Nation
THE STATES
Benue
Governor Samuel Ortom of Benue State has warned former
police chief, Alhaji Abubakar Tsav, to stop playing politics with the death of Tiv paramount ruler, the late Dr Alfred Akawe Torkula.
This is contained in a statement signed by Mr Terver Akase, the Senior Special Assistant to the governor on Media made available to newsmen in Makurdi.
Our correspondent reports that Tsav, a former Commissioner of Police in Lagos, had in the Authority Daily Newspaper of December 28 condemned the governor for “lavish Christmas celebration” at his country home while the Tor Tiv was yet be buried.
However, the governor said that Tsav had lost touch with the current happenings in the state and should not be taken seriously as the entire state had officially mourned the late Tiv ruler for three days.
Borno
The Borno State Police Command has confirmed the death
of scores of people after a suspected bomb blast near a mosque in Silimanti on the outskirt of Maiduguri.
Mr Victor Isuku, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), gave the confirmation while speaking with newsmen in Maiduguri.
“I can confirm to you that the incident happened in the early hours of Monday.
“But I cannot give you the casualty figures as aid workers are still counting,’’ Isuku said.
However, some residents claimed that at least 20 persons were killed.
Malam Bukar Idris a resident of the area said:“ I was lucky to have escaped the attack because I left the place few minutes to fetch something in my house for a friend at the gathering.
“But I lost two childhood friends Mallam Modu Bushara and Mallam Shehu Sawab, ’’ Idris said, adding that he counted at least 20 dead bodies before the arrival of aids workers at the scene.
FCT
The Coordinator, Open Forum on Agriculture Biotechnology
in Africa (OFAB), Mrs Rose Gidado, has urged the Federal Government to take advantage of the frontiers attained in biotechnology to address unemployment.
Gidado, who is the coordinator of the Nigerian chapter of OFAB, made the call in an interview with newsmen in Abuja recently.
According to her, biotechnology can provide 25, 000 job opportunities yearly in Nigeria if properly handled.
She said that Nigerian farmers and the country stood to gain from the adoption of biotechnology.
She said that biotechnology had great potential in promoting the production of high quality seeds for farmers for better yields.
Gombe
Governor Ibrahim Dankwambo of Gombe State has
inaugurated the College of Education in Billiri, saying that government spent N1.6 billion on its permanent site.
Dankwambo gave assurance that government would provide the necessary facilities to train qualified teachers to ensure sound education for students of the college.
“Government will do all within its means to ensure that this college meets all the accreditation requirements by the National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE), JAMB and TETFUND.
“As part of this commitment, government has paid the sum of N5 million as registration fees with the NCCE, “ he said.
Dankwambo said that the government would fund the college with a monthly grant of N30 million.
Jigawa
Governor Muhammad Badaru of Jigawa State on
December 29 begun a ten-day Annual Leave for 2015.
This is contained in a statement issued in Dutse by his Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Malam Bello Zaki.
The statement said during the Governor’s absence, his Deputy, Alhaji Ibrahim Hassan, would serve as acting Governor.
It said the Governor thanked the people of the state for the support and cooperation they gave him since the inception of his administration.
He also assured the people of his administration’s commitment to their welfare and security.
He pledged to continue to introduce policies and programmes that would have “direct bearings on the people,” the statement said.
Kaduna
No fewer than 150 Muslim youths and Imams worshipped
together with Christians during Christmas service in Kaduna to strengthen peace, unity and religious tolerance in the state.
Pastor Yohanna Buru, the General Overseer of Christ Evangelical Intercessary Fellowship Ministry led the service in Kaduna.
He said that the prayer was to promote peaceful co-existence among different faith organisations “and to shun ethno-religious and political differences affecting the state for decades.’’
Buru said “more than 150 Muslims youths and Imams, traditional title holders and various groups attended Christmas service with their brother Christians in order to promote peace and harmony and religious tolerance across the state.
Katsina
Farmers in Kankara Local Government Area of Katsina State
have appealed to Governor Aminu Masari to include the dredging of Mashigi dam in Malumfashi supply project.
The leader of the farmers, Alhaji Abdulaziz Bafullatani-Mashigi, made the call in an interview with newsmen in Malumfashi recently.
He commended Masari for awarding the N142 million Malumfashi township water supply project, adding that the project would ease water scarcity problems and create jobs for the people.
He said water scarcity had increased household expenses in the area and forced the people to resort to the use of untreated water for domestic needs.
Kogi
The factional Speaker of Kogi State House of Assembly,
Mr Godwin Osiyi (PDP-Ogori-Magongo), has reaffirmed the position of 17 members that the embattled speaker, Alhaji Momoh-Jimoh Lawal remains impeached.
Addressing newsmen in Lokoja, Osiyi said that the impeachment, carried out on Dec. 10 during plenary, through the resolution of the 17-member-signatories still stood.
He said that contrary to insinuations from different quarters, the impeachment of Lawal (PDP-Okene II) was not influenced by anyone.
According to him, the impeachment is premised on six grounds arising from general feeling of discontentment among members.
Kwara
Rep. Funke Adedoyin (APC—Ekiti, Oke-Ero, Isin,
Irepodun) has distributed food and clothing materials worth N7 million to the people of her constituency in Kwara.
Adedoyin, who distributed the items in Omu-Aran, headquarters of Irepodun Local Government Area, said the initiative was her contribution to improving the wellbeing of her constituents.
Our correspondent reports that beneficiaries included artisans, market women, community leaders and party stalwarts.
She said the donation was also aimed at bringing succour to the people during the Christmas and New Year festivities.
Lagos
A 25-year-old unemployed man, Kamoru Yusuf, has been
arraigned before an Ikeja Magistrates’ Court for allegedly breaking into an apartment and stealing property worth N150,000.
Yusuf, who resides at No. 8, Olorunisola St., Oshodi, Lagos is being tried for burglary and stealing.
The Prosecutor, Insp. Uche Simon, told the court that the accused committed the offences on Nov.15, at No. 10, Odofi St., Ijaiye, Ojokoro, Lagos.
He said that the accused burgled the residence of one Mr Jude Akamigbo and stole his property valued at N150,000.
“The accused unlawfully entered into the complainant’s apartment less than an hour after the complainant travelled for a business trip and stole his valuables,” he said.
Ondo
No fewer than 50 beds and pillows have been donated by
Omowa Club of Ikale land to the Ondo State Specialist Hospital, Okitipupa.
Our correspondent reports that Mr Benson Akindeju, President of the club, presented the materials to Dr Richard Ikuemelo, Deputy Chief Medical Director of the hospital, on Tuesday.
He said the donation was part of the club’s social responsibility, adding that the club had been doing this over the years.
“We feel the hospital needs very clean bed sheets because we had once visited here and I didn’t feel very comfortable with what I saw.
“We observed that the hospital can make do with clean pillow cases and bed sheets, so that the patients can lay comfortably on their beds, hence this timely and prompt donation,’’ Akindeju said.
Osun
Magistrate Bose Awosan of the Modakeke Chief
Magistrates’ Court has sentenced one Tajudeen Kehinde, 40, to 12 months imprisonment for stealing two bags of cocoa beans.
Awosan, in her judgment, held that Kehinde was convicted based on the evidence before her and the plea of guilt.
“The convict is hereby sentenced to 12 months imprisonment for the two-count charge.
“It is my hope that this will serve as a deterrent to others with similar motive,” she said.
Oyo
The Bishop of Ibadan Diocese, Most Rev. Joseph
Akinfenwa, has advised Christians not to deviate from the commandments of God and virtues promoted by Jesus Christ.
Akinfenwa gave the advice at St. James Cathedral, Oke-Bola, Ibadan, in his sermon to mark the Christmas celebration.
He said the challenges of life were not enough to be disobedient to the teachings of Jesus Christ.
“Always remember that God the saviour never fails. He is in charge and can overcome any problem you are passing through.
“I hope next year will be better than this year by the grace of God.
The Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC) Port Harcourt zonal command has held a one-day capacity workshop with some selected media organisations and civil society organisations in the state
The one-day capacity workshop was aimed at strengthening existing relationships among the media and the civil society organisations in the state with a view to improving the existing relationships among the graft agency and the media.
Speaking at the event the zonal commander of EFCC, MR. HASSAN SAIDU, said the
initiative is part of the Commission’s ongoing commitment to strengthening collaboration with key stakeholders, particularly the media and civil society, in our collective fight against economic and financial crimes , adding that the decision to organize this workshop underscores the strategic importance the EFCC places on the roles of the media and the CSOs as watchdogs of the society.
According to him,all over the world, the partnership between anti-corruption agencies, the media, and civil society has been instrumental in promoting transparency, accountability, and good governance, noting that the collaboration is even more imperative in Nigeria given the scale and sophistication of economic crimes we contend with.
“Let me take this opportunity to acknowledge and appreciate the invaluable support you have given to the EFCC over the years.
Your consistent focus on our work through reporting, advocacy, and public engagement has helped to sustain the momentum of our preventive and enforcement efforts.”
The EFCC’s mandate is both engaging and arduous. I say this because the landscape of economic crime is dynamic and your duty to report and interpret these developments requires diligence, patriotism and integrity.”
He posted that It is in recognition of these challenges that the Commission introduced a Specialized Workshop Series on Economic and Financial Crimes Reporting for journalists, adding that the commission has expanded this initiative to include civil society organizations to further demonstrate their belief in an inclusive and collaborative anti-corruption framework.
“As you are aware, Port Harcourt remains Nigeria’s treasure base of the Nation and a fertile ground for various forms of economic and financial crimes, ranging from pipeline vandalism, foreign exchange scams and business email compromise to investment and property fraud, and crude oil theft.”
The EFCC zonal commander averred that the 2025 edition of the workshop is Understanding Cryptocurrency Fraud and other Emerging Financial Crimes and Prosecution of Financial Crimes: Issues, Challenges and Way Forward , adding that
It is imperative for us to note that the surge of Cryptocurrency Fraud and other related offences in the Nigeria’s Cyberspace is becoming alarming hence, as part of the efforts of the EFCC to nip this menace and eradicate these crimes from Nigeria Cyberspace there is need for synergy with relevant Stakeholders, that is the reason why the Commission has chosen these topics to educate, create awareness and discuss arising issues that will yield more significant results as the EFCC tackles the spate of these crimes.
“We must work together to intensify public sensitization. Your platforms- print, broadcast, digital, and community-based- are essential in equipping Nigerians with the knowledge to make informed decisions and avoid falling prey to scammers. ”
He reiterated that the fight against economic and financial crimes is not the sole responsibility of the EFCC or other anti-corruption agencies. It is a collective national duty, meaning all hands must be on deck , stressing that
We owe it to our country and, indeed, the global community to expose and confront corrupt practices wherever they exist.
“The media must continue to hold public institutions accountable, while civil society must deepen civic engagement and promote transparency at all levels.
The EFCC remains committed to building a stronger and more effective partnership with all stakeholders in the fight against corruption. he stated.
Earlier In his presentation on cryptocurrency-related crimes, CSE Coker Oyegunle, Head of Advanced Fee Fraud, explained that digital assets are increasingly being used for money laundering, identity theft, phishing, malware attacks, and ransomware, most of which involve untraceable crypto payments.
He noted that Nigeria now has a coordinated regulatory framework involving multiple agencies. The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) serves as the lead regulator under the Investment and Securities Act 2025, defining digital assets as securities and licensing virtual asset service providers.
Our correspondent reports that other topics presented during the workshop include prosecuting Financial crimes: Issues, challenges and the way forward and the role of CSOs and media in driving a preventive frame work.
Nation
RSU Blames Poor Funding for Failure to Meet Academic Targets as 1,356 Set for Combined Convocation on Saturday”
The management of Rivers State University (RSU), Port Harcourt, has stated that poor funding has hindered the institution’s ability to meet its expected academic targets.
The Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof. Isaac Zeb-Obipi, made this statement during a press briefing held at the institution on Monday in Port Harcourt, ahead of the week-long 37th and 38th combined convocation ceremony scheduled for Friday and Saturday this week.
Prof. Zeb-Obipi emphasized that poor funding continues to be a major challenge limiting the institution’s ability to meet its targets, adding that they trust the state governor, Sir Fubara Siminalaye, who is the visitor to the university, will continue to strengthen and support them.
He noted that the state governor has demonstrated his commitment to supporting the university, recently approving N700m for the ongoing NUC accreditation.
The Vice-Chancellor stated that the university faces deficits in classrooms, staff accommodation, and student hostels, with the infrastructure gap widening, and existing lecture halls and laboratories requiring renovation.
“We are prioritizing phased upgrades based on program needs,
He added that the university is short-staffed, having lost staff to retirement, death, and changes in job or place of work, and that new programs, departments, and faculties have been created to meet the contemporary needs of society.
Mean while,a total of 13,242 students are set to graduate in the combined convocation, with 10,648 undergraduates, 1,356 Master’s degree students, 700 postgraduate diplomas, and 538 Doctors of Philosophy.
The Vice-Chancellor also used the opportunity to list some achievements of his administration, including the creation of new directorates, completion of abandoned laboratories, and upgrades in the faculty of sciences, made possible with support from the Tertiary Education Technology Fund (TETFund).
He expressed appreciation to the governor and visitor to the university, Sir Siminalaye Fubara, for approving his appointment and promised to justify the confidence placed in him.
The Movement for the Survival of the Izon Ethnic Nationality in the Niger Delta (MOSIEND) has decried the neglect of communities in Obolo Nation and others in the Niger Delta Region
MOSIEND also called on the stakeholders to empower the youths in skill acquisition and other meaningful ventures to better their lives
This call was on Rhythm 93.7 FM Port Harcourt, Radio program, Talk of the Town, by MOSIEND Eastern Zonal Coordinator of MOSIEND Half Hour Comrade Tammy Bruce Longjohn, alongside Asarama Clan Chairman, Comrade Amos Zebedee Udu, and Unyeada Clan Chairman Comrade Owen Wilson Ngere monitored by our correspondent
The spokepersons underscores the urgent need for government agencies and development partners to respond decisively to the dire state of basic amenities in the area.
MOSIEND leaders in Obolo Nation lamented the absence of potable water, electricity, access roads, and other functional public infrastructures in the clans
“What is troubling is that these complaints continue to echo without corresponding action from the Rivers State Government, the Niger Delta Development Commission, and the oil companies operating in and around the area”.
According to the MOSIEND leaders, the situation has reached a point where community members, particularly youths and women, require deliberate intervention to rebuild livelihoods and restore hope.
They also emphasised the need for empowerment programmes, vocational training, and investments in local economies that depend heavily on fishing and trade.
The Clan leaders call for provision of small engine boats for fishermen and the construction of proper market spaces for the communities
Asarama Clan Chairman, Comrade Udu noted that the community participates fully in electoral processes yet continues to live without clean water or electricity.
He insisted that the clan is not benefiting as they ought to from any MoU with oil companies nor from NDDC projects, raises concerns about the fairness and inclusiveness of development planning in the state.
Equally troubling is the account from Unyeada Clan Chairman, Comrade Owen Wilson Ngere, who highlighted the alarming state of Unyeada Primary School, where children are forced to learn on bare floors without desks, chairs, or basic sanitation facilities.
” For a region that hosts oil and gas activities, such conditions are unacceptable and should concern all stakeholders”.
The Unyeada Clan Commended NDDC for the installation of solar lights in the communities, noting that the project is not enough for the entire community as they
appeal for more of the solar project in the area
While the leaders expressed appreciation to Governor Siminalayi Fubara for the ongoing construction of roads in the area, and to the local council Chairman for the provision of potable water in some communities, .
“Obolo Nation has shown remarkable restraint and continues to maintain peace, as noted by the MOSIEND Coordinator”.
“The issues highlighted are not demands for luxury,but are basic necessities that every community in the Niger Delta deserves.
“The time for promises has passed; what Obolo communities need now is visible, sustained, and inclusive development.
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