Crime / Two Policemen Arrested As Car Dealer Dies In Custody by ogododo: 8:46am |
The family of a car dealer in the Ikorodu area of Lagos, Olashile Oduga, has demanded justice after he was allegedly tortured to death by officers at the Ikota Police Post. The deceased’s elder sister, Abisola Bakare, who spoke on behalf of the family in an interview with Sunday PUNCH, said they learned of Oduga’s death on Wednesday after she contacted the manager of the estate where he lived in the Chevron area of Ajah. She said, “It was my brother’s pregnant wife who called me on Wednesday afternoon, saying her husband’s line had been unreachable since Tuesday afternoon. So, I called the estate manager where he lived and asked him to check on him to find out why his phone wasn’t going through. “It was the estate manager who then informed us that some policemen from the Ikota Police Post had arrested him on Tuesday afternoon.” Sweet poison: How Local Producers Mix Detergent, Soda With Fufu To Maximise Profit| Punch0:00 / 0:00 She explained that the estate manager told her that Oduga had a misunderstanding with his neighbour, Stasia Nora, which escalated into a fight. After the altercation, the woman went to the police post and brought officers to arrest Oduga. Bakare said the estate manager visited the Ikota Police Post that same Tuesday after Oduga’s arrest, but the officers denied him access to see her brother. “So, I followed the estate manager to the police post on Wednesday, along with my sisters. When we arrived, I mentioned my brother’s name and told them we were informed of his arrest and detention at the post. “But the officers on duty denied having any record of him. The estate manager confronted them, insisting that Oduga was present when their men took my brother away. It was at that moment that one of the officers called the Investigating Police Officer of the post, Modinat Alaka, who directed us to Ajah Police Station because the case had been transferred there,” Bakare narrated. She explained that upon arriving at the station, she found several senior officers in one of the offices discussing the matter. “They kept telling me, ‘Madam, sorry. Take it easy.’ I asked them, ‘Sorry for what?’ and demanded my brother’s release. Then, to my shock, the Ikota police IPO started crying. “The Divisional Police Officer of Ajah Police Station shouted at her, ordering her to speak before he lost his temper. It was then that she told me my brother was dead,” Bakare lamented. In disbelief, she asked how it happened, but Alaka claimed that when they brought Oduga into custody, he appeared very weak, so they rushed him to Epe General Hospital, where he was pronounced. “I asked if they had any video evidence showing him being taken to the hospital, but she said they had forgotten to take pictures. I demanded to see his body, and they told me it had been deposited at the Epe mortuary. “The officers kept begging me, but I left the station in sorrow that Wednesday night,” she added. Bakare said she couldn’t hold back the pain and drove straight to the Force Criminal Investigation Department, Alagbon at midnight to make an official complaint before returning home. Sweet poison: How Local Producers Mix Detergent, Soda With Fufu To Maximise Profit| Punch0:06 / 1:01 She explained that the estate manager told her that Oduga had a misunderstanding with his neighbour, Stasia Nora, which escalated into a fight. After the altercation, the woman went to the police post and brought officers to arrest Oduga. Bakare said the estate manager visited the Ikota Police Post that same Tuesday after Oduga’s arrest, but the officers denied him access to see her brother. “So, I followed the estate manager to the police post on Wednesday, along with my sisters. When we arrived, I mentioned my brother’s name and told them we were informed of his arrest and detention at the post. “But the officers on duty denied having any record of him. The estate manager confronted them, insisting that Oduga was present when their men took my brother away. It was at that moment that one of the officers called the Investigating Police Officer of the post, Modinat Alaka, who directed us to Ajah Police Station because the case had been transferred there,” Bakare narrated. She explained that upon arriving at the station, she found several senior officers in one of the offices discussing the matter. “They kept telling me, ‘Madam, sorry. Take it easy.’ I asked them, ‘Sorry for what?’ and demanded my brother’s release. Then, to my shock, the Ikota police IPO started crying. “The Divisional Police Officer of Ajah Police Station shouted at her, ordering her to speak before he lost his temper. It was then that she told me my brother was dead,” Bakare lamented. In disbelief, she asked how it happened, but Alaka claimed that when they brought Oduga into custody, he appeared very weak, so they rushed him to Epe General Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. “I asked if they had any video evidence showing him being taken to the hospital, but she said they had forgotten to take pictures. I demanded to see his body, and they told me it had been deposited at the Epe mortuary. “The officers kept begging me, but I left the station in sorrow that Wednesday night,” she added. Bakare said she couldn’t hold back the pain and drove straight to the Force Criminal Investigation Department, Alagbon at midnight to make an official complaint before returning home. Related News PICTORIAL: Sanwo-Olu unveils newly rehabilitated Lagos road NAF sanctions personnel involved in Delta clash with policemen Fire guts seven-storey building in Lagos She said she received a call on Thursday morning, summoning her to the Ajah Police Station. “When I arrived, the officers started begging again. As I was pressing for answers, some officers from Panti arrived and demanded that the case be transferred to their office. “They arrested the woman who fought with my brother and two policemen involved in his arrest. I followed them all to Panti that Thursday,” she stated. At Panti, Bakare said a Chief Superintendent of Police, Abdullahi Lateef, questioned the officers who arrested Oduga, and they claimed to have detained him because he injured the woman’s hand during the fight. “Lateef then asked if there was any bloodstain or serious injury. They admitted that there was none, only that one of the woman’s fingernails had been removed. “He asked if she had any visible wounds or bruises, and they said no. He then demanded to know why they had detained my brother in the first place, but the officers could not answer. “As a result, he ordered their detention along with the woman who fought with my brother,” Bakare explained. She added that Lateef instructed them to visit the mortuary to inspect Oduga’s body. “When we arrived at the mortuary on Friday, the attendant brought out my brother’s corpse. His body was covered in bloodstains and showed multiple marks of physical abuse. I even saw deep handcuff marks on his wrists, indicating that he had been severely restrained. “We took photos and video recordings of his body and returned to Panti. Upon seeing the evidence, CSP Lateef admitted that my brother must have been tortured to death. Though he apologised to us and asked us to return home,” Bakare said. The grieving woman said the deceased family wanted justice and was ready to pursue the case to a logical conclusion. “As a family, we are determined to seek justice. We will get a good lawyer for the case. All we seek is justice,” she added. Speaking with Saturday PUNCH, Bakare’s husband, Ayoola, who had informed the Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin, via X (formerly Twitter) on Thursday night, condemned Oduga’s death and demanded justice. He said the family would ensure they get justice, disclosing that Oduga’s corpse would be retrieved from the mortuary on Monday for burial. As of the time of filing this report on Saturday, Hundeyin had yet to respond to calls or messages from our correspondent. https://punchng.com/two-policemen-arrested-as-car-dealer-dies-in-custody/ |
Politics / States Kick As Nigerian Oil Company NNPCL Deducts $525million From FIRS Remittan by ogododo: 12:54pm On Feb 16 |
According to a Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) report from a January 2025 post-mortem sub-committee meeting, NNPCL made monthly deductions of $52.51 million from funds due to FIRS for Joint Venture Gas and Company Income Tax between February and November 2024. The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has deducted a total of $525.09 million from its remittances to the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) under the Road Infrastructure Tax Credit Scheme (RITCS), sparking concerns among state governments. According to a Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) report from a January 2025 post-mortem sub-committee meeting, NNPCL made monthly deductions of $52.51 million from funds due to FIRS for Joint Venture Gas and Company Income Tax between February and November 2024. The RITCS allows private companies to invest in critical road infrastructure in exchange for tax relief. However, state representatives at the FAAC meeting objected to the deductions, arguing that road construction is the responsibility of the Federal Government. In August 2024, FAAC members called for a suspension of the deductions, demanding that their share of the withheld funds be calculated based on the existing revenue-sharing formula and refunded. During the FAAC plenary in Bauchi, members reiterated their stance, prompting the Chairman of the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission to formally request detailed information from FIRS on the tax credits granted to NNPCL and other companies under the scheme. According to the report, “The Sub-National position was that it is the responsibility of the Federal Government to construct roads; hence, the share of the Sub-National should be computed based on the existing Revenue Allocation Sharing Formula and refunded to them.” The Road Infrastructure Tax Credit Scheme has been instrumental in projects such as the 32-kilometre Apapa-Oshodi-Oworonshoki-Ojota expressway. However, state governments are now pressing for transparency and a resolution regarding the deductions. The RITCS was introduced by the Nigerian government to encourage private sector investment in critical road infrastructure. Under this scheme, companies can fund road construction or rehabilitation projects in exchange for tax credits, which reduce their tax liabilities. This approach aims to accelerate infrastructure development while easing the burden on public finances. Why Did NNPCL Deduct $525 Million? NNPCL deducted a total of $525.09 million from its remittances to FIRS over 10 months (February to November 2024) under the RITCS. The funds were meant to cover investments in road infrastructure, allowing NNPCL to offset these expenses against its Joint Venture Gas and Company Income Tax obligations. State governments have expressed strong opposition to these deductions for several reasons. For instance, states argue that the deducted funds should have been part of the revenues shared among the three tiers of government (federal, state, and local) through the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC). They demand their share of these funds, calculated using the existing revenue-sharing formula. States contend that road construction is primarily the responsibility of the Federal Government. They question why funds meant for revenue distribution are being used for federal infrastructure projects. Meanwhile, there is a demand for greater transparency regarding the tax credits granted under the RITCS, particularly to NNPCL and other companies. During meetings, including the January 2025 post-mortem sub-committee and a plenary in Bauchi, FAAC members reiterated their opposition to the deductions. They demanded a suspension of the practice and a refund of the withheld funds. Consequently, the Chairman of the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission requested detailed information from FIRS about the tax credits granted under the scheme. The RITCS has been crucial in financing major infrastructure projects, such as the 32-kilometre Apapa-Oshodi-Oworonshoki-Ojota expressway. https://saharareporters.com/2025/02/16/states-kick-nigerian-oil-company-nnpcl-deducts-525million-firs-remittances-road-tax |
Politics / Re: FACTCHECK: Are Tinubu’s Policies Reducing Food Inflation As Daniel Bwala Claimed by ogododo: 9:28am On Feb 16 |
Typing:
During this period every year, prices of foodstuffs is usually lower. The reason is because, most farmers just finished harvesting their farm produce. They have also flood the markets with varieties of farm produce.
This always force the prices down drastically. However, in lass than two months from now, the prices will go high.
I am a farmer and I have full knowledge of this and how it works. Tinubu's bad policies can never force the price of farm produce down.
Do you know how much farmers bought fertilizer last year? Do you know how much farmers bought seedlings, herbicide chemicals for weeds and other farm implements? The same farmers spend huge money on buying fuel at over 1k per litter. To transport themselves to farm daily
With all the above, challenges farmers go through under this administration, how do you think price of food stuffs will come down? From the middle of this year. Prices of food stuffs will be higher than it were at the same period last year. Naso we see am. 1 Like |
Politics / Re: More Evidences Confirm Enugu CP, Command Raked In N62M From Business Man by ogododo: 9:27am On Feb 16 |
Nna men, na CP level dey obtain Mndy44, Nlfpmod. 1 Like |
Politics / Re: FACTCHECK: Are Tinubu’s Policies Reducing Food Inflation As Daniel Bwala Claimed by ogododo: 11:49pm On Feb 15 |
Nawa Nlfpmod. |
Politics / FACTCHECK: Are Tinubu’s Policies Reducing Food Inflation As Daniel Bwala Claimed by ogododo: 7:05pm On Feb 15 |
Special Adviser to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Policy Communications, Daniel Bwala, has claimed that the policies of the current administration are reducing food inflation as prices of food items are gradually coming down.
While appearing on an episode of Arise News flagship programme, “The Morning Show”, earlier this week, Bwala noted that the economic policies of the current administration were on track.
“Our economic policies in my assessment have been doing very well. This is because where we were before the President took the oath of office and where we are today from the economic standpoint, economist say it is safe to assume that Nigeria is not to be dealt with a feeling that it is going into disintegration because the fundamentals of economy have been put in place.
“We are dealing with a nation whose national budget is less than $30bn and our infrastructure is in decadence as we do don’t have good roads and our hospitals are dead and we are navigating with limited resources. The current food inflation has gone down because food prices are going down. The general inflation of the last month was far better than the previous month,” Bwala said.
Daily Trust verified the claim by the Presidential spokesman and found out it misleading as food inflation figures as released by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) has been on the rise since May 2023 when President Tinubu took office.
Although figures for December show that food inflation had slightly moderated, the figures have been on the rise from 24.82 per cent recorded in May to the latest figure of 39.84 per cent. Also, the prices of food items have surged since the current administration came to power in 2023.
Breakdown of food inflation figures from June 2023 till date
A breakdown of inflation figures as analysed by Daily Trust show that in the month of June 2023, uptick in the inflation rate was largely driven by the food index, as food inflation accelerated to 25.25% in the review month compared to 24.82% recorded in May 2023.
On a month-on-month basis, the Food inflation rate in June 2023 was 2.40%, which was 0.21% points higher compared to the rate recorded in May 2023 (2.19%).
The rise in Food inflation on a year-on-year basis was caused by increases in prices of oil and fat, bread and cereals, fish, potatoes, yam and other tubers, fruits, meat, vegetable, milk, cheese, and eggs.
In July 2023, food inflation rate rose from 25.25 per cent to 26.9 per cent. The rise in Food inflation on a year-on-year basis was caused by increases in prices of Oil and fat, Bread and cereals, Fish, Potatoes, Yam and other tubers, Fruits, Meat, Vegetable, Milk, Cheese, and Eggs.
In the same vein, Nigeria’s food inflation rate in August 2023 was 29.34% on a year-on-year basis. This represents a 6.22%, points increase compared to the rate recorded in August 2022, which was 23.12%
For the month of September, Nigeria’s food inflation rate in September 2023 was 30.64% on a year-on-year basis, which was 7.30% points higher compared to the rate recorded in September 2022. This increase was part of a broader trend, as the headline inflation rate also rose to 26.72% in September 2023, up from 25.80% in August 2023, just as food inflation rate in October 2023 moved upwards from 31.52% on a year-on-year basis. This was 7.80% points higher compared to the rate recorded in October 2022 (23.72%).
Similarly, food inflation rate in November 2023 again rose to 32.84% on a year-on-year basis, which was 8.72% points higher compared to the rate recorded in November 2022 (24.13%), while food inflation rate in December 2023 surged again to 33.93% on a year-on-year basis. This represents a 10.1 per cent points increase compared to the rate recorded in December 2022, which was 23.75%
In the year 2024, food inflation rate in January 2024 skyrocketed from 33.9 per cent to 35.41 per cent on a year-on-year basis. This represents a significant increase of 11.10% points compared to the rate recorded in January 2023, which was 24.32%. The rising inflation was largely attributed to the removal of fuel subsidies and currency devaluation, which affected the production costs of food items, particularly carbohydrates.
In February 2024, Nigeria’s food inflation rate in February 2024 was 37.92% on a year-on-year basis, marking a significant increase of 13.57% points compared to the rate recorded in February 2023, which stood at 24.35% . This rise in food inflation was part of a broader trend, with the country’s headline inflation rate also increasing by 31.70% year-on-year in February 2024.
In March 2024, food inflation was 40.01% on a year-on-year basis, marking a significant increase of 15.56% points compared to the rate recorded in March 2023, which stood at 24.45 per cent and by April 2024, food inflation had reached an all time high of 40.53% on a year-on-year basis, marking a significant increase of 15.92 percentage points compared to the rate recorded in April 2023, which stood at 24.61% .
In May 2024, Nigeria’s food inflation rate increased slightly to 40.66% year-on-year, which was a 15.84% increase from the same month in 2023. This was due to rising prices of food items like oil, yam, cassava, fish, and meat.
By June 2024, food inflation rate further surged in the month under review, hitting 40.87% year-on-year compared to 40.66% recorded in May 2024. This is 15.62 percentage points higher than the rate of 25.25% recorded in June 2023 on a year-on-year analysis. By July 2024, for the first time, food inflation declined to 39.53% on a year-on-year basis, but 12.55% points higher compared to the rate recorded in July 2023 (26.98%).
In August, the country’s food inflation further declined to 37.52%, representing a decrease from 39.53% in July 2024, driven by the harvest season and base year effects Nigeria’s. the downward trend continued in September 2024 as inflation saw a further reduction to 37.77%. However, on a year-over-year, it recorded a significant increase of 7.13 percentage points compared to the 30.64% recorded in September 2023.
In October 2024, food inflation surged to 39.16 per cent according to NBS. The Bureau said the increase was driven by sharp rises in the prices of staples such as guinea corn, rice, maize grains, and yam, as well as palm oil, vegetable oil, and beverages like Milo, Lipton, and Bournvita.
Subsequently, food inflation rate went up again in November 2024 to 39.93%. On a year-over-year, it marked a significant increase of 7.08% from the 32.84% recorded in November 2023. This surge was driven by higher prices of essential food items, contributing to the country’s overall inflation rate of 34.60% in November 2024
The latest figures in December show that food inflation declined insignificantly by 0.09 percentage point to 39.84 percent from 39.93 percent in November.
Also, a sample of food commodities by Daily Trust has shown that their prices have risen in the last one year.
For instance, the prices of beans, yam, fish, rice, maize and other staples have increased by over 100 per cent in the almost two years since the current administration took over power.
Although in May 2023, President Tinubu declared a state of emergency on food security, seeking to address surging food costs, the declaration has not had significant impact on the prices of food items.
Also, the CBN has continued to tighten monetary rates in the last one year with no significant impact on food inflation.
In the same vein, the ministry of finance had measures for the suspension of duties, tariffs, and taxes on key food imports, including beans, wheat, and husked brown rice. These steps were aimed at curbing skyrocketing prices, but their impact has been limited so far.
Consequently, despite these interventions, food inflation has shown little sign or no sign of easing.
Conclusion
Daily Trust verified and found out that the claim of Mr. Bwala are largely false and misleading as inflation has maintained an upward surge from 25 per cent to 39 per cent since the coming of Tinubu and had just relaxed by 0.09 per cent in December 2024 according to the NBS. https://dailytrust.com/fact-check-are-tinubus-policies-reducing-food-inflation-as-daniel-bwala-claimed/ 16 Likes 1 Share
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European Football (EPL, UEFA, La Liga) / Liverpool Vs Wolves (2 - 1) On 16th February 2025 by ogododo: 3:51pm On Feb 15 |
Liverpool vs Wolves 16/02/2025 3pm |
Politics / Re: More Evidences Confirm Enugu CP, Command Raked In N62M From Business Man by ogododo: 3:47pm On Feb 15 |
Nawa Nlfpmod. |
Politics / More Evidences Confirm Enugu CP, Command Raked In N62M From Business Man by ogododo: 12:27pm On Feb 15 |
In a response to the allegations, the Enugu Police Command had issued a statement denying the accusations, calling them "unfounded." As the Enugu State Police Command struggles to deny the extortion of N62million from a businessman by its anti-kidnapping squad, more facts have emerged on how the police commissioner, Mr Kanayo Uzuegbu, was directly involved. SaharaReporters had reported on Thursday, how one Olu Agwu was forced to pay N62million to different accounts fronted by some senior police officers to avoid traces, in a disturbing trend of labelling high-profile victims as members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) with a view to extorting money from their victims. In a response to the allegations, the Enugu Police Command had issued a statement denying the accusations, calling them "unfounded." The statement signed by its Command's spokesperson SP Daniel Ndukwe, claimed that "there is no evidence that the suspect paid N2 million to any Investigating Police Officer (IPO) in the Anti-Kidnapping office, as the alleged IPO with the name Emmanuel Ahamefuna, does not exist in the office." Despite the denials, SaharaReporters had obtained receipts showing that N2million was paid into an account associated with an investigating police officer named Emmanuel Ahamefuna. However, the officer's real name is revealed to be Onyeisi and he hails from the Nsukka area of Enugu. Security sources have confirmed that the commander of the anti-kidnap squad, admitted in front of the Commissioner of Police (CP) that the IPO answers Emmanuel Ahamefuna as a cover for his activities. "The commander Anti-kidnapping squad (AKS) confirmed that the real name of the officer is Mr Onyeisi but he purposely used Emmanuel Ahamefuna to register his line. He even confirmed it in front of the CP," the source said. According to one of the sources, during a meeting with the CP last Saturday in his office, "He demanded for Mr Chinedu his front who is also known as 'Ojiaka Egbu Ele' to be detained when the voice note he sent to Mr Olu Agwu claiming that the CP and IGP needed the balance or he would be declared wanted was presented. "The CP in front of everyone denied that he didn’t instruct Mr Chinedu to send those threat voice notes about the balance of N100 million but Mr Chinedu challenged the CP in front of everyone saying you told me to say so to him. "Mr Chinedu further threatened the CP that if he’s being detained that he will spilled the whole milk," meaning that there's more to it as the source asserted. The sources claimed that the Commissioner and the anti-kidnap team had been under pressure since the publication of the report. They further revealed that "when the CP was asked about labelling him (Agwu) member of IPOB/ESN, the CP said the whole charges would be dropped as soon as he brought the money. "The evidences are there; the voice notes are there. Why saying the IGP needs his money back?" the source queried. They insisted that if the Commissioner refused to drop the charges, the authorities should investigate the accounts where the payments were made and where they were transferred. "They used an account one Daddy White AKS with phone number +234 803 406 1284 provided to make Mr Olu pay in the sum of 10 million naira for the police saying is the 10% of the 100 million naira meant for the police. "He is also the facilitator of the whole deal because he’s a very good friend to the Commissioner of Police. "Hon Ochi Nonso with phone number +234 806 080 1162 is the one that collected the sum of 20 million naira saying it was for the commissioner of police and his bail so that the CP would cancel the court order because they wanted to use the court to detain him for long," another source told SaharaReporters on Saturday. https://saharareporters.com/2025/02/15/breaking-more-evidences-confirm-enugu-police-commissioner-command-raked-n62million
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Politics / Speaker Abbas Calls For Urgent Action On Insecurity, Poverty In North-west by ogododo: 3:30pm On Feb 14 |
By Gift ChapiOdekina, Abuja Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, has called for urgent and coordinated action to address insecurity, poverty, and infrastructural decay in the North-West. Speaking at the inauguration of the House Committee on the North-West Development Commission (NWDC) at the National Assembly, Abbas stressed the need for decisive intervention to prevent further deterioration in the region. I get life-threatening calls, messages over my generators that don't use fuel - Oyekunle Ayansola...0:00 / 0:00 “For too long, the North-West has faced systemic neglect, worsening insecurity, and economic decline. This Commission must be the catalyst for real, measurable change,” he said. He urged the NWDC to conduct a comprehensive needs assessment and develop a 10-year strategic plan backed by innovative financing mechanisms, including public-private partnerships and development bonds, to ensure sustainability. The Speaker lamented the devastating impact of insecurity, particularly on industries such as the textile sector in Kaduna and Kano, which have nearly collapsed due to violence and policy failures. “Banditry and rural violence have crippled agricultural production, displaced thousands, and forced children out of school. These are existential threats to the region’s survival,” he warned. Abbas commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for prioritizing regional development through initiatives such as the National Poverty Reduction and Growth Strategy and the National Livestock Transformation Plan, which has increased livestock production by 5% annually over the past two years, benefiting over 1.5 million households. He also praised the President’s commitment to decentralization, citing local government autonomy and electricity distribution reforms as essential steps toward empowering communities. “The establishment of a Ministry for Regional Development and the President’s swift assent to the Regional Development Bills show his resolve. Now, it is time for this Commission to translate policy into action,” he stated. Abbas called on the newly inaugurated House Committee to ensure the NWDC delivers on its mandate without political interference or mismanagement, emphasizing that the region’s development is a national imperative. “A prosperous North-West means a stronger Nigeria. This is a call to action for all stakeholders—state governments, traditional rulers, civil society, and the private sector. We must act now,” he urged. Chairman of the House Committee on the NWDC, Hon. Gumi, pledged a transparent and results-driven approach to tackling the region’s insecurity, economic stagnation, and infrastructure deficit. “This is not just the inauguration of a committee; it is a day filled with hope and renewed determination. Our people have endured hardship for too long, but today marks a new chapter,” he said. Gumi outlined the Committee’s broad mandate, including monitoring NWDC activities, engaging with development partners, and collaborating with the private sector to drive rehabilitation, resettlement, and growth across the seven states of the North-West—Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Sokoto, and Zamfara. He emphasized that security is at the core of the Commission’s mandate, noting that sustainable development cannot be achieved in a region plagued by banditry, kidnapping, and economic downturns. “We bear a duty to ensure that this Commission does not become another failed intervention but a model of efficiency, accountability, and impact,” he said. Gumi vowed to ensure NWDC initiatives are people-driven, inclusive, and transparent. “The success of the NWDC depends on appointing leaders of integrity, competence, and innovation,” he stressed. To achieve this, he pledged robust oversight visits to NWDC projects, budgetary alignment with regional priorities, partnerships with international organizations and private sector stakeholders, and a quarterly review mechanism to monitor progress and recalibrate strategies. He also emphasized learning from other regional development commissions to avoid inefficiencies and policy missteps. Unveiling a proposed work plan, Gumi highlighted key focus areas, including youth empowerment, infrastructural development, security improvement, and leveraging the region’s agricultural and commercial potential for sustainable growth. “It is not enough to have policies on paper; we must ensure they translate into tangible improvements in people’s lives,” he said. Gumi called on federal and state governments, traditional leaders, civil society, and the private sector to collaborate in ensuring the NWDC fulfills its mandate. “With unity, dedication, and shared purpose, we will address challenges, seize opportunities, and create lasting change. Together, we will lay the foundation for a prosperous and thriving North-West,” he concluded. https://www.vanguardngr.com/2025/02/speaker-abbas-calls-for-urgent-action-on-insecurity-poverty-in-north-west/ |
Politics / IGP Urges Senate To Conduct Closed-Session Investigation On Alleged Missing Arms by ogododo: 6:49am On Feb 14 |
Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun has urged the Senate to make the conduct of investigation on the alleged missing firearms a closed session for security reasons.
Mr Egbetokun stated this in a letter addressed to Senate President Godswill Akpabio and read at plenary on Thursday.
He commended the Senate’s efforts to conduct a thorough investigation on the alleged missing firearms.
“We appreciate the Senate committee’s probe into the alleged missing firearms,” said Mr Egbetokun. “We urge the committee to conduct future hearings on sensitive security issues in camera so that wrong impression will not be created in the minds of Nigerians and the minds of the international community.”
Mr Egbetokun stated that this would ensure national security and prevent misinformation.
“Conducting hearings on these sensitive security issues in camera will help prevent the spread of misinformation and protect national security interests.
“It will also allow for more candid discussions and fact-finding,” he said.
The inspector-general of police expressed his commitment to maintaining a strong partnership with the National Assembly to drive positive changes in the country and improve the lives of Nigerians and the country’s security.
After reading the letter, Mr Akpabio said the IGP’s letter was very clear: “It speaks for itself.”
He said that while the investigation would be done internally by the police, further investigation would also be conducted by the Senate.
(NAN) https://gazettengr.com/igp-begs-senate-to-conduct-closed-session-investigation-on-alleged-missing-firearms/ 2 Likes 1 Share
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Politics / Re: "No Arms Missing Under Egbetokun," Police Repond To Audit Report by ogododo: 10:44pm On Feb 13 |
Nawa for dis pipu. |
Politics / "No Arms Missing Under Egbetokun," Police Repond To Audit Report by ogododo: 10:22am On Feb 13 |
The Nigeria Police Force has dismissed recent reports alleging that 3,907 firearms are missing from its armouries, stating that the claims are misleading and do not reflect the reality of the situation.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, emphasised that the allegations stemmed from a 2019 audit report by the Office of the Auditor-General of the Federation and do not indicate an actual disappearance of arms.
“The report appears to stem from an assessment of the 2019 audit, which likely reflects records compiled before the tenure of the current Inspector-General of Police.
“The report states that 3,907 arms were ‘unaccounted for,’ not ‘missing,’ as speculated in the news,” Adejobi stated.
This clarification follows a February 11 report, which detailed how the Senate Public Accounts Committee grilled the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, over discrepancies in police armoury records.
During the hearing, the committee expressed concern that 178,459 firearms, including 88,078 AK-47 rifles, were allegedly missing from police formations across the country, citing findings from the Auditor-General’s 2019 audit report.
However, the police on Thursday, maintained that such figures do not reflect the current status of their armouries, noting that weapons assigned to officers for operations may not always be present during audits.
“We also note that when auditors conduct visits to our armouries, they may not find all arms present at the time due to the issuance of weapons to personnel for operational purposes, some spanning months, depending on the nature of such operations.
“Consequently, this may lead to misconceptions regarding the accuracy of audit reports,” Adejobi explained.
He also highlighted that some arms were lost due to attacks on police formations, particularly during civil unrest, a point the police reiterated in their response.
“It is important to acknowledge the challenges faced by the police during periods of civil unrest, where several officers were killed and their arms carted away.
“However, every effort has been made to recover these arms, and many have already been accounted for,” the police statement read.
Adejobi also clarified that Egbetokun was not present during the Senate’s discussion on the missing firearms, contrary to reports suggesting otherwise.
PUNCH Online had reported that Egbetokun attending to the committee had chosen a representative to appear on his behalf at future sittings.
Thus, Adejobi on Thursday asserted that the IG had only appeared briefly before the committee on Tuesday to address concerns about previous invitations, after which the Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Accounts and Budget, Abdul Sulaiman, remained to respond to audit queries.
“The IGP was asked to take the usual oath and explain why he did not honour previous invitations by the committee.
“He responded to the satisfaction of the committee members and was thereafter excused, while the Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Police Accounts and Budget, stayed back to answer the queries,” the statement clarified.
The Senate Committee has now postponed further hearings on the audit to Monday, February 17, 2025, allowing the police time to reconcile discrepancies in the records.
Meanwhile, the police have expressed concern over what they described as misinformation aimed at undermining public confidence in law enforcement.
“The proliferation of misinformation, especially against institutions like the Nigeria Police, has far-reaching consequences, including compromising public safety, damaging reputations, and hindering the NPF’s ability to effectively maintain law and order,” Adejobi warned.
Also, the FPRO emphasised that these issues of missing arms from 2019 and 2020 do not in anyway relates to the tenure of the current IG, Egbetokun.
PUNCH Online reports that on June 19, 2023, President Bola Tinubu appointed Egbetokun to replace Usman Alkali Baba.
“These queries related to the period that predated the administration of the current IGP.
“For emphasis sake, no such outrageous number of firearms is missing in the armouries of the NPF within the stated period,” the report further noted.
https://punchng.com/no-arms-missing-under-egbetokun-police-repond-to-audit-report/ 2 Likes 1 Share
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Politics / Re: Tinubu Poorly Advised On Tax Reform Bills – Rep by ogododo: 6:34am On Feb 13 |
Nawa Nlfpmod. |
European Football (EPL, UEFA, La Liga) / Re: Everton Vs Liverpool (2 - 2) On 12th February 2025 by ogododo: 10:57pm On Feb 12 |
wiseone28: And you come disgrace yourself here Naso we see am |
European Football (EPL, UEFA, La Liga) / Re: Everton Vs Liverpool (2 - 2) On 12th February 2025 by ogododo: 10:49pm On Feb 12 |
wiseone28: It is spelled "Liverpool" go school you say na gala you want sell At least I take am build house. 11 Likes |
Politics / Tinubu Poorly Advised On Tax Reform Bills – Rep by ogododo: 10:48pm On Feb 12 |
Hon Sada Soli, the member representing Jibia/Kaita Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, has said that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was poorly advised on the tax reform bills
Soli stated this during an interview on Channels TV’s Politics Today on Wednesday.
He said that the North acted on the bill in the interest of Nigeria.
Soli added that the bill was not drafted by professionals, saying it did not follow the due drafting process.
He said, “Let us be fair to Mr President. For a President to take a decision, he has to rely on certain advice. I think the president was poorly advised. People that drafted these bills in the first place, the draft was poorly done because they were referring to the bills as acts. When I read these bills I know that they were poorly drafted and were not subjected to professional drafters.
“We have to be fair to the President. He is an individual. He was advised by his consultants. And the bill did not go through the normal process it should have followed. Bola Tinubu, anybody that knows him knows his political sagacity.
“He is an inclusive politician. I have to be fair to him. When he realizes that the bills are capable of causing some problems, he subjected them to all scrutiny. Governors looked at them. He said that the Senate should go and sit down with the Attorney General of the Federation. He discussed with the Speaker and members of the House of Representatives to widely look at them, before he tried to consider the bills.” https://dailytrust.com/tinubu-poorly-advised-on-tax-reform-bills-rep/ 6 Likes
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European Football (EPL, UEFA, La Liga) / Re: Everton Vs Liverpool (2 - 2) On 12th February 2025 by ogododo: 10:38pm On Feb 12 |
Lilipool don start. 1 Like |
European Football (EPL, UEFA, La Liga) / Re: Everton Vs Liverpool (2 - 2) On 12th February 2025 by ogododo: 10:19pm On Feb 12 |
Salah. 1 Like |
Politics / I Regret Campaigning For Tinubu In 2023 – Kano APC Chieftain by ogododo: 6:16pm On Feb 12 |
Kano-based politician and All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain, Alhaji Abdulmajid Dan Bilki commander, has said he regrets campaigning for President Ahmed Bola Tinubu during the 2023 general election.
In a telephone chat with Daily Trust, Commander said based on the performance indicators available to every Nigerian, President Tinubu has failed many Nigerians who voted for him in 2023.
He explained that in his entire life, he had never regretted an action the way he is regretting campaigning for President Tinubu.
“It pains me, but it is the truth and let the truth be told. I am an active member of APC, but I must admit that Nigeria’s administration under APC has failed Nigerians and as an individual who had dedicated his time and resources in convincing people to vote for the party, I want to state here that I am regretting my action,” he said.
Commander also stated that as a representative of the masses, he has to seek for their forgiveness as what he had promised them from the APC-led government were not been delivered to them.
He explained that Nigerians were suffering and their expectations from the APC government were not met.
“Nigerians are hungry and angry. Their security not guaranteed and governance lopsided, they couldn’t afford two square meals per day,” he said.
https://dailytrust.com/i-regret-campaigning-for-tinubu-in-2023-kano-apc-chieftain/ 17 Likes 2 Shares
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Politics / Re: FG Suspends Implementation Of 4% FOB Charge In Nigeria by ogododo: 1:30pm On Feb 12 |
Nawa for dis pain man. |
European Football (EPL, UEFA, La Liga) / Re: Everton Vs Liverpool (2 - 2) On 12th February 2025 by ogododo: 12:34pm On Feb 12 |
Na today. |
Politics / Re: FG Suspends Implementation Of 4% FOB Charge In Nigeria by ogododo: 9:43pm On Feb 11 |
Nawa Nlfpmod, dis gofament wan kpai with levies. |
Politics / FG Suspends Implementation Of 4% FOB Charge In Nigeria by ogododo: 8:26pm On Feb 11 |
(FOB) value charge on imports, as stipulated in Section 18(1)(a) of the Nigeria Customs Service Act (NCSA) 2023. This decision, communicated through a press release signed by Assistant Comptroller of Customs and National Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Maiwada, on Tuesday, follows extensive consultations with the Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Olawale Edun, alongside other key stakeholders. The suspension aims to facilitate comprehensive engagement with relevant stakeholders to refine the framework for implementing the Act. RelatedStories Manufacturers call for suspension of Customs’ 4% Free-on-Board import levy FEBRUARY 11, 2025 Former Senate President Saraki slams FG over 4% charge on Free On-Board import value in Nigeria FEBRUARY 9, 2025 The timing of this policy shift coincides with the expiration of the contract agreements with Service providers such as Webb Fontaine, who were previously financed through the 1% Comprehensive Import Supervision Scheme (CISS). Addressing Funding and Operational Challenges Under the previous system, the separation of the 1% CISS and the 7% cost of collection created inefficiencies and funding gaps in the modernisation of customs operations. The NCSA 2023 was designed to address these shortcomings by consolidating the funding structure under a provision that allows “not less than 4% of the Free-on-Board value of imports.” T his framework is expected to provide a more sustainable funding mechanism for critical customs operations, technological advancements, and modernisation initiatives. NCS says during the suspension period, the NCS will focus on optimising the management of this new revenue framework while ensuring that its implementation aligns with national economic interests and trade facilitation objectives. Technology-Driven Modernisation and Trade Facilitation The NCSA 2023 empowers the Nigeria Customs Service to drive modernisation through various technological innovations. Section 28 of the Act mandates the development and maintenance of electronic systems to facilitate seamless information exchange between the NCS, other government agencies, and traders. News continues after this ad As part of its digital transformation agenda, the Service has already implemented several innovative solutions, including the recently deployed B’Odogwu clearance system. This system has significantly improved clearance times and enhanced transparency within the import process. Other key modernisation initiatives outlined in the Act include: Single Window Implementation (Section 33): A centralised digital platform to streamline trade facilitation and reduce bureaucratic bottlenecks. Risk Management Systems (Section 32): Leveraging data analytics and artificial intelligence to improve risk profiling and enhance security at entry points. Non-Intrusive Inspection Equipment (Section 59): Deployment of scanning technologies to expedite cargo clearance while minimising physical inspections. Electronic Data Exchange Facilities (Section 33(3)): Enhancing interoperability and real-time data sharing among trade stakeholders. These advancements are expected to bolster Nigeria’s trade competitiveness, improve customs efficiency, and strengthen anti-smuggling measures. https://nairametrics.com/2025/02/11/breaking-fg-suspends-implementation-of-4-fob-charge-in-nigeria/ |
Politics / 2027: South West, Tinubu's Supporters Playing With Fire - by ogododo: 12:55pm On Feb 11 |
2027: SOUTH WEST, TINUBU'S SUPPORTERS PLAYING WITH FIRE - Part 1
It is actually premature to be talking about 2027 elections less than 2 years into our first tenure, but what is happening in the political arena is forcing me to speak to it, for as they say, 'a stitch in time saves nine'.
As an APC member, I naturally would want my party to win re-election in 2027.
However, as a realist, I have my concerns.
I recall that during the 2019 party Primaries, when I saw the way our party was handling the Primaries, I wrote that if the party wasn't careful, it could go the way of the PDP which lost power after 16 years.
I predicted then that if we didn't return to our promised progressive path and ideology and instead stayed obsessed with just winning elections at any and all cost, just like the PDP, we could lose power at the federal level by 2031.
When I wrote that, we were not faced with the current situation we are faced with. Indeed, I never imagined that we would be in the current situation any time soon, surely not under President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Note: I am not talking about the present economic situation and the likes. I am talking about the current and increasing 'ghaghagha' in our party and among APC members and supporters of the PBAT administration.
Incidentally, many Nigerians have a short memory. Permit me to juggle the memories of some short memoried and uninitiated political neophytes.
Many will recall that, as we approached the 2023 presidential election, with the conduct of some individuals, I desperately cautioned that we should be careful and not play with the North. Somehow, common sense prevailed, and we succeeded, unarguably and undeniably with the unquantifiable help of the North (the records of the election results prove so).
Less than 2 years into the tenure, we are witnesses to how the relationship between the North and President Bola Tinubu or rather his administration is quickly deteriorating, driven by the words and conduct of unfortunately, many from the President’s geopolitical zone and tribe. Truth be told.
I have read and heard the arrogant posturing and braggadacio by some people who I refer to as political rabble rousers, but I get more worried each day as it keeps looking more and more like a movie we had seen before.
May I remind some persons that, more than the performance or lack thereof of the President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan administration, it was his attitude, and that of people around him, towards the North that ultimately brought him down and by extension the PDP that had boasted that it would rule Nigeria for 60 years.
In the lead up to the 2015 Presidential election, inspite of the popularity of General Muhammadu Buhari Rtd and the gathering of political heavyweights under the umbrella of the then newly formed APC, one key factor that led to former President Jonathan and the PDP losing that election was underestimating the North and the disrespect and insult directed towards to North, notably led by the then first lady and accentuated by elements from the South South geopolitical zone and particularly his Ijaw kinsmen, many of them with little or no political weight and many of whom were living full time in NICON and Sheraton hotels Abuja then (with newly found free money).
Funny enough, many of these individuals contributed little or nothing to Jonathan's victory in 2011.
Indeed, many of them forgot that it was the agitation by groups like the Save Nigeria Group (SNG), spearheaded by the likes of Pastor Tunde Bakare, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, Mr Yinka Odumakin (RIP) and co that eventually led to then VP Goodluck Jonathan becoming the acting President in the first place following the incapacitation of former President Shehu Musa Yaradua (God rest his soul).
2027: SOUTH WEST, TINUBU'S SUPPORTERS PLAYING WITH FIRE - Part 2
Driven by ego and the arrogance of power, these South South and PDP elements increasingly and I dare add naively went against the North, where the PDP still had considerable influence and support then, in the most condescending manner and in so doing gradually lost the support of the North to the advantage of Buhari and the APC coalition. The rest, as they say, is history.
Today, as I Iook at the rambunctiousness of some APC members and fellow supporters of President Bola Tinubu, especially from the south west geopolitical zone, I wonder if people have any sense of history and if they truly understand Nigerian politics.
I read some people say that President Tinubu is not former President Jonathan, Jagaban is a political juggernaut and master strategist, etc. All that I totally agree with. No question whatsoever. However, politics is not a one champion show.
While fPGEJ lacked equivalent political gravitas and sophistication (with all due respect to him) as PBAT, he had the then formidable PDP behemoth which could have actually seen him through but for the grievous 'political mistake' of messing with the North.
Love or loathe that fact, the North remains the kingmaker in Nigerian politics, at least, as of today. Any politician or political party that plays with that reality might pay a steep political price for it.
People who ignore history are bound to fall victim and to repeat mistakes of the past.
I just want to prod our political senses, in case some of us are forgetting, in the euphoria of tribal and geopolitical politics.
I hope better sense will prevail and soon too. It is whom you love that you chastise.
In all, I continue to wish PBAT and my party, the APC well.
With almost exactly two years to the month to the 2027 general elections, let's focus and continue to deliver the promised dividends of democracy to Nigerians.
#GodBlessNigeria
©️ Uche Diala
10th February 2025 https://x.com/elrufai/status/1889248200399167887 3 Likes 2 Shares
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Politics / Hardship: Most Govs Live Permanently In Abuja, NLC Laments by ogododo: 7:50am On Feb 11 |
THE Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, yesterday lamented that most governors abandon their states and live permanently in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory, while the people they were supposed to govern are facing hardship.
President of the NLC, Mr. Joe Ajaero, stated this in what appeared to be a town hall meeting with workers at the NLC Secretariat, Lokoja, Kogi State.
The NLC leadership is in Kogi State to deliver and commission 10 Compressed Natural Gas, CNG, buses provided to the state chapter of the congress to ease transportation problems.
The town hall meeting was organised primarily for the workers to present their problems and demands to the NLC leadership, so the matters could be taken to the governor.
Ajaero, who noted that the leadership had visited five zones, regretted that the governors were always absent, having travelled to Abuja.
While stressing that workers were feeling the heat of the harsh economic realities, with the high cost of living, Ajaero said for government to contemplate increasing tariff on telecom, was pushing workers too far.
He said the leadership would take to the governor the problems and demands workers reeled out, even as he said of the five zones visited, it was only in one the governor was around.
Ajaero said: “However, there is a problem we are having in trends because most governors are now living permanently in Abuja. We have moved to about five zones, Kogi is about the fifth zone. We have met governors in only one state. Each time you go there, they are in Abuja and this is affecting governance.
“I think we should be able to manage the center and the units, so people will have the feeling of democracy, the dividend of democracy, so that people can talk to their leaders.
“So if we capture all these things, the information you are going to give us will be conditional if the governor is around. If he’s around, we will convey your information to him. If he’s not around, whosoever he’s going to send, we pass it to him.”
He said that Kogi State was strategic to the Congress because it had union leaders as governor and deputy, adding that Governor Usman Ododo was one of his officials in Niger State and the deputy, an official of the Nigeria Union of Teachers, NUT.
He said: “So, we want to make this as a town hall meeting to listen to you to know what has been done and what has not been done properly, so we take it to them.
“To us, it is like home coming. We want to come and interact with them to find out whether they are doing those things we are criticising others for.”
On the proscription of labour unions in state-owned tertiary institutions by Governor Yahaya Bello’s administration, the NLC President, who expressed surprise that such thing exists in the state, said the state government lacked the right to proscribe unions under the exclusive legislative list.
He said: “Let me say here, union practice falls under the Exclusive Legislative List in the Constitution. No governor has powers to ban them, you don’t ban what you don’t have control over. Unions are registered nationally by the registrar of trade unions. For administrative convenience, they may choose to have branches in states, so what are you now banning?”
Earlier, the workers told the NLC President that over 10 years, the Kogi State Polytechnics, Kogi State University, the State Colleges of Education, Technology and Nursing had been under proscription by the state government.
Other demands workers wanted the intervention of the NLC were non- implementation of annual salary increase, non-provision of housing for workers, as well as shortage of teachers in primary and junior secondary schools, among others. https://www.vanguardngr.com/2025/02/hardship-most-govs-live-permanently-in-abuja-nlc-laments/
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Politics / Re: 2027: Atiku, Tambuwal, Imoke in closed-door meeting with Obasanjo by ogododo: 3:01pm On Feb 10 |
Dem don dey gather. |
Politics / LEMU Imam To Muslims: Vote Out Candidates Who Oppose Sharia by ogododo: 8:15am On Feb 10 |
LAGOS—Chief Imam of Lekki Central Mosque, Sheikh Ridwan Jamiu, has called on Muslims to reject any governorship candidate who refuses to commit to establishing Shariah courts in the state.
While delivering the Jumaat sermon at Lekki Central Mosque last Friday, Dr Jamiu emphasized the importance of holding candidates accountable for their stance on Shariah courts. “Elections are coming, and any governorship candidate seeking your vote must be committed to establishing Shariah courts.
“It is time we assert our constitutional rights. Shariah courts in the Southwest states are long overdue."
The Imam highlighted that the Nigerian Constitution recognizes Shariah citing sections 38 and 40, which guarantee freedom of religion and association, respectively.
Dr. Jamiu also addressed concerns about Shariah panels, stating that they serve as Alternative Disputes Resolution (ADR) mechanisms. “Section 177 allows any state to establish Shariah courts, which will adjudicate on marriage, divorce, custody of children, property law, inheritance, wills, and other civil matters,” he explained.
The Imam emphasized that Shariah courts are essential in Yoruba land and should be established in all Southwest states. “We have Shariah courts in the North, and it has not caused any harm to non-Muslims. It is not the business of non-Muslims; it is meant for Muslims alone,” he said.
Dr. Jamiu added: “It is time we assert our constitutional rights. Shariah court in the South west states is long overdue. Any candidate who refuses to commit himself into establishing a sharia court in your state, don’t vote for him. https://www.vanguardngr.com/2025/02/lemu-imam-to-muslims-vote-out-candidates-who-oppose-sharia/ 9 Likes 4 Shares
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Politics / Re: I Have Proof Binani Defeated Fintiri In Adamawa – Sacked REC Claims by ogododo: 8:01am On Feb 10 |
Na serious indictment be dis one. 1 Like |
Foreign Affairs / Re: Musk Wants Julius Malema Sanctioned For Demanding Killing Of Whites In South Afr by ogododo: 6:13am On Feb 10 |
Nawa o. |
European Football (EPL, UEFA, La Liga) / Re: Liverpool Out Of FA CUP, Beaten By Plymouth Arygles 1-0 by ogododo: 11:27pm On Feb 09 |
TemplarLandry: Aftermath of empty overconfidence. 😁 Dem go dey humble. |