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Supreme Court Judgement In IGP, PSC Case In Best Interest Of National Security – Arase

August 27, 2023

On the 11th of July, 2023, the Supreme Court decided and laid to rest the contentious issue and controversy between the Police Service Commission and the Nigeria Police Force, as to whose duty it is to recruit constables for the Nigeria Police. In the judgment; the Supreme Court unequivocally pronounced the Police Service Commission as the agency statutorily mandated to do so.

Prior to the judgment, efforts were already in process and at advanced stage towards amicable resolution of the issue between the two critical institutions, as it was highly embarrassing to Government, and indeed other stakeholders for the duo which ought to work in harmony and mutuality to have engaged in such avoidable legal disputation over an issue that sought understanding, respect and compromise.

Reacting to the judgment, Commission Chairman, Dr. Solomon Arase, CFR, retired Inspector General of Police said the judgment simply and legally cements the resolution of the issue in a win-win situation for the two institutions which ordinarily cannot effectively function, and deliver on its respective mandates without the cooperation of each other. It must be said and seen, therefore, that the judgment is delivered for the overall best interest of our national security, and goes to underscore the imperative need for harmonious working relationship and mutual trust amongst agencies of

Government. Consequently, it is important that all concerned de-escalate and eschew all forms of hostilities, misconceptions, preconceptions and

prejudices against each other which were at the base of the hitherto characterizing of a no love lost relationship between the Commission and the NPF. He noted that the unnecessary imbrogilo impacted negatively on the Staff of the Police Service Commission and officers and other ranks of the Nigeria Police Force.

Going forward, he announced that a Recruitment Board has been constituted,

chaired by the Police Service Commission, with other relevant stakeholders as members, and will be inaugurated in no distant time. The Board will screen and ensure that only able and qualified members of the public are recruited into the NPF, reflecting also the principle of Federal Character.

The imperativeness of peace, harmony and cordiality between the two institutions, according to him cannot be over-emphasized, as contemporary security

provisioning has become more tasking than ever, and demands a robust policy guideline from the Commission, if the Nigeria Police Force must

be repositioned for greater efficiency and effectiveness in not only meeting up with the myriad of security challenges confronting our dear country, Nigeria, but also birthing a responsive, responsible and

accountable police to our people. Peace is essential for growth and success of any institution in delivering on its mandate, and it is hoped that the Commission and NPF will continue to build and consolidate on the emerging trust, confidence and mutual respect which will aggregate

to foster and entrench a culture of love and symbiotic relationship between the two agencies, towards the attainment of our statutory

mandates, for a greater, safer, prosperous and more secure Nigeria.

Ikechukwu Ani
Head, Press and Public Relations

Yes, I Am A Serving Youth Corper, No Constitutional Provision Stops Me From Serving As Minister – Musawa

Ayodele Oni

August 27, 2023

By Ayodele Oni

Minister for Art, Culture, Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, has confirmed her membership of the National Youth Corps Service, (NYSC).

Reacting to rising uproar about her status as a serving Corps Member and Minister, Musawa said on Sunday that she has not run foul of any section of Nigeria’s constitution.

The Minister explained in a statement that “The last couple of days have witnessed barrage of media attacks and misinformation about me following my appointment and swearing-in as the Minister of Art, Culture and Creative Economy by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

“I want to, again, thank President Tinubu for finding me worthy and for giving me the opportunity to serve the country I love as one of his Ministers.

“It is true I am currently on the NYSC National Service which I began eight months ago as a matter of duty and devotion to my country, having been unable to complete the scheme since I was first mobilized in 2001.

“I started the mandatory National Service as a Corp member deployed to Akwa-Ibom State (pls confirm state) in 2001 upon the completion of my university education.

“I could not complete the service same year after my redeployment to Kaduna State due to family obligations. Despite this, it has been my personal resolve and commitment that I will always fulfil this national duty whenever I am opportuned to do so.

“I applied to NYSC to be mobilized again for national service last year. NYSC graciously mobilized and deployed me to serve in Abuja where I have been serving in the last eight months before my current appointment as a Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“I will like to state clearly that contrary to wrong insinuations and false assumptions in a section of the mainstream media and social media where false accusations have been made, there is no breach of any law or constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as amended regarding my current position as a Minister and status as serving Corp member.

“It must be said that there is no law of Nigeria or any part of the our constitution and NYSC Act that states that a serving Corp member can not be appointed by the President of Nigeria or any other appointing authority into political positions.

“Equally, no part of our existing laws and NYSC Act says that a corp member must finish service before he/she can be appointed into political office. There is no legal and constitutional limitations whatsoever. I have not broken any law of Nigeria.

“In fact, in a decided case before a Federal High Court Abuja in 2021, Justice Taiwo Taiwo ruled that the Constitution of Nigeria, which is the grundnorm, does not require anyone to even present a first-degree certificate or any other certificate, including the NYSC certificate to be appointed a Minister in Nigeria.

“I decided to participate in the current NYSC programme in fulfillment of my own personal commitment and out of sense of duty which I am proud of.

“I will continue to serve my country using every opportunity and platform. My current NYSC status which will end in another 4 months will not in anyway impede the discharge of my duties as Minister of Art, Culture and Creative Economy, which, on its own, is a higher call to national service.

“I use this medium to publicly restate my loyalty and rededicate myself to the service of Nigeria. I will continue to serve faithfully and with all my energy to deliver on the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu for a better, greater and more prosperous Nigeria.”

South-South Women Group Backs Akpabio, Dismisses Frank, NDWL Group, As Idle Talkers, Worthless Wimps

Akinwale Kasali

August 27, 2023

By Akinwale Kasali

A Niger Delta Women Group under the aegis of South South Women Vanguard, SSWV, has criticized calls for the resignation of Senate President, Godswill Obot Akpabio, saying those making those calls are bunch of worthless wimps.

The Group slammed the Niger Delta Women League, NDWL, former Deputy National Spokesman of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Timi Frank and other critics of the Senate President as idle talkers, who are bent on tarnishing the image of the former Akwa Ibom State Governor.

In a Statement by the Group signed by one of its leaders, Margaret Ani, it stated, “We must speak out for reason and balance, anyone taking a thoroughly objective look at the views of the Niger Delta Women League, NDWL, has to be dismayed and shocked. All sense of logic and balance has been lost’’.

The statement was issued in Port Harcourt, Rivers State Capital, as the SSWV applauded Akpabio for working towards the common good of the country, putting Nigeria in the right perspective and placing the interests of Nigeria ahead of his own.

‘’Senate President Godswill Akpabio is dedicated, honest and devoutly religious. He understands the country’s problems, has a good grasp of what needs to be done to resolve them and is working to make the necessary changes. Nigerians are turning to him to solve their problems’’.

The women hailed Akpabio for his morals, values and respect for Nigerians, particularly his colleagues.

‘’Desire for perverted materialism and government hand-outs are the two things motivating some traitorous individuals and groups in the country’’ the statement said.

Ani underscored strong leadership, Akpabio’s hatred for greed and corruption.

The Group further described calls for Akpabio’s resignation as foolish and lacking in logic.

‘’Senator Godswill Akpabio is the epitome of success and a stumbling block to the plans of self-interest groups’’ the statement added.

Stop Congratulating Me – Wike

Akinwale Kasali

August 27, 2023

By Akinwale Kasali

Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, has warned well- wishers, associates and friends against placing congratulatory messages in his honour on Billboards and Advertorials in Media Houses.

Wike made this request through Anthony Ogunleye, Director of Press to the Office of the Minister, in a statement in Abuja on Sunday.

He said, “The attention of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has been drawn to lamp post billboards, full-scale billboards, and other adverts congratulating him on his appointment as Minister.

“While the Minister deeply appreciates the warm wishes and support of the citizens, he kindly, but strongly requests that such billboards and advertisements be discontinued forthwith.

“The Minister acknowledges the overwhelming goodwill from the residents of the FCT and beyond, understands the sentiment behind these congratulatory displays and is genuinely touched by the show of support.

“However, in the spirit of public service and commitment to his responsibilities, the Minister wishes to focus his full attention on assisting President Bola Tinubu in realising his vision and renewed hope agenda for Nigeria,” he said.

Ogunleye stated that Wike’s priority and foremost duty lies in contributing to the development and growth of the FCT and the well-being of residents and the nation as a whole.

He added that the Minister held in high regard, the aspirations and expectations of the FCT residents, and he remained dedicated to fulfilling his role with utmost sincerity and dedication.

According to him, this can be achieved by concentrating all efforts on the task at hand and joining hands with public servants to serve the country to the best of their abilities.

“Wike sincerely hopes that the public will understand his perspective and continue to extend their support and cooperation.

“He looks forward to working hand in hand with all stakeholders to build a stronger, more prosperous, and united FCT and Nigeria,” the Director said.

Atiku Tackles President Tinubu, Challenge Him To Tell Nigerians How He Got Degree With Primary, Secondary Education

Akinwale Kasali

August 27, 2023

By Akinwale Kasali

Atiku Abubakar, Presidential Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, at the 2023 Presidential Election, has challenged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to tell Nigerians how he got a University degree from High Institution without Primary and Secondary School education.

The former Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria took a swipe on President Tinubu by querying his Primary and Secondary School education on his X (formerly Twitter) verified account on Sunday.

Atiku alleged that when President Tinubu was Governor in 1999, he claimed to have attended St. John’s Primary School in Aroloya, Lagos State before proceeding to Children’s Home School in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.

He added his (Tinubu) next port of call in his educational journey was the Government College Ibadan and the Richard Daley College after which he proceeded to Chicago State University in the United States of America.

“ I woke up this morning wondering how we got to this cul de sac. In 1999, Tinubu claimed he attended St. John’s Primary School, Aroloya, Lagos, before proceeding to Children’s Home School in Ibadan.

“According to him, his next port of call in his educational journey was Government College Ibadan and, Richard Daley College and Chicago State University in the United States.

“Curiously, in 2023, Tinubu settled with attending only Chicago State University in the United States,” he tweeted.

Atiku urged Nigerians to query Tinubu’s declaration of no primary and secondary education yet has a university degree.

“I am scratching my head. How is that possible? Methinks that all well-meaning Nigerians should be as confused as I am with Tinubu’s declaration that he had no primary and secondary education, yet he has a university degree.

“You may wish to #AskTinubu how he attained this feat so that we can learn from his ingenuity.”

It would be recalled that Atiku had recently filed a separate case No. 23-5099 (N. D. III.) at the US District Court for the Northern District of Illinois against Tinubu in the United States.

This is different from the suit requesting the academic records of Tinubu which read that he holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from the Chicago State University.

However, a number of Nigerians say they are tired of these allegations against Tinubu, and just want to move on.

Said an elderly retired teacher who identified himself as John: “I am tired of the noise over paper qualifications. We have been dealing with the Tinubu educational qualifications since 1999. It is time to move on. All we want is service delivery. He should be left to do that. What if Tinubu was home-tutored? There is nothing wrong with that.”

Osun 32nd Anniversary: Gov Adeleke Sues For Unity, Says It’s Panacea For Development

Ayodele Oni

August 27, 2023

By Ayodele Oni

Osun state Governor, Ademola Adeleke, on Sunday appealed to indigenes of the State to team up and propel the State to economic prosperity.

Adeleke, made the call in a broadcast in Osogbo, to mark the 32nd anniversary of the creation of the state.

Osun was among nine States created on August 27th,1991and carved out from the old Oyo State by General Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida (rtd) with Osogbo as the capital.

In the broadcast, the Governor declared that “As we reflect upon the journey, let us acknowledge what shaped our state and chart a course for a brighter and more prosperous future.

“Our State’s creation was the outcome of the struggles of our people. The founding fathers worked hard to realize the vision. The struggle started as early as 1950s with a series of commissions of inquiry in the old Oyo State.

“The doggedness of the founding fathers was rewarded on august 27th 1991, when General Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida created nine states including Osun state with Osogbo as the capital.

“This marked the recognition of our unique cultural heritage, rich history. The creation of Osun State was a testament to our collective determination to achieve self-governance and development

“Over the past three decades, Osun State has demonstrated its strength in various fields. Osun has been growing from strength to strength.

“We have achieved a lot under our five-point agenda on workers welfare, gratuities and pension; education, affordable health care, state and social security and human capital development has yielded a skilled workforce that contributes significantly to the growth of our state and the nation.

“We are building a digital ecosystem that deploys technology for development. We are laying a strong foundation for tech driven industrial development.

“We seek to harness our huge academic potentials for state growth. We are working hard to upgrade our infrastructure. Our focus includes growing the state economy to generate jobs and build the commonwealth.

“In our push to achieve dreams of our founding fathers, we recognize the challenges facing our state. We regard developmental setbacks as tools to resolution of societal problems. I don’t want to report problems but solutions to our common setbacks.

“My dear good citizen of Osun State, at this point this is a clarion call in order to propel Osun State towards sustained economic growth, we must collectively focus on several key strategies ranging from:

“Strengthening our transportation networks, energy systems, and digital connectivity will attract investment, facilitate trade, and improve the overall quality of life for our citizens.

“Continued emphasis on modernizing our agricultural practices, supporting farmers with training and access to markets, will enhance food security and drive economic growth.

“Nurturing a culture of learning and innovation through improved educational facilities and partnerships with research institutions will fuel the emergence of a knowledge-based economy.

“Leveraging our cultural heritage and natural beauty, we can develop sustainable tourism offerings that create jobs and stimulate local economies.

“Providing financial incentives, technical assistance, and access to markets for SMEs will foster entrepreneurship and diversify our economic base.

“Implementing eco-friendly policies and sustainable practices will not only protect our environment but also attract eco-conscious industries.

“Collaborating with the private sector to develop infrastructure projects, such as energy, transportation, and healthcare, can leverage resources and expertise for mutual benefit.”

NDLEA Nabs 84 Suspects, Seizes Illicit Drugs

Akinwale Kasali

August 27, 2023

By Akinwale Kasali

Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, Kaduna State Command, have disclosed that it arrested 84 suspects and seized 451.976kg of illicit drugs in Kaduna State.

Ibrahim Braji, NDLEA Commander in Kaduna said the arrest and seizures were made between July and August.

Braji said within the period under review, the Command secured six convictions of suspects.

The Commander said the various drugs seized included Indian Hemp, Cocaine, Methamphetamine, Tramadol and other Psychotropic substances.

“ Grand total weight of drug seized within the period under review is 451.976kg.

The Commander, also, disclosed that its Operatives also recovered 90 rounds of live ammunition; Live bullets of 7.62mm calibres and a new Jojef pump action gun with registration number 23-0174.

“Within the month under review, 18 illicit drug joints have been dismantled across the state which included Kantin Agah, Hayin Dan-mani, Mando, Anguwan Dosa, Mararabar Rido, Tukur-Tukur and Sabon Gari.

Others are Palladan, Unguwar Doki, Mekera, Rigasa, Dan Daura, Karji, Ghana road, Television, Unguwar Ma’azu, Kudenden and Jushi.

Braji appealed to parents to watch over their children and know the kind of friends they associated with at all times.

He warned illegal drug dealers to look for better livelihood, adding that if they refused, the agency would go after them and ensure they faced the full wrath of the law.

Removal Of Federal Colleges Of Agriculture From TETFUND Stalls Development – Provost

Ayodele Oni

August 27, 2023

By Ayodele Oni

After about 70 years of its establishment, the Federal College of Agriculture, Akure, (FECA) Ondo state, is still battling with threats from land owners and grabbers.

To this end, the Provost of the College, Dr. Akinyemi Fadiyimu, has cried out over continuous attacks and harassment of students and staff of the institution by those still laying claim to ownership of land on which the college is located.

Apart from physical attacks, Dr. Fadiyimu said the people are in court and that three quarters of the institution’s land would be gone if the court ruled in their favour.

According to him, five different litigations are currently filed by aggrieved individuals that are laying claim to ownership of college’s land.

The Provost, who disclosed this to leadership of media correspondents in Akure during a visit, stated that the security threat faced by students due to attacks by land grabbers was causing distraction for the institution.

Besides attack by land grabbers, Dr. Fadiyimu said removal of Colleges of Agriculture from benefitting from Tertiary Education Fund (TETFUND) caused ‘serious infrastructural deficit in the institution.’

“Our greatest threat here is the issue of land grabbing. Land grabbers want to forcefully encroach on our land. We are facing five litigations from people who are trying to lay claim to this college. On several fronts, different persons are laying claim to our land. The issues are so serious.

“If per chance we should loose those cases, the land available to this college will be reduced by three quarter. Only one quarter will be left for us to operate.

“They come in all the time to attack our staff and students. It is a lot of security risk for staff and students.

“The location of the college is attractive to land speculators. They should leave us alone to develop and be able to serve the society.”

He also revealed that the College has not been receiving the needed patronage from both the state or the federal government.

“There are a lot of developmental project lacking in the institution. There is dearth of infrastructure. The federal government has been shortchanging us since 2010.

“We (college of Agriculture) were removed from benefitting from TETFUND. In 2010 all Colleges of Agriculture were exempted but state universities are benefiting from it. State governments are not establishing College of Agriculture because they will not have access to TETFUND.

“We are talking about food security, agricultural development. Our graduate are able to ensure we achieve technological advancement. We are critical stakeholders in agricultural development in this country.”

PSC Fully Takes Charge Of Recruitment Into Nigeria Police, Sets Up Board

Ayodele Oni

August 27, 2023

By Ayodele Oni

At last, the Nigeria Police Force, (NPF) has a Board strictly saddled with responsibility of recruiting personnel into the Force. The Police Service Commission (PSC), has just announced the setting up of the Recruitment Board.

The Board, which is made up of relevant stakeholders as announced by PSC Chairman, Solomon Arase, would be inaugurated in due cause.

It will be responsible for screening and ensuring that only able and qualified members of the public are recruited into the Nigeria Police Force reflecting the principle of Federal Character.

PSC’s move is in compliance with the judgement of the Supreme Court on July 11, 2023, which laid to rest the contentious issue and controversy between the Police Service Commission and the Nigeria Police Force, as to whose duty it was to recruit constables for the Nigeria Police.

The Supreme Court in the judgment, unequivocally held that the Police Service Commission remains the agency statutorily mandated to do so.

In a statement on Sunday, the Chairman of the PSC, Dr Arase, explained that the imperativeness of peace, harmony and cordiality between the two institutions cannot be over-emphasized.

He pointed out that contemporary security provision has become more tasking than ever

Arase, in the statement signed by Ikechukwu Ani, Head of Press and Public Relations of PSC, stated that there are more demands than ever before for a robust policy guideline from the Commission.

He added that “the Nigeria Police Force must be repositioned for greater efficiency and effectiveness in not only meeting up with the myriad of security challenges confronting the country but, also birthing a responsive, responsible and accountable police for the nation.

“Peace is essential for growth and success of any institution in delivering on its mandate, and it is hoped that the Commission and NPF will continue to build and consolidate on the emerging trust, confidence and mutual respect.

“This will aggregate to foster and entrench a culture of love and symbiotic relationship between the two agencies, towards the attainment of our statutory mandates, for a greater, safer, prosperous and more secure Nigeria.

“Prior to the judgment, efforts were already in process and at advanced stage towards amicable resolution of the issue between the two critical institutions.

“It is highly embarrassing to Government, and indeed other stakeholders for the duo, which ought to work in harmony and mutuality to have engaged in such avoidable legal disputation over an issue that sought understanding, respect and compromise.”

Arase stressed that chairman of the PSC noted that before the Supreme Court judgement, the unnecessary imbroglio impacted negatively on the Staff of the Commission and officers and other ranks of the Nigeria Police Force.

He further said that the judgment simply and legally cements the resolution of the issue in a win-win situation for the Police Service Commission and the Nigeria Police Force which ordinarily cannot effectively function, and deliver on its respective mandates without the cooperation of each other.

The chairman of the PSC therefore said that it must be said and seen, that the judgment was delivered for the overall best interest of national security, and goes to underscore the imperative need for harmonious working relationship and mutual trust amongst agencies of Government.

“Consequently, it is important that all concerned de-escalate and eschew all forms of hostilities, misconceptions, preconceptions and prejudices against each other which were at the base of the hitherto characterizing of a no love lost relationship between the Commission and the NPF.”

Se€ual Harassment: Another Law Lecturer Falls

The Source

August 27, 2023

By Charles Igbo

Another Law Lecturer has fallen over allegations of se€ual harassment of female students. The Lecturer who fell on the wayside, this time, is Mr Adam Ezeaku of the Faculty of Law, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka.

Ezeaku’s fall came fast on the heels of the fall of the Dean of the Faculty of Law, University of Calabar, Professor Cyril Ndifon.

Ndifon was suspended, and is facing an investigation after the unprecedented public protest by female Law students of UNICAL against his alleged constant se€ual harassment of the girls. Carrying placards, the female students, backed by their male counterparts, marched to the Vice Chancellor’s office to ask for the sack of the Dean. He has since been suspended after his unsatisfactory answer to a query, and is now undergoing investigation.

Soon after Ndifon’s scandal, the news broke that students of UNIZIK have followed in the foot steps of their UNICAL counterparts.

The difference: they accused their Vice Chancellor, Professor Charles Esimone, of sitting on the report of a Panel headed by Professor Obi Ogujiefor to investigate allegations of se€ual harassment against some lectures.

But in a press release, Dr Emmanuel Ojukwu, Special Adviser to the Vice Chancellor on Public Relations and Special Duties, said there was no protest by the students over se€ual harassment. He also said it was not true that the Vice Chancellor had taken no action over the allegations, the indictment of Ezeaku, and the students’ concerns.

His words: “It is important to state that there was no protest of any sort in the university.

“However, there is an ongoing investigation concerning alleged se€ual harassment by some lecturers.

“The Vice Chancellor immediately removed the affected lecturers from their official positions and issued those affected strong warning letters in the affected departments.”

He, however said the problem was that the students who made the allegations were not forthcoming in appearing before the investigation panel to give evidence.

He disclosed that the Vice Chancellor had summoned a meeting of all the affected departments where he expressed the university’s embarrassment, and read the riot act to staff over unwholesome behaviours, especially, se€ual harassments of students.

Ojukwu, also, disclosed that the Vice Chancellor has made available a dedicated telephone number for students to “report all forms of harassment by staff especially se€ual harassment.”

The Vice Chancellor, Ojukwu said, “further assured students of the renewed determination of the university to protect them and treat all forms of allegations of se€ual harassment with the seriousness it deserves and confidentially.”

Se€ual harassment of female students by Lectures has, in recent times, become a big problem in Universities in Nigeria.

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