought before him, and subjected to torture through binding and severe beatings. He then proceeded to use a razor to chop off their ears.


Two days after the mutilation of the two men, on January 4, 2023, he invited Grace Asuquo to appear before him because he had received reports that she had stolen a phone. She did not honour his invitation for fear of his irrationality, which offended him. He commanded his boys to arrest her and bring her before him. When she was brought before him, he tortured her for a long time, eventually murdering her. He dumped her lifeless body in front of her father’s compound.


Peter ‘Daddy’ Chukwu was also complicit in assassinations for hire. His gang was contracted to assassinate one Victor Golor, and in two attempts on December 12, 2023, and January 6, 2024, they failed to exterminate the target. However, on the 6th of March 2024, they succeeded in detonating explosives at the target’s hotel after installing a digital Apple tracker in his Toyota Hilux truck. Such was his sophistication that he had a network of informants at his beck and call and used tracking devices to tail potential victims.


POLICE ACTION

‘Daddy’ became an item of deep interest to Tunji Disu, the current commissioner of police, Rivers State Police Command, when, on the 13th of January, he and his murderous band shot and killed the Community Development Council (CDC) Chairman of Mgbuoshimini, Ndidi Livingstone, as he was stepping out of the auditorium of Peculiar Faith Ministries, Rumueme after a church service. After the dastardly act, they sped off in a waiting black SUV which the police have now recovered.

The notorious gangster killed the CDC chairman because he collaborated with other stakeholders in establishing a local vigilante group known as OSPAC, aimed at safeguarding the community.


During a visit to the widow and family of the slain community leader, the Commissioner of Police, Rivers State, CP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, directed a nationwide manhunt for the killers. Thus, an extensive search for them began. The manhunt narrowed when investigations and intelligence revealed that Peter ‘Daddy’ Chukwu was the mastermind behind the killings.


After learning of the location of his hideout, on March 16, 2024, at about 1 a.m., operatives of a special task force of the Rivers State Police Command, comprising of the Intelligence Response Team (IRT) and operatives of the state command, attempted to arrest him. The suspect narrowly escaped by bursting through the ceiling and roofing sheets of the hotel, where he was cornered. He later jumped into a nearby compound and ran off, evading arrest.


In his scramble to escape, he left behind his personal effects, including a hit list containing names of his next victims and other vital documents and gadgets that gave the Police a clear picture of the extent of sophistication he operated with. This necessitated the urgency in arresting the notorious criminal.


Following his close shave with the authorities, he fled to Asaba in Delta State. He remained in hiding before returning briefly to Port Harcourt, where he boasted about his invincibility and the power of his charms. He returned to Delta, where he began plotting to kill the investigating police officers and to launch attacks on police facilities to free his arrested associates.


Undeterred by the notorious gangster's initial escape, on April 5, 2024, around 4 am, a coordinated team launched an assault on his hideout. The team, comprising the Rivers State Command Tactical Team and the Intelligence Response Team (IRT), advanced to Delta to locate the criminal's hideout. With support from the Delta State Commissioner of Police, operatives from the command joined the conclusive operation, resulting in the neutralisation of the suspect following a fierce operation.


He was tracked down and apprehended in Ibusa, Delta State, and found in a herbalist's home where he sought spiritual fortification. Upon realising the presence of security forces surrounding the premises, Peter Daddy Chukwu fiercely resisted and attempted to flee. He put up a fierce resistance, and in an attempt to escape, he was fatally wounded and succumbed to the injury before arriving at the hospital.


Efforts are currently in top gear to arrest all his associates and sponsors.

The police in Imo State said it has arrested Ibe Obasi, the owner of Our Guest Hotel, in Umulogho Obowo LGA of the State for the alleged murder of his staff identified as Ebuka.

Obasi and one military personnel were reported to have tortured Ebuka Nwaneri, a staff of the hospital, to death over a missing phone.

Sources said Nwaneri was accused of stealing the phone belonging to the military personnel who was a guest at the facility.

Nwaneri was reportedly tortured and locked up in the hotel’s generator room where he finally died.

In a statement on Sunday, Henry Okoye, police spokesperson in Imo, said the hotel owner has provided useful information that will assist in arresting two other fleeing “conspirators” at large.

“Operatives of Obowo Divisional Police Headquarters, have arrested the owner of ‘Our Guest House’, Umulogho, Obowo, Mr. Ibe Obasi, 38yrs, who was allegedly involved in the murder of a 25-year-old Ebuka Udemba, ‘m’, an indigene of Umuokpa in Obowo LGA of Imo State,” the statement reads.

“Preliminary investigations revealed that the victim was tortured and locked up inside the generator room of the said guest house by the suspect and two others at large, where he suffocated to death, on the accusation of stealing a customer’s handset.

POLICE PRESS RELEASE

Eid-el-Fitr Celebration: CP Tunji Disu Assures Sustained Effort At Improving Public Safety and Security

The Commissioner of Police, Rivers State Command, CP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, psc, congratulates the Muslim ummah in the state for the successful completion of this year's Ramadan fast and wishes all faithful a blissful Eid-el-Fitr celebration.

He calls on the good people of the state to use this period of celebration for sober reflection and to offer prayers for the peace and progress of the state and the nation at large.

While felicitating with all Muslims, the Commissioner of Police hereby calls on religious leaders, worshippers, and residents of the state to cooperate with the police and other security agencies. He assures residents that adequate security arrangements have been put in place to guarantee a hitch-free celebration and improve public safety.

Furthermore, the Commissioner of Police has directed all Area Commanders, Heads of Departments, and Divisional Police Officers to implement overt and covert security deployments throughout the state. These measures are aimed at safeguarding lives and properties, providing security coverage to all worship and recreational centers, and conducting raids on identified troubled spots. Additionally, all Police Divisions of the Command have been charged to activate their neighborhood policing beats.

Consequently, high visibility policing shall be maintained during and after the celebration. Police patrol vehicles have been strategically deployed on our highways, and government/private critical infrastructure shall be protected. Furthermore, all entry and exit routes into the state have been fortified.

The Commissioner of Police, therefore, urges the good people of the state to be peaceful and celebrate in moderation.

In case of any distress, members of the public are advised to call the following phone numbers:
- Control Room: 08032003514
- Public Response Unit: 08161355218

SP GRACE IRINGE-KOKO ANIPR
POLICE PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER,
RIVERS STATE COMMAND
09/04/2024

Without me Wike Wouldn't Have Become Governor, Mbu Joseph Recounts His Role In Wike’s Political Trajectory Unrewarded.

Retired Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) Mbu Joseph Mbu has expressed disappointment over what he perceives as the lack of recognition for his contributions to the political career of former Rivers State Governor and current FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike.

Speaking with Daily Trust on the political crisis ongoing in the state between Wike and his successor, Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Mbu, whose role during the 2014–2015 political crisis in Rivers State had often been described as controversial, stated that despite his efforts, especially during Wike’s political rise, he feels unappreciated, particularly by Wike himself.

Mbu recounted instances where he felt abandoned, such as when he was contesting his retirement and reached out to Wike for support, only to be ignored. He highlighted his close relationship with Wike, stating that he would have intervened in any personal issues the governor faced, but was disappointed when his calls went unanswered.

“Without me, he would not have become Governor, because I knew where to hit the government power,” he said.

Mbu also said that he has watched Governor Fubura and that, despite not knowing him, he can see that he is a thorough and sound person.

Federal Government Extends Eid El Fitir Public Holiday To Thursday.

Last week, it announced a two-day – Tuesday and Wednesday – holiday for the festivities.

However, the crescent was not sighted in Saudi Arabia on Tuesday, meaning the Eid celebration will take place on Wednesday, prompting the Federal Government to add an extra day to the already-declared public holiday.

"The Federal Government has approved Thursday 11th April 2024 as an additional public holiday to celebrate this year’s Eid-El-Fitr,” the Ministry of Interior Permanent Secretary Aishetu Gogo Ndayako said in an early Tuesday statement.

Orinews.

Greenland Cult Commander Escapes As Police Gundown His 2 Lieutenants In Rivers State.

The Rivers State Police Command in continous efforts to tackle cultism and other related crimes in the state on Monday April 8, 2024, deployed a team of police officers to the Ogbologbo community in Ahoada West Local Government Area to bring an end to the reign of terror of one Ikem ThankGod, popularly known as ‘General’ 2man, a Greenland Cult Commander terrorizing the LGA.

The Public Relations Officer of Rivers State Police Command,SP Grace Iringe Koko listed some of the nefarious activities of the Greenland Kingpin to include the shooting to death of Inspector Usang Ude on April 13, 2023.

Also murdered of four persons, namely, Henry Kirirka, Patience Henry, Abigail Victor, and Chigozie Okpo March 5,2024.

SP Koko said He also slaughtered one Samuel Philip without provocation and buried several persons alive, including Christmas Ede and Agode Gamany last month.

SP Koko said ” he carried out a lot of kidnapping activities within and outside the Ahoada West Local Government Area. His catalogue of criminal activities also includes armed robbery and vandalisation of valuable properties. He coordinates the deroofing of public buildings and the selling of the roofing sheets. He also constituted himself as an authority that approves social events within the Local Government Area. This has made him attack and disrupt weddings, burials, etc., which he did not approve of.

“During the operation, General 2man and his gang opened fire on the Police tactical team. Though he was able to evade arrest, his second-in-command, ThankGod Uchechi aka, ‘Pastor SP,’ and his third-in-command, ‘Western King’ Okpo Emenike were fatally wounded. Several gang members escaped with gunshot injuries, and two loaded AK-47 rifles and eight magazines were recovered from the gang. Concerted efforts are in top gear to bring General 2man and his fleeing gang members to justice and put an end to his reign of terror”.

Meanwhile CP Tunji Disu, the Commissioner of Police, at Rivers State Police Command has commended the tactical team for their efforts and reiteratesld his commitment to fighting crimes in the state.

CP Disu equally urged members of the public to feed the police with reliable information that could lead to the arrest of the fleeing suspects and other criminal elements in the State.

New Tariff: Full list of Port Harcourt Electricity ‘Band A’ areas

The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission, on Wednesday, approved a sharp increase in electricity tariffs for customers classified under Band A. Some customers of Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company, PHEDC, will be affected by the new electricity tariff.

Customers in this category will now be charged N225 per kilowatt-hour (KW/h). It is a significant rise from the previous rate of N66 electricity tariff.

Below are the Band A areas of PHEDC, affected by the new tariff:
1. EMOHUA Ahoada Rumuji Community, Ruakwunde Community, Emohua Cummunity, Oduoha Community, Ogbakiri Community.
2. ABONEMA Ahoada Abonnema, Degema
3. TRANS AMADI PH Trans Amadi Industrial Lay Out, Trans Amadi Gardens, Ordinance Road, Danjuma Drive.
4. 18. BOROKIRI PH Eastern By-Pass Road, 2nd &3rd Avenues, PHED Hqtrs, Borokiri Sand field, Aggrey road, Harold Wilson road, Nigerian Navy Sch., Moscow road.
5. 5. TRANS AMADI PH Pans Amadi Road, Ordince Road, Danjuma Drive, Somitel, Total Gospel, Doxa Road, Rivoc road, Peter Odili Road
6. RSPUB 1 PH Redeem Road, Slaughter Road, Rivoc Road,
7. RSPUB 1 PH Alcon Road, Nvuigwe,Woji Estate
9. TRANS AMADI PH Ordinance, Elf/ Total road, Rivoc road, Redeem road, Jesty and Jenny street, J&C Street, Nka street, Trans Amadi road
10. RSPUB 1 PH YKC area, Woji Village area, Ogbatai area.
11. SECRETARIAT PH Old GRA, PHED Hqtrs. Abana, William Jumbo,
12. UTC PH Kidney Island
13. UTC PH Old GRA, Forces Avenue, Udi Street, Bauchi Street, BMH
14. UTC PH SPAR Shopping Mall, Parts of Old GRA.,Industry road, reclamation road, Azikwe road, Old G.R.A-PH club axis
15.OYIGBO PH Aba-Port Harcourt Road, Boskel Road, Obigbo West, School-to-Land
16. REFINERY LINE 1 PH Rumukwurushi, Aweto Guest House, Atali, Igwuruta Road, Rumuibekwe-Bori road, Ahoada road, Ogbonda, Aba-Road, Eleme Junction, Eneka, New-layout Eneka road, Igwuruta-Ali,
17. RUMUOLA PH Part of Stadium Road, Orazi area, Part of Rumuola Road, GRA 2&3, Tombia street, Mummy B road, Oroazi, Madenla Car Wash, Tombia Ext., Psychiatric road, Ohiamini
18. OYIGBO PH Aba-Port Harcourt Road, Elelenwo Community, Boskel Road
19. AKANI PH Old Aba Road, Part of Woji, Rumuibekwe Extension, Victory Estate Elelenwo, Rumuogba, Mr. Sweet, Enugu Street, Victory Estate, Rumuobiakani.
20. RSTV PH Elelenwo Sandfill, Nvuigwe community
21. RAINBOW PH Hotel Presidential, Le Meridian Hotel, NDDC Office, Part of GRA 2&3, Parts of Stadium Road, Part of Mummy B Road, New G.R.A, Ordinance road, Mother Cat, Birabi Street-G.R.A
22. ONNE PH Eleme, Alito, Akpajo, Onne NPA, IIPA

IT IS AN ABUSE TO REDEMPTION FOR A CHRISTIAN TO JOIN OCCULT~ Ibiyeomie.

The Presiding Pastor of Salvation Ministries, Pastor David Ibiyeomie has condemned the idea of Christian faithfuls joining occult groups for power. The respected Clergy Man speaking on Sunday 31st March, 2024 at the Headquarters of the church in GRA, Port Harcourt on the Easter message tittled 'The Power Of His Resurrection' said Redemption is Abused when Christians join Occult groups. He said Christianity is about Demonstration of Power, Christians leaving Christianity to join occult is an example of the President of a Nation asking a Local Government Chairman for Help which he said is abnormal.

Pastor Ibiyeomie who said Resurrection is the reason for Christianity advised Christians to build strong faith in God as they are powerful following the Resurrection of Jesus Christ from dead.

Again, Rivers Assembly threatens to Impeach Governor Fubara.

The Rivers State House of Assembly, on Saturday, said it will not hesitate to impeach the state governor, Siminalayi Fubara, if it becomes the last resort to uphold the Constitution.

This is as the 27 lawmakers loyal to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, took a swipe at the former Rivers State Peoples Democratic Party Presidential Campaign Council led by Dr Abiye Sekibo over its recent attack on Wike.

Speaker of the House, Martin Amaewhule, who stated this at a media briefing in Port Harcourt on Saturday, was flanked by 26 of his colleagues.

Details later…

Some Communities in Ikwerre petition EFCC, demands probe on funds spent on constituency project.

Some communities, under the aegis of Concerned Citizens of Ikwere/Emohua Federal Constituency in Rivers State, have written to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offence Commission, and Physical Responsibility Commission, to probe the implementation of the 2024 constituency projects in their area.

The residents in the two local government areas that make up the Emohua/Ikwerre Federal Constituency said the move was aimed at ending the era where lawmakers failed to implement projects captured in the budget and funds fully released.

The leader of the group, Bethel-Chimzie Okwu, who disclosed this while speaking at the sensitisation in Igwuruta, Ikwerre, on Thursday, said the process started three months ago across the 27 wards of the constituency.

He explained that the constituency had often been plagued with the non-execution of projects meant for its people as approved, adding that monies meant for constituency projects had always been diverted.

He said the body had written to the EFCC, ICPC, and PRC to ensure that monies budgeted and released for the constituency projects were not diverted, adding that they would ensure that all the projects in the budgets were fully implemented.

He added, “There are several projects that have not been executed. For example, in the 2019 budget, there was a particular amount of money allocated for the purchase of speed boats for people in the Ikwerre-Emohua Federal Constituency; that was about N70m that we saw in the budget.

"We went around looking for who the engines were bought for, who were supposed to be fishermen, but we could not find anybody. So, that is why we are saying that this time round, we want to make sure any project that is coming we will identify who it was given to, we will know who benefitted.”

"We have already set in motion everything that will happen if, by the end of this year, nothing happens. The EFCC, ICPC, and Physical Responsibility Commission are aware and we have already told them that their core mandate is to ensure investigations and track up Federal Government projects across the country.”

25 Inmates who have spent 7-15 years at the Port Harcourt correctional center were granted pardon today by Justice Simon Amadi, the Chief Justice of Rivers State during his jail delivery service in the State. Orinews reports that the Chief Justice advised the pardoned inmates to turn a leave, go back to the society to become good citizens and not bad, "dont go back to your old ways, no gain in cultism". Justice S.C Amadi also revealed that the correctional centers are for corrections and not a place of abandonment.

The Martin Amaewhule-led Rivers State House of Assembly has again overruled the State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and enacted the Rivers State House of Assembly Service Commission Law.

The House took the decision today after holding an impromptu sitting.

Recall that in January, the House voted to override the decision of the Governor not to approve four bills earlier passed by the Assembly. The governor had withheld his assent stating that such amendments would create confusion and breach constituted laws.

The House relying on Section 100 subsection 5 had said the assent of the governor was not needed for the bills to be passed into law. They include the Rivers State Local Government Law; Rivers State Traditional Rulers’ Law; Rivers State Advertisement and Use of State-owned Property Prohibition (Repeal) Law and Rivers State House of Assembly Fund Management Law.

POLICE ARREST FOUR FOR FAKING KIDNAP, DEMANDING FIVE MILLION NAIRA RANSOM

Detectives of the Lagos States Police Command have arrested Margret Itodo ‘f’ aged 25, Agnes Ogbeh ‘f’ aged 23, Esther Anyanwu ‘f’ aged 24 and Anthony Chinakwe ‘m’ aged 24 for faking the kidnap of Agnes Ogbeh.

On March 19, 2024, Agnes Ogbeh, resident in Akure, had travelled to Lagos and was reportedly kidnapped in Lagos. The family back in Akure received a video showing Agnes and one other tied, gagged, and groaning with blood droplets around them. The ‘kidnappers’ demanded the sum of Five Million Naira for the release of Agnes.

Upon receipt of the complaint, detectives of the Command commenced a discreet and diligent investigation into the matter. The hideout was located where Agnes, the other lady in the video and two others were found living freely together.

Further investigations revealed that Margaret Itodo is a professional make-up artist who was hired to make the video look real. All four have made confessional statements and are to be arraigned at the conclusion of investigation.

The Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Adegoke Fayoade, mni while commending the detectives for a timely investigation calls on Lagosians to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity around them to the nearest security agency.

SP BENJAMIN HUNDEYIN, anipr, mipra
POLICE PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER
LAGOS STATE COMMAND
IKEJA

MARCH 22, 2024.

I got over N1bn for constituency projects – Senator Ned Nwoko.

The senator representing Delta North. Senatorial District, Ned Nwoko, has claimed that he received more than N1 billion for constituency projects in the 2024 budget.

Nwoko corroborated Senator Ali Ndume’s claims that the allocation of resources to the legislators often varies based on the magnitude of their constituency projects, indicating that it’s not uncommon for some, including himself, to receive larger amounts.

"Senators get what they lobby for, not because they have the right to it. Everybody just goes about doing what they can do for their constituencies and senatorial districts.

“A better approach would have been for senatorial uniformity. So if they say that everyone should get about N1 billion, be it. But this way, you rely on your weight and contacts to see what you can get for your people.

"We are not talking about money for the senators. This is for projects within our senatorial districts. If you have road, water, or training programmes, all should aggregate to a particular amount,” the lawmaker revealed in a podcast released on Saturday.

Asked if he got as much as N1 billion in allocation, the senator replied, “Of course, I did. That’s why I am who I am. But these are projects for my people.”

Nwoko’s revelation is coming amid the recent controversy of budget padding alleged by Senator Abdul Ningi of the 2024 budget with an extra N3.7 trillion, a fund not tied to any extra project.

While the Red Chamber has denied any wrongdoing, some senators have come out to clarify the amount allocated to them for constituency projects in their various districts.

In reaction to the developments, Nwoko made it clear that the allocated funds are for financing projects, not for personal reimbursement of individual senators.