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FG Hints On Prosecution Of Suspects Linked To Assaulted Ondo Teacher, As Student’s Father Petitions IGP

By
Ayodele Oni
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Thugs beat Ondo School Teacher

By Ayodele Oni

The Federal Ministry of Education has taken over the assault case involving a secondary school student and his mother in Ondo State who used suspected thugs to beat up a Vice Principal for disallowing the student to cheat during the West African School Certificate Examination, (WASCE).

Already, the Ondo State Police Command has arrested the student, mother and three other persons over the assault of the vice principal, Mr Rotifa.

Meanwhile, the father of the student, Elisha Imokhuede, has introduced another dimension into the incident as he raised allegation of abduction against the Vice Principal, in a petition to the Inspector General of Police, (IGP).

The Federal Ministry of Education in a statement on Tuesday, “strongly condemns, in its entirety, the unfortunate incident which occurred at Complete Child Development College, Aule, Akure, Ondo State, where suspected thugs, allegedly hired by the parents of a student, assaulted the Vice Principal, Mr. Rotifa, for performing his lawful duty of upholding the integrity of the ongoing West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).”

The statement, signed by Boriowo Folasade, Director, Press and Public Relations, stated  “We commend the swift response of Executive Governor of Ondo State His Excellency Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, and the State Police Command in arresting the suspects, including Mrs. Dorcas Asije and four accomplices.

“We urge that thorough investigations be concluded and all culprits duly prosecuted to serve as a deterrent.

“The Ministry, under the leadership of the Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, reiterates its zero tolerance for examination malpractice, intimidation of school staff, and any form of unethical conduct from students, parents, or guardians.

“Any student found engaging in examination malpractice will face sanctions in line with national examination guidelines.

“Furthermore, any parent or guardian who enables, supports, or participates in such criminal behaviour will be prosecuted under the law.

“The Honourable Minister stated that all schools are encouraged to promptly report any threats or breaches of conduct during examinations to law enforcement agencies and relevant educational authorities.

“We are working in collaboration with state ministries of education, law enforcement agencies, and examination bodies to enhance the security and integrity of our examination processes.

“The Federal Ministry of Education stands firmly with the management and staff of Complete Child Development College, and by extension, all education stakeholders nationwide who continue to uphold the values of discipline, accountability, academic excellence, and who resist examination malpractice.”

But Imokhuede, in a petition to the IGP, made available to Journalists in Akure on Tuesday, alleged that “the school’s Vice Principal stormed my neighborhood in the company of unidentified men.

“Shockingly, they forcefully took my 13-year-old nephew, Gideon Osesa—a student of FUTA Secondary School—who was running some errands for his mother, from the roadside into a vehicle.

“Fearing it was a case of kidnapping using a police vehicle, given there was no initial invitation and how he frantically pleaded and screamed, concerned neighbours raised an alarm and gave chase. The child’s mother, upon being informed, joined the pursuit to rescue her son.

“During the ensuing chaos, one of the men, who later identified himself as the Vice Principal, suffered a minor physical injury. We are not aware of the exact circumstances leading to this, but we understand it occurred during the commotion sparked by fear of an abduction. There is video evidence of the entire encounter.”

Onitsha: People’s Power As Police Bursts Vehicle’s Tyre, Drivers Block Road, Demand Replacement

By
The Source
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Onitsha Police Tyre Burst

By Charles Igbo

The power of the people was at work a couple of days ago at Onitsha, Anambra State. And lessons were learnt. The power of the people.

Police Operatives who usually stay at the Onitsha Head Bridge, apparently, chewed more than they could swallow a couple of days ago.

According to reports, they were doing their job, and “softened” it by their usual “roger”. Meaning that as they worked, they were doing the ugly and shameful usual – collecting money from motorists.

But this was a bad  day. And motorists, particularly, articulated vehicle drivers, have had enough.

According to reports, the Policemen stopped a trailer driver, and asked him for money. But three things: It is either the driver was in a foul mood, has become tired of giving them all the time, or just had no money to give them. Whatever, he refused to pay what motorists have since dubbed “Police toll gate”.

After a little argument, the now irritated driver made to drive off. As he did so, one of the Policemen aimed at one of his tyres, and released a shot. It shattered the tyre.

That was when trouble started.

His colleagues and every other motorist around at that point in time, revolted. They blocked the ever busy and important Asaba- Onitsha road. And refused to move an inch. The traffic stretched for kilometers on end. But they insisted they would leave only if the Police purchased a new tyre to replace the one their Operative shattered.

Before one could say “jack”, a large crowd had gathered, including “agberos”. They taunted the Police. The trailer drivers began to ask questions of the Police. “Do you know what we suffer on the road? Do you know the cost of a tyre? Do you know what we suffer in your hands along the road? We don’t mind how long we stay here, but you must replace this tyre. Do you know how much we pay along the road? Which armed robber have you caught here? You only collect money from us.” It was an embarrassing scene.

But, they stuck to their demand – a new tyre or no deal. After a long standoff, the Police, somehow, actually brought a new tyre. And the jubilant crowd celebrated. Talk of people’s power. It won.

2027: ‘A Referendum On President Tinubu’s Leadership’ – Atiku Says

By
Akinwale Kasali
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Atiku Abubakar
Atiku Abubakar

By Akinwale Kasali

Atiku Abubakar, the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Presidential Candidate at the 2023 Election has stated that the 2027 General Election will serve as a referendum on President Bola Tinubu’s administration. He emphasised that the outcome will reflect Nigerians’ verdict on his governance.

The former Vice President made this known through his media adviser, Paul Ibe, in response to allegations from the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, accusing Atiku of attempting to reposition the opposition for personal gain and to regain access to public resources.

Debunking the claims, Ibe insisted that Atiku’s political efforts are rooted in the collective aspirations of Nigerians for a better life.

He said in the statement: “It’s evident that this government was never prepared for governance, all they care about is politics.

“They’ve gone to extreme lengths to stifle progress, and their actions undermine the very foundation of democracy.”

He cited the inefficiency in the current administration, and criticized what he described as exaggerated celebrations over minimal accomplishments—such as the completion of just 30 kilometres out of a proposed 700-kilometre road project in two years.

“They held a grand celebration for achieving just 4% of the project. It’s absurd. The funds wasted on that fanfare could have been used to build additional kilometres of the road,” he added.

Ibe also raised concerns over the worsening socio-economic conditions under Tinubu’s leadership, noting that Nigeria now leads Africa in child malnutrition and remains the global poverty capital.

He further defended Atiku’s integrity, pointing to his long-standing business record and personal contributions to his political campaigns.

“Where were these critics when Atiku was already a successful businessman before Nigeria’s return to democracy in 1999? He has created jobs, built businesses, and financed his campaigns from his own resources—not from public funds,” Ibe stated.

He urged the APC to shift its focus from political distractions to effective governance, warning that the 2027 election will be a direct contest between Tinubu and the Nigerian people.

Plateau Pilgrim Dies In Saudi Arabia

By
Ayodele Oni
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Mecca

By Ayodele Oni

Nigeria has recorded second death during the ongoing pilgrimage to Makkah, Saudi Arabia as a female pilgrim from Plateau State, Hajiya Jamila Muhammad, died.

Jamila’s death was confirmed on Monday night by the Executive Secretary of the Plateau State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Daiyabu Dauda, who also serves as the Amirul Hajj for the state’s delegation.

According to Dauda, the late pilgrim passed away at the King Abdul’aziz Hospital in Makkah due to complications related to diabetes, as confirmed by attending medical personnel.

He explained that upon receiving reports of her deteriorating condition, he immediately directed the medical team to attend to her at the hospital, following instructions from Governor Caleb Mutfwang to prioritize the health and well-being of all Plateau pilgrims.

Her funeral prayer was held at the Grand Mosque in Makkah and was attended by officials of the pilgrimage board and her relatives. She was laid to rest according to Islamic rites.

“With a heavy heart and in full submission to the will of Allah, we announce the passing of one of our female pilgrims, Hajiya Jamila Muhammad, on Monday, June 2, 2025, in Makkah.

Her death was attributed to complications arising from diabetes,” the statement read.

Dauda also referenced a verse from the Holy Quran, saying: “And whoever leaves his home as an emigrant to Allah and His Messenger and then death overtakes him, his reward has already become incumbent upon Allah (Quran 4:100).”

He extended his deepest sympathies to the government and people of Plateau State, as well as the family and friends of the deceased, praying that Allah forgives her shortcomings and grants her Aljannatul Firdaws.

One pilrimage from Edo had earlier been confirmed dead in the Holy Land.

Unity Bank, AfriGo Partner To Deepen Access To Electronic Payments

By
Tosin Olatokunbo
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Unity Bank and Afrigo

Unity Bank Plc has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing electronic payment adoption and financial inclusion by partnering with domestic card scheme provider, AfriGo, to boost card usage across its retail customer segments.

This pledge was made during a high-level strategic business engagement held at Unity Bank’s head office in Lagos on Friday, with AfriGo’s Executive Management team.

Speaking during the session, Unity Bank’s Managing Director/CEO, Mr. Ebenezer Kolawole, stated: “We are committed to making the AfriGo Card a primary delivery channel for Unity Bank. As a national domestic card scheme, it deserves to be promoted both internally and externally as a local solution with significant potential to redefine Nigeria’s card payment landscape.” Kolawole also pledged the Bank’s continued support for the adoption of AfriGo cards across its network, while urging AfriGo to intensify awareness campaigns to drive greater market acceptability.

In her remarks, the Managing Director of AfriGo, Ebehijie Momoh, commended Unity Bank for the support it has given the scheme, stating that the Bank ranks among the top five adopters of the AfriGo card and highlighted its growing impact in expanding financial inclusion and improving access to electronic payments.

She noted that AfriGo has continued to innovate with technologies that support instant payments and offline capabilities, ensuring broader access to e-payment systems across underserved markets. She added that partnerships with solutions like Tap & Go have helped boost contactless payment adoption, improving convenience for cardholders who commute for work, business, or leisure.

Momoh expressed optimism about the potential of Unity Bank’s extensive retail network to drive deeper collaboration aimed at enhancing e-banking penetration nationwide.

This collaboration underscores Unity Bank’s enduring culture of digital innovation and its commitment to financial inclusion through homegrown technology. Over the years, the Bank has introduced several digital solutions that demonstrate this commitment.

2025 Hajj: Illegal Pilgrims Risk 10-year Ban

By
James Orji
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Nigerian Pilgrimages - Hajj

Pilgrims from Nigeria performing this year’s Muslim pilgrimage to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia risk  10-year ban,  deportation and 100,000 riyals fine.

This was made known by the Charge d’Affaires, Nigerian Embassy, Riyadh, Dr Modibbo Umar, who warns participating pilgrims to be law-abiding and “follow the rule and regulations” of the oil rich Arabian Kingdom.

According to him, the Saudi authorities have warned pilgrims that illegality will not be tolerated, saying the fine against illegal pilgrimage has been raised this year to serve as a warning to those who may want to do otherwise.

The fine has raised to 100,000 riyals from  50,000 in the previous year.

Gwadabe said, “We have very strong advice for our pilgrims. We need to be law-abiding and follow the rules and regulations of our hosts for the duration of our pilgrimage here.

“We should also let our people around here know that the Saudi authorities this year have sent very strong signals that Hajj without permit will not be condoned.

“They have raised the stake. Last year the fine for illegally performing Hajj without a permit was 50,000 riyals, but this time around, their message is 100,000 riyals, including deportation and being banned from the Kingdom for 10 years.

”So, please, I urge you to tell our people all this,” he said.

Over two million pilgrims are attending this year’s hajj in the Holy Land of Mecca, the Saudi authorities said.

CBN Recapitalization Puts 3m Jobs At Risk, As Over 1,500 BDC Set To Shut Down

By
James Orji
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0

Following their failure to meet the deadline set by the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, close to 1,500 Bureau de Change operators across the country are set to close shop, Leadership Newspapers reports.

According to the President of the Association of Bureau De Change Operators of Nigeria, ABCON, Aminu Gwadabe, only few BDCs operators met the deadline set by the apex bank, which ended on Tuesday, June 3, 2025.

Gwadabe said the one year window set by the CBN for the operators to meet the deadline was too short, noting that the consequence of the BDC shutting down operation because they failed to meet the recapitalization deadline is enormous including job losses to the economy as more than three million Nigerians directly or indirectly are se to lose their livelihoods.

The magazine reported that the Yemi cardoso-led CBN had last year directed tier one BDC and tier two BDC firms to recapitalize to the tune of N2 billion and N500 million, respectively.

Only five percent of the BDC have met the deadline which expired today, according to the ABCON President, who warned that many operators may be forced to operate outside the regulatory oversight of the apex bank in other to remain in business.

He said the CBN should have been more concerned by ensuring that the operators report their operations to the regulators rather than forcing them to embark on recapitalization exercise.

Gwadabe: “Not more than five per cent have met the financial requirements and leaving over 95 per cent struggling with extinction. With the current slow pace of compliance, it is only an extension for the eligible BDC’s that will enable them to participate in the new reforms or face revocation.

“The 2024 CBN new guidelines on recapitalisation of BDCs in Nigeria is one of the reforms that intends to upgrade capacity, corporate governance, and efficient reporting while aligning with AML/CFT standards. It is indeed a journey, not a destination.”

“The elephant in the room is job losses. Millions of Nigerians will lose their means of livelihood directly or indirectly within the sub-sector,” he said.

“It is our concern that unable BDCs might be pushed to operate outside the regulated space, where players enjoy lesser regulatory burdens. This threatens both transparency and national security.”

The CBN had in May 2024 directed the BDC to obtain new licenses within six months, to be able to continue to operate in the country. But later in November, the apex bank extended the deadline by six months which ist set to expire today.

Some Ministers, Security Chiefs Irrelevant, Should Be Sacked By Tinubu, Senator Kalu

By
Ayodele Oni
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Orji Uzor Kalu

By Ayodele Oni

The Senator representing Abia North, Orji Kalu, has urged President Bola Tinubu to carry out a realignment of his Government by sacking some ministers and Security Chiefs.

Kalu, a former Governor of Abia State, maintained that this becomes necessary because some of the appointees are no longer efficient and lack  impact on Nigeria’s development.

The Senator made the call in an interview with Channels Television on Monday.

Kalu, who stated that he had assessed Tinubu’s cabinet, urged the President to make “bold decisions” in order to realign his administration with the expectations of Nigerians.

“Some people working with President Tinubu should be relieved of their duties. Some of them should go – both from the security sector and among the ministers.

“President Tinubu must be courageous enough to sack some of these ministers. If he takes my advice – most of these ministers, I’ve appraised them and talked to him privately – most of them should go, and that is the truth.”

The lawmaker stated that some security chiefs should also be relieved of their duties over the level of insecurity in the country.

“If he takes my advice, some of the security chiefs will also go. There is no sentiment about redeeming Nigeria if we really want to relieve Nigeria.”

Gov Oyebanji Accuses BORBDA Of Sidelining Ekiti In Development

By
Ayodele Oni
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0
Biodun Oyebanji - Ekiti State Governor

By Ayodele Oni

Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has lamented that despite being one of the catchment areas, the state has not benefitted from programmes and activities of the Benin-Owena River Basin Development Authority, (BORBDA).

Governor Oyebanji  expressed dissatisfaction with BORBDA over its handling of development initiatives in the state, stressing that the state has made numerous attempts to collaborate with it on some projects.

The Governor, who stated this during a meeting with the new management of the Benin-Owena River Basin Development Authority led by the Managing Director/ Chief Executive Officer,  Olufemi Adekanmbi in Ado Ekiti, emphasized that the agency has not been fair to the state in its development drive.

Expressing his displeasure over what he described as lack of meaningful contribution from the authority to Ekiti development, the Governor emphasized that this has forced his administration to exclude the agency from its strategic development plan, stressing the need for a more effective and accountable approach in moving forward.

Oyebanji, who emphasized the importance of synergy between government agencies and stakeholders in driving sustainable development, urged the new leadership to ensure that their renewed commitment translates to meaningful actions and development in the state.

He also assured that his administration would collaborate with the authority provided there is a visible shift in its operations and engagement.

“I need to refresh our memories about our experience with Benin-Owena, they have not been fair to us, we have gained nothing from them.

“We have crafted our development strategy without you in our plan because every attempt to collaborate with you has been frustrated. We are investing massively in agriculture in the state and Benin-Owena has no contribution to it.

“However, I have read your speech, it shows that you want to do things differently but we have listened to beautiful speeches that didn’t translate to action, so for those project that are already in the budget concerning Ekiti State, whatever we can do to ensure that we fast track development, I am ready to do that.”

Earlier in his remarks, the Managing Director of the BORBDA , Dr Adekanmbi, who commended the Governor for the remarkable progress in the state particularly in agriculture sector, said the purpose of the meeting was to introduce the new leadership to the Governor, assess ongoing collaboration with the state government, as well as forge a strengthened pathway toward achieving the goal of the renewed hope agenda of President Boa Ahmed Tinubu, particularly in the area of food security.

Unveiling the agency’s comprehensive development blue print aimed at boosting agriculture, infrastructure, and youth empowerment in the state, the BORBDA CEO assured the Governor of a new dawn in the agency, noting that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was strategic with the appointment of right people into the board of the agency.

He listed various ongoin and proposed BORDA interventions across the state to include, flood contro projects in Ilupeju, Efon-Alaye, Ado-Ureje Road, Ikere-Ado/Osun Road as well as management of key dams in Apariko-Aisegba, Oye-Ayede, and Ado-Osin, among others.

Niger Flood: Obi Visits Scene Condoles Victims

By
The Source
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0
Peter Obi scene of Niger Flood

The 2023 Labour Party Presidential flagbearer Peter Obi on Monday paid a sympathy visit to Niger state over the tragic flood that claimed hundreds of lives.

Obi who was accompanied on the visit by the Acting National Chairman of the Labour Party, Dr Nenadi Usman, and the National Coordinator of the Obedient Movement, Dr Yunusa Tanko, visited the scene of the incident and consoled the affected families.

He also visited the Niger State Government House where he was received by the Deputy Governor of the state Alhaji Yakubu Garba.

Writing on X handle after the visit, Obi said, “Today, along with Senator Nenadi Usman and Dr Yunusa Tanko, I travelled to Niger State to condole and show solidarity with the Governor and the good people of the state over the devastating floods in the Mokwa area of Niger State.

“While in the UK yesterday, I had earlier called the governor, His Excellency, Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, to express my heartfelt condolences.

“While in Niger State, I was warmly received by the Deputy Governor, His Excellency Yakubu Garba, and we had a discussion about the urgent needs of the affected communities, where over 200 lives have been lost, about 1,000 persons are still missing, more than 3,000 people have been displaced from their homes, and several homes destroyed.

“As I mentioned during the visit, this incident and others happening all over Nigeria affect us all, and as a family, we must come together to care, comfort and stand together, especially in times of grief and difficulty.

“I hereby urge and appeal to the Federal Government, all support agencies, and well-meaning Nigerians to assist the good people of Niger State in ameliorating their suffering.

“I also wish to commend the efforts of the Governor and the local response teams for their courage and resilience in the face of this overwhelming challenge.

“As part of my commitment to stand with the people of Niger State during this difficult time, I made an initial donation of ₦20 million to support the effort of the government and I will continue to support their effort.

“I pray that God comforts the families of those who have lost their loved ones, protects those still missing, and grants healing and strength to everyone affected by this disaster. May Niger State find peace and restoration.

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