Lifestyle

31 policemen dismissed, others sanctioned over 14,976 complaints

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The Complaint Response Unit of the Nigeria Police Force has received 14,976 complaints against policemen since its inception, The PUNCH has learnt.

The unit, which was established in 2015 to receive complaints from citizens against erring policemen, stated in a report, obtained by our correspondent on Tuesday, that no fewer than 11,567 complaints have been resolved, and over 258 officers have been punished.

It noted that 31 policemen have been dismissed while eight others are undergoing orderly room trials.

The unit added a total of N55.6m was recovered and returned to their owners between 2015 and 2021.

In 2021 alone, the unit said it received a total of 1,244 complaints against policemen nationwide.

It added that out of the complaints, 876 had been resolved, 351 are currently being investigated and 25 of the complaints, after investigations, were found to be false.

The unit also noted that in 2021, the Lagos State Police Command recorded the highest number of cases with 327 complaints, followed by the Federal Capital Territory Command which had 210. Delta State Command recorded 85 complaints while Rivers State Command ranked fourth with 80 complaints.

The document read in part, “Commands/formations with the highest cases of professional misconduct in Nigeria are state headquarters in Rivers State with 16 cases; Federal Headquarters (15); Abattoir in FHQ (15); FCT Command (13); Ikeja in Lagos (9); Alagbon in Lagos (5) Maitama Division in FCT (4); Kubwa Division in FCT (4); FESTAC Division in Lagos State (4) and Chouba Area Command in Rivers State (4).

“The Rivers State Command headquarters recorded the highest cases of demanding money for bail, while the top four formations accused of demanding money for bail were recorded in Rivers State. This indicates the need for review of leadership in these formations.

“The Rivers State Command headquarters recorded the most excessive use of force complaints nationwide, followed by the Meiran Division and state headquarters, Lagos, then FCT.”

The Executive Director, Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre, Okechukwu Nwanguma, commended the unit, adding that the report would help the police to take necessary action to cleanse the force.

He said, “First of all, this would be the first time that the CRU would be publishing and presenting its quarterly report publicly. It is a testament to how transparent and accountable the CRU is under its current leadership.

“You could see that Rivers State has the highest number of complaints.  This should send a message to the Rivers State police authorities to look inwards and address this bad record.

“For states that recorded low numbers, it is also important to find out whether this is an indication of low levels of misconduct by police personnel in those states, or low levels of awareness about the CRU or lack of knowledge of how to report complaints.”

The Chairman, Centre for Anti-corruption and Open Leadership, Debo Adeniran, urged the unit to do more of this to help the police redeem its stained image.

He said, “They are on the right track, not minding the amount being recovered among others. That they recognised that their personnel engage in corrupt practices and other unethical practices is commendable.

“This would make other personnel with the mindset to abuse their position to have a rethink. In general, we need more of this for them to redeem their battered image and restore confidence of the populace in the NPF. We urge them to step up and improve on this internal cleansing.”

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Lifestyle

Recruitment: Nigerian Army fixes June 28 to July 11 for screening

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The Nigerian Army has announced the dates for the recruitment screening exercise for applicants of the 83 Regular Intake 2022 for Non-Tradesmen and Women.

In a public announcement contained in a series of tweets posted to its verified Twitter page late Tuesday, @HQNigerianArmy, the Nigerian Army says, “The state recruitment screening exercise is scheduled to commence from 28 June – 11 July 2022 in all the 36 states and Federal Capital Territory Abuja.”

It also directs applicants to visit its recruitment portal at https://recruitment.army.mil.ng.

“The Nigerian Army wishes to inform the general public & all applicants that applied for 83 Regular Recruits Intake 2022 for Non-Tradesmen & Women to visit the Nigerian Army Recruitment Portal https://recruitment.army.mil.ng to check the list of shortlisted candidates.

“The state recruitment screening exercise is scheduled to commence from 28 June – 11 July 2022 in all the 36 states and Federal Capital Territory Abuja.

“A high standard of discipline is expected from all candidates. Candidates who violate any instruction during the Recruitment Screening Exercise would be disqualified,” the tweet stated.

Lifestyle

Ajasin’s son, others protest insecurity in South-West, preach self-defence

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Chief Tokunbo Ajasin, one of the children of a former Governor of Ondo State, late Chief Adekunle.Ajasin, on Monday led other elderly residents and youths in a protest to demand an end to insecurity in the South-West.

The protesters, who wielded placards with various inscriptions, stormed the streets of Ibadan, the Oyo State capital to sensitise the people on the need to begin to prepare to defend themselves due to killings, kidnappings, rape and destruction of properties being witnessed in the region.

They said the recent massacre of worshippers at St Francis Catholic Church, Owo, Ondo State was not an isolated case, saying similar killings had happened in Igangan, Ibarapa North Local Government Area of Oyo State and other parts of Yorubaland.

They said Yorubaland had been surrounded by terrorists from other countries who were waiting to strike at any time warning that the people must not be caught unawares.

Ajasin, in an interview with journalists, said the Federal Government was not doing enough to protect the people.

He said, “Why will the Federal Government recruit pardoned Boko Haram members into the Army and expect them not to be sympathetic to their terror group? There are many youths with no link to terror groups or criminal records who should be recruited.

“Apart from that, flushing the criminals from the forests can be done with the aid of equipment like drones and other equipment like that. There must be seriousness on the part of all stakeholders to end terror.”

The Coordinator, Coalition of Yoruba Self-Determination Groups, Johnson Ajilore, while addressing the people, said Yorubaland had been surrounded by terrorists and criminals who were killing daily across the South-West.

He said, “We are staging this rally to sensitise the people to be vigilant. We are being killed every day but this must stop. We have to defend ourselves if the government is not ready to defend us.

“We say no to these killings. Our hospitality, civility and tolerance should not be mistaken for cowardice.

“People went to church to worship and some terrorists went there and killed them. Similar incident happened in Igangan a year before the Owo incident.  They have killed many and kidnapped many more in many towns and villages in the South-West.”

The coalition’s Secretary General, Chief Steve Abioye, while addressing residents during the protest at Oje, said Yoruba people should wake up and be ready to protect themselves from being slaughtered daily by bandits.

“Our people should wake up, they are being killed every day. Yorubaland has never been conquered and that is why we are calling on our people to defend themselves,” he said.

A 75-year-old protester, Dr Tunde  Arogunmasa, said the youth and the elders must be prepared to defend themselves and their land.

Lifestyle

Customer, friends lynch, burn Lagos sex worker for keeping Quran in room

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The Lagos State Police Command has charged three suspects to court for allegedly beating a prostitute, Hannah Saliu, to death and setting her corpse ablaze for keeping the Holy Quran in her room.

PUNCH Metro gathered that one of the suspects patronised Saliu and after having sex with her, he reportedly paid her N1,000 for the service.

The customer was said to have left her room when she suddenly discovered that her N5,000 had gone missing.

She reportedly ran after the customer and accused him of stealing her money.

The accusation, however, degenerated into an argument.

The customer was said to have mobilised his friends to Saliu’s room to search for the missing money.

While searching the place, the friends reportedly found a Quran underneath her pillow.

A source said Saliu was questioned for possessing the Quran with the kind of job she was doing, adding that the customer and his friends, who became infuriated by the discovery, pounced on her, beat her up and set her ablaze.

The source said, “What happened was that the girl was a prostitute and a customer patronised her and after sleeping with her, the customer paid N1,000 for her service.

“But when the customer was leaving, he stole the prostitute’s N5,000 and after discovering that her money had gone missing, the prostitute chased him to ask for her money.

“The Northerners, who were with the customer that the girl accused of stealing her money, asked if she was sure that he stole her money. So, they decided to go and search her room where she attended to her customers.

“While searching the room, they found Quran under her pillow and started asking what she was using the Quran for as a prostitute. So, they started attacking her; they stabbed her, took her out and set her ablaze.

“The incident happened at Alaba Rago, where a lot of Northerners reside. The girl that was killed also came from the North. Their grouse was that she was not supposed to be carrying Quran because of the kind of work she was doing.”

The state Police Public Relations, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, confirmed the incident.

He said, “The case is at the State Criminal Investigation Department, Yaba, and three suspects have been charged to court. The incident happened in April.”

A source identified the suspects as Abubakar Musa, Sarauta Monsur, and Surajo Yusuf.

PUNCH Metro had reported that a second-year student of Home Economics at the Shehu Shagari College of Education, Deborah Samuel, was lynched by fellow students over an allegation of blasphemy.

Lifestyle

Gunmen shoot four travellers in Osun, one nabbed

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Four travellers were shot in the early hours of Sunday along Ijabe/Ila road in Osun State by some men bearing arms.

The victims were said to be travelling in a vehicle heading towards Ijabe from Ila-Orangun when some armed men opened fire on them which left four people injured.

However, a suspect was said to have been arrested by men of Osun Amotekun Corps in connection with the shooting.

A top security source, who spoke under condition of anonymity, said that the mission of the men that carried out the shooting was unclear.

Meanwhile, some operatives of Osun Amotekun corps from Odo-Otin and Ila local government areas went after the perpetrators immediately the shooting took place and one person was held.

“The person held is believed to be the leader of the gang involved in the shooting. But their intention is not clear yet,” the source revealed.

When contacted on Monday, the Field Commander, Osun Amotekun Corps, Amitolu Shittu, confirmed the shooting and the arrest of a 52-year-old suspect in connection with the crime.

Shittu said, “The attack occurred very early in the morning on Sunday. Four people were shot. The victims were travelling from Ila towards Ijabe when they were shot.

“Amotekun men from Ila and Odo-Otin local government areas immediately swung into action and arrested a man suspected to be the leader of the gang that carried out the attack. The case has been taken over by the police. The suspect was also handed over to them.”

However, the Osun police command spokesperson, Yemisi Opalola could not be reached for comment, as calls to her line rang out and she has not responded to a text message sent to her to seek further clarification on the matter, as of the time of filing this report.

Lifestyle

Jonathan, Atiku, others salute Abdulsalami Abubakar at 80

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The former Head of state, Abdulsalami Abubakar, turned 80 on Monday.

Former President Goodluck Jonathan has described the former Head of State, Abdulsalami Abubakar, as a selfless patriot and elder statesman who has made significant contributions to the growth and stability of the nation and the West African sub-region.

The former president said this in a statement he posted on social media to celebrate Mr Abubakar who turned 80 on Monday.

Mr Jonathan described the former leader as a peace maker and nation builder due to his activities at the National Peace Committee.

“Your commitment to our national aspirations and considerable achievements as Head of State at a momentous period in the history of our nation has continued to be referenced as a watershed in the birthing of the Fourth Republic.

“Out of office, you have earned a reputation as a peace maker and nation builder for your key roles in promoting unity, mutual harmony and peaceful elections through the National Peace Committee.

“As you celebrate, I wish you more strength, wisdom, and sound health in your future endeavours,” he said.

Epitome of unity

In his goodwill message, former Vice President and presidential candidate of the PDP, Atiku Abubakar, described the celebrant as a great Nigerian patriot and an epitome of unity.

In a statement by his spokesperson, Paul Ibe, Mr Atiku said the former Head of State demonstrated great patriotism and commitment to unity and democracy by keeping faith to his transition timetable in 1999.

According to the former vice president, Mr Abubakar has also committed himself to the promotion of unity and democracy since leaving office by involving himself in peace building efforts in the country.

“As you celebrate your 80th birthday today (Monday), I’m excited to say that my interactions with you have always been fruitful because I see in you a great fountain of inspiration and a reservoir of wisdom and knowledge,” Mr Abubakar extolled the general.

The former vice president also said Mr Abdulsalami’s contributions to creating a culture of politics without bitterness will always be appreciated by Nigerians.

“Keeping a promise is one of the greatest signs of a great leader. General Abdulsalami has met that criterion. I’m proud to associate with such a great and patriotic Nigerian. May Allah grant the General more good health and longer life to continue to serve humanity,” the presidential hopeful added.

A nationalist

In a separate message by his Chief Press secretary, Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa said Nigeria benefited immensely from Mr Abubakar’s leadership as he returned the country to democratic rule in 1999.

He commended the former leader for his consistency in the pursuit of peace and credible electoral process in the country.

The governor also lauded the former head of state for his patriotism, which he exudes by always speaking up on national issues and unrelenting in his service to the country and humanity. He said Mr Abubakar had faithfully sustained those contributions to the polity.

He described the octogenarian as an epitome of nationalism, selflessness and statesmanship, and prayed that God would raise more persons like him in the country.

“On behalf of my family, the government and people of Delta, I felicitate with you, Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar, on your 80th birth anniversary.

“As a great patriot and elder statesman, you have made significant contributions to the growth and stability of our nation through your selfless service to the country and humanity.

“Your commitment to our peaceful coexistence and laudable initiative, which birthed the Fourth Republic remains a momentous period in the history of our nation.

“Even out of office, you have continued to work tirelessly as a troubleshooter and nation’s builder and in promoting unity and peaceful elections through the National Peace Committee.

“As you celebrate your 80th birth anniversary today, I join your family, friends and wells wishers to thank Almighty God for your life and to pray that He continues to bless you with robust health, greater wisdom, guidance, protection and enduring provisions,” Mr Okowa said.

Lifestyle

Gunmen kill another man in Anambra, four days after his abduction

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Anambra has witnessed some of the worst attacks in the South-east. The government blames IPOB for the attacks.

Gunmen have killed another man in Nkwelle-Ezunaka community in Oyi Local Government Area of Anambra State, Nigeria’s South-east.

The incident happened in the early hours of Monday at a popular junction in the area.

A resident of the area, Arinze Ajaezu, told PREMIUM TIMES what happened.

He said the gunmen, who stormed the area through Nkwelle Road, zoomed off through  Onitsha Road, a different route, after killing the victim.

“We don’t know the identity of the guy. But some (people) are suspecting that he could be a security agent,” he said.

The police spokesperson in the state, Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed the incident in a statement.

He identified the victim as Ikechukwu Udeozor.

Mr Ikenga said the victim was abducted from his residence on Thursday by gunmen and killed on Monday, four days after.

“Today, May 13, at about 10:20 a.m., police operatives recovered a lifeless body at the roadside by Y- Junction, Nkwelle-Ezunaka. The victim was later identified as Ikechukwu Udeozor,” Mr Ikenga said.

The spokesperson said the police were investigating the incident and that the killers would be arrested.

Worsening insecurity

Security in Nigeria’s South-east has deteriorated with frequent attacks by armed persons in the region.

Anambra State has witnessed some of the worst attacks in the region. The attacks often target security agencies, government officials and facilities.

The latest attack occurred barely 48 hours after gunmen killed a youth leader of the All Progressive Grand Alliance in Utuh, a community in Nnewi South Local Government Area of the state.

Also, last month, gunmen abducted and then beheaded Okechukwu Okoye, a lawmaker representing Aguata 2 Constituency in Anambra State House of Assembly.

Mr Okoye was killed on May 21 with his aide, Cyril Chiegboka, six days after they were abducted along Aguluzigbo Road, Anaocha Local Government Area of the state.

The Nigerian government has accused outlawed Indigenous People of Biafra of being responsible for some of the deadly attacks in the region. But the group has repeatedly denied their involvement in the attacks.

The separatist group is leading agitation for an independent state of Biafra to be carved out from the South-east and some parts of the South-south Nigeria.

The leader of the secessionist group, Nnamdi Kanu, is detained in Abuja where he is facing trial for terrorism.

Entertainment, Lifestyle, World News

Post Malone welcomes baby girl and announces his engagement to his baby’s mother.

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Post Malone just became a dad and got engaged.



The “Rockstar” rapper, 26, made the announcement on “The Howard Stern Show” Monday, June 13, while promoting his upcoming Twelve Carat Tour.



He said on the SiriusXM show: “[At] 2:30 in the afternoon, I went and I kissed my baby girl.”



Howard Stern interrupted: “What baby girl? Are you referring to your girlfriend or you have a baby?”



“No, that’s my daughter,” the singer replied.



Stern, 68, pointed out that Post had kept the information “quiet,” to which he jokingly responded, “Yeah, I want to let her make her own decisions.”



The veteran radio host then asked Post Malone whether he should refer to his daughter’s mom as his girlfriend or wife, so Post clarified, “She’s my fiancée.”



Back in May, he told TMZ he was expecting a baby.

Lifestyle

Why dogs attack their owners – Vet doctor

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“Any dog that is banned outside the country, you see them flying everywhere in the country (Nigeria).”

Ronke Mapayi is a veterinary doctor with over 20-year experience, and the CEO of Rovet Pet Shop, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

She spoke with PREMIUM TIMES on how to choose a guard dog and how to relate with your dog at home.

PT: What should one consider when choosing a guard dog?

RONKE: A formidable dog that will be scary to people. Apart from that, it should have confidence. If you pick a puppy that is very shy, one that runs away when it sees people, it will not work.

The guard instinct is an inheritable trait, so you must make sure the parents themselves were security dogs.

If the dog is not naturally aggressive, there is nothing you can do. He would want to play and socialise with everybody, so you must go for a dog that has some level of aggression.

PT: Nigerians are going through tough times, so feeding a dog might be a big burden.

RONKE: People take their dogs as (part of their) family. People take their dogs as staff. You would not say because the country is in bad condition, you don’t feed your security personnel. The dog is one of the security personnel that you have.

PT: What is the price range for dog food?

RONKE: It depends on the food. We have wet foods, canned food, and ready-to-be-served food. We also have dry foods. Some are produced in Nigeria, others are imported but some people make home food for their dogs.

For dogs, you don’t use onions because of health reasons. The price of food ranges from N20,000 to more. There are some that can go for over N50,000 in a bag.

PT: What could make a dog attack its owner?

RONKE: If the dog feels threatened – possibly the owner is not the type that relates well, so out of fear it can attack in self-defence.

Second, if that dog tries to dominate you. Dogs have what we call pack instinct. In a pack (of dogs), there must be one which is the boss. Every dog tries to challenge the perceived leader of the pack to get the leader to submit, so he (the challenger) can become the new leader. While the dog is in the house, you as its owner, must ensure that you are in charge. You must reject every attempt by your dog to rebel against you or dominate you. You are trying to give your dog food and it rejects the food and starts barking. You don’t take that from the dog, it’s trying to challenge you.

PT: There was this recent video on social media where a Pit bull attacked its owner….

RONKE: (Cut in)….Pit Bulls are some of the dogs that have been banned in the U.S and UK because they are dangerous. Normally, when you see them they are quiet and look harmless.

The issue with them is that they have what we called lockjaw mechanism. Unlike other dogs, once a Pit Bull bites, their jaw is locked. So in trying to come out, they struggle to come out and pull out a large chunk of flesh, so it is always a very deadly attack. That is why it is banned.

PT: Is it banned in Nigeria?

RONKE: No one knows what is happening. Any dog that is banned outside the country, you see them flying everywhere in the country.

PT: How lucrative is dog breeding?

RONKE: It is very lucrative. We have dog breeders, they are not vet doctors; they just breed dogs. I patronise them, if a client needs a dog. We have a dog section in ExxonMobil, and you see how much money they spend to bring in the sniffer dogs. A sniffer dog can cost over N3 million each.

PT: Some breeds appear to be pretty costly?

RONKE: It depends on why you are buying the dog. But as a first timer who just want a dog for security, a German shepherd would do. You can buy it from N45,000 to N50,000. The same German shepherd, someone else might sell it for N500,000. It depends on pedigree (the purity of the dog). If it is a pure line, they have not crossbred. If it is a very good dog that you really want, the price is from N250, 000 and above.

Lifestyle

Don’t bully people for exercising their faith, actress Lala Akindoju slams trolls

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Nollywood actress, Kemi Lala Akindoju, has slammed people speaking against Christians participating in the #JesusChallenge on Twitter.

Earlier on Tuesday, gospel singer Nathaniel Bassey called on Christians via his Twitter handle to trend a picture with a white background and “JESUS” written in a red-coloured font.

This spurred many including Pastor W. F. Kumuyi of the Deeper Christian Life Ministry and Pastor E. A. Adeboye of the Redeemed Christian Church of God to share the picture on their social media pages, especially on Twitter.

The trend has been trailed by mixed reactions as many praised the expression of faith while others questioned it.

Popular media personality, Daddy Freeze, stated his disapproval of the trend saying that the gospel singer should instead ask people to get their Permanent Voter Cards.

Posting a picture of Bassey’s tweet, the OAP wrote on his Instagram page, “Instead of telling people to go and get their PVC, na to put Jesus for display picture. Who did this to us? Nigeria is living proof that Jesus can’t bring peace. It’s been 60 years of doing the same thing with no result bro. Come on.”

Defending the trend, Akindoju argued that several churches have been in the active drive of getting their members to register for their PVCs ahead of the 2023 elections.

“Churches have been organising voters’ registration programs for months at no cost,” she tweeted on Tuesday.

“They have been educating their members on the importance of voting and being active citizens. But y’all want to bully people for exercising their faith?

“If you don’t like it, jump and pass, but bullying and insulting is so wrong. Some churches even insist on members having PVCs. There’s no shame in praying. WE WILL PRAY, VOTE, ENGAGE THE SYSTEM AND INSIST.”

She further charged Nigerians to direct their grievances towards their leaders and lawmakers, instead of bullying Christians who chose to exercise their faith by trending the said picture.

“When the same handles were posting PVC matters, Y’all didn’t talk. People say they want to post Jesus instead of all the doom and gloom today and you’re angry. Have you used this same energy to hold your leaders accountable?

“How many of you have contributed anything to improve the living conditions of any Nigerian. Christians and churches are feeding people, paying school fees, getting people rehabilitated and actually doing what your government should do but y’all just decide to pick on people??? Block them if you don’t like it. Gosh,” she wrote.

Lifestyle

Car stolen from Canada tracked to Nigeria

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A 2017 Toyota Highlander stolen from Ontario street, Canada has been tracked to Nigeria.

The vehicle belonging to one Ahmad Abdallah was said to have disappeared from his street last September, according to CTV News.

It was gathered that the owner had given up on finding the car after surveillance video of the thieves unlocking his 2017 Toyota Highlander provided no clue.

More than six months later, CTV News Investigates said it was able to find his vehicle—sitting in a lot in a suburb of Lagos, Nigeria.

After seeing the video of his own car for sale overseas, Abdallah realised how truly organised the criminals who stole his car might actually be.

“I got a call from you. You sent me a picture of my car. Oh it blew my mind,” he said in an interview. “This is clearly a big operation. There should be more people looking into it…we’re talking millions of dollars. This has to be taken seriously,” he said.

Abdallah’s experience is a small window into a huge surge in car thefts striking cities across Canada, with an apparent epicentre in the Greater Toronto Area.

Lifestyle

Okadaman kills pedestrian in Lagos; mob beats him comatose, sets colleagues’ bikes ablaze

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By Esther Onyegbula

Pandemonium broke out on Thursday morning in the Jakande Estate/Isheri area of Lagos State, following the death of a pedestrian knocked down by a commercial motorcycle operator, alias okadaman.

Vanguard learned that the motorcycle rider veered off the road and hit the pedestrian, who fell and died on the spot.

However, trouble started when onlookers pounced on the motorcyclist and beat him to stupor.

But for the swift arrival of policemen, who intervened, rescued and took him to the hospital, he would have been lynched by the irate mob.

Confirming the incident, spokesman of Lagos State Police Command, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, said policemen arrived at the scene on time and rescued the motorcycle rider from being lynched.

And they immediately took him to the hospital for treatment and evacuated the pedestrian.

Before the Policemen came back to the scene, the angry mob had set motorcycles ablaze. They apparently seized the offending okadaman’s colleagues’ motorbikes, and set them ablaze.

According to Hundeyin, “The Lagos State Police Command condemns jungle justice in very strong terms.

“Anyone found engaging in such would be dealt with by the law. Meanwhile, officers are on the ground and normalcy has returned to the area.”

Lifestyle

‘Terrorists in helicopter’ kill 32, shell houses, church in Southern Kaduna

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SOKAPU warns political parties against all-Muslim ticket

Inhabitants of Adara community in the southern part of Kaduna State have said that about 32 persons lost their lives in an alleged helicopter-aided attack by terrorists, who razed houses, including Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) in the area.

Adara leaders said more bodies were discovered in bushes around the villages attacked by terrorists in helicopters.

The National President of Adara Development Association (ADA), Awemi Maisamari, stated, yesterday: “The pogrom against Adara nation rages on. In the latest tragedy, Ungwan Gamu, Dogon Noma, Ungwan Sarki and Maikori villages near Maro in Kajuru Local Council were attacked on Sunday, June 5, 2022.

“The death toll this morning (Wednesday) is 32, as villagers comb surrounding bushes for more bodies. Seven were found this morning decomposing.”

According to him, the attack started around noon and lasted until around 06:00 p.m. unchallenged by the state. It was carried out by Fulani terrorists on 150 motorcycles carrying three armed persons each.

Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Mohammed Jalige, did not respond to telephone calls from The Guardian for comments on the Adara attack.

MEANWHILE, Southern Kaduna Peoples Union (SOKAPU) has told all political parties in Kaduna and the state government not to encourage a Muslim-Muslim governorship ticket in the 2023 general election.

According to the group, the promotion of such tickets by Governor Nasir el-Rufai has divided the people and hindered socio-economic development, noting that Southern Kaduna people will resist any political arrangement devoid of political balance in 2023.

In a statement, yesterday, SOKAPU Political Committee congratulated governorship candidates of the various political parties.

“While we are glad that the events leading to their emergence as candidates were successfully carried out devoid of any form of violence. We look forward to meeting them soon for fruitful deliberations on how we can build bridges in our dear state for development,” the group stated.

Secretary of the committee, Simon Musa, explained: “There has been no better time than now for all parties and both zones to work towards enthroning inclusiveness across the various parts of Kaduna.”

“Despite the tension and animosity prevalent along ethnoreligious divides, the Southern Kaduna people are committed to the welfare and security of all citizens of the state. In this regard, the attention of SOKAPU has been drawn to subtle threats mounted on governorship candidates to appoint their running mates without regard to the ethnoreligious divide in the state.”

Lifestyle

Three days after Owo attack, gunmen kill six in Ondo

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No fewer than six persons were shot dead at Sabo Area of Ondo town, Ondo State on Wednesday night by some men suspected to be bandits.

This came 72 hours after some terrorists attacked St. Francis Catholic Church, Owo, killing about 40 people.

Several other church members were injured in the attack.

It was gathered that the gunmen were on motorcycles when they carried out the attack.

Another source said the gunmen also robbed some residents of the area before they left the scene.

The Police Public Relations Officer of the state, Mrs Funmilayo Odunlami, confirmed the incident.

She, however, said it was a robbery case, adding that men of the command were already on the trail of the perpetrators.

Lifestyle, World News

I woke up from a coma to find my fiance had ghosted me and moved in with someone else – Woman reveals.

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A woman has narrated how she woke up from a coma to find her fiance had ghosted her and moved in with someone else.
 
25-year-old Brie Duval further revealed that the new woman also sent her a text message which she read after she woke up.

 
The Australian lady who has racked up millions of views on her @hotcomagirl1 TikTok account, said she went into coma after a horrific accident she had last August. 
 

She had moved to Canada working in her dream job and had been in a great relationship with her partner for four years – and she claims they’d even got engaged. However, on August 29, 2021, she had a horrific fall from a car park. 
 
One of the walls was under construction, and Brie hadn’t seen the large drop to the concrete pavement beneath in the dark as there was no signs or tape.

 
She fell headfirst over the edge and had to be airlifted to the University of Alberta Hospital where she was placed on life support in the ICU.
 

She suffered numerous broken bones and a brain injury, and was in a coma for four weeks. Doctors told her mum that she only had a 10 per cent of surviving the injury. 
 
Thankfully Brie started to show signs of improvement, and she eventually woke up. Although she suffered amnesia when she woke up, she started to piece together the events of the evening.

 
Her mobile phone was returned to her, but what she found on it was heartbreaking.  Her partner, who she had been living with, reportedly blocked her on social media and ghosted her completely.
 

She also found a text from his new girlfriend, which informed Brie that he had moved in with her and her son and to not speak to him.
 
Brie told Mirror; 
 

“I have not heard from him since I have been in hospital, he’s completely and utterly left me in the dust. So I don’t even have closure as to why this happened.”

 
Five months after the accident, Brie who was left with a traumatic brain injury (TBI), was able to fly home to Australia to be with her family.

Lifestyle

Enugu govt holds emergency security meeting

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Enugu, like other states in Nigeria’s South-east, has witnessed an increase in deadly attacks lately.

The Enugu State Government Tuesday held an emergency security meeting at Government House, Enugu, to review the security situation in the state.

The Secretary to the State Government, Simon Ortuanya, disclosed this in a statement from his office to reporters in Enugu.

According to the statement, the meeting, which was chaired by Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, was attended by the Deputy Governor, Cecilia Ezeilo, the Speaker, Enugu House of Assembly, Edward Ubosi and the heads of security agencies in the state.

Meanwhile, the Tricycle and Motorcycle Riders Associations in Igbo-Eze North and Igbo-Eze South council areas of Enugu State have resolved that their members should desist from operating in the two council areas from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m.

This is contained in a statement signed by the Chairman Enugu State Tricycle Association, Benjamin Ika, and other leaders of the association from the two council areas, made available to reporters in Enugu on Tuesday.

They also directed all Keke and Okada operators to withdraw their services in Aguibeje and Iyionu communities in Igbo-Eze North Local Government Area, with effect from June 7, 2022, till further notice.

The leaders requested security agencies in the state to enforce their resolutions.

Enugu, like other states in Nigeria’s South-east, has witnessed an increase in deadly attacks lately.

The attacks, mostly targeted at security officials and government facilities, have been attributed to the outlawed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) which is agitating for a sovereign state for the Igbo-speaking people in the South-east.

The IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu, is detained in Abuja where he is standing trial for terrorism.

Lifestyle

Shops closed, streets deserted as Lagos task force, Okada riders clash

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The sound of gunshots rent the air yesterday, in Idi-Araba, Mushin, Lagos when commercial motorcyclists, popularly known as Okada riders clashed with officials of Lagos State Task Force over enforcement of the state’s ban on their operations.

The tear gas shots and sound of gunshots forced many shop owners to close as early as 1:30 p.m. while residents scampered to safety.

The Guardian learnt that the Okada riders had tried to resist the Task Force, who came in four-patrol vans from impounding their motorcycles around  Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) the area of Idiaraba, but were outnumbered and tear-gassed.

It was said that the Okada riders resisted them and challenged the battle-ready officers, saying that Mushin was not part of the local councils mentioned by the governor in the ban.

Contacted, the spokesperson for the Task Force, Gbadeyan Abdulraheem, denied that the men shot in the area, but insisted they were carrying out government’s directive to get Okada riders off the area.

Asked if Mushin Local Council was not part of the areas mentioned by the Lagos state governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu in the ban, he said: “There has been a law banning Okada operations in the state since 2018, so, the current ban did not invalidate the previous one. So, the law is still in force.

“We have increased our surveillance to checkmate the influx of Okada riders into the state from other African countries. Most of the Okada riders in Lagos are not Nigerians.

“We have seen the evil people accommodating them and what that can do to our country. They can run over our country, because these men know every nook and cranny.

“When these so-called Okada men hit a motorist from behind and he comes down to challenge them, they will call for their members and start destroying the vehicle.

“Nigerians have been so tolerant and now we have to discourage them from creating problems. They are no longer doing shoe shining; they just want to ride motorcycles. Before, we only arrested the Okada riders, but now we arrest both the Okada and their passengers to discourage them.”

Lifestyle, World News

Harry and Meghan release rare public photo of Lilibet.

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Prince Harry and Meghan, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, are giving a rare glimpse of their daughter in honor of her first birthday.
The couple released a snapshot of Lilibet on Monday, showing the smiling tot at her backyard birthday picnic at Frogmore Cottage in England with close friends and family members.
In a statement from a spokesperson shared with ITK, Harry and Meghan said they were “incredibly touched” by the birthday wishes from the public for their daughter, who turned 1 on June 4. Lilibet Diana’s name honors both Harry’s grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II, and his mother, Princess Diana.

The pair said that more than $100,000 was donated from all around the world to hunger relief organization World Central Kitchen in honor of Lilibet’s birthday. The Archewell Foundation founders said the organization was “especially near to their hearts,” citing World Central Kitchen’s efforts to provide meals in Uvalde, Texas, in the wake of a mass school shooting, as well as in Ukraine amid the Russian invasion of the country.
Harry and Meghan, who stepped down as full-time working members of the British royal family in 2020, are also parents to 3-year-old Archie.
The couple recently made headlines at their first public appearance in the United Kingdom since moving to Meghan’s home state of California two years ago, attending a service last week at St. Paul’s Cathedral for Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee celebration, which marks her 70th year on the throne.

Lifestyle

Nigeria gets licence for national air carrier, delays start of operations

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The certification is coming four years after the carrier was unveiled at the Farnborough Air Show in England.

The Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika, on Monday announced that the Nigeria Air Limited has received an Air Transport License (ATL) from the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).

Nigeria Air is the nation’s proposed national carrier which was unveiled at the Farnborough Air Show in England on July 18, 2018.

The project was suspended two months after it was announced after critics raised concerns over its relevance and sustainability. The proposed airline was expected to gulp $8.8 million preliminary cost and $300 million as takeoff cost.

Nigeria’s defunct carrier, Nigeria Airways, collapsed due to corruption and poor management.

But the Nigerian government dismissed all concerns raised, saying the airline would begin operation before the end of 2018, following President Muhammadu Buhari’s promise to establish a national airline during his 2015 electioneering campaign.

Six months ago, the Federal Executive Council (FEC) had approved April 2022 as the commencement date for the operations of the country’s national carrier, Nigeria Air.

“Nigeria Air Limited received from Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) an Air Transport License (ATL), signaling the end of the beginning of operations of the Airline. Commencement date of domestic operations will be announced in due course,” Mr Sirika tweeted on Monday.

Mr Sirika also revealed then that 49 per cent of the Nigeria Air project will be owned by equity partners and 46 per cent by Nigerians while the Federal Government will own five per cent of the shares.

The presentation of the ATL to the Interim Board of Nigeria Air took place at the Corporate Headquarters of the NCAA, Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport Abuja.

The ATL certificate signed by the director general of the NCAA, Musa Nuhu, will run for a period of five years (June 3rd, 2022 to June 2nd, 2027).

It is one of the certifications that must be acquired by airlines before they can commence operation while they await the all-important Air Operator Certificate (AOC) that will fully guarantee ‘Nigeria air’ the right to begin air services.

The new national airline is expected to provide scheduled and non-scheduled services.

Lifestyle

Market shut in Owo as traders mourn victims of church shooting

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“Let other custodians of other deities in Owo land also send their deities after the evil perpetrators.”

Traders at the popular Oja Oba Market in Owo, Ondo State, locked their shops Monday to mourn the victims of the deadly shooting at a church in the town on Sunday.

Gunmen stormed Saint Francis Catholic Church, Owa-luwa Street, Owo, as worshippers were marking the Feast of Pentecost and opened fire on the congregation.

They also detonated explosives as the worshippers scampered for safety.

At least 70 people were killed and injured, according to Oluwole Ogunmolasuyi, the lawmaker representing Owo Constituency I, who visited the scene shortly after the attack.

Police said the gunmen got to the church at about 11.30 a.m.

he police and the state government are, however, yet to confirm the number of people killed.

“Preliminary investigation revealed that the assailants approached the church during the service, started shooting from outside the church while others numbering about four shot directly into the church,” the police said in a statement.

As of Monday afternoon, bloodstains and a few body parts were still visible in the church.

Fragments of the shattered pulpit at the altar were strewn across the floor.

A stream of humans flowed in and out of the church, some muttering curses at the killers, others wiping tears from their faces.

Traders mourn

Governor Rotimi Akeredolu visited the scene of the attack, condoled the victims, and directed that flags be flown at half-mast in the state for seven days.

A yam seller at the Oja Oba Market who identified herself as Iya Idris said her shop will remain closed for two weeks.

“What money am I looking for that will make me open this shop today?” she said.

“Even if no one is asking us to lock our shops, I won’t still open this shop. I couldn’t sleep over the night…”

The trader burst into tears mid-speech.

About seven shops away, another trader, Sulaiman Kemisola, charged Sango worshippers to invoke their god against the perpetrators.

“This is the time to enjoy the beauty of our traditional worshippers, let them give oil to ‘Esu’ and provoke Sango, and its worshippers should not be allowed to sleep until the perpetrators are brought to book.

“Not just that, let other custodians of other deities in Owo land also send their deities after the evil perpetrators. I am ready to contribute money toward that if need be.”

An aged woman, identified as Iya Sinatu, who lives near the palace of the Olowo of Owo, appealed to the federal government to do all within its powers in ensuring the killers are brought to book.

The attack has been condemned by Nigerians and the international community.

The global head of the Catholic church, Pope Francis, on Monday, condemned the ‘unspeakable violence.’

“I was deeply saddened to learn of the horrific attack at Saint Francis church in Owo in #Nigeria. #PrayTogether for all those affected by this act of unspeakable violence and for the conversion of those blinded by hatred and violence,” the Pope wrote on Twitter.

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