₦airaland Forum

Ijegun Ijeododo Community Agog as 'Obi Chukwu' Palace Celebrates Igbo Cultural Day

By Onome Naomi

The Igbo cultural day is set aside especially to celebrate Igbo sons and daughters at home and in diaspora. It's a means of preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of the Igbo people. It provides an opportunity for Igbo individuals and communities to showcase their traditional values, customs, language, arts, music, and dance, as seen in the celebration of the new yam festival known as 'Iriji' on Sunday, September 15, 2024, by the Ezendigbo of Ijegun Ijeododo, Chairman Council of Ezes in Lagos, Eze Amb. Dr. Eze Chika Nwokedi of Obi Eziokwu's Palace.

The highlight of the event involved the cutting and eating of the new yam, the presentation of kolanut, Igbo cultural displays, traditional folk music, masquerade displays, and others.

The first half of the occasion commenced with the bestowing of the chieftain title on eight members identified with Obi Eziokwu Palace in recognition of their behavioral qualities in the last 10 years. These title holders include: High Chief Chibuzor Obidike, 'The Oyi of Oyi' Ijegun Ijeododo; High Chief Obiora Okonkwo, 'Ozo Igbo Ndu Guruguru'; Chief Udegbe Sylvester Chioma, 'Ozuo ome 1 of Ijegun Ijeododo; High Chief Dr. Ndubuisi Ebem, 'Uru ka Na Chukwu Ijegun Ijeododo'; and High Chief Christian Ikechi Uwaeme, Akaekpuchionwa 1 of Alimosho.

Speaking with the title chiefs, Naomi Sophy Blog gathered that the titles were given according to the roles played individually towards members of the society. It is expected that the chiefs maintain the given titles to enable a wider scope in their effort and responsibility towards people in the community, as emphasized by Eze Chika.

The second half of the event was done glamorously with a rich display of cultural heritage in welcome of the new yam. According to customs and tradition, the Iriji is celebrated in the ember months. For Eze Chika Nwokedi, he celebrates 'Iriji' every 3rd week of September yearly to usher in the king of all crops as well as the commencement of a new era of fruitfulness. It is an Igbo culture to celebrate the bountiful harvest of yams before consumption.

A speech was given in reference to the new yam festival by Chief Ifeanyi Iguegbe as he welcomes all in attendance. In the official speech, it is noted that the new yam festival is an epic historical event that should be observed by Igbos at home and in diaspora, as seen in Eze Chika's yearly event for being a custodian of tradition.

Speaking with Chairman of the occasion Chief Martins Ifenedebem, the former president of the 'Electrical Dealers Association of Nigeria Alaba International Market', he noted that the importance of the new yam festival is in significance with the Igbo culture, which stems from revering yam as the king of all crops before consumption to enable a better harvest in subsequent years. Advices Igbos to plant their own yam and watch out for it's harvest as tradition demands.

Eze Amb Dr Chika Nwokedi, the Ezendigbo of Ijegun Ijeododo, Chairman Council of Ezes in Lagos, in excitement, told pressmen at the new yam festival of 2024 that despite the economic downturn, the turnout of attendees from all tribes coming together to celebrate the Igbo cultural day with the Igbos in the Ijegun Ijeododo community in unity makes the occasion a remarkable event. He stated that it is paramount for Igbos to represent their culture anywhere in the world, as it is a reminder of one's origin. Advices Igbos against unwise decisions of accumulating wealth to purchase material things, forgetting they do not own landed properties. Do well to help the less privileged rather than do frivolous spending, he added.

As usual, the magnanimous monarch, Eze Chika, in company of his wife, Pst. Tessy Chika Nwokedi 'Ugoeze,' gave out lots of gift items as well as educated attendees on the act of giving. Eze Nwokedi, who has helped a lot of people, including widows and the incarcerated, will be empowering over 100 more widows and widowers in December 2024 as he encourages his VIP friends to support his course.

Lastly, the cutting and eating of the new yam as the occasion demanded was done in the company of co-monarchs and dignitaries present. The VIP attendees of the Iriji event include: AIG Ogundele J. Ayodeji of FCIID Alagbon, Chief Sunday Udeh President of Igbo Speaking Community Lagos, Chief Martins Ifenedebem, Eze Jude Arinze, Eze Eze Nwoye the Bobaselu of Ejigbo, Eze Igwe Augustine Sunday Ojukwu, Chief Chukwunonye, Nwachukwu Austin Onyeka, High Chief Sunday Uwanogho, the Ijegun Ijeododo palace chiefs of Eze Chika Nwokedi, entourages from the Oba of Ijegun and Ijeododo palace, and other invited guests.

Read more on:
https://www.naomisophyblog.com.ng/event-ijegun-ijeododo-community-agog-as-obi-chukwu-palace-celebrates-igbo-cultural-day/

Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, have taken into custody a wanted alleged drug baron, Alhaji Suleiman Ganiu Aremu (a.k.a Barryshine) two years after coming under the radar of the anti-narcotics agency.

Suleiman who is the Managing Director/CEO of Barryshine Suleiman Nigeria Ltd came under the agency’s watchlist over his alleged role in four foiled attempts to export cocaine to Saudi Arabia and Qatar through the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, MMIA Ikeja Lagos between 2022 and 2024.

His name first featured on November 13, 2022, when a female passenger on Qatar airlines flight to Saudi Arabia, Alhaja Ajisegiri Kehinde Sidika was arrested at the MMIA in possession of 400 grams of cocaine, which was concealed inside female footwears.

Investigation later revealed that one Abdullahi Olarenwaju Ramon, who is a brother to Suleiman hired the arrested drug courier. Further facts emerged that the flight tickets and other travel expenses of the suspect were sourced by Alhaji Suleiman Ganiu Aremu.

A few days after the arrest of Ajisegiri Kehinde Sidika, another drug mule, Lawal Lateef Oyenuga was also arrested on November 24, 2022, with the same quantity of cocaine, 400 grams, concealed in male footwears while going to the same destination, Saudi Arabia.

The suspect, Lawal Lateef Oyenuga confessed that one Wasiu Sanni Gbolahan (a.k.a Teacher) who was later arrested and convicted by the court, hired him for Suleiman. Lawal further alleged that Wasiu Gbolahan linked him up with the baron through one Igbono, who was later unveiled through investigation as Oluwafemi Akande Abidoye (a.k.a Igbono, Murphy, Femi Iwaya, Ade Iwaya, Baba Eje and Ejeoto)

While investigation of the two cases subsisted and the manhunt for the baron was ongoing, two drug mules were arrested at the MMIA on June 21, 2024 on their way to Doha, Qatar. One of the suspects who was later identified as Aikhomoun Daniel (a.k.a Oladapo Olanrewaju) expelled in observation custody a total of 90 pellets of cocaine, weighing 1.022kg, which he ingested, while the second suspect, Ayigoro Waheed Omobolaji excreted 60 wraps of cocaine with a total weight of 662 grams.

Further investigation later revealed that the two arrested couriers, Aikhomoun Daniel and Ayigoro Waheed Omobolaji were recruited by the same Igbono who works for the baron and featured in 2022 during the arrest of Ajesegiri Kehinde Sidika and Lawal Lateef Oyenuga. Financial investigation conducted by the agency also linked the baron Suleiman to the arrested suspects and two of his associates who recruit traffickers for him: Oluwafemi Akande Abidoye and Olanrewaju Abdullahi Ramon, both currently at large.

As a result, the agency blocked the bank accounts linked to members of the cartel after which Suleiman was eventually taken into custody on August 26, 2024 for further investigation.

In his statements, Suleiman claimed he was into property development and hotel management while he lived in Lagos and Paris, France. He also stated that he ran another business that dealt in in cloths with his wife at Balogun market, Lagos Island, adding that his regular visits to Saudi Arabia was to perform lesser hajj.

He said he held the traditional title of Akeweje of Yaba (Youth Leader of Yaba Land). Already, some properties traced to Suleiman include: two houses at 63 and 72 Queens Street, Ebute-Meta and his Barryshine hotel at 95 Freeman street, Yaba, Lagos.

Meanwhile, Justice Dipeolu Deinde Isaac of the Federal High Court, Lagos has granted an application by the NDLEA for the extension of the detention of the drug kingpin Suleiman for 30 days and to declare his two associates: Oluwafemi Akande Abidoye and Olanrewaju Abdullahi Ramon, both currently at large, wanted.

Ruling on the motion ex-parte in suit number: FHC/L/MISC/555/24, Justice Dipeolu said: “an order is hereby made declaring one Oluwafemi Akande Abidoye a.ka ‘Igbono’, ‘Murphy’, ‘Femi Iwaya’, ‘Ade Iwaya’, ‘Baba Eje’, ‘Ejeoto’ wanted who is presently at large for his involvement in multiple drug trafficking activities with Suleiman Aremu Ganiu (a.k.a Barryshine).”

The judge also ruled that “an order is hereby made declaring one Olarenwaju Ramon Abdulahi wanted who is presently at large for his involvement in the drug trafficking activities with Suleiman Aremu Ganiu (a.k.a Baryshine) with respect to the arrest of Ajisegiri Kehinde Sidika who was arrested at MMIA Ikeja-Lagos during outward clearance of Qatar Airways flight to Saudi Arabia with 400 grams of cocaine concealed in foot wears.”

Reacting to the development, Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd) commended the officers and men of the MMIA Strategic Command for the painstaking two years investigation that culminated in the conviction of three traffickers and the eventual arrest of the kingpin behind the cartel. He said this demonstrates that the long arm of the law will always get whoever is involved in the criminal trade no matter how long it takes.

https://www.google.com/amp/s/pmnewsnigeria.com/2024/09/13/fall-alleged-drug-kingpin-suleiman-ganiu-aremus-reign-ends/%3famp=1

Chairman of Aguiyi Ironsi International Spare Parts Market Association Chief Chukwuma Fears Arrest Over Alleged Harassment, Violence on Traders; Seek Cover

By Onome Naomi

Police Intelligence operatives from the Tactical team in Surulere, Lagos, have began manhunt for the Chairman of Aguiyi Ironsi International Spare Parts Market Association, Chief Chukwuma Onyebinanma a.k.a Ikukuoma, who was said to have gone into hiding over alleged violent attack on another trader, Mr. Lotanna Okafor, inside the market.

Naomisophyblog reports that this happened barely few days after Onyebinanma was released on bail at IRT office at the Force Headquarters in Abuja over use of violence by force of arms to retain power in the market by attacking some traders, Uche Eze a.k.a Baba Ido and Izuchukwu Ikeuba, who allegedly wrote petitions against him and members of his task force.

Ikukuoma was said to have become violent after he lost his goodwill and popularity with the traders due to poor leadership and high-handedness, he was said to have resort to violence to retain power. He was alleged to have empowered members of his task force to use force of violence on perceived enemies in the market, which has caused serious tension in the market recently.

The latest manhunt for him was as a result of the brutal attack on Mr. Lotanna Okafor, popularly known as Obi Eziokwu, while he was attempting to attend the General Meeting of the market association. The members of the task force attacked and inflicted injury on him while they also destroyed his expensive medicated glasses in the process.

The Chairman was initially said to have gone to the Tactical team office, was granted an administrative bail and asked to come back with his task force chairman for further investigation over the allegations of armed violence, assault, intimidation and harassment against him by the complainant.

According to the traders, the evidence provided by the complainant was said to be overwhelming against him.
Since then, Chief Onyebinanma was said to have gone into hiding to escape prosecution should he be found culpable in the course of investigation.
Onyebinanma, who is the prime suspect with his task force chairman in the latest petition by Mr. Okafor, was said to have been running helter skelter seeking for help on how to resolve the matter.

He was said to have also gone to a popular Igbo traditional leader in Ijegun area of Lagos seeking for his support and intervention in order to make peace with the aggrieved traders in the market.

According to some of the traders, the embattled Chairman, Ikukuoma, became brutal after he destroyed his good will when he took over and became unpopular in the market while wanting to contest for a second tenure. And having realized that he may likely lose in the coming election, he resorted to violence against perceived opposing traders coupled with the sudden introduction of ID cards issued only to his supporters in order to disenfranchise his opponents.

When the traders and some of the chairmanship aspirants protested, he became brutal and started using members of his task force to harass and intimidate them having marked them as enemies in the market.

Speaking to Naomisophyblog, Onyebinanma, who denied all the allegations, was unable to deny the use of arms such as knives and cutlasses by his task force and preventing known members of the association from attending meetings. He claimed that he introduced the use of data base and ID cards to know their members and for security reasons. However, he was unable to explain why he introduced it especially the ID cards at the period the market wants to conduct an election he is interested in.

He also denied sending any person or the task force to attack Mr. Okafor but acknowledged that Okafor was actually attacked by the task force based on his instruction not to allow members without ID cards to attend meetings.

Chief Ikukuoma stated:

“On 18th July, 2024, when I was about to preside over our monthly meeting, I got a call informing me that some people held a meeting and they were coming to disrupt my own meeting with thugs and cultists.

" I called my task force chairman to explain the matter and insisted that nobody without their ID cards should be allowed to attend the meeting. Later people with machetes, daggers and other weapons started coming out from everywhere."

" My task force protected the market by using their knives and cutlasses to chase them away. Not knowing this was all planned, they snapped them with the knives when they were chasing the thugs. After everything, they wrote a petition to the IRT Abuja, and CP Surulere.”

He also confirmed that he had visited the Tactical team at Surulere and was asked to come back with the task force chairman, but he was unable to go over fear of prosecution according to sources in the market.

Read more on:
https://www.naomisophyblog.com.ng/chairman-of-aguiyi-ironsi-international-spare-parts-market-association-chief-chukwuma-fears-arrest-over-alleged-harassment-violence-on-traders-seek-cover/

Chief Kelechi Oputa Debunks Claims Related to Arrest of Ladipo Market Chairman, Onyebinanma

By Naomi Onome

The Chairmanship aspirant for the Aguiyi Ironsi International Market leadership, Chief Kelechi Oputa a.k.a Baba KC, has debunked claims by the embattled chairman of the market, Chief Chukwuma Onyebinanma, in connection to his arrest following the petition by some aggrieved traders over high handedness and that of members of his task force and unlawful attack on the perceived opposition traders, which is causing crises in the market in Lagos State.

 Naomisophyblog reports that Chief Oputa  noted that he had no relatedness whatsoever with respect to the petition against him and members of his task force and their subsequent arrest.

He maintained that all what the aggrieved traders are demanding from him and his Executives is a free and fair election and for them to desist from intimidating and harassing the traders with the task force in the market.

Chief Oputa further said:

“I was not a party to the petition and did not go to Abuja over the matter. Yet Onyebinanma went on social media mentioning my name in order to tarnish my image just because I declared my intention to contest for the position of chairman of the above mentioned market in the forthcoming election, which is my right as a  law abiding member  of the Aguiyi Ironsi International Market, Ladipo, Lagos State” Chief Oputa said."

" I am known in the market as a peace maker and that was why the traders gave me the title as Ambassador of Peace, for the sacrifices i made to ensure that there is peace in the market after I contested the last election with Onyebinanma and accepted the outcome of the election."

" Let it be known that i contested the last election with Onyebinanma and the electoral committee declared Onyebinanma winner with one vote, which nearly caused trouble in the market over the manner he was declared the winner."

He further explained that in order to avert crisis in the market, he intervened and pleaded with his supporters to accept the result for the interest of peace in the market. He wondered why Onyebinanma should be mentioning his name because he wants to contest for the position of the Chairman in the market, which he had done before with other contestants.

Chief Oputa stated that the contentious issue in the market is that he declared to contest for the position of the Chairman,  which Onyebinanma felt threatened about and started creating selective and  strange membership data base and ID cards for some selected members with the intention of using same as a qualification for voting in the forthcoming election in the market, which has never happened before during elections in the market.

 In his words, “He has started disenfranchising perceived opponents supporters in the market from attending meetings using the said ID card, which he has given to his supporters alone”.

On the issue of petition to the IGP by some aggressive traders, Chief Oputa explained that on the day of their General Meeting, he went for the meeting and they reluctantly allowed him to go in.

However, when the immediate Vice Chairman and Treasurer of the market,  Uche Eze a.k.a Baba Ido and Izuchukwu  Ikeuba, came for the same meeting, the members of the task force refused them entry, manhandled, assaulted and  attacked them with unlawful objects, which led to crises and writing of the petition to the IGP and did not link him.

On the issue of ID cards for the election, Chief Oputa stated that majority of the traders do not want it because it was mainly meant to suit the Chairman’s purpose and the ID cards are given selectively to Onyebinanma’s supporters, which is not acceptable.

He explained that during previous elections in the market, it was usually conducted by shop to shop enumeration, which was also used in the last election, where he was declared the winner.

“But because Onyebinanma has come to realise that he is now very unpopular in  the market due to his bad leadership, he is therefore, trying to devise a means through this his so called data base and ID cards, which are only given to Onyebinanma’s known supporters and it is not acceptable. What we are demanding for is equal rights for all the  traders, who are members of the Aguiyi Ironsi International Market at Ladipo, Lagos State and equal level playing ground for all the contestants and  members at all times and during the conduct of the forthcoming election” Oputa stated.

Chief Chukwuma Onyebinanma was said to have landed in trouble after he started using violence to suppress, harass and intimidate traders with force of arms through his task force, having disappointed the traders, who are the key critical stakeholders for his reelection, with poor and bad leadership in the market.

Read more on:
https://www.naomisophyblog.com.ng/chief-kelechi-oputa-debunks-claims-related-to-arrest-of-ladipo-market-chairman-onyebinanma/

Market Authority Bill To Strengthen Lagos Business Activities - Lawmakers

- bill scales second reading at Lagos Assembly

By Onome Naomi

Majority of the lawmakers at the Lagos State House of Assembly on Tuesday supported the Market Authority Bill currently being considered by the legislators.

The bill scaled second reading on the floor of the House with the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, committing it to the House Committee on Local Government. The committee is expected to report back to the House in two weeks.

The bill, if passed, aims to provide for the registration, formation, organisation and operation of market operations in the State.

Hon. Sanni Okanlawon, chairman of the local government committee, said the bill tries to address some anomalies in the extant law and would make it mandatory for all markets to be duly registered.

His colleague, Rauf Age-Suleiman, noted that the composition of the board of the bill is all-encompassing.

The Deputy Majority Leader, Adedamola Richard Kasunmu, noted that the Iyaloja-General belongs in the Market Advisory Council as captured in the bill. As such, it would amount to dual roles if she is added to the Market Board.

On his part, Hon. Sa'ad Olumoh said the bill makes it mandatory for the appointment of the board members to be ratified by the House. He also noted that the bill would help to scrap situations where traders arbitrarily apportion titles to themselves.

"Clause 18 talks about an advisory board which the Iyaloja-General is going to be heading. That tells us that our Iyaloja is in a better position to give the necessary advice," he said.

While Hon. Stephen Ogundipe said the proposed law would be appreciated by Lagosians, his colleague, Hon. Nureni Akinsanya, urged that the bill should make it necessary for only honest people to gain positions.

Contributing to the debate, Hon. Aro Moshood emphasised that the bill ensures the cleanliness of markets, their effective management and takes care of gridlocks caused by the activities of traders and buyers.

Eromosele Ebhomele, Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly related this report to the press on Tuesday,  September 10, 2024.

Read more on:
https://www.naomisophyblog.com.ng/market-authority-bill-to-strengthen-lagos-business-activities-lawmakers/

NDLEA intercepts UK, Europe-bound cocaine, opioids in female sanitary pads, hair cream

. Destroys over 100,000kg cannabis in Ekiti forest; recovers tons of illicit drugs in Kano, Osun, Taraba, Kaduna, Jigawa, Kogi, Bauchi, and Borno raids

By Onome Naomi

Consignments of cocaine and pharmaceutical opioids concealed in ladies’ sanitary pads and hair treatment cream containers heading to the United Kingdom, Ireland and Cyprus have been intercepted by operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, at three courier firms in Lagos.

In one of the logistics companies, not less than 30 parcels of cocaine weighing 1.1 kilograms were concealed in hair cream containers were recovered by NDLEA officers of the Directorate of Operations and General Investigation, DOGI, during examination of cargoes going to Ireland on Tuesday 3rd September 2024. Another consignment of 24 parcels of cocaine weighing 862 grams also hidden in hair cream containers meant for delivery in UK was equally intercepted at the same company on Friday 6th September.

In the same vein, a total of 525 pills of tramadol 225mg and ecstasy (MDMA) concealed in ladies’ sanitary pads going to Cyprus were seized at another courier firm in Lagos by NDLEA operatives on Tuesday 3rd September, while a shipment of 200 ampoules of promethazine injection and pentazocine injection hidden in food items and herbs heading to London, UK, was also seized by operatives on Wednesday 4th September.

Operatives equally intercepted another consignment of tramadol 225mg buried in granulated melon that came from Cameroon and going to South Africa on Friday 6th September.

No fewer than 550,000 pills of tramadol were also intercepted at the Port Harcourt International Airport, Port Harcourt on Monday 2nd September during a joint examination of a cargo that came from Delhi, India, with men of the Nigerian Customs Service while a suspect was already arrested in connection with the seizure.

In Ekiti state, NDLEA operatives supported by men of the Nigerian Army on Tuesday 3rd and Wednesday 4th September stormed three camps inside the Ise-Ekiti forest reserve, in Ise/Orun local government area where over 100,000 kilograms of cannabis spread across 51 hectares of farm land were destroyed. The affected settlements include: Aba Saalaja with 23 hectares; Aba Paanu with 12 hectares and Aba Arogunmatidi with 16 hectares, all within the Ise-Ekiti forest reserve.

Two suspects: Bala Musa, 42, and Danladi Muhammad, 44, were arrested on Friday 6th September along Toro-Jos road, Kaduna with 305kg cannabis concealed in false compartment of a J5 boxer bus marked YLA 682 XM, while another suspect, Aminu Ayuba, 24 was arrested in possession of 18 kilograms of same substance at Makarfi town. Two others: Umar Usman, 40, and Zubairu Kabiru, 45, were arrested along Zaria- Kaduna highway in possession of 1300 tablets of tramadol, all same day.

In Jigawa state, Uzairu Ya'u, 30, was nabbed with 32.6kg of cannabis on Thursday 5th September at Koran Shehu, while operatives in Kogi on Wednesday 4th September intercepted 77,300 pills of tramadol, diazepam and exol-5 as well as 1,230 bottles of codeine in a commercial bus driven by Attai Okolo, 68, along Aloma - Ejule road, Ofu LGA, Kogi state.

Another suspect, Mohammed Idris, 56, was nabbed along Okene-Lokoja-Abuja expressway on Tuesday 3rd September, with 42.400kg cannabis coming from Lagos enroute Kano.

While NDLEA operatives in Borno state arrested Idris Muhammad, 40, at Ramat area of Maiduguri on Thursday 5th September with 13,100 pills of tramadol, their counterparts in Kano on Wednesday 4th September nabbed Hakilu Usman, 35, with 25.8kg cannabis and 3,000 pills of diazepam along Kano – Daura road.

In Taraba, no fewer than 87,790 pills of tramadol were recovered from Musa Adamu, 30, when he was arrested in Zing, while in Osun state, a raid of the home of a drug kingpin, Mayowa Abayomi Awe (a.k.a Bishop) in Ilesa on Wednesday 4th September led to the seizure of 43grams of crack cocaine, 23grams of methamphetamine, 17.126kg cannabis and a locally made pistol.

With the same vigour, Commands and formations of the Agency across the country continued their War Against Drug Abuse, WADA, sensitization activities to schools, worship centres, work places and communities among others in the past week. These include: WADA enlightenment lecture for students of Kano state Polytechnic, Kano; staff of Don Bosco Science Academy, Ukhun, Ekpoma, Edo state; members of Peace Corps, Osogbo, Osun state; Council of Traditional Rulers, Abakaliki, Ebonyi state; and taxi drivers at Central Motor Park, Sokoto, among others.

While commending the officers and men of DOGI, PHIA, Ekiti, Kano, Osun, Taraba, Kaduna, Jigawa, Kogi, Bauchi, and Borno Commands of the Agency for the arrests and seizures, Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd) noted that their operational successes and those of their compatriots across the country are well appreciated. He urged them not to rest on their oars but continue to intensify ongoing drug supply reduction and drug demand reduction efforts.

Femi Babafemi, Director, Media & Advocacy NDLEA Headquarters, Abuja related this report to the press on Sunday 8th September 2024.

Read more on:
https://www.naomisophyblog.com.ng/ndlea-intercepts-uk-europe-bound-cocaine-opioids-in-female-sanitary-pads-hair-cream/

Police permit required for Nigerian citizens to assemble freely for a demonstration is unconstitutional - Comrade Iche tells Pres. Tinubu

By Onome Naomi

Comrade Prince Saviour Iche draws attention to the recent development regarding the peaceful protest NANS proposed to commence September 15, 2024 and how it is unconstitutional for Pres.Tinubu's administration to require that protesters must obtain permit before demonstration in contrast with section 40 of the 1999 Constitution.

Although, the Forum of Zonal Coordinators of the National Association of Nigerian Students has said that the leadership of the Association will rather commence constructive engagement with the Federal Government and Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited to achieve the reduction of the fuel pump price rather than embark on a demonstration. Warned students across the country against participation in any purported planned protest over the recent increase in fuel price, saying NANS has not called for any protest that hoodlums could hijack.

More also, the Chairman of the Forum, Comrade Bilal Kurfi, sympathized with the student population over the challenges posed by well-intentioned economic policies introduced by President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

In reference to the above, Iche maintains that the Nigeria constitution in corroboration with human rights policy, states that Protesting is a fundamental democratic right that allows citizens to express their grievances and demand change. In Nigeria, this right is explicitly protected by the Constitution, specifically under Section 40 of the 1999 Constitution. This section guarantees every Nigerian citizen the right to assemble freely and associate with others, emphasizing the importance of peaceful assembly.

Iche says, the constitutional basis for protesting in Section 40 of the Nigerian Constitution states:

"Every person shall be entitled to assemble freely and associate with other persons, and in particular he may form or belong to any political party, trade union or any other association for the protection of his interests."

" This provision underlines that Nigerians do not require prior approval or a permit from the police to organize and participate in peaceful protests. The Constitution's framers recognized the importance of allowing citizens to freely express their opinions and assemble without undue interference from the state."

"The right to protest is a cornerstone of democratic engagement and a vital tool for citizens to hold their government accountable. In Nigeria, this right is constitutionally guaranteed, and the landmark case of 'Inspector General of Police v. All Nigeria Peoples Party (2007)' has reinforced that no police permit is required for peaceful assemblies."

" While the practice of notifying the police is aimed at ensuring public safety, it should not be confused with seeking permission. Upholding the constitutional right to protest without undue restrictions is essential for the continued growth of Nigeria's democracy."

Iche further noted that:

" The government is trying the patience of Nigerians by setting certain rules to frustrate the people's right in addressing the odd situation faced leading to untold hardship on the citizens. Our president has no clue or any form of leadership roles and responsibilities neither does he possess empathy on suffering Nigerians."

" Pump price has gradually and steadily increased over some few months, the agreed N70,000 minimum wage has not been put to effect but the presidential private jet of N100bn has been bought to the detriment of the masses's survival especially during this critical time."

" Dangote refinery has commenced operation to roll out fuel but NNPC is busy fixing pump price for Dangote, a very desperate move to further cause hardship on Nigerians."

" August 1st, some civil society groups and other human rights agitators, gave the government a month ultimatum notifying them about the hardship faced by Nigerians yet the gov't have blatantly refused to take heed. Tinubu's administration would rather employ machineries to threaten agitators rather than address the concerns tabled before him."

" Protesters who had peacefully demonstrated were charged for terrorism, our judiciary system has been compromised by butt lickers, our national security is no longer working in the interest of the citizens. The last protest yielded no result so far, things have become worse hence NANS approach to meet with the president over the unlikely situation plaguing the nation."

Lastly Iche warned that Pres. Tinubu's administration is trying to awaken the sleeping dogs. The intimidation, neglect and harassment must stop, the president should also be ready to face the outburst of frustration and fury from Nigerians if concerning issues aren't addressed immediately.

Comrade Prince Saviour Iche
Convener AMPEF ( Voice of the voiceless)

Read more on;

https://www.naomisophyblog.com.ng/police-permit-required-for-nigerian-citizens-to-assemble-freely-for-a-demonstration-is-unconstitutional-comrade-iche-tells-pres-tinubu/

Chief Chukwuma Onyebinanma, Chairman Ladipo Market Leads a Violent Administration, Poor leadership -Traders Allege

...Arrested and moved to abuja for alleged conduct

By Naomisophyblog

The Chairman of Aguiyi Ironsi International  Spare Parts Association at Ladipo Market in Lagos, Chief Chukwuma Onyebinanma, a.k.a Ikukuoma, has landed in trouble after purportedly destroying the good will he had with the traders due to poor leadership and allegedly using violence by force of arms to retain power in the market. 

Naomisophyblog reports that the Inspector General of Police has ordered for an investigation over allegations of using arms to cause violence, harassment and intimidation of traders, who he perceived as opponents in the market.

Thus, Chief Onyebinanma was arrested following the order of the IGP by the IRT team led by Mr. Sanusi in Lagos and subsequently moved to the Force Headquarters in Abuja for interrogation over his alleged conduct.

Unknown to Ikukuoma, the Police intelligence from IRT Abuja had monitored him for several days and confirmed the allegations of his executives empowering his task force team with arms such as knives and cutlasses and consequently arrested and detained him at the Lagos State Police Command.

While the Police team was about to fly him to Abuja, he became shivery, developed serious health challenges and he was allowed to go home for treatment before he went to Abuja over the allegations by some traders.

According to some of the traders,  Ikukuoma destroyed his good will when he took over and became unpopular in the market. He wanted to contest for second tenure and have realized that he may likely lose in the coming election.

He was alleged to have resorted to intimidating and harassing known opponents and introduced the use of fresh ID, which he used to disenfranchise his opponents.

Following the alleged threat of violence,  intimidation and harassment, the group led by Chief Kelechi Oputa, popularly known as Baba KC, wrote the petition and Chief Onyebinanma was arrested.

The real challenge for Ikukuoma now is that the complainants in their petition insisted that he should be charged before Court based on the overwhelming evidence against him and he is seeking the assistance of the market’s BOT to rescue him and persuade the complainants to make peace.

This was confirmed by Onyebinanma, who however, denied all the allegations but what he was unable to deny was the use of arms such cutlasses by his task force and preventing known members of the association from attending meetings.

Narrating what happened, Chief Ikukuoma stated:

“In February, 2024, I had already  informed the members last year that every monthly meetings as a rule – will be paying your dues and obtaining your ID card and all gates will be closed. You either show your ID card and your receipt otherwise you will not be able to participate in the meetings. We continued to close the gate to defaulters every other month after February except for June when we didn’t hold meeting”.

“On July 18th when I was about to preside over our monthly meeting, I got a call informing me that some people held a meeting and they were coming to disrupt my meeting with thugs and cultists. I called my task force chairman to explain the matter and insisted that nobody without their ID cards should be allowed to attend the meeting. Later people with machetes, daggers started coming out from everywhere. Members of my task force protected the market by carrying their knives and cutlasses to chase them away. Not knowing this was all planned, they snapped them with the knives when they were chasing the thugs. After everything, they wrote a petition to IRT Abuja, and Police in Surulere. They came to my house to arrest me. We went to the headquarters at Ikeja and in 2 days I was asked to come to Abuja. I debunked their allegations and explained why I introduced the use of ID cards, which was for security reasons.”

However, some of the traders who spoke to Naomisophyblog said he introduced the ID cards for the election and Chief Kelechi Oputa is a very popular in the market and has planned using it to disenfranchise his supporters, which he denied.

Efforts to reach Chief Oputa was not successful. But It was gathered that he has top critical stakeholders in the market supporting him including the two former President Generals of Ladipo Market, Uchenna Eze a.k.a Baba Ido, Izuchukwu Ikeuba, Lotanna Okafor,  Casmir Ulasi, among others.

Read more on:
https://www.naomisophyblog.com.ng/chief-chukwuma-onyebinanma-chairman-ladipo-market-leads-a-violent-administration-poor-leadership-traders-allege/

PRESIDENT TINUBU’S CONSUMER CREDIT SCHEME KICKS OFF WITH CIVIL SERVANTS NATIONWIDE

Onome Naomi

The Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation (CREDICORP) has kicked off disbursement of consumer credit to economically active Nigerians nationwide, through its growing list of participating financial institutions (PFIs).

In this first wave of institutions is Credit Direct, Nigeria’s largest lender to civil servants nationwide, and a subsidiary of the FCMB Group. At a signing event today, CREDICORP announced the partnership with Credit Direct to accelerate mass access to consumer credit starting with civil servants across the country.

Beginning this September, this kickoff offers discounted direct consumer credit to over 15,000 civil servants per round. Civil servants on IPPIS now benefit from exclusive offers with reduced interest rates and flexible repayment plans for purchase of domestic goods, mobility, medical care, electronics and other household needs. The initiative is part of a much broader effort to support the well-being of Nigerians, which aligns with CREDICORP’s mission to accelerate consumer credit access to 50% of economically active Nigerians by 2030."We are excited to partner with Credit Direct to kick off President Tinubu’s consumer credit scheme with civil servants as Mr. President had promised," said Uzoma Nwagba, CEO of CREDICORP. "By going through Credit Direct today, and subsequently our other financial institutions coming on stream in the next days and weeks as we target 500,000 civil servants, they can access instant and affordable credit to cushion economic shocks or afford consumer goods to improve the quality of their lives.

This is just the start of a long and exciting journey with many parts, and linkages that ultimately catalyse local industries as we expand consumption.”Chukwuma Nwanze, CEO of Credit Direct, emphasized the importance of the partnership in fostering financial inclusion. "Our civil servants are vital to the nation's growth and stability, and we are committed to supporting them with accessible credit facilities. This partnership with CREDICORP allows us to extend our services to more individuals, ensuring that all civil servants can access the funds they need quickly and easily, up to N3.5 million depending on their income and need.

Over the past 17 years, Credit Direct has positively impacted the lives of millions of customers across Nigeria. With a presence in all 36 states, including the Federal Capital Territory, through branches and digital channels, we continue to serve working-class Nigerians nationwide.”Key Features of the Credit Offer:- Lowest Interest Rates: Starting from September 3, 2024, civil servants will access loans at lowest interest rates on the market. Applicants can access a wide range, and up to N3.5 million, depending on their income and need.- Flexible Repayment Plans: Customized repayment schedules designed to meet the unique needs of each borrower.- Quick and Easy Application Process: Streamlined procedures ensure fast access to funds, making it easier for civil servants to manage their financial needs. For more information about the special credit offer and eligibility criteria, please visit www.creditdirect.ng or contact the customer service center at 0700CREDITDIRECT, 02014482225, 0201700512.About CREDICORPThe Nigeria Consumer Credit Corporation (CREDICORP) is a government-owned development finance institution committed to enhancing consumer credit access for Nigerians.

By addressing structural barriers and providing capital, guarantees, policy support and cultural reorientation, CREDICORP works towards an economically inclusive Nigeria where every working citizen can build personal equity and access essential consumer credit to improve the quality of their lives.

Nigeria Taekwondo Community Unite at 3rd FCT Unity TKD Cup

By Onome Naomi

The 3rd FCT Unity TKD Cup, Nigeria's premier civil-military sports event, has successfully concluded, leaving an indelible mark on the country's taekwondo landscape. Held at the state-of-the-art HQ DAPT Multipurpose Indoor Gymnasium in Giri, FCT, Abuja, the two-day tournament brought together 187 athletes from 19 clubs across Nigeria, fostering unity, excellence and growth in the sport.


According to Ogunmuyiwa Gbolahan, Chairman of the Organising Committee, the event's primary objective was to "bridge the technical gap between elite and amateur taekwondo athletes in Nigeria." This goal was achieved through the provision of a platform for emerging poomsae and kyorugi athletes to hone their skills, thereby enhancing their competitiveness.

The tournament's focus on technical development is particularly significant, given Nigeria's growing presence in international taekwondo competitions. By nurturing homegrown talent, the country can increase its chances of producing world-class athletes.

The 2024 edition of the FCT Unity TKD Cup marked several significant milestones. Notably, adult competitors participated in the seniors category for the first time, expanding the tournament's scope and providing a more comprehensive competitive experience.

The introduction of electronic taekwondo sparring for seniors, juniors and cadet competitors was another notable innovation. This technology enhanced the accuracy and efficiency of the competition, aligning Nigeria's taekwondo events with global standards.

Other notable achievements included accommodation for referees and the Main Organising Committee on-site, ensuring seamless event management; and the utilisation of two courts throughout the tournament, streamlining the competition.

The event also celebrated 50 years of taekwondo in Nigeria (1974-2024), highlighting the sport's growth and impact on the country's athletic landscape. This milestone underscores the dedication and perseverance of Nigeria's taekwondo community.

The participation of a university team, courtesy of GM Sirajo Yusuf, Director of Sports, Federal University Lokoja, marked another significant first. This development signals the expanding reach of taekwondo in Nigeria's educational institutions.

Nigeria Army emerged the overall winner on the medals table with 7 gold medals. The tournament equally honoured outstanding athletes with prestigious awards. The Most Valuable Player (MVP) Awards recognised exceptional performances in various categories.

In the kids category, Victor Martins and Crown Umeh emerged the top male and female; while Chijioke Kalu and Unique Umeh were top Teens. Others were Benjamin Okuomose and Eno Mfon James (Adults); as Ameh Emmanuella and Progress Kebonkwu emerged top Cadet and Junior Female for the Youths Empowerment Foundation Award.

The FCT TSCON Awards recognised outstanding contributions to taekwondo development such as Taekwondo Father of the Year: Pharm. Ameh S. Ameh;
Taekwondo Mother of the Year: Barr (Mrs) Idada; Taekwondo Boy of the Year: Daniel Gashinbaki; and Taekwondo Girl of the Year: Igweike Olisanyelu.

The event also recognised notable figures who have contributed to the growth of taekwondo in Nigeria, including: Gen CG Musa, Chief of Defence Staff; Lt Gen TA Lagbaja, Chief of Army Staff; Brig Gen AR Bello, Director of Army Physical Training, GM Dominic Bassey, most senior TKD Pioneer in Nigeria, GM Abdulmumin Yusuf, VP Nigeria Taekwondo Black Belt College and GM Abdullahi Saidu Baba, president, Nigeria Taekwondo Federation.

The 3rd FCT Unity TKD Cup has set the stage for future taekwondo competitions in Nigeria, promoting unity, excellence and growth in the sport. As Nigeria's taekwondo community continues to thrive, events like this tournament will play a vital role in shaping the country's athletic future.

The tournament's success is a testament to the dedication of Nigeria's taekwondo community and the support of key stakeholders. As the sport continues to grow, Nigeria's athletes will undoubtedly make their mark on the international stage.

Read more on:
https://www.naomisophyblog.com.ng/nigeria-taekwondo-community-unite-at-3rd-fct-unity-tkd-cup/

Eze Chika Nwokedi fires back at Jonathan Nnaji, says he hijacked his position as BoT chairman Igbo speaking to extort Ezes in Lagos.

Eze Chika Nwokedi fires back at Jonathan Nnaji BoT Chairman Igbo speaking community for calling Ndieze-Igbos who refuse to be extorted by him unauthentic.

... Insists Jonathan hijacked the position of chairmanship of BoT without being elected.

By Onome Naomi

In response to the recent publication inciting that Ezeship in Igbo speaking is subject to authentication with the BoT chairman of the Igbo speaking community and those who refuse are further disowned, Eze Chika Nwokedi, chairman of the Council of Ndieze-Igbo, fires back at the BoT chairman Jonathan Nnaji, says according to the law guiding the institution, Nnaji has aired and must be addressed. 

Eze Chika Nwokedi, in his statements revealed that the leadership council of the Igbo-speaking Board of Trustees comprises fourteen decision-makers; nine of these members are dead, with five remaining. Three out of the remaining five leaders alive who are above 80 years of age has retired to their home town but two are here in Lagos, which is; the treasurer of the group of trustees, Jonathan Nnaji the youngest of them all, who now claims to be the chairman, and one other who is also about 80 years of age.

He further said,

"It should be noted, as stated in the constitution, that when a member dies, there should be a replacement by election, but none of this was conducted; instead, Jonathan Nnaji cunningly installed himself as chairman from the position of secretary to extort Ezes in the name of authentication."

"The original chairman now late is Chief Uche Chukwuka, who died 16 years ago. I, Eze Chika Nwokedi, joined the Igbo-speaking community through the late chairman in 1999. The late chairman is my mentor and from Enugu State, which means that the next chairman cannot come from Enugu State."

"Jonathan Nnaji, the current acclaimed chairman of the BoT Igbo-speaking community, is from Enugu State and has gone against the constitution, which states that chairmanship should be rotated amongst the eastern zone; that makes his position null and void."

"Nonetheless, assuming the chairmanship role of BoT wouldn't have been a hullabaloo, but for his extortionist nature of wanting all Ezes to authenticate Ezeship with the sum of N250,000 and a goat. This recent development is considered inappropriate and fraudulent to well-meaning members of the council who have diligently assumed roles and responsibilities that come with rulership in accordance with constitutional rights, hence the decline in authenticating under Jonathan's leadership. I am stating this clearly: that my kingship position is borne out of my lineage and cannot be annulled by an impostor."

"Moreso, the leadership assertions made by Jonathan Nnaji can never be implemented on Ezes, for he is not considered or regarded as BoT chairman Igbo speaking unless the Board of Trustees is reformed and zoned accordingly."

Eze Chika Nwokedi added that this tussle orchestrated by the greedy leadership of Igbos in Lagos who should stand in unity is the reason indigenous people of Lagos and other tribes fester on making inciting statements about the Igbos. He added that the council is working on separating the wheat from the chaff by screening out Ezes without affinity, also Eze-Igbo's re-authentication in Lagos, leading to factionalism, will not be accepted by the council.

 Read more on:
https://www.naomisophyblog.com.ng/eze-chika-nwokedi-fires-back-at-jonathan-nnaji-says-he-hijacked-position-as-bot-chairman-igbo-speaking-community-to-extort-ezes-in-lagos/

Assessment of President Tinubu's Administration So Far - Comrade Prince Saviour Iche

.... And who is to blame for the nation's concerns

By Onome Naomi

Comrade Prince Saviour Iche , Founder " Voice Of The Voiceless Media" and Ambassadors of Peace and Enlightenment Foundation (AMPEF)

Comrade Prince Saviour Iche, Ambassador for the 'Voice of the Voiceless' relays his thoughts in assessment of President Tinubu's administration and whom should be held accountable for the absurd situation overwhelming the nation.

In summation, Iche alleged that, the president's subordinates are incapable and fraudulent in preserving the nation's wealth and reserves. Iche noted that leadership entails that a person must possess wisdom in handling situations, responsible for actions taken and must be accountable devoid of maneuver or ineptitude.

In his assessment, he said;

"The situation in Nigeria is calling for urgent attention, Bola Ahmed Tinubu is the president of Nigeria and we have accepted him as our reality."

" Nigerians should not forget that; we have serving governors by election, ministers by nomination, senators, House of Representative, Local Government Chairmen, Special Advisers put in the place of power to represent the masses. They stand as intermediary between the president and the people. They are appointed to look into situations and give appropriate feed back to the President."

" The governors of the 36 states of the federation are serving governors entitled to federal allocations of approximately N30bn asides internally generated revenues from states. A sensible governor can utilize this allocations to provide basic amenities and fix bad roads."

" The Senators asides deliberating insensitive matters, are given allocations for earmarked projects yet no score card. All they do is wine and dine, syphon cash from federal purse , secretly acquire properties home and abroad, use federal allocations meant for their district as personal funds to lavish, start projects and leave it as an unfinished task in wait for the next administration to inherit without taking care of issues in their senatorial districts like street lights, road projects and the rest. Nigerians sees some of this senators as a failure to the state."

"These senators are former governors who still want the seat of power to further grab the nation's resources as retirement packages."

"It is rather unfortunate that President Tinubu bears all the blame, meanwhile a thorough assessment shows that his subordinates are responsible for the nation's retrogression. When palliatives was distributed to states, the governors didn't give the people what was allocated, they hid some for themselves and their families. The president is not as bad as it seems, he's made some mistakes but the ability to retrace his steps and put things right is what matters."

" Moreso, the EFCC is also not up and doing in its service to the nation, the EFCC needs to start fishing out the real fraudulent acts not chase after shadows. Mr. President should give the EFCC autonomy to fish out corrupt politicians squandering the nation's wealth and resources. A serving minister as alleged by an Internet content creator bought three houses in Canada in a space of one year to settle his kids. Is this not an alert for the EFCC to work on?

"Serving Local government chairmen also sit around and do nothing but embezzle allocations as well as internal revenue, this appointees should be accountable for their greedy actions, they should be called in by EFCC to account for launder."

My advice to Mr President;

Sack ministers that are not accountable. Allow young vibrant minds assume these roles to perform better. Do not continue to recycle same old incapable hands, leverage on using sharp minds that can create solutions not lazy around.

The FCT minister and his aids, finance minister, the CBN governor who ensures policies that weaken the economy should be relieved off their duties and replaced with young, intelligent persons who can help make good policies.

Mr President should dissolve the immunity protecting political leaders from EFCC scrutiny for this is the time to take the right step towards restoring Nigeria.

Read more on:
https://www.naomisophyblog.com.ng/assessment-of-president-tinubus-administration-so-far-comrade-prince-saviour-iche/

Eze Chika Nwokedi celebrates yeartide with friends and associates at 52. 

... As the Ndigbo Buru'Otu Association of Nigeria celebrates all August born

By Onome Naomi

The glamorous two-day celebration observed on the 3rd and 4th of August, 2024, to commemorate August's birth, as orchestrated by Eze Chika Nwokedi, Ezendigbo Ijegun Ijeododo, Chairman Council of 'Ndieze' Lagos, and President of the Ndigbo Buru'Otu Association of Nigeria, attracted dignitaries from all walks of life.

Naomi Sophy Blog reports that the first round of activities on the 3rd of August, 2024, by the Ndigbo Buru'Otu Association of Nigeria to celebrate all August born took place at the association's secretariat in Ijegun Lagos with over a hundred members in attendance.

Meanwhile, Eze Chika's birthday anniversary was celebrated on Sunday, 4th August, 2024, and was well attended by many notable VIPs. They include: AIG Zone 2 Command Onikan, ably represented by DCP Martin Nworgu; Seriki of Alimosho and his cabinet; Baale of Ijeododo High Chief Abu-Jelili Ayinde Ododo and his cabinet chiefs; CSP Vera of Ejigbo Police Division; some Igbo traditional rulers; close friends and associates.

The highlight of both events includes a raffle draw where members selected various gift items according to their win. There was also music, traditional dances, the cutting of cake by August borns, and other recreational activities.

Speaking with the Chief Celebrant, Eze Chika Nwokedi, he revealed that August is considered his lucky month in the year, for every significant achievement he's made so far in life happens in the month of August. He also noted that, in magnanimity, he's decided to make this year's anniversary special by creating a 2-day event to allow the opportunity for other August born under his rulership to be celebrated.

Mr. Ifeanyi Anthony, the African representative of SBI Limited, producers of Allemax products, stated its representatives are majorly in attendance to honor the chief celebrant, Eze Chika Nwokedi, who happens to be a brand ambassador for Allemax. He revealed that the company is showcasing its brand at the event to help Nigerians discover the potency of Allemax health products, which serve as stimulators to revive dead and weak cells in the body. According to Mr. Ifeanyi, the products are used for tackling prostate issues, insomnia, hypertension, typhoid, and malaria, as well as other ailments.

Accolades from well-wishers

DCP Martin Nworgu:

Eze Chika Nwokedi, Ezendigbo Ijegun Ijeododo, Chairman Council of 'Ndieze' Lagos, is a man of the people; his magnanimous self has endeared him to many; the Nigerian Police is proud of his achievements so far; he doesn't discriminate. Here's wishing him a long life in good health and happiness.

Seriki of Alimosho:

Eze Chika is a friend to all; he should continue his good works. May God bless his new age.

Queen Kemi Oni, Ambassador for Prestige Group:

The chief celebrant, Eze Chika, is loving, caring, accommodating, and a disciplinarian; he will live long to celebrate more fruitful years.

Attestation and wishes from some executives and members of the Ndigbo Buru'Otu Association 

Hon. Chief Mrs. Rufina Emedurunwa says:

"Eze Okpoko is a man with a good heart; he doesn't give what he does not have.
He is generous, kind, compassionate, and loving. He responds when called upon, wishing him long life, more wisdom to guide his people, and financial blessings to enhance his magnanimous act."

Rev. Dr. Moses CC Okwuosa, the second vice president of the Ndigbo Buru'Otu Association of Nigeria, says: 

"I give God the glory in the life of Eze Chika; he has touched lives, and God is blessing him for all he keeps doing; he has sown in the lives of many by giving. May God continue to bless him more."

Dr. Godswill Ogbuka, the 1st Vice President of Ndigbo Buru'Otu, says, "Eze Chika is a good man; he runs selfless service to the public. We are gathered here in our numbers to celebrate his 52nd birthday in grand style. He doesn't discriminate; he's a born leader. Wishing him good health and a long life 

Chief Urukanachukwu, one of Eze Chika's cabinet chiefs, described the celebrant as compassionate and a philanthropist, wishes him the very best life has to offer.

Read Also:Igbo group tasks Lagos state government on quelling the disunity fueled by indigene against Igbo dwellers in the state

Lastly, Pst Tessy Chika Nwokedi, the wife of the chief celebrant, wishes her husband long life, describes him as a charming man she is endeared to for his act of giving, and reveals they share the same beliefs when it comes to magnanimity. She also noted that her husband made it a mandatory act to help others grow, a reason he's attracted so many well wishes on his birthday anniversary.

See reports to view more photos from the
event:

https://www.naomisophyblog.com.ng/eze-chika-nwokedi-celebrates-yeartide-with-friends-and-associates-at-52/

CREDICORP: 151 Financial Institutions Show Interest Before Credit Disbursements

By Ifeoma Ikem

As the recently established Nigeria Consumer Credit Corporation (CREDICORP) advances towards disbursement of consumer credit to Nigerians, sequel to the success on its recent Expression of Interest (EOI) campaign for financial institutions, no fewer than 151 organisations have indicated interest.

The CREDICORP is a Federal Government corporation with a mandate to expand consumer credit access to millions of Nigerians. In just one month, over 151 financial institutions have completed the detailed EOI. This includes commercial banks, microfinance institutions, finance companies, fintechs, mortgage banks, and cooperatives.

Notably, 85 of these institutions are licensed by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), collectively serving over 1.5 million consumer credit customers. Qualified and ready institutions are being reviewed and shortlisted for the pilot phase of the scheme, according to information from management of the Corporation.

The eagerness of financial institutions to partner with CREDICORP highlights the strategic vision and immense benefits of targeted consumer credit under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, on a mission to improve quality of lives, help stem corruption, and catalyse industry.

The Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of CREDICORP, Mr. Uzoma Nwagba of CREDICORP, has expressed his enthusiasm saying: “The EOI remains an ongoing process and is quite detailed. We are pleased by the depth of engagements from financial institutions – especially the leading institutions of each type.

"This speaks to the excitement of financial institutions to partner with CREDICORP to receive our development finance or targeted credit guarantees. Together with our partners, we are poised to accelerate consumer credit access, ensuring that millions more Nigerians can access the financial resources and products they need to improve their lives, backed by their income.”

From a recent report released by the Corporation on the EOI’s so far, here are other notable highlights on consumer credit by the CBN-licensed institutions:

"Average Interest Rate: The participating institutions report an average interest rate of
37% per annum on their consumer credit portfolios. This strengthens CREDICORP’s resolve in designing financial products with its partners to enable lower but sustainable rates on an ongoing basis.

Average Tenor: The institutions report an average tenor for consumer credit of 26 months, indicating a growing appetite for lending over extended periods. This contrasts with less formal lenders which may focus on shorter tenors to leverage faster turnover of capital.

Average NPLs: The consumer credit portfolios for profitable institutions show an average NPL of 6%, while the average NPL across all other credit is 9%. The commercial banks show a reverse pattern from the average (i.e. higher NPLs on consumer credit than other credit), likely due to a wider range of options to deploy their capital (e.g. corporates) and therefore deepened focus and expertise in those.

These findings underscore the dynamic nature of the consumer credit market in Nigeria and the need for continued innovation and support to ensure its sustainable growth. CREDICORP will proceed to review the submissions from Participating Financial Institutions (PFIs) in line with its governance and eligibility criteria – in preparation for disbursements to commence shortly.

The EOI for Financial Institutions remains open for submissions, and can be accessed at the Corporation’s website (www.credicorp.ng).

AMPEF kicks off maiden edition of empowerment program for over 70 youths in Alimosho

...Sensitize parents on the importance of skill acquisition

By Onome Naomi

Ambassadors of Peace and Enlightenment Foundation commences the maiden edition of a 3 months empowerment program for primary, secondary and senior secondary school leavers on Saturday August 3rd, 2024 in Ijegun axis of Lagos state.

The training program is meant to enable the young ones acquire extra skills outside school curriculum to foster independence and self sustainability. The empowerment also cut across acquiring knowledge, imbibing the drive for productivity and impartation unto others knowledge received.

AMPEF is offering skill acquisition in Hair making, Beading, Makeup, Knitting, ICT training etc. Over 70 participants who showed interest will be tutored objectively and practically for 3 months. Thereafter, the participants will be awarded with certificates while the most outstanding trainees will be given a grant as start up capital.

At the kick off event, parents of the youths who qualified for the Empowerment program were sensitized on the importance of skill acquisition for their wards. Engr. Adesina Israel, chairman of progressive CDA enlightened the parents on why self sustainability is paramount for the young ones as well as their parents, he emphasized that the children who have learnt practically can also pass on the knowledge to their sit at home mothers. Moreso, skill acquisition gears a child towards being self reliant financially to ease the burden off their parents while still in school.

Speaking with the CDA chairman of Progressive, Engr. Adesina Isreal accompanied by his excos, he noted that the initiative orchestrated by the convener of AMPEF Comrade Prince Saviour Iche is going to be very productive. Says, the vocational program will help the young ones drive towards sustainability, a much needed experience to ease off hardship currently faced by Nigerians. The government he says cannot afford to employ every jobless Nigerian, hence the need to acquire a vocational skill and become enterprising is sacrosanct.

Engr. Adesina Israel also told parents during the sensitization program that the most outstanding child will be empowered with a grant as start up capital to encourage excellence. Commended Comrade Prince Saviour Iche for his thoughtfulness, described him as an excellent compatriot dedicated to seeking a better society.

Naomi Sophy Blog reports that Comrade Prince Saviour Iche the organiser of the skill acquisition program had tagged the 3 months empowerment program "Catch Them Young" implying that it is important to train the young ones with vocational trainings practically for multiple streams of income leading to self dependance.

In an interview with the media, Comrade Iche mentioned that education in Nigeria is sub standard compared to other countries as they dwell more on theories rather than embrace practical method of teaching. In this regard, an average student tutored through primary, secondary and university finishes school but has limited knowledge on survival techniques. He says the program is meant to interject such occurrences by enhancing young individuals, the children can earn while still in school.

He also stated that the vocational program will run through August to November only on Saturdays and will not clash with normal school activities, revealed the age brackets for trainees is 8 - 18 years of age. More also, the program is self sponsored but will be enhanced if the government and private sponsors can put resources into bettering this course. There is plan under way to extend the skill acquisition program to other local governments of Lagos state, Iche added.

Read more on:
https://www.naomisophyblog.com.ng/ampef-kicks-off-maiden-edition-of-empowerment-program-for-over-70-youths-in-alimosho/

Nationwide Protest: Speaker Obasa Says Lagosians Truly Deserve Commendation

By Onome Naomi

Speaker Mudashiru Obasa of the Lagos State House of Assembly has described the peace experienced in the state amid a nationwide protest as commendable.

Dr. Obasa, who applauded the peaceful conduct of the protesters in Lagos, the South-West region and major parts of Nigeria, specifically praised citizens for hearkening to the voice of reason and wisdom.

In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Eromosele Ebhomele, the Speaker observed that the protesters mostly carried out their actions in accordance with the law allowing residents go about their activities in peace.

"The conduct of Lagosians since the nationwide protest began on Thursday is worthy of emulation. While many residents heeded the voice of reason and stayed away, those who decided to publicly express their grievances did so within the confines of the law.

"These grievances have been noted and I am convinced that the state and federal governments are not folding their arms in relation to making Lagos and Nigeria greater than we are currently witnessing.

"President Bola Tinubu is championing policies that ultimately have the tendency to move Nigeria to the level we all anticipate. In the meantime, he has taken steps to mitigate the challenge of food shortage upon which the protest is hinged.

"In Lagos, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu with the support of the House of Assembly under my speakership, has provided roadmaps for more developments aside sustaining standards," Dr. Obasa said.

The Speaker noted that apart from touching every part of the state, Governor Sanwo-Olu's administration has continued to implement strategies to reduce hunger, especially with the Sunday Markets where there is a 25 percent discount on all major food items and which will soon be revived.

"The state government has made further promises to continue extending the dividends of democracy to residents. The Medical Outreach programme through which many enjoy free treatments, the free delivery for pregnant women and the slash in fares on government transportation facilities are some other actions being taken by the government," Obasa said.

He assured that the House would not only collaborate with the executive arm to ensure that residents keep enjoying the administration, the legislative arm would continue to stand as one hope of the people of Lagos.

The Speaker, who had earlier met and secured the promises of residents of Agege not to participate in the protest, further thanked law enforcement agents in the state for conducting themselves professionally in the maintenance of law and order just as he praised religious leaders, traditional and community heads, development and related associations, market leaders and artisans for their understanding and support of the government.

Eromosele Ebhomele, Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly related this report to the press on Friday August 2nd, 2024.

Read more on;
https://www.naomisophyblog.com.ng/nationwide-protest-speaker-obasa-says-lagosians-truly-deserve-commendation/

Igbo group tasks Lagos state government on quelling the disunity fueled by indigene against Igbo dwellers in the state

By Onome Naomi

The Ndigbo Buru'Otu Association of Nigeria, an Igbo socio-cultural and business-oriented organization, converged to address the press over the accusations and intimidation leveraged against the Igbo dwellers in Lagos State. Tasks Lagos state government on a redress to quel disunity fueled by the state's indigenous people.

Eze Dr. Chika Nwokedi, Eze Okpoko 1, founder of the Ndigbo Buru'Otu Association of Nigeria, expressed in his statements concerns over the disunity amongst tribes in Lagos State. He narrated instances of events in recent times, especially during demonstrations that had portrayed the Igbos in a bad light before the public.

In his statements, he said:

" I am making this press statement as a result of the situation I witnessed during the security meeting attended by traditional leaders and stakeholders of Alimosho local government held at the Idimu police division and other instances where threat filled utterances and some unlikely actions is targeted at the igbos."

"During the meeting, different Yoruba leaders gave opinions insinuating that Igbos have plans to bomb and destroy lagos if their peace is threatened and I stood to correct their notion."

" Last year, before the general elections, many indigens said that the Igbos want to take over Lagos and destroy the state.Then I began to wonder why the Igbos will want to destroy a state they have established investments in."

" The situation arising from disunity is very disturbing to me, we should be talking peace not war. They have pushed Igbos to the limit yet we do not want war with our landlords. The Igbos will never claim to own Lagos as we are respectable persons who have established businesses and homes as dwellers. "

" We should unite and not be treated with segregation, the igbos are tagged with all manner of unprintable names showing discord and hate. Igbos as seen is not part of the protest #endbadgovernance, yet there were threats from the indigenous people of Lagos state via public address by some persons on a van noting that any Igbo who participates in the protest will have his or her businesses burnt down. Note, that this threat was exacted on only the Igbos excluding other tribes."

" No Igbo person likes to cause chaos, we are peaceful people who believes in doing businesses and develop our surroundings, there are some non- indigenous people in our terrain back in the east especially the Yoruba tribe but we are in peaceful coexistence with them.

" I am urging Yoruba leaders ( oba and baale) to desist from sowing seed of discord amongst tribes especially the Igbos to avoid occurrences that might further foster disunity. We should be at peace and disallow disunity amongst us for we are one in flesh and blood."

"If we go to a blood bank as donators to save a life, the doctor in charge does not ask for your tribe but carries out a screening test to make it useable by a patient, why then do we see ourselves as enemies when the colour of our blood is same."

" The election has come and gone and Bola Ahmed Tinubu is now our president, our main focus should be to pray for his successful administration. As a philanthropist, I also urge other well-to-do Nigerians to assist the less privileged that the current hardship has affected deeply. Mr. President should in his capacity proffer solutions over the plight of suffering Nigerians to quel the demonstration."

Chief Ifeanyi Iguegbe, the secretary of the association, stated that the stigmatism targeted at the Igbos is a case-sensitive issue as it involves threats and shows of hate, discord, and unsafety. He said in a WhatsApp message that was passed around the internet, a certain anonymous speaker noted that the Igbos must all leave Lagos by August 20 or another protest will ensue to send them packing. Note that the Igbos have contributed immensely to the growth and development of Lagos State; our accommodators should understand that we are one. The threats and hate speeches should be seize; Nigerians can reside anywhere in the country, he added. 

Rev. Dr. Moses CC Okwuosa, the second vice president of the Ndigbo Buru'Otu Association of Nigeria, commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and all the arms of government for working assiduously to better Nigeria. He said Igbos are also residents of Lagos and will do everything humanly possible to protect their interests and the interests of the Lagos state government; hence, unity should be ensured, especially by religious leaders. The government is tasked with ensuring good roads and uninterrupted electricity with lesser tariffs to promote growth and development, not create a hullabaloo about the existence of Igbos in the state. 

Lastly, the convener of the conference, Eze Chika Nwokedi, advises Igbo dwellers in Lagos to desist from being boastful about wealth and achievements and avoid careless utterances that could fuel hate from indigens of the state. The main focus for Igbos should be their businesses as well as maintaining the laws of the state so as to avoid conflict with the accommodators.

Nationwide Protest: Lagos Speaker, Agege Leaders Meet Residents

- say Agege enjoying democratic dividends

- religious leaders, traditional rulers say no to protest

By Onome Naomi

The Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, and other leaders in the Agege area of Lagos met on Wednesday emphasising the need for unity, resilience and patience as the country anticipates a nationwide protest.

The leaders also met with various youth groups in the area reminding them that President Bola Tinubu is working to resolve the challenges facing Nigeria.

The 10-day protest is expected to commence on Thursday, August 1, 2024, but Dr. Obasa said Agege is a special part of Lagos where residents have experienced democratic dividends, especially in the area of infrastructure which has boosted businesses.

The Speaker urged the leaders to advise and plead with their children and other residents against engaging in any activity that could incite violence in the state.

"We are enjoying the dividends of democracy in Agege especially and our governor is trying for us. There are a lot of developmental projects ongoing in Agege. If the government is doing all these, why would any of us want to be combative against the government?

"The world is just coming out of COVID-19 and there are global crises and wars. So it is not just about Nigeria. If you go to Sudan, close to us here, landlords have forgone their homes. Libya was once like a European country, go there today. We all need to be patient.

"Our pastors and Imams here, we should teach messages of peace, unity and patience every time we preach especially at this time.

"Inflation is a general issue, it is not isolated. The President is seriously working on it. He is just one year in office and this is too short to resolve all the problems," Obasa told the stakeholders including religious and traditional leaders, heads of markets, civil society groups, artisans and community development associations.

On his part, Wale Ahmed, a member of the House of Representatives, emphasised the unity in Agege while expressing optimism that the youth would not be part of a protest that has a tendency to escalate into violence.

"Even if those participating in the protest try to provoke you, just ignore," he told the gathering.

The chairmen of the two local government councils in the area, Chief Ganiyu Egunjobi and Johnson Babatunde, reiterated the need for the residents to protect government infrastructure adding that this can be done with their non-participation in the protest.

Egunjobi recalled the last EndSARS protest that resulted in the burning of vehicles and other infrastructures.

"Police stations were set ablaze and the guns were taken away.

"So, let us all speak to ourselves and understand ourselves. The President is just a year in office," he said.

The Alaige of Agege, Oba Ambaliu Agbedeyi, who spoke on behalf of traditional rulers, said Agege is lucky to have good political leaders who have the interests of the residents at heart.

He prayed against any evil plots against their domains.

Eromosele Ebhomele,Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly related this report to the press on Wednesday July 31st, 2024.

Read more on:
https://www.naomisophyblog.com.ng/nationwide-protest-lagos-speaker-agege-leaders-meet-residents/

Nationwide Protest: Religious leaders, Patriarchs, now talks out of both sides of their mouths, cannot speak for the masses—Iche alleges


By Onome Naomi

Comrade Prince Saviour Iche, a human rights activist, expresses concerns over the ambiguous position of the elders, religious leaders, and royal fathers in our society and their inability to defend the masses by addressing the present administration on the dire situation plaguing Nigerians.

He noted that over time, religious leaders especially have shifted focus from propagating the gospel to joining politics for personal gains seen as an entanglement to further bear falsehood rather than stand by the truth. Some he says will rather 'sit on the fence' than address the Nigerian government on hardship overtaking the nation hence a trigger for the demonstration slated to commence on 1st, August, 2024.

Iche further speaks :

"There is fire on the mountain and no one is running. Nigeria is heading towards an unrepairable situation If our politicians, religious leaders, elders, royal fathers do not retrace their steps and enforce what is right."

" Before now, our religious leaders do not involve self in politics but now the reverse is the case. Religious leaders have been compromised, just as seen in Kano, when the last administration forcefully removed sanusi from the seat of Emir to be replaced by their preferred candidate while other religious leaders kept mute rather than speak up against such ill. The new administration restored Sanusi as the preferred candidate disregarding the orderly procedure of restoring an Emir. The religious seat of power has become a political appointment. Same with the Igbo and Yoruba tribe."

" Politicians have corrupted the system!!! Now our pastors, imams and royal fathers speaks with both sides of their mouths. They have compromised on their faith and therefore lives in falsehood."

" Nigerian Govt has a way of making appointees automatically become villains upon attaining seat of power, but it is disappointing to see those we look up to as elders, pastors, imams and royal fathers who should stand for the truth compromise their faith for mere governmental gains thereby debarring self from addressing the stringent policies confronting the welfare of the citizens, leading to hardship."

" Take a look at the Nigerian Labour Congress. Before and during Oshiomole's reign, their mission was undaunted; the focus was to fight for the rights and privileges of Nigerians, but now that position has been compromised, and the government appoints candidates that will submit to their whims unimpeded, as seen in the proposed minimum wage tussle of N70,000 that can barely provide the basics for households."

" The judiciary, which is supposedly the last hope for the common man, has also been compromised by the government. The government employs their preferred judges and lawyers into positions not necessarily by merit but by subjugation, as seen during the 2023 general elections."

" The nation is rapidly descending into an irreversible state where poverty and hunger have taken hold of the country due to these anomalies. Weary and barely able to subsist, the masses will demonstrate their worries. The purpose of the protest is to raise awareness of an awkward issue that needs further investigation and to make our leaders aware of how ineffective they are at easing the pain of the general populace. A protest, meanwhile, ought to be orderly and compliant with the law."

" To be called upon by the government for a lawful demonstration is an affront to our spiritual leaders. Instead, the spiritual fathers should call the leaders to order and warn them, but because of their concessions, they may lack the courage to do so. In a rational world, the government honors the royal fathers and they discuss shortcomings that need to be fixed."

Lastly, Comrade Prince Saviour Iche urges President Tinubu to reshuffle his cabinet of incompetent appointees and make suited appointments of persons who have a better strategy to help fix the sinking economy. Royal Fathers and religious leaders should retrace their steps, speak earnestly to the government on the plight of Nigerians, and do that which is right. 


Read more on:

https://www.naomisophyblog.com.ng/nationwide-protest-religious-leaders-patriarchs-now-talks-out-of-both-sides-of-their-mouths-cannot-speak-for-the-masses-iche-alleges/

Executives of Igbo Speaking Community advise Igbos across the state to shun participation in the upcoming nationwide protest

By Onome Naomi

The Igbo Speaking Community Lagos Council's leaders warned Igbos across the state and in the diaspora not identify with the upcoming demonstration scheduled for August 1st–10, 2024, during a conference held on Saturday, July 27, 2024.

A communiqué made available to Naomi Sophy Blog and signed by the President General of the Igbo speaking community, Chief Sunday Udeh, the Chairman of the of the Council of 'Ndieze' Lagos, Eze Chika Nwokedi, and the secretary of the Igbo speaking community, Engr. Chuks, reads:

The Igbo Speaking Community in Lagos in Conjunction with it's Council Of Ndieze Ndigbo Lagos, the umbrella Social Cultural organization of Ndigbo here in Lagos spread across the Fifty Seven (57) Local Government and Local Council Development Areas uses this Opportunity to call on all Ndigbo in Lagos State and across Nigeria not to join in the proposed protest against the Nigerian State.

The Igbo Speaking Community in Lagos and it's Council Of Ndieze Ndigbo Lagos understands the Plight of Nigerians, we understands the hard Economic Challenges, we understands your feelings which is General amongst Nigerians, we understands what we all pass through especially with the high costs of Foodstuffs and social amenities in our markets. Every Nigerian is not exempted from this Economic Challenges but together in it. Ndigbo! Of a truth, this time is Challenging, tough for majority of Nigerian homes but we still believe in the President and Commander in Chief Of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic Of Nigeria Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, and his Economic team whom are working tirelessly to see to a better Change to the Economic Challenges Facing Nigerians.

Ndigbo! Mr President has over the Years stood with the Masses of this great Country in times of situations like what we are facing today economically and we believe and assured that he is dedicatedly working round the Clock to see Nigerians smile better.

The President in his magnanimous nature of Standing with Nigerians in difficult times and with his Renewed Hope Agenda has taken a bold move by assenting to the bill increasing the Minimum Wage Of Nigerian Workers from#30,000 Thirty Thousand Naira to#70,000 Seventy Thousand Naira with other attached incentives as Confirmed by the Organised Labour Collectively with assured Promise to review it every three years.

The President is also taking up other measures to Curb the effect of the Economic Challenges by the distribution of Foodstuffs Palliatives to various Localities across Nigeria which we believe will get to everyone of us yet to collect soonest.

Today, Ndigbo are major beneficiary Of the Renewed Hope Agenda Of Mr President who has just few days ago signed into Law the Establishment Of the South East Development Commission which will ensure the Reconstruction and Rehabilitation Of Roads, houses and other Infrastructure damages suffered by our Zone as well as tackle ecological problems and other related environmental or developmental Challenges in the South East Region.

Mr President has also taken bold steps in Correcting the Wrongs Of 54 Years now since the end of the Nigerian Civil War by addressing the Challenges faced by the Igbo Nation.

This move for us as a Community and Critical Stakeholders in the progressive Nigerian Project is a right move in the right direction and we applaud Mr President for reasoning with Ndigbo and Nigerians at large.

The Protest which we believe is being Masterminded by unpatriotic Nigerians which will likely cause Anarchy, distruction of lives and Properties will not add any Positive/ Meaningful Change to the present Economic issues on ground but will add to our Pain and cause us Agony.

The Igbo Speaking Community in Lagos and Ndieze Ndigbo therefore Call On Ndigbo and the good People of Nigeria to go about their normal businesses come August 1st to 10th without Fear as we believe in our Security Agencies to do the needful in the face of any attack against Nigerians and the Nigerian State.

The Igbo Speaking Community in Lagos and the Council Of Ndieze Ndigbo Lagos State says NO to any form of National Protest and Call on all Igbo Sons and Daughters to stay away from it especially now that we are mourning the death of our National Leader Chief Dr. Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu CON. Ahaejiejemba 1 Of Igboland, President General, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, whom death Occurred last Thursday 25th July 2024. We pray his Soul Rest in Perfect Peace. Amen.

Ndigbo are hardworking People who believe in making ends meet with it's buying and selling trade with hard earned business ventures all over the Nation and will not Support any Nationwide Protest and as a Community we Stand to say NO to any form of Protest that will inflict more Pains and Agony to Nigerians.

In reference to the above statement, the President General of Igbo speaking community, his subordinates, which includes; The Chairman council of Ndieze , Eze Chika Nwokedi and Vice Chairman Eze Jude Arinze sounded a few words of advice to members present at the conference to tell their teenage and adult children to desist from including self in the protest, whoever pays deaf ears to the warning is to his/her own peril.

Furthermore, Eze Chika Nwokedi stated that while it is every Nigerian citizen's right to protest over hardship, it is absurd to allow a demonstration to become a destructive endeavor. For this reason, Igbos should exempt self from the upcoming demonstration in order to live in peace. Eze Nnaemeka, who forewarned the Igbos, concurred with the advice. According to him, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's current administration inherited unresolved issues that will require time to resolve.

One minute silence was observed in reverence to the Late Ohaneze President, Engr. Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu who died on Thursday, July 25th, 2024.

Read more on;
https://www.naomisophyblog.com.ng/executives-of-igbo-speaking-community-advise-igbos-across-the-state-to-shun-participation-in-the-upcoming-nationwide-protest/

Three Data Storage Considerations to Enable Smart Stadiums

By Ghassan Azzi, Sales Director, Africa at Western Digital

There’s a close play at second base. A slow-motion video replay appears on the scoreboard. The moment in question approaches, and the video pauses and then zooms in on an image of the runner’s foot touching the bag a split second before the ball arrives. The view rotates 90 degrees, providing another angle that confirms the call. The home crowd cheers as the umpires convene and uphold the play.

Meanwhile, up in a command center next to the press box, a team watches a bank of video monitors streaming live footage from hundreds of security cameras situated around the facility. Analytics pop up on screen, classifying spectators as they move around the concourse. Dozens of feeds are rotated in and out of the monitors, based on current events and potential issues, identifying suspicious behavior that may need to be escalated to a human.

Powering this smart stadium is a mini data center positioned inside the stadium. Racks of servers, storage drives and networking equipment line the room, emanating a low hum as they collect and process terabytes of video data. This data is then fed into powerful AI-powered applications that the scoreboard operator, security personnel and other teams stationed around the stadium use to improve the spectator experience.

Whether capturing the play on the field or ensuring the safety of spectators and employees, AI-enabled video analytics are a big part of the spectator experience at large events. Providing the foundation for these powerful video analytics applications is high-capacity storage, an important component in the AI data cycle. Architects of the smart stadium need to ensure these high-performing video streaming, AI applications have the capacity, performance and security needed to enable modern, advanced event arenas.

The Importance of Storage in the Smart Stadium

Video is one of the fastest growing data storage segments. Video analysis tools process and analyze video data to extract insights and help make data-informed decisions. This is especially true in the large event space industry. Whether it’s a professional sports playoff game or a massive outdoor concert with hundreds of thousands of attendees, smart video enhances the customer experience and enables essential security for spectators, performers and employees. However, the video data needs to be reliable and accessible for these applications – and that can’t happen if it is not stored properly.

Higher video resolutions, increased frame rates and metadata allow analysts to evaluate video and images in greater detail, pixel by pixel, versus analyzing a whole image. This smart video data requires a massive amount of capacity, but organizations can’t procure just any storage drive and call it a day. Smart video analytics require the right type of storage to really bring data to life. Factors such as higher resolutions, multiple streams, AI metadata and even longer retention times also have a direct impact on data movement and data storage. All of this is driving the need for increased capacity, performance and durability to support streaming workloads for smart video systems and deep learning-enabled storage servers with advanced video AI analytics. .

Storage Requirements for High-Performing Video Analytics

Storage optimized for smart video analytics differs from client or desktop hard disk drives (HDDs). They are engineered to support multiple video streams, enable heavy “write” workloads and feature firmware that reduces image loss or dropped frames. There are various storage options for smart video to accommodate these diverse requirements – including removable cards for cameras, large-capacity enterprise-class HDDs, high-performing solid-state drives (SSDs), and high endurance microSD™ cards – and each has their place and specific use case in the smart stadium, and in smart video in general.

In addition, on-drive intelligence allows high-capacity smart video HDDs to recognize incoming video stream metadata and data types, coalesce data together in a cache and place data in specific track locations on-disk for optimal performance. Other drives can provide a variety of storage device parametric operational and diagnostic data to the system, alerting system administrators of specific recommended actions to address potential issues.

Enabling the Smart Stadium

Sports, entertainment and other large events are all about delivering a powerful spectator experience. Video analytics are a big part of this experience, providing high-definition video streams, stats and other entertaining highlights to fans while ensuring attendees, performers and employees are safe. The storage requirements vary widely across these stadiums use cases, making it essential for organizations to build a smart storage environment made up of both high-capacity and high-performing HDD and Flash solutions in the data center and out on the edge. The next close play at the plate, the viewing experience of a spectator in the back row and the security of everyone inside the facility, are all dependent on the need for storage.

Read more on:
https://www.naomisophyblog.com.ng/three-data-storage-considerations-to-enable-smart-stadiums/

IGP monitoring Unit Lagos takes action on ASP who confiscate suspect's wife, car, properties over N1m bail condition unmet

By Onome Naomi

IGP monitoring Unit Lagos takes action on ASP Cosmas Ezeofor of State CID Panti over confiscation of a Mercedes Benz GLK, Gold Chain, other properties belonging to a suspect on the order of suspect's estranged wife.

The latter happened during a fall out between Mr Vincent Okoloneli and his estranged wife Mrs Onyiye Angela Anaka of 12 years after transactional record shows the couple had co-financed properties acquired in the course of marriage.

In a petition to the Inspector General of Police sighted by Naomisophyblog from a human rights organization AMPEF who took over the case of Mr Vincent Okoloneli to ensure justice, an arrest was effected by ASP Cosmas Ezeofor of State CID Panti on Vincent Okoloneli ordered by madam Onyiye Angela Anaka on allegation of theft proven to be falsehood as the couple during the course of marriage had acquired properties with joint resources.

See Petition Excerpts;

IGP

Force Headquarters

FCT, Abuja

Sir,

Conduct Of  Conspiracy, Torture,  Intimidation, Forceful Confiscation Of Mercedes Benz GLK 2013, Gold Chain And Other Properties Belonging To Mr Vincent Okoloneli By Onyinye Angela Anaka and ASP Cosmas Emeka Ezeofor aka Tam Tam of State CID Panti , Lagos For Demand For One Million Naira Bail Bond Over False Allegations Against Okoloneli

Ambassadors of Peace and Enlightenment Foundation AMPEF (Voice of The Voiceless) is standing as an advocate for the rights of one Mr Osita Vincent Okoloneli who was supposedly intimidated, harassed and dehumanized by a Police officer serving at the State CID Panti ASP Cosmas Emeka Ezeofor aka Tam-Tam of D16 Section over failure to meet N1m bail condition.

Our client Mr Osita Vincent Okoloneli has marital issues with his estranged wife Mrs Onyiye Angela Anaka whom upon investigation is the recent dating partner of the ASP Cosmas Ezeofor.

Mr & Mrs Okoloneli (couple in dispute) had business transactions involving a rented property on Lagos Island which had led to ensuing dispute between the husband and the wife.

During the unsettled money dispute between the couple, the wife left home without communicating reasons to her husband but came back 3 Months later to destroy marriage photos and demanded our client,  her husband vacate the said apartment for her alone to occupy.

Mr Vincent Okoloneli heeding to advice of inlaws and immediate families kept mute all through this period of rancour  which infuriated his wife Mrs Onyiye Angela further, leading to a return of her bride price by her family to finally dissolve the marriage.

The threats ,confiscation of assets, and strange cars bringing Mrs Onyiye Angela Anaka( wife) home which includes the car of ASP Cosmas Ezeofor led our client Mr Vincent Okoloneli to approach Area F command where he submitted a petition on "Threat to life, character assassination and conduct likely to cause  breach of peace.

The IPO named Tina invited Mrs Onyiye Angela twice before she showed up, our client was then called to attend the resolution meeting but was surprised that as he turned up at area F command, he was immediately moved into a waiting vehicle to State CID Panti as orchestrated by ASP Cosmas Emeka Ezeofor who took charge of the case with the aim of manipulating and intimidating our client to confiscate his assets in favour of Mrs Onyiye Angela Anaka.

Our client Mr Vincent was detained,tortured and dehumanized leading to head injuries as well as ordered to pay a bail of one million naira to free himself.

ASP Cosmas Ezeofor aka Tam-Tam

While he was in detention at SCID, Panti,  ASP Ezeofor led a search party to our client's new apartment (after wife forced him out their matrimonial home ). The search party took  some of his property including documents, gold chain, wristwatches, bank tellers, receipts with handcuffs on his hands and leg cuffs. Our client lamented that he was taken to his house in handcuffs like a common criminal while his wife was busy taking his pictures , sent it to his business partners to end his business career. Let's not forget that the aim of our client was to put a stop to the threat he gets from his wife and her boyfriends and also to preserve his hard earned property before he was intimidated into being the offender.

The one million naira bail couldn't be met as demanded by ASP Cosmas Ezeofor, so he resulted to forceful confiscation of our client car for sale by means of coercion and intimidation.

ASP Cosmas Ezeofor told our client to order his sales man to bring a specific GLK to a customer hiding his identity so as to aid the sales man's compliance, Mr Vincent  our client declined at first but was further beaten with handcuffs leading to a visible cut on his head. Seeing the result of his resistance,  our client gave into Ezeofor's demands and also paid N100, 000 as part of the bail fine. ASP Ezeofor said he will release the car only if N1m is paid as bail condition but he didnt.

Rather , Ezeofor charged the case to court leading our client to be remanded for 3 weeks in prison custody based on false allegations. After meeting up with bail conditions in Court, he was directed to AMPEF, a human rights body over violation of his fundamental rights by ASP Ejiofor in connivance with Onyinye Angela Anaka.

ASP Cosmas Ezeofor taking photos of the GLK after confiscation

Our clients demands to have his Unregistered Mercedes Benz GLK 2013 valued at N20 million forcefully confiscated and other valuables taken from his apartment which includes his landed documents, his gold chain amounting to N7.8m, his documents, tellers, receipts, international passport.

Note: This matter started since 2021 till date and had gone through several police channels starting from Area F to State CID Panti, Zone 2 Command, FCIID Alagbon and presently being addressed by IGP monitoring unit Lagos. DC Ayilara of State CID Panti reacted to petition by AMPEF in 2023 and ordered a full investigation to bring ASP Ezeofor to order but was truncated by the Assistant commissioner in charge as assigned by DC Ayilara waheed.

Information has it that Mrs Onyiye Angela  Anaka throws money around to officers in a bid to truncate justice and has succeeded thus far until IGP monitoring unit Lagos took over the case and refused any form of backyard settlement.

All previous police channels the case was registered ends up doing our client's ex-wife biddings as soon as she shows up with money with the help of ASP Cosmas Ezeofor.

ASP Cosmas Emeka Ezeofor charged the matter before Yaba Magistrate Court but the Magistrate in charge struck out the matter which Ezeofor was using as an excuse to stop further investigation.

We hereby attach CTC of the matter struck out at Yaba Magistrates Court.

DEMANDS:

Sir,  AMPEF as Human Rights body is asking for  your intervention to  wade into this matter and bring airing officer ASP Cosmas Emeka Ezeofor to book for truncating a case,  torture and dehumanization melted out on our client by to forcefully collecting his personal properties from our client.

We also urge the commission to order the immediate return of properties taken from our client as well as the removal of such elements from the Nigerian Police tarnishing the image of Police.

Attached with this letter is pictures of our client when tortured by ASP Cosmos Emeka Ejiofor, the Unregistered Mercedes Benz GLK 2013, a copy of the gold chain which is yet to be returned since 2021.

Sir please attend to this matter urgently because of the state of our client who needs justice urgently because of the state of his mind on the horror experience he had suffered in the hands of Onyinye Angela Anaka and ASP Cosmas Ezeofor.

Your Sincerely,

Comrade Prince Saviour Iche

President AMPEF

Following this petition, the IGP monitoring unit Lagos had swinged into action to investigate the erring officer along sides the estranged wife of Vincent Okoloneli who claimed she's sold the vehicle confiscated and has done so by right.

The commanding officer of IGP Monitoring Unit Lagos ACP O.M Oladeinde has ordered that the vehicle and other properties taken by ASP Cosmas Ezeofor be submitted and returned to the rightful owner. Meanwhile, Okoloneli's estranged wife offered to pay #500,000 as compensation, unwilling to return the properties of her ex-husband. The case is ongoing as the IGP Unit proceeds with assertion.

The case has elicited reactions from many who describes Onyiye Angela's actions as a delusional attempt to destroy a man she once promised to love.

Read more on:
https://www.naomisophyblog.com.ng/igp-monitoring-unit-lagos-takes-action-on-asp-who-confiscated-suspects-wife-car-properties-over-n1m-bail-condition-unmet/

Delta Police Arrest Armed Robbers/ Cultists; Recover Guns and Twenty-Nine Rounds of Live Ammunition

.....ARREST OF SUSPECTED ARMED ROBBERS/CULTISTS AND RECOVERY OF ONE BERETTA PISTOL, TWO AK-47 MAGAZINES, ONE LOCALLY MADE CUT-TO-SIZE GUN, AND TWENTY-NINE ROUNDS OF 7.62MM LIVE AMMUNITION

By Onome Naomi

Sequel to series of cult related activities, Kidnapping and armed robbery in Sapele, Oghara and environs, the commissioner of Police Delta State CP Olufemi Abaniwonda directed the team on special assignment to work collaboratively with the DPOS Oghara and Sapele Division in order to nip it at the bud.

In a statement released by SP Bright Edafe,PPRO Delta State Command Asaba, The team led by ASP Julius Robinson on 18/07/2024 at about 0930hrs in a covert intelligence led operation raided three different syndicates of cultists/suspected armed robbers at various location in Oghara Town, Ethiope East LGA of Delta State and effected the arrest of five (5) suspects namely Ochuko Joel Ofoye "m" 35yrs of Jeddo Community in Okpe LGA Delta State, a member of Juris Confraternity and Michael Anwul “m" aged 29yrs of Alisimie Community Agbor, in Ika South LGA Delta State of Juris confraternity and custodian of arms in whose possession two(2) AK 47 Magazines and Twenty-Nine (29) rounds of live ammunition were recovered. Other suspects include Great Ojareri 'm' 35 yrs of Oghareki Community in Ethiope West LGA Oghara Delta State, a member of Eiye Confraternity also a custodian of arms and Innocent Esefeta "m" aged 31 yrs of Efisere Community in Ughelli North LGA Delta State, resident at behind Ibori Road Oghara Delta State, investigation revealed that he is the owner of the recovered Beretta pistol, and lastly Ogaga Ebuke "m" 27yrs of Okpe Community in Orerokpe LGA Delta State a resident of Western Delta Road in Oghara Delta State and member of Juris Confraternity and a locally made pistol with one live cartridge concealed in a shoe was recovered from his resident. Suspects are in custody and investigation is ongoing.

For any security related information, or distress, members of the public can reach the command either by reporting to the DPO in their area or call any of the following control rooms numbers;
- 08036684974
- 08114895600
- 08025666914

Read more on:
https://www.naomisophyblog.com.ng/delta-police-arrest-armed-robbers-cultists-recover-guns-and-twenty-nine-rounds-of-live-ammunition/

A Call To Every Nigerian: 'Put Yourself Together And Fight For Your Rights' - Says Amb Steve Nwose, Advocate For Speak Up Nigeria

By Onome Naomi

This was stated in a birthday conversation with Ambassador Steve Nwose, who uses the opportunity to encourage all Nigerians to speak out and combat wickedness in their nation. Ambassador Nwose celebrates his birthday quietly at his resident quarters in America today.

This warning was delivered in the course of an online press and media chat. In order to ensure that our nation survives beyond this administration, he counsels everyone to speak up. If they don't, we won't have a nation at all.

Amb Steve Nwose Convener Speak Up Nigeria

He added that Nigerians should speak up in order to effect constructive change that is beneficial to everyone as there is so much hunger, insecurity, and insensitivity orchestrated by our leaders. A good leader, as emphasized will always take his people's cries into consideration, but the current state of affairs indicates that the APC government is attempting to destroy the nation and this shouldn't be permitted. In his humanitarian spirit, Amb. Steve NWOSE stated that his concerns bothers on being unsure of how to resolve the hardship faced by his community due to economy downturn plaguing the country.

In his concluding remarks, he stated that the president and his cabinet ought to understand that the people are disappointed at this poor administrative performance after casting a vote of confidence. Says, he prays God gives innocent Nigerians the strength to survive through this trying times.

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https://www.naomisophyblog.com.ng/a-call-to-every-nigerian-put-yourself-together-and-fight-for-your-rights-says-amb-steve-nwose-advocate-for-speak-up-nigeria/

ACP Paul Azuka Applaud DPO Alausa, Educate Police Officers on Proper Conduct During a Familiarization Tour to Alausa Division

By Onome Naomi

ACP Paul Azuka Okafor fcism tells police officers to conduct self with morality while Policing, during a familiarization visit to Alausa Police Division on Monday July 15, 2024. He applauded CSP Olatokunbo Abaniwonda PSC, DPO Alausa Police Division Ikeja for being a role model worth emulating as well as an excellent deliverer of delegated duties in her jurisdiction of service.

The event held at the Alausa Police Division had stakeholders, police officers and the press in attendance. This includes: ACP Paul Okafor, Commander Area F, HRH Chief Badmus Oladimeji, HRH Chief Femi Akilo, Pst. Kingsley Osazuwa CSO Christ Embassy HQ Ikeja; PCRC chairman Mr Oyeniyi; UAC Foods; Keystone bank representatives Opebi branch; Lafarge representatives; Professionals; Civil Servants; and Others...

The highlight of the occasion was centred on the speech delivered by ACP Paul Azuka, CSP Olatokunbo Abaniwonda, PCRC Chairman, HRH Chief Oladimeji and the Presentation by Keystone bank.

The program commenced with an opening speech by CSP Olatokunbo Abaniwonda, the DPO Alausa Police Division. In her speech, she acknowledged IGP- Dr Kayode Egbetokun, Ph.D. NPM, CP Adegoke Fayoade,mni, Commissioner of Police Lagos State for their input in instilling sanctity into policing as well as promote peace, safety in Lagos and Nigeria in its entirety.

Specifically, CSP Olatokunbo eulogize her superiors for believing in her capability to head as DPO Alausa Division. She noted that the Alausa Division borders three key areas of specification, they are: Ojodu, Ikeja and Ketu and she's been able to deliver calmness in these areas with the aid of gallant officers who serves under her authority.

She appraised FPRO ACP Prince Olumuyiwa Adejobi and Lagos PRO SP Benjamin Hundeyin for their alignment to work and improve all communication between the police and the community in accordance to IGP's vision and betterment of the nation.
She also complimented policemen serving in her Division for being courageous, selfless, loyal, friendly, daring, responsive, hardworking, determined, ambitious and brave. Urged officers to keep the job up while being the best at it.

ACP Paul Azuka admonished guests at the familiarization visit on the need to promote community policing, he also educated officers on the importance of upholding morality by threading on the right cause to justice with an effort to conduct thorough investigation on sensitive matters professionally without compromise.

He added that misconducts from police officers is subject to a reprimand if reported to the appropriate authority for disciplinary action and found culpable. He also advised that citizens should desist from false information or narratives that could have detrimental effect on the public. Commends CSP Olatokunbo Abaniwonda for being professional in her conduct as a police officer and a leader.

Other speakers at the event includes the PCRC Chairman who described DPO Alausa as a tenaciously professional officer with an expertise in Policing. HRH Badmus, Onilu of Alausa also commended CSP Olatokunbo and her men for their level of professionalism in keeping the environ safe, devoid of crime and criminality. Both personalities promised to give their support when the need arises.

Pst Kingsley Osazuwa, CSO Christ Embassy in his commendation mentioned that DPO Alausa is doing tremendously well in her jurisdiction of service especially in the combing of hot spots around Opebi axis resulting to safety and security aided by availability of police man power in the area. Advocates for more sensitization of police officers to promote moral conducts and professionalism in service to the public.

Other activities includes a presentation by Keystone bank representatives, a picture frame by PCRC and gifting of a picture of self image to Area F commander by CSP Olatokunbo Abaniwonda on behalf of Alausa Police Division.

Read more on;
https://www.naomisophyblog.com.ng/acp-paul-azuka-applaud-dpo-alausa-educate-police-officers-on-proper-conduct-during-a-familiarization-tour-to-alausa-division/

Hardship: Awesome Sisters Foundation Embarks on 'Operation Support The Needy', Distributes Food Items

By Onome Naomi

Awesome Sisters Foundation, a socialist organization which comprises of women from different squares of life and races embarked on an operation feed the needy exercise observed on Saturday July 13,2024 in Oshodi Lagos.

The foundation established in 2017, is earmarked to meet the needs of the less privileged in the society. The Awesome Sisters are volunteers of goodwill as members contribute funds to help the poor.

According to records, Awesome sisters foundation has funded scholarships for students, empowerment of widows, distribution of food items to the less privileged, donation of school materials, payment of rents for the homeless, hospital bills amid other voluntary donations.

On Saturday 13th July 2024,  Awesome Sisters took to the streets of Lagos precisely the suburbs of Oshodi to distribute food items to support over a hundred residents as the economy bites hard leading to untold hardship on Nigerians, a situation where foodstuffs has become a very expensive commodity unaffordable to many Nigerian families.

The initiative carried out by the foundation is a magnanimous act meant to cushion the effect of inflation leading to scarce resources and unavailability of capital to cater for the people's needs. Random reports shows that many Nigerian households in recent times have subjected members of the family to one square meal as against the normal three square meals due to economic meltdown resulting in hardship.

Speaking to reporters at the distribution site of Awesome Sisters' "Operation Feed the Needy," the foundation's convener, Chief Mrs. Chizoba Okoli, stated that the organization had committed to showing generosity to the streets by giving food items to those in need in an effort to lessen the current hardship that had befallen Nigerians.

In her words, she said;

"So many Nigerians needs food, it is not about how rich you are but how far can you go to help people?"

"Awesome sisters has made it an assignment to support the less privileged hence a contribution was made by all members of the foundation to support the Nigerian govt from our private purses to achieve this course."

"We are here to make others smile, why eat alone in our houses when people are out there suffering and stealing just to eat. This gesture we give is from our heart not because we are rich."

Chizoba also advised wealthy Nigerians to emulate the act of showing magnanimity to the starving population. She says the government should utilize organisations such as the Awesome Sisters Foundation to empower people in the grassroot, create an enabling environment for job opportunities as well as support the people with basic amenities.

She added that the Japa syndrome can be curtailed only if the government can provide the basics as Nigerians who leaves the country to sort for greener pastures in other countries do menial jobs to support their family back home. However there is need for a unified front to create a better Nigeria.

Some of the beneficiaries at the Oshodi outreach thanked the organisers of Operation Feed the Needy "The Awesome Sisters" for the philanthropy displayed to cushion hardship. Some of the food items provided by the foundation includes, packs of rice, beans, garri, palm oil, pastas, noodles, others.

Lagos Lawmakers Invite Attorney-General Over Supreme Court Judgement On LGs

- commend Police for successful operation against kidnappers
- applaud First Lady Remi Tinubu for encouraging gardens

By Onome Naomi

The Lagos State House of Assembly has invited the Attorney-General of the State, Mr. Lawal Pedro, to appear before it to explain the Supreme Court judgement on local governments in the country.

The lawmakers said there was a need for better understanding of the decision of the apex court in relation to some provisions in the Constitution of the country.

A seven-man panel of the Supreme Court had declared on Thursday that the 774 local government councils in the country should receive their funds directly from the Federal Government as well as manage such funds themselves being a tier of government.

The court further declared that allocations to local government councils run by caretaker committees were illegal.

Ruling after a voice vote by lawmakers at plenary on Thursday, the Speaker of the Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, ruled: "There is a need for us to seek clarification and understanding of this judgement. It will be good to invite the Attorney-General to brief us and give his understanding so that we do not run foul of the judgement."

Meanwhile, the Lagos State House of Assembly has resolved to write a letter of commendation to the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, over the successful operation by men of the force that led to the elimination of nine kidnappers in the state recently.

A letter of commendation is also to be sent to the Commissioner of Police in Lagos State, Adegoke Mustapha Fayoade, for the efforts of the policemen which led to the fruitful operation.

Speaker Mudashiru Obasa, who presided over the plenary, said the police and men of the force who took part in the operation needed to be commended.

Dr. Obasa agreed with members of the House that letters be sent to Egbetokun and Fayoade further charging them not to relent in keeping the State safe for residents.

He stressed the need for stakeholders to fast-track considerations for the creation of state police to support the federal police system.

The Majority Leader of the House, Hon. Noheem Adams, had earlier recalled how the police launched the operation against some kidnappers in the Ladipo area of the state and eliminated nine of them.

According to him, there has been calm in the area since the operation was carried out.

Noheem added that the Ikorodu area of the state which hitherto had issues of kidnapping now enjoys relative peace.

In another development, the House of Assembly has applauded the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for seeking to encourage subsistence agriculture.

The Speaker said it was a beautiful idea to encourage Nigerians to have gardens in their houses arguing that this would help to create food sufficiency.

He recalled that schools had farms in the past adding that current situations call for a return to that period.

Eromosele Ebhomele, Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly related this report to the press on Thursday, July 11, 2024.

Read more on;
https://www.naomisophyblog.com.ng/lagos-lawmakers-invite-attorney-general-over-supreme-court-judgement-on-lgs/

Human Rights Activists Criticise Surge in Airfare, Demand FGN Prompt Review

.....Says Festus Keyamo Is Unfit To Serve As The Aviation Minister


By Onome Naomi

Comrade Prince Saviour Iche, the voiceless ambassador and convener of AMPEF, is pleading with the federal government to intervene in response to the nation's airlines' rising ticket rates. Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation, is incompetent, he claims.

Based on an analysis of current airfare rates, Iche reports that states across the nation are seeing increases in pricing, with the lowest-rated airline now charging as much as N150,000 to travel from Lagos to Abuja, while higher-traffic airlines charge up to N250,000. It should be highlighted that the recent spike in transport costs, particularly for air travel, has a direct impact on businesses that depend on moving their employees around to meet deadlines, provide goods and services, and earn a living.

According to Iche, the administration of the aviation industry by Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation, demonstrates his incompetence, as evidenced by the continually rising cost of airfare and the small number of aircraft that are in service to carry passengers. He claims Keyamo is unsuited for the role and that his function was not thoroughly considered before appointment.

Furthermore Iche said;

"Since there aren't many airlines in Nigeria, it begs the question of why the current government ignores the corruption and mismanagement in the aviation industry. A regulatory body overseeing the airlines should be established to control their operations, including setting a floor price for passengers. It is possible to attribute ineptitude and inhumanity to those who ignore the suffering of Nigerians."

"The New Nigerian Airline taken over by the government has gone into extinction, the airline came in as mere deceit to embezzle public funds and not airworthy to convey people as it is a rebranded and refurbished shamble of a plane."

" Amid few aircrafts and expensive tickets for passengers, the federal authorities also suspended Dana Air. The suspension of suspended airlines should be revoked, the government should support the emergence of new airlines in the aviation industry to foster healthy competition and relieve pressure on Nigerians who travels based on their preferences and financial capabilities."

"It is a shame that Nigeria, the giant of Africa do not have her country's airline owned and controlled by the federal government like Air Ghana, Ethiopian Air, Kenyan Airways, LAM Mozambique Airlines, Egypt Air, South African Airways and other country owned airlines."

Iche added that the Minister's first responsibility is to control the airline industry, keeping in mind that, in reality, the rebirth of the Nigerian airline is a significant undertaking that ought to get underway as soon as he assumes office as Minister of Aviation. Because of Keyamo's demonstrated incapacity, it is therefore reasonable to call for a new Minister who's an expert in this field. It is noteworthy that Keyamo, who was appointed in April 2018, failed in his role as the director of strategic communications during the government of previous President Buhari. He was then named minister of state for labour and employment in President Buhari's 2019 reelection campaign.

Additional References

Given that Nigeria is regressing rather than progressing, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu needs to reorganize his government. Nigerians suffer from a number of issues, including increase in pump prices leading to high road transportation costs, rising air travel, and instability in food producing states. Rice, the staple diet of the average person, is too costly. The president should reorganize and replace members of his cabinet if he wants Nigerians to regard him seriously.

Comrade Prince Saviour Iche who speaks for the voiceless reinterated that the people have placed a vote of no confidence on President Tinubu unless he offers answers to the terrible circumstances that have befallen Nigeria and her people.

Read more on;
https://www.naomisophyblog.com.ng/human-rights-activists-criticise-surge-in-airfare-demand-fgn-prompt-review/

Residents,Traders call on IGP Egbetokun as Day light armed robberies, cult Killings Illicit drug peddling expose Oyo Sango police station inability to tackle crime

By Naomisophyblog

On Friday June 29th, 2024, about 10am , armed robbers shot a rice seller at the Sango market in Ibadan Oyo state. The victim simply identified as Yusuf was waiting for a commercial motorcycle rider to take him from the Sango market to buy rice but he got the shock of his life when the rider ordered him to surrender the money in his possession, as he delayed the instruction, the suspected armed robber opened fire and shot him on his right hand and fled.

Eyewitnesses revealed that the armed robbers left Yusuf writhing in pains . Help however came his way as he was rushed to a hospital.

When our Correspondent visited the scene of the crime, a blood stain was noticed on the road where the shooting took place while traders and other motorists where seen discussing the shooting and also narrating incidences of crimes in the market and environs.

The traders said the recent armed robbery was coming barely one year after a 19- year - old man was allegedly shot dead at the Elewure bus top Sango market . The Elewure shooting is a stone throw to where Yusuf was shot. ’ The boy they killed is called Dada. He was selling soft drinks for his parents when he was shot in the head in broad day light . His killers fled after the shooting him. ’’. A trader Mama Rashidat said.

Another trader Mummy Dayo said ‘’ The family rushed Dada to a nearby hospital but they said they could not handle such emergency. The family took him to the University Teaching hospital UCH. The family deposited N300, 000 for the treatment and went to borrow more money but after three days, Dada died from the gunshot wound he sustained. ‘’
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The traders also recounted how a middle aged man simply identified as Puff daddy was murdered in a gruesome manner in Sango market.

The trader who simply identified herself as Mama Joy said ‘’ Puff Daddy’s girlfriend is my customer but whenever she is coming to the market, she used to disguise herself as she is scared of the bad boys around who killed her boyfriend. The way they murdered him was brutal. They shot and stabbed him all over his body until he gave up the ghost.’’

Another trader trader Mama Muni said ‘’ This is no news at all that the young men suspected to be cultists and criminals hang around at the railway at Elewure and a spot close to a popular beer parlour called Ghetto in the market where these boys smoke hemp and sell illicit drugs.

Some of these bad boys sleep around shopping complexes and in front of shops at night. Is it that the police who have a van station directly in front of the major road in the market do not notice the hemp smoking men and criminals hibernating in these blackspots . With all these crimes in Sango market, its high time the IGP intervenes because we do not understand why crimes will be occurring ?

A regular customer in the market one Lekan said ‘’ I am baffled how they (police) look away from crimes in the market but they are interested in collecting N500 from petty traders . These policemen brag that there is nothing that can stop them from collecting the money as their CP is aware of what they do to keep the station running.

A particular policewoman come around every month to collect that illegal N500 money from those traders displaying their wares on the sidewalks and that is why when you take any case against any trader in Sango market and owner of shops in the area to the police station , you will be shocked that the police will not do justice to the case. The IGP should look into this behavior by the police ’’
One of the traders at the Sango market who have since relocated her shop from the market gave the unpleasant hemp smoking situation as the reason she left the market.

‘’ I have to leave after four years. My shop is close to the hideout of these hemp smoking men and despite all my efforts to make them relocate, they refused to move, What have we not used to chased them, we used police and the army still the boys will relocate for a while when they noticed that law enforcement agents are after them but shortly after, they will return there again. I could not bear the heavy hemp smoking and I had to relocate.‘’

Investigations also reveal that in July year last year , suspected cultists killed a young man at the Agbowo community in retaliation for a cult leader’s murder .The Agbowo community is under the Sango Division . Agbowo community is opposite the University of Ibadan and quite a number of the students and staff with their families live there.

A man simply identified as Ayo said ‘’The young man’s name is Tayo. He was shot and left to bleed to death. His killing was in retaliation for the murder of a cult leader cult Esho (devil) who and his gang members were in control of petty businesses around the Agbowo shopping complex. Since Esho was brutally murdered and his intestines was ripped out, his cult gang succeeded in killing Tayo to avenge Esho. He said ‘’ There is this guy called Dada , after the killing of Esho, Dada has been the one in charge of boys in Agbowo and he is the one allocating roadside spaces to petty traders around the Agbowo shopping complex. He collects as much as N50, 000 yearly to allow the traders to display their goods on pavements and walkways. He has been arrested several times by the Sango police station but still he is roaming about free.

When another gang wants to take over the control of commerce in and around Agbowo shopping complex, there is usually a supremacy fight which can lead to killing of rivals and disturbance of public peace ’’
Residents and traders in Agbowo community also reveal how suspected cultists and robbers constitute a threat to them over the supremacy battle to control petty businesses around the Agbowo shopping complex. Traders recounted how they fled when cult gangs held rallies to announce their presence.

A trader , Abe said ‘’ Some cult boys masked up and they moved in a file along the streets. When residents and traders noticed that they were cultists, they quickly closed their shops while others ran into their houses and bolted their doors. I ran into my shop and peeked from the window where I saw them in their number. They were masked and walking in a procession from street to street without fear. I learnt that those boys were the new initiates into the cult. This was about 6pm. They did this for about three days and we were so afraid and the police did not stop them’’ Traders in Agbowo community are not spared from the activities of robbers as their shops and stores are burgled at will.

One Mama John narrated how her footwear business was affected badly after suspected robbers broke into their store and stole her goods.
‘’ I am sad. I got the goods like yesterday and by the next day when I went to the store to bring them out to sell, I found out the goods have been stolen’'.

Another trader in Agbowo said ‘’ My shop was looted. They stole everything. I had to start all over . They came and stole the goods again. We have gotten a security personnel whom we pay monthly to secure our shops as the police rarely come around to provide security .

GAC Members Meet Obasa Over Proposed Lagos Electricity Law

By Naomi Onome

A delegation of the Governance Advisory Council (GAC) has visited the Lagos State House of Assembly and held a meeting with the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa.

The meeting which held behind closed doors on Thursday afforded a fruitful discussion concerning the proposed Lagos Electrification Agency Law which recently scaled second reading during plenary.

The GAC delegation at the meeting included Cardinal James Odumbaku, Sen. Anthony Adefuye, Otunba Henry Ajomale, Dr. Yomi Finnih, and Otunba Femi Pedro.

On Tuesday June 25, Dr. Obasa committed the bill to the Committee on Energy and Mineral Resources with a two-week mandate for the latter to report back to the House.

This was after lawmakers at the day's sitting debated the pros and cons of the bill which targets to repeal the Lagos Electric Power Reform Law, 2018 to provide for the creation and administration of the Lagos Electricity Market.

The bill further seeks to establish a commercial and technical regulatory framework for the electricity market with the purpose of ensuring reliable and universal access to electricity for all residents of the State.

Also, the bill seeks to establish the Lagos State Electrification Fund for the delivery of reliable electricity supply to the underserved areas of the State.

Speaking about the bill, the chairman of the Committee on Energy and Mineral Resources, Hon. Sobur Oluwa, had said it was "very essential as it gives room for Lagos State to regulate its power supply and transmit electricity at its own pace."

Eromosele Ebhomele
Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly.