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Group Flays Police Invitation Of Emir Of Kano, Sanusi

April 6, 2025

By Ayodele Oni

Police invitation to the Emir of Kano, Lamido Sanusi, has generated reactions among prominent Nigerians with some condemning the action.

The invitation by the police was dated April 4, 2025 and signed by Olajide Rufus Ibitoye, Commissioner of Police (OPS) on behalf of the Deputy Inspector General of Police in charge of Force Intelligence Department, and surfaced in public on Saturday.

According to CP Ibitoye, the Emir was invited in relation to an incident in the ancient city during the recent Sallah celebration.

It stated: “I have the directives of the Inspector General of Police through the Deputy Inspector General of Police, Force Intelligence Department (FID) to invite you for an investigative meeting with regards to an incident that occurred during the Sallah celebration within your domain.”

The Assembly for the Preservation of Traditional Institutions in Nigeria described the invitation extended to the Emir of Kano, as suspicious.

National Coordinator of the group, Alhaji Yahya Nda Musa pointed out that the matter in question is already being handled by the Kano state command of the Nigeria Police.

“The Assembly for the Preservation of Traditional Institutions in Nigeria therefore, received the content of this letter with utter surprise, disbelief and suspicion based on the fact that the only known incident during the Sallah celebration was an attack on the Emir’s entourage by some miscreants on his way back to the palace along Kofar Wambai after the Eid prayer at the Kofar Mata Eid prayer ground.

“In the wake of the attack on the Emir’s entourage, which was declared as assassination attempt on Khalifa Muhammadu Sanusi II, the Police announced the arrest of one Sagiru Usman, a 20 year old of Sharifai Quarters as one of the suspected attackers of the Emir’s entourage which led to the death of one Surajo Rabiu, a vigilante member from Sabon Titi in Jaba area of the state.

“In the same vein, the Kano Police Command launched investigation into the incident and invited Shamakin Kano, Alhaji Isyaku Wada, the Chief guard of the Emir for questioning over the security breach.

“Therefore, it is confusing and unimaginable that despite the ongoing investigation by the Kano State Command of the Nigeria Police, in what appears as a sudden turn of events, the Police high Command in Abuja extended an invitation to the Emir in connection to the same matter that is being investigated by the state command of the Police Force. This is curious.

“Let it be known that we are not unmindful or questioning the authority of the Police to extend invitation to any Nigerian irrespective of his or her status, however, we are constrained to express our suspicion and express our curiosity based on the fact that there has been lingering dispute over the stool of the Kano Emir which was orchestrated by some trouble makers.

“We are of the view that, this invitation to Khalifa Muhammadu Sanusi II by the Police high command, is an affront on our revered traditional institution whose custodian and identity is the Emir and therefore call on the Police to refrain from being used by some selfish people whose known trade is causing trouble and are hell bent on destabilizing Kano.

“Though, we are happy that, despite earlier alarm that was raised on the eve of the Sallah for an impending security threat, the occasion ended peacefully with citizens going about their lawful business.

“However, we are concerned that this invitation of the Police to the Emir is a recipe for unrest due to the fact the Emir is held in high esteem by his subjects and therefore such an invitation can be seen as desecration of the revered institution and therefore reprehensible on the part of his subjects.”

“Olunloyo Obtained PhD In Applied Mathematics And Number Theory At The Age Of 25” – President Tinubu Mourns Fmr. Oyo Gov.

Ayodele Oni

April 6, 2025

By Ayodele Oni

President Bola Tinubu has joined notable Nigerians to mourn the passage of former Governor of old Oyo state, Dr Omololu Olunloyo whose death was announced on Sunday.

The President conveyed his deepest condolences to the government and people of Oyo State, in a statement by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, on Sunday.

According to the statement, “President Tinubu, on behalf of the Federal Government, extended sympathies to the Olunloyo family and all who knew and respected the late elder statesman and scholar.

“Dr. Olunloyo, renowned for his mathematical prowess, obtained a PhD in Applied Mathematics and Number Theory from St. Andrews University in Scotland at 25. In 1962, at just 27, he became a Commissioner in the Old Western Region.

“He served multiple times as Commissioner in the Western State, which succeeded the Western Region.

“His leadership as the founding Rector of The Polytechnic Ibadan and Kwara State Polytechnic established enduring academic and administrative foundations in the two institutions.

“President Tinubu paid tribute to Dr Olunloyo’s remarkable academic and professional journey and his fervent belief in education as a transformative tool for national development.

“Dr Olunloyo will be celebrated in academic circles for his brilliance and foundational contributions to applied mathematics and number theory. As an educator, he profoundly influenced future leaders and fortified educational institutions.”

Reflecting on Dr. Olunloyo’s tenure as governor of the old Oyo State, President Tinubu remarked: “Although his time in office was brief, his tenure was marked by exceptional vision and leadership.

“The abrupt end to his administration due to military intervention did not deter him from continuing to serve the nation.”

President Tinubu further applauded the late governor for his unwavering commitment to Nigeria’s unity, progress, and intellectual advancement, emphasising that his contributions will remain enduring milestones in the nation’s history.

“May the Almighty God grant him eternal rest and bring solace to all who mourn this distinguished statesman.”

Plateau Massacre: Northern Govs Say Killings, Threat To Unity, Stability Of Region

Ayodele Oni

April 6, 2025

By Ayodele Oni

The Northern States Governors’ Forum (NSGF) has condemned the recent attacks on five communities in Bokkos Local Government Area of Plateau State, describing them as senseless.

The Forum said killings threaten the unity and stability of the Region.

The Chairman of the Forum and Governor of Gombe State, Inuwa Yahaya, in a statement, expressed deep sorrow over the tragic incidents, which claimed over 50 lives, and left scores injured, mostly women and children.

The statement was made available to journalists in Gombe by Mr Ismaila Uba-Misilli, the Director-General, Press Affairs, Gombe Government House.

Yahaya, while commiserating with families of victims as well as the government and people of Plateau, decried the cycle of attacks on rural communities in the North.

He described the persistent shedding of innocent blood as a stain on the conscience of the region and the nation.

“The sanctity of human life must never be taken for granted. These heinous attacks on innocent people are totally unacceptable and must be condemned by all.”

The NSGF Chairman commended the Plateau governor, Mr Caleb Mutfwang, for his swift response and measures taken after the attacks, as well as the security agencies for their rapid intervention to restore calm.

He, however, urged security operatives to intensify efforts to track down the perpetrators and bring them to justice.

Yahaya also stressed the need for tolerance, peace building and mutual understanding among diverse communities, particularly between farmers and herders.

He reiterated the commitment of the Northern governors to working collectively to address insecurity, promoting social cohesion, and fostering harmonious coexistence across the region.

“As Northern governors, we will continue to take deliberate steps to end this cycle of violence, by strengthening security collaboration, promoting dialogue, and implementing policies that encourage peace and unity.”

He further called for support from all stakeholders to complement government’s efforts by preaching peace, tolerance, and forgiveness.

“Olunloyo, Titan Who Left Legacies That Nigeria Should Be Proud Of” – Southern Govs Forum

Ayodele Oni

April 6, 2025

By Ayodele Oni

Chairman of the Southern Governors Forum, (SGF), in a tribute, has eulogized late former Governor of Oyo state, Omololu Olunloyo, describing him as a highly accomplished scholar and a genius even among geniuses.

Chairman of the Forum and Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun described the death of Dr. Omololu Olunloyo, mathematician and engineer, and renowned technocrat, a few days before his 90th birthday, as a great loss to Nigeria and intellectuals around the world.

Abiodun, who expressed the Southern Governors Forum’s condolences with the Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, and the government and people of Oyo State in a statement issued in Abeokuta on Sunday, described Olunloyo as a titan who left legacies that every Nigerian should be proud of.

Abiodun, who described the late politician who served as the governor of Oyo State from October 1, 1983, to December 31, 1983, said the life of the Balogun of Oyo and Otun Bobasewa of Ife; first Rector of Ibadan Polytechnic and first Rector of Kwara State Polytechnic, among others, was a study in excellence.

He added that Dr. Olunloyo’s unique achievements as “a prodigious scholar with reputable papers, and as an octogenarian with a sharp memory and wit, not to mention a lifelong dedication to books and the quest for knowledge in various fields, were well known.

“Alas, like many giants before him, Dr. Omololu Olunloyo has gone to rest. Although a scientist, Baba loved reciting poetry, particularly those by William Shakespeare, and, remarkably, did not read with glasses even in his old age.

“He was always on hand to offer wise counsel to the present generation of leaders, regardless of party affiliation.

“The story of his exemplary accomplishments as a student is well told. For instance, he was one of the 10 students who were given scholarships out of the 2,002 students who applied to Government College, Ibadan, in 1947.

“Remarkably, out of those ten brilliant students, he was the only one who came from Standard 5; all the others had already completed Standard 6.

“Dr. Olunloyo did his Higher School Certificate in three months, came first in all of the old Ibadan Province, and got admission to study Mechanical Engineering at the oldest Scottish university, the University of St Andrews.

“Because of his exceptional brilliance, he succeeded in persuading the university to let him begin his studies in 200 level and graduated with First Class honours at age 26, going on to become a state commissioner at just 27.

“On behalf of the Southern Governors Forum, I commiserate with His Excellency, Governor Seyi Abiodun Makinde, and the government and people of Oyo State on this great loss.

“May the Almighty God grant him eternal rest and give his family and friends the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.”

Sacking Of Non-Indigenes By Past Abia State Administrations Is Illegal – Gov Otti

Suleiman Anyalewechi

April 6, 2025

Alex Otti - Abia State Governor — Alex Otti, Abia State Governor

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

Abia State Governor, Dr Alex Otti, has assured of the readiness of his administration to revisit the issue of sacked non-indigenous civil servants in the State.

He also expressed his unwavering determination to nurse back to life some old Industrial and business outfits in the commercial nerve centre of Abia State, with a view to creating more job opportunities for the people.

The Source reports that the Abia State Government under former Governor Theodore Orji, between 2010 and 2011, disengaged not a few Imo Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu and other civil servants in Abia State, citing lean resources and need for restructuring as major reasons.

Unfortunately, however, many of the sacked non-indigenous workers were relieved of their appointments at the twilight of their careers thus forstalling the possibility of retirements with benefits and pensions.

Instructively too, many were being owed several months of salary arrears as at the time of their disengagement.

Several efforts to have the immediate ,past administration of Dr Okezie Ikpeazu reconsider the sad fate and plight of the sacked non-indigenes were not only rebuffed, but escalated.

Between 2019 ,and 2021, many non-indigenes, alongside Abians were massively sacked at the State’s Polytechnic in Aba, parastatals and other MDAs in a move that was widely perceived as politically motivated.

Sadly too, all the victims left with salary arrears ranging between 16 and 23 months ,which have not been paid till date.

At a reception held in his honour by the Union of Anambra State Association, Aba Branch, on Saturday, April 5, 2025 ,Governor Otti noted that even though the development happened long before he came on board, he will nevertheless take a second look to explore the possibilities of a fair resolution.

“The President General just made two requests- the first one is a piece of land to build a community project. Let us know where you want the land and you will get.

“The Second one is the issue of sacked non-indigenes in 2011. A list of 154 people who were disengaged in 2011 has been submitted.

“I have taken the list ,and I will ask my people to look at it . I see that majority of the people were teachers, and I don’t know how old they are now.

“But if they are under 65 ,we will be able to work out an arrangement where we may re-engage them on contract basis.

“We have a shortage of teachers ,and because we don’t agree that somebody who lives here is not from here, that action in 2011 was illegal ” Governor Otti stated .

He informed that he will direct the State’s Head of Service, himself a non-indigene, from Edo state, to look into the case of the disengaged non-indigenes with a view to finding a way of either compensating them or re-absorbing them .

“As I noticed, this issue is not limited to Anambra indigenes. People from Imo and other South East States may have been affected .What we are trying to do is to redress the wrong of the past”. the Governor noted .

To further create jobs ,rather than sacking people ,Governor Otti, said his administration is currently interfacing with the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria, AMCON, on the possibilities of acquiring and resuscitating the moribund Aba Textile Mills and Star Paper Mills ,and other rested large scale industrial outfits in Aba.

“We are negotiating with the people that acquired the Aba Textile Mill .We want to return it to life .

“As a Government ,we are interfacing with AMCON.We want to acquire the Star Paper Mill ,and bring it back on stream.

“These industries were set up by our forebears. They were visionary. So, if we cannot do better than them, we cannot explain why we are in this world.

So ,it is a challenge. I want the support of everyone so that we return our State to what it used to be” the Governor emphasized .

How Two Chinese, Police Inspector Were Killed In Abia

Suleiman Anyalewechi

April 6, 2025

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Abia State Police Command on Saturday April 5,2025 ,reaffirmed their commitment towards adequately protecting lives and properties of residents of the state.

The assurance is coming on the heels of the rescue of three Chinese nationals ,and two Police officers from the hands of kidnappers.

Tragically, however, two other Chinese expatriates and one of Inspector of Police were killed by the hoodlums.

A statement from Chilaka Maureen DSP ,the Command’s spokesperson informed that the Chinese nationals were ambushed and attacked by the gunmen while they were on their way to their Company premises ,in Agukwu-Amaya Ndundu community in Isukwuato Local Council of the State on Friday April 4.

According to the Police, in the course of the attack ,the criminal elements killed the Manager of the Company, Mr Quan, his colleague Mr Cai and Inspector Audu Saidu ,one of their security escorts.

The assailants also carted away Inspector Saidu’s service rifle.

“The Abia State Police Command in collaboration with the Military and other sister Security Agencies, led by the Divisional Police Officer, DPO Uturu, has successfully rescued four Chinese expatriates and two escort Police Officers .

“This followed a distress call received on 04/04/2025 at about 17:30hrs that unidentified armed men had ambushed and attacked a group of Chinese expatriates and their Police escorts while they were en route to their Company site located at Agukwu-Amaya ,Ndundu community ,Uturu ,Isukwuato LGA .

“Tragically, during the attack ,the Manager, Mr Quan, his colleague Mr Cai and Inspector Audu Saidu ( one of the escort officers) were killed .

“The assailants also carted away Inspector Saidu’s rifle.

“Upon receiving the information, Operatives from Abia state Command, in a joint operation with the Military and other sister Agencies, launched a search mission .

“As a result, three Chinese expatriates were rescued unhurt, while one sustained injuries.

“Inspector Uba Ahmed ,who was rescued, suffered gunshot injury on the leg. Both the injured officer and the expatriate are currently receiving treatment at the FMC Abakaliki”, the police stated .

According to the police, operatives from the tactical team of the Command ,led by the Deputy Commissioner of Police have visited the scene of the attack ,as part of an ongoing search and rescue operation for other victims .

“Through collaborative action ,involving the police ,the military ,and local community members ,Inspector Ijeagwa Friday was also rescued unhurt ” Maureen noted .

The State Commissioner of Police CP Danladi Isah, while lauding the Joint Security Team for the efforts, also assured that the perpetrators of the dastardly act will be tracked down and brought to justice .

“I Was Looking Forward To Baba’s 90th Birthday On April 14” – Oyo Gov Makinde Mourns Fmr. Gov. Olunloyo

Ayodele Oni

April 6, 2025

By Ayodele Oni

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde has expressed sadness over the death of former Governor, Dr. Victor Omololu Olunloyo. He described it as the loss of a highly intelligent and capable leader for Nigeria.

In a statement released on Sunday, Governor Makinde conveyed his deep sympathy to the Olunloyo family, the people of Ibadan, and the entire Oyo State.

He noted the particular poignancy of the renowned Mathematician and Elder Statesman passing away just before his 90th birthday.

He said: “On behalf of the Government and the good People of Oyo State, I express my heartfelt condolences to the family of Dr Omololu Olunloyo, the people of Ibadanland and Oyo State on the demise of the former Governor.

“In Dr Olunloyo, we have lost another icon. This time, we lost a highly cerebral and patriotic leader, who served our great state at its early stages.

“This death hits differently because I was looking forward to Baba’s 90th birthday, which would have come up on April 14th.

However, we have to submit to the will of God, who gives and takes lives as He wills.

“My joy is that our government immortalised and honoured Pa Olunloyo in his life time and he was present to witness it, as we named the Ibadan Airport Road and the Leisure Park on the axis after him in recognition of his service to the State.

“May the Lord grant repose to his soul and give his family the fortitude to bear his demise.”

A statement by his family on Sunday, stated that the former governor died a few days before his 90th birthday.

The statement titled ‘Victor Olunloyo goes home’ was signed Oladapo Ogunwusi on behalf of the family.

“With a heavy heart but gratitude to the Almighty, we announce the passing into glory of Dr. Victor Omololu Olunloyo, former governor of Oyo State, mathematician and engineer and renowned technocrat, a few days before his 90th birthday.

The Balogun of Oyo and Otun Bobasewa of Ife, Dr. Olunloyo was first Rector, Ibadan polytechnic and first Rector, Kwara State Polytechnic among other notable appointments.

“His long record of service to the nation and humanity is a source of pride to his family and associates even as we come to grip with this devastating event.

“The Olunloyo family will appreciate the understanding of the press and the public as they commence efforts to give him a befitting burial. Even from everlasting to everlasting, He is God.”

LASG Queries Hospital Over Death Of Pregnant Woman, Begins Investigation

Akinwale Kasali

April 6, 2025

By Akinwale Kasali

The Lagos State Government has started an investigation to unravel the circumstances which led to the death of Mrs. Kemi Akinbobola, a pregnant woman at As Salam Convalescent Centre in Ibeju, Lekki Local Government Area, of the State.

Akinbobola was alleged to have been denied medical care by the Health Facility over the inability of her husband, Folajimi, to pay the sum of ₦500,000 as deposit.

Prof. Akin Abayomi, Lagos State Commissioner for Health, made this disclosure while responding to the public outcry which followed her passing. He stated that a Panel has been set-up to uncover the details, and identify any breaches in medical care standards.

Abayomi explained that the panel was setup by the Lagos State Ministry of Health, in partnership with the Health Facilities Monitoring and Accreditation Agency, HEFAMAA.

“Initial investigations suggest that multiple parties, including a traditional birth attendant and the private hospital, were involved and are currently being interviewed”, he added.

“The investigation focuses on several critical areas: verification of the registration status of the individuals and facilities with HEFAMAA, compliance with approved scopes of practice, adherence to emergency medical protocols, and identification of any negligence that contributed to the incident. A report from the panel is anticipated soon, and those found responsible will face legal consequences.

“The Lagos State Government has reiterated that all healthcare facilities, public or private, must comply with HEFAMAA regulations, including accreditation and regular inspections. The Government maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy towards Facilities that operate illegally or fail to provide necessary emergency care, as such failures constitute a breach of medical ethics.

“We also wish to reiterate that no Healthcare Facility is permitted to deny emergency care to any patient, especially in life-threatening situations. It is a breach of medical ethics and regulatory obligations, and such acts will be met with strict penalties.

“We are also using this opportunity to reiterate Government’s position in enforcing compliance and regulation of nursing homes and Traditional Birth Attendants (TBAs) as a holistic strategy to strengthen the healthcare system.

“The public is encouraged to report any healthcare facility that is not registered with HEFAMAA or is practicing beyond its accredited capacity, emphasizing the importance of using Government-approved institutions for medical care. To enhance oversight, the Government is intensifying monitoring efforts across all health establishments, ensuring they adhere to quality and safety standards.

“Moreover, the Lagos State Government calls on community leaders, religious organizations, and healthcare professionals to collaborate in promoting maternal and child health. The Government is committed to justice for Mrs. Folajimi and her family, assuring that accountability for negligence and breach of duty will be pursued vigorously”.

“Attempting To Destroy LP Will Lead To Your Destruction” – Gov Otti Warns Abure

Suleiman Anyalewechi

April 6, 2025

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

Abia State Governor, Dr Alex Otti, has urged the erstwhile National Chairman of Labour Party, LP, Bar. Julius Abure and his National Working Committee, NWC, members to place the interest and unity of the party above any other considerations.

Governor Otti’s admonition comes against the backdrop of the insistence by the Abure-led NWC of still being in charge, despite the Supreme court verdict on the Party’s leadership crisis.

The Apex Court had, on Friday April 4, 2025, in a unanimous decision by a five-man man panel of Justices, affirmed the supremacy of political parties in all internal issues, including Leadership.

The Panel had, while upholding the appeal filed by the Senator Esther Nenadi Usman-led Interim leadership of the party against the continued stay in office the Abure-led NWC, also held that its tenure had elapsed as at the time of the conduct of the controversial Nnewi Convention in 2024.

However, the judgment has since been subjected to varying interpretations by the concerned parties,with Abure and his official claiming not to have been sacked, as widely perceived by not a few as well as the interim leadership of the party.

The Usman-led interim leadership was put together on September 4, 2024, at a special Stakeholders meeting in Umuahia, the Abia State Capital, as a last practical effort at saving the the Party from a complete death.

The meeting, attended by its 2023 Presidential Candidate, Peter Obi, his running mate, Senator Datti Ahmed, Members of the National Assembly caucus, and other major stakeholders across the country, was convened and hosted by the Party’s only elected Governor, Otti.

However, the outcome of the parley including the establishment of the Usman-led interim leadership was roundly rejected by the Abure faction, which insisted on the sanctity of the outcome of the heavily boycotted Nnewi Convention where they claimed to have been re-elected for a second term in office.

But reacting to the position of the Abure-led faction on Saturday April 5, 2025 at an event in his Nvosi Isiala Ngwa South Council of the State, Governor Otti called on the Abure group to consider giving peace a chance in the overall interest of the party.

According to him, any attempts to undermine the peace, stability and growth of LP at this stage will be counterproductive. He emphasized the pre-eminence of the party over all other persons and interests.

He, however, warned those trying to destroy the party to be mindful of the fact that they are also destroying themselves.

“The Party is bigger and more important than any of us. The triumph of evil over good is for a while.

“So, we thank God for the Supreme Court judgment on Friday. We, somehow, believed that justice will be done to Labour Party, and we are happy that it has been done.

“However, I have heard and observed some people claiming not to have been removed from office by the Supreme Court judgment.

“We can, as well, ignore them, but I will not. I want to appeal to them to give peace a chance. Except if their target has been to destroy the party from the onset.

“But if they want to destroy the Party, they will end up destroying themselves, and the party will become even stronger”, Governor Otti warned.

Anambra APC Governorship Primaries: Ozigbo Knocked Out Mercilessly

The Source

April 6, 2025

By Charles Igbo

Dr. Valentine Ozigbo was, in the early hours of Sunday, 6th April, given the worst beating of his political life.

He was mercilessly knocked out of the All Progressives Congress’ Governorship Primaries by businessman, Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu.

Ukachukwu scored a total of 1,455 votes to Ozigbo’s miserable 67 votes which placed him on a very distant second place.

Until recently when he shocked many by decamping to the All Progressives Congress, APC, Ozigbo was of the Labour Party, LP, and a strong ally of its Presidential Candidate in the 2023 Elections, Peter Obi. Ozigbo was its Governorship Candidate and was roundly beaten by the incumbent, Professor Charles Soludo.

A few days after joining the APC, he picked its Governorship Primaries forms, confirming it was the reason for which he left. He then surprised many by visiting President Bola Tinubu’s daughter, Mrs Folashade Tinubu-Ojo to present the forms to her.

Just before the APC Primaries, Professor Obiora Okonkwo, owner, United Nigeria Airline, Paul Chukwuma and Chukwuma Umeoji, withdrew from the race citing “no confidence” in the process.

The Primaries of the All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, and LP, had, earlier, produced incumbent Governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo and George Moghalu, respectively, as their flag bearers.

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