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Uzodimma: Imo Gets Chief Judge Soon.. Inaugurates JSC, Others,  Five New Commissioners

By
The Source
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Governor Hope Uzodimma Inaugurates JSC

Governor Hope Uzodimma has given the hint that a new Chief Judge will emerge in Imo State soon.

Speaking Friday at the New Exco Chambers, Government House, Owerri, he demonstrated resolve to ensuring adequate and most effective justice dispensation in the State,  charging the newly inaugurated Judicial Service Commission (JSC) to commence, immediately, the process of selecting a substantive Chief Judge for the State.

The Governor breathed the circumstances that led to the removal of the former Chief Judge by the Nigeria Judicial Council (NJC) and stressed that Judicial Service Commission has a significant role to play in managing the conduct of Judges in the State and to sanitize our judiciary.

Uzodimma further warned against falsification of age in the system, stressing that those involved in such acts should desist as it brings disrepute to the State and the justice system.

The Governor therefore mandated the Commission to show integrity and courage by ensuring that only Judges with credible records are nominated for positions of trust.  “Fasten your seat belts and weather the storm,  no matter whose ox is gored,”  he charged the members.

Members of the JSC include: Barr. Louis M. Alozie, SAN; Eze Duruiheoma, SAN; Hon. Barr. Paul Obinatu and Hon. Lady M.M.Anyanwu.

Uzodimma told them  to find courage to sanitise the judicial process in Imo, saying, “ensure we have credible records, sincere and honest people who will oversee the affairs of the judiciary.”

He advised them to take government’s support for their assignment for granted, and that he will not appoint a Chief Judge who will ridicule his administration, adding, “fasten your seatbelt and weather all turbulence no matter whose ox is gored.”

In the same vain,  the Governor inaugurated five new Commissioners, Chairmen and members of Civil Service Commission and that of Local Government Service Commission.

Same day, Uzodimma inaugurated nominees for the Board of the Imo State University, Owerri (IMSU), Imo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (ISOPADEC), and the Imo State Road Maintenance Agency (IROMA).

He said the idea is to strengthen the capacity of his administration towards the endowment of more democracy dividends to Imo people, and enjoined the appointees to

demonstrate highest  ethical standard in the discharge of their duties.

Addressing the five Commissioners- designate – Prof Boniface G. Nworgu, Chief Kenneth Okafor, Barr. Enyinnaya Onuegbu, Dr. Anthony Mgbeahuruike and Dr. Elias Emedom, the Governor said they were brought on board to help strengthen the capacity of his administration to deliver on the mandate of call to serve the people.

He warned against toying with the call and honour to serve, reminding them to comport themselves in high ethical standards, devoid of any form of bickering with their Permanent Secretaries and the existing government bureaucracy.

To the members of the Civil Service Commission – Dr. (Mrs) Julie Onyeukwu (Chairman), Dr. Uche Edomobi, Goddy O. Dike and Dr. Romanus Ezeogu – the Governor expressed delight over the Commission’s performance in his first tenure, saying it informed the reason most of them were reappointed.

However, he urged them to do better than they did before by show casing their capacity, and adding more value to the development of Imo State.

Uzodimma urged them to take his reforms in the Civil service seriously, sustaining them as far as ongoing digitalisation is concerned, and even align the Service with the current global emphasis on Artificial intelligence.

He cautioned against the temptation of meddling in matters that will lead to compromising the integrity of the Policy of government with regard to promotions, management of the Civil Service, and called on them to remain transparent, comply with best practices, and align themselves with ideas that will promote digital economy, social order in the system.

“If you fail to do the needful and choose to compromise the integrity of the policy, you will pay dearly for it, and you will regret it.”

Uzodimma told members of the Local Government Service Commission (LGSC) – Dr. Nick Obinatu (Chairman), Chief Ethelbert Nwachukwu, Chief Chukwuemeka Anukam and Hon. Engr. Stanley Chibueze Okwuosa – to discharge their duties without fear or favour, and to ensure that the new Imo he promised is given adequate attention even at the local level.

He also warned them against acts that will lead to compromising the processes of engagement of personnel at the local government areas.

For the nominees of the Board of Imo State University, Owerri – Prof Fr. Philip Anyaehie Ogbonna ( Chairman), Mr. Leo Stan Eke, Rt. Hon. Chuma Nnaji, Hon. Godwin Esom Obodo,  Pharm. Chuks Okoronkwo and Princess Nkechi Mbachu – the Governor urged them to recall the reason the founding fathers of Imo State fought for the establishment of the institution, and the need to restore her honour.

Eleven nominees were inaugurated for the ISOPADEC Board. They are: Prof Eze Dele Odigbo ( Chairman), Chief Austin Onyedebelu ( Managing Director), Hon. Cassidy Ohamara, Hon. Nkeiru Ihesie, Dr. Mrs. Nina Nwulu, Hon. Mrs. Ijeoma Joy Ikegwuruka, Mrs. Esther Enoch, Hon. Bernard Nwanana, Chief Valentine Okere, Hon. Mrs. Ify Obi and Chief Kelechi Onuoha.

The Governor challenged them to use the God’s given resources of the people to alleviate their suffering.

He regretted that in the past money accruing to the area was shared by the leaders, a situation that left the place without basic infrastructure and amenities befitting a people whose area is rich in oil.

He called on the Board to join hands with his government to change the tide, particularly as his administration has already started intervening in the health, road, education, electricity and other needs of the people of the area.

Overall, Sen. Uzodimma used the opportunity to solicit support of Imo people to the industrialisation programme of his government and the ongoing economic reforms and programmes that have placed Imo on the threshold of industrial revolution.

He urged all to join the moving train to ensure that a “new Imo” is realised. ” We know our target and by the grace of God we will meet our target,” the Governor concluded.

In their respective vote of thanks, the Chairman Judicial Service Commission, Barr.  Louis  Alozie (SAN), on behalf  members of his Commission, pledged to uphold integrity in their duties, and to work to sanitise the judiciary in Imo State.

Barr. Enyinnaya Onuegbu who spoke for the Commissioners thanked the Governor for finding them worthy of such positions of trust, promising that they will not disappoint his expectations of them.

Also, Prof Fr. Ogbonna who spoke for the IMSU and ISOPADEC nominees thanked the Governor for finding them worthy of the appointments and promised that they will do their best to live up to the reason they were found worthy for the assignment.

The inauguration was attended by top government functionaries from the three arms of government as well as critical stakeholders in the State.

“I Will Witness Proceedings At Ondo Election Petition Tribunal,” – Gov Aiyedatiwa, Confident Of Victory

By
Ayodele Oni
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Lucky Aiyedatiwa

By Ayodele Oni

Ondo State Governor, Lucky  Aiyedatiwa, has reiterated his confidence in the credibility of the November 16, 2024 governorship election, stating that the people of Ondo State voted overwhelmingly for the right candidate.

Speaking after attending the inaugural sitting of the Ondo State Governorship Election Petitions Tribunal in Akure, on Friday, the Governor described the election as historic, emphasizing that his victory across all 18 local government areas was a true reflection of the people’s will.

The Governor said: “The election was free, fair, and credible. The people of Ondo State made history by ensuring that, for the first time, a candidate won in all 18 local government areas.

“That alone speaks volumes about the trust and confidence they have in my leadership,”

The tribunal, presided over by Justice Nelson Ugubu, is set to hear petitions filed by three opposition parties—the Social Democratic Party (SDP), the African Democratic Congress (ADC), and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)—challenging Governor Aiyedatiwa’s victory.

The PDP, which emerged as the main petitioner, has lined up 43 witnesses to substantiate its claims of alleged electoral malpractices.

Governor Aiyedatiwa expressed his interest in following the tribunal proceedings, noting that it was an opportunity to observe the judiciary at work.

“And, you know, learning is continuous. Even though I’m the governor, I still also want to hear what is going on in the judiciary arm of government, particularly in this election petition.

“Having the legal professionals and the very competent justices on this panel, it’s an exercise for me. I just want to witness it and be part of it. There’s nothing to worry about.”

Legal representatives from both the petitioners and respondents engaged in preliminary submissions, setting the stage for the hearing of the petitions over the coming weeks. The tribunal has adjourned to February 10th for further proceedings.

LP Bleeds: Edoga Set To Return To PDP, As Its Imo 2023  Dep. Gov. Candidate Resigns

By
Suleiman Anyalewechi
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Chijioke Edoga

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Labour Party, LP, Gubernatorial Candidate for Enugu State, in the 2023 General Elections, Chijioke Edoga, has pleaded for more time from hierarchy of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, to consider their request for a defection

This is just as Tony Nwulu, the LP Deputy Governorship flag bearer in the November 11, 2023 off-circle election ,on Friday, January, 31, 2025, formally announced his resignation from the party.

In a video of a PDP meeting posted by  Dan Nwomeh, the media aide to the Enugu state Governor Friday , the party appealed to Edoga, to return to its fold.

The Source reports ,that before joining forces with LP, Edoga ,was a member of the Enugu state chapter of the PDP.

He, also, served as a Commissioner, in the administration of former Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi.

Speaking at the meeting, the Enugu State PDP Chairman, Martin  Chukwuwike, urged Edoga to seriously consider returning to  the party.

But responding, Edoga informed that he will consult some stakeholders before arriving at a final decision.

” I will consult .I will consult widely because I am a product of several men of good will.

“I will have to take back the message from the chairman and his team. I have enormous respect for the team and chairman

“It is not in the nature of Igbo people to hear such a weighty thing and respond immediately. I am going to take it home. As quickly as possible, I will get back to the Chairman. Then my position on the issue will be known”, Edoga stated .

The Source  reports that before now,  about six LP State Lawmakers had left the party for the PDP in the State.

It is strongly believed that Edoga will be following the path of the legislators in the days ahead .

In a letter dated January 30, 2025, addressed to the LP leadership,Hon, Nwulu a former Member of the House of Representatives, while appreciating the vision and mission of the LP, however explained that his decision to quit was carefully considered.

The resignation letter has since been acknowledged by the LP through its Administrative Secretary, Tijani Sandra Ayomide

“I write to formally resign my membership of the Labour Party effective immediately.

“This decision comes after careful consideration, and while I appreciate the opportunities and experiences gained during my time with the party, I believe it is in my best interest to move in a different direction at this time.

“I remain grateful for the vision and commitment of the party to social justice, democracy and good governance”, Hon Nwulu stated.

It will be recalled that before contesting in the  last Imo State Gubernatorial election, Nwulu had represented the Oshodi/Isolo II  Lagos, Federal Constituency at the House of Representatives.

PSC Approves Immediate Retirement Of Senior Police Officers Above 60 Years/35 Years in Service

By
The Source
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DIG Hashimu Argungu - PSC Chairman

The Police Service Commission rose from its first  extraordinary Meeting with the approval for the immediate retirement of  senior Police Officers who have spent more than 35 years in service and those above 60 years of age.

According to a statement signed by Ikechukwu Ani, Head, Press and Public Relations, on Friday;  the Commission  at its 24th Plenary Meeting  of 27th and 28th September  2017  had approved that the Force Entrants should have their date of appointment  in the Force against the date of their enlistment.

The Commission  has passionately revisited their decision and has come to the conclusion  that the said decision, in its intent and purpose contradicted the principle of merger of service in the Public service and it is in violation of

Public Service Rule No 020908 ( i & ii) which provides for retirement  on attainment of 35 years in service or 60 years of age.

Accordingly, the Commission at its 1st  extraordinary meeting of the 6th Management Board held today, Friday, 31st January 2025, approved the immediate retirement  of those officers  who have spent more than 35 years in service and those above 60 years of age.

The Commission Chairman, DIG Hashimu Argungu, rtd, presided over the extraordinary Meeting and had Justice Adamu Paul Galumje,  retired Justice of the Supreme Court, Hon Commissioner representing the Judiciary; DIG Taiwo Lakanu  rtd, Honourable Commissioner representing the Police and Chief Onyemuchi Nnamani, Secretary to the Commission in attendance.

The Commission’s decision has been conveyed to the Inspector General of Police for implementation.

Afenifere Youth Coalition Condemns Sowore’s Attacks On Yoruba Public Officials

By
Akinwale Kasali
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Omoyele Sowore

By Akinwale Kasali

Omoyele Sowore, former Presidential Candidate and Publisher, Sahara Reporters, has come under strong criticism from the Afenifere Youth Coalition, AYC, over what it described as his relentless attacks on Yoruba public office holders, particularly the Inspector General of Police, IGP, Dr. Kayode Egbetokun.

At a press conference held in Lagos on Friday, the coalition accused Sowore of engaging in a campaign of defamation, blackmail, and cyberbullying, and called for legal action to hold him accountable.

According to the group’s spokesperson, Femi Mustapha, Sowore’s recent legal troubles, including a 16-count cybercrime charge, stem from his alleged misuse of social media to spread misinformation and incite unrest. They claimed his actions were part of a larger agenda to destabilize President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

The coalition’s spokesperson described Sowore as a “failed politician and professional troublemaker” who has built a career on controversy rather than genuine activism. They argued that his presidential ambitions under the African Action Congress (AAC) exposed his lack of leadership capacity, and noted his inability to secure significant electoral support.

“Sowore thrives on political blackmail and baseless activism. He is not fighting for the common man, but for his own selfish interests and those of his foreign sponsors.”

The group, however, commended IGP Egbetokun for taking the legal route rather than resorting to intimidation, stating that his response demonstrates professionalism and respect for due process. The group also urged the Judiciary to ensure that Sowore faces justice, warning that social media defamation should no longer be tolerated in Nigeria.

The coalition further criticized Sowore’s media platform, Sahara Reporters, and accused it of peddling falsehoods and functioning as a “blackmail factory” rather than a credible news outlet.

The group concluded by urging Nigerians not to be deceived by Sowore’s “theatrics.” It  called on his supporters to rethink their allegiance, and urged security agencies to let the law take its course.

The statement reads: “Nigeria is bigger than any individual, and we will not allow one man’s selfish agenda to derail the progress of our nation.

“We have called this press conference to address the continued and unwarranted attacks by Omoyele Sowore against prominent Yoruba public office holders, particularly his recent verbal assaults on the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, which have rightfully led to his arraignment in court.

“Apparently, Sowore has built a career out of harassing, defaming, and undermining public officials, and it is time to set the record straight. Recently he posted a self-indicting video evidence of himself where he was seen resisting and obstructing public officers doing their job, disobedience to lawful orders, cyberstalking, and portraying actions allegedly aimed at preventing arrests”.

Mustapha stressed that “his attack on the IGP is not just a random act of provocation; it is part of his larger agenda to destabilize the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

This is unacceptable, and as Yoruba youths committed to the peace and progress of our land, we refuse to sit idly by while such reckless behavior continues unchecked.

“It is undeniable that Sowore thrives on controversy, baseless activism, and political blackmail. His entire career revolves around inciting protests, misleading the public, and portraying himself as a hero of democracy while actually serving the interest of anyone readily available to pay his price.

“Moreover, he is nothing but a bitter loser who has failed repeatedly at the polls and now seeks relevance by attacking those in government. His inability to secure even a fraction of national support during his presidential run under the African Action Congress (AAC) exposed his lack of leadership capacity. Instead of engaging in constructive opposition, he has chosen the path of malicious falsehoods, cyberbullying, and outright defamation.

“Undoubtedly, his actions show that he is more interested in anarchy than governance. His threats to bring down President Tinubu’s Government are not just reckless but also a clear indication of his anti-democratic tendencies”.

Speaking further, AYC said Sowore’s penchant for false accusations and digital harassment has finally caught up with him.

“The 16-count cybercrime charges filed against him are evident to his continued abuse of online platforms to spread lies and incite chaos.

“Nevertheless, instead of addressing these charges maturely, Sowore continues to play the victim while misleading his gullible supporters. It is worth noting that while IGP Kayode Egbetokun has shown maturity and respect for the rule of law by taking legal action against him, Sowore has chosen to manipulate public sentiment by playing the victim card, and making unrepentant noises on his social media handles.

“It is laughable that a man who constantly accuses others of tyranny now finds himself answering to the law for his own tyranny in the digital space. The law must take its full course, and we commend the IGP for choosing legal redress rather than resorting to intimidation or abuse of power.

“No individual, regardless of their self-acclaimed status, should be above the law. The court, despite its imperfections, remains the rightful place to settle disputes, and we believe that Sowore’s trial is in order. His continued defamation of respected public figures must be checked.

“Apparently, his pattern of behavior is one that thrives on falsehood and mischief, which he masks as activism.

“However, he needs to  be schooled out of his ignorance and be faced with the fact that, activism should be based on facts and sincerity, not personal vendettas and blackmail journalism.

“Indeed, the judiciary must ensure that justice is served and that this case sets a precedent that online defamation, cyberbullying, and targeted harassment will no longer be tolerated. The era where social media is used as a weapon of political sabotage must come to an end.

“Sowore has, over time, deceived and misled his followers into believing that he is fighting for the common man. However, a closer look at his activities reveals that he is nothing more than a hunger-driven activist, a false reporter, an anti-democracy campaigner, and an opportunistic agitator.

“Perhaps his supporters need to ask themselves a simple question: What tangible impact has Sowore made in improving Nigeria, apart from fueling chaos and propaganda? The answer is clear—none!

Police Apprehend Wife, Associates Of Wanted Chadian Terrorist Behind Kano Maulud Bombing

By
Suleiman Anyalewechi
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Police Apprehend Wife and Associates Of Wanted Chadian Terrorist

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Kano State police Command, on Friday, January 31, 2025, announced a major breakthrough in their efforts to trackdown wanted Chadian terror- suspect behind the aborted bombing of the 2025, Tijjaniya Maulud celebration ground in the State.

At a media briefing at the Bompai State headquarters, the Police Commissioner, Salman Dogo Garba, announced that three persons linked to the runaway Chadian terror kingpin, including his wife have been apprehended.

The Source reports that the State Police Command had, on Monday, January 27, insisted on the authenticity of its earlier terror alert.

The Police had, on Friday, January 24, warned residents to avoid crowded areas in most parts of  the State, noting that intelligence at its disposal suggested terror attacks.

But the Kano State Government quickly dismissed the terror alert as a hoax, and an orchestrated plot to abort the annual Islamic religious ceremony of Tijjaniya Maulud billed to hold on Saturday January 25.

Although the ceremony held as earlier scheduled, the State Police Commissioner, while addressing the press on Monday, gave further insight into the planned terror attacks and how they were averted.

He announced the arrest of eight suspects in connection with the aborted attacks.

However, he informed that the main culprit, a Chadian, who had earlier carried out a similar attack in his country in which 17 persons were killed, narrowly escaped.

“We truly received terror alerts and we tracked the suspects to the Tijjaniya Maulud celebration venue.

“As we moved closer to getting him, he got hints and escaped to Cameroon. But thank God we have gotten the person who sheltered him in Kano and he has given us credible information about the suspect”, CP Garba had stated .

However, while giving further insight into the development on Friday, the State Commissioner of Police reassured of the commitment of the Police to adequately protect lives and properties of the people.

“You will recall that on 24th January, 2025, the Command released a security alert calling on the public to exercise caution and report any suspicious persons or items to the authorities, following a series of intelligence reports from various intelligence agencies about the presence of suspected terrorists in the State.

“Acting on one of the intelligence reports, improvised Explosive Devices IEDs were recovered with discreet investigations in progress.

“Also, a wanted suspected terrorist, Ahmad Adam Abba, a Chadian National, who masterminded the killing of seventeen (17) people in the Republic of Chad, was identified as planning to set a terrorist base in Kano

“The wanted Chadian suspected terrorist escaped out of Nigeria and we have successfully apprehended three of his associates, including his wife, another Chadian named Jibrin Mohammed, 42 years old, and a Nigerian.

“They were arrested following a thorough investigation and intelligence-led policing and are currently in custody with investigation ongoing.

“I am pleased to announce that the Command has made significant progress in its efforts to dismantle these networks and neutralize any potential risks as there is no hiding place for criminals in the State.

In addition to the aforementioned arrests, we have ramped up our intelligence gathering efforts across various places. Our team is collaborating closely  with other intelligence agencies and the communities to ensure that we are working hand-in-hand to identify any suspicious activities and individuals who may pose a security threat to our society”, the Kano state CP noted .

According to CP Garba, the Command has intensified its patrols and surveillance measures around some known hotspots and vulnerable areas

Similarly, he promised that the police authorities will continue to sensitize the people on the need to promptly report any suspicious activities or persons around them.

Notwithstanding their face-off, CP Garba appreciated the Kano State authorities and the good people of the State for their support in the efforts to maintain peace and security Kano.

Update: Obasa’s Removal: DSS Releases Detained Lawmakers

By
Akinwale Kasali
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Arrested Lagos Lawmakers

By Akinwale Kasali

The Department of State Security, DSS, have released the Lawmakers detained for questioning over their involvement in the leadership crisis that led to the enthronement of Mojisola Meranda, who replaced former embattled Speaker, Mudasiru Obasa.

The Lawmakers released by DSS after hours of questioning were Lanre Afinni (Lagos Island 2) and Sylvester Ogunkelu who represents Epe Constituency.

It was gathered that the Lawmakers were questioned over their alleged involvement in the removal of Obasa, who was impeached by the Lawmakers on January 13 and replaced by his Deputy, Meranda.

The detained Lawmakers were alleged to have broken into the House’s store to access the mace, facilitating the legislative process that led to Obasa’s impeachment.

Chairman of the Ad Hoc Committee on Information, Stephen Ogundipe, disclosed the development on Thursday in Lagos, reinforcing that the Assembly stands firmly by its decision.

“Today, members of the Lagos Assembly honored an invitation from the Lagos DSS Command in Shangisha, where we provided detailed insights into the ex-speaker’s removal. At the DSS office, we reaffirmed our unwavering commitment to upholding constitutional governance.”

Ogundipe emphasized that the impeachment adhered strictly to the 1999 Constitution and the Powers and Privileges Act, which empower state assemblies to regulate their internal proceedings without external interference.

“It is public knowledge that legislative autonomy allows state assemblies to conduct their business freely within designated chambers,” he stated, asserting that Obasa’s removal was a democratic decision that met all legal requirements.

He warned that any attempt to challenge this decision would be seen as undermining the constitutional authority granted to the Assembly.

“The Assembly exercised its constitutional duty in the best interest of Lagos residents,” Ogundipe added, making it clear that no form of political interference would reverse their decision.

He also commended the DSS, particularly the Lagos Command Director, for handling the situation professionally and ensuring a smooth and transparent engagement with lawmakers.

Ogundipe reiterated the Assembly’s dedication to its legislative responsibilities, emphasizing its role in serving the people of Lagos and promoting effective governance. He urged all stakeholders, including the executive and the public, to respect legislative proceedings and avoid undue interference.

Appeal Court To Kanu: IPOB Is A Terrorist Group

By
James Orji
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Nnamdi-Kanu - IPOB Leader

The Nnamdi Kanu-led Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB is a terrorist organisation, the Court of Appeal has declared.

The appellate court decision comes more than seven years after the lower court, a federal high court in Abuja, the nation’s capital presided over by Justice Abdu Kafarati  designated IPOB as a terrorist organisation.

The federal government had gone ahead to gazette IPOB as terrorist organisation following the court verdict.

The court of Appeal decision, which was made on Thursday also comes after IPOB’ strongman, Kanu sued the Nigerian Police Force, NPF, for describing IPOB as a terrorist group.

The IPOB leader had sued the Police for N20 billion, apart from a public apology from the NPF spokesman, Muyiwa Adejobi.

According to the panel of justices which ruled on the issue yesterday, IPOB activities pose a serious threat to the corporate existence of the country and her citizens.

The court of Appeal decision was unanimous as there was not dissent among the judges.

The magazines reports that IPOB activities in Nigeria’s south east, which include the killings of citizens and security agents and wanton destruction of property have posed a serious threat to the region.

Kanu said the secessionist group is non-violent and should not have been designated as a terrorist organisation, citing a court judgment on the issue.

According to a suit filed this week by Kanu against the police, the IPOB leader said those claiming that his group is responsible for the killing and violence in the south east should present evidence to back up their claims.

The law suit was filed by Kanu’s counsel Aloy Ejimakor.

The IPOB leader stated that the 2022 designation of the group as a terrorist orgainsation by the federal government has been declared null and void and against the Constitution by a court of competent jurisdiction.

He denied police claim that some criminals apprehended by the security agencies in Okigwe, Imo state recently were members of IPOB, adding that IPOB has been targeted by the federal government because it’s an Igbo group.

Kanu said, “For avoidance of doubt, a competent high court had held in October 2022 that the Federal Government breached the Constitution in labeling IPOB a terrorist group and that the group was discriminatorily targeted because its membership is populated by the Igbo.

“Thus, to keep tagging every criminal encountered in Southeast as IPOB exhibits a false narrative that defames not only Nnamdi Kanu but the entire Igbo.”

Amidst Controversy, AGF Backs IGP Egbetokun’s 4-year Tenure

By
Tosin Olatokunbo
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Kayode Egbetokun - Inspector General of Police - IGP

Lateef Fagbemi, Nigeria’s Attorney General and Minister of Justice, AGF, has affirmed the four year tenure of Kayode Egbetokun as the Inspector General of Police, IGP.

Contrary to suggestions that Egbetokun should have retired from the Force after clocking 60 years, the AGF said  the law is on the IGP’s side, citing the recently amended Police Act.

Fagbemi, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, SAN, said in a statement on Friday that Egbetokun will enjoy a four year term based on the amended Police Act.

Even though the IGP clocked 60 years last September, he’s now expected to remain in office until October 2027.

Fagbemi said, “For the avoidance of doubt, Egbetokun’s continuous stay in office is in line with the provisions of the Police Act amended in 2024, which allow the occupant of the office to enjoy a term of four years effective from the date of his appointment as IGP, in this case, the 31st day of October 2023.

“This advisory is necessary for the guidance of the general public.”

Last year, the National Assembly came under severe criticism after amending the relevant Act to extend the tenure of Egbetokun who was appointed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2023.

Checks revealed that Egbetokun should have retired in September last year after he clocked the mandatory 60 years in service as a police officer.

The amendment of the Act which drew the anger of not a few Nigerians and police officers was believed to have been politically motivated.

Apart from the suggestions that the Egbetokun’s tenure was extended to further the interest of the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, the IGP is very close to President Tinubu having served as his Chief Security Officer, CSO, while the former was governor of Lagos state between 1999 and 2007.

Critics of the Tinubu administration insist that the extension will not only cause serious disquiet in the Nigerian Police Force, they added that such action will affect professionalism among the rank and file of the Force, particularly among its top echelon, from Assistant Inspector General of Police, AIG, and Deputy Inspector General of Police, DIG who are aspiring to become IGP.

Lateef Fagbemi - AGF
AGF Fagbemi

“The morale of the current AIGs and DIGs will be very low because they have realized that their aspirations to get to the top of their career as IGP has been stunted by the unnecessary extension of Egebtokun’s tenure,” a security expert who spoke under anonymity because of the sensitivity of the issue told the magazine on Friday.

“When the government is making such sensitive decision they must not forget that the dream of an officer is to get to the top of his career. Politicizing appointments in the police force, where professionalism is highly required is a serious disservice to the country,” a top police officer said.

The former Police Act, Section 18(8) provides thus: “Every police officer shall, on recruitment or appointment, serve in the Nigeria Police Force for a period of 35 years or until he attains the age of 60 years, whichever is earlier”.

The amended Act provides that “Notwithstanding the provisions of subsection (8) of this section, any person appointed to the office of Inspector-General of Police shall remain in office until the end of the term stipulated in the letter of appointment in line with the provisions of Section 7(6) of this Act.”

The amended Act in Part 111 Section 7 (6) further provides for a for year tenure for any IGP appointed by the president.

Essentially, Egbetokun, based on the amended Act is expected to remain in office until 2027 having been appointed in 2023 by President Tinubu.

Shock As FG offers University Scholarship To Convicted Kidnap Kingpin, Evans

By
Adesina Soyooye
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Chukwudimeme Onwuamadike - Evans

By Adesina Soyooye

Evans tells Court that thanks to FG and RCCG, he has denounced his criminal activities, become a changed man, and is seeking a plea-bargain!

Shock greeted the revelation at a Lagos High Court on Thursday when it was disclosed that convicted kidnap kingpin,  Chukwudimeme Onwuamadike, popular as Evans, is now a student of the National Open University of Nigeria, NOUN. Evans, under prosecution by the Federal Government for series of alleged kidnappings and murders,  is not only a 200- level student of NOUN, but is attending it free of charge, courtesy of the scholarship granted him by the Federal Government.

On appearance on Thursday, Evans  told a Lagos State High Court,  Ikeja, that he has become a good citizen, and has denounced all his sins, and  repented of all his criminal activities.

Based on this  self-acclaimed repentance, he has applied to the Lagos State Government to forgive him of all his crimes and grant him mercy.

His Lawyer, Emefo Etudo, who addressed the Honourable Court on his behalf, stated this after Evans took  his plea on the  five amended counts which  border on murder, attempted murder, and conspiracy to commit kidnapping, all  preferred against him by the Lagos State Government.

Addressing the Court, prosecuting Lawyer, Sule Yusuf, said that the matter was starting de novo and urged the court to re-arraign the defendants. There was no objection to that from Etudo, who represented Evand and his co-defendant, C.N Udeh.

According to the prosecution, on or about 10.pm,  August 27, 2013, along 3rd Avenue, FESTAC Town, in Lagos, Evans and Joseph Emeka, allegedly, killed one Peter Nweke. Both men also allegedly killing one Chijioke Ngozi on the same day.

Expectedly, Evans and Emeka pleaded not guilty to the charges preferred against them.

It was at this juncture, based on their not-guilty plea, that the Prosecution Counsel, Sule, asked the Court to further remand the defendants. He, however, disclosed to the Court that Evans, who is the first defendant has applied for plea bargaining through his Lawyer,  Etudo, while Emeka,  the second defendant also applied for same plea bargain  through his own Counsel.

Addressing the trial Judge, Justice Adenike Coker, Etudo disclosed that despite the amended charge and the not-guilty  plea by Evans,  he has applied to the Lagos State Government through the Attorney-General’s office for a plea bargain.

His words: “Our focus in this matter is the plea bargain which we have submitted to the State Government.

“My client is now a repentant person. He was a young man consumed by crime, but he is now remorseful. Presently, he is a 200-level student of the National Open University.

“In fact, he made A1 in all his papers in NECO while in prison. All this was made possible through a scholarship given to him by the Federal Government.

“My Lord, we have asked the Lagos State Government to give him the opportunity to go around schools in the state to talk to youths about the dangers of crime.”

Sule said he was aware of Evans’ application for a plea bargain, and added that the appropriate committee will consider it.

Sule: “My Lord, I can confirm that the first defendant ( Evans), has indeed applied for a plea bargain, and it was served on us. We shall be examining it. The second defendant has also made a similar application.”

Justice Coker adjourned the matter to March 20, 2025, for trial.

Etudo, who then addressed Journalists after Court proceedings said that thanks to the effort of the Redeemed Christian Church of God and the Federal Government, his client has become an unbelievably changed person.

Etudo: “My client is now a changed man. He has been transformed. His reformation was made possible by the RCCG and the Federal Government, which gave him a scholarship to study and become a better person.”

Recall that Evans has, since when he was arrested by scores of Police Operatives at his Magodo Phase 2 residence, for sundry allegations including kidnapping, murder, attempted murder, has been under detention and prosecution. He has already been convicted on, at least, one of the offences, and is facing a couple more along with his co-defendant.

At the zenith of his notorious outings, his victims allegedly paid him in US Dollars upto the tune of One million. One of his most alleged daring outings was in FESTAC Lagos where he attempted to abduct Chief Vincent Obianodo, the owner of Young Shall Grow Motors. The Chief got away with near-fatal gunshot injuries.

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