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Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda Will Make Nigeria Better, Wike Said In Xmas Message

By
James Orji
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Nyesom Wike
Nyesom Wike, FCT Minister

The Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike has urged Nigerians to keep hope alive with the Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s demonstration, saying things will soon get better.

Wike spoke in commemoration of the Christmas celebrations on Wednesday. Many Nigerians are joining their counterparts in celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ today, even as the federal government has already declared a two-day holiday to mark the event.

The celebrations of Christmas, according to checks by the magazine is being mark on a very low key by not a few Nigerians due to the economic hardship in the country.

The minister’s remark comes barely hours after over 20 persons were trammeled to death in Abuja, the nation’s capital while scrambling to share from the palliatives being distributed by a well meaning Nigerian to cushion the effects of the economic hardship the administration has imposed on the country.

Scores of other also met their deaths in Oyo and Anambra states during palliative distribution events.

Analysts insist that the administration has impoverish so many Nigerians who are now finding it hard to survive.

The minister however urged Nigerians not to give up hope in the face of the hardship in the country, saying all will be well soon, based on the Renewed Hope Agenda policy of President Tinubu.

Wike said, “I congratulate all residents of the Federal Capital Territory for the grace of celebrating another Christmas. It is my prayer that the good Lord who made this possible will ensure that we all celebrate many more Christmas in good health.

“Christians, in particular, should continue to be obedient to the commandments of God as done by Jesus Christ, because He made it very clear that those who follow Him and aspire to His Kingdom have a perpetual obligation to obey and uphold God’s law.

“Once again, I also sympathise with families of victims of the recent stampedes in Abuja. I pray that God in His infinite mercies will grant them fortitude to bear the irreparable loss”, the statement partly read.

“With the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, things will keep getting better.”

Sharia Law: “We Reject Any Law Against Nigeria’s Constitution”, Gov Makinde

By
James Orji
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Sharia law

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo state says any law not in consonance with the Nigerian Constitution will not be allowed in the state.

The state governor made the remark on Tuesday in response to a viral reports that some Muslims adherent in the state, undre the aegis of the Supreme Council for Shari’ah in Nigeria, SCFSN were planning to establish a Sharia court in the state.

The group had distributed pamphlets inviting people to attend the inauguration of the Supreme Council for Shari’ah in Nigeria (Oyo branch) next month.

“On behalf of the Oyo Muslim indigenes, this is to inform the general public that the inauguration ceremony of the Supreme Council for Shari’ah in Nigeria (Oyo branch) previously scheduled for January 11th, 2025, at the Muslim Community Islamic Centre, Oba Adeyemi High School Road, Mobolaje Area, Agbongangan, Oyo, has been suspended until further notice. Islam portrays peace!” the invitation reads.

The magazine reports that some Yoruba Youths, under the banner of the Yoruba Nation Youth have already kicked against the establishment of Shari’ah court in the south west, saying it’s not in tandem with the tradition and cultures of the Yoruba people.

Governor Makinde, In a video shared on X on Tuesday by Olorundare Olamide, the Senior Special Assistant on New Media to the Governor, however insist that no law can be operational in the state once it violates the constitution.

Makinde said, “They have brought up the issue of Sharia in Oyo, they demanded the establishment of a Shariah court. I say that people may try but for me, in Oyo State, our law is the constitution of Nigeria, which is what I swore to uphold.

“And if they are within the law, fine. But if they are not, they should expect that I will insist the law is being followed.”

In a statement by the leader of YNY (Diaspora) and Homebase Leader, Ayodele Ologunloluwa and Oyegunle Omotoyole on Monday, the group said it will fight any attempt to destabilise the region through the imposition of Shari’ah law.

The statement reads: “We will resist any move to impose Sharia law or courts in Yorubaland.
“Yoruba culture and traditions are distinct, and any attempt to introduce alien laws will be met with fierce opposition.

“We warn the Federal Government not to create divisions in Yorubaland. Our focus is on Yoruba Nation self-determination, and we will not allow external influence to derail our struggle.

“Instead of a Yoruba man prostrating for a Hausa-Fulani, it is better to take courage and die.

“Sharia law is incompatible with our values, culture, and way of life. We will not allow any attempt to disrupt the peace of Yorubaland under the guise of religious imposition.”

“We reject any effort to entrench practices that undermine our faith, values, and identity. We will resist this agenda with all our might.

“No force on earth or in hell can stop the rise of a sovereign Yoruba state.”

Sharia Law, the Muslim legal code is operational in some northern states in Nigeria.

Fayemi Advocates Flexibility As Oyebanji Calls For Harmonious Relationship Among Nigerians

By
Ayodele Oni
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Kayode Fayemi

By Ayodele Oni

Former Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, (NGF) Kayode Fayemi, and Governor of Ekiti State, Biodun Oyebanji, have urged the people of the state and other Nigerians to use the period of Christmas to deepen love and harmonious relationship among themselves in order to have a better society.

Oyebanji, in his Christmas message contained in a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, said the anniversary of the birth of Jesus Christ calls for celebration because it signaled God’s special favour to mankind in bringing the Prince of Peace to the world.

The Governor extended his best wishes to the people of Ekiti State urging them to key into the messages of love for one another, sacrifices, tolerance, humility, compassion and care for those in distress which were the hallmarks of Jesus Christ’s teachings in his public ministry.

“As we rejoice at this momentous occasion, the true essence of the season must not be lost on us. We should reflect on the birth of Jesus Christ and its significance to mankind. This offers an opportunity to deepen love for ourselves and strengthen our harmonious relationships.

Biodun Oyebanji - Ekiti State Governor
Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji

“Let us be our brothers’ keepers by showing love and compassion to one another as exemplified our Lord Jesus Christ whose birth we are celebrating this season.

“I urge the Christian faithful to practise the teachings of Jesus Christ by living in peace and harmony with adherence of other faiths. We should exhibit virtues of humility, tolerance, perseverance and compassion as exemplified by Jesus Christ.”

The immediate past Governor of Ekiti State and former Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), Dr. Kayode Fayemi called on Nigerians to embrace hope, unity, and resilience during the Christmas season.

Fayemi emphasized the need for reflection, compassion, and collective action to address the nation’s pressing challenges.

This was contained in a statement on Tuesday, signed by Mallam Ahmad Sajoh, Head of the Fayemi Media Office, Abuja.

Fayemi described Christmas as a season of renewal and love, underscoring the trials faced by Nigerians over the past year, including economic difficulties, security concerns, and social instability.

“The past year has tested our national resilience. We have faced economic and social challenges, but the enduring spirit of Nigerians has shone brightly. As we celebrate this season, let us draw strength from our shared history of overcoming adversity through unity and determination.”

He urged Nigerians to embrace the core values of Christmas—love, compassion, and sacrifice—and to extend support to the vulnerable within their communities.

Fayemi also appealed to governments at all levels to prioritize the welfare of citizens and adopt innovative approaches to governance.

He stressed the importance of flexibility in policymaking, calling for the courage to explore alternative strategies when existing ones fail to deliver results.

“Good governance demands courage and flexibility—the courage to acknowledge when strategies need adjustment and the flexibility to implement new solutions. As we enter a new year, we have the opportunity to reset and rebuild.”

Looking ahead, Fayemi expressed confidence in the nation’s ability to overcome its challenges with bold leadership and active citizen participation. He encouraged Nigerians not to lose faith in the country’s potential and to work together toward a brighter future.

“Let this festive season remind us of our shared humanity and common destiny. As we celebrate, let us extend hands of fellowship to those less fortunate. The true spirit of Christmas—love, giving, and hope—should guide us not just during this season but throughout the coming year.”

Wike Tackles MURIC Over Comment On Sack Of FCDA Top Official

By
Ayodele Oni
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By Ayodele Oni

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has accused the director of the Muslim Rights Concern, (MURIC), Prof Ishaq Akintola of fanning embers of religious discord with his comment on the the suspension of the Federal Capital Development Authority, (FCDA), Executive Secretary, Shehu Ahmad Hadi.

The Minister emphasized that running the FCT is not based on religion.

Wike made the remark while charging the Director  MURIC, Prof Akintola, to limit himself to issues of the propagation of Islam and desist from promoting religious discord among Nigerians.

He was reacting to a comment by Prof Akintola, on the suspension of the  FCDA, official, Shehu Hadi.

Speaking through his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and New Media, Lere Olayinka, Wike said: “The suspended FCTA Executive Secretary was not appointed as a Muslim and anyone trying to cover his suspension with the garment of religion will be doing a disservice to religious harmony in the country.”

In a statement, Olayinka pointed out that “just as it is not obligatory for he who appoints to give reasons for appointing, it will also not be obligatory for he who suspends to tell the public reasons for suspending as long as the person suspended knows his offence.

“Most importantly, the position of the FCDA Executive Secretary is not a family chieftaincy title and the business of the office once occupied by Shehu Ahmad Hadi is running perfectly.”

While calling the attention of Prof Akintola to Prophet Mohammad’s (PBUH) position on obedience to authorities, Olayinka said; “I doubt if Prof Akintola is aware that on the authority of Abu Huraira, it was narrated that Prophet Mohammad (PBUH) said; ‘It is obligatory for you to listen to the ruler and obey him in adversity and prosperity, in pleasure and displeasure, and even when another person is given (rather undue) preference over you.’

“If Prof Akintola is aware of this and has imbibed it, he will simply counsel the suspended FCTA Executive Secretary to accept his fate as a Muslim, rather than this seeming sponsorship of media attacks against the Minister and fanning the embers of religious discord.”

Judiciary Workers To Occupy Abia Streets, Over Minimum Wage

By
Suleiman Anyalewechi
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Judiciary Workers Strike

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

Effective December 30, 2024, the Abia State Chapter of the Judiciary Service Union of Nigeria JUSUN, said it will march on, and occupy major streets of  Umuahia, the State Capital, to draw attention to the alleged State Government’s insincerity in handling some issues bordering on their welfare.

Similarly, come Thursday January 2, 2025, the umbrella body of judiciary workers, will  be reactivating its earlier suspended industrial action to press home its demands.

In a notice of strike action  jointly issued on Tuesday, December 24, 2024, by Prince  Chinedu Eze and Chibueze Nwachukwu, Chairman and Secretary respectively, JUSUN warned that both actions will be indefinite.

The Source reports that about three months ago, the body had embarked on a strike action over what, it said was the unwillingness of the State Government to meet its demands, particularly concerning the payments of gratuities and other entitlements to its members.

However, the  Union was to call off the action after  few days, following an agreement  reached with the Abia state Government.

But in its statement, JUSUN expressed deep concern over what it termed a deliberate attempt to denigrate and undermine the Judiciary as an independent arm of the Government by agents of the state authorities.

The union alleged that the State Government has deliberately refused to honour all the terms of the agreement reached between both parties,

including the issues bordering on the N 70,000 new minimum wage .

“JUSUN has observed that there is a calculated attempt by the agents of the State Government to denigrate the Judiciary, the third arm of Government, and deliberate plan to erode and undermine the autonomy and financial independence of the Judiciary as enshrined in the Constitution and affirmed by the Federal High Court by State agents who have taken joy in breaking all agreement we entered with them ,including the flagrant refusal to implement the N70,000 new minimum wage for Judiciary workers ,even with all entities from stakeholders.

“In the light of these developments, we hereby invite our members to an indefinite peaceful protest on all major streets in Umuahia from Monday December, 30, 2024, and the resumption of the suspended strike from Thursday January ,2,2025, if our salaries for November and  December 2024, based on the N70,000 new minimum wage and other entitlement “kidnapped” by the agents of Government are not released to the Heads of the Courts by midnight of December 29, 2024.

“Our members are by this notice directed to assemble at the gate of High Court Headquarters on the morning of December 30,2024 dressed in black attire with union’s cap and or t-shirt” part of the notice of protest reads.”

The Source reports that the organized labour in the State is having issues with the State authorities over the computation of the consequential adjustments components of the new minimum wage .

The State Governor, Dr Alex Otti, has, however, directed the State Accountant General to resolve the issues involved.

PSC Approves Appointment Of Six State Commissioners

By
The Source
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DIG Hashimu Argungu - PSC Chairman

The Police Service Commission has approved the appointment and posting of six new Commissioners of Police. The appointments and postings were sequel to the recent promotions in the Nigeria Police Force released by the Commission last week.

In the new appointments, CP Shettima  Jauro Mohammed was posted to Nasarawa state Command; Rabin  Mohamned,  now CP, Kaduna State Command and Adepoju Olugbenga Adewale posted to Rivers State Command.

Others are; Mohammed Baba Azare, now CP, Rivers State Command; Wilfred  Olatokunbo Afolabi new CP Ondo State Command and Joseph Eribo, former CP, Akwa Ibom State now moved to Ekiti State as the new CP Ekiti State Command.

Commission Chairman, DIG Hashimu Argungu rtd, mni said the new appointees should see their appointments as call to national service.

He implored them to be committed to Government’s drive to Stablize the nation and effectively ensure that our states are free of crime and criminality.

DIG Argungu said the Commission will continue to monitor their progress report and will encourage them to succeed in their new endeavours. He charged them to reciprocate Government’s gesture by rededicating themselves to the service of their fatherland.

Customs Bows To Pressure; Dismantles Joint Border Patrol Team JBPT

By
Suleiman Anyalewechi
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Bashir Adewale Adeniyi - Customs CGC

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

 

The Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, has dissolved its Joint  Border Patrol Team, JBPT, across the country.

 

This is even as the Comptroller General, CGC, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi , approved the immediate  reduction in the number of Customs Checkpoints on  border routes.

 

A statement on Tuesday December, 24 ,2024 by its National spokesperson, Abdullahi  Maiwada ACS ,informed that the decision to scale down the number of checkpoints is aimed at improving trade facilitations, particularly along the country’s borders.

 

However, the Service has assured that the new policy will never compromise the fight against smuggling and other unwholesome activities on the borders.

 

According to him, the move is part of a wider plan to strengthen border management as contained in the Service’s 2025 operational framework.

 

“This strategy is aimed at removing bottlenecks associated with trade, strengthening border security ,combating smuggling and facilitating legitimate trade .

 

Consequently, the Comptroller General of Customs ,CGC , Bashir Adewale Adeniyi ,has approved the reduction of Customs checkpoints across the country to streamline operations and ease the movement of goods and persons .

 

Moving forward , Customs operations will rely more on actionable intelligence and strategic risk management framework to enhance efficiency and effectiveness”, the statement noted.

 

The NCS, Maiwada noted, is deploying geospatial tools and advanced technologies to ensure the effectiveness of its enforcement strategies.

 

The development, he stated, underscores the Service’s commitment to leveraging innovative, intelligence-driven approaches for effective border enforcement and anti-smuggling.

 

The Source reports that over the years, there have been deafening public out- cry against the plethora of Customs Checkpoints that dot the country,’s border routes.

 

Most of the complains have centred on alleged extortionist tendencies and frustrations of legitimate trading activities by operatives of the multiple checkpoints.

 

The NCS in the statement, said that the decision to discard the JBPT, was reached after  due consultations with the Office of the National Security Adviser, ONSA

 

“This operation which commenced in 2019 with a code name ” Ex-Swift Response ,and later evolved into JBPT, was initially designed to enforce the partial border closure policy.

 

Since its inception ,the JBPT has played a pivotal role in curbing the influx of dangerous goods and ensuring compliance with Nigeria’s trade and security regulations.

 

The NCS acknowledges and deeply appreciates the cooperation and dedication of other Government agencies that partnered in this endeavour.

 

Their invaluable ,contributions have been instrumental in safeguarding Nigeria,s land borders.

 

” The Service assures the general public and stakeholders that these measures will not compromise border security or trade facilitations.

 

“Rather, they. represent a significant step towards  modernizing Customs operations ,improving trade compliance and strengthening national security”, NCS stated.

Ex Ooni’s Wife, Naomi, Ace Broadcaster, Hamzat To Celebrate Christmas In Prison

By
Ayodele Oni
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Ibadan Children party stampede and Naomi Silekunola arrested

By Ayodele Oni

A Chief Magistrate Court sitting in Ibadan, Oyo State Capital on Tuesday remanded in prison custody an ex wife of Ooni of Ife, Naomi Silekunola; ace broadcaster, Oriyomi Hazmat and the principal of Islamic High School, Bashorun, Mr Abdullahi Fasasi.

They were being linked with the death of 35 children during a stampede which happened in Ibadan on Wednesday last week during a children’s funfair organized by Ooni’s wife in partnership with the veteran broadcaster.

During their arraignment, the Chief Magistrate, Bisi Ogunkanmi remanded the three defendants on four-count bordering on conspiracy and murder.

However, the three defendants have pleaded not guilty to the charges.The court adjourned the matter till January 13,2025.

The former Ooni’s wife and Hamzat had earlier been reported to have collapsed and hospitalized after the incident.

Alleged Unprofessional Misconduct: LPDC Rejects Afe Babalola’s Bid To Derobe Dele Farotimi

By
Ayodele Oni
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Afe Babalola and Dele Farotimi

By Ayodele Oni

Citing jurisdictional limitations, the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee (LPDC) has rejected request by Chief Afe Babalola SAN’s law firm, Emmanuel Chambers, to revoke the law practicing license of controversial lawyer and author, Tomilola Titus Farotimi, also known as Dele Farotimi, over allegations of criminal defamation and professional misconduct.

Farotimi was brought before the LPDC based on a petition authored by Mr. Ola Faro, a lawyer in Emmanuel Chambers.

The petition had alleged that Farotimi, in his book Nigeria and Criminal Justice System, made defamatory statements against the Supreme Court and the legal profession.

The book reportedly referenced suit number SC/146/2006 between Major Muritala Gbadamosi Eletu and HRH Oba Tijani Akinloye and others, claiming corruption, bribery, and other unethical practices involving judicial officers and the legal community.

The petition accused Farotimi of distorting case facts, disrespecting fellow lawyers, and engaging in actions that obstructed justice for personal gain.

Specific grievances included references to a Supreme Court judgment that affected multiple residential estates and subsequent legal proceedings undermining the apex court’s decision.

Emmanuel Chambers claimed that Farotimi’s book violated several sections of the Rules of Professional Conduct for Legal Practitioners 2023 and requested that his name be struck off the Roll of Legal Practitioners.

However, in its report (B8B/LPDC/1571/2024), the LPDC determined that the alleged offences occurred in Farotimi’s capacity as an author, not during his practice as a legal professional.

The LPDC concluded that it lacked jurisdiction to address complaints about publications and advised aggrieved parties to seek redress in regular courts.

The LPDC’s report stated: “The publication is an intellectual property and not a conduct or action committed while practicing as a Legal Practitioner.

“All aggrieved parties who find the publication ‘defamatory’ should ventilate their grievances through the regular courts.”

LPDC Chairman, Justice Isaq Usman Bello, affirmed that the petition could not be granted due to jurisdictional limitations.

President Tinubu Gives Hope Of Brighter Future At Christmas

By
Ayodele Oni
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Bola Tinubu Democracy Day Speech

By Ayodele Oni

President Bola Tinubu has again reassured Nigerians of brighter future as he expressed felicitations to all at Christmas.

A statement personally signed by the president reads “On this joyous Christmas Day, I extend my heartfelt greetings to Christians across Nigeria and worldwide as we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, as narrated in the Holy Scriptures.

“Christmas embodies the fulfilment of divine prophecy and symbolises the triumph of love, peace, and unity. It is a poignant reminder that light can emerge even in the darkest times, bringing solace and hope. This belief resonates with people of all faiths. Indeed, God is with us.

“Recent tragic events in Ibadan, Okija, and Abuja deeply sadden us, and our thoughts are with those who continue to suffer from these heartbreaking incidents.

“We earnestly pray that such misfortunes do not revisit our families and communities and that the lives of innocents are never again cut short.

“I offer my deepest sympathies to the families enduring pain and loss this year, whether from floods, fires, or accidents.

“May we all find comfort and solace in our faith, the support of loved ones, and the abiding presence of Jesus Christ. Our compassionate and merciful God stands with the weak, the brokenhearted, and the sick.

“As we celebrate this blessed season, let us be mindful of those facing difficulties. They are not far from us—our neighbours, family members, and the people we encounter daily, whether in places of worship, markets, offices, or boardrooms.

“Kindness transcends financial status. Those with modest means and those with abundance need a smile or a word of encouragement.

“We must also honour our brave troops, who risk their lives to safeguard our nation. They deserve our prayers and steadfast support.

“Let us extend similar support and prayers to our nation’s leaders. With your backing, we can serve our country diligently and strive for prosperity.

“Nigeria is on a promising path of restoration and progress, with every indication pointing toward a bright future. In the spirit of this season, let us renew our hope and belief in a prosperous Nigeria.

“For those travelling during this festive period, I wish you safe journeys. Rest assured, the government is taking all necessary steps to ensure our transportation routes are secure and convenient.

“We also provide free train services and subsidized road transport costs on 144 routes nationwide to ease your travels. Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and a joyous and prosperous New Year.”

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