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Police Rescues 18 Trafficked Children, Arrests Killers Of Delta DPO Hassan Jega

By
Suleiman Anyalewechi
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Police Officer

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Nigerian Police on Monday January 6, 2025, said it has apprehended the suspected killers of a Delta State Divisional Police Officer, DPO.

The Source reports that Hassan Jega, on October 14, 2024, lost his life while trying, alongside his men, to repel an armed robbery operation in the Agharho area of Delta state .

A statement from the Force Public Relations Officer, FPRO, Muyiwa Adejobi, informed that the suspect, one Ogaga Dickson, was arrested by the operatives of the FID-IRT, after a gruelling  gun battle with his gang members

According to the Police spokesperson, the exchange of gunfire followed the storming of the criminal group’s  den by operatives.

“The operatives had earlier stormed the gang’s den and engaged them in a fierce gun duel leading to the neutralization of four gang members.

Upon Ogaga’s arrest, the police recovered one AK-47 riffle, one English pistol ,one locally made pistol, ammunition of various calibres, and six exotic vehicles.

In another development, the FPRO, also, announced the dismantling of a notorious child trafficking syndicate in Jos, Plateau State.

In the course of its operations ,Adejobi noted that no fewer than five trafficked victims, aged between two and four years were rescued.

Similarly, operatives were able to apprehend the head of the trafficking syndicate one Pastor  Dayo Bernard and other members.

“The operation led to the rescue of five children between the ages of 2 and 4, abducted from various homes in Jos, Plateau State, and the arrest of other members of syndicate identified as Rita Agboeze “f” ,Victoria Ugwu (f),Naman Puntel (f), and Peter Ukwuani (m).

Upon interrogation, the principal suspect confessed to having abducted and sold 13 children at varying prices all of whom have been recovered by the police and reunited with their families through the Plateau State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development,” the FPRO stated.

All arrested suspects, Adejobi assured, will be prosecuted as soon as  investigations are concluded.

Police Move In As Unknown Persons Kill Three Anambra Siblings

By
Suleiman Anyalewechi
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Nigerian Police

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The children, including a two and six year old were tied up, mouths sealed, and gruesomely killed

The Anambra State Police Command is again,  battling to unravel the actual circumstances surrounding the  gruesome murder of three siblings in Nise, Awka South Local Government of the State

Tochukwu  Ikenga, spokesperson for the Command on Monday, January 6, 2025, said though operatives have taken over the scene of the gory incident, they are still not in possession of the details of the sad situation

According to some eyewitness accounts, the incident occurred on Saturday January 4, 2025, with the three  boys of the same parents killed and dumped inside their father’s vehicle in his compound. Their hands were tied, and their mouths sealed to stop them anybody from hearing their screams.

The assailants were said to have scaled the  fence of the compound of the father of the three boys- a native doctor, before carrying out the dastardly act .

This Magazine gathered that the parents of the children were not at home as at the time the incident took place.

” I think what happened was that those behind the ugly development may have taken their time to monitor the movement of the parents.

The parents usually leave the children at home when going to the farm or any other place .But they normally lock them inside the compound.

The children were discovered,  lifeless ,inside their father’s vehicle a Mercedes Benz, which was splashed with blood,” a witness volunteered .

However, it is not yet clear what must have caused the targeting of the three innocent children.

But not a few are of the strong belief that the incident may not be completely divorced from a case of a transaction gone awry.

“You see the children’s father is a native doctor with some “clients”, or if like patients from different backgrounds.

“In this case, you cannot rule out completely, the possibilities of unkept promises or something close. Otherwise, I don’t see any reasons  for a normal human being to simply go after such innocent children”, another witness stated.

The State’s Police Command Spokesman, while reacting to the development, informed that operatives have  moved in to conduct a comprehensive inquest.

He noted that the bodies of the victims have been evacuated while investigations are underway.

The Police, according to  him, will make the outcome of the probe public as soon as the process is completed.

Press Freedom: INTERPOL Summons Ibadan-Based Journalist, Peter Olasupo

By
James Orji
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Journalist Olasupo

International Criminal Police Organization, INTERPOL has summoned an-Ibadan based journalist, Peter Olasupo over cyber-stalking and criminal defamation allegations.

Olasupo has therefore been directed to report at the Nigerian Police Force, NPF, headquarters in Abuja, Nigeria.

The journalist made the revelation on his Facebook page, saying he’s still unawares of the allegation against him, wondering why he has been summoned without the police giving details of what he has been accused of.

The development comes on the heels of criticisms of media harassment against the federal government, which critics described as apart of the reported plan by those in authority to stiffen free speech.

According to Olasupo, the police had in a letter sent to his office on December 0, requested that he made himself available at the Force Headquarters on January 13, 2025.

He wrote on Facebook, “I recently received a letter with the headline Investigation Activities/Invitation Letter from the International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL), informing me of an investigation into allegations of Criminal Defamation and Cyberstalking involving me. They requested that I report to INTERPOL Headquarters at Force Headquarters, Shehu Shagari Way, Garki, Abuja, on Monday, 30th December 2024, at 11:00 AM in furtherance of the investigation.

“Upon receiving the letter through my boss, my boss immediately contacted our able lawyer Barr. Yomi Ogunlola, who responded on my behalf, resulting in a rescheduled appearance date of Monday, 13th January 2025.

“Now, I have so many questions: Who reported me to INTERPOL? Why INTERPOL? Who is defaming who? And who is cyberstalking who? My Lord, I am innocent of these allegations.

“At the moment, I don’t have full details of the matter, but I will present myself at their office and fully cooperate with INTERPOL’s investigation into the alleged case. However, I am curious— why must I report to the Abuja office? Why can’t I report to the Nigeria Police Headquarters at the Oyo State Command, Eleyele, Ibadan, or even their Lagos office, which would be easier for me to reach by train?

“INTERPOL, if you truly want to facilitate this process, shouldn’t you at least provide travel allowances? Or will you use police helicopter to carry me? Traveling by air is costly these days, and traveling by road has its risks. Yet, here I am being summoned to Abuja. Nonetheless, I will do what is required.

“To my fans, please know that this will not affect my dedication to doing the right thing or my professionalism, which you all know me for. I remain committed to speaking the truth to those in power”.

Shirley Ewang, a Lead Advocacy at Gatefied, had recently condemned the arrest of journalists by state actors, saying press freedom is under threat, claiming that 70 journalists were arrested in 2024 alone on various charges.

Ondo Cult Clash: APC Chieftain, Mother, Child Shot Dead In Owo

By
Ayodele Oni
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Gunmen

By Ayodele Oni

Early morning sporadic gun shots emanating from an alleged cult clash in Owo, Ondo State, has led to the death of four persons.  Several others sustained various degrees of injuries.

Those confirmed dead include a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, (APC), Fisayo Oladipo and three others that were shot dead in Owo by unknown gunmen suspected to be some cult members.

Others are a mother and her child who were shot on the roadside by a stray bullet during   a reprisal attack.

It was gathered that the ugly event was said to have occurred at around 2:00am on Monday when the gunmen stormed his house in Owo to perpetrate the evil act as confirmed by eyewitness

Already, the entire ancient town is gripped by fear as the clash, which started at a section of the town is spreading.

Eyewitnesses reveal that the violence is also traced to a long time feud which dates back to over a decade, during which several residents lost their lives in gang clashes.

It was revealed that only on Sunday, a 52-year-old man, Fisayo Oladipupo, was reportedly shot by unknown assailants, an incident which stemmed from unresolved disputes lingering for over a decade.

The source explained that “The man killed on Sunday knew his attacker, and that may have led to his death.

“Fifteen years ago, the father’s house of the alleged attacker was set ablaze by local youths. In a retaliatory act, the father’s house of the victim was torched on Monday, 6 January.”

In a viral video, a yet-to-be-identified man was seen lying lifeless on the road as residents fled for safety.

The remains of Mr Oladipupo have been deposited at the morgue of the Federal Medical Centre in Owo.

Another source stated that the deceased,  a former youth leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) was reportedly shot dead by unidentified gunmen.

The source said sporadic gunshots have rented the air following the killing of the party Chieftain.

“We thank God that students are not around because we have been hearing gunshots after it was heard that the former youth has been killed early this morning.

”The incident has thrown the community into mourning, with residents and party members expressing grief and concern over the growing insecurity in the area.”

Reacting to the incident, Ondo State Police Command spokesman, Funmilayo Ibklam, stated that: “We can’t confirm if an APC chieftain is affected, but four people have been confirmed dead.

“Normalcy has returned through the intervention of the Police, efforts are on to arrest perpetrators of the act.”

Kebbi: Gov. Idris Releases N585m Tuition Fees For Indigenes Studying In India

By
Ayodele Oni
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Nasir Idris - Governor of Kebbi State

By Ayodele Oni

Kebbi State Governor, Nasir Idris, has approved the release of N585 million for the payment of tuition fees of 100 State indigenes studying in various universities in India.

The State Commissioner for Higher Education, Isa Abubakar-Tunga disclosed this while briefing Journalists in Birnin Kebbi on Monday.

He said: “The Kebbi State Government under the able leadership of His Excellency, Comrade Dr Nasir Idris, the Education Promoter, has approved and released N585,416,690:00 for the payment of Tuition Fees of 100 students indigenes of Kebbi State  studying in various universities in India.

“The Ministry of Higher Education remains indebted to His Excellency. No doubt, the Governor’s efforts towards promoting academic and moral excellence in the tertiary education shall go into the annals of history.”

The commissioner appealed to the entire citizens of Kebbi State to consistently pray for the continued success of the present administration under the good leadership of the governor.

The state government had last year announced intervention in the plight of some Indigenes of the state studying in various universities abroad.

Some of them, according to report were on the verge of being sent back home due to inability to pay their tuition fees and take care of themselves.

The government thereafter constituted a committee to take census of those affected and the cost implication.

Bauchi Opposition Calls For The Rejection, Repeal Of 2025 Budget

By
Suleiman Anyalewechi
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Bala Mohammed - Governor of Bauchi State
Governor Bala Mohammad

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

Citing alleged cases of misallocation of public funds,  the opposition Peoples Redemption Party, PRP, in Bauchi State, has called for the repeal of the State’s 2025 appropriation law, as passed and assented to by the House of Assembly and the Governor.

The Source reports that the State Governor, Bala Muhammed, had,  on Thursday November 20, 2024, presented  to the Bauchi State House of Assembly,  a N465 billion budget proposal.

However, the State’s  Lawmakers approved N467 billion estimate ,which was subsequently signed into law  by Governor Muhammad on December 27 ,2024.

But in a statement on Monday, January 6, 2025, by its Secretary, Wada Abdullahi , the Bauchi State Chapter of the PRP, urged the State Legislators to abrogate the appropriation law .

According to the party, not a few Bauchi  residents and citizens are seriously embarrassed and dissatisfied with some identified misallocation of funds in the approved budgetary estimate.

It described as outrageous and totally absurd, the allocation of over N39 million for the procurement of just two motorcycles .

The PRP ,particularly, referenced the allocation of N4.2 million budgeted for the purchase of two sets of computers, N 2.45 million for two printers and about N7 million for three photocopying machines .

Before its latest public outing, the party ,as well as other concerned citizens had last week queried the rationale behind the approval of over N3 billion for the Governor’s traveling expenses for the year .

However ,it noted that it is not all that surprised as the development appears to be in sync with the reckless spending, corruption, embezzlement and greed that have so far characterized the present Peoples Democratic Party, PDP-led administration in the state .

“The Peoples Redemption Party PRP, Bauchi State Chapter, strongly, condemns the 2025 budget signed into law by the Bauchi State Government ,led by the Peoples Democratic Party PDP .

“The budget is a direct reflection of the party’s governance style characterized by reckless spending, corruption ,embezzlement and greed

“It is appalling to see that Bauchi State Government is prepared to spend an outrageous N39.6 on just two motorcycles .

“This absurd allocation of funds ,no doubt inflated well beyond market value ,raises serious questions about the integrity of budgetary processes in our state .

“Further ,compounding this gross misallocation ,the budget also includes N 4.2 million for two desktop computers ,N2.450,000 for two printers and an astonishing N7 million for mere three photocopiers .

“This wasteful expenditure, totaling a staggering N 53.25 million for items that can be procured for a fraction of this cost is not just a misjudgment, it is an egregious example of the corruption and greed that has become synonymous with the PDP-led administration in Bauchi state

“Such financial imprudence is a direct reflection of how the Government is being run- prioritizing personal gain over the pressing needs of the populace

“This. budget is a slap on the face of the good people of Bauchi state ,who are struggling to make ends meet .It is a clear indication that the PDP-led Government is more interested in lining the pockets of its cronies than in providing basic amenities and services to the people .

“We are concerned that either the State House of Assembly did not diligently scrutinize the budget and or that there may be a collusion among certain individuals to misappropriate resources meant for the people of Bauchi state”, part of the statement reads .

To this end ,the party has insisted that the only way the state Lawmakers could exonerate themselves from the budgetary heist is for them to immediately put machineries in motion for its abrogation.

The party called for a new appropriation bill that is genuinely transparent, just, and grounded in realistic financial planning.

This is even as the party urged the citizens to collectively rise up against any attempts to fleece the Treasury of the state by unscrupulous political actors.

Breaking Barriers: Umma Abdullahi Is Northern Nigeria’s First Female Professor of Mechanical Engineering

By
The Source
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Umma Abdullahi - First Female Professor of Mechanical Engineering

By  Lamara Garba

In a historic feat that has sent waves of inspiration throughout the academic community, Prof. Umma Abdullahi, has become the first female Professor of Mechanical Engineering in Northern Nigeria.

Professor Umma, who is now in her mid-40’s was amongst the 66 Senior Academics recently promoted to the esteemed rank of Professor as approved by the Management of Bayero University, Kano.

This remarkable achievement is a demonstration to her dogged dedication, unrelenting passion, and unshakeable resolve to defy the odds and shatter the glass ceiling in a male-dominated field.

Born and raised in Sharfadi quarters in the heart of Kano Municipality, Prof. Abdullahi’s journey to the pinnacle of academic success is a story of sheer providence, perseverance, and determination.

Initially after completing her Remedial Science Programme, she had applied to study Geography, but fate had other plans. She ended up in Mechanical Engineering, a field that would become her passion and ultimately, her claim to fame.

A 2005 graduate and a mother six, Prof. Umma’s achievement is remarkable. She has had to navigate the challenges of balancing family life as a house wife with the demands of a rigorous academic career. Despite the obstacles, she remained focused, driven by a fierce determination to succeed.

Prof. Abdullahi’s rise to the top is a beacon of hope for women and girls everywhere, particularly in Northern Nigeria, where cultural and societal norms often limit their opportunities.

Interestingly, Umma is the last born in afamily of 21; her achievement is a powerful reminder that with hard work, determination, and a refusal to accept the status quo, anything is possible.

As the first female Professor of Mechanical Engineering in Northern Nigeria, Prof. Umma Abdullahi is an inspiration to her students, colleagues, and the wider community. While pursuing her PhD at Islamic University in Malaysia, Umma was able to finish her program within just 24 months, a record that has not been attained in the past 30 years. Her achievement is a manifestation to the power of education to transform lives and challenge societal norms.

Prof. Abdullahi’s historic achievement is not just a personal triumph; it is also a victory for women’s empowerment and a celebration of the boundless potential of the human spirit. As she continues to blaze a trail in her field, she will undoubtedly inspire a new generation of women and girls to pursue careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).

In a region where women’s participation in STEM fields is often limited, Prof. Abdullahi’s achievement is a game-changer. She is a role model, a mentor, and a shining example of what can be achieved with dedication, perseverance, and a passion for learning.

As Prof. Abdullahi looks to the future, she remains committed to inspiring and empowering the next generation of women in STEM. Her legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire and motivate, challenging societal norms and pushing the boundaries of what is possible.

Speaking shortly after receiving the letter of promotion, Umma Abdullahi expressed gratitude to her parents and siblings as well as her beloved husband who is also an academic whose support financially and psychologically was instrumental to her success.

Garba is Deputy Registrar/Head, Public Affairs Directorate, Bayero University, Kano

Sokoto State SSG Loses Daughter, Three Grandchildren To Fire Outbreak

By
Akinwale Kasali
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Mohammed Bello Sifawa Loses Daughter

By Akinwale Kasali

Mohammed Bello Sifawa, Secretary to the Sokoto State Government is mourning the tragic death of his Daughter and  three Grandchildren following a fire incident that occurred in their home Monday morning.

The late Sifawa’s daughter was the wife to the Permanent Secretary Ministry of Sports and Youths Development, Alhaji Muhammadu Yusuf Bello.

The inferno occurred in the wee hours of the morning and engulfed the entire house while the family members were sleeping. Their husband and father was the only survivor.

As at the filing in of this report, the cause of the fire was still under investigation.  Men of the Sokoto State Fire Service battled for hours before they brought the fire down.

The remains of the deceased housewife and her children will be interred at Sheikh Shehu Usmanu Danfodiyo Mosque Sifawa today at the family home of the SSG who is  father to the deceased housewife.

Idris Mohammed Gobir, Sokoto State Deputy Governor, Members of the state Executive Council, APC stalwarts, friends and well-wishers have been trooping to Sifawa’s to commiserate with him over his heart- breaking losses.

Popular Socialite, Cash Madam Dies At Age 89

By
Akinwale Kasali
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2
Khadijat Adebisi Edionseri popular as Cash Madam

By Akinwale Kasali

Khadijat Adebisi Edionseri, popular as Cash Madam is dead.

The popular Ogun State born socialite and businesswoman who became popular for over six decades due to her charity lifestyle, died in Abeokuta, her hometown.

According to a release by the family on Monday, Cash Madam who passed on yesterday evening, would be laid to rest at her residence in Abeokuta, by 4.00pm today, according to Islamic rites.

The statement reads: “With deep gratitude to Allah for a life well-lived, we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Princess Kadijat Abike Adebisi Edionseri (née Elegbede), who returned to her Creator on 5th January 2025 at the age of 89, following a brief illness.

“Her life was a shining example of grace, dignity, and unwavering faith. Princess Edionseri touched the lives of many through her wisdom, kindness, and dedication to both her family and her community. She taught us the importance of love, resilience, and faith in Allah, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire generations.

“As we grieve this monumental loss, we also celebrate the remarkable life she lived. Her laughter, warmth, and the values she instilled will forever remain in our hearts, guiding us as we navigate life without her physical presence.

“The funeral will take place according to Islamic rites on Monday, 6th January 2025, at 4:00 PM at her residence in Abeokuta GRA.”

It would be recalled that the deceased had assisted many who had financial troubles including late Ayinla Omowura, after he had an auto crash that could have resulted in the amputation of his legs.

Assassination Attempt On Kaduna Senator: APC, PDP, Trade Tackles

By
Suleiman Anyalewechi
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Senator Lawal Adamu Usman

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The All Progressive Congress APC, Kaduna State Chapter, has strongly distanced itself from the alleged assassination attempt on the Senator representing Kaduna Central District at the National Assembly, Lawal Adamu Usman.

The Source reports that Senator Usman was, allegedly, attacked by suspected hoodlums on New Year’s day within his Constituency.

A statement issued on Friday January, 3, 2025, by the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, spokesperson in Kaduna Chapter, Hon. Maria Dogo, informed that Senator Usman was attacked while inspecting some ongoing constituency projects in the Kaduna North Local Council.

While condemning the incident, the Party demanded  a comprehensive inquest to unravel the real  circumstances surrounding the development.

Expectedly, the PDP in its statement, insinuated the suspected involvement of the APC in the incident, insisting that it will not sit by idly and watch while the lives of its elected representatives are threatened.

The party, also, cautioned against any resort to violent methods other than the ballot in pursuing political interests in the State.

“The PDP demands an immediate investigation into this matter as well as the arrest and prosecution of the assailants and their sponsors.

“We, also, urge reinforced security measures for our elected representatives and their families.

“We emphasize that the PDP will not stand idly by while the lives of our elected representatives are threatened or taken.

“The ballot, not violence is the only accepted means of transferring power. Instead of  resorting to violence ,people  should focus on implementing meaningful initiatives and programmes in the Senatorial Zone that will  earn their parties  goodwill among the people.

“We call on our party members and all well meaning citizens of Kaduna Central Senatorial Zone to remain calm and peaceful while we pursue all legal means to bring those responsible for the attempt on Senator Us man’s life to Justice”,the PDP statement reads in part .

But in a statement on Saturday, APC’s Kaduna  Chapter Secretary, Yahaya Baba, cautioned PDP to desist from tarnishing its reputation.

According to the APC, rather than making unfounded and baseless allegations, the PDP should apply itself more to the task of playing a responsible opposition role.

The ruling party in the State, informed that information reaching it indicates that the PDP and Senator Usman are yet to  file official complaints before the police.

Similarly, the APC accused the Senator of so far not cooperating with security agencies in  their ongoing investigation into the matter.

“Despite repeated  attempts by the police to reach him (Senator Usman), he remains unresponsive.

“It is, therefore, baffling how the PDP arrived at its baseless conclusion implicating the APC in this alleged incident.

“We call on Senator Usman and the PDP to cooperate fully with the police investigation.  Failure to do so would lend credence to suspicions that the alleged assassination attempt is nothing more than a fabrication aimed at maligning the APC creating unnecessary tension and derailing the peace and progress currently being enjoyed in Kaduna state.

The APC strongly suspects that certain conflicts entrepreneurs are using the PDP to disrupt the remarkable strides achieved under the peace initiatives of Senator Uba Sani’s people-focused and inclusive administration”, the APC stated .

Furthermore, the APC accused its rival, “of developing a disturbing reputation for issuing ill-conceived and patently false statements ,undermining the seriousness of public discourse.

“This reckless behaviour highlights the party’s deteriorating  standards with critical matters being handled without due diligence or proper scrutiny” Baba noted.

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