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Abuja: How Police Killed Our Members – Shi’ite Islamic Members

By
Suleiman Anyalewechi
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Shi'ite Members attack Police Check Point

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

Leaders  of the Islamic movement has promised to  provide details of their members, allegedly, killed, injured and arrested by the Police to the public soonest.

The Police and the Islamic Group were engaged in a fatal clash in Abuja on Sunday.

Two Policemen were killed. A couple of others were left unconscious. And three Police patrol vehicles were set ablaze by the Group.

According to a statement issued by the FCT Police Spokesperson, Josephine Adeh, the Islamic Group launched an unprovoked attack on Police Personnel on routine duties at a checkpoint in Wuse area of the Federal Capital Territory.

The statement said the attackers, wielding some dangerous weapons like machetes, improvised explosive devices and knives visited mayhem on the Police, killed two Police personnel, left three unconscious and set three operational vehicles ablaze. The injured are in a medical facility where frantic efforts are being made to keep them alive.

Police said some arrests have been made.

But the Spokesman for the Islamic Group, Sidi Mainasara, in a statement insisted that the Police killed  several members of the Group who were part of the Arbaeen Trek procession

“We wish to inform the public that the Police have attacked the ongoing Arab’een Symbolic Trek at Wuse District in Abuja and killed numerous mourners, while trying to disperse the Arba’een procession.

“Presently, Security Agents are busy arresting the Arbaeen Trek mourners.

“Medical personnel are attending to those critically injured and details of those killed, injured and arrested will be made available to members of the press in due course”, the statement reads in part.

The Source reports that the Arbaeen Trek, is  observed annually by the group which Leader El Zak Zaky has been in detention for years now.

The Zaria based IMN Leader is being held on alleged terrorism charges by the Federal Government of Nigeria.

Abuja: Suspected Shi’ite Members, Attack Check Point, Kill Two Policemen, Raze Three Patrol Vehicles

By
Ayodele Oni
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Shi'ite Members attack Police Check Point

By Ayodele Oni

Suspected Shi’ite members have, reportedly, attacked Policemen at a checkpoint in Abuja, leading to the death of two officers.

Josephine Adeh, Police Public Relations Officer in the FCT, said in a statement on Sunday that, already, Police have effected several arrests.

The statement stated: “The FCT Police Command wishes to confirm an unprovoked attack by the proscribed Islamic Movement of Nigeria, popularly known as the ‘Shi’ite’ group, on some personnel of the Nigeria Police Force attached to FCT command at Wuse Junction by traffic light.

“Two (2) Police personnel were killed, three left unconscious in the hospital, and three (3) Police patrol vehicles set ablaze.

“The proscribed organisation attacked the police checkpoint unprovoked, wielding machetes, improvised explosive devices (locally made bombs in bottles with kerosene), and knives.

“While several arrests have been effected, the Commissioner of Police FCT, CP Benneth C. Igweh, Psc. mni. Condemns the unprovoked attack on Police officers.

“He promises to bring those involved to book. The situation is presently under control and normalcy restored.”

Plateau LG Poll: IPAC Canvasses Youth Orientation To Curb Thugery

By
Ayodele Oni
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Independent National Electoral Commission - INEC

By Ayodele Oni

Ahead of Local Governments Election in Plateau State, the Inter Party Advisory Council, (IPAC) has called on the State Independent Electoral Commission (PLASIEC) to come up with an orientation campaign to educate youths on what is expected of them, ahead of the election.

Secretary of IPAC in the State, Aminu Muhammad made the call during a youths programme in Jos central Mosque.

Plateau State has fixed October 9, 2024, for the conduct of local government elections.

The Chairman of the state Independent Electoral Commission, Plangji Cishak, disclosed this during a meeting with leaders of political parties held at the commission’s headquarters in Jos.

Cishak said the council poll would be conducted across the 17 local government areas of the state, which are currently under the management of Transition Implementation Committee Chairmen.

The IPAC scribe noted that IPAC is in constant touch with the youth to address issues of thuggery and gangsterism which are factors that can bring about setbacks in any society.

Aminu Hadi pleaded with the youths to engage in skills trade to boost the economy of the state, adding that, there are no much employment in the state.

The Secretary general maintained that, security agencies should work twenty four seven to enhance security now and during the local government elections.

He therefore, appealed to government to ensure that it provided all that are needed for the exercise to achieve it purposes.

Participants at the seminar were Youths drawn from all the 14 wards in Jos North.

Emir Of Ningi Dies 48 Hours After Return From Mecca, Governor Bala Mourns

By
Akinwale Kasali
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Emir of Ningi, Dr Yunusa Muhammadu Dan Yaya

By Akinwale Kasali

The Bauchi State Government has been thrown into mourning following the death of the Emir of Ningi, Dr. Yunusa Muhammadu Dan Yaya.

Thr revered Monarch passed away at the age of 88 Years.

The Monarch died in the early hours of Sunday, August 25, at Expert Alliance Hospital in Kano State, 48 hours after returning from Mecca, Saudi Arabia.

Born in 1936, Dr. Dan Yaya was installed as Emir of Ningi in 1978.

Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, has extended his condolences to the late Emir’s family and the Emirate Council.

The Governor, in a statement made available to journalists by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mukhtar Gidado, said his death has left an irreplaceable void in the hearts of the people of Ningi Emirate, Bauchi State, and Nigeria at large.

The statement reads: “It is with deep sorrow and heavy hearts that the Bauchi State Government announces the passing of His Royal Highness, the Emir of Ningi, Alhaji (Dr.) Yunusa Muhammadu Danyaya, OON, a highly respected First-Class Emir in Bauchi State. His death has left an irreplaceable void in the hearts of the people of Ningi Emirate, Bauchi State, and Nigeria at large.”

“Alhaji Yunusa Muhammadu Danyaya was a man of peace, wisdom, and immense dedication to the welfare of his people.”

“Throughout his reign, he exemplified the highest values of leadership, fostering unity, progress, and development across Ningi Emirate. His legacy as a guardian of tradition, culture, and Islamic values will continue to inspire future generations.

“In this moment of grief, the Bauchi State Government, led by His Excellency, Governor Bala Mohammed, extends its deepest condolences to the immediate family of the late Emir, the Ningi Emirate Council, and the entire people of Bauchi State.

“We mourn with you in this great loss and pray that Almighty Allah grants the departed soul eternal peace in Jannatul Firdaus. May Allah also grant his family, the people of Ningi, and all those affected by this loss the strength and fortitude to bear the loss.”

DSS Frees Detained Journalist, IPI Seeks Release Of Passport

By
Ayodele Oni
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Adejuwon Soyinka

By Ayodele Oni

The International Press Institute, (IPI) says it has waded in and secured the release of Adejuwon Soyinka, a former employee of BBC Pidgin Service who was earlier arrested by officers of the Department of State Services (DSS).

Soyinka, Regional Editor, West Africa of the Conversation Africa and Pioneer Editor of the BBC  was arrested by officers of the DSSS in Lagos  Sunday morning at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos.

He had arrived at about 5.20am on Virgin Atlantic from London.

IPI, in a statement signed by Ahmed Shekarau, Secretary, and

Tobi Soniyi, Legal Adviser/Chair, Advocacy Committee, condemned the arrest, which they said is unbecoming of President Bola Tinubu’s Government

The statement reads “We hereby condemn the arrest of the Regional Editor, West Africa of the Conversation Africa and Pioneer Editor of the BBC Pidgin Service, Adejuwon Soyinka, by officers of the State Security Service (SSS) in Lagos.

“Mr Soyinka was arrested and taken into custody at the Muritala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos around 5.40am on Sunday the 25th of August, 2024 shortly after he arrived Nigeria via a Virgin Atlantic flight from the United Kingdom.

“Following the intervention of IPI Nigeria, the SSS released Mr Soyinka on bail after detaining him for not less than six hours.

“However, the secret police is still holding on to his international passport.

“Although no reason has been given for his arrest and subsequent detention, we view the action of the SSS as part of a plot to intimidate and harass journalists by the President Bola Tinubu administration.

“Mr Soyinka’s arrest and detention are not isolated cases. Since President Tinubu assumed office on May 29, 2023, we have noticed a systematic clampdown on journalists across the country.

“The gestapo manner with which Segun Olatunji was arrested and flew from Lagos to Abuja is still fresh in mind.

“During the #ENDBADGOVERNANCEINNIGERIA protests across the nation, journalists were directly shot at reminiscent of the dark days of the military.

“Hiding under the Cybercrime Act, the Police have embarked on indiscriminate harassment and  arrest of journalists.

“For the flimsiest reason, journalists are being invited or arrested. The plan is to stop journalists from carrying out their legitimate duty.

“We hereby demand the immediate and unconditional release of Mr Soyinka’s international passport.

“We also demand a commitment from the Federal Government to uphold the freedom of the press and stop further harassment and intimidation of journalists.

“In the main, we advise journalists to be vigilant and go about their reportorial duty with the highest commitment to professional ethics.”

Gov Obaseki Leases Edo Specialists Hospital To Inexperienced Consultants – Oshiomole

By
Ayodele Oni
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Senator Adams Aliyu Oshiomhole and Godwin Obaseki

By Ayodele Oni

Former Governor of Edo state, Adams Oshiomole has accused his successor in office, Godwin Obaseki of contracting out Edo Specialists Hospital in Benin to those that have no knowledge of hospital management.

Oshiomole, now Senator representing Edo North Senatorial District, disclosed plans by the Edo State All Progressives Congress (APC)-led government to privatize the hospital and make the heath facility accessible to  residents in the State if candidate of the party, Monday Okpebholo wins the September 21st governorship poll.

The multi-billion 120- bed capacity, which was built with tax payers money during second tenure of Oshiomhole as Governor and inaugurated by Muhammadu Buhari, was privatized by his successor, Governor Godwin Obaseki-led government.

It also demolished Central hospital Complex beside the health facility and allocated the land for the proposed Museum for West Africa Arts (MOWAA) project.

Oshiomhole, who stated this at Edo APC governorship campaign on Saturday in Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area of the State, assured that next government will carry out a comprehensive audit about the transactions on the privatization regarding the hospital administration and management.

This is to ensure that culprits behind the alleged fraudulent deal that makes healthcare accessible only to the rich are prosecuted.

He accused Governor Godwin Obaseki of deploying consultants without knowledge of hospital management to run the Specialist hospital solely for purpose of revenue generation.

He revealed that the APC government would also engage experienced architects and convert the ongoing MOWAA as extension of the Specialist hospital, in order to fit into the initial plan for a benefiting healthcare system that renders medical services to all Edo people at cheap prices.

The former governor stated that the APC-led government would ensure that royalties from Europe that were forcefully confiscated from the Benin Royal Court in the transactions relating to MOWAA by the current administration would be reviewed by ensuring that the Benin Royal Museum is built at the approved location.

Oshiomhole said: “wWe built a 5-star hospital with equipment and President Muhammadu Buhari came to Commission it before the end of my tenure.

“Obaseki, rather than throw it open to Edo people, he went and hired Consultants who are not hospital Management experts.

“He (Obaseki) had a deal with them. They (consultants) are not from Edo State. If you have money, you go, they will charge to render service to you.

“If you do not have money, you either go to a private hospital to die, or you will go to Stella Obasanjo hospital in Benin for treatment.

“That hospital (Edo Specialist) at the time of constructing it was meant for everyone. It was never in my contemplation that it should be reserved for the rich. Monday Okpebholo will return it.

“So, we are warning the Consultants. We have all the items we procured. The company that procured the equipment is still in existence.

“We will do Audit. And if any of those people steal one bit out of the place, they will end up in prison.

“The hospital will be returned to the people of Edo State. Rich and poor will not be charged differently from what Stella Obasanjo hospital charge for treatment.”

Abduction/Killing Of Sokoto Monarch: “My Hands Are Clean” – Law Maker Finally Opens Up

By
Suleiman Anyalewechi
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District Head of Gatawa in Sokoto State - Alhaji Isah Muhammad

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

For days he had remained in the shadows. For days too, he had kept mute over allegations of being the unseen hand behind the abduction, and subsequent killing of Alhaji Isah Mohammed Bawa, the District Head of Gatawa Sabon Birnin Sokoto state.

But on Sunday, August 25, 2024, the Lawmaker representing Sabon Birnin North at the Sokoto State House of Assembly, Hon. Boza, finally opened up, and distanced himself from the gruesome act.

The Source reports that the Royal Father and his son, Barau Isah, were mid- July kidnapped on their way back to his domain from Sokoto, the State capital, by some suspected bandits.

Weeks later, Barau, his son, secured his freedom with a staggering N60 million ransom paid. But the haughty amount placed on the head of his father – one billion Naira – delayed his rescue.

The Monarch was pronounced dead in the abductors den last Wednesday. That was after he had passionately and desperately, but fruitlessly sort help from different quarters, including the Sokoto state Government to meet the demands of his captors.

His son, after his freedom, told the world that his ordeal and that of his father was orchestrated by a sitting legislator.

However, Hon. Boza in a  short audio statement,

also, strongly rejected any links with banditry elements in the State.

He pleaded his innocence in the events that culminated in the unfortunate end of the District Head,

noted that he has been at the forefront of efforts to combat banditry and other forms of criminal activities in the Sabon Birnin axis in particular and the State in general.

In the audio statement, the  Lawmaker also vowed to continue to collaborate in the battle against insurgency and banditry in the State not minding the recent travails.

“I understand that fighting the bandits will not be easy, but if it will cost my life, I will be at peace  knowing that I did everything to satisfy my conscience

“I want to make it clear to the whole world that these allegations will never deter me from from fighting against banditry .

“As I have always said, we need to unite and eliminate these bandits to achieve lasting peace”, Hon Boza noted

But how Boza’s denial will go in persuading the global audience in the face of the damning revelations by Barau, the son of the late District Head, remains debatable.

For one, Barau had claimed in his own video that the bandits, before letting him off the hook, informed him that the  Lawmaker recruited them during the countdown to the 2023 elections.

He, also, stated that the  bandits claimed that the legislator, after the election, has continued to finance their operations, including the abduction of the Monarch.

“The Bandits told me directly that Aminu Boza was the one who gave them the guns to kidnap us.

“They said they received the weapons during the campaign period and  explained that although they did not know my father, they were paid N5 million to abduct him”, Barau alleged.

In all of these claims and counterclaims, the Sokoto State Government has ominously remained silent.

Media Freedom: DSS Arrests Ex-BBC Editor, Adejuwon Soyinka, At Lagos Airport

By
James Orji
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Adejuwon Soyinka

Regional Editor, West Africa of the Conversation Africa and Pioneer Editor of the BBC Pidgin Service, Adejuwon Soyinka has been detained by officers of Department of State Security,DSS, at the Muritala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos.

The incident happened around 5.40am on Sunday the 25th of August, 2024 shortly after he arrived Nigeria via a Virgin Atlantic flight from the United Kingdom.

Up till now, no reason has been given for his detention by the security agency.

Soyinka has not been reachable as messages and calls to his phone have been unanswered.

Nigeria’s Amahah Appointed As Envoy To ECOSOC

By
James Orji
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Promise Amahah

Global Organization for Sustainable Development Goals Inc has appointed Nigeria’s Promise Amahah as designated representative and United Nation’s envoy to the Economic and Social Council, ECOSOC.

This prestigious appointment follows the recommendation of the Committee on Non-Governmental Organizations, NGOs, with Consultative Status of the Global Organization for Sustainable Development Goals Inc.

ECOSOC coordinates the work of the 14 UN specialized agencies, 10 functional commissions and five regional commissions, receives reports from nine UN funds and programmes and issues policy recommendations to the UN system and to Member States.

Amahah, who is the chief executive of the Nigerian thriving renewable energy firm was also recently appointed as the Principal Consultant to the House of Representatives Committee on Renewable Energy.

A statement released, on Sunday, August 25, 2024, by the organisation said the appointment letter signed by Ambassador Dahiru Biu, Founder/CEO, Global Organization for Sustainable Development Goals Inc, stated that
with this appointment, “Mr. Amahah will receive an Annual or Temporary badge/Ground Pass, granting him access to engage with us at the UN Headquarters in New York, Geneva, and Vienna. He will have the opportunity to participate in various ways through ECOSOC and its subsidiary bodies, the Human Rights Council, and under specific conditions, some meetings of the General Assembly. Additionally, he will engage with other intergovernmental bodies and the United Nations Secretariat.

“We are also pleased to extend an offer of appointment to Mr. Amahah as our Global Lead on Projects and Strategy for our Climate Change team. This role, appointed by the CEO and recommended by the President Co-Founder and Vice Chair of the Board with Veto Powers, will be for a period of one year, renewable annually as needed.

“Mr. Amahah’s assignment will pave the way for him to be an integral part of our team, driving forward our mission to address climate change and promote sustainable development on a global scale.

“We are confident that Mr. Amahah’s expertise and dedication will significantly contribute to our efforts in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. We look forward to his valuable contributions and leadership in this critical role.” 

Amahah is a seasoned agribusiness expert with over a decade of experience. He has significantly contributed to the development of rice and maize value chains and played a pivotal role in Agrotek’s strategic planning. His innovative approach led to the creation of the first tablet fertilizer certified by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture.

As the Director General of the Nigerian Young Farmers Network, Mr. Amahah has empowered countless young Nigerians through training and mentorship programs. His leadership has fostered a new generation of agripreneurs and earned him recognition at international forums.

In community development, Amahah has consulted for NOSDRA and the Federal Ministry of Environment, addressing critical environmental issues. His efforts have earned him numerous accolades, including the Top 12 Nigeria Youth Awards and the National Clean Energy Innovation Challenge.

NIA DG, Abubakar Resigns

By
Ayodele Oni
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Ahmed Rufai Abubakar - NIA DG

By Ayodele Oni

Report indicates that the Director-General, (DG) of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Ahmed Rufai Abubakar, has resigned.

He is reported to have tendered his resignation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

He was first appointed in 2018 by former President Muhammadu Buhari, who extended his stay in office in December 2021.

A reliable State House source confided: “DG, National Intelligence Agency, NIA, Ahmed Rufai Abubakar tenders resignation to President Tinubu.”

He attended Bayero University in Kano, where he bagged bachelor’s and master’s degrees in French. He also speaks English and Arabic.

Abubakar, a 71-year-old retired career foreign service officer from Katsina State, was appointed Head of the Agency by former President Muhammadu Buhari in January 2018.

His tenure was extended in 2021.

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