Benue: How Robbers Killed DPO, Three Officers

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October 21, 2023

By Ayodele Oni

Benue State Police Command has confirmed the killing of a Divisional Police Officer, (DPO) and three other officers during simultaneous robberies in three banks.

The Command’s spokesperson, Anene Caterine, confirmed the incident in a statement on Saturday.

The statement reads: “On 20/10/2023 at about 1615hrs, armed robbers invaded Access, First, Zenith, UBA and Stanbic bank Otukpo simultaneously.

“The Otukpo Divisional Police Officer, CSP. John Adikwu and other Police teams in the area engaged them in a gun duel, but were unable to prevent their attack on the banks.

“More police teams in collaboration with other security agents have been deployed to Otukpo to assist in stabilizing the area and prevent these robbers from escaping.

“The robbers, who were intercepted along Otukpo-Taraku road engaged officers in a gun duel and two of the robbers died in the process.

“Other gang members abandoned their vehicles and escaped into the forest area and are being chased by the Police.

“The DPO, who sustained a gunshot injury on his stomach and three other police officers have been confirmed dead at the hospital.

“Other persons who sustained injuries in the bank have been moved to the hospital for treatment. Investigation is ongoing at the moment.”

Anyaoku Says Nigeria Will Move Forward If It Changes Its Constitution

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Akinwale Kasali

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October 21, 2023

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By Akinwale Kasali

Emeka Anyaoku, a former Secretary General of the Commonwealth has stated the need for Nigeria to change its Constitution in order to witness astronomic development and growth.

He said the nation is in dire need of a new Constitution to arrest the ongoing deterioration of Nigeria’s situation.

Anyaoku added that to achieve the desired transformation for the better, the country needs a system of government that not only addresses Nigeria’s diversity but is also based on a Constitution that can correctly be described as the Nigerian people’s Constitution.

He said, “The essence of the new Constitution should, in recognition of the crucial principle of subsidiarity in every successful Federation, involve a devolution of powers from the Central Government to fewer and more viable federating units with strong provisions for inclusive governance at the centre and in the regions as was agreed by Nigeria’s founding fathers”.

Anyaoku spoke in Ado Ekiti, the Ekiti State capital on Friday while delivering the 2023 Convocation Lecture of Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti, titled: “Management of diversity: A major challenge to governance in pluralistic countries”.

Anyaoku said that Nigeria successfully managed diversity in the early years of independence when “Nigeria’s diversity was perceived by all as a source of strength and inspirer of national unity. But all this changed when the military intervened in the country’s governance in January 1966 and changed the existing constitution.”

According to him, under the Constitution, before military intervention, there was security of life and property, and there was a faster pace of economic development in the regions, adding that healthy competition among the regions facilitated rapid development across the country.

He said, “In contrast, today if truth be told, the situation in our country is lamentable. There is an unprecedented level of divisiveness and a declining sense of national unity; the economy is in the doldrums, with 133 million of our population in multidimensional poverty.

“There is great insecurity throughout the land as we hear every day of killings and kidnappings by unknown gunmen and marauding bandits; all our infrastructure, including power supply, roads, and educational and health facilities, are in a poor state.

“Added to all this, there is a complete bastardisation of our society’s ethical values and an unfathomable level of corruption evident in the often reported massive looting and mismanagement of the country’s resources, including the continuing unbridled theft of our crude oil.

However, despite these, he said, “I believe that Nigeria is still salvageable. The country can still be restored to greater peace, greater security, a renewed sense of national unity, greater political stability, and a more assured pace of economic development.

“To arrest the ongoing deterioration of the situation in the country and to achieve the desired transformation for the better, we need a system of government that not only addresses our diversity but is also based on a Constitution that can correctly be described as a Nigerian people’s Constitution.

“Accordingly, I call on the Presidency in consultation with the National Assembly, instead of continuing to tinker with the 1999 Constitution, to acknowledge the urgent necessity of a new Constitution to be made by the people of Nigeria.”

He advised the President Bola Tinubu-led Federal Government to immediately “convene a National Constituent Assembly of directly elected representatives on a non-party basis whose task would be to discuss and agree on a new Constitution,” taking into account the 1963 and the 1999 Constitutions and the recommendations of the 2014 national conference.

“The Constituent Assembly should be given six months to produce the draft new Constitution. The agreed draft constitution should be put to a national referendum for adoption by a majority of the voters, after which it should be signed by the President,” he said.

Failing Health: Nollywood Actor, Okafor Gets Medical Support From Bukola Saraki Foundation

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Ayodele Oni

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October 21, 2023

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By Ayodele Oni

Succour has come for John Okafor, aka Mr Ibu a Nollywood Actor over his failing health as the Abubakar Bukola Saraki Foundation has fully taken up his medical expenses.

Ibu had earlier in the week appealed to Nigerians to come to his aid over his failing health, which may lead to the amputation of his legs.

The Foundation, owned by former Senate President, Bukola Saraki, in a statement shared on its Facebook page stated that the assistance covers the entire medical expenses of the actor.

The statement added that”The Abubakar Bukola Saraki Foundation is honoured to have extended support to Mr John Okafor also known as Mr. Ibu, a renowned comedic icon who has graced our screens and brought joy and laughter to countless homes over the past four decades.

“When we learned of his recent health challenges and the financial burdens associated with his medical treatment, we felt a deep sense of responsibility to assist in any way we could. We promptly paid off his entire medical expenses as of Wednesday.

“We encourage everyone who can to come forward and assist in any capacity, whether it’s through financial contributions, moral support, or prayers.

“We wish him a swift and complete recovery.”

My Role In NURTW Crisis That Of Mediator – Labour Minister

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Ayodele Oni

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October 21, 2023

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By Ayodele Oni

The Minister for Labour and Employment, Simon Lalong has cleared the air over allegations of siding a faction in the crisis-ridden National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW).

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) had accused the Minister of an unholy alliance with a faction in the crisis, and threatened to call out workers on strike if the action persists.

However, Lalong, in a statement by his Media Office at the weekend expressed the readiness of the Minister to ensure the peaceful resolution of the impasse.

The statement, signed by the Director of Information, Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, Mr. Olajide Oshundun reads:

“The attention of the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment has been drawn to a press release issued by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) on 18th October 2023, wherein it alleged that the Honourable Minister, Rt. Hon. Simon Bako Lalong is moving to undermine the critical Labour-Federal Government Agreement of October 2, 2023.

“We wish to unequivocally refute the allegation and put it on record that it is unfounded. Let it be reiterated that since assuming office and upon the dispute between the various groups within the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) being brought to his attention, the Honourable Minister has given consistent, adequate and fair attention to the matter with a view to resolving it.

“Several meetings have been held to resolve the issue with representatives of the disputing groups, and the efforts are still ongoing.

“Therefore, it is not correct to suggest that the Minister is supporting any of the groups in the course of the negotiations.

“Members of the NURTW, the NLC, and the entire Labour movement should be assured that the Minister, as Chief Conciliator, will continue to work with all parties to ensure that there is reconciliation, harmony and industrial peace.”

However, not a few people believe that the Minister is likely to be in support of the M.C. Oluomo faction of the crisis against the Baruwa faction, given the relationship of the former to the Presidency.

Sacked NURTW Boss, Baruwa Alleges Lalong Frustrating Reconciliation Process

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Akinwale Kasali

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October 21, 2023

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By Akinwale Kasali

Days after the National Union of Road Transport Workers, NURTW, Stakeholders passed a Vote of no confidence on Tajudeen Baruwa, the sacked National President of the Union has accused Minister for Labour and Employment, Simon Lalong, of exhibiting bias in the ongoing reconciliation process.

Baruwa alleged l conspiracy, plot and biases from the former Plateau State Governor, stressing that he is favouring the Tajudeen Agbede-led faction of the Union.

The accusation was made public in a statement issued by the General Secretary of the Union, Comrade Anthony Asogwa Chukwudi, in Abuja.

Baruwa asserted that Minister Lalong held a secret meeting with the Agbede faction on Wednesday, October 18, 2023, and allegedly advised them to arrange a fresh National Quadrennial Delegates Conference.

Such advice, Baruwa states, contravenes the Union’s constitution, particular Article 8 Section 2 (1).

“Recall that our constitution, approved by the Ministry of Labour and Employment, stipulates that the quadrennial delegates conference of the union shall hold in August of every four years,” said Chukwudi.

The statement further highlighted that a trusted source who attended the meeting but wished to remain anonymous revealed that the Minister explicitly encouraged the Agbede group to proceed with the new conference, asserting that they should not allow the Union to disintegrate because of one person.

Baruwa expressed his surprise and concern at the Minister’s private meeting with the Agbede faction, especially because a reconciliation meeting had already been scheduled for October 24, 2023.

“When such a statement comes from a government official expected to be an unbiased umpire, it only worsens the Union’s problem,” Baruwa lamented.

He also noted his shock upon discovering that the Agbede-led group continues to operate at the National Secretariat of the Union, despite a directive from Minister Lalong on October 9, 2023, that suspended all operations of both factions.

For the avoidance of doubt, the Union held its special zonal delegates conference in the six geopolitical zones of the Union on May 24, 2023, and those who emerged were sworn-in on August 23, 2023, at Ta’al Hotel in Lafia, Nasarawa State,” Chukwudi clarified.

In light of these developments, Baruwa called on Lalong to reconsider his actions and avoid further jeopardizing the reconciliation process within the Union.

“It is most unfortunate and unbecoming of the Minister, a lawyer, to be seen supporting or laying credence to lawlessness and ‘civilian coup d’état’,” he stated.

The statement ended with Baruwa dismissing claims that the NLC was imposing him on the Union, insisting instead that Alhaji Najeem Yasin was trying to foist Alhaji Tajudeen Agbede on the Union.

Security: Worried IGP Convenes Retreat/ Conference For Senior Officers

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The Source

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October 21, 2023

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Worried by the daily deteriorating insecurity across the Country, the Acting Inspector General of Police, Dr Kayode Egbetokun is convening a Security Conference/Retreat for Senior Police Managers.

Imo State is the host of the event which promises to redraw the Security architecture of the Country.

A Press Statement issued by ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, Force Public Relations Officer to the effect reads:

“The Inspector-General of Police, Ag. IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, NPM, Ph.D., as part of his firm commitment to ensuring internal security stability and creating a secure environment conducive for the implementation of the Federal Government’s policies, has sanctioned the organization of the Fourth Edition of the Conference and Retreat for Senior Police Officers. The gathering themed ‘Fostering Economic Prosperity, Social Integration and Political Development through Enhanced Internal Security Mechanism’ is scheduled to take place from October 30th to November 1st, 2023, at the Landmark Event Centre, Owerri, Imo State.

“The Conference and Retreat will bring together Senior Police Officers of the rank of Deputy Inspectors-General of Police, Assistant Inspectors-General of Police, and Commissioners of Police. Moreover, it will involve the participation of carefully selected security management experts from across the globe, fostering peer review and the exchange of ideas on four prominent topics under four syndicates viz Service Scheme for the Nigeria Police Force; Professionalizing the Force Criminal Investigations Department (FCID); Re-orientation Programme for Officers and Men of the Nigeria Police Force; and Police Pension Scheme: Review of Changes in Pension Scheme and Suggestion of Further Changes.

“The retreat will also serve as a platform for senior officers of the Force to engage with key officials from sister security agencies, national and international development partners on in-depth discussions and strategic planning to enhance internal security mechanisms within the nation.

“The Conference and Retreat anticipates the presence of President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, who will inaugurate the Conference and deliver the keynote address. Furthermore, distinguished guests expected at the event include State Governors, Service Chiefs, Heads of other Security Agencies, the President of INTERPOL, past Inspectors-General of Police, Traditional Rulers, and other Community Leaders including the youths, the press and CLOs.

“To ensure the seamless organization of a successful and purpose-driven Conference and Retreat, the Inspector-General of Police is collaborating with Matchmakers Consult International.

“The Inspector General of Police, while encouraging the active engagement of all senior police officers in the country in this momentous occasion, urges them to share their valuable perspectives to bolster collaborative endeavours in fortifying internal security. He stressed that by promoting economic growth, societal cohesion, and political progress, the police can assume a central position in the advancement and prosperity of Nigeria.”

Edo Gov. Obaseki Greets Benin Monarch On Birthday, Coronation Anniversary

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Ayodele Oni

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October 20, 2023

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Godwin Obaseki with Oba of Benin - Ewuare II

By Ayodele Oni

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has congratulated Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II, the Oba of Benin, on his birthday celebration and seventh coronation anniversary.

The Governor, in a statement, he personally signed, celebrated the Oba of Benin for his invaluable contributions to the growth and development of the State.

Obaseki said, “I heartily felicitate with His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II, Oba of Benin, on the auspicious occasion of your seventh coronation anniversary and birthday celebration.

“We have all continued to gain from your fatherly guidance and invaluable contributions to the growth and development of our dear State.

“As a government, we will continue to partner with Your Royal Majesty and the Royal Palace in advancing our collective interest and preserving the rich cultural heritage of the great Benin Kingdom and its people.

“We pray that the Almighty God continues to give you good health, wisdom and longevity to sit on the exalted throne of your forefathers and benevolently steer the affairs of the kingdom.

“On behalf of the Government and good people of Edo State, I congratulate you and pray that peace, progress and prosperity continue to be the hallmark of your long reign. Oba Gha To Kpere, Ise!!!”

Customs: Tinubu Confirms Adeniyi As CG

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James Orji

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October 20, 2023

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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the appointment of Adewale Adeniyi as the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, NCS.

The approval was contained in a statement issued on Friday by Willie Bassey, Director of Information, Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, SGF.

The statement said the customs boss’ confirmation comes five months after he was appointed in acting capacity by President Tinubu as replacement for Hameed Ali.

The statement reads, “His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has approved the confirmation of the appointment of Adewale Adeniyi (MFR) as the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service.

“The appointment takes effect from 19th October, 2023 and his tenure is in accordance with the extant provisions of the Public Service Rules (PSR). The President tasks him to bring his wealth of experience to bear on his new assignment.”

President Tinubu Approves Part Payment Of Withheld Salaries Of ASUU Members

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Ayodele Oni

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October 20, 2023

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By Ayodele Oni

Members of the Academic Staff Union of Universities, (ASUU) got a presidential pardon on Friday over their prolonged eight months strike last year during which their salaries were stopped.

Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, explained in a statement that the pardon, which will lead to payment of their withheld salaries, was given on a Principle of the Presidential Prerogative of Mercy and will see the university lecturers receiving salaries of four months out of eight.

According to the statement, “In view of his determination to mitigate the difficulties being felt during the implementation of key economic reforms in the country, as well as his recognition of the faithful implementation of terms which were agreed upon during the fruitful deliberations between ASUU and the Federal Government of Nigeria, President Bola Tinubu has directed the grant of an exceptional last waiver of the “No Work, No Pay” Order on ASUU

“Invoking the Principle of the Presidential Prerogative of Mercy, President Bola Tinubu has approved the partial waiver of the “No Work, No Pay” Order that was instituted against striking members of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) following the commencement of their eight-month industrial action which began on February 14, 2022 and was terminated on October 17, 2022.

“The President has directed the grant of the waiver with a mandatory requirement that the Federal Ministry of Education and the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment must secure a Document of Understanding (DoU) establishing that this exceptional waiver granted by the President will be the last one to be granted to the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) and all other Education Sector Unions.”

EFCC Reveals Commission Do Not Issue Warrant Of Arrest To Loan Defaulters

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Akinwale Kasali

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October 20, 2023

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By Akinwale Kasali

Anti-Graft agency, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, has distanced itself from rumors making the round by Loan Companies that it issues Warrant of Arrest to Loan Companies for Loan Defaulters.

Emphatically debunking the claims in a statement released on its official X account on Friday, the EFCC stated that they do not issue arrest warrants as purported by these companies.

According to the EFCC, some of these companies send out documents with lists of those on the Commission’s alleged arrest list to scare defaulters into paying their loans.

The Commission warned such companies to desist from such ‘fraudulent engagements as the EFCC may stop at nothing to bring them to book.’

The statement titled, ‘EFCC Does not Issue Arrest Warrant on Loan Defaulters’, reads: “The attention of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, has been drawn to some contrived documents on ‘Arrest Warrant Processing,’ ‘Loan Fraud Escalation,’ and others being circulated by some loan companies, purportedly issued by the Commission against loan defaulters.

“Authors of such documents falsely link their threats against loan defaulters to the Commission.

“The public is enjoined to be wary of such claims. As a rule, the EFCC does not issue arrest warrants on loan defaulters.

“Loan companies linking the Commission to their loan recovery efforts should desist from such fraudulent engagements as the EFCC may stop at nothing to bring them to book.”