How INEC Declared Prisoner Winner Of Enugu Re-run Election

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August 20, 2025

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

An Inmate of the Nigerian Custodial Centre, Bright Ngene, of the Labour Party, LP has been curiously declared the winner of the much controversial and seemingly problematic re-run polls for the Enugu South state Constituency .

The re-run election held by the Independent National Electoral Commission INEC in the troubled Constituency last Saturday August 16, was the fourth attempt since 2023 .

However, the August 16 exercise which also ran into a storm saw the INEC declaring Ngene, who is presently serving a 7-year jail sentence, the winner after initially designating the election as inconclusive.

Sam Olumekun, the INEC Commissioner for Voter Education in a statement on Tuesday declared Ngene the winner, having polled the highest number of votes to defeat his closet rival from the Peoples Democratic party PDP.

“Two re-run elections by order of the Election Appeal Tribunal were held in Enugu and Kano states .

“After previous disruptions of the elections in the two states by violence and thuggery, the exercise have now been concluded

“For the Enugu South 1 State Constituency of Enugu State, Ngene Bright Emeka of the Labour Party, LP, was declared the winner” Olumekun stated.

“Certificate of Return would be presented to the successful candidates August 21 and 22 ,2025 in Abuja and state offices respectively” Olumekun stated

The Source reports that Ngene was, in July ,2024, convicted and sentenced while still battling to reclaim his mandate

He was said to have been convicted and sentenced to seven years jail term by an Enugu South Magistrate Court in connection with the communal crisis that engulfed Akwuke Community over the missing of N15 million public funds.

The case which was said to have been, during its initial stage in 2017, referred for Alternative Dispute Resolution, was however revived in what many have seen as a politically motivated move, after the 2023 general elections in which Ngene emerged victorious.

Ngene whose victory in 2023 was nullified by the Tribunal in September 2023, has been facing many judicial and political battles to reclaim his mandate.

Last Saturday’s exercise was the third in the series of court-ordered re-run with Ngene consistently emerging victorious, even now in jail .

Withheld LG Allocation: Adeleke Family Pays Osun LG Workers Salaries

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Ayodele Oni

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August 20, 2025

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Ademola Adeleke - Osun State Governor — Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State.

By Ayodele Oni

For almost six months, salaries of local government staff in Osun state, withheld by the federal government have become the responsibility of the immediate family of Governor Ademola Adeleke.

A Chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Bode George, who revealed this, said music star, David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, his father, Dr. Deji Adeleke; and Governor Ademola Adeleke have been paying the workers.

George made the revelation in an interview with Nigeria Info FM where he also shed more light on the news surrounding Adeleke’s initial defection from the PDP to the All Progressives Congress (APC), the ruling party at the centre and in most states of the federation.

According to him, the Federal Government has withheld the state’s allowances for about six months, forcing the Adeleke family to shoulder the responsibility.

The host of the programme, Jimi Disu, had asked George, a former Military Administrator of Ondo State: “What is happening with Governor Adeleke? Is he going to the APC or not?”

In his response, George, a retired Naval Commodore, drew parallels between the situation of the state and the reason behind the “now cancelled” defection plan of Adeleke from the PDP to the APC.

He said: “I had had an in-depth discussion with him and the first time we spoke, he informed me that he would be leaving the party. I was shell-shocked and I said to him: ‘Your Excellency, think very carefully and deeply.’

“His state has not been paid their local government allowances from the Federation Account.

“The Federal Government is owing Osun about N6 billion that he had to carry the burden between him, his older brother, and his nephew, Davido.”

George further stated that Governor Adeleke had decided to take up the burden of paying salaries so as not to disappoint those who believed in him enough to vote him into power.

“For the last five to six months, they have been funding the salaries from their personal pocket because the governor could not watch the workers going home at the end of the month without their salaries.

“The court has already ruled that the Federal Government should pay them the allocation but nobody has done that.

“So, I asked him to be careful and take lessons from how his older brother, the late Isiaka Adeleke, also a former governor of Osun State, was treated by the APC.

“If you get there with your people and they organise any primaries and end up announcing someone else as the winner, your political career is gone.”

George said after their discussion, he was shocked to see Adeleke at the last National Executive Committee meeting of the PDP in Abuja.

He said as soon as Adeleke saw him, he came to express gratitude to him for the advice he gave him, pledging his loyalty to the PDP.

Ransom Collection: Three Killed, Two Arrested, Victim Set Free

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Ayodele Oni

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August 20, 2025

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By Ayodele Oni

Operatives of the Ondo State Police Command and local hunters on Wednesday engaged some suspected kidnappers in gun fuel at a point they were to collect ransom.

The operation led to the rescue of a kidnapped victim, the neutralization of suspected kidnappers, the arrest of others, and the recovery of firearms.

Command’s spokesman, Olusola Ayanlade in a statement, explained that “On 20th August, 2025, at about 0800hrs, operatives of the Command attached to Ikare Division, led by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO), in collaboration with local forest hunters, embarked on a discreet operation following the abduction of one Tijani Aremu ‘m’, aged 60 years.

“Investigation revealed that the kidnappers had demanded ransom in millions of naira from the victim’s family, with an agreed location fixed for the exchange.

“Acting in cooperation with Police operatives and forest hunters, the family paved the way for an ambush to be strategically laid at the designated point of exchange.

“When the suspected kidnappers arrived to collect the proceeds of their crime, they were engaged in a fierce gun duel with the operatives.

“In the process, one of the kidnappers was neutralized and a single-barrel rifle recovered, while several others escaped with bullet injuries.

“The combined team immediately intensified a combing operation in the adjoining forests, which led to the recovery of two additional lifeless bodies of suspected kidnappers, bringing the total number neutralized to three.

“Furthermore, two suspects, namely Yahaya Isa ‘m’ (20 years) and Ismail Ismail ‘m’, were arrested in connection with the kidnapping.

“Sustained pressure during the operation eventually culminated in the safe rescue of the victim, Mr. Tijani Aremu, who was found unharmed. He was promptly taken to Hospital, for medical examination and is set to be reunited with his family.

“The Command highly commends the forest hunters for their courage, vigilance, and selfless collaboration, which greatly complemented the effort of the Police and contributed to the eventual rescue of the victim.

“This operation is a clear testament to what can be achieved when security agencies and community stakeholders work hand in hand.”

ASUU Urges Members Not To Obtain Loan Under TISSF

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Ayodele Oni

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August 20, 2025

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By Ayodele Oni

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has rejected the Tertiary Institutions Support Fund, (TISSF) loan scheme floated for universities by the federal government

The union urged the Federal Government to delist it from the Tertiary Institutions Staff Support Fund (TISSF) loan scheme and opted for fresh protests over unresolved demands.

In a communiqué issued after its National Executive Council (NEC) meeting, signed by its president, Christopher Piwuna, ASUU described its inclusion in the scheme as a ploy by the government to conscript it as a “guarantor of loans it knows nothing about.”

The communiqué stated, “NEC resolved to reject the ploy to conscript ASUU as ‘guarantor’ of loans the union knows nothing about and demands that ASUU be delisted from the process.”

The union insisted that the government should release the “withheld three and a half months’ salaries of its members,” rather than offer loans.

ASUU also resolved to embark on nationwide protests, accusing the government of being slow in addressing outstanding issues.

The communiqué noted that “NEC discussed the state of the struggle and the government’s slow pace in addressing the issues in contention.

“Consequently, NEC resolved to organise protests across all the branches simultaneously on a fixed date.”

The union’s outstanding demands include the renegotiation of the 2009 FGN-ASUU agreement, as well as issues related to funding, university autonomy, and academic freedom.

PSC Approves Promotion Of 952 ASPs TO DSPs, Rejects 179

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The Source

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August 20, 2025

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The Police Service Commission has approved the promotion of Nine hundred and fifty two (952) Assistant Superintendents of Police to the next rank of Deputy Superintendents.

The Commission also declined the promotion of 176 ASPs found to have retired from Service and another three suspected to have died.

The decisions were some of the highlights of the first Plenary Meeting of the 6th Board of the Commission held at the Corporate Headquarters of the Commission in Jabi Abuja.

According to a release signed by Ikechukwu Ani, Head, Press and Public Relations, PSC, dated August 20th, 2025, Chairman of the Commission, DIG Hashimu Argungu, rtd, congratulated the newly promoted Officers but warned that going forward, they must imbibe the spirit of nationalism and respect for the laws and regulations of the Police Service.

DIG Argungu noted that the Commission will no longer tolerate diversionary and unauthorised actions by serving Officers, especially when they have duly established channels to ventilate any grievance.

He assured them that the Commission will continue to ensure that their career progression are not hindered or trampled upon.

Some of the newly promoted Officers include; Maidawa Yakubu, Edwin Thomas, Chagga Yakubu, Sabo Hassan, Omini Dickson, Bassey Alobo, Enyinnaya Ejimadu, Grace Okon, Rose Bassey, Fidelis Offorbuike, Adamu Isa Audu and Ofem Uket.

Others are Elvina Ochia Chukwu, FCID special fraud unit, Ikoyi Lagos; Kyrian Igwe, Enugu State Command; Ndidiamaka Onwude, O/C JWC, B Division, Kpirikpri, Abakaliki, Ebonyi State Command, Rosemary Obianuju Egbo, Area Command, Warri, Delta State; Tabitha Gotan, Uya Bassey Johnson, Abia state Command, Elizabeth Ajik, NPF-NCC, FCID; Sunday Prince Ajaegbu, 44 PMF Force Headquarters Abuja and Deborah Danjuma, SPU BASE 7 Abuja.

Olowu Yetunde Olatunde, Ogun state Command, Felix Okpaleke, 32 PMF, Abakaliki Zakka Bulus, FCT Command Abuja, Kudirat Elegba, SPU Base 2, Lagos, Isioma Omodion, Delta State Command, Ukpabio Ayi Akiba, Rivers state Command and Edna Emeh Bassey were also some of the ASPs elevated to the new rank of Deputy Superintendents of Police.

The Commission’s approval has been conveyed to the Inspector General of Police for implementation in a letter signed by the Secretary to the Commission Chief Onyemuche Nnamani.

Police Frees 20 Ghanaians From Trafficking Den In Uyo

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Suleiman Anyalewechi

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August 20, 2025

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By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Akwa Ibom State Police Command on Wednesday August 20, 2025, announced the rescue of 20 Ghanaian Nationals from a suspected trafficking ring in Uyo.

A statement from the Command’s spokesperson Timfon John, informed that the victims comprising 10 males and 10 females were rescued from a suspected trafficking hideout in Uyo the State capital, on Monday August 18 .

According to the Police, the rescue operation was sequel to the receipt of a formal request for assistance from the Ghana Police Service and Interpol, as well as credible intelligence on the activities of the syndicate.

“The victims were rescued f from a compound in Obio Etoro Village in Uyo after an operation that was a collaborative effort.

“Acting on credible information, operatives surrounded a well-fenced building at about 4: 17 pm on Monday August 18, 2025.

The raid led to the rescue of 10 males and 10 females ( names withheld) ,all confirmed to be Ghanaian Nationals”, the police stated.

However,the statement added that the victims owing to psychological disorientation ,have not been able to provide useful information to assist in the investigation process.

This is as the police raised concerns about the possibility of the victims being hypnotized by their captors.

However, the Police assured that efforts are underway to unravel the circumstances surrounding the incident, noting that further information will be made available as events unfold.

Adamawa Hands Over 14 Trafficked Children To Parents

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Suleiman Anyalewechi

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August 20, 2025

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Governor Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa State — Governor Ahmadu Fintiri

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

No fewer than 14 stolen but rescued children were on Wednesday, August 20 2025, reunited with their families by the Adamawa State Government.

The children were said to be among those trafficked to Anambra State from Adamawa and were rescued last month.

The state Government donated the sum of N100,000 to each of the families of the rescued children.

Speaking during the formal handover of the children to their parents, the state Deputy Governor, Kaletapwa, said the cash gift is to assist the parents in starting small scale businesses to be able to take care of the kids.

The Deputy Governor who stood in for the Governor said to be outside the country, lamented the growing trend of child theft and trafficking in the State.

She expressed regret that most of the women involved in the unfortunate business of child trafficking in the State pose as concerned and caring elements, and lure their victims with such petty things as snacks.

“The monster of child trafficking unfortunately caught up with Adamawa State. But, it is gladdening that the children are back to be reunited with their parents.

“These child traffickers disguising as humanitarian advocates, most often do lure these innocent children from their parents with snacks.

“Then, after enticing the children, sell them to their accomplices in Anambra state”, the Deputy Governor stated.

She called on parents and guardians to monitor closely their wards ,and always be conscious of the safety and well-being of their children.

Before handing them over, the children were said to have been subjected to thorough medical examinations at the state-owned medical facilities.

Benue Governor Bows To Pressure, Suspends Appointees

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Suleiman Anyalewechi

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August 20, 2025

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By Suleiman Anyalewechi

Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, finally succumbed to pressure, and suspended the Chairperson of the State’s Universal Basic Education Board UBEB Dr Grace Adagba , Executive Secretary of the Benue state Lottery Commission Michael Uper and Chairman of the Otukpo Local Government Area of the state Maxwell Ogiri .

The Source reports that the officials were at various times recommended for disciplinary actions by the State House of Assembly .

The State Lawmakers had, in several resolutions, asked the Governor to suspend them from office for a period of at least six months.

However, the Governor ignored the resolutions, a development which forced the Legislators, about three weeks ago, to withhold action on the request by the Governor’ for the screening of eight Commissioner-nominees.

The House had insisted that it will only screen the Commissioner-nominees, or attend to any correspondences from the Governor after the implementation of the resolutions passed on the affected Government officials.

However, according to a statement from Kula Yersoo, the Governor’s media aide, the affected appointees were sanctioned for a period of one month as against the six months recommended by the Lawmakers.

“In line with the resolutions passed by the House, His Excellency affirms the following:

“The suspension of the Executive Chairman of Otukpo Local Government Area, Mr Maxwell Ogiri, for a period of one month effective today ( Wednesday August 20,2025) .

” The suspension of the Chairman of the State Universal Basic Education Board SUBEB, Mrs Grace Adagba, for a period of one month, effective today.

“The immediate suspension of the Executive Secretary of the Benue state Lottery Commission, Mr Michael Uper, for the period of one month”, the statement reads in part.

This is as Governor Alia emphasized his administration’s unflinching commitment towards ensuring the prevalence of the rule of law, due process and separation of powers.

House Of Reps Increases Lagos Local Governments From 20 To 57

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Akinwale Kasali

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August 20, 2025

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By Akinwale Kasali

With this increase, Lagos would now have the highest number of LGAs in Nigeria. It has overtaken Kano State which has 44. Bayelsa State has the least with Eight LGAs. The LCDAs in Lagos were created by President Tinubu when he was the Governor of the State, prompting then President Olusegun Obasanjo to seize the State’s LGA allocations

The House of Representatives has passed a landmark bill seeking to upgrade the 37 Local Council Development Areas, LCDAs in Lagos State into fully recognised Local Government Areas, LGAs.

Before now, the Federal Government recognized only 20 Local Government Areas in Lagos State, with the 37 LCDAs unrecognized.

The LCDAs were created by President Bola Tinubu when he was the Governor of Lagos State, prompting then President Olusegun Obasanjo to seize Federal Allocations to Lagos LGAs.

The proposed legislation, titled A Bill for an Act to Alter the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), to Accommodate the Thirty-Seven (37) Development Area Councils of Lagos State as Full-Fledged Local Government Areas was among 42 Constitution Amendment Bills approved by the House during Wednesday’s Plenary Session.

If the Bill is signed into law, ir will increase the number of LGAs in Lagos from 20 to 57 and raise the total number of LGAs in Nigeria from 774 to 811.

The Bill to recognize the 37 LCDAs was co-sponsored by Hon. James Abiodun Faleke, representing Ikeja Federal Constituency, Hon. Babajimi Benson, representing Ikorodu Federal Constituency, Hon. Enitan Dolapo Badru representing Lagos Island I Federal Constituency, and 19 other Lawmakers, scaled its Second Reading in a Plenary presided over by Deputy Speaker, Benjamin Kalu.

With this development, Lagos would officially become the State with the highest number of LGAs in the country, surpassing Kano (44 LGAs) and Katsina (34 LGAs). Bayelsa has the least with eight LGAs, only.

The legislation is expected to further strengthen grassroots governance, improve administrative reach, and enhance the delivery of democratic dividends to the growing population of Lagos State.

Veteran Nollywood Actor, Fabian Adibe Is Dead

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Akinwale Kasali

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August 20, 2025

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By Akinwale Kasali

Fabian Adibe, Veteran Nollywood actor, popular for his role in the classic TV series, Things Fall Apart, is dead.

The legendary Adibe who celebrated his 80th birthday in February 2025, died peacefully around 2:30 am on Wednesday.

His death was confirmed by his family members who are mourning and celebrating his time on earth.

Adibe gained widespread admiration for his iconic portrayal in the adaptation of Chinua Achebe’s ‘Things Fall Apart’, and his calm demeanor and powerful performances endeared him to generations of viewers.

The actor and television personality who led Nigeria to her first Commonwealth Art Festival in 1965 began his acting career in 1987 in the acclaimed Nigerian TV series, “Things fall apart.”

He played the role of Ogbuefi Uzowulu and acted alongside Pete Edochie. His other co-actors, Justus Esiri and Sam Loco Efe, in the series are now deceased.

It would be recalled that before his demise, he had left Nollywood.

In an interview with Nigerian travel journalist, Chinelo Okafor, Adibe had said he left Nollywood because of “packaging.”

He said: “I left them (Nollywood) because one of their boys came and told me that they are starting a thing called ‘packaging.’ So I asked him what packaging is, and he said they would give you three scripts.

You will do two and get paid while the other would be for them. Why would you want me to do one for you for free? I said I wouldn’t? I told the boy I would not be part of that packaging.’’

He featured in over 300 movies, some of which include ‘Slave Warrior’ (2012), ‘White Kingdom 2’ (2014), and ‘Father’s (2014).

The revered actor also featured in foreign movies, including “Soweto,” a story about the struggle in South Africa, and “Mr. Johnson,” a Hollywood film.

The actor was a staff of the Nigerian Television Authority until he was retrenched on May 25, 1984.

Tributes are already pouring in from colleagues, fans, and industry stakeholders mourning the loss of a true legend.