Nation
THE STATES
Benue
Justice Theresa Igoche of Makurdi High Court in Benue State
has sentenced two students, Vershima Kaachi and Akaazua Akpen, to death by
firing squad for armed robbery.
The convicts were arrested on the eve of Christmas in 2007
for criminal conspiracy and armed robbery, contrary to Sections 5(b) and 1(2)
of the Robbery and Firearms Act Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 1990.
In his testimony, the victim of the offence, Jonathan
Usenge, told the court that five armed men came to his house, attacked and
robbed him of some valuable items on that day.
He stated that the robbers collected his Nokia 1600 phone
valued N12,700.00, two torch lights valued N350.00 and a sum of N16,500.
Gombe
Gombe State Governor, Ibrahim Dankwambo has urged the 2,555
intending Muslim pilgrims from the state to shun vices and be good ambassadors
of the country while in Saudi Arabia.
Dankwambo made the call in his farewell address to the
pilgrims at the Hajj camp, Lawanti in Akko Local Government Area of the state.
The governor enjoined them to exhibit exemplary character
and cooperate with Hajj officials to ensure a hitch-free exercise.
“As usual, government has subsidised Hajj fares for all
intending pilgrims from the state.
Jigawa
A lawmaker, Abdullahi Sarki, says he has set up an
enlightenment committee in Miga Local Government Council of Jigawa State to
sensitise communities on flood disaster.
Sarki (PDP-Miga constituency) told newsmen in Dutse that the
committee was gathering data on weather predictions by the Nigeria Metrological
Agency (NIMET) and would disseminate the information to rural communities.
He said that the exercise was aimed at educating the
communities on the and precautionary measures to be taken to mitigate the
effects of flood disaster.
The legislator added that he had also distributed relief
materials to displaced persons in the affected communities in his constituency.
Kaduna
The Kaduna State Government has evacuated 118 Kaduna State
students from Mubi, following the recent killing of some students at the
Federal Polytechnic, Mubi in Adamawa.
The Senior Special Assistant on Students Affairs to Governor
Patrick Yakowa, Mr Bagudu Joseph, said the evacuation followed a Save-Our-Souls
(SOS) message by the students over a 14-hours ultimatum by the school
authorities for students to vacate the campus.
Joseph said the government had employed the services of the
Adamawa Sunshine Transport Company to move the students out of the state.
He said that 82 of the students returned to Kaduna while the
others alighted in Jos, Saminaka and other places where their families resided.
Kano
The Kano State Police Command Have Arrested Eight Suspected
Gunmen In Connection With The Killing Of The Two Policemen.
The State Police Commissioner, Mr. Ibrahim Idris, confirmed
the arrest of the suspects to newsmen in Kano, saying that they were in an
uncompleted building at Kofar Dawanau quarters in Dala local government area of
the state.
“The area was condoned off by the security operatives and we
succeeded in arresting eight suspects.
‘’Three AK 47 rifles were recovered from the uncompleted
building where the suspects were arrested.’’
Kwara
The Kwara State Government has said it would ensure a
successful hosting of the 26th National Festival of Arts and Culture (NAFEST)
billed for between October 13 and October 20 in Ilorin.
The state’s Commissioner for Social Development, Culture and
Tourism, Mrs Rahmat Adeshina-Abaya, said this in an interview with newsmen.
She said everything was being put in place, especially the
provision of accommodation for more than 7,000 people coming from different
parts of the country.
“ As you know that Kwara is a state of harmony, peaceful and
accommodating, we are hosting NAFEST in which we are ready for about 7,000
people that are coming from different parts of the country.
Kogi
The Deputy Governor of Kogi State, Mr Yomi AwoniyI, has said
that the state has now come to terms with the reality of the level of damage
done to it by the flood.
This is contained in a statement issued by his Press
Secretary, Mr Michael Abu, in Lokoja.
It stated that Awoniyi made the observation when he made
another round of visit to flooded areas in the state.
He said that the process of rebuilding the washed-away
roads, providing nets, fishing boats among other items to enable the displaced
persons to resettle after the flood remained enormous.
According to him, Ibaji Local Government Area has been
completely cut off from the other parts of the state.
Lagos
Former Head of State, Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar (rtd), has
urged members of the public in Niger to report criminals to security agencies.
Abubakar made the call in Lapai, Niger, after the Board of
Trustees meeting of foundation endowment fund for the Ibrahim Badamasi
Babangida University.
The former Head of state is the chairman of the board.
The call followed the recent killing of three policemen by
unknown persons in Minna, the Niger State capital.
“It is unfortunate that we have decided to go and start
killing ourselves unnecessarily; all the criminals are among us.
Nasarawa
Nasarawa State Government has expressed its commitment to
restore water supply to Keffi Local Government Area and environs.
The Nasarawa State Commissioner of Water Resources and Rural
Development, Mr Samuel Alu, said this in Garaku during an inspection visit to
the site of the ongoing rehabilitation of pipes.
He said that the state government had awarded contract for
the rehabilitation of the pipes to SCC Nigeria Limited and that the company was
given one week to complete the work.
While assuring the people of the government’s commitment to
fulfil its campaign promises, Alu said that the work would be completed within
one week.
Ogun
The management of Moshood Abiola Polytechnic (MAPOLY),
Abeokuta, Ogun State has absolved itself of complicity in the N1.1billion
alleged scam reported in the institution’s branch of Non Academic Staff Union
(NASU).
The institution’s spokesman, Mr Sulaimon Adebiyi, said in a
statement in Abeokuta that no member of the institution’s management was linked
to the alleged scam.
He said three executive members of the school’s branch of
NASU were arrested by EFCC operatives for allegedly mismanaging N1.1billion.
The money, which was secured as loan from a consortium of
banks by the union, was to be given as loans to members.
Osun
A 28-year-old man, Suleiman Hasssan, has appeared before an
Osogbo Senior Magistrates’ Court in Osun State, charged with inflicting teeth
bites on two police officers, who were discharging their duties.
The police Prosecutor, Insp. Solomon Oladele, told the court
that the accused on October 4, at about 5 p.m. at Oluode Area of Osogbo
assaulted Sergeant Afolabi Taofeek and Corporal Adetula Samuel, while resisting
arrest.
Oladele said the officers were on assignment to arrest the
accused when he was reported for being in possession of hard drugs, but that he
turned violent and in his bid to resist arrest bit the officers thereby
inflicted injuries on them.
He added that the accused was also found in possession of
weeds, suspected to be Indian hemp when he was finally arrested.
He said the offence committed was contrary to and punishable
under section 356 and 430(1) of the Criminal Code cap 34 Vol. 11 Laws of Osun
2003.
Oyo
The Oyo State Government has appealed to the Federal
Government to increase its education intervention fund to accommodate the large
number of pupils in the state.
The Deputy Governor of the state, Mr Moses Adeyemo made the
appeal in Ibadan while receiving the Senate Committee on Education led by Sen.
Uche Chuckwumerije.
“The state appeals for the raising of the education
intervention fund given to us so as to accommodate our large number of
pupils,’’ Adeyemo said.
He said the appeal was necessary for development to thrive,
adding that education was the bedrock of meaningful development in any society.
Plateau
Plateau State Governor, Jonah Jang has approved the
appointment of Mr Francis Bot as his Chief of Staff.
The Director of Press Affairs to the Governor, Mr James
Manok, said in a statement in Jos that
Bot’s appointment was with immediate effect.
Our correspondent reports that Bot replaced Mr Gyang Pwajok,
who resigned in September to contest the Plateau North Senate seat.
Pwajok won the election held on Saturday.
Until his appointment, Bot was the state Coordinator,
Millennium Development Goals.
Sokoto
The Chairman Of The Nigeria Bar Association (Nba), Sokoto
State Chapter, Alhaji Mustapha Abubakar, Has Called On The Federal Government
to identify the sources of arms importation in the country.
He told newsmen in Sokoto that this would serve as a measure
to checkmate illegal possession of arms as well as put an end to the senseless
killings going on in parts of the country.
“ I strongly suggest that a high powered committee of
seasoned security personnel should be constituted to find out all those
involved in illegal arms importation.”
The Head of the Department of Anatomy at the University of Port Harcourt’s College of Health Sciences, Prof Gabriel Sunday Oladipo, has underscored the urgent need for Nigeria to develop a comprehensive forensic science infrastructure, warning that the nation’s ability to investigate and solve crime is being hampered by lack of scientific data and systems.
In his inaugural lecture titled, “Man: Fearfully Different, Wonderfully Made,” delivered as part of the 207th Inaugural Lecture Series of the university, Prof Oladipo highlighted that while no two individuals are exactly the same, the country currently lacks the robust systems needed to collect and manage biological and anthropometric data that could support criminal investigations.
He explained that the natural variations among humans — from fingerprints to physical measurements — form the foundation of personal identification in forensic work. These biological differences, he said, are essential for distinguishing one person from another, especially in the context of criminal investigations where clarity of identity can mean the difference between justice and impunity. Without this scientific foundation, he argued, law enforcement agencies lack a critical tool in the fight against crime.
Experts have noted that Nigeria’s forensic science capacity has historically lagged behind needs, with only a few forensic facilities available and many law enforcement agencies struggling to access or use scientific evidence effectively. One review of the state of forensic investigation in Nigeria found that outdated facilities and limited adoption of modern forensic methods have left many cases unsolved or poorly investigated, even as crime rates rise across the country.
In Lagos, efforts to improve forensic capabilities have focused on DNA analysis, with the Lagos State DNA Forensic Centre — the first of its kind in West Africa — providing critical support for criminal investigations and helping to identify human remains, link related cases, and assist with paternity testing. However, such initiatives are yet to be replicated at a national scale, leaving many regions without access to these vital scientific tools.
Prof Oladipo’s lecture went beyond academic theory to propose concrete actions. He called for the establishment of a National Institute of Forensic Science responsible for creating and managing a nationwide anthropometric and forensic data bank. This repository, he stressed, would significantly enhance Nigeria’s capacity to track crime, assist law enforcement agencies, and improve the administration of justice by providing reliable scientific evidence for investigative and legal processes.
He also highlighted the importance of strengthening research and training in forensic science. Many Nigerian universities currently lack the funding and infrastructure to offer complete undergraduate or postgraduate programs in areas such as forensic anthropology, DNA analysis, and crime scene investigation, a gap that forces aspiring experts to rely on collaborations with institutions abroad. By fostering a research-friendly environment and securing greater support from both government and private sectors, Nigerian institutions could produce homegrown experts capable of advancing forensic science in the country.
Awareness of forensic science’s role in criminal justice remains low among the general public and even among some security professionals. Studies have shown that a significant portion of Nigerians are unfamiliar with basic forensic concepts or the existence of tools such as DNA profiling and national forensic databases — tools that are common features of criminal justice systems in countries like South Africa and the United Kingdom.
Prof Oladipo also urged regular training and retraining programs to keep forensic practitioners updated with evolving scientific methods. According to him, continuous professional development is critical in a field where technological advances — from biometric databases to digital forensic tools — are transforming how crimes are investigated and solved.
The lecture was attended by academics, students, and professionals drawn to the intersection of science, identity, and justice, all of whom heard the professor make a compelling case for scientific innovation and institutional reform as central to Nigeria’s effort to contain crime and strengthen its justice system.
The event not only showcased Prof Oladipo’s expertise in human anatomy and forensic psychology but also positioned forensic science as a strategic national priority — one that could bring clarity to investigations, support victims and their families, and ultimately enhance public safety across Nigeria.
The University of Port Harcourt Women Association (UPWA) on Thursday staged a vibrant and memorable edition of its Annual Inter-House Sports Competition at the University of Port Harcourt Sports Village, drawing an impressive turnout of pupils, parents, staff and invited guests.
The event, organised by the UPWA International Group of Schools, brought together children from the pre-nursery, nursery and secondary sections in a colourful celebration of youth athleticism, discipline and teamwork. The arena came alive with cheers and excitement as pupils, clad in their various house colours, marched in a ceremonial parade before proceeding to compete in a wide range of track and field events, relays, novelty races and other team-based activities designed to promote physical fitness and healthy competition.
Declaring the competition open, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Port Harcourt, Professor Owunari Georgewill, commended UPWA for sustaining a tradition that continues to nurture young talents beyond the classroom. He noted that sports remain a critical component of holistic education, helping to build resilience, confidence, leadership skills and social interaction among children.
In her remarks, the President of UPWA, Professor Udeme Georgewill, expressed appreciation to parents, teachers and members of the organising committee for their dedication and sacrifice in ensuring the success of the programme despite prevailing economic challenges. She described the event as a reflection of unity and collective effort within the school community.
“This is the first time White House is emerging overall winner, and that shows remarkable improvement and great sportsmanship,” she said. “We all had fun. It is not easy putting an event like this together considering the economic situation, but we are grateful to the parents for being part of this journey. The excitement everywhere is truly heartwarming.”
The competition featured spirited participation from the various houses, including Purple House, San Chicago Red House and White House, with pupils demonstrating strength, speed, coordination and teamwork. Parents and supporters filled the stands, cheering enthusiastically and adding colour to the spectacle, while teachers ensured orderliness and safety throughout the proceedings.
Professor Georgewill emphasized that the true essence of sports lies not merely in winning trophies but in participation and personal growth. “Sports is not just about winning. It is an avenue for growth, discipline and opportunity. The fact that a child is able to participate is already a win. Losing this year does not mean you cannot win next year. Keep trying,” she encouraged, urging pupils to see both victory and defeat as stepping stones to greater achievements.
She further observed that while there are many competing interests in the Nigerian sports sector, consistent grassroots investment remains essential for discovering and nurturing future champions.
The colourful ceremony culminated in medal presentations, trophy awards and group photographs, with UPWA executives, including Vice President I, Professor Adedamola Onyeaso, joining the participating teams to celebrate the day’s achievements.
The annual inter-house sports competition continues to stand as one of UPWA’s flagship events, reinforcing its commitment to balanced education, character formation and the promotion of healthy lifestyles among its pupils.
-
Politics4 days agoSenate Urges Tinubu To Sack CAC Boss
-
News4 days agoAmend Constitution To Accommodate State Police, Tinubu Tells Senators
-
News4 days agoDisu Takes Over As New IGP …Declares Total War On Corruption, Impunity
-
Business4 days ago
Crisis Response: EU-project Delivers New Vet. Clinic To Katsina Govt.
-
Business4 days ago
President Tinubu Approves Extension Ban On Raw Shea Nut Export
-
Business4 days ago
President Tinubu Extends Raw Shea Nuts Export Ban To 2027
-
Business4 days ago
Fidelity Bank To Empower Women With Sustainable Entrepreneurship Skills, HAP2.0
-
Sports4 days ago
NDG: Rivers Coach Appeal To NDDC In Talent Discovery