The police in Lagos on Thursday arraigned a 43-year-old man, Sunday Omede, in a Badagry Chief Magistrates’ Court for allegedly beating his wife.

Omede, whose address was not provided, is facing a two-count charge of assault and unlawful abuse.

He, however, pleaded not guilty to the charge.

The Prosecutor, Inspector Ayodele Adeosun, told the court that the defendant committed the offences on April 30, at 12.03.a.m. at No 1, Alhaji Bello St., Ajayi Kope, Badagry.

Mr Adeosun said that the defendant physically assaulted the complainant, Mrs Janet Omede and inflicted injuries on her body.

He said, “The defendant unlawfully and physically abused his wife and caused her grievous harm.’’

Mr Adeosun said that the offences contravened Sections 170 and 245 of the Criminal Law of Lagos, 2015.

The Chief Magistrate, Patrick Adekomaiya, granted the defendant bail in the sum of N200,000 with two sureties in like sum.

Mr Adekomaiya said one of the sureties must be gainfully employed with evidence of tax payment to the Lagos State Government.

He adjourned the case until June 3, for mention.

Mr Hustapha said, ‘‘One of the issues we have identified is that some institutions fail to notiThe Nigerian Education Loan Fund has urged student leaders across various tertiary institutions to take full ownership of the new interest-free education loan scheme.

This call was made by the Executive Director of Operations at NELFUND, Iyal Mustapha, during a Stakeholders’ Engagement Session and Technical Workshop on NELFUND System Automation and Loan Application Processes in Abuja.

The fourth day of the stakeholders’ engagement was dedicated to a session with Student Union Presidents of tertiary institutions.

Mr Mustapha cautioned institutions against delays in verifying students’ applications.

He explained that once applications were verified, they were forwarded to the respective institutions for confirmation, a step that was sometimes delayed disbursement due to slow institutional responses.

He stated, “We need your schools to respond promptly. If they don’t confirm your status, we cannot release the funds. You must play a role in ensuring your institutions fulfil their responsibilities. This is your opportunity. We are the youth, and we are here to support you. This loan is about removing financial barriers so you can focus on your education. There is no interest, no guarantor, and no harassment, only a commitment to learning.’’

Mr Mustapha explained that the NELFUND scheme was developed to address dropout rates linked to financial hardship.

According to him, it provides Nigerian students with access to loans that cover institutional charges and include a monthly upkeep allowance.

He emphasised that any student enrolled in a recognised tertiary institution in Nigeria was eligible, regardless of background or geographical location.

He added, “There is no reason for anyone to drop out of school.’’

Addressing concerns about loan repayment, Mr Mustapha assured students that repayment would only commence two years after completing the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), and only if the graduate was employed.

He said, “In the event of death or a medically verified permanent disability, the loan would be written off. No one is pursuing you. This is your loan, your government, and your repayment to support the next generation.”

He also advised students who had received upkeep allowances without corresponding institutional fee payments to approach their institutions, noting that upkeep funds cannot be disbursed unless institutional charges were settled.

“One of the issues we have identified is that some institutions are failing to notify students when payments have been made. Anyone who has received upkeep should understand that their institutional charges have already been paid to their institution,” he stated.

The President of the National Association of Nigerian Students, Olushola Oladoja, warned institutions and individuals allegedly undermining the federal government’s student loan scheme.

Speaking on the allegations of sabotage by some institutions, Mr Oladoja noted that the association inaugurated a five-member investigative committee to examine growing concerns about loan disbursement and accountability.

According to him, NANS took swift action following intelligence from the National Orientation Agency which reported irregularities in how some institutions handled student loan payments.

He stated, “We received information indicating that there are issues within NELFUND, including cases where the fund claims to have paid institutions, but the schools failed to notify the students. This cannot be allowed to persist. Our committee will engage directly with NELFUND, visit the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to verify findings, and get to the root of the matter.”

Also speaking, a final-year student of Bayero University, Kano, Umar Lawal, commended President Bola Tinubu’s administration for delivering on its promise of a student loan scheme aimed at transforming tertiary education in Nigeria.

Expressing appreciation for the initiative, Mr Lawal also raised concerns about the lack of transparency and accountability in some tertiary institutions, saying it must be addressed.

The Defence Headquarters has said troops of the Nigerian military eliminated some key wanted terrorists, including one Nkwachi Eze, otherwise known as ‘Onowu’ in April.

The Director, Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Markus Kangye, made this known while briefing journalists on the activities of the Armed Forces of Nigeria on Thursday in Abuja.

Mr Kangye said the late Eze was responsible for coordinating a series of attacks and kidnapping across the South-East and had been on the wanted list of the military.

He added that 430 perpetrators of oil theft, terrorists and other criminal elements were also apprehended during the month.

According to him, troops rescued 173 kidnap victims, while over 204 terrorists and members of their families surrendered.

He said, “We have also taken into custody, one Buhari Umar, a wanted suspected gunrunner who also doubles as leader of a kidnapping syndicate terrorising Gombe, Bauchi, Plateau and Kaduna states. Furthermore, troops of Operation Whirl Stroke successfully arrested a five-man kidnapping syndicate in the Lafia Local Government Area of Nasarawa State. They include Hassan Mohammed, Saleh Sani, Idi Yusuf, Adamu Danmai and Hassan Bello. Additionally, troops recovered a large quantity of various arms, such as automatic weapons, RPG tubes, machine guns, locally fabricated guns and Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs). Also, some cache of live cartridges and assorted ammunition were recovered.”

In the North-East, Mr Kangye said troops of Operation Hadin Κai, had between May 1 and May 4, apprehended 29 terrorists’ logistics suppliers in well-coordinated operations in Borno and Yobe states.

He said the suspects confessed during investigation to have received money from terrorists to purchase items such as inverter batteries, battery acid, PMS, beverages and foodstuff for them.

According to him, troops recovered vehicles, motorcycles and N739,000 from the suspects.

He added that in the North-West, troops of Operation Fasan Yamma neutralised some terrorists and rescued nine kidnap victims during fighting patrols in Sokoto, Katsina and Zamfara states.

He explained that troops on April 30, intercepted a truck driver conveying three motorcycles and N3.3 million concealed between bags of fruits and onions in the Anka Local Government Area of Zamfara.

In the North-Central, he said, troops of Operation Safe Haven neutralised an extremist and arrested 17 suspected violent extremists in parts of Plateau and Kaduna states.

He said the Armed Forces of Nigeria was focused and committed to ensuring national security and welfare of its personnel as troops continued efforts to safeguard the nation’s territorial integrity and protect citizens from all threats.

He noted, ‘‘As part of our mandate, we have launched several key operations aimed at combating insurgency, terrorism and other forms of criminal activities that threaten our communities. These operations are strategically designed and executed to ensure the safety of our people and restoration of peace in affected regions. Accordingly, I am pleased to report significant progress in our operations, which include neutralisation of key insurgent leaders, destruction of several terrorists’ camps, as well as rescue of kidnap victims and rehabilitation of civilians affected by conflict.’’

The police on Thursday arraigned a suspected fake prophetess, Iyabo Komolafe, 43, before a Grade A Customary Court sitting at Mapo, Ibadan, Oyo State, over alleged fraudulent activities.

The prosecutor, Inspector Ayodele Ayeni, had told the court that the defendant committed the offence on December 12, February 15, 2024, and April 2025 respectively at Mokola Roundabout area of Ibadan.

Mr Ayeni stated that Komolafe and others now at large, had at different times, presented themselves as prophetess to one Waliyat Shakiru and Olawuni Akinola for the purpose of obtaining money while making false spiritual prophecies.

He further claimed that the defendant obtained cash of N300,000, a small phone worth N13,000, a bag containing cash of N1,500, three electrical extension boxes valued at N15,000, an iPhone 12 worth N365,000 and a phone charger, valued at N7,000.

According to the prosecutor, the offences contravened the provisions of Sections 516, 419 and 390 (9) of the Criminal Code Cap 38 vol. ii law of Oyo State, 2000.

The defendant pleaded not guilty to the six-count charge of conspiracy, false pretence and stealing preferred against her.

The Court’s President, S.M. Akintayo, after listening to the charge, admitted the defendant to bail in the sum of N400,000 with two sureties in like sum.

She said the sureties must be relatives of the defendant and must provide a valid identity card.

Mr Akintayo added that each of the sureties must present evidence of tax payment to the Oyo State Government.

She adjourned the suit until June 3, for trial.

A40-year-old businesswoman, Victoria Oguntunde, was on Thursday arraigned before a Mapo Grade A Customary Court in Ibadan, Oyo State, for allegedly defrauding First Bank of Nigeria of two million naira.

Oguntunde pleaded not guilty to the three-count charge of attempted felony, false pretence and stealing levelled against her.

The court’s President, S.M. Akintayo, admitted the defendant to bail in the sum of N100,000, with two reliable sureties in like sum, who must have a valid identity card each.

Ms Akintayo also said that the sureties must show evidence of three years tax payment to Oyo State Government.

She, thereafter, adjourned the case until June 3 for trial.

The Prosecutor, Inspector Ayodele Ayeni, had told the court that the defendant committed the offence on August 8, 2024, at about 1.00 p.m. at Mokola branch of First Bank, Ibadan.

Mr Ayeni further said that Oguntunde had, through the bank’s Relationship Officer, Oluwabunmi Ologundudu, applied for a two-million-naira loan, with the agreement that she would pay the necessary interest.

He said that the defendant refused to fulfil any of the obligations expected of her after obtaining the two-million-naira loan since 2024.

The offences, according to him, contravened the provisions of Sections 509, 419 and 390(9) of the Criminal Code. Cap. 38, Vol. II, Laws of Oyo State, 2000.

The United States will cut $50 million in annual medical funding to Zambia over its weak response to the alleged theft and sale of donated drugs meant to be provided for free, its ambassador said on Thursday.

The US embassy had in 2024 demanded Lusaka act on “the systemic theft of life-saving medicines and other products that were intended for free for the Zambian public”, ambassador Michael Gonzales told reporters.

These included live-saving medicines to treat malaria, HIV, and tuberculosis.

“Instead of investigating supply sources and pursuing the masterminds behind the theft of medicines, law enforcement operations have focused on low-level actors and have led to the arrest of only a few mid-level officials,” he said.

There was no immediate comment from the health ministry.

The “United States can no longer justify to the American taxpayer continuing to provide such massive levels of assistance when the Zambian government will not take the necessary measures to protect this American investment,” the ambassador said.

The debt-ridden southern African nation of 21 million people is heavily reliant on foreign aid. About one-third of its public health spending comes from the United States, according to Washington.

The fraud was discovered in late 2021 and an inspection at more than 2,000 pharmacies last year had found that most were selling stolen goods, including products the United States provided for free, Gonzales said.

Some pharmacies were selling items purchased by the Zambian government, the Geneva-based Global Fund and other donors.

More than 64 percent of the population of copper-rich Zambia lives in poverty, a legacy of years of runaway corruption at the hands of a few politically connected people.

President Hakainde Hichilema was elected in 2021 on a promise to root out graft and woo back investors.

There were high-profile arrests at the beginning of his tenure and seizures of hotels and helicopters belonging to a former minister. However the fight against corruption has since slowed.

Gonzales said the cuts he announced were separate from a broader review of foreign aid spending by the administration of President Donald Trump.

Asked if the action, to apply from January 2026, could be undone if the government took more action, the ambassador said: “At this point, after three years of raising it and one year of intensive engagement and requests, we have made this decision.”

The CP noted that the inauguration carried out by Mr Aladeseyi did not receive legal recognition from either the local or state government.

Tosin Ajuwon • May 8, 2025
Ondo state logo
Ondo state logo [Photo: Ondo State Government]
The Akure Division of the Magistrates Court in Ondo State on Thursday remanded a self-proclaimed monarch, Adekolajo Aladeseyi, parading himself as Olujare of Ijare.

This came after Mr Aladeseyi, accused of illegally crowning himself as the Olujare of Ijare in the Ifedore Local Council Area of the state, was arrested by the police and subsequently charged to court.

The state Commissioner of Police, Wilfred Afolabi, disclosed that the self-confessed monarch was apprehended on the orders of the state government.

Mr Afolabi noted that the inauguration carried out by Mr Aladeseyi did not receive legal recognition from either the local or state government.

He said, “This action was necessary to maintain peace and prevent a potential breakdown of law and order in the community.’’

Alongside two chiefs, the self-styled monarch was accused of carrying out the unauthorised installation despite opposition from key figures in the town responsible for the selection of the town’s monarch.

But on Thursday, Mr Aladeseyi, 67, was dragged before the magistrates’ court by the Ondo State Police Command for allegedly instigating a crisis in the ancient town.

He was arraigned before the court alongside Fasore Lawrence, 63, and Adegbenro Akanle, 43, with a three-count charge.

The trio also were accused of conduct likely to cause breach of peace and deliberately flouting the chieftaincy law of the state.

One of the charges read, “That you, Adekolajo Aladeseyi, Fasore Lawrence and Adegbenro Akanle and others at large on April 15, 2025 at about 1:00 am at Ijare town within the Jurisdiction of the Honourable Court did conspire together to commit misdemeanour to wit conduct likely to cause breach of public peace and thereby committed an offense contrary to and punishable under Section 517 (A) of the Criminal Code Cap 37 Vol. 1 Laws of Ondo State, Nigeria, 2006.”

The suspects, however, pleaded not guilty to the charge preferred against them.

Babatunde Ajiboye, The Police Prosecutor, Babatubde Ajiboye, who informed the court that he had seven witnesses, noted that he had evidence to back his claim.

But the lead counsel to the suspects, Adelanke Akinrata, prayed the court to grant bail to them in liberal terms.

Mr Akinrata who said the application was premised on Section 36 sub 5 of the 1999 constitution, as amended, noted that the defendants were presumed to be innocent until proven guilty according to Section 146 sub 1 of Administration of Criminal Justice Law (ACJL).

He noted that the essence of bail was to ensure their presence, and he guaranteed that the accused will be available to stand trial before the court.

Assuring the court of the availability of the suspects during trial, he added that the defendants would not tamper with the investigation.

Ruling, the Chief Magistrate Jaiyeola Solomon Ogungade ordered the remand of the suspects in custody and consequently adjourned the ruling on the bail application to May 12.

Recall that the Olujare stool, which is a prestigious first-class traditional title, became vacant four years ago following the demise of Oba Adebamigbe Oluwagbemigun, Kokotiri II.

Since then, the community has awaited the selection of a new ruler, but the process has been marred by disputes.

Tunde Onakoya, a chess master, has been gifted a brand-new Nord A9 SUV by Nord Motion, a Nigerian automaker, after winning a friendly chess match against the company’s CEO, Oluwatobi Ajayi.

Onakoya expressed his gratitude on social media, praising Ajayi as the “Elon of Africa” for his innovative approach.

The win also led to an extension of Onakoya’s ambassadorial contract with the brand for another year.

Onakoya described the Nord A9 SUV as “the most beautiful car” he’s ever owned, appreciating not just the gift but also the love and thought behind it.

He wrote on X: “Just got home to the most heartwarming surprise from my #nordmotion family—the stunning new Nord A9 SUV. Hands down, the most beautiful car I’ve ever owned, but even more beautiful is the love behind this incredible gift. Grateful beyond words.

“Of course, the only way to get the new car was by not losing this match.”

He added, “I call #OluwatobiAjayiJ the ‘Elon’ of Africa because while most people only know him for being one of the pioneers made in Nigeria, he’s also a great thinker and innovator.

“Proud to extend our partnership as Brand Ambassador for another year. Up Naija. A beauty to behold + made in Nigeria. Thank you #nordmotion for this incredible gift.”

China has voiced strong opposition to the recent joint sea and air patrol conducted by the Philippines, the United States, and Australia in the South China Sea, criticising the move as a provocation and a threat to regional peace.
Speaking at a press conference on Thursday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said the situation in the South China Sea remained generally stable, with no issues related to the freedom of navigation and overflight as guaranteed under international law.

‘‘Activities conducted by countries in the South China Sea should adhere to international law and the spirit of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC),” Mr Lin said, warning that such actions must not target third countries or undermine regional stability.

He accused the Philippines of violating international law and the DOC, alleging that it had repeatedly provoked incidents at sea and sought to involve external forces in regional matters.

“The Philippines, violating international law and the DOC, has frequently made infringements and provocations, stirring up troubles at sea,” Mr Lin stated.

“It has colluded with external forces to disrupt peace in the South China Sea, showing off military power and acting as a pawn—an approach that will ultimately backfire.”

Mr Lin also criticised the involvement of countries outside the region, particularly the United States, accusing them of forming “small circles” and escalating tensions.

He stated, “Certain extraterritorial countries, including the United States, are engaging in confrontation under the guise of cooperation. They are displaying military strength in the name of freedom and creating disorder under the pretext of maintaining order.’’

Mr Lin added that China remained firm in safeguarding its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and continued to work with regional nations to preserve peace and stability.

“We advise relevant countries to cease forming cliques and stirring up trouble in the South China Sea and to stop undermining regional peace and stability,” he said.

Supporters of controversial activist Martins Otse, aka VeryDarkMan, have expressed delight over his release after spending six days in the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.

Earlier, in a viral video posted by his supporters on social media, VDM was seen inside a car alongside his lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, revealing that he was arrested on allegations of money laundering.

However, VDM questioned the accusation’s credibility, stating that someone in his financial position could hardly be involved in such an offence.

He said, “How can EFCC accuse someone who isn’t wealthy of money laundering? I’ve done a lot of charity work, and they’re wondering where I get the money from, not knowing I’m running it on debt.

“Anyway, I’m out here with my lawyer—and you know what I stand for. I can never be locked up as long as my lawyer is by my side.”

The video was thereafter followed by a post by Mr Adeyanju on his social media page confirming that VDM was released on bail.

He wrote, “VDM released to us on bail.”

VDM was arrested by operatives of the EFCC on Friday in Abuja, with the anti-graft agency disclosing that it secured a court order to remand him pending the conclusion of an investigation into alleged cybercrime offences.

His arrest immediately sparked outrage on social media, with the hashtag #FreeVDM trending across different platforms and protests by VDM’s supporters in Abuja and other parts of the country, calling for his release.

Many celebrities, including Davido and Cubana Chief Priest, said VDM’s arrest was carried out like an “abduction”, which left many Nigerians worried, and therefore demand his release.

However, his release has stirred reactions from different quarters, particularly his fans and netizens, causing a buzz on social media.

Reacting to his freedom, @Viktor_Meritt wrote, “Welcome back… In good health,” a sentiment shared by many who welcomed him home. @JohnGodswill_ celebrated with, “Somebody shout freedom,” expressing the relief of followers who saw his release as a victory.

Another user, @amaechi_josh, posted, “Baba don Show o,” reflecting VDM’s return to social media after days of silence. @aimejocelin453 added, “We are plenty our president please please let’s hear it,” hinting at VDM’s influence and loyal following.

@Baby796170852 asked, “Why do @officialEFCC still have his phone?” spotlighting the ongoing concern about withheld personal property. @MichaelDan206 expressed confusion, saying, “No condition for his bail…Will he be there with them?” questioning the legality of the arrest.

Supporter @Bigdadi praised his legal team, “You are doing a good job for him, continue,” urging those handling his account to stay active. @festus12003 summed up the joy with, “The happiness is forever oooo,” capturing the celebratory mood among fans.

VDM, whose social media activism commenced in 2022, garnered popularity through interactions with Nigerian celebrities, increasing his online following.

In May 2024, he was arraigned at the Federal High Court, Abuja Division, on five counts of cyberstalking, stemming from alleged online harassment of the police and Nollywood actresses Iyabo Ojo and Tonto Dikeh.

He pleaded not guilty, was remanded in police custody until his hearing on May 29, 2024, and was released after two weeks in detention.

In September 2024, VDM was sued for N1 billion by controversial crossdresser Idris Okuneye, aka Bobrisky, for defamation. The suit followed the circulation of a voice recording by VDM alleging that Bobrisky bribed EFCC officials to quash money laundering charges. Bobrisky denied the claim, alleging the recording was AI-generated.

Also, in September that year, Falana & Falana Chambers issued a 24-hour ultimatum to VDM via a letter, demanding an immediate retraction and apology for allegedly defamatory statements against Femi Falana on Instagram.

In November 2024, he faced fresh charges of impersonation before an Abuja Chief Magistrate Court as prosecutors accused him of unlawfully dressing as a police officer and presenting himself as one.

He again pleaded not guilty and was granted bail of N2 million.

In April this year, a court order was issued for his arrest over alleged defamatory remarks against popular gospel singer Mercy Chinwo, as the court directed him to delete the content and publicly apologise.

The police command has confirmed the arrest of a self-acclaimed traditional ruler, Adekolajo Aladeseyi, for installing himself as the Olujare of Ijare in Ifedore LGA.

Four other individuals who allegedly participated in the installation process were also arrested.

Police commissioner Olutokunbo Afolabi, while confirming the arrest, said that Mr Aladeseyi was apprehended on the order of the state government.

The police chief explained that the installation ceremony by Mr Aladeseyi did not follow the legal process, nor receive the local government or state government approval.

“This action was necessary to maintain peace and prevent a potential breakdown of law and order in the community.

“The suspects’ conduct was unlawful, and their actions could have resulted in violence,” he stated.

The police said the suspects would be prosecuted after the investigations were concluded.

Some kingmakers and royal families in Ijare had kicked against the alleged installation of Mr Aladeseyi as the community’s ruler, alleging that they were not part of the selection process as required by the law.

The stool of the Olujare, a first class traditional ruler, became vacant following the death of Oba Adebamigbe Oluwagbemigun, Kokotiri II, four years ago.

A Federal High Court in Abuja has dismissed the suit by Multichoice against the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) for restraining it from effecting price increase.

In a judgment on Thursday, Justice James Omotosho held that the suit constituted an abuse of the process of the court having been filed after a similar suit was filed on the issue by one Festus Onifade, with Multichoice and FCCPC as parties in the suit.

Justice Omotosho noted that an earlier suit filed by Onifade before the same Federal High Court in Abuja, and in which Multichoice is a party, was still pending before Multichoice decided to file this separate suit.

The judge said Multichoice could ventilate the issues in the suit filed by Onifade by simply filing a counter claim rather than filing a separate suit.

The judge proceeded to decline jurisdiction and dismissed the suit.

However, Justice Omotosho went ahead to determine the case on the merit and held that since Nigeria runs a free market economy, the FCCPC lacked the power to interfere in the decisions of private companies to fix their prices.

The judge held that under Section 88 of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act, it is only the president of the FRN that can regulate prices in a regulated industry and for essential goods, not the kind of services being rendered by the Multichoice where consumers have choices.

Justice James Omotosho held that the FCCPC has no business querying how companies fix their prices in a free market economy.

The Imo State Police Command has demoted a sergeant, Anayo Ekezie for assaulting a road traveller using a smoke gunner along the Owerri-Aba Expressway.

The Command also announced the reprimand of two Police Inspectors, Ofem Obongha and Obinna Okereke, for failing to exercise supervisory control during the incident which occurred along the Owerri-Aba highway.

Police spokesperson for Imo State Command, DSP Henry Okoye made the disclosure on Wednesday night.

According to him, the three men all attached to the Safer Highway unit were found guilty of breach of the Police Force code of conduct and human rights standards.

He said Anayo Ekezie was found guilty and was demoted from a Sergeant to a Corporal as punishment for his action, while the other two Inspectors were reprimanded for failing to exercise appropriate supervision.

Okoye said, “The Imo State Police Command, in response to a viral video showing police officers assaulting a man along the Owerri–Aba Road, has identified the officers involved and initiated disciplinary action. The officers are Inspector Ofem Obongha, Inspector Obinna Okereke, and Sergeant Anayo Ekezie, all from the Safer Highway Unit.

“Following a review of the video, the Command conducted an orderly room trial in line with Nigeria Police Force disciplinary procedures. Sergeant Anayo Ekezie was found guilty of using his issued smoke gunner in the assault and has been demoted to the rank of Corporal.

“Inspectors Obongha and Okereke were severely reprimanded for failing to exercise proper supervisory control, which allowed the unprofessional conduct to occur, ” Okoye said.

On his part, the Commissioner of Police for Imo State, Aboki Danjuma condemned the action of the men which he said ran foul of the Force’s code of conduct and human rights standards.

Danjuma maintained that there was zero tolerance for police misconduct and promised appropriate action on those found guilty.

Meanwhile, the Imo State Police Command has called on the public to report any incidents of Police misconduct through the Complaints Response Unit (CRU), X-Squad unit, or via 08033424051 or 0814 802 4755 saying they are committed to transparency, professionalism, and protecting citizens’ rights.

Media professionals have been advised to refrain from providing publicity opportunities to terrorists and bandits.This appeal was made by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, at the seventh edition of the 2025 Ministerial Press Briefing Series on Wednesday, May 7, which was held at the National Press Centre, Abuja.

The minister charged journalists and editors to embrace responsible and patriotic reportage, while shunning sensationalism.

The minister noted that criminal groups use the media to spread fear, disinformation and recruit followers.

Mr Idris in his address stated that the Federal Government continued to make active investment in the military sector through the purchase of contemporary equipment, improved intelligence and strategic partnerships.

The minister said, “The media, as gatekeepers and partners in nation-building, have a crucial role to play in supporting our military’s morale by highlighting their successes and sacrifices. Our armed forces are not only respected by global allies but also feared by those who threaten our collective peace. It is equally important to recognise that the fight against insecurity is not limited to kinetic approaches. It is also a battle for the hearts and minds of our people – one that terrorist groups are actively exploiting through propaganda, especially on social media platforms.’’

Mr Idris commended the media’s continuous efforts in keeping the populace informed about government programs and policies.

The police command in Ekiti State has arrested one Helen Kayode, a graduating student of Ekiti State University (EKSU), who allegedly raised a false alarm that she was kidnapped along Iworoko/Ado-Ekiti Road.This was made known by the command spokesman, SP Sunday Abutu, on Wednesday in Ado-Ekiti.

Mr Abutu alleged that Ms Kayode stated that she was kept and held hostage in an uncompleted building surrounded by bushes.

He said the information activated serious panic in the state, especially within Iworoko-Ekiti and Ado-Ekiti metropolis.

According to Mr Abutu, the information went viral on social media, causing some reactions that undermined the security and peaceful atmosphere currently being enjoyed in the state.

He said investigations revealed that she was not kidnapped but raised false information to cover her stay with her boyfriend through the night of that same day before travelling to Lagos to meet her parents.

He alleged that the suspect confessed during investigation that she sent out the false information to enable her to stay back in Ado-Ekiti to celebrate her birthday with her boyfriend, who promised her a ‘surprise package.’

Mr Abutu said the student stated that her parents told her to return to Lagos against her wish due to the birthday party.

The Commissioner of Police, Joseph Eribo, condemned the act.

He warned against giving false information, especially those that could cause unnecessary apprehension in society.

Mr Eribo said that those found culpable in the act would be made to face the wrath of the law.

He stated that the suspect would be charged to court after investigations.

He reiterated the command’s commitment to the security of lives and property of all residents and the sustenance of a peaceful atmosphere.

Recall that Ms Kayode, on May 1, sent a disturbing message to her sister that she boarded a wrong bus and was kidnapped.

The message went viral on social media

A former Accountant-General of the Federation, Ahmed Idris, on Wednesday told an Abuja High Court that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission failed to tender all the statements he made in their office.

Mr Idris in his evidence in the trial-within-trial ordered by the court following the objection raised by his counsel, Chris Uche, SAN, to the admissibility of his statements as exhibits, mentioned the three statements he made on the consultancy in question.

The trial-within-trial was on grounds that the former AGF’s statements the prosecution sought to tender on November 23, 2022, were made on the ground of deception and inducement.

The EFCC charged the former AGF alongside Geoffrey Olusegun Akindele, Mohammed Kudu Usman and Gezawa Commodity Market and Exchange Limited with 14 counts, bordering on theft, fraudulent diversion of public funds to the tune of N109.5 billion.

They are being prosecuted by EFCC, before Justice Yusuf Halilu, in the case marked, FCT/HC/CR/199/2022. The defendants, however, pleaded not guilty to the charge.

Mr Idris testified for himself in the trial-within-trial.

“Apart from the 13 statements brought to court by EFCC, I made a total of 16 statements on different days in the course of investigation,” he told the court.

Led in evidence by Uche, Idris informed the court that he was taken to the procurement unit of the EFCC three times and that he made statements on those times about the consultancy in question and the entire processes involved in the matter.

Three files were brought, marked certified true copies, to the head of the procurement unit.

” I mentioned that the Minister (of Finance) approved the consultancy and that the Federation Account Allocation Committee and the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation Commission and the oil producing state governors were all involved. I am surprised that all the three statements were not brought to court, including the rules with the certified true copies” he said.

Idris told the court that his lawyer was not present when he made the statements to EFCC on June 10, 2022, June 27, 2022, July 5, 2022, respectively.

He denied writing any of the cautionary words in the respective statements, adding that the statements were dictated to him by EFCC investigators

“It is not correct that I made the statement in the presence of my lawyer, Gbenga Adeyemi. The statement is a dictation.

“None of my written statements were video recorded by my interrogators,” he said.

After his evidence Halilu adjourned the matter until July 17 for cross examination of the former AGF by the prosecution in the trial-within-trial.

An Ekiti State High Court in Ado-Ekiti on Wednesday granted an order stopping the conduct of the Local Government and state congresses of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state.

Justice E.B. Omotoso gave the order while ruling on a motion on exparte number HAD/424M/2025 filed by Afolabi Adedeji.

The suit was filed against the PDP, the party’s Acting National Chairman, Umar Damagun; National Organising Secretary, Umar Bature; Caretaker Chairman of the party in Ekiti state, Dare Adeleke and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The court ordered that all parties to the suit should maintain status quo, pending the hearing and determination of the motion on notice.

The court also ordered that the PDP Acting National Chairman, National Organising Secretary and Ekiti State Caretaker Chairman should be served the court order through their WhatsApp numbers.

The court ruled, “Leave is hereby granted to the claimant/applicant to serve the 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th defendants the Originating Process with its accompanying processes by substituted means, by pasting the aforesaid originating process on the wall of the 1st defendant’s office situate at Ajilosun Street, Ado Ekiti, Ekiti State. In addition, the claimant/applicant is granted leave to serve the 2nd, 3rd and 4th defendants vide their WhatsApp phone numbers 08047677070, 08035961850 and 08033242822 respectively. All parties in this case are hereby ordered to maintain status quo pending the hearing and determination of the Motion on Notice which is hereby fixed for hearing on Wednesday, the 14th day of May 2025.’’.

The plaintiff, Afolabi Adedeji, had sought an order of interim injunction, retraining the defendants, privies, agents and successor-in-title/office, from accepting any list of persons who did not obtain election forms, participate in the elections and elected by the simple majority votes of the ward congress of the PDP in Ekiti State to act for the party, as delegates at any election of the party apart from those elected on March 15, 2025.

The plaintiff also sought an order of the court to mark the originating summons as concurrent.

He equally sought to issue and serve, the originating summons, and other accompanying originating processes, and all other processes in the case of the 1st , 2nd, 3rd and 5th defendants, whose address is outside the jurisdiction of the court and in the Federal Capital Territory.

Mr Oseni emphasised the need for public funding
The House of Representatives has called on the Federal Government to provide free cancer screening services nationwide.

The resolution followed the adoption of a motion moved by a lawmaker, Aderemi Oseni during Wednesday’s plenary in Abuja.

Presenting the motion under urgent national importance, Mr Oseni described cancer as a growing public health crisis in Nigeria, stressing that the rising cost of treatment was putting care out of reach for many patients.

He said, “The scourge of cancer is fast spreading among Nigerians.’’

Mr Oseni noted that treatment costs could range from tens of millions of naira to hundreds of thousands of dollars annually, depending on the type and stage of cancer, as well as the treatment method.

He expressed concern over the limited availability of radiotherapy machines and the cost, complex supply chain for cancer medications, which had made treatment unaffordable for many Nigerians.

He added, “There’s a dangerous perception that cancer is a disease of the rich or a death sentence. That is no longer the case, it affects both the rich and the poor.’’

Mr Oseni emphasised the need for public funding, calling it the most sustainable and equitable way to finance cancer care and ease the financial burden on patients.

The lawmakers unanimously urged the Federal Government to establish additional cancer treatment centres equipped with radiotherapy machines across the country.

The House also mandated its Committee on Healthcare Services to collaborate with the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare and other relevant agencies to develop a framework for federal intervention.

Additionally, the House Committee on Legislative Compliance was tasked with ensuring the implementation of the resolution.

In 2020, about 125,000 Nigerians were diagnosed with various types of cancer, with breast, prostate, and cervical cancers being the most common.

An 18-year-old apprentice has allegedly impregnated 10 girls in just five months, including his master’s daughter and a salesgirl in Anambra State.

Reports say he was first sent to learn a trade under a master, but within three months, he got both his boss’s daughter and a salesgirl pregnant.

This, however, led to his dismissal from the apprenticeship.

The state Commissioner for Women and Social Welfare, Ify Obinabo, disclosed this in a live video on social media on Wednesday.

Obinabo said the situation got worse after he returned to his village.

She said, “I want advice from the public because this one is beyond my capacity.

“This boy was sent to learn a trade at the age of 18 and three months of apprenticeship, and he impregnated his master’s daughter and his salesgirl. He was sent packing. Two months after that, he impregnated eight other girls in the village.”

Obinabo also said the boy’s mother came to her office to report the issue.

According to her, the mother said, “‘Anytime I see a girl coming towards our house nowadays, my heart would jump, please, I need help.’”

Obinabo said, “This matter is beyond me, the reason I want the public to help me come up with a solution. Is it spiritual?”

She said she asked the boy how he was able to convince the girls.

“I asked the boy the magic he uses in luring the girls to bed, but he told me he always tells them that he loves them and would like to marry them any time he acquires wealth.

“This problem is beyond me because of the boy’s age and the number of pregnant girls involved; that’s why I need help to solve it.”

Obinabo did not mention the name of the boy, his mother, or their community, but she called on the public to suggest solutions.

The absence of Justice Bayo Taiwo, of the Oyo State High Court, on Wednesday stalled the hearing in a case of murder filed against a former chairman of the Park Management System, Mukaila Lamidi, popularly called Auxiliary.

The matter was adjourned until June 11 for the adoption of addresses in the trial-within-trial case. S. O. Adeoye, the prosecuting counsel and director of public prosecution and defence counsel Olalekan Ojo were in court.

Auxiliary is facing trial on a 17-count charge bordering on armed robbery, murder, attempted murder, possession of firearms including AK-47 assault rifles, two SMG rifles with magazines.

The offence is punishable under Section 1(2)(a) and (b) of the Robbery and Firearms (Special Provisions) Act, CAP RII, Vol. 14, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004.