Stop Giving Suspects Poison To Test Their Innocence Or Guilt – Police

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September 22, 2025

By Charles Igbo

The Anambra State Police Command has warned that it would deal decisively with those who use painful unorthodox ways to prove a suspect’s innocence or otherwise.

In a statement released on September 22, signed by its Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the Command said that while it respects cultural and traditional values, it stands, strongly, against forcing a suspect to undergo painful and dangerous tests to prove innocence or guilt.

Such practices, the Command said, include forcing suspects to drink poison, dip their hands in boiling water, hold dangerous objects or undergo other violent acts to “test survival”.

The full text of the statement reads:

ANAMBRA SECURITY ADVISORY: IGNORANCE OF THE LAW IS NOT AN EXCUSE AND TRIAL BY ORDEAL REMAINS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE

“The Anambra State Police Command wishes to remind members of the public, especially Ndi Anambra that ignorance of the law is not an excuse to evade justice.

“While the Command respects cultural values and traditional beliefs, it strongly warns against engaging in unlawful practices, particularly trial by ordeal. This practice, which forces an accused person to undergo painful or dangerous tests to “prove” innocence or guilt, is illegal, inhuman, criminal, and punishable under Nigerian Law.

“Section 207 of the Criminal Code Act, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, expressly prohibits trial by ordeal. It provides that any person who directs, takes part in, or submits another person to trial by ordeal is guilty of a felony and liable to imprisonment.

“Consequently, the Police Command emphasizes that justice must be sought and obtained only through legal courts of competent jurisdiction, not through harmful traditional practices such as forcing a suspect to drink poison or harmful substances, making someone dip their hand in boiling water, holding dangerous objects, or undergoing other violent acts to “test” survival.

“Anyone found participating in, or subjecting others to trial by ordeal, will face the full weight of the Law.

“The Command, therefore, urges residents to report such unlawful acts to the nearest police station or through the Command’s Control Number: 07039194332 or the PRO 08039334002, as the safety, dignity, and rights of every citizen remains a top priority.

“The Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, CP Ikioye Orutugu fwc MNIPS PhD, further assures Ndi Anambra that the Command will continue to enforce the Law without fear or favour and will not tolerate any acts capable of undermining the safety and security of the State.”

This medium gathers that a number of people, including the innocent, have either lost their lives, or permanently incapacitated through such crude cultural “methods of proof”.

Fubara Says He Needs Prayers To Fulfil His Mandate

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James Orji

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September 22, 2025

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Reinstated Governor of Rivers state Siminalayi Fubara has called on the people of the state and the church to continue to pray for his administration, saying he needs their divine intervention to be able to deliver on his mandate as the chief executive of the oil rich state.

The governor spoke barely a week after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu lifted his suspension and other democratic structures in the state, including the Deputy Governor, and thee state house of Assembly.

Tinubu ended the Emergency Rule on September 18 saying there was no need to extend it because peace and stability has finally returned to once restive state.

Governor Fubara assumed office last Friday, two days after the suspension was lifted, including two days after the State Assembly conducted its first plenary.

Speaking on Sunday during a church service to mark his return to office, at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Opobo Town, headquarters of Opobo/Nkoro Local Government Area of the state, Fubara said the prayers rendered by the church and his people kept him going during his trying time.

The governor spoke in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary , Nelson Chukwudi said God answered the prayers rendered by the people of the state by ensuring that he returned to office after his suspension.

Fubara: “I am here together with my wife this first Sunday after the suspension of the state of emergency. We cannot thank God enough as a family. Our being here is private; we came simply to worship in our home church. When my story ends, this church will lead me to my next journey.

“So, it is important that I come here to say thank you quietly before the Almighty God for what He has done, what He is doing, and what He will continue to do, not just for me and my family, but for this state and Nigeria.

The magazine reported that President Tinubu directed Governor Fubara, his Deputy and members of the state House of Assembly to return office, bring to end the six months Emergency Rule.

The Sources magazine also reported that Governor Fubara has promised to work amicably with the Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, who many believed was instrumental to the Emergency Rule imposed by the president on the state on march 18, 2025.

Wike, we recall helped Fubara to become governor but not long after, they fell apart, resulting in bloody clashes among their supporters, which President Tinubu said forced him to declared the Emergency Rule six months ago.

Ibas To Rivers Assembly: Probing Me Is A “Fool’s Errand”

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James Orji

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September 22, 2025

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Vice Admiral Ibok- Ete Ibas - Rivers Sole Administrator

Ibas Ibok-Ete, who left last week as Rivers state Administrator, has dismissed the ongoing probe of his six months administration by the Rivers state House of Assembly. The retired Naval officer said the effort by the state lawmakers will end in futility, as doing so will mean probing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the National Assembly.

The retired military office spoke on Sunday barely one week after the Assembly disclosed its plan to investigate his tenure as the state Administrator.

Ibas departed his position on September 17, 2025 after President Tinubu lifted the suspension on Governor Siminalaye Fubara, his Deputy and the state lawmakers, making the end of Emergency Rule in the oil rich state.

Reacting to his probe by the Assembly, the Senior Special Adviser on Media, to the former Administrator Hector Igbikiowubu, said yesterday that there’s nothing to probe, and that the lawmakers are chasing shadows by trying to investigate how he managed the funds the state received from the Federation Account following his appointment by the president.

The administration, according to checks received over N254 billion from the Federation Account Allocation Committee between March and August 2025, figures from FAAC and National Bureau of Statistics indicate.

He, however, described the lawmakers’ resolve as commentary, adding that the attempt to probe the former administrator was tantamount to probing the President, who appointed him, as well as the National Assembly, which supervised the activities of Ibas as the state administrator, as he then was.

Igbikiowubu, however wished the lawmakers well in their endeavors describing the ongoing exercise as “a fool’s errand.”

He said, “When you say they were going to probe the tenure of the administrator, was it the Assembly that appointed the administrator?

“You see, the point to note is that commentary is free. You can’t stop people from running commentary. The House of Assembly has been on break for a very long time, and you will appreciate that they have not been able to discharge their functions for such a long time,” Igbikiowubu told The PUNCH.

“Now that they have resumed, they have to make an effort to carry out their functions. So, it will seem their right to probe what has gone wrong in the state. Nobody can stop the lawmakers from carrying out a probe of what they perceive to be their functions within the state.

“But like I asked earlier, were they the ones that appointed the administrator? So, if you didn’t appoint the administrator, it goes to reason that you have certain limitations. When you also realise that the administrator was appointed by the President, it goes without reason that the administrator acted for and on behalf of the President.”

He added, “When you also reason that the administrator was supervised by the National Assembly, it goes without reason that when you decide to probe the administrator, you’re invariably saying that you will be probing the administrator and the National Assembly.

“So, I wish them good luck with their plan and their probe. But you and I know that such an enterprise amounts to a fool’s errand.”

Speaker, Martin Amaewhule, had during its first plenary session last week passed a resolution stating its readiness to investigate the state expenditure during the six months of emergency rule under Ibas.

This is to “To explore the process of knowing what transpired during the emergency rule with regard to spending from the consolidated revenue fund for the award of contracts and other expenditure,” the Speaker said.

Police Nab Serial Armed Robber Who In Broad Daylight Stole Gold Worth N40m, Shot Owner

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Akinwale Kasali

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September 21, 2025

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By Akinwale Kasali

The Lagos State Police Command recorded a significant breakthrough as its operatives nabbed notorious armed robber and assassin, John Samuel, who have been terrorising the State.

The 28-year-old Akwa Ibom State-born suspect was apprehended in his hideout at Epe, Lagos, having shot and wounded a businessman, Gbenga Obama, and robbed him of an expensive gold necklace and other valuables in broad daylight at Gbajobi Street, Allen Avenue, Ikeja.

The notorious armed robber was recently released after a seven year spell from prison for violent armed robbery.

His arrest was confirmed by the Command’s Deputy Public Relations Officer, DSP Babaseyi Oluseyi, who described Samuel, as an ex-convict, “vicious and notorious for armed robbery, assassination, and murder of some of his victims.

In a statement the State Police Command said “He was released recently after serving a six-year jail term for armed robbery. After his release from prison, he returned to crime and criminality with even more viciousness.

“He is notorious for shooting at victims before dispossessing them of their valuables.”

DSP Oluseyi disclosed that the Close Circuit Television (CCTV) footage of the robbery incident during which he shot and wounded Obama, obtained by the Police, clearly captured the suspect when he fired at the victim with English pistol before he dispossessed him of his gold necklace jewelry while his accomplice waited on a motorcycle for their escape.

The victim, who sustained serious gunshot wounds during the attack, has since been treated and discharged, Oluseyi said.

During interrogation, the suspect reportedly confessed to selling the stolen jewelry for four million Naira, far below its actual value.

“The Lagos State Police Command is currently intensifying efforts to arrest other members of his gang and bring them to justice.

“They will all be prosecuted on completion of investigation,” the deputy spokesperson added.

Commending the operatives for their gallantry and commitment that led to the successful arrest of the suspect, the Commissioner of Police, CP Moshood Jimoh, assured Lagosians that discreet investigation into the case is ongoing.

He reiterated the Command’s commitment to safety and protection of all residents, urging them to go about their lawful activities in peace without fear or apprehension.

The CP warned criminally-minded persons, saying that Lagos has no hiding place for them, as they will be fished out with the long arms of the law catching up with them.

Conference 57 Mourn Badagry LCDA Vice Chairman, Princess Nutayi

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Akinwale Kasali

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September 21, 2025

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By Akinwale Kasali

Sesan Olowa, Chairman of Conference 57, an umbrella body of 20 Local Government Area and 37 Local Council Development Area, LCDA, in Lagos State, has lamented the passing of the Vice Chairman of Badagry West Local Council Development Area, LCDA, Lagos State, Princess Oluremi Nutayi Ajose.

The Late Princess Nutayi was sworn in two months ago into office on July 27, 2025, alongside the LCDA Chairman, Hon. Rauf Ibrahim Kayode Yemaren, and five Councilors by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu in Lagos.

The late Princess was the daughter of His Royal Majesty, Oba Oyekan Possi Ajose, the Alapa of Apa Egun-Awori Kingdom, further deepening the grief within the Royal household and across the community

Her death is coming weeks after Oluwakemi Rufai, Councillor for Ward C1 in Ibeju-Lekki Local Government Area, also died on August 13, barely two weeks after being sworn into office.

The cause of death is yet not made public.

Police Cracks Down On Killers Of Three Officers In Benue State

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Suleiman Anyalewechi

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September 21, 2025

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Kayode Egbetokun - Inspector General of Police - IGP

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Nigeria Police Force on Sunday September 21, 2025, confirmed the arrest of six suspects in connection with the deadly attack on the personnel of the Tactical Teams in Benue State.

The attacks, believed to have been carried out on Friday September 19, on Agu Centre, Katsina-Alu/Ukum Local Council of Benue state, by suspected killer herdsmen, culminated in the death of no fewer than three police officers. Seven others are reportedly missing.

A statement from the Force Public Relations Officer FPRO, Benjamin Hundeyin, described the action of the attackers as “cruel, unwarranted, and an affront on the good people of Benue state.

The Inspector General of Police, IGP, according to the statement, has directed the immediate deployment of additional tactical assets, including operatives to facilitate the speedy arrest of those involved in the dastardly act.

Hundeyin informed that the Benue State Commissioner of Police, CP Innocent Ifeanyi Emenari, is presently leading the coordinated campaign to rescue the missing Police Officers, as well as bring to justice the perpetrators of the heinous crime.

Meanwhile, the police spokesperson stated that the arrested suspects are currently in custody, assisting with useful information that can aid investigations.

This is as CP Emenari assured that no efforts will be spared in restoring peace and stability to the beleaguered parts of Benue state which has, of recent, been ravaged by an orgy of violent attacks and killings.

Consequently, the Police urges members of the general public to always volunteer credible intelligence that could lead to the tracking down of the remaining fleeing suspects, and dismantling of the criminal networks that have held the people hostage.

Enugu Places N10 Million On The Heads Of Rev Fr Eya’s Killers

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Suleiman Anyalewechi

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September 21, 2025

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By Suleiman Anyalewechi

Piqued by the gruesome killing of a Catholic Priest, Rev Fr Mathew Eya ,and the widespread outrage provoked by the dastardly act, the Enugu State Government late on Saturday September 20, 2025, vowed to explore all available options in bringing to justice perpetrators of the heinous crime.

This is as it has pledged a reward of N10 million for any information that could lead to the arrest and prosecution of those behind the unfortunate incident.

The Source reports that Rev Fr Eya of St Charles Catholic Parish in Eha-Ndiagu, Eha-Alumonah, was, on Friday evening, September 19, intercepted and killed by gunmen while he on his way home from an engagement in Enugu metropolis.

The assailants who operated on a motorcycle, reportedly seized,and killed the Catholic Cleric ,very close to an ongoing healthcare delivery project in the area.

A witness informed that Fr Eya was driving alone in the vehicle as at the time he was seized, shot and killed by the hoodlums at a close range.

“They shot at his tyres, thereby forcing his vehicle to stop . Then, they approached and shot him severally at a close range .

” From the way the gunmen operated , it does not look like a case of abduction, even though some people people are thinking along that line”, a witness volunteered.

But not a few have associated the heinous crime to a well orchestrated assassination plot .

However in a statement from the Commissioner for Information and Communication, Dr Malachy Agbo, the Enugu state Government, while condemning the killing as cowardly and unacceptable informed that it will reward anyone with useful information that will lead to the arrest of those involved in the incident with the sum of N10 million.

While commiserating with the Catholic family both in Nsukka local council and the entire Enugu State, the State Government vowed that no efforts will be spared in tracking down those behind the dastardly act.

Reaffirming its unwavering commitment towards ensuring adequate protection of lives and properties of residents, the Government promised to deploy all available resources, including technology and its wide intelligence network to hunt down the perpetrators.

DHQ Probes Explosion At DICON Which Killed One, Injured Many

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Ayodele Oni

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September 21, 2025

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By Ayodele Oni

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has commenced an investigation into the explosion which occurred at the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON), Kaduna.

The DHQ, confirmed that the incident occurred on Saturday morning at the DICON facility in Kaduna, leaving one person dead and others injured.

A statement issued by the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, explained that the explosion occurred during the destruction of expired materials, including Ammonia Nitrates, Primer Caps, and other hazardous substances.

“The unfortunate incident claimed one life, while several personnel sustained injuries and are currently receiving treatment at the 44 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital, Kaduna,” Gusau stated.

The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, has condoled with the family of the deceased and prayed for the quick recovery of those injured.

While assuring that the public has nothing to fear, the Defence Headquarters reaffirmed that DICON maintains safety standards in its operations.

Why Ondo 2025 Budget Did Not Perform – Gov Aiyedatiwa

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Ayodele Oni

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September 21, 2025

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By Ayodele Oni

Nine months into the year, Ondo State Government has observed that the 2025 budget of the State has not achieved its objectives.

To this end, the State Government has expressed readiness to streamline and prepare realistic budget for the 2026 fiscal year, in a bid to align its financial plans with available and accessible funding sources.

Disclosing this at the consultative meeting with stakeholders on the 2026-2028 medium term Expenditure framework (MTEF) and 2026 budget organised by the state Ministry of Economic Planning and Budget, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa said the state was focusing on hinging its budget on funds the state is sure of accessing.

Governor Aiyedatiwa attributed non performance to poor budgeting, as a result of non-payment by foreign development funding organizations for implementation of the 2025 budget.

It would be recalled that the state’s 2025 annual budget was (Grand Total) N:698,659,496,000. The Capital Expenditure was N433,622,000, which was 63.07 percent of the total budget, while the Recurrent Expenditure was N222,168,420,000.

In his address, the governor, who was represented by the state Commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget, Mr. ‘Laolu Akindolire, explained that the state government would be looking at preparing a sizable budget that is within the financial strength of the state.

He disclosed that the state would no longer hing the funding of its budget on development funding which he explained are too cumbersome to access.

The governor said: “When we looked at the 2025 capital budget, it’s just too unrealistic. A capital budget of N433 billion, how do you fund it?

“This is what brought about the need to prepare a more realistic budget that would be well funded. Such that we would be able to perform about 70 to 80 percent.

“It’s not the size of a budget that matters, it’s the ability to fund it and to perform to meet the aspirations of our people. When we put the figures together, we want to see what we can actually get. That’s what we are relying on for the preparation of the 2026 budget.

“The procedure of obtaining funding from most international development organizations is very clumsy. Most of the time, the money does not come. And when we have prepared the budget with it, it leads to poor funding and ends in poor budgeting performance.

“Now we want to look at those that we are really sure of getting in the course of the year. If additional comes, it’s okay.”

Reeling out some items on the proposal for 2026, the Administrative Secretary of the Ministry, Stephen Aworere disclosed that the 2026 budget was designed in line with World Bank advisory -global market and how it will impact on Nigeria’s economy in 2026.

25 Terrorists Killed In Yobe, Borno By NAF Airstrikes

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Akinwale Kasali

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September 21, 2025

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By Akinwale Kasali

The Nigerian Airforce recorded a significant breakthrough in a coordinated night air operation at Bula in Yobe and Banki axis of Borno. 25 Terrorists were killed

The significant achievement was contained in a statement released by the Director, Public Relations and Information, NAF, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, on Saturday in Abuja.

Ejodame said the operations were conducted on September 18 following intelligence from ground troops.

He said a force package of Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) assess and strike aircraft tracked the movement of terrorist and identified multiple groups North of Banki.

He stated that the real-time updates were relayed to ground forces and base operations, enabling synchronised action.

“The strike aircraft engaged the terrorists in three successive precision strikes on their movement routes and assembly areas, effectively neutralising more than 25 fighters.

“Post-strike surveillance confirmed ground forces remained in defensive positions, with no further threats observed”, he said.

Ejodame said the operation underscored NAF’s decisive support to ground troops, denial of terrorist freedom of action, and unwavering commitment to securing Nigeria’s North-East.

It would be recalled that on September 8, Boko Haram terrorists attacked the Darajamal community in Bama LGA, Borno State, and killed at least 63 people, including five soldiers.

The terrorists stormed the community on motorcycles, firing at residents and burning houses and vehicles before military reinforcement arrived. Governor Babagana Zulum described the incident as “very sad” and confirmed the casualty figures.