Sanwo-Olu sues EFCC over alleged planned arrest, prosecution

The Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has sued the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over the alleged threat to arrest, detain and prosecute him after his tenure as governor.

Sanwo Olu’s lawyer, Darlington Ozurumba, filed the fundamental right enforcement suit before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of a Federal High Court in Abuja.

When the matter was called for mention on Tuesday, Ozurumba informed the court that he had withdrawn the earlier originating summons filed and replaced it with a new one.

The lawyer said the anti-graft agency had been duly served with the latest court documents.

However, the EFCC counsel, Hadiza Afegbua, said she had not seen the documents.

Besides, the proof of service of the processes was not in the court file. Justice Abdulmalik subsequently adjourned the matter until November 11 for further mention.

Sanwo-Olu sought a declaration that under and by virtue of the provisions of Section 37 of the 1999 Constitution, “the plaintiff, as a citizen of Nigeria, is entitled to right to private and family life as a minimum guarantee encapsulated under the Constitution of the Republic of Nigeria 1999, before, during and after occupation of public office created by the Constitution.”

He wants the court to declare that under and by virtue of the provisions of Sections 43 and 44(1) of the 1999 Constitution, he is entitled to acquire, own, operate and manage both moveable and immovable property.

This, he said, includes bank accounts as a minimum guarantee encapsulated under the constitution either before, during and after leaving public office of governor of a state.

He also wants the court to declare that upon community reading of the provisions of Sections 35(1) & (4) and 41(1) of the constitution, the threat of his investigation, arrest and detention by the EFCC during his tenure of office as governor is illegal.

He also said that the plan to arrest him was unconstitutional and a flagrant violation of his fundamental right to personal liberty and freedom of movement as guaranteed under Sections 35(1) & (4) and 41(1) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 ( as amended).

The governor prayed the court to declare that the incessant harassment, threat of arrest and detention, against him upon the EFCC’s instigation by his political adversaries based on false and politically motivated allegation of corruption is a misuse of executive powers and abuse of public office.

He further wants the court to declare it as an unwarranted interference with his fundamental right to personal liberty, freedom of movement, fair hearing and equal protection of the law as guaranteed by the constitution and the Africa Charter on Human & Peoples’ Rights, CAP A9 LFN 2004.

Sanwo-Olu, therefore, sought an order restraining the EFCC from harassing, intimidating, arresting, detaining, interrogating or prosecuting him in connection with his tenure as the governor of Lagos State.

He also prayed the court to make an order prohibiting and restraining the commission “from seizing the properties, the international passport and travel documents of the plaintiff or freezing the bank accounts of the plaintiff, his family members or in any other way to further breach the plaintiff’s fundamental rights guaranteed under the Constitution.”

He urged the court to make an order restraining the EFCC from inviting, arresting or detaining him in connection with his tenure as governor of the state or breaching his fundamental rights to personal liberty, fair hearing, private and family life, freedom of movement, and acquisition of moveable and immoveable property as enshrined in the laws.

Governor Otti sacks ABSU VC, other principal officers

The Abia government has announced the removal of the Vice Chancellor of the Abia State University, Uturu, Onyemachi Ogbulu.

The Commissioner for Information and Culture, Okey Kanu, announced the removal on Tuesday while briefing journalists at the Government House, Umuahia, on the outcome of Monday’s State Executive Council meeting.

Mr Kanu also announced the approval of the appointment of a new vice chancellor for the university, Ndukwe Okeudo.

He further announced the appointment of a one-time speaker of the state House of Assembly, Agwu U. Agwu, as pro-chancellor, Catherine Ifejika as chancellor, Onwubiko Dike as a member of the university’s governing council, and two deputy vice-chancellors.

Others include DVCs, four members of the Senate, two members of the congregation, one member of convocation, a representative from the State Ministry of Education and the appointment of a new bursar.

The commissioner also said the appointment was made following the approval of the recommendations of the visitation panel to the university.

He said the panel was constituted to evolve effective strategies for addressing the university’s challenges.

Mr Kanu described the appointment of some persons who would oversee the institution’s affairs as the first in the series of reforms that would take place in the university.

According to him, the appointments are to take effect from November 1.

NSCDC arrests fleeing bandit in Kano

The Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Kano State Command has arrested a suspected bandit, Umar Ibrahim, also known as Danlami Tela.

The 45-year-old suspect from Dikke, Funtua Local Government Area of Katsina State, was apprehended at Hotoro Yandodo in Nassarawa LG of Kano State.

NSCDC Public Relations Officer, Ibrahim Abdullahi, who confirmed the arrest in a statement at the weekend said the suspect is linked to a notorious bandit leader involved in kidnapping and banditry in Funtua.

Ibrahim, who was found with an Android phone, three SIM cards, and an ATM card, has been transferred to the Nigerian Air Force Forward Operating Base 215 in Funtua for further action.

Egypt proposes two-day ceasefire in Gaza for prisoner exchange

Egypt has proposed a temporary ceasefire to exchange four Israeli hostages for Palestinian prisoners even as the Gaza war continues to grind on.

Egypt proposed an initial two-day ceasefire in Gaza aimed at facilitating the exchange of four Israeli hostages held by Hamas for a number of Palestinian prisoners.

President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi made this announcement on Sunday, October 27 as Israeli military strikes resulted in the deaths of 45 Palestinians across the enclave.

During a joint press conference with Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune in Cairo, Sisi emphasised the importance of resuming negotiations within ten days of implementing the temporary ceasefire.

While there has been no immediate response from Israel or Hamas, a Palestinian official involved in the mediation process told Reuters agency that Hamas is open to the new proposals but has maintained that any agreement must lead to an end to the conflict and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.

Israel has alwyays stated that the war cannot conclude until Hamas is dismantled as a military force and a governing authority in Gaza.

The war erupted following a Hamas attack on southern Israel on October 7 last year, which resulted in the deaths of 1,200 people and the abduction of over 250 hostages, according to Israeli figures.

The ongoing conflict has devastated Gaza, with health officials reporting that the death toll from Israeli air and ground assaults has reached nearly 43,000. The densely populated enclave remains largely in ruins.

An official briefed on the talks mentioned that discussions in Doha are focused on establishing a short-term ceasefire and facilitating the release of some hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. The goal is to achieve a temporary halt in hostilities that could pave the way for a more enduring ceasefire.

WWE star Ric Flair’s stepson dies by suicide

Sebastian Kidder, stepson of wrestling legend Ric Flair and a promising young musician, has d!ed at age 24 from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound.

His mother, Wendy Barlow, confirmed the heartbreaking news to TMZ Sports, expressing the family’s profound grief.

The incident occurred Saturday afternoon, October 26 at the family’s home in Georgia, and police have launched an investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding Kidder’s de@th. “I am devastated and shocked. This is an epidemic with our young men. And mental health…” Barlow shared, highlighting the emotional toll and calling attention to the mental health challenges facing young people today.

Kidder’s music career had recently begun to gain traction. Earlier this summer, he appeared on FOX’s Good Day Atlanta, where he performed and discussed plans for his debut album. Friends, fans, and family members were hopeful for his future in the music industry.

Ric Flair, who married Barlow in 2018 after a long relationship, has not yet made a public statement about the tragic loss. Flair had been a significant figure in Sebastian’s life for over a decade, dating back to when he and Wendy first began their relationship.

The loss of Kidder has left the family devastated, and his passing is a stark reminder of the importance of addressing mental health issues among young people.

Former NFL star Nigel Bradham arrested in Florida

Former Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Nigel Bradham was arrested earlier this month in Florida after being pulled over for speeding while driving with a suspended license, TMZ Sports reports.

The 35-year-old was stopped on October 10 in Tallahassee, where officers say he was driving 78 mph in a 55 mph zone in a 2023 KIA SUV with his two children.

According to the incident report from the Florida Highway Patrol, Bradham admitted to driving despite being aware of his suspended license. Officers discovered he also had an active warrant in Leon County for possession of a controlled substance. Following the traffic stop, Bradham was handcuffed and taken to a local jail. He has since been released, but court records show he now faces a felony charge for driving with a suspended or revoked license in Wakulla County.

This arrest marks another run-in with the law for Bradham. In 2021, he was charged after police reportedly found over three pounds of marijuana and firearms in his vehicle. Bradham, drafted by the Buffalo Bills in 2012, joined the Eagles in 2016 and contributed to their historic Super Bowl victory. He retired with an impressive 619 tackles over 116 games in his NFL career.

Hoodlums kidnap UNN Dean, others along Ugwuogo-Opi-Nsukka Road

A senior lecturer in the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, UNN, Prof Oguejiofo Ujam was on Sunday abducted along the Ugwuogo-Nike-Opi-Nsukka Road.

Oguejiofor is the Dean, School of General Studies of the university.

The kidnapping of the varsity don is one in a series of abductions along the road within the last one week.

In a post on his Facebook Page, a social media influencer, Chijinkem Ugwuanyi wrote, “Prof Oguejiofo T. Ujam was kidnapped yesterday morning along Ugwuogo-Nike-Opi-Nsukka road.

“He is a lecturer at the Department of Pure and Industrial Chemistry, and Dean, School of General Studies University Of Nigeria Nsukka.

“Our prayers are needed for his safe return to us, unharmed.”

Similarly, a lecturer, who spoke to our correspondent under anonymity, confirmed that the incident was posted on the WhatsApp page of the Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU, UNN chapter.

“Prof. Oguejiofor Ujam, the Dean of GS was kidnapped this morning along Opi-Enugu Road. Please, we need urgent help,” the post on ASUU platform read.

There have been concerns over the spate of abductions along the Ugwuogo-Opi-Nsukka Road despite the number of police and military checkpoints along that axis.

The hoodlums were also reported to have abducted several other road users on a daily basis in the last one week.

Tenants flog landlord for robbing neighbourhood

A landlord, identified as Obong Ete, whose house is on Waddel Street Calabar South of Cross River State, has been beaten to a pulp by his tenants and neighbours for robbing them.

The neighbourhood flogged the landlord with horse whips and canes; hit him with planks and severely beat him up.

The incident happened on Sunday just when his tenants and other neighbours were about to depart for Sunday worship.

Residents of the area complained that Obong Ete, in his 30s, a bachelor, was in the habit of terrorising them almost every night.

One of the residents, John Akpan said this young man, despite being a landlord continually steals food items such as bunches of bananas and household items, dispossessing neighbours of their valuables at night.

“Obong Ete has been doing this for a long time. It is good that he is again publicly disgraced. He doesn’t want to repent. Many times, youth leaders and vigilante groups have traced stolen items to his apartment, and beaten him up”, Akpan narrated.

A tenant, Magdalene Effiom, said “We learnt from his family people that he once stole from a church, and worshippers laid curses on him. Perhaps these curses are affecting him.

“Other neighbours whom he has burgled their homes have also been cursing him, too.”

After the severe beatings, the youth leaders who have often handed him over to the divisional police officer of Mbukpa station, forced him to swear an oath that he will not rob or terrorize his tenants and neighbours any further.

Brutalized Obong Ete said, “I am sorry for stealing. I swear that I will not continue to steal again.”

He agreed that if he ever stole again, they were free to mete out any measures deemed fit.

The youth leaders strongly suspected a young man who cohabited with him as an accomplice.

They forced him out of the landlord’s apartment, warning him never to return to the community or face the long arm of the law if he ever did.

In a reaction, the Police PRO, Irene Ugbo disapproved of the brutalization, advising that such cases should always be handed over to the police.

FCT police arrest passenger over assault on Bolt driver in viral video

The Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Police Command has confirmed the arrest of one Brandy Nwatu, a passenger, who allegedly assaulted a Bolt driver in a viral video.

A video clip which captured a Bolt driver being assaulted by a passenger in the Galadima area of the FCT had emerged on social media last week.

A statement by the spokesperson of the command, SP Josephine Adeh said following a distress call over the incident, Police officers led by the Divisional Police Officer, Galadima, promptly responded and intervened in the situation.

She said the passenger was taken into custody, while the driver, Emmanuel Ebhohimen was rushed to the Federal Medical Centre, Jabi for medical attention.

According to the image maker, preliminary investigations into the incident indicated that an argument over luggage handling escalated into a physical altercation resulting in the driver’s injuries.

“Nwatu was later released on bail, with a requirement to return for further action on 28th October 2024.

“The FCT Police Command thanks the public for their prompt reporting, which helped to mitigate tensions”, she added.

Ogun State government suspends teacher over pupil’s death

Ogun State Government, through the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, has suspended the teacher who punished Monday Ariyo, an SS2 student of Obada Grammar School, Obada, Idi-emi.

Ariyo died on Friday at the Federal Medical Center, Abeokuta, after a teacher allegedly flogged him and asked him to perform 162 frog jumps.

The teacher was reported to have taken a trash can to Ariyo’s class and told the pupils not to break it, but the deceased replied the teacher, saying the dustbin was bought with the students’ money.

Ariyo who was flogged and punished because of his response collapsed.

Following the incident, the state government in a post on its X handle on Sunday, said the teacher has been arrested and the Principal of the school, Mrs. Tamrat Onaolapo, queried for allowing corporal punishment to be used on the pupil against the established rules and regulations in the state.

The post added that a letter of condolence signed by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry was sent to the bereaved family, commiserating with them on the sudden death of their loving son and promising to get justice for the family.

Part of the post reads: “The Ogun State Government, through the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, has suspended a teacher alleged to have beaten and punished one Master Monday Arijo, an SS2 student of Obada Grammar School, Obada, Idi-emi, which reportedly led to his demise.

“The principal was given 24 hours to explain her actions and why disciplinary actions should not be taken against her for acting against the instructions of constituted authority.

“The letter, which was signed by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, described the late learner as an exceptional pupil who would be missed by his colleagues, the school, and the state at large.

“It then prayed for requisite strength for the family to bear the irreplaceable loss as well as for the repose of the departed soul.”

Meanwhile, the State Chairman of the Academic Staff Union of Secondary Schools (ASUSS) Felix Agbesanwa in a statement obtained by DAILY POST, said the deceased was not the only one punished.

Agbesanwa explained that the whole class was beaten and Ariyo on regaining consciousness
said he was involved in a bike accident prior to the time he was punished.

Police begin orderly trial of killer cop over murder of musician

The police command in Enugu State has begun an orderly room trial of Inspector Joseph Ozonwanji, allegedly involved in the murder of Enugu-based musician, Chikezie Nwamba, popularly known as “Igbo-Jah”.

The command’s spokesman, DSP Daniel Ndukwe, in a statement on Sunday in Enugu, said that the orderly room trial followed the Command’s Criminal Investigation Department conclusion of investigation into the incident.

Mr Ndukwe said that “the detention and investigation of Ozonwanji happened shortly after his alleged shooting of the musician on Friday, Oct. 25, within the Anti-Cultism Tactical Squad Headquarters, Enugu.

“Consequently, the orderly room trial of the implicated Ozonwanji has commenced and the trial will facilitate the next course of action in accordance with the Nigeria Police Force’s disciplinary procedures.

“The state’s Commissioner of Police, Mr Kanayo Uzuegbu, has ordered the immediate redeployment of the Officer-in-Charge of the Anti-Cultism Tactical Squad, SP Ekeleme Chidobe, to allow for a comprehensive review of the Squad’s operations.

“The commissioner reaffirms his commitment to ensuring that justice is done in the case and maintaining the highest standards of professionalism among all police officers in the state.

“The state police boss calls on the citizenry to continue to keep faith and support the police, especially in bringing this case to a justifiable conclusion,” he said.

Widows of murdered policemen recieve cash, food in Abia

Widows and other family members of policemen who were killed in active service have received cash, food, and other relief items from the Peace Fund for Victims of Insecurity in Nigeria.

The items were presented to the families at the Abia State Police Command headquarters in Umuahia on Friday, during the commencement of the distribution in the South East region.

The presentations were done at the conclusion of the group’s preliminary documentation about the slain officers and interface with security high commands in the country.

Five profiled families received a cash gift of 1 million Naira each and food items, even as the other nine families who also got food items will receive their own cash after the verification of their records by the Peace Fund.

Explaining the development, the Secretary of the Peace Fund for Victims of Insecurity, Mary Ikoku, noted that the fund was created to provide succor to families of security officials who paid the ultimate price for serving their fatherland.

In his speech, the Commissioner of Police, Abia State Police Command, Danladi Isah, thanked the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, for setting up the Fund, saying that the gifts given to the families of slain officers will encourage the serving officers.

The Commissioner of Police, who said that policemen encounter danger every day trying to secure the lives of Nigerians, stated that the Inspector-General Kayode Egbetokun has established and rolled out many welfare schemes to support serving policemen and the families of the late officers.

Anglican priest Kidnapped in Anambra

An Anglican priest identified as Ven David Arinze Ajaefobi, who is said to be the Archdeacon of Oyi Central Archdeaconry and Vicar of St James’ Parish, Awkuzu, has been reportedly kidnapped.

A source said that the cleric was allegedly kidnapped by unidentified individuals on Saturday night.

The source said, “The abduction occurred around 9:00 PM on Saturday, October 26, 2024, at the entrance gate of St James’ Parish, Awkuzu, in Oyi Local Government Area of Anambra State.”

As of the time of filing this report, no contact has been made by the abductors to the priest’s relatives for ransom or reason for his abduction.

The source said the church has announced prayer sessions for his safe release.

When reached for confirmation, the Police Public Relations Officer of Anambra State Police Command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said the police had not received any report of such an incident.

200 environmental law violators charged in Kwara

At least 200 violators of the Kwara State environmental law were arrested and charged before mobile courts across the state during Saturday’s environmental sanitation exercise.

This was contained in a statement by the spokesman of the state Ministry of Environment, Kamaldeen Aliagan, in Ilorin on Sunday.

The statement said the Commissioner for Environment, Nafisat Musa Buge, again warned residents and commercial transporters against violating the environmental law of the state during the monthly sanitation exercise.

She expressed displeasure about some commercial motor parks violating the environmental sanitation law, urging them to desist from such actions capable of sabotaging the environmental law.

The commissioner urged residents to continually abide by the environmental laws of the state to enhance a clean and healthy environment, habitable to all, and attract investors for the overall development of the state.

Represented by her Permanent Secretary, Abubakar Ayinla, the commissioner was excited at the level of compliance among the residents of the state, adding that, “with what we observed today in the metropolis and the reports received from local government areas of the state, the level of compliance has drastically improved.”

“More efforts, therefore, need to be put in place to ensure sustainability in order to promote a hygienic environment with the aim of preventing epidemics in society,” she added.

The commissioner appealed to Kwarans to adhere strictly to the sanitation laws of the state for the benefit of all.

Nafisat, however, commended security agencies and various voluntary organizations for their tireless support in ensuring a smooth sanitation exercise.

She also charged members of the public not to relent in their efforts to make Kwara a pacesetter and a clean and hygienic environment state.

Tinubu Congratulates Vietnam President-Elect Luong Cuong

President Bola Tinubu has congratulated President Luong Cuong of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam on his historic election to the esteemed leadership position by the parliament.

Cuong, 67, has served in the Vietnamese army for over 40 years and has been a Politburo member since 2021.

Tinubu, who spoke through his media aide, Bayo Onanuga, said he welcomes President Cuong’s post-election promise to promote Vietnam “as a friend, a trusted partner, an active and responsible member of the international community.”

He reaffirmed that the enduring warmth and friendliness of the relations between Nigeria and Vietnam, as evidenced by the steady growth in trade and cultural exchange, are rooted in a shared commitment to fostering a more peaceful world.

The Nigerian President assured the Vietnamese leader of Nigeria’s commitment to improving bilateral relations across various sectors, including trade, agriculture, food production, education, and cultural and technological exchange.

He said he hopes for President Cuong’s successful leadership in serving his people and humanity.

Helicopter crash: No trace of missing persons, debris after 48 hours – NSIB

More than 48 hours after the unfortunate incident of a helicopter crash in the Port Harcourt area of Rivers state, the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau has said neither the debris of the chopper nor the three remaining persons have been found.

In a statement on Saturday by the Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance of the NSIB, Bimbo Oladeji stated that “as at 07:30 am, local time, rescue teams resumed search operations in line with global best practices,” but left the scene, same day without finding anything nor anything.

According to the bureau, the search area was expanded as part of ongoing efforts to locate debris or signs of survivors.

On Thursday, A Sikorsky SK76 helicopter with registration number 5NBQG, operated by Eastwind Aviation, crashed on its way to the FPSO – NUIMS ANTAN.There were 8 persons on board (6 passengers and 2 crew members).

The NSIB, which has commenced investigation of the incident, stated that rescue operations had continued to see the possibility of survivors.

The statement reads partly, “On the morning of October 25, 2024, at 07:30 AM local time, rescue teams resumed search operations. The search area was expanded as part of ongoing efforts to locate debris or signs of survivors.

“A team of NSIB Aviation Safety Investigators and Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development representatives arrived at the Nuim Antan facility at 11:30 AM local time. Investigators conducted interviews with relevant staff to gather information pertinent to the ongoing investigation. The investigative team completed their on-site interviews and departed the FPSO by 3:24 PM.

“At approximately 6:15 PM, search operations were suspended due to diminishing daylight. Unfortunately, no debris, survivors, or bodies were recovered during the day’s search.

“However, the divers successfully established a secured diving perimeter at an expected location of the wreck, which will guide the operations planned for tomorrow.

“The perimeter depth has been measured at 40-50 meters, and additional diving equipment and resources will be deployed to aid in the continuation of these efforts.”

Quoting the Director General of the NSIB, Captain Alex Badeh, Olajide noted, “We acknowledge the tireless efforts of the amalgamated rescue teams and supporting partners. We will continue these operations with every resource necessary and appreciate the cooperation and patience of all stakeholders involved.”

Kano shares N28.4 million among 62 victims of fire disaster

The state governor Abba Kabir-Yusuf made the disclosure while launching the cash distribution to the affected persons in Kano.

The governor, represented by the state Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Amina Abdullahi, said the gesture was part of the state government’s intervention to bring succour to the affected victims.

She said, “We are here to console and support the victims and to help ease their pains with this token.’’

The Executive Secretary, Kano State Emergency Management Agency, Isyaku Kubarachi, said the victims lost property valued at N835.9 million.

Mr Kubarachi said, “Out of the 62 victims, seven lost their lives, while 11 victims from Dakata small scale benefited from the gesture. We conducted an assessment to determine the extent of damage and prepared a comprehensive report to the state government for assistance.’’

Mr Kubarachi thanked Mr Kabir-Yusuf, the Nigeria Red Cross, National Emergency Management Agency, National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, internally displaced person and other stakeholders for their support.

Also, NEMA Coordinator, Kano Territorial Office, Dr Nuraddeen Abdullahi, urged members of the public, especially women using firewood and charcoal, to handle fire with care.

He advised them to always put off their electrical appliances whenever they were going out or going to bed to avoid inferno.

Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Ahmadu Sale, from Tudun Wada, Nasarawa Local Government Area, thanked the government for the support.

He said, “My son, his wife, and five children lost their lives in an inferno due to electrical fault sometime in 2024 at about 3:00 a.m.’’

Trigger-happy policeman murders Enugu popular musician, Igbo-Jah

Tension is high in Enugu, the Coal City capital, following the killing of a popular Ogene musician, Igbo Jah, by a Police officer attached to the Anti-Cult Unit of the Enugu State Police Command.

Angry youths are settling bonfires at the Obiagu and Asata areas of the metropolis in protest.

It was gathered that the musician was shot by an Anti-Cult Police operative, Friday night.

Sources said the musician attended an event at the anti-cult office, during which a policeman shot him.

Igbo Jah was rushed to a nearby hospital where he was confirmed dead on arrival.

The Enugu State Police Command confirmed the incident in a statement on Saturday by its spokesman, DSP Daniel Ndukwe.

According to him, “A male Police Inspector serving in the Anti-Cultism Tactical Squad of the Enugu State Police Command has been arrested and detained for the alleged murder of a male traditional Ogene musician, Okezie Chikezie Mba, popularly known as Igbo-Jah.

“The incident occurred around 8:10 p.m. on October 25, 2024, at the Tactical Squad’s Headquarters.

“The musician was reportedly leaving the Squad’s Headquarters after a friendly visit when, for reasons yet to be ascertained, the police officer fired his rifle, hitting the victim.

“He was immediately rushed to the hospital, where he was confirmed dead by the attending doctor. His body has been deposited in the mortuary for preservation and autopsy.”

Ndukwe added that “the Commissioner of Police, CP Kanayo Uzuegbu, has ordered the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the State CID to conduct a full-scale investigation that will facilitate prompt and appropriate disciplinary actions against the police officer.

“The Commissioner empathises and consoles the victim’s family, friends, and associates, describing the unfortunate incident as unacceptable. He assures that the police officer and anyone else found culpable will be sanctioned in line with the law to serve as a deterrent.

“CP Kanayo urges everyone connected to the victim to remain calm and cooperate with the police to ensure that justice is served.”

Dangote truck rams into apartment in Ogun State

A fully-loaded Dangote Cement truck with registration number DGW109XA rammed into a house in Imasayi Yewa North local government area of Ogun state.

The incident occurred on Friday night when residents had already gone to bed.

No life was lost as the
occupants of the house, who were asleep in the parlour, escaped being crushed by a whisker.

The Olu of Imasayi, Oba Lukman Kuoye, when contacted on Saturday, said the incident happened in front of the house where he was living and thanked God that no lives were lost.

He lamented that this incident, among others, was one of the things they faced with Dangote drivers.

The monarch, however, urged the residents to take laws into their own, adding that efforts are underway to investigate the root cause of the accident.

He said “A Fully loaded Dangote Cement Plc truck swerved into a house in Imasayi yesterday night, God saved the people that slept in the sitting room

“The people inside the room escaped untimely death. It happened in front of the house where I was living before moving into my new house

“This is one of the things we are facing with Dangote drivers”, he said.

Rainstorm damages electricity poles in Ekiti communities

Residents of many neighborhoods in Ado Ekiti and other towns in Ekiti State have been thrown into darkness as electric poles were destroyed by a rainstorm Friday evening.

Communities affected include Ajebamidele, Omisanjana, Atlas—all in Ado Ekiti—as well as Ikere Ekiti, Ise Ekiti, and Emure Ekiti, which are experiencing power outages due to the destroyed poles.

A heavy rainfall swept across the neighborhoods Friday night and into the early hours of Saturday, leaving many residents stranded and disrupting traffic, social, and economic activities.

The rain, which started some minutes before 5 p.m. on Friday, ceased briefly before restarting around 6 p.m., accompanied by violent storms that brought down no fewer than six concrete electric poles.

The high-tension cables on the poles connect the 132/133 KVA power substation in Omisanjana and neighboring towns of Ikere, Ise and Emure.

The affected poles were brought down by the rainstorm within the vicinity of the Deeper Life Campground in Ajebamidele, a densely populated neighborhood in the Ekiti State capital.

The main access road, which starts from the Ado-Ikere Highway and terminates at Omisanjana, has been blocked by the fallen electric poles.

The road, constructed by the Biodun Oyebanji Administration and commissioned by Vice President Kashim Shettima in June, has been left deserted due to the development.

Many residents on their way home from work were stranded for hours. While some stayed inside their vehicles, others sought shelter in nearby shops and houses.

As the rain intensified during the confusion, a number of motorists had to turn back to take the much longer route through Ajilosun, Ijigbo, and Ilawe Road to reach their destinations via Omisanjana.

It was observed that due to the road blockage caused by the fallen electric poles, many motorists abandoned their vehicles in some locations and trekked home in frustration.

Apart from the Ajebamidele neighborhood, the development has reportedly plunged neighboring Omisanjana community and Ikere town into darkness, as the affected poles supplied electricity to them.

Shortly after the rain subsided, some officials from the Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC) visited the scene to assess the damaged poles ahead of a possible rescue mission on Saturday.