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FG Lifts Ban On Mining Operations In Zamfara

December 22, 2024

By Ayodele Oni

Following improved security, the Federal Government has lifted the ban on mining exploration activities in Zamfara State, citing significant improvements in the security situation across the state.

This is coming after more than five years of embargo on mining activities in the state, occasioned by insecurity.

The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, who spoke at a news conference in Abuja, stated that the nation has a lot to gain from reawakened economic activities in a highly mineralised state like Zamfara that is imbued with vast gold, Lithium, and copper belts.

He noted that the previous ban, which was good intentioned, inadvertently created a vacuum exploited by illegal miners to fleece the nation of its resources, emphasizing that the state’s potential for contributing to national revenue is enormous.

In 2019, the federal government imposed a total ban on mining activities in Zamfara State due to the escalating security concerns, particularly the links between banditry and illegal mining.

Since the beginning of the Tinubu administration, however, intelligence-driven, coordinated security operations have resulted in the neutralization of key bandit commanders, significantly reducing incidents of insecurity.

A recent success was the capture of one of the most wanted bandit commanders, Halilu Sububu, in a covert operation in Zamfara.

“The existential threat to lives and properties that led to the 2019 ban has abated. The security operatives’ giant strides have led to a notable reduction in the level of insecurity, and with the ban on exploration lifted, Zamfara’s mining sector can gradually begin contributing to the nation’s revenue pool.”

The minister added that the lifting of the ban would also facilitate better regulation of mining activities in the state.

“This will enable more effective intelligence gathering to combat illegal mining and ensure the country benefits from the state’s rich mineral resources.”

On the recent controversy surrounding the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with France, Alake reaffirmed the Federal Government’s position that the agreement does not imply Nigeria is relinquishing control over its mineral resources or entering into any military pact with France.

He pointed out that Nigeria’s military remains fully capable of safeguarding the nation’s territorial integrity.

“The high point of the MOU is on training and capacity building for our mining professionals. We need all the assistance we can get in terms of capacity, technical, and financial support from abroad, and that wasn’t even the first we are signing.

“We’ve signed similar ones with Germany and Australia. Deliberate peddling of misinformation, despite facts to the contrary, is uncalled for.”

Looking ahead to 2025, the minister hinted at upcoming policy initiatives aimed at revitalizing the mining sector.

According to him, the ministry plans to further consolidate reforms, enhance the enabling environment for investments, and continue efforts to reposition the sector for long-term, sustainable growth.

IGP Wades Into Death Of 35 Years Old Man Hours After Arrest

Ayodele Oni

December 22, 2024

Jimoh Abdulquadr - 35-year-old died in Police custody

By Ayodele Oni

The Kwara State Police Command has initiated an investigation into the sudden death of a 35-year-old man, Jimoh Abdulquadri, who died in custody in Ilorin last Friday.

Jimoh, a native of the Balogun Fulani community in Erubu/Asunnara, Ilorin, was reportedly arrested on December 19 for allegedly owing N220,000 to an individual identified as Peter. His death occurred less than 48 hours after his arrest and detention.

Family members of the deceased, including his mother, Mrs. Adijat Moriyike, and elder brother, Ismail, allege that Jimoh, popularly known as “Van de Sar,” was tortured to death as they claim his body showed signs of physical assault, with blood reportedly oozing from his nose and visible bruises.

According to Ismail, the family had already begun making arrangements to settle the debt before the tragic incident.

“My brother was arrested at around 5:30 pm on December 19 with his phone and N350,000 in cash. By 7:30 pm the next day, he was dead.

“We were called after midnight to come and bail him, but when we arrived at the police headquarters, they directed us to the General Hospital, Surulere, where we found his body in the mortuary.”

He further alleged that Jimoh’s injuries, including a swollen face and blood-stained body, contradicted police claims that he hanged himself in his cell.

The family believes Jimoh’s alleged creditor, an elder brother of a police officer, had influenced the handling of the case.

“The creditor instructed his younger brother, who is a police officer, to torture my brother. The evidence on his body shows he was beaten to death.”

Responding to the incident, the Kwara State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Toun Ejire-Adeyemi, confirmed Jimoh’s death and stated that investigations were underway.

“The Kwara State Police Command is aware of the unfortunate incident that led to the tragic loss of Mr. Jimoh Abdulquadri on December 20, 2024. He was invited on an alleged case of obtaining money by false pretence to the sum of N220,000.

Discreet investigations into this incident have commenced to ascertain the cause. Further developments will be communicated as the investigation progresses.”

The family, however, has expressed concerns over a potential cover-up and urged relevant authorities to ensure a transparent investigation.

Meanwhile, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered the Force Criminal Investigations Department (FCID) to take over the investigation into the death of Jimoh Abdulquadri, who passed away while in police detention in Kwara State on Friday, December 20, 2024.

In a demonstration of his commitment to justice and accountability, the IGP visited Kwara State on Sunday to meet with the bereaved family of the deceased.

He was received by the Balogun Fulani of Ilorin, Alhaji Sadiq Atiku Fulani, who spoke on behalf of the family.

“The IGP expressed his profound condolences to the family and assured them that no stone would be left unturned in uncovering the circumstances that led to this tragic incident,” said ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, Force Public Relations Officer.

“The IGP has instructed the FCID to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation into the matter.

“He further reiterated the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to upholding the highest standards of accountability, professionalism, and respect for human rights.

“While reiterating the Force’s zero-tolerance stance on unprofessional conduct among its personnel, the IGP called on all stakeholders to remain calm and allow the due process in handling the issue.”

Falana Says Recent Stampede Caused By Poverty, Criminal Negligence

Akinwale Kasali

December 22, 2024

By Akinwale Kasali

Femi Falana, SAN, has described the loss of over 105 lives in stampede during food and cash distribution events in Nigeria as tragic, pathetic and disheartening.

Falana attributed the tragic incidents to “poverty-induced neoliberal economic policies” and “criminal negligence.”

A statement by Falana on Sunday, under the auspices Alliance on Surviving COVID-19 and Beyond. ASCAB, detailed the incidents and called for justice.

Falana who is the Chairman of the Group said that these tragic events are a national shame.

“The victims were not just statistics but human beings driven to desperation by systemic poverty and the gross incompetence of those entrusted with their safety.

“It would be recalled that on December 21, 2024. In Okija, Anambra State, 12 people died, and 32 others were injured during a scramble for rice distributed by a philanthropist. On the same day, a stampede at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Maitama, Abuja, claimed 10 lives, including children, as over 3,000 people jostled for palliatives.

“On the 19th, December, 2024, over 34 children were crushed to death at a Christmas funfair in Ibadan, Oyo State.

“The tragedy unfolded as the event began at Islamic High School, Basorun. “The loss of these innocent lives is heart-wrenching,” Falana said. “It underscores the indignity that poverty imposes on our people.”

“In April 2024, nine people died in Sokoto at the residence of former governor Aliyu Wamakko during a chaotic palliative distribution. Similarly, in March 2024, seven people, including an eight-year-old girl, lost their lives at a charity event in Bauchi where ₦5,000 cash gifts were being distributed. Days earlier, two students died and 23 were injured during a state government palliative distribution at Nasarawa State University, Keffi.”

Falana criticised the elite for their treatment of the poor during such events. “No member of the elite invites others to lunch by throwing the food,” he remarked, condemning what he described as “class prejudice” in humanitarian aid distribution.

The Alliance on Surviving COVID-19 and Beyond announced plans to mobilise lawyers to pursue civil suits against organisers of these events. “We will ensure survivors and families of the deceased are adequately compensated,” Falana said.

“Those responsible for these avoidable tragedies must be held accountable.”

He also called on the government to take decisive action to prevent further loss of lives.

“Enough is enough!” he declared. “These events reflect the harsh realities of inequality in our nation and the urgent need for systemic reforms to protect the dignity and lives of our citizens.”

Falana’s outburst over this national shame and embarrassment has brought to fore a rallying cry for justice and reform, spotlighting Nigeria’s deepening poverty crisis, which needs urgent attention.

IPOB: Finnish Govt Freezes Simon Ekpa’s Accounts, Assets

James Orji

December 22, 2024

Barely a month after the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB agitator, Simon Ekpa was arrested by the Finnish government his assets have been frozen as part of the on-going investigation on his alleged involvement in terrorism.

Recall that Ekpa was arrested alongside four others on 21 November on suspicion of terrorist activities in Nigeria.

His trial, the Finland government said will begin next year.

According to a Finnish newspaper, Keskusrikospoliisi, KRP, which is the Finnish name for the National Bureau of Investigation, has frozen Ekpa’s assets and those of other suspects.

“The KRP has frozen the assets of Simon Ekpa and other suspects in terrorist crimes, as well as associations and companies associated with them,” the report said.

The Finnish police said he allegedly committed the crimes between 23 August 2021 and 18 November 2024 in Lahti, a town in Finland.

Ibadan, Okija, Abuja Stampede: My Heart Bleeds – Peter Obi Mourns

Suleiman Anyalewechi

December 22, 2024

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

Amidst the unfortunate stampede that claimed no fewer than 18 lives in Okija Anambra state on Saturday morning, Peter Obi, the Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party, LP, in the 2023 general elections has expressed dismay over the worsening plight of the people.

The Source reports that another event to share Christmas palliatives in the face of the present harsh economic realities in Okija ,Anambra state all ended tragically.

Thousands of locals had gathered to receive a yearly Christmas package from a philanthropist Chief Ernest Obiejesi through his Obi Foundation, but poor crowd control and desperation on the part of the supposed beneficiaries combined to cause a stampede .

Apart from the dead, several others were said to have sustained serious injuries

The Source reports that the sad incident came on the heels of the Ibadan stampede earlier in the week with about 35 people, mostly children confirmed dead.

Reacting to the Okija, Ibadan and Abuja tragic stampedes, Obi, a former Governor of Anambra state, regretted that unmitigated poverty has pushed many Nigerians into an unfortunate State, that they now place more premium on the search for food than on their lives.

The Source further reports that same, Saturday, December 21, over 10 persons also lost their lives in yet another stampede that occurred during the sharing of Christmas palliatives at an Abuja Church.

Writing on his official site on the three harrowing stampede in Ibadan, Okija, and Abuja on Saturday, Obi noted that the desperation of the people is a direct consequence of the excruciating economic situation in the country.

“I am deeply saddened and distressed by the tragic loss of lives ,in desperate searches for food .

“A few days ago ,about 35 people ,mostly children lost their lives in a stampede at a Christmas Funfair in Ibadan, Oyo state.

“This morning (Saturday December 21,2024), reports emerged of, at least, 10. people losing their lives in Abuja while scrambling for palliatives ,with many others injured .

“Now, I just heard that about 19 more lives were lost in another stampede in Okija, Anambra State as people struggled to receive food items.

While I will not cast blame but appreciate the organizers of these respective events for their kind gestures in providing palliatives and support to society, especially the poor ,these tragedies reflect the systemic failures that plague our society

“The desperate quest for survival in these harsh economic times ,has driven our people to extremes in their search for food ,often at cost of their lives .

“How do we explain that in a nation blessed with abundant resources our people.are dying of hunger in such numbers ?

“How is it possible that we cannot feed our citizens despite the vast ,fertile lands our nation is endowed with ? My heart bleeds.

“One can imagine the pain their families are enduring at this moment .My heart goes out to them .

“I sincerely commiserate with all the affected families and the good people of Oyo ,Anambra and FCT over these tragic incidents .

“May God grant them and all of us the strength to bear these painful losses,” Obi stated.

Police Confirms 22 Deaths In Okija, Anambra State Stampede

Suleiman Anyalewechi

December 22, 2024

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Anambra State Police on Sunday December 22, 2024, confirmed that 22 persons lost their lives in the stampede that resulted from the sharing of Christmas palliatives in Okija, Ihiala Local Council of Anambra state on Saturday.

The Source reports that thousand of residents from some communities within Okija and outside had trooped out to partake in the Christmas gesture being powered by Obi Jackson Foundation, owned by Oil magnate, Chief Ernest Obiejesi.

Unfortunately, the yearly ritual, owing to poor crowd control and alleged desperation on the part of the people turned sour.

A statement issued by the Command spokesperson Tochukwu Ikenga, also noted that several injuries were recorded. He was, however, not specific on the number of persons involved.

According to Ikenga, the State Commissioner of Police, Nnaghe Obono Itam, has visited the medical facilities where the injured are currently receiving attention.

“CP Nnaghe Obono Itam, visited the hospital where the victims of the tragic stampede that occurred on 21/12/2024 in Okija, Ihiala Local Government Area, are receiving treatment and regrettably, stated that twenty two ( 22) people lost their lives”, the Police stated.

The Police spokesman further informed that a full scale investigation has commenced with a view to ascertaining the actual circumstances that led to the sad development.

Meanwhile, the Command has reaffirmed its commitment towards providing adequate security before ,during, and after the festive season, with emphasis on the protection of vulnerable groups and residents.

NPF Faults Amnesty International Claims On Killings, IGP Orders Investigation Of Claims

Ayodele Oni

December 22, 2024

By Ayodele Oni

The Nigeria Police Force has faulted the claims by Amnesty International on alleged claims that the Nigeria Police is involved in the killing of, at least, 24 persons in six northern states during the Nationwide endbadgovernment protests in August.

In its 28th of November 2024, report titled “Bloody August: Nigeria Government’s Violent Crackdown on #EndBadGovernance Protests,” alleged that the Nigeria Police, involved in the killing of at least 24 persons in six northern states during the protests.

Briefing Journalists on Sunday at the Force Headquarters in Abuja, the Force Public Relations Office, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi noted that this report was at variance with the records available to the Nigeria Police.

ACP Adejobi pointed out that all recorded incidents of violence during the protests were documented by the Police in all 36 states of the Federation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

“These records are available at both the Department of Operations and the Department of Research and Planning of the Nigeria Police Force. It is, therefore, surprising to see in Amnesty International’s report such unfounded claims that contradicted what was actually recorded during the protests.”

The Force spokesman noted that notwithstanding, the Inspector-General of Police, in response to the allegations contained in the report, directed a comprehensive and independent investigation into these claims.

He explained that to this end, a special investigation panel was immediately constituted and given a deadline to submit its findings. The IGP also mandated Commissioners of Police in the states mentioned in the report to verify the allegations as they pertain to their states and to submit additional reports on the incidents.

ACP Adejobi revealed also that following these directives, the Commissioners of Police in the affected states conducted extensive inquiries in their localities and submitted their findings to the Inspector-General of Police. Copies of these findings were sent to the special investigation panel.

“Furthermore, members of the panel visited the affected states and areas mentioned in the report, compiling their findings in a comprehensive document submitted to the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun.

“The report released by Amnesty International on the End Bad Governance Protest in Nigeria, is inaccurate and misleading. All international organizations that are independent of political and economic interest are required by ethical and international best practices to demonstrate objectivity, fairness and balance in their reportage. Unfortunately, these qualities were missing in the Amnesty International report.

“The Nigeria Police Force in this present dispensation under the leadership of IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun has demonstrated high level of professionalism in Public Order Management across the Country. Our Standard operating procedure with respect to peaceful public protest, is to provide security for peaceful protesters to conduct their protest unmolested by opposing group, miscreants and criminal elements.

“Most importantly, our commitment is to ensure that peaceful protests do not turn violent or endanger the lives and properties of other law-abiding citizens. Where Protesters begin to loot, burn, pillage property and kill innocent citizen including Law Enforcement Agents, the Police are duty bound to halt the drift into anarchy using minimum force.

“The decision by the United Nations Human Rights Council, has been the gold standard for the Nigeria Police Force and our established protocols which we have followed diligently is to provide adequately for the security and safety of protesters by ensuring that criminal elements and hoodlums do not take undue advantage to cause total breakdown of law and order.

“The use of force on Protesters is prohibited under the protocols except when necessary to protect lives and prevent the destruction of property. This was the protocol adopted during the “End Bad Governance Protest” as, Police commands across the nation were specifically directed to protect lives and properties of citizens during the protest.

“Amnesty International is advised to have retrospection on its frequently false reporting on Nigerian’s Law Enforcement activities and reflect on its reporting methodology, by ensuring that its reports are accurate and contains true and fair expression of events that touches on National Security and safety of all Nigerians.

“Accurate reporting of facts is key to the integrity and character of every International Organisation and Amnesty International should not be an exception.”

The Force PRO therefore disclosed that the Nigeria Police Force will in due time be writing the Amnesty International to demand for a retraction of this report from the public space and with a public apology.

“The Nigeria Police Force remains resolute in protecting the rights of all citizens while ensuring the security and stability of the nation. We therefore urge the public to be wary of sensational reports designed to incite mistrust and weaken confidence in law enforcement institutions.”

Ondo Takes Measures To Prevent Tragedies

Ayodele Oni

December 22, 2024

By Ayodele Oni

In response to the recent spike in tragedies across the country, and in a bid to enhance public safety and order during gatherings in Ondo State, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Olukayode Ajulo, SAN, has issued series of directives outlining improved crowd control measures.

The guidelines, documented in Directive No. 01-1224, are aimed at regulating public gatherings and ensuring the protection of lives and properties during events.

“These directives are anchored in the powers vested in the Attorney General under Section 195 of the Constitution of Nigeria 1999 (as amended), Sections 62 and 95 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Law of Ondo State 2015, and Sections 2 and 4 of the Nigeria Police Act 2020.”

Dr. Ajulo emphasized that the guidelines prioritize public safety while respecting citizens’ constitutional rights to peaceful assembly.

Part of the measures are that “Law enforcement agencies are to conduct thorough risk assessments of any planned gatherings, factors to consider include expected attendance, location, and potential for unrest.

“Organizers of public events must notify local authorities prior to the event. Such

Notifications should include details such as date, time, venue, and expected number of attendees.

“Adequate police and security personnel must be deployed to gather intelligence and maintain order before and during events. Crowd management teams will be responsible for monitoring the event and addressing any issues that arise.

“Establish clear communication channels between event organizers and law enforcement. Regular updates should be shared to ensure swift responses to any crowd-related incidents.

“Utilize surveillance and monitoring technology to observe crowd dynamics in real-time. Drones and CCTV cameras may be employed where necessary to enhance security.

“Conduct campaigns to educate the public on safety measures during gatherings. Promote peaceful assembly and discourage violence or unlawful behaviour.

“Develop and disseminate emergency response plans for potential incidents.

All personnel must be trained on these protocols.

“Ensure a qualified medical team, emergency preparedness team, ambulances, and security personnel are present for events with over 300 participants, whether spiritual, physical, political, or social. Position medical teams and security personnel strategically within and outside the venue.

“Provide accessible packs of drinking water for participants. Ensure mobile toilets are available, with a sanitation team to maintain cleanliness. Avoid venues with only one entrance or exit to facilitate smooth crowd movement.

“All actions taken must comply with all the laws in operations in Nigeria with full adherence and respect to the Constitutional rights of citizens to assemble peacefully.

“Any violations of these directives may result in legal action against the organizers or participants.”

Ajulo stated that the directives also call for enhanced collaboration between event organizers, law enforcement agencies, and local government authorities, stressing the importance of proactive measures, such as communication protocols and venue accessibility, to prevent incidents and ensure public safety.

The Chief Law Officer of the State reiterated that these measures are designed to protect lives and property, urging full compliance from all parties involved.

“These crowd control measures are a testament to Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa’s commitment to fostering a secure environment for public gatherings in Ondo State.

“Stakeholders are advised to familiarize themselves with the directives to avoid legal repercussions and contribute to a safer society.”

Why Wike’s Ally Was Sacked As Rivers APC Chairman

Adesina Soyooye

December 22, 2024

By Adesina Soyooye

Tony Okocha, an ally of Nyesom Wike, Minister for the Federal Capital Territory, has been sacked as the Chairman of the Rivers State All Progressives Congress, APC.

He was sacked by a Port hacourt High Court, Rivers State.

His sack is a consequence of the declaration by the Court the congresses which produced him are null and void.

The Honourable Justice Godswill Ogbomanu’s , came on the heels of an earlier court order which restrained the APC from conducting any of its its congresses – Ward, Local Government or State.

The Court upbraided the party’s actions and said it acted in defiance of the its directive and so undermined judicial authority.

Consequently, a fine to the tune of ₦10 million was imposed on the party. Emenike Ebette who was the claimant said that the APC held the congresses in brazen disregard of legal processes. His Counsel praised the Court’s decision, and said it has that it has restored fairness and the integrity of the Court.

One of the fallout of the judgment is that it has invalidated all decisions reached during the congresses, and so, sacked Okocha’s election as chairman.

Okocha, a former PDP chieftain and former Chief of Staff and ally of Rotimi Amaechi as Governor of the State, turned 360 degrees, became Wike’s Ally and has since been tackling Amaechi.

In one of such outings, he disclosed that he was one of those who rigged elections while he was Amaechi’s Chief of Staff.

Ogbaru Women Receive Training On Clean Cooking, Empowerment

Tosin Olatokunbo

December 22, 2024

Over 50 women in Ogbaru Federal Constituency, Anambra state have received training on Renewable Energy from the Nigeria Atomic Energy Commission (NAEC), facilitated by Hon. Afam Ogene, representative of the Ogbaru Federal Constituency, Anambra state.

The training which was executed by
Frontline Infosys Limited, focused on clean cooking, followed an earlier training programme on solar energy for over 100 youths in Ogbaru, which was also facilitated by the lawmaker, who is the Chairman, Committee on Renewable Energy in the House of Representatives.

Clean cooking refers to the use of cooking fuels, technologies, and practices that minimize harmful emissions, reduce environmental impact, and promote health and well-being. Clean cooking aims to replace traditional cooking methods that rely on solid fuels, such as charcoal, wood, and dung, which are major contributors to indoor air pollution, deforestation, and climate change.

Some examples of clean cooking solutions, according to the trainer, Barrister Ndubuisi Benjamin, include: Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), Biogas, Electricity, Solar cooking, Induction cooking, Ethanol, Improved biomass cookstoves, among others.

Barrister Benjamin said that,”The adoption of clean cooking solutions is critical to achieving sustainable development, mitigating climate change, and improving the lives of millions of people worldwide.”

Clean cooking, as stated in the training manual, offers numerous benefits, including,
improved health as it educes exposure to indoor air pollution; environmental protection by lowering greenhouse gas emissions and deforestation.

Other advantages include increased efficiency as it offers faster cooking times and reduced fuel consumption; economic benefits as it saves, creates job opportunities in the clean cooking sector, and empowerment by bringing about increased productivity and reduced burden on women and children.”

Addressing the women at the venue of the training at Ruchem Beach Hotels, Iyiowa-Odekpe, Hon. Ogene said he would continue to use his position to add value to the lives of the people through human capital and infrastructure development. He advised the beneficiaries to take the training seriously to enable them adopt the use of modern cooking techniques.

The Labour Party (LP) legislator said he deliberately made sure the beneficiaries were not selected on political party bases, as they cut across all the 16 communities in Ogbaru that make up the federal constituency because he wanted to prove that it is better to elect a leader who would use his position to attract democracy dividend after being elected rather than voting for one because he has the money to buy votes from the people.

Each of the beneficiaries were empowered with gas cooking stoves and the sun of N50,000, after the programme.

Some of the beneficiaries, including Mrs Ifeyinwa Okwuosa, Mrs Ijeoma Onuora, Mrs Isamade Chioma described Hon. Ogene as a selfless leader, humble, and, committed to the welfare of the ordinary people.

“I thank Hon. Afam Ogene so much for this training, gifting me cooking gas, and, N50,000. We have had many of our people who represented us at the Federal House, none of them has done what Hon Afam Ogene has been doing for us. He will go back to the House of Reps in the next election. And we are praying God to bless him with sound health, every member of his family too”, highly elated Mrs Okwuosa said in interview at the venue of the programme.

Mrs Onuora and Isamade in addition to praising Hon Ogene in their separate interviews said the training and gift of cooking gas would reduce the hardship they have been experiencing in using kerosine for cooking.

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