FG Mulls Special Tribunal To Try Electricity Thieves

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June 21, 2024

The federal government says plan is ongoing to establish a special tribunal to try those who illegally use electricity in the country.

The tribunal will also be empowered to speedily dealt with other power-related offences, such as, power infrastructure vandalism, amongst others.

Aliyu Tahir, the Managing Director, Nigerian Electricity Management Services Agency, NEMSA, made this known on Thursday in Abuja while speaking to journalists.

Many Nigerians are believed to be stealing electricity for use in their homes and offices by by-passing metres provided by electricity distribution companies, Discos.

According to checks, many users of electricity in the country don’t even have metres, making it difficult for electricity companies to generate enough funds to invest in critical infrastructure to develop the sector.

The Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu recently lamented that the dearth of revenue by power firms in the country could lead to total collapse of the sector.

The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission, NERC, claimed that 609,585 electricity consumers were metered by the end of last year, while the number of unmetered registered power users nationwide stood at 7,319,846.

Speaking yesterday on how the federal government intended to tackle the problem of electricity theft and other problems facing the power sector, Tahir said a tribunal with the power to prosecute offenders of these offences would soon be set up.

He said the agency is currently interacting with the National Assembly to amend the Electricity Act to accommodate the tribunal.

Tahir said, “We are looking at the establishment of this electricity tribunal to be able to enforce our mandates more. When you look at the enforcement, concerning sanctioning of violators in the Act, it is a very long process.

“So to fast-track the prosecution of offenders, the establishment of this tribunal solely for the power sector will go a long way in ensuring that we fast-track the process, carry out enforcements and sanction violators.

“The establishment of this tribunal has been brought to the knowledge of the legislature and we’ve made submissions to them. We hope that they will amend the Electricity Act to include a provision for this.”

Death Toll From Lagos Cholera Outbreak Rises

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James Orji

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June 21, 2024

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No fewer than 37 deaths have been recorded in the current Cholera outbreak, which has hit 30 states, including Lagos and Ogun.

The Lagos state government has announced that the death tool from the cholera outbreak in the state has risen to 21.

The revelation was made on Thursday by the Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Health, Dr Kemi Ogunyemi, in a statement signed by the Director of Public Affairs in the state ministry.

The statement comes amidst fear that the disease has spread to more than 30 states in the country.

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, NCDCP, put the number of persons that have died from the disease at 37.

Presenting the situation report in the state yesterday, Ogunyemi stated that the state is one of the epicentres of the disease, with the Lagos Island being the most affected.

So far, the state has recorded close to 400 cases and 21 deaths, according to details provided by the government.

Part of the statement: “Following the last update on the cholera outbreak in Lagos, which reported 350 suspected cases and 15 fatalities, the Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Health, Dr Kemi Ogunyemi, disclosed that the total number of cholera cases has increased to 401 across Lagos, with Lagos Island, Kosofe, and Eti Osa recording the highest numbers.

“Dr Ogunyemi revealed this today while providing an update on the outbreak after meeting with members of the Lagos State Public Health Emergency Operations Centre. She added that the death toll had also risen to 21, an increase of six from the previously reported 15 fatalities.”

Ogunyemi further stated that the recent upsurge of the disease in the state is due to the large gatherings during the recent Eid el Kabir celebration.

Meanwhile, educational institutions in the state have made the use of face mask mandatory for primary and secondary schools as a way of preventing further spread of the disease.

LP Crisis: Obi’s Spokesman, Okonkwo Hints Of Leaving Party

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James Orji

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June 21, 2024

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Kenneth Okonkwo, one of the spokespersons of the Labour Party in the 2023 presidential election says he may leave the party any moment from now.

Recall that Okonkwo left the All progressives Congress, APC, ahead the 2023 presidential election to support the party’s candidate Peter Obi.

According to the popular Nollywood actor, his decision is based on the leadership crisis rocking the party.

He pointed out that the last National Convention by the Julius Abure-led leadership was a joke, adding that the leaders of the party lack integrity.

Okonkwo stated further that because the party has not been committed to the welfare of Nigerians “I don’t rule out going bank to anything” including his former party, the All Progressive’s Congress, APC.

He laments, “Any party that is not visibly committed to the welfare of Nigerians will most likely not see me there. I don’t rule out going back to anything because change is constant.

“My own labour party is not impressing me. Assuming they continue on this trajectory where they cannot even hold an acceptable national convention, then you’d tell me I’d be there?

“I was a spokesperson at the presidential level and I did not know that the Labour Party was having a convention. When I saw it on social media, I thought it was fake. They were rejected in Umuahia because it was a leprous convention.”

“Those people are clowns. It is the greatest joke I have ever seen in a political party and then you want to position yourself as a party of integrity. You cannot give what you don’t have.”

Okonkwo left the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2022, citing the adoption of a Muslim-Muslim ticket for the 2023 presidential election. A month later, he joined the LP.

Obi To Tinubu: “We Are The Poverty Capital Of The World, Stop Downplaying Our Situation

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The Source

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June 21, 2024

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The Labour Party Presidential Candidate in the 2023 election, Peter Obi has reacted to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s downplaying the hardship in the country with his view that it’s not peculiar to Nigeria alone

Obi said that rather than face the reality that we are the poverty capital of the World and the most insecure people and take decisive steps to stem the situation, the government is trying to play the ostrich even when the people are overwhelmed by the situation.

Writing on his X handle the former Anambra State Governor said “The problems facing Nigeria are well-known to all Nigerians. We are the poverty capital of the world, among the most insecure people on earth, among the hungriest, have poor education quality and the highest number of out-of-school children, high infant mortality, corruption, unemployment, the highest income gap between the poor and the rich, high corruption perception index, infrastructure and healthcare challenges, and more.

“It’s disheartening to hear those in charge, who were hired to address our problems, make statements like “we are not the only ones struggling with poverty and hunger.” Instead of merely acknowledging that other countries face similar challenges, we need to hear a thorough plan of action to tackle our unique struggles. We require concrete solutions and a clear vision to address these issues, not comparisons that downplay our circumstances. I urge those in leadership positions to offer tangible solutions, not mere reminders that others face similar challenges. We need a comprehensive approach to tackle our specific challenges, not generalizations that dismiss our experiences.

“A true leader provides direction, guidance, solutions, and reassurance in times of crisis. This is the hallmark of visionary leadership and a trait of nations that are making progress and advancing their development. They don’t simply state the obvious but offer a roadmap for overcoming obstacles. Just like a pilot, who doesn’t just announce turbulence; they assure passengers that they will do everything possible to ensure a safe journey.

“Only then can we begin to trust that our country is in capable hands, working towards a brighter future for all Nigerians.

Ondo To Challenge Court’s Verdict On LCDAs

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Ayodele Oni

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June 21, 2024

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By Ayodele Oni

Ondo State Government has indicated intention to challenge the Court judgement which cancelled the newly created 33 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs).

The judgement, has generated mixed reactions, with opposition accusing Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of having a hand in it.

The State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr Olukayode Ajulo, SAN has sought for a certified true copy of the verdict with a view to study it and determine next line of action.

A statement by Dele Sadiq Jobi, the Commissioner’s Media Aide, stated that “the office of the AG has taken cognizance of the Ondo State High Court’s recent judgment nullifying the creation of the 33 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs).

“In response, the Honourable Attorney General has promptly requested the Certified True Copy (CTC) of the judgment.

“Upon receipt, a meticulous study and analysis will be undertaken, culminating in a comprehensive legal opinion to the Government of Ondo State.

“Subsequently, all necessary measures, in accordance with our laws, will be taken to safeguard the interests of our citizens, foster peaceful coexistence, and uphold the rule of law.

“The Honourable Attorney General remains steadfast in his commitment to prioritizing the well-being and welfare of our citizens, working tirelessly to ensure that justice and the law are served.”

Insecurity: Ekiti Residents Resort To Self Imposed Curfew

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Ayodele Oni

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June 21, 2024

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By Ayodele Oni

In the aftermath Thursday’s killings in Ekiti State Capital, Ado residents have imposed on a curfew on themselves.

The State Capital on Thursday evening was deserted with people rushing home to beat the self imposed curfew from 7.00pm to 7.00am.

Following the death of two persons that were shut by gunmen riding motorcycle earlier in the day, the State Police Command deployed massive armed policemen to all parts of the State Capital.

Some of the armed Policemen were on patrol vehicles driving round the Capital which prompted residents to conclude that there is an imposed curfew.

Shops, especially relaxation centres, hurriedly closed up while major roads were deserted as commercial motorcyclists abandoned duties for fear of being arrested.

In a statement, the State Police Command, explained that no curfew has been declared in any part of the State.

The statement reads: “The Ekiti State Police Command has dispelled the rumour of a curfew in the State.

In a chat with the BSES, the Public Relations Officer of the Command, Sunday Abutu, said that there was no iota of truth in the rumour being peddled.

He urged citizens to go about their normal businesses and give credible information to security agencies to curb insecurity.

Court Verdict On Emirship Tussle: Kano Govt Claims Victory, Orders Police To Evict Emir Bayero From Palace, To Demolish Palace

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Suleiman Anyalewechi

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June 21, 2024

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Abba Kabir Yusuf and Aminu Bayero and Sanusi Lamido Sanusi

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

Following its own interpretation of the verdict delivered on the festering Kano Emirate stool crisis by a Federal High Court sitting in Kano, the Kano State Government early Thursday night, June 20, 2024, directed the State Commissioner of Police, to evict Emir Bayero from the Nasarawa Mini Palace.

The processes that led to the dethronement of Bayero, including the purported repeal of the State’s Emirate Laws of 2019, were declared illegal, null and void on Wednesday by Justice Mohammed Liman.

However, while addressing the Press, the Kano State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Haruna Dederi, claimed that the ruling of the Court unequivocally reaffirmed the validity of the 2024 amended Emirates laws as passed by the Lawmakers and assented to by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf.

The Kano State Chief Law Officer said that the directive for the eviction of Emir Bayero from where he has been occupying since his purported deposition by the Kano State Government on May 23, is to free the mini palace for a reconstruction work.

Below is the full text of the statement.

“Gentlemen of the Press,

“You will recall that at our last press briefing, we had informed you that we would keep you posted relating to any further development in respect of our emirate cases. Today 20th June, 2024, the Federal High Court No. 1, Kano had passed its ruling in respect of the case before it.

“I have the honor, on behalf of His Excellency Gov. Abba K. Yusuf and the Kano State Government, to address you once again over the lingering litigation arising from the abolishing of the Five (5) emirates and deposition of the former emirs. (including the deposed emir of 8 metropolitan local governments)

“The Kano State Government acknowledges the ruling by the Federal High Court regarding the Kano Emirates Council (Repeal) Law, 2024 and views same as upholding the rule of law.

“By the ruling of the Court, it has unequivocally reaffirmed the validity of the law passed by Kano State House of Assembly and assented to by His Excellency the Executive Governor of Kano State on Thursday 23rd May, 2024 by 5:10pm.

“This part of the judgement is very fundamental to the entire matter. Further implication of the ruling is that all actions done by the Government before the emergence of the interim order of the honorable Court, are equally validated. This means that, the abolishing of the Five emirates created in 2019 is validated and the deposition of the Five emirs is also sustained by the Federal High Court.

“By implication this means that Muhammadu Sanusi II remains the emir of Kano. The Judge also granted our application for the stay of proceedings until the Court of Appeal deals with the appeal before it on jurisdiction.

“Happily, the signing of the law and the reinstatement of His Highness, Emir Muhamad Sunusi II, were done on 23rd May, 2024 before the emergence of the Interim Order which was served on us on Monday 27th May, 2024.

“Following this Court’s ruling, Kano State Government has directed the State Commissioner of Police to remove the deposed emir of the 8 metropolitan local governments from the Government property where he is trespassing as Government has already concluded arrangements for the general reconstruction and renovation of the property including the demolishing and reconstruction of the dilapidated wall fence with immediate effect.

“I want to congratulate and call on the good people of Kano State to remain peaceful and celebrate the success of the people without any hitch. May Allah SWT continue to protect our State and our government.”

LG Secretariats In Rivers To Remain Closed – IGP, Snubs Those Calling For Sack

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Ayodele Oni

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June 20, 2024

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By Ayodele Oni

There are indications that newly inaugurated Local Government Caretaker Members in Rivers State may not have access to the Councils Secretariat soon.

This is because the Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun has directed the continuation of the police barricade on Local Government Secretariat in the State to prevent a breakdown of law and order.

IGP Egbetokun gave the directive on Thursday in Abuja while fielding questions from Journalists on the sideline of a Conference with Commissioners of Police and other Senior Officers.

He also spoke on the call for his sack by Unions in the Police Service Commission (PSC) for daring to criticize recent recruitment exercise by the body.

The IGP maintained that the Police will continue to occupy the Secretariats until a Court of competent jurisdiction delivers judgment on the Local Government crisis in Rivers State.

Egbetokun, who also spoke on the controversy over the recruitment of constables and the allegations by the Police Service Commission (PSC) said the management of the Force will not sit idly and watch questionable and untrainable persons recruited into the Police.

Egbetokun maintained that the Nigeria Police Force is a specialised institution that is not meant for all Nigerians.

According to him, those calling for his sack are entitled to their opinion and he won’t respond to the calls adding that he has no problem with those calling for his sack from office as everyone is entitled to his or her opinion.

Egbetokun, said, “I won’t respond to a call for my removal. Anybody can call for my removal. Anybody who doesn’t like me can come out tomorrow and say, remove the IG. That’s not a problem. We are all entitled to our opinion.”

Rivers: Wike Weighs Option, Strategies for 2027

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The Source

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June 20, 2024

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By Akinjide Aina, Abuja Bureau Chief

As the political crisis in Rivers state rages unabated, sources close to the political camp of Federal Capital Territory Minister and the immediate past Governor of the state, Nyesom Wike, have told The Source (Magazine) that the ex- governor, with 2027 elections in mind, is determined to maintain a firm hold on Rivers politics notwithstanding the current spat between him and his successor, Governor Siminalayi Fubara whom he helped into office.

Governor Fubara has not only been asserting his powers, but has remained defiant, systematically demobilizing the political structures of his immediate predecessor.

To achieve his aims, the Minister, the magazine was informed, is weighing two options:

1.To fully stamp his membership of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, assert his influence and dominance of the party not only in Rivers but in the South-south Zone as the highest ranking member of the party from the state in the Tinubu government.

To formally divorce the PDP, make a grand entry into the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, seize the structure of the Party in Rivers and install himself its(APC) leader in the state.

If the former Governor decides to choose the first option, the implication for Governor Fubra, it was gathered, will be that, aided by a pliant National leadership of the PDP, allegedly, sympathetic to Wike, he will completely be divested of the party’s structures in Rivers and the same handed to the Minister.

With him as the leader of the party and the structures firmly in his kitty, Wike, sources close to his camp claim, will not only nominate the PDP governorship flag bearer for the State in 2027, but will assiduously work, employing federal might, to defeat Fubara.

On the other hand, this Magazine gather that should Wike opt for the second option, the National leadership of the APC which government he serves at the centre, will readily and enthusiastically yield Rivers APC structures to him and hand him a blank cheque to do whatever he wants with the party in the state.

Should this happen, a former Governor of the state and the immediate past Minister for Transport, Chibuike Amaechi, who is currently the leader of the APC in the State, will be completely swept out of relevance and contention in the affairs of the party.

Also, Wike will be in a position to produce the 2027 governorship candidate of the party for Rivers and employ federal might, not as a PDP member serving in an APC Federal Government, but as an APC leader serving in an APC-led Central Government, to dethrone Governor Fubara.

Asked when the Minister was likely to take a definite decision, one of the sources refused to make a disclosure, simply telling the magazine, “just keep your fingers crossed, our opponents are toddlers in politics and we will teach them how the game is played. They will learn the hard way.”

120,000 Boko Haram Fighters Surrender, As Nigerian Army Sues For Operational Synergy With Media

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Suleiman Anyalewechi

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June 20, 2024

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By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Taoheed Lagbaja, has called on all well-meaning Nigerians to maintain faith in the abilities and readiness of the military to eliminate elements and purveyors of insecurity in the country.

He has also assured of the commitment of the Nigerian Army to improve media access to its operations within the bounds of operational security.

The Army Chief who spoke on Thursday June 20, 2024, at the opening ceremony of the Nigerian Army Comic quarterly media chat held in Kano sued for the fostering of an environment that encourages open dialogue and mutual respect between the Army and media.

He expressed the optimism that the welfare of the Nation will be better protected amidst an enhanced atmosphere of understanding, trust and cooperation between the media and Army.

General Lagbaja emphasised that with the Army committed to the conduct of both kinetic and non-kinetic operations geared towards fighting insecurity in the country, there is also the mutual need for the media to engage in responsible and professional practices through balanced and objective reporting of security matters .

“Balanced and objective reporting requires a deliberate effort to ensuring that national interest and security are not jeopardized on the basis of press freedom and urgency to be the first to break the news .

Therefore, Media Executives and Editors should be circumspect when issues of national security and survival are concerned” the COS enjoined.

According to him, being conscious of the need for accurate reporting on the activities of the Army, the General Lagbaja informed that the service has put in place a transparent communication strategy to promote synergy between it and the media.

“We understand the need for accurate reporting on our activities ,as it aids in building trust between the Nigerian Army and the civil populace.

“This underscores the significance of a consistent and transparent communication strategy implemented by the Nigerian Army.

“Let me also emphasise the cruciality of acknowledging and embracing our respective roles and responsibilities within this partnership.

“As the Nigerian Army diligently fulfils its constitutional mandates, it is equally imperative for the media to uphold the highest standards of professionalism ,accuracy, impartiality and patriotism.

“By doing so, media practitioners can ensure that their reports contribute positively to national security objectives.

“Together, we can enhance public understanding, build trust and promote the greater welfare of our beloved nation.

“Please, note that the collaboration between the military and the media should not be limited to the reporting of conflicts, terrorism or security threats alone .

“We must extend our engagements to areas of national development ,peace building and community engagement.

“The Nigerian Army is fully aware of the intricacies and challenges that characterize our nation at present . As a result, the imperativeness to address security challenges has led us to increase the tempo in various theatres of operation .

“I am pleased to state that the Nigerian Army in collaboration with sister Services and other security agencies has continued to record remarkable successes .

“You may be aware that troops of the Nigerian Army operating with other security agencies have recorded significant milestones in operations across our theatres within Nigeria .

“Specifically, our gallant troops in the Northeast have neutralized hundreds of terrorists including scores of their top commanders thereby liberating several of their enclaves in the Sambisa Forest, Timbuktu triangle and the Madera mountains .

“Similar feats have also been achieved in the Northwest, North Central Southeast, Southwest and South south regions .

“The culminating effects of these operations include the rescue of abducted Nigerians ,such as the 350 persons rescued from Sambisa Forest last month ,the surrender of over 120,000 Boko Haram fighters and their families in the Northeast ,the desire of over 20,000 Nigeria refugees in the Cameroon to return to their ancestral homes in Borno and Adamawa states and the thwarting/ rescue of thousands of kidnapped incidents /victims across the country ” the COS stated.