Connect with us

Nation

THE STATES

Published

on

President Muhammadu Buhari (left) in a handshake with  Archbishop Anthony Obinna of Owerri Catholic Diocese during a meeting of the President with the leadership of Catholic Bishops' Conference of Nigeria at the Presidential Villa Abuja last Monday

President Muhammadu Buhari (left) in a handshake with Archbishop Anthony Obinna of Owerri Catholic Diocese during a meeting of the President with the leadership of Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria at the Presidential Villa Abuja last Monday

Adamawa

The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) is to deploy
medical doctors, nurses, pharmacists and other medical professionals to Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) camps nationwide.
The Director-General of NYSC, Brig-Gen. Sule Kazaure, made this known while flagging-off the NYSC intervention programme at Damare IDPs camp in Yola.
Kazaure said that the deployment of NYSC to the camps was part of the scheme’s contribution to government’s efforts in assisting the IDPs.
“This programme, which is designed to bring succour to the inmates in this centre, is also intended to compliment government’s efforts towards provision of the welfare needs of members of IDPs nationwide.

FCT

A Kado Grade 1 Area Court has sentenced a 36-year-old
driver, Surajo Zailani, to two months imprisonment for possession of fake currency.
Zailani, a resident of Mpape in the FCT, had pleaded guilty to a one-count charge.
The presiding officer, Malam Abubakar Sadiq, however, gave him an option to pay a fine of N10,000.
Prosecutor Salisu Khaleel had told the court that Sanusi Mohammed of Utako village reported the matter at Utako Police Station on April 14.

Jigawa

The Jigawa State  Government has constituted a task
force to monitor petroleum products allocated to the state to ensure that they were not diverted.
The state’s Commissioner for Information, Youth and Sports, Alhaji Bala Ibrahim, told newsmen  that the committee was set up at the last State Executive Council meeting.
Ibrahim said members were drawn from security agencies, ministries of commerce, information and finance.
According to him, the task force is headed by the Special Adviser to the state Governor on Security, retired Col. Muhammed Hassan.

Kaduna

The Kaduna Judicial Commission of Inquiry recently con
cluded its Public Hearing into the December 12 Shiite/Army clash in Zaria.
The Chairman of the Commission, Justice Muhammed Lawal-Garba announced the end of the public hearing at the panel’s sitting.
The commission had before winding up, heard submissions of the Commandant, Nigerian Army Depot, Zaria, Brig.-Gen. Christopher Musa and three other Commanders on their role during the clash.
Our correspondent  reports that a total of 150 memoranda were submitted to the panel, with testimonies and recommendations from stakeholders..
The Chairman said that the panel may receive other submissions when the need arises.

Kebbi

The Kebbi State  Government has said that it would train
105 youths on technical skill acquisition to enable them start a business of their own.
The Deputy Governor, Alhaji Samaila Yombe, made this known when he visited the state works school in Birinin Kebbi.
The school principal, Garba Danfulani said the youths would be trained on carpentry, automobile mechanic, vulcanizing and computer programming.

Kwara

A Kaiama Area Court in Kwara has dissolved a 14 year-
old marriage between Aishat and Sule Salihu over alleged husband’s rudeness to his mother-in-law.
Aishat, the plaintiff had sought a relief for the dissolution of the marriage that was blessed with three children.
She told the court that she filed the divorce suit as a result of a misunderstanding between her mother and the husband.
The plaintiff said her husband failed to show up for a reconciliation relief granted him earlier by the court.

Lagos

Governor  Akinwunmi Ambode of Lagos State has
named Dolphin Park after the late Dr Tunji Braithwaite, in recognition of his contributions to the political development of Nigeria.
Ambode, who was represented by his deputy, Dr Idiat Adebule, made this known at a special service of songs organised by the Braithwaite family in Lagos.
He said that Braithwaite’s struggle for the emancipation of Nigerians and his daily agitation for improved living condition for the masses was commendable.
“The late Dr Braithwaite gave all his life to the betterment of the lives of the masses; on several occasions he had stood for and defended the rights of the common man.
.
Nasarawa

A Mararaba Upper Area Court in Nasarawa State has
remanded a 22-year-old security man, Ayuba Linus, in Keffi Prison for alleged negligent conduct.
Linus, a resident of Abacha Road, Mararaba, Nasarawa State, was dragged to court by Rachael Doda of the same address on a three-count charge of negligent conduct, housebreaking and theft.
The presiding officer, Vincent Gwehemba, ordered the remand of the accused and adjourned hearing in the case until May 5.
Earlier, the Prosecutor, Sgt. Stephen Kwaza, told the court that on April 22, the defendant allowed unknown persons now at large to break into the complainant’s flat.
Kwaza said that the unknown persons made away with some electronic items.

Ondo

An Okitipupa Magistrates’ Court in Ondo State, has
granted a 25-year-old commercial motorcyclist, Bayo Ikudaisi, N50,000 bail for alleged dangerous riding.
The magistrate, Mr Banji Ayeomoni, also asked the accused to produce two sureties in like sums and evidence of two years’ tax clearance.
Ikudaisi, of no fixed address, had pleaded not guilty to a three- count charge of dangerous driving, driving without driver’s licence and driving unregistered motorcycle popularly called ‘Okada’ on a public highway levelled against him.
The prosecutor, Insp. Zedekiah Orogbemi, had told the court that the accused on March 23 at about 3:00 p.m., along Okitipupa-Igbokoda Road rode on an unregistered Qlink motorcycle in a dangerous manner.

Oyo

The Wife of the President, Mrs Aisha Buhari, has said
that 2,500 women will receive free screening for cancer, diabetes, blood pressure and malaria through her Pet Project, “Future Assumed’’, in Ibadan on Thursday.
Buhari made the disclosure in Ibadan, when she visited Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Salisu Adetunji, in his palace.
She said that the screening had become necessary as it would enable them to know their health status early and improve their health.
She said breast and cervical cancer, blood pressure, diabetes and malaria were major killer diseases across the globe and could be prevented or managed through regular check-ups.

Plateau

The Plateau House of Assembly has extended the tenure of
the Chairmen of Management Committees of the 17 local government areas of the state.
This followed a motion moved at plenary session by the Majority Leader of House and the member representing Shendam constituency, Mr Henry Yenkwap.
Our correspondent, reports that the management committee chairmen, who were appointed in July 2015, have spent over eight months in office.
Our correspondent  also reports that the incumbent chairmen were appointed after those elected during the former PDP-led administration were ousted by Governor Simon Lalong.
Contributing to the motion, the member representing Mikkang constituency, Mr Na’anlong Daniel, urged the House to ensure that the management committee chairmen were accountable.

Sokoto

The Sokoto State Government and UNICEF have signed a
N2.09 billion agreement on a Joint Annual Work Plan in six key areas in the health sector.
Details of the plan, to be executed in 2016, indicated that the agreement would cover health, nutrition, education, water, sanitation and hygiene.
The plan is also expected to accelerate the realization of women and children’s rights to survive, develop, and participate in all activities toward progress and prosperity
According to a statement signed by Governor Aminu Tambuwal’s spokesman, Imam Imam, the state government will contribute N1.083 billion, while UNICEF will provide N 1.006 billion.

Yobe

A Gusau Magistrates’ Court has ordered for the remand of
one Yusuf Rabiu of Nasarawa, Damba Area, Gusau, for allegedly raping a married woman, Hassana Ibrahim of the same address.
Though the accused pleaded not guilty, the Magistrate, Alhaji Umar Abdulnasir, ordered that he should be remanded in prison custody.
The case was adjourned till May 11, for further mention.
The Prosecutor, Sgt. Lawal Isah, had told the court that on April 4, while the complainant’s husband, Ibrahim Isah was away, the accused, armed with knife, flashed torchlight on the complainant’s face.
Isah said that the accused attacked and raped the complainant and also stole her cell phone, valued at N5,000 and escaped.

Zamfara

The Zamfara State office of the National Drug Law and En
forcement Agency (NDLEA) has arrested 63 suspects and confiscated 130.2 kolgrammes (kgs) of various illicit drugs in the first quarter of 2016.
Its commander, Mr Thomas Ejim, disclosed this while briefing newsmen on the arrests of some suspected drug traffickers in Gusau.
Ejim said that the drugs found on them included 24.15kgs of cannabis sativa and 106kgs of various types of psychotropic substances.
According to him, 47 out of the 63 suspects arrested are being counseled by the command while 14 suspects had been convicted.

Continue Reading

Nation

World Health Day: Rivers Govt Urges Regular Medical Check-Ups, Healthy Living

Published

on

The Rivers State Government has called on residents to prioritize regular medical check-ups as part of efforts to promote healthier living and prevent disease.
This message was contained in a statement issued by the Rivers State Ministry of Health in Port Harcourt to commemorate the 2026 World Health Day.
The statement, signed by the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Prof. Justina Jumbo, urged citizens to rely on credible health information from institutions such as the World Health Organization and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control, as well as other verified media outlets.
Jumbo emphasized the importance of adopting scientifically proven health practices, including regular handwashing with soap and clean water for at least 20 seconds, the use of hand sanitizers where necessary, and proper respiratory hygiene such as covering the mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing.
She further advised residents to ensure that children receive routine vaccinations, maintain a balanced diet, reduce the intake of salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats, and consume safe, clean water.
The Permanent Secretary also encouraged regular physical activity, recommending at least 30 minutes of exercise most days, while discouraging prolonged periods of inactivity. She stressed the need for adherence to prescribed treatments, avoidance of tobacco use and harmful drugs, and moderation in alcohol consumption.
In addition, Jumbo highlighted the importance of sleeping under insecticide-treated mosquito nets to prevent malaria, maintaining proper sanitation and waste disposal, and managing stress through adequate rest, relaxation, and social support.
Speaking on this year’s theme, “Together for Health: Stand with Science,” she called on individuals, families, communities, and governments to collaborate and rely on scientific knowledge to improve overall health and well-being.
“Science has helped us achieve remarkable progress in healthcare—from vaccines that protect our children to medicines that treat diseases and public health practices that prevent outbreaks,” she said.
She, however, noted that the benefits of science can only be fully realized when people trust accurate information and make informed health decisions.
“Standing with science means listening to trained health professionals, following proven health guidelines, rejecting misinformation and harmful myths, and supporting vaccination, hygiene, and preventive care,” Jumbo added.
The Permanent Secretary further disclosed that the Ministry of Health, under the leadership of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, has recently employed trained health professionals into the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital and the Hospital Management Board to strengthen healthcare delivery.
She urged residents to make health facilities their first point of call whenever they experience any health challenges and called for greater support for healthcare workers who continue to dedicate their lives to saving others.
By John Bibor
Continue Reading

Nation

Rumuji Youth Leader Condemns Protest, Disowns Alleged Government Empowerment Claim

Published

on

The Youth President of Rumuji Community in Emohua Local Government Area of Rivers State, Hon. Emeka S. Igwe, has condemned the recent protest to the Government House and Greenville NLNG Limited, allegedly instigated by one Anele Ogbu.
In a press statement signed by him and made available to journalists in Port Harcourt, Igwe dissociated the Rumuji community from the protest, describing it as counterproductive and not sanctioned by his office.
He also dismissed claims that the Rivers State Government is planning to empower over 100 youths in Odegu Kingdom and other communities in Emohua Local Government Area, stating that he has no knowledge of such an initiative.
Igwe warned Anele Ogbu to desist from actions capable of inciting unrest in the area, alleging that misleading information has been consistently circulated to deceive unsuspecting members of the public.
He expressed concern over what he described as a growing trend of misinformation, noting that if the purported government empowerment programme were genuine, it would have been officially communicated through appropriate government channels.
According to him, as the youth president of Rumuji, he would have been duly informed and mobilised youths from the community to participate in such a programme if it truly existed.
Igwe further questioned the credibility of the claims, arguing that an initiative of such magnitude targeting at least 100 youths per community across Emohua would not be disseminated informally by a single individual.
He reiterated that the protest did not emanate from his office and maintained that Anele Ogbu lacked the authority to mobilise youths on behalf of the Rumuji community.
The youth leader also alleged that an ongoing arson case involving Ogbu has contributed to tension and unrest in the community, further deepening divisions among residents.
He explained that the purpose of the statement was to clarify the situation, correct what he described as false narratives, and calm rising tensions in the area.
Igwe urged parents and guardians to caution their wards against being misled into participating in activities that could lead to unnecessary conflicts.
He also advised the general public to verify information from credible sources before acting on it, stressing the need for vigilance in the face of increasing misinformation.
“It is important for people to ask critical questions and avoid being drawn into actions that may have serious consequences,” he said.
The Rumuji youth president reaffirmed his commitment to promoting peace and constructive engagement within the community.
John Bibor
Continue Reading

Nation

Haniel Jack Foundation Awards Five Rivers Indigenes Scholarship

Published

on

The Ibanibo Haniel Jack Foundation has awarded scholarships to five Rivers State indigenes in different tertiary institutions.

The scholarship programme was announced on Easter Sunday by Rev. Dr. Samuel Wachukwu, who is also the presiding pastor of Redeemer Baptist Church, at No. 44/46 Lumumba Street, Mile Two Diobu, in Port Harcourt.

Speaking, the chairman of the occasion, Barrister Karibi George, advised the recipients to justify the scholarship by ensuring that they put in their best and finish at the expected time.

George reminded them that opportunity comes but once and they should take advantage of the opportunity that comes their way judiciously.

“Those of you who are beneficiaries of this scholarship should also remember to help others and the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ.

“I advise you to justify the opportunity given to you and make the man who gave you the scholarship, yourself, and your family proud,” Barrister George said.

He explained that the scholarship spans undergraduate and postgraduate levels in various high institutions in Nigeria. He thanks Sir Jack for the gesture.

The scholarship is to promote education in our society, most especially for Rivers indigenes, and equally assist those who cannot immediately afford tuition fees.

It will interest you to know that
The scholarship was borne out of God’s blessings, and this is a way to give back to the society. Besides, two of the beneficiaries are direct employees of the chairman of the foundation, sir.
Ibanibo Haniel Jack, who is also the chief executive officer (CEO) of White House Hotel, in Port Harcourt.

Chief Prezi Diffa, while presenting the awards, commended Sir Ibanibo Haniel Jack, who has deemed it necessary to give back to society.

Chief Diffa equally advised the beneficiaries to take their academics seriously and count themselves lucky.

“The man who has given you this scholarship wants to better your lives, so please put in every effort to ensure you finish the school with flying colors,” Chief Diffa said.

The beneficiaries are Isoboye Haniel Douglas, Naomi Douglas, Charles Batubo, Ajé Sokari, and
Dakoru Owen Amachree.

 

Tonye Orabere

Continue Reading

Trending