President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the death of retired Supreme Court Justice Uthman Muhammad Argungu, describing his passing as a significant loss to both the nation and himself personally.

Justice Argungu passed away at the age of 90 and was laid to rest on Sunday in Argungu, Kebbi State, in accordance with Islamic rites.

In a statement issued on Sunday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu praised the late jurist as a paragon of integrity and dedication who devoted his life to the service of humanity and Nigeria.

“Justice Uthman Argungu was not just a towering figure in Nigeria’s judiciary but also a cherished associate and mentor. His legacy of unwavering commitment to justice and public service will forever remain a source of inspiration,” the statement said.

Justice Argungu’s distinguished career spanned decades, beginning as a teacher in the old Sokoto Province before he was called to the bar in 1965.

He rose to prominence in the judiciary, eventually being appointed to the Supreme Court in 1993.

His expertise and influence transcended national borders, as he also served as a visiting justice on the Supreme Court of the Gambia.

President Tinubu recalled Justice Argungu’s selfless contributions to national development, noting his role in shaping the legal landscape of Nigeria.

“His immense contributions to the judiciary have left an indelible mark on the nation. We have lost a statesman of rare caliber,” the statement said.

In addition to offering prayers for the repose of Justice Argungu’s soul, President Tinubu extended his condolences to the late jurist’s family, the government, and the people of Kebbi State.

He assured them of the nation’s solidarity during this period of mourning.

Ondo state government has issued series of directives aimed at regulating public gatherings and ensuring the protection of lives and property during events.

The directives was in response to tragedies that occurred in various parts of the country when almost 100 persons have been killed during stampede.

Ondo Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Olukayode Ajulo, issued the directives based on powers vested in the Attorney General under Section 195 of the Constitution of Nigeria 1999 (as amended), Sections 62 and 95 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Law of Ondo State 2015, and Sections 2 and 4 of the Nigeria Police Act 2020.

Ajulo said the series of directives outlined improved crowd control measures and documented in Directive No. 01-1224.

He said the guidelines prioritized public safety even as it respected citizens’ constitutional rights to peaceful assembly.

The Attorney-General warned that any violations of the directives might result to legal action against the organizers or participants.

Dr. Ajulo explained that the directives also called for enhanced collaboration between event organizers, law enforcement agencies, and local government authorities.

He said the measures were designed to protect lives and property and urged ull compliance from all parties involved.

“These crowd control measures are a testament to Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa’s commitment to fostering a secure environment for public gatherings in Ondo State. Stakeholders are advised to familiarize themselves with the directives to avoid legal repercussions and contribute to a safer society,” Ajulo concluded.

The directives stressed the importance of proactive measures, such as communication protocols, venue accessibility, use of drones, CCTV, availability of security personnel amongst others.

President-elect Donald Trump has nominated TV producer Mark Burnett as a special envoy to the United Kingdom.

Announcing the appointment on Truth Social, Mr Trump praised Mr Burnett’s career and potential to foster stronger ties between the UK and the U.S.

“With a distinguished career in television production and business, Mark brings a unique blend of diplomatic acumen and international recognition to this important role,” Mr Trump stated.

Mr Burnett, 64, is a household name in entertainment, credited with producing some of the most successful reality television shows, including ‘Survivor’, ‘Shark Tank’, ‘The Voice’, and ‘The Apprentice’.

His partnership with Mr Trump on the latter show, which aired from 2004 to 2017, propelled both men to global fame.

A former MGM Television and Digital Group chairman, Mr Burnett’s career spans over three decades and includes 13 Emmy Awards.

Beyond television, he has been recognised as an innovator blending entertainment with business strategy.

In his new role, Mr Burnett will focus on strengthening trade and investment relations between the two countries and promoting cultural exchanges.

Mr Trump emphasised that Mr Burnett’s international profile and understanding of global markets make him uniquely qualified for the position.

Federal Capital Territory minister Nyesom Wike has directed government hospitals to provide free treatment to the people who sustained injuries during a stampede at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama, Abuja.

Mr Wike gave the directive in a statement on Saturday.

No fewer than 10 people, including children, lost their lives while 10 others sustained injuries in the stampede during the distribution of food items to less privileged and the elderly by the church.

The sad incident occurred around 6:30 a.m. on Saturday.

Mr Wike said the FCT Administration would ensure that the injured received adequate medical attention.

The minister, who commiserated with the victims, also directed that henceforth, police permission should be obtained by individuals or organisations planning public distribution of palliatives, either food items or cash.

Describing the incident as “painful,” Mr Wike prayed for the repose of the souls of the lives that were lost and fortitude for their families to bear the irreparable loss.

He commended the police and other security agencies for their prompt intervention.

Meanwhile, the police have ordered organisations, religious bodies, groups, or individuals to notify the police when planning public events, charitable activities, or large gatherings in the territory.

In a statement by FCT spokeswoman Josephine Adeh, the police said failure to comply with the directive will result in the organisers being held liable for any incident or loss of life resulting from negligence.

Tyson Fury’s mission to avenge his only professional defeat ended in crushing disappointment Saturday evening as he lost on a unanimous points decision to unified heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.

Another classic encounter between the well-matched rivals ended in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, with Usyk retaining his world championship belts by finishing 116-112 ahead on all three judges’ scorecards.

The Ukrainian thus continues to hold the titles of the World Boxing Council (WBC), World Boxing Association (WBA), and World Boxing Organisation (WBO).

The result was a fair reflection of the Ukrainian’s control of the rematch, given he set the pace for most of the 12 rounds. He was the harder worker, landing more frequently and with greater impact.

Fury described his grim-faced demeanour this week as “beast mode,” while his greater focus was evident on a night when there was no showboating.

Simply, he was unable to make a dent in the extraordinary Usyk.

Usyk’s performance confirmed his status as an all-time great, and the 37-year-old will now look to become undisputed champion for the second time.

This will be by toppling International Boxing Federation (IBF) champion Daniel Dubois.

Fury entered the fight at a fully-clothed 20stones 1lbs, almost four stones heavier than Usyk.

From the start, he took to the centre of the ring, showing more intent to carry the fight to his opponent. Towering over the champion, the Briton spat out his jab, but he also took shots at the body.

By the second round, he was stalked around the ring by Usyk, which was a theme of the first fight. Usyk was setting the pace, but both fighters landed at a lively start to the clash, with Fury’s jab causing problems.

Usyk connected with two big left hands in a fourth round that ebbed and flowed, and as the fight approached the halfway stage, it was desperately close.

Fury staggered the Ukrainian with a short left uppercut and, having taken a flurry of blows to his body, he hit back with intent. Unlike their first meeting, in which the Briton suffered the first loss of his career, there was no grandstanding from the challenger.

The fifth was the Gypsy King’s best round yet as he imposed his size and power, all while working behind his pinpoint jab.

But he was caught several times in the sixth.

Fury’s output began to drop, and he was being driven backwards with Usyk’s left hand, which gave him plenty of problems. It was relentless pressure from Usyk, who put together a lovely sequence of shots in the eighth and finished the three minutes by backing Fury up against the ropes.

The ninth round was the turning point in May when the bell saved 36-year-old Fury.

While those dramatics were missing this time, Usyk showed a similar purpose as he continued building momentum. He swarmed over the bigger man in the 10th and took shots himself.

As the last two rounds arrived, it was Fury who needed to do something special to catch the judges’ eyes.

A storming final round saw the rivals exchange blows, each having their moments in a high-quality finish full of courage and skill.
Once again the judges were called upon to separate the two and there could be no complaints.

Usyk emerged a conclusive winner on each card to continue his reign as the division’s dominant force.

U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that a federal grand jury has returned an indictment charging Guodeng Chen, Didi Huang, Fangfang Yan, all of Pittsford, NY, Ruimao Yang, Yan Han, and Wen Xiao Zhang, all of New York, NY, with conspiracy to transport and sell stolen goods in interstate commerce, which carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison.

Defendants Chen, Huang, and Yan are also charged with transportation and sale of stolen goods in interstate commerce, which carry a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan K. McGuire, who is handling the case, stated that according to the indictment and a previously filed complaint, the defendants conspired to commit a series of thefts of used cooking oil, which can be refined into biodiesel fuel and re-sold for $4.00 to $5.00 per gallon, from numerous restaurants within and around Monroe County.

Defendants Yang, Han, and Zhang drove trucks to restaurants and Zhang stole used cooking oil from oil collection tanks located outside of those restaurants.

The defendants then delivered the stolen cooking oil to Chen, Huang, and Yan at a warehouse. Han worked in the warehouse and assisted in the collection and storage of the stolen cooking oil. Chen, Huang, and Yan subsequently sold the stolen cooking oil to a broker and caused the stolen cooking oil to be transported across state lines to a refinery located in Pennsylvania.

On April 8 2022, Chen, Huang, and Yan caused approximately 45,000 pounds of stolen, used cooking oil to be transported from the Western District of New York to Erie, Pennsylvania, receiving more than $5,000 for the shipment.

On April 28, 2022, Chen, Huang, and Yan caused another approximately 45,000 pounds of stolen, used cooking oil to be shipped from the Western District of New York to Erie, Pennsylvania, again receiving more than $5,000 for this shipment.

The indictment is the result of an investigation by the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Todd Baxter, Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Erin Keegan, and the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division, under the direction of Harry Chavis, Acting Executive Special Agent in Charge, New York Field Office.

The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

U.S. lawmaker Kay Granger, who went missing for over six months, has been found in the memory care facility, Dallas Express reported.

Ms Granger, 81, was set to end a nearly 30-year career in the House in January. She has not visited her office for the past six months nor been on record voting for or against any matters in the House since July.

“We then received a tip from a Granger constituent who shared that the Congresswoman has been residing at a local memory care and assisted living home for some time after having been found wandering lost and confused in her former Cultural District/West 7th neighbourhood,” the report said.

It added, “The Dallas Express team visited the facility to confirm whether Granger was residing there and to inquire about how she planned to vote on the spending bill. Upon arrival, two employees confirmed that Granger is indeed living at the facility.

“However, we were not permitted to conduct an interview regarding the current spending debate in the House of Representatives and how or if Ms Granger planned to vote.”

Local officials were furious to discover Ms Granger’s absence with a month remaining to complete her term and important votes still taking place in Washington on a daily basis.

The U.S. House of Representatives and Senate, on Saturday, passed a short-term government funding bill minutes after the deadline to avert a government shutdown following two previous failed attempts.

Tarrant County GOP chair Bo French described Ms Granger’s absence as troubling, citing implications for her district.

Another Republican Committeeman in her district, Rolando Garcia, expressed utter disappointment in Ms Granger, tagging her absence as a “sad and humiliating way to end her political career.”

Ms Granger has been serving as the U.S. representative for Texas’s 12th congressional district since 1997. She is a member of the Republican Party and was chair of the U.S. House Committee on Appropriations until 2024.

Emilio Chirico, age 56, the Station Manager for the DeWitt, New York Post Office, has been charged by indictment with wire fraud, misappropriation of postal funds, and false entries and reports, announced United States Attorney Carla B. Freedman and Matthew Modafferi of the United States Postal Service, Office of Inspector General (USPS-OIG).

The indictment alleges that between January 2021 and March 2023, Chirico stole $81,553.94 in stamps from the DeWitt Post Office and falsified postal records to conceal the theft of the stamps.

Chirico has been the station manager at the DeWitt Post Office since March 2012.

The charges filed against Chirico carry a maximum sentence of 30 years in federal prison, a fine of up to $1,000,000.00, and a term of supervised release of up to 5 years.

A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, and other factors.

The charges in the indictment are merely accusations.

The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

The United States Postal Service, Office of Inspector General (USPS-OIG) is investigating the case, which is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Tamara B. Thomson and Michael F. Perry.

An auto accident along Ago – Iwoye – Ilisan road has claimed the lives of three students of Olabisi Obasanjo University Ago – Iwoye, Ogun State.

The accident, which occurred at about 3.30 pm on Friday due to “overspeeding,” also injured two other students of the institution.

Superintendent of Police (SP) Omolola Odutola, the Police Public Relations Officer at Ogun State Police Command, confirmed the accident on Saturday, December 21.

SP Odutola identified the vehicle involved as an Opel Safira with a license plate Lagos AAA-126HE, driven by Adekunkle Adebiyi, a resident of Sunmibare Street, Awa Ijebu.

“The Opel car was travelling at high speed towards Ilisan from the Ago Iwoye direction when the driver lost control, causing the vehicle to flip into the bushes. A male passenger whose identity has not yet been confirmed but is believed to be a student from OOU died at the scene. His body has been taken to the General Hospital Ijebu Ode mortuary.

“Additionally, two female students from Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU) Dada Oluwanifesimi, 18, a sophomore in Mass Communication, and Miracle Ogo Oluwa Daniel, 19, a junior—were rushed to Love and Care Hospital but unfortunately succumbed to their injuries while receiving treatment. Two other OOU students are currently receiving medical care at the OOU Medical Centre on the mini Campus. The vehicle has been recovered and is being stored safely at the station,” SP Odutola stated.

Meanwhile, the Vice-Chancellor, of Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), Prof. Ayodeji Agboola, has expressed heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims of the Friday, December 20 fatal accident along the Ilisan-Ago-Iwoye road.

The lone fatal accident claimed the lives of three students of OOU who were identified as Nifesimi Dada, 300 Level Geology; Opeyemi Joshua, 200 Level Taxation; and Ogooluwa Miracle Daniel, 200 Level Mass Communication.

A statement on Saturday by the spokesperson of the university, Wale Balogun, quoted Prof. Agboola as stating that the university remains deeply saddened by the tragic loss of the students in the incident.

Four suspected members of Ambazonian rebels have been arrested by the troops of the 6 Brigade Nigerian Army/Sector 3 of Operation Whirl Stroke.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that Ambazonia is a rebel group operating in neighbouring Cameroon Republic.

The acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, Capt. Olubodunde Oni, in a statement on Saturday, said the suspects were arrested at a hotel in Takum town.

Oni said the suspects were tracked and apprehended based on credible intelligence.

According to him, during initial interrogation, the suspects confessed to being part of the rebel group involved in arms proliferation in exchange for cocoa with their Nigerian collaborators.

A young lady identified as Blessing Jonathan, has been arrested for throwing her 10-month old baby, Prevail, into a river at Aviara, Isoko South Council area of Delta State.

It was gathered that Blessing, whose age could not be ascertained, committed the crime on October 31.

The suspect said her action was borne out of “anger,” following taunts and insults from her peers.

She claimed that her friends and other women mocked her by making derogatory remarks that she had a “fatherless child”.

Unsettled and angered by their uncharitable remarks, Blessing resolved to throw the baby into a river.

Her evil deed wasn’t discovered immediately as the Police only received report of the missing baby early December, when report of the floating corpse made the rounds.

On retrieving the corpse, it was discovered to be the remains of the missing child.

Confessing to the crime, the suspect said she didn’t know what came over her to carry out such dastardly act and that she “misses” her baby.

The State Police spokesman, SP Bright Edafe, said she would be charged to court soon.

Kayode Fayemi, the immediate past governor of Ekiti State and former chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic loss of over 30 children in a stampede during an event in Ibadan.

In a statement issued by his media office, Fayemi extended his condolences to the families of the victims and the Oyo state government, describing the incident as heartbreaking and a sad shadow over the Christmas celebrations.

The former governor stressed the importance of prioritizing safety by event organizers and adhering to global best practices for large gatherings. He also called for heightened precautions to prevent similar tragedies in the future, while offering prayers for the injured and the grieving families.

He stated: “It is with a heavy heart that I received the devastating news of the tragic loss of over 30 children in a stampede during a Christmas event in Ibadan. This heartbreaking incident, which has also left many children injured, stands as one of the most devastating incidents involving children in our nation’s history.

‘’As a parent and leader, I am deeply shaken by this unprecedented tragedy. The loss of even one child is unbearable; the loss of over thirty young souls is unspeakable. My heart goes out to all the families who lost their beloved children in this terrible incident. To those whose children are injured, I pray for their swift and complete recovery.

‘’I also commiserate with the government of Oyo State and the people of Ibadan on this painful loss.

‘’This incident is devastating, coming as it does during the festive season, a time meant for joy and celebration. The loss of so many young lives has cast a pall of sadness over the Christmas celebrations.

“This incident, perhaps unprecedented in its scale, underscores the critical need for event organizers to prioritize safety and adhere to global standards in planning gatherings, especially those involving large crowds.

‘’It is imperative that event organizers take responsibility for ensuring the safety and well-being of participants, especially children. I urge the authorities to thoroughly investigate the incident and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.

‘’I urge state governments to consider banning non-academic events in public schools unless strict safety measures are guaranteed and implemented.

‘’May the souls of the departed rest in peace, and may God grant us the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.’’

The Nigeria Customs Service Board (NCSB), during its 61st regular meeting held on December 18, 2024, chaired by the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, announced the promotion of 4,291 senior officers.

The Board confirmed the appointment of one Deputy Comptroller General (DCG) and eight Assistant Comptroller Generals (ACGs).

The newly confirmed members of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Management Team include DCG S. Chiroma (North-East), and ACGs Z.M. Gaji (North-East), O.A. Adebakin (South-West), G.M. Omale (North-Central), M.S. Yusuf (North-Central), D.A. Nnadi (South-East), H.K. Ejibunu (North-Central), and D. Hassan (North-East).

These appointments aim to fill vacancies created by the retirement of senior officers from various geopolitical zones.

The move reflects the Service’s commitment to national inclusivity, institutional balance, and compliance with the Federal Character Policy as stipulated in Section 14(4) of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023.

“Furthermore, the promotion of senior officers highlights the exceptional performance of both General Duty (GD) and Support Staff (SS) personnel during the 2024 promotion exercise.

“A breakdown of the 4,291 officers elevated are as follows: 80 Deputy Comptrollers (DC) advanced to Customs Comptroller (CC), 151 Assistant Comptrollers (AC) to Deputy Comptroller (DC) and 612 Chief Superintendents of Customs (CSC) to Assistant Comptroller (AC).

“Others are 641 Superintendents of Customs (SC) to Chief Superintendent of Customs (CSC), 392 Deputy Superintendents of Customs (DSC) to Superintendent of Customs (SC), 590 Assistant Superintendents of Customs I (ASC I) to Deputy Superintendent of Customs (DSC), 965 Assistant Superintendents of Customs II (ASC II) to ASC I, and 860 Inspectors of Customs (IC) to ASC II.

Recognising extraordinary contributions, the image maker said: “The Board also approved special promotions for sixteen (16) deserving officers to the next higher rank based on their exceptional performance in various assigned responsibilities.

“In the same vein, the Board equally approved a posthumous promotion in honour of the late Deputy Comptroller of Customs, Etop Andrew Essien, who passed away on June 25, 2024, during a presentation before the National Assembly House Committee on Public Accounts. This gesture acknowledges his invaluable contributions and unwavering dedication, a testament to the organisation’s appreciation of exceptional service and commitment”, Maiwada said.

He said: “As part of its drive for enhanced service delivery and streamlined administrative processes in line with global best practices, the Board approved a strategic restructuring, transferring the Post Clearance Audit (PCA) Unit directly to the Office of the Comptroller General from the Tariff and Trade Department. This pivotal unit, now elevated in status, will be headed by an Assistant Comptroller General, ensuring stronger oversight, increased efficiency, and alignment with the Service’s commitment to excellence in operational standards.

“To safeguard operational continuity and preserve the wealth of institutional knowledge amid the retirement of numerous senior officers, a 12-month service extension has been granted to selected distinguished senior officers representing the six geopolitical zones of the Federation.

“The extension of service for these officers, ratified by the Board meeting, follows the Presidential approval for the measure meant to address the current high rate of NCS management turnover.

“The officers granted this esteemed extension include Assistant Comptrollers-General B Imam (North-East), IG Umar (North-West), KC Egwu South-East) as well as Comptrollers F. Abdulqadri (North-Central), MT Awe South-West, and OF Ojiefor (South-South).

“The Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, on behalf of the NCSB, congratulates all newly appointed, promoted, and retained officers, urging them to uphold the Service’s core mandates and pursue excellence.

“He extends warm Christmas and New Year wishes to all and expresses deep gratitude to the Honorable Minister of Finance for ensuring the timely conclusion of the 2024 promotion cycle. In celebration of this milestone, the CGC also reaffirms the Service’s commitment to fostering a motivated workforce with assured career progression and a steadfast focus on excellence,” he said

The European Union has announced €1 million in support to address the emergency humanitarian crisis in Nigeria.

The support is in response to the ongoing floods and cholera epidemic.

These additional funds bring the total EU humanitarian funding for Nigeria in 2024 to € 48 million focusing mainly on the Northeast and Northwest, affected by conflict and insecurity and with alarming rates of people in food crisis and children suffering from life-threatening malnutrition.

“This funding will help humanitarian partners on the ground deliver essential aid, including shelter, water, sanitation, hygiene services, and healthcare to those most affected by both crises,” a statement by the European Union Delegation in Abuja stated.

According to the statement, €500,000 is in response to the devastating floods which have impacted Kogi, Delta, and Anambra States in October.

The remaining balance of €500,000 was in response to the cholera outbreaks exacerbated by the floods, especially in regions with inadequate sanitation and poor access to clean water, especially in Borno and Yobe.

The EU is working alongside Nigerian authorities and humanitarian organizations to provide urgent relief and to ensure early recovery for affected communities.

The European Union and its Member States are the world’s leading donor of humanitarian aid. Relief assistance is an expression of European solidarity with people in need all around the world.

It aims to save lives, prevent and alleviate human suffering, and safeguard the integrity and human dignity of populations affected by natural disasters and man-made crises.

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency has forecasted dust haze across the country from Friday to Sunday.

In its weather outlook released on Thursday, NiMet predicted moderate dust haze in the northern region on Friday, with visibility ranging from two to five kilometres.

Localised visibility of less than 1,000 meters is also expected throughout the forecast period. The North-Central states are anticipated to experience slight dust haze, while the South will see moderate dust haze with visibility ranging from 2km to 5km throughout the period.

On Saturday, NiMet expects thick dust haze in the northern region, with two to five kilometres and a local visibility of less than 1,000m. The southern region will experience a slight dust haze throughout the forecast period.

For Sunday, moderate dust haze with visibility ranging from two to five kilometres is forecasted for the North. In the country’s southern parts, a slight dust haze is expected to persist throughout the day.

NiMet advised the public to take necessary precautions as dust particles may be suspended in the air. It urged people with respiratory issues, such as asthma, to be cautious.

A group of Nigerian women and mothers has petitioned King’s College London to release a statement distancing the institution from the alleged oppressive actions of its major donor, Afe Babalola, who deployed the police to arrest rights lawyer Dele Farotimi over unflattering remarks in his book.

Mr Babalola, 95, had Mr Farotimi, 56, arrested in Lagos and transported to Ekiti, his home turf, in a nearly six-hour road trip over allegations that the nonagenarian won cases with raw cash rather than with brilliant arguments in his heydays.

Mothers United and Mobilised (MUM) on December 17 petitioned King’s College London, which received a €10 million donation from Mr Babalola in 2023, to renounce its ties to the oligarch, particularly that his actions do not represent the school’s values and return the donation.

MUM further requested that the UK institution join others to demand Mr Farotimi’s release from the Nigerian jail where he has spent more than two weeks.

“We urge King’s College to issue an unequivocal statement that distances themselves from the suppression of voices that speak out against corruption and lend their voice to the call for Dele Farotimi’s release and access to a fair trial, which events have shown he cannot receive in Chief Afe Babalola’s domain of residence,” said the petition signed by Boluwaji Onabolu, MUM convener.

The group contended that defamation charge was a civil matter that ought to be litigated in court but that there was little to zero possibility of Mr Farotimi getting a free and fair trial in Ekiti state, where Mr Babalola was highly admired and wielded significant influence with October 18 of each year designated Afe Babalola Day.

“Contrary to legal norms in Lagos State, where defamation is a civil matter, Chief Babalola allegedly orchestrated Farotimi’s arrest using police officers from Ekiti State, Chief Afe Babalola’s home state,” stated the petition.

“Despite being granted bail, Farotimi was subjected to stringent and difficult-to-meet conditions and subsequently denied bail, which many see as punitive and aimed at breaking his resolve,” the mothers’ group argued.

Mr Farotimi’s brutal arrest and subsequent incarceration triggered a nationwide uproar, with many people flooding Amazon with large orders for the book, all of which have earned the book a bestseller tag on the e-commerce site.

Some physical bookstores in Lagos and Abuja have also run out of supply of the book, which has become highly sought after by Nigerians curious to learn the allegations that triggered the nonagenarian’s aggressive reaction.

But a federal court order has banned further sales and distribution of the book in order to contain the alleged defamation, if any at all.

The Nigeria Labour Congress has called on the federal government to immediately intervene in the issue of cash scarcity across the country.

NLC president Joe Ajaero said this in a communique he jointly signed with Emmanuel Ugboaja, the union’s general secretary, on Thursday in Abuja.

The communique was issued at the end of the National Executive Council meeting held in Owerri.

Mr Ajaero said the NEC in-session had expressed concern over the persistent cash scarcity in Nigeria, describing it as an unfortunate and exploitative burden on the already struggling populace.

According to him, NEC noted that Nigerians are forced to forfeit five per cent of their funds each time they access cash, an unacceptable situation that exacerbates the economic woes millions face.

“The impact of this on small businesses and other informal economy operatives is huge as the situation poses a serious disproportionate challenge to the poor and struggling workers and masses.

“The NLC demands immediate government intervention to rectify this systemic failure and protect citizens’ financial rights. We expect the central bank governor to take steps to ensure that cash is made available to the citizenry to enable small business transactions and stimulate Economic growth,” he said.

Mr Ajaero also demanded that the tax bill before the National Assembly be halted for broader consultation and meaningful engagement with Nigerian workers.

He said the politicisation of the bill and alienation of key stakeholders was worrisome and robbed it of its capacity as an effective tool to revamp the economy.

“Only through inclusive dialogue can we ensure a just and equitable tax system that benefits all citizens,” he said.

Kogi State Governor, Usman Ododo, has distributed over 100 truckloads of rice to residents of the state as part of efforts to ensure a joyous Christmas and New Year celebration for families.

The gesture, aimed at alleviating the burden of rising costs during the festive period, was disclosed in a statement by the state Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, on Friday, in Lokoja, the state capital.

Fanwo noted that the initiative underscored Ododo’s commitment to the welfare of the people.

“I can confirm that the People’s Governor, Alh. Ahmed Usman Ododo has taken delivery of over 100 truckloads of rice, which are being distributed to the 21 local government areas. This is to ensure that families across the state enjoy their holidays,” he said.

Fanwo added that the governor, in addition to this gesture, ensured the timely payment of salaries to civil servants on December 14, 2024, while also making provisions for residents not directly on the government payroll.

“The governor has once again demonstrated his unbending commitment to the welfare of the people, in line with his oath to defend and promote the interests of Kogi citizens. His actions continue to reflect his determination to prioritize the needs of the masses.

“To ensure equitable distribution, the governor directed the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation to oversee the process and prevent political interference.

“The governor has mandated the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs to ensure that the materials reach those who need them most. Measures have been put in place to prevent the distribution from being hijacked by politicians or other interest groups. This administration is committed to fairness and transparency in every initiative,” Fanwo said.

Reports from various local government areas indicate that the distribution has sparked jubilation among residents, with many praising the governor’s leadership and compassion.

A resident of Ajaka in the Igalamela/Odolu Local Government Area, Andrew Abah, lauded the governor’s efforts, describing him as a leader with an unwavering commitment to his people.

“This governor has shown remarkable capacity and genuine love for his people. He is detribalized and inclusive, ensuring that the welfare of civil servants and ordinary citizens is prioritized. He is making it difficult for anyone to dislike him,” Abah said.

The distribution of rice is part of a broader strategy by Ododo’s administration to cushion the effects of economic hardship on Kogi residents, particularly during the festive season.

The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has expressed sympathy to the families of children who died at a funfair in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, on Wednesday.

PUNCH Online reports that the Oyo State Police Command has confirmed at least 35 persons dead in a stampede that occurred at the Islamic High School, Basorun, Ibadan, venue of the family event organised by Wings Foundation owned by a former Queen, Naomi Silekunola.

In a statement on Thursday, the state Police Public Relations Officer, Adewale Osifeso, said the ex-queen and seven others had been arrested for their various involvements in the funfair.

However, in a statement issued on Thursday, the monarch’s spokesman, Moses Olafare, said Oba Ogunwusi expressed sympathy with the Government of Oyo State and the families of children whose lives were lost in the tragedy.

The monarch also showed solidarity with the ex-queen, saying she genuinely cared for children and organised similar events in Osun State when she was queen.

Ogunwusi also pledged to support all efforts to bring solace and healing to those affected by the deaths.

“We share in the grief and pains that have engulfed the affected families. We pray that Olodumare grants them the fortitude to bear this trying time.

“While at the Ile Oodua here as a queen, Miss Naomi Silekuola Ogunseyi demonstrated love and care to the children of Ile-Ife through similar events which she executed passionately to give succour to children of indigent parents every December periods like this.

“The House of Oduduwa pledges to support all efforts aimed at bringing solace and healing to those affected by this devastating loss. The House of Oduduwa calls for immediate actions to prevent such unfortunate incidents in the future, emphasizing the need for rigorous adherence to safety standards and child welfare policies in educational institutions,” the statement read.

The monarch also condemned what he called the sensationalisation of the tragic incident and called for solemn reflection and collective responsibility of all citizens.

“While the situation calls for solemn reflection and collective responsibility, we would want to express dismay at the unprofessional conduct of some bloggers who have chosen to sensationalize the tragic incident rather than uphold journalistic integrity.

The House of Oduduwa encourages all stakeholders, from government officials to the media and citizens, to unite in compassion and constructive dialogue. Let us honour the memories of the departed by fostering a culture of care, respect, and accountability in our communities,” the statement added.

The Chairman of the Oyo State Advisory Council, Chief Bolaji Ayorinde, has expressed profound sorrow over the tragic loss of lives in a stampede during a children’s carnival at Islamic High School, Bashorun, Ibadan.

In a statement issued on behalf of the State Advisory Council, Ayorinde extended heartfelt condolences to Governor Seyi Makinde, the bereaved families, and friends of the victims.

He acknowledged the devastating impact of the incident on the affected families and communities.

The council also commended the Oyo State Government for its swift and proactive response to the tragedy, emphasising the need for continued support for the grieving families.

“The government swiftly deployed security agents to restore order at the venue, provided medical and ambulance services to attend to the injured, and took steps to prevent further loss of lives.”

“The Council thanked the governor’s commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of the people of Oyo State. The government’s prompt response to the incident has been praised for preventing further casualties and reducing the impact of the tragedy.

“The Council wished a quick recovery to those who sustained injuries in the incident and prayed for the souls of the departed to rest in eternal peace. The incident has been described as a sad day for Oyo State, and the Council shared the grief of the bereaved families.

“As investigations into the incident continue, the Council urged all parties involved to cooperate with the authorities to ensure that justice is served. The Council also called for calm and restraint, as the people of Oyo State come to terms with this tragic incident.

The Council reaffirmed its commitment to standing by the government and people of Oyo State during this challenging period.

It offered prayers for peace, comfort, and strength for the bereaved families and the entire state.