The police command in Ondo says investigations are ongoing into the assassination of a businessman, Ismaila Awoyinka, in Ore, Odigbo LGA.

The command’s spokeswoman, Funmilayo Odunlami, confirmed the killing on Sunday in Okitipupa.

“Investigation is ongoing to unravel the assassination of the businessman,” Ms Odunlami said.

Residents of Ore were left in shock after the killing of Mr Awoyinka, a building materials dealer, by gunmen.

The murder occurred on Saturday near his home, opposite Caring Heart Mega School in the Idi Mango area of Ore.

A witness revealed that the businessman was ambushed after performing the Taraweeh prayer, usually held after each day of Ramadan fasting.

“He had just left the mosque at 8:35 p.m. when some men in white clothes arrived on a motorcycle.

“As he approached his residence, they shot him at close range,” the witness said.

News of his death spread quickly, drawing a crowd of sympathisers to his home, many of whom were in shock.

Taiwo Adegoroye, the Chairman of Odigbo LGA, expressed his deep concern over the security situation, calling the assassination a tragic loss.

A Federal High Court in Abuja has been told that Odoh Ocheme, an aide to former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor Godwin Emefiele, and others named in the theft of $6,230,000 cash from the CBN are currently residing in the United Kingdom (U.K).

A police prosecutor, Celestine Odo, revealed this in the court when an eight-count of theft pending against them was mentioned on Thursday.

The others who are non-staff members of the apex bank are Adamu Abubakar and Imam Abubakar.

Odo recalled that the court had on February 7, 2024, issued an arrest warrant on the trio and that the International Criminal Police Organisation (INTERPOL) was notified.

“They are in the UK. Until they are pinned down and arrested, we cannot bring them before the court. We are relying on the cooperation of INTERPOL member states to achieve this,” he said.

The Police prosecutor subsequently applied for an adjournment to enable the INTERPOL to explore available options for their arrest.

Justice Inyang Ekwo, who was uncomfortable with the explanation, threatened to strike out the case on the next adjourned date should Odo repeat the excuse.

He adjourned till November 3 for the arraignment of the defendants.

A document filed along with the charge, marked: FHC/ABJ/CR/19/2014, provided insight into how the $6,230,000 was allegedly stolen on February 8, 2023 and shared.

A special presidential investigative team led by Jim Obaze, which probed Emefiele’s tenure, claimed that the money was stolen to pay election observers.

Investigators revealed, in the court document, that the alleged theft was an insider job by mainly CBN officials with the connivance of the two Abubakars.

Ocheme, who was described in the document as a personal assistant to Emefiele allegedly received$3,730,000 out of the $6.23 million from the money. The remaining $2,500,000 was shared by others.

*That Adamu Abubakar (now at large), Imam Abubakar (now at large), Odoh Eric Ocheme (now at large) Bashirudeen Maishanu and others (also now at large), on or about the 23’ day of January, 2023, at the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja, within the jurisdiction of the Federal High Court, forged a letter dated 23 January, 2023 purportedly written by Muhammad Buhari to the Mr Boss Mustapha, with the intent that the Central Bank of Nigeria, Abuja Branch may in the belief that the documents are genuine be induced to pay you $6,230,000.00 and thereby committed an offence punishable under Section 1(2)[c] of the Miscellaneous Offences Act, Cap. M17 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2010; and

*That Adamu Abubakar (now at large), Imam Abubakar (now at large), Odoh Eric Ocheme (now at large), Bashirudeen Maishanu and others also now at large, on or about the 23rd day of January 2023, at the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja, within the jurisdiction of the Federal High Court, forged a letter dated 26th January 2023 purportedly written by Boss Mustapha to Mr Godwin Emefiele as the governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, with the intent that the CBN, Abuja branch believe that the documents are genuine and be induced to pay you $6,230,000.

*That Adamu Abubakar (now at large), Imam Abubakar (now at large), Odoh Eric Ocheme (now at large), Bashirudeen Maishanu and others (also now at large) on or about the 23rd day of January 2023, at the Central Bank of Nigeria, Abuja Branch, within the jurisdiction of the Federal High Court, by false pretence that one man who held out himself as Jibril Abubakar is a staff of the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation and had approval of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to source money from the Central Bank of Nigeria for foreign Election Observers, and with intent to defraud, obtained $6,230,000 from the Central Bank of Nigeria, Abuja branch and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 1(1)[a] and punishable under Section 1(3) & Section 10 of the Advanced Fee Fraud and Other Related Offences Act, Cap. A6 laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2010.’’

France is committed to supporting Nigeria’s roadmap for mining development, French Ambassador to Nigeria Marc Fonbaustier said yesterday.

The envoy also reaffirmed France’s commitment to remain Nigeria’s formidable ally in developing the solid minerals sector.

Fonbaustier gave the commitment during a courtesy call on Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake in Abuja.

A statement by the Minister’s Senior Special Assistant on Media, Segun Tomori, quoted Fonbaustier as expressing France keen interest in investing in the rapidly developing solid minerals sector of Nigeria.

Alake acknowledged and identified France’s frontline position among prospective stakeholders who have shown interest in the solid minerals sector.

The minister noted that France has shown “enthusiasm, commitment, and readiness to implement tangible projects” in the mining sector of Nigeria

He expressed optimism that the long-standing and robust bilateral relationship between Nigeria and France will be further enhanced “through key initiatives in the solid minerals sector backed by actionable goals with clear timelines.”

Alake reiterated that the core agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu policy initiatives has been the diversification of the economy with emphasis on solid minerals development.

He highlighted the imperative of continued engagement with the French team to identify serious French companies interested in the mining sector whilst also fine-tuning areas of collaboration to concretize partnership based on the earlier signed MOU.

Nigeria and France signed an MOU late last year on the heels of President Tinubu’s state visit to France to develop joint projects for promotion and diversification of the critical minerals value chain with emphasis on technical assistance, capacity building, and remediation of abandoned pits.

Corroborating the ambassador, Deputy Head, Regional Economic Department of the French Embassy, Carole Libreton, expressed France’s readiness to fund projects in the mining corporation and collaborate with the ministry to galvanize French companies for development of the mining value chain.

On Ambassador Marc Fonbaustier’s entourage were the French embassy’s head of regional economic department, Florent Mangin and Deputy Head, regional economic department, Carole Lebreton.

Protests broke out across the United States on Saturday following a tense confrontation between former President Donald Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during a meeting at the White House.

According to The Guardian, the clash, which occurred on Friday, prompted hundreds of demonstrators to gather in cities such as Waitsfield, Vermont, New York City, Los Angeles, and Boston, expressing their support for Ukraine and condemning the actions of Trump and Vance.

The protests were initially planned to coincide with Vance’s visit to Vermont for a ski trip with his family. However, tensions from the Oval Office meeting earlier in the week fuelled further participation.

The Guardian reported that demonstrators in Vermont, including members of the grassroots group Indivisible, held signs reading “Vermont stands with Ukraine” and “International embarrassment,” while many waved Ukrainian flags in solidarity.

“After what he did yesterday, he crossed the line,” protester Cori Giroux told Vermont Public Radio.

The protest in Vermont took place despite a call from Republican Governor Phil Scott for residents to be respectful towards Vance during his visit.

Vance, who admitted to never having visited Ukraine, reportedly fled to an undisclosed location to avoid the protesters.

The Oval Office meeting, during which Trump told Zelenskyy to consider a ceasefire with Russia or risk losing US support, was widely criticised.
Trump also accused Zelenskyy of not showing enough gratitude for US military aid and warned that Ukraine’s actions could lead to “World War III.”

Zelenskyy, who has remained in Ukraine despite the ongoing Russian invasion, rejected the suggestion, emphasising that Ukraine could not accept a ceasefire without security guarantees due to Russia’s repeated violations of previous agreements.

The confrontation led to widespread condemnation, with European leaders and officials from countries such as Canada, Australia, and New Zealand voicing their support for Ukraine.

US lawmakers, including Senator Chris Murphy of Connecticut, described the meeting as an “ambush” and rallied behind Zelenskyy.

Protests also took place in major cities across the US. Demonstrators in New York gathered in Times Square, many draping themselves in Ukrainian flags, while in Los Angeles, a pro-Ukraine rally was held outside a SpaceX facility.

“Ukraine wants fair peace. Ukraine wants the war to end,” the group Boston Supports Ukraine wrote on Facebook. “Ukraine wants all of this on fair terms with security guarantees.”

Protesters in Boston, along with others across the country, expressed their desire for the war to end on terms that ensure Ukraine’s security.

The remains of Sarkin Sasa, Haruna Maiyasin Katsina, who died at the age of 125, were laid to rest on Sunday at his residence in the Sasa community, Akinyele Local Government Area, Ibadan, Oyo State.

He was interred at exactly 1:45 pm.

Until his demise, Sarkin Sasa was the Chairman of the Council of ArewaTraditional Rulers in the 17 Southern States of Nigeria.

In a swift move to fill the leadership vacuum, one of his sons, Ahmed Haruna (Ciroma), was unanimously nominated as the new Sarkin Sasa by the family and the traditional councils of the 17 Southern states, our correspondent reports.

During a meeting held on Sunday, a committee was constituted to formally convey the decision to the Olubadan of Ibadanland ahead of the official turbaning of the new Sarkin Sasa, scheduled to take place during the seventh-day Fidau prayer for the late leader.

An impeccable family source disclosed, “The meeting was centred on the next Sarkin Sasa. There must not be a vacuum.

“The over 100 leaders across the 17 Southern States of Nigeria are here, and they have reached a compromise on the new leader. Though, the committee set up in that regard must visit Olubadan.

“The committee has to present the name of the new Sarkin to the paramount ruler (Olubadan) before turbaning him.”

Confirming the development, the Speaker of the Arewa Traditional Rulers, Suleiman Rabiu, stated, “Leaders across 17 states were in attendance during both the burial ceremony and the meeting to nominate the late Maiyasin’s successor.”

Rabiu, who is also the Sarkin Hawusawa of Lagos, Kuje-Amodun-Odofin, added, “Yes, we have nominated Ciroma, one of the late leader’s children. Other children and over 100 leaders across the southern states were in attendance during the exercise.”

Rabiu further emphasised unity among the late leader’s children, saying, “Even before this, we have tutored them (children) that others must support whoever becomes the next Sarkin Sasa.

“And he must not turn himself to a beggar. He shouldn’t be using the seat to extort money from people.”

Meanwhile, Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, described the demise of the Sarkin Sasa as “the end of a great era.”

In a statement issued by his Special Assistant on Print Media, Moses Alao, the governor expressed his condolences to the immediate family of the deceased and the entire Hausa/Fulani community in the state and Southern Nigeria.

“I met the late Sarkin years before I became governor, and our relationship had always been cordial, as the late leader had always been supportive. On behalf of the government and the good people of the state, I express my condolences to the Hausa/Fulani community in this state over the demise of Maiyasin Katsina, the Sarkin Sasa Sardaunan Yamma,” Makinde stated.

He added, “His cooperation with our government was top-notch and exemplary. May Allah grant him Aljanah Firdausi.”

In the same vein, Senators representing Oyo Central and Oyo South Senatorial Districts under the All Progressives Congress, Yunus Akintunde and Sharafadeen Alli, also mourned the revered traditional ruler.

Akintunde, through a statement by his Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Kunle Olatunji, described the late Maiyasin as a staunch advocate of good governance and democracy.

“Well-loved and highly respected by his subjects and associates across the country, the Sarkin Sasa, as he was fondly called, will be sorely missed,” he said.

Similarly, Alli expressed deep sorrow over the monarch’s passing.

In a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Akeem Abass, he described the late traditional ruler as a towering figure in leadership and an unwavering advocate of good governance.

Alli noted, “His leadership virtues were unparalleled, and his peaceful nature was a source of inspiration. He was a father figure to many, always offering wise counsel and unwavering support.”

The Sarkin Sasa, Haruna Maiyasin Katsina, has passed away at the age of 125.

Until his death, he served as the Chairman of the Council of Arewa Traditional Rulers in the 17 southern states of Nigeria.

He died on Saturday evening at his residence in the Sasa community, Ibadan, in the Akinyele Local Government Area of Oyo State.

A family source, who spoke with The PUNCH on Sunday morning, confirmed his passing, stating: “Actually, I am not the family spokesperson, but our revered Sarkin Sasa died yesterday evening. We will issue a statement in this regard as soon as possible.”

Meanwhile, senators representing Oyo Central and Oyo South Senatorial Districts under the All Progressives Congress, Yunus Akintunde and Sharafadeen Alli, have expressed their condolences over the passing of the revered traditional ruler.

In separate statements issued in Ibadan on Sunday, the lawmakers mourned the loss of Sarkin Sasa.

Akintunde, in a statement by his Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Kunle Olatunji, described the late Maiyasin as a staunch advocate of good governance and democracy.

He further described him as an epitome of humility, piety, and dedication to humanitarian service.

“Well-loved and highly respected by his subjects and associates across the country, the Sarkin Sasa, as he was fondly called, will be sorely missed.

“He was both a political and spiritual leader to many, endowed with exceptional leadership qualities and a peaceful disposition. We will miss his unwavering support, guidance, and wisdom.”

“My heartfelt condolences go to his immediate family, his subjects, and the Hausa communities across Nigeria, even beyond his traditional jurisdiction. May Almighty Allah forgive his shortcomings and grant him Aljannah Firdaus,” Akintunde prayed.

Similarly, Senator Alli expressed deep sorrow over the passing of the monarch.

In a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Akeem Abass, Alli described the late traditional ruler as a towering figure in leadership and an unwavering advocate of good governance.

He praised the late ruler’s humility, piety, and dedication to humanity, noting that he remained a beacon of wisdom and a guiding light for many.

Alli commended his invaluable contributions to nation-building and community development through his spiritual and political influence.

“His leadership virtues were unparalleled, and his peaceful nature was a source of inspiration. He was a father figure to many, always offering wise counsel and unwavering support,” Alli said.

The lawmaker extended his heartfelt condolences to the family, the Arewa community, and the people of Sasa.

Wife of Plateau State governor, Helen Mutfwang, has supported the couple that had quadruplets in Jos, with cash, food and other essential items.

Mrs Mutfwang, who visited the couple – Mr and Mrs Samuel Atanu – in Jos on Saturday, said that the gesture was to ease the upkeep of the children.

“These children are a gift to your family and our state; they will grow to do great things and fulfil their destiny,” she said.

The babies – three boys and one girl – born on January 23, appeared healthy and well-fed.

Mr Atanu, while thanking God for the babies, described their arrival as “a divine miracle and a blessing from the Almighty.’’.

He said, “See how the babies have brought us face to face with the governor’s wife. I never imagined we would be blessed with four babies at once.’’

He expressed gratitude for the support, saying that the governor’s wife’s visit had brought joy and encouragement.

He said, “My family is overwhelmed by the show of love and kindness from the governor’s wife. Our joy knows no bounds.”

The Nasiru Haladu Danu (NHD) Foundation has begun feeding 15,000 students at Federal University Dutse (FUD), Jigawa State, as part of its 2025 Ramadan Special Feeding Programme.

The programme coordinator, Abubakar Mijinyawa, announced this during the inauguration at the university’s cafeteria in Dutse on Saturday.

Mr Mijinyawa, who is also the university registrar, explained that 500 students would receive free food, including pap (Kunu) and water, daily throughout Ramadan.

“This initiative, led by the Nasiru Danu Foundation, chosen to feed FUD students for 30 days of Ramadan, is a special programme,” Mr Mijinyawa said.

He stated that in addition to the feeding programme, the foundation was also sponsoring 148 indigent students at the university, studying various courses.

“Plans are also underway to sponsor more indigent students,” Mr Mijinyawa added.

The coordinator commended the gesture, noting that the food was distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

“We are grateful to the foundation and appreciate it on behalf of the university’s management and community. We look forward to continued cooperation. There’s no discrimination; we provide tickets to students, and anyone with a ticket can collect a meal,” Mr Mijinyawa added.

On behalf of the students, the President of the Students’ Union Government, Nasir Isa-Gogori, praised the foundation for its support, stating that the gesture would greatly aid beneficiaries during Ramadan.

“I thank Almighty Allah for allowing us to witness another Ramadan,” he said.

“This is a commendable gesture, especially in tough times when many struggle to feed themselves. Only God can reward such kindness,” Isa-Gogori added.

He also commended students for their orderly conduct while collecting food and assured that the union would monitor the programme’s success.

Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has said strong partnership with nine members of the National Assembly from the state is benefiting residents’ lives.

The governor stated this on Saturday in Ikosu-Ekiti, Moba Local Government Area of the state during an empowerment programme hosted by a House of Representatives member, Akinlayo Kolawole.

Mr Oyebanji noted that the successful collaboration was responsible for the increase in federal projects and the appointment of many Ekiti State indigenes under President Bola Tinubu’s leadership.

The governor, represented by Deputy Governor, Monisade Afuye, praised the federal lawmakers for their loyalty to the electorate and their efforts in enhancing development through projects and human capital initiatives.

He commended Mr Kolawole for his commitment to human capital development, noting the significant amount of materials distributed to citizens as part of his administration’s efforts.

Mr Oyebanji urged the people of Ekiti North Federal Constituency not to sell the materials at giveaway prices, warning that it could hinder government’s poverty reduction efforts.

The governor pledged to intensify efforts in poverty reduction, employment generation, agricultural expansion, road infrastructure, rural development, security, and youth economic opportunities.

In a display of generosity, Mr Kolawole distributed N15 million to over 300 widows and vulnerable people across the Local Governments of Ido/Osi, Ilejemeje, and Moba.

The lawmaker stressed the importance of federal lawmakers working closely with Mr Oyebanji to address poverty and neglect in the state, enhancing the impact of democracy at the grass-roots.

The distributed items included 100 motorcycles, fridges, generators, dryers, roofing sheets, knapsack spraying machines, sewing machines, grinding machines, cash gifts, and others.

Head of Service of the Federation, Didi Walson-Jack, has hailed the construction of a new nine-storey civil servants’ secretariat by the Bayelsa State Government.

She spoke during the groundbreaking ceremony of the project in Yenagoa on Saturday.

Mrs Walson-Jack said that upon completion, the iconic structure would remain in her memory as an exciting legacy of Governor Douye Diri’s administration.

She described the event as a significant milestone, recalling her time in Bayelsa’s public service and feeling nostalgic about witnessing the foundation-laying ceremony.

She said: “The civil service is the engine of government, providing expertise and structure for effective governance. A well-motivated and efficient civil service needs capable personnel, strong policies, and an enabling work environment that fosters professionalism, collaboration, and innovation.”

The head of service emphasised that the project demonstrated the Bayelsa State government’s commitment to strengthening governance and service delivery.

She stated, “This new state secretariat is a commendable effort to provide public servants with a conducive workplace. I applaud the Bayelsa State government for its dedication to infrastructure development. This project aligns with the broader vision of strengthening Nigeria’s civil service at both state and federal levels to enhance governance.’’

Earlier, the state governor stated that the workers’ complex would be an electronic secretariat, with the project costing N46 billion.

He said the government had already mobilised contractors with 30 per cent of the project sum and approved the release of another 20 per cent upon take off.

Mr Diri assured that funding would not be an issue and that the project would be completed in 24 months.

He urged state workers to reciprocate the government’s commitment to their welfare and well-being.

“What propelled me to build a new secretariat was the civil servants’ request for office accommodation, which was raised repeatedly every Workers’ Day,” he said.

He expressed delight that the new secretariat would end complaints from labour unions about inadequate office space.

The state Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Moses Teibowei, said that the project was conceived and initiated by the Diri administration.

He stated that the structure would provide a conducive and befitting communal space for the state’s workforce.

The proposed structure would feature modern, eco-friendly green solutions to support key functional needs of the state.

It would cover a footprint of 3,675.633 square metres within a gross area of 26,762.99 square metres and include parking for 155 cars.

Operations Director of Megastar Technical and Construction Company Ltd., Carlos Zanone, said that the building would be equipped with a solar power-backed system.

Additional features would include conference halls, a six-bed sick bay, and a crèche to support working families.

He added that the facility would be built to modern standards, using high-quality materials to enhance the area’s aesthetics.

Mr Zanone assured that the 24-month completion timeframe was achievable.

The state Head of Service, Biobelemoye Charles-Onyema, thanked the state governor, describing the project as a dream come true for all Bayelsa civil servants.

The federal government once again paid National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members N33,000 as allowance for February despite assurances that a new monthly allowance of N77,000 would commence in the just-concluded month.

Corps members have been anticipating an increased monthly allowance since President Bola Tinubu approved an upward review of the national minimum wage to N70,000 last year.

However, the current administration has failed to accommodate the NYSC members in the new payment system.

This persistent neglect has prompted many corps members to voice their frustration against the government and NYSC management on social media. They cited the bad conditions they endure away from their comfort zones due to the country’s harsh economic situation.

Many were relieved when the Director-General of NYSC, Brigadier General Yushau Ahmed, announced in January to corps members in Katsina State that they would start receiving an allowance of N77,000 starting from February.

However, Mr Ahmed’s commitment turned out to be another empty promise, as corps members across the country were once more paid N33,000 monthly.

Meanwhile, some corps members have taken to social media to decry the government’s latest decision to pay them N33,000 again, with one saying, “They’ve given us 33k again! I’m tired of this selfish gov’t!”

Another posted, “But why the confidence the Nigerian government has in inflicting pains on citizens ..Nysc is causing us excruciating pains, I spend 100k+ every month — 33k can’t even sort out data bills nor transportation, so 77k is too much to pay.”

Some residents of Makurdi, the Benue capital, have lamented the acute scarcity of water in the metropolis.

Almost all the households in Makurdi that depend on wells for their daily water supply have lost them to the drought.

A cross-section of residents who spoke to journalists on Saturday lamented that they could not get water to buy, even when they had money.

Rose Abah, a resident of Makurdi, said that the well in their compound dried up as early as December 2024, and she had been depending on people selling water, popularly called ‘Mairuwa,’ for both domestic use and bathing since then.

However, Ms Abah said that it had also become difficult for her to get water from Mairuwa since the beginning of February 2025.

She said that her Mairuwa customers kept telling her that they could not find water to buy and resell to her.

Ms Abah, who also complained that Mairuwa had increased the price of their water per truck, lamented that even the price hike had not encouraged them to supply water promptly to customers.

“A truckload of water, which contains 10 of 20-litre jerrycans, used to be N600, but I am now buying it at the rate of N1,000.

“Some Mairuwa even sell for N1,500, depending on the distance from the source of supply, yet we do not see to buy,” Ms. Abah explained.

Joseph Akogwu, another resident, said he used his motorcycle to carry two 25-litre jerrycans from his Ankpa Quarters residence as far as BENARDA in search of water every day.

“Our area is not connected to the water board, so people depend on boreholes, which mostly dry up during the dry season.

“Mairuwa, too, are not finding it easy to get water because they have to solely depend on water tankers to supply them before they resell. So we are just praying to God for rain to start falling early this year,” Mr Akogwu said.

Sunday Orinya said he had a 3,000-litre tank at home, where a water tanker driver used to supply him with water monthly at the rate of N4,000 during the rainy season.

However, Mr Orinya said he had to start filling the tank weekly at the rate of N10,000 after his well dried up in January.

He said that sometimes he found it difficult to get the tanker driver to supply him with water because of the scarcity.

“Right now, it is not even about the money but about the availability of water because sometimes I have my money ready to buy, but the tanker driver, too, will not have to sell to me.

“I have got the phone numbers of three sets of tanker drivers so that I can switch customer service, but the story is the same with all of them as they always complain that the queue for water at the source is too long,” Mr Orinya said.

The residents, therefore, called on Gov. Hyacinth Alia to rescue them from the scourge of water scarcity by providing the whole of Makurdi with clean, pipe-borne water.

National Youth Service Corp member, Rofiat Lawal, who was kidnapped along the Benin-Ore Expressway on Tuesday has regained freedom after her family paid a ransom of N1.1m.

PUNCH Online reports that Lawal was kidnapped while en route to Ibadan, Oyo State from Benin, Edo State to resume at her place of primary assignment.

The abductors were said to have demanded an N20m ransom which her family appealed that they could not afford.

Following back-and-forth negotiations, the kidnappers reportedly reduced the N20m ransom to N5m.

Giving an update on the incident, Lawal’s friend identified as Agbakwara, who was privy to the incident, disclosed on Saturday that Aminat has regained her freedom.

Sharing a video of the victim in a Facebook post, Agbakwara wrote, “In the early hours of Friday, the kidnappers pressured us, warning that if we failed to meet their demands, we should not expect her return.

“In desperation, I reached out to everyone I could, her colleagues in school, the Muslim association, her friends from her hometown, my fans, and her family.

“Through the collective efforts and generosity of so many, we were able to raise N1.1 million, which was sent at 4:20 pm on Friday to an account provided by the kidnappers.

“The recipient, Isaac Ayo, claimed that his sister had also been kidnapped and assured us he would deliver the ransom alongside his own.”

He stated that Lawal was finally reunited with her family on Saturday morning.

“For hours, we anxiously waited. Finally, at around 10 pm, we received the long-awaited call: they had been released and taken to the hospital.

“This morning, we got another call confirming that Rofiat was on her way home, and the others had also safely returned to their families.

“I want to express my deepest gratitude to everyone who contributed, shared the news, and tagged the necessary authorities. Your support made this possible,” he concluded.

The Ogun State Police Command has arrested Odukaye Kunle, the man accused of abusing his son, Boluwatife, in Otta, Ogun State. His arrest comes after he was caught on camera kicking a young boy sparking public outrage and a swift response from law enforcement.

This development was confirmed in a statement shared on Saturday by the Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, via X (formerly Twitter).

According to the police, Kunle has been taken into custody and will face charges in court on Monday. Meanwhile, the boy and his mother are being taken to the police medical centre in Otta for further medical evaluation and care.

The statement said, “Update on Ogun Child Abuse: Odukaye Kunle, the father who brutalised his son, Boluwatife, in Otta area, Ogun State, has just been arrested by the police.

“The mother of the boy and the boy will be taken to our police medical centre Otta for further medical assessment and attention. The OC Medical, Ogun State has been ordered to proceed to otta on this mission.

“Kunle will be charged to court on Monday. We commend the CP Ogun State, CP Lanre Ogunlowo, and his team for their commitment and ensuring that the boy gets justice. We appreciate you all for your concerns as well. Thanks.”

The arrest follows a manhunt launched by the Ogun State Police Command after a Facebook user, Adelere Rasaki, shared a video on Thursday showing Kunle viciously kicking the young boy.

The distressing footage quickly gained traction, leading to widespread condemnation and calls for justice.

The Saudi Arabian authorities have distributed 50 tonnes of dates to Kano state and other northern part of the country.

A similar donation of 50 tones have been distributed in Abuja.

The donation, according to a statement by the Embassy in Abuja, was part of its annual humanitarian relief programmes.

The initiative, facilitated by the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre (KSrelief), aims to support vulnerable families across the country and strengthen the deep-rooted ties between the two nations.

The Consul General of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques in Kano, Khalil Admawy, conveyed the Kingdom’s dedication to humanitarian causes during the official ceremony to distribute (50 tones) of dates to Kano State Government and northern Nigerian State.

The statement reads in part: “He expressed his profound gratitude to King Salman bin Abdelaziz and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for their unwavering support in providing aid to Muslims and underserved communities worldwide.

“He emphasized that Saudi Arabia remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering Islamic solidarity and providing relief to those in need.

“He further explained that this year’s distribution includes 50 tones of dates for Abuja which took place last week and another 50 tones for Kano and some northern Nigerian States which arrangements are ongoing on to deliver it to them, continuing Saudi Arabia’s tradition of assisting Nigeria through humanitarian donations.

“He noted that the initiative represents the Kingdom’s broader mission to uplift Muslim communities, alleviate suffering, and promote unity, particularly during significant by the custodian of the two Holy Mosques to King Salman bin Abdelaziz religious periods such as Ramadan indicating that the launching of IFTAAR PROGAMME which has been scheduled to take place no dr3 Month of Ramadan in Abuja is another humanitarian gesture by Saudi king Salman bin Abdelaziz.

“The Consulate, in collaboration with local authorities and humanitarian organizations, will ensure the proper distribution of the dates so that they reach the most vulnerable families in various regions of Nigeria.

“Since the establishment of the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre(KSrelief), in 2025, with the help of 175 members of the united nations, the center has completed and delivered more than 2500 projects valued at moer$7 billion, benefitting 91 countries.

“Lastly, the consul General asked the Almighty Alah’s protection for the both countries and their rulers.”

The Akwa Ibom Council of Traditional Rulers has honored President Bola Ahmed Tinubu with its most prestigious title, “Otuekong,” which translates to Commander-in-Chief of Akwa Ibom State.

The title was bestowed on the President during a ceremony on Friday at the State House in Abuja.

The event was led by Nteyin Solomon Etuk, Okuibom Ibibio III, the President General of the council, along with other prominent chiefs.

Governor Umo Eno headed the 104-member delegation that accompanied the traditional rulers to the State House for the occasion.

Tinubu while receiving the title stated that the country’s full potential can be better realised when political leaders look beyond party loyalty in serving the nation.

A statement by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, on Friday, February 28 partly reads: “The Akwa Ibom State Council of Traditional Rulers has conferred President Bola Ahmed Tinubu with the highest traditional title: ‘Otuekong, or Commander–in–Chief of Akwa Ibom State.’
 
“The conferment was held Friday at the State House, Abuja. The President General, Nteyin Solomon Etuk, Okuibom Ibibio III, led the chiefs.
 
“The chiefs were among the 104-member delegation led to the State House by Governor Umo Eno.
 
“Other delegation members were political leaders from different parties, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio and his wife Ekaette, religious leaders, former ministers and lawmakers, women and youth groups.
 
” ‘I accept all the honours and the conferment. I am one of you. Going back in time, I recall staying in Eket as an auditor of Mobil. We are all friends and family with the State that has moved progressively, with development and speed,’ President Tinubu said.
 
“He said the country’s full potential can be better realised when political leaders look beyond party loyalty in serving the nation.
 
“President Tinubu attributed the progress in Akwa Ibom State to consistency of vision and commitment to the collective development goal.”

Oando Plc has emerged the preferred bidder for the lease of the Guaracara Refinery in Trinidad and Tobago.

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Peoples Gazette learnt that Oando was selected as the bidder having defeated Trinidad’s CRO Consortium and INCA Energy.

In a statement on Thursday, Trinidad and Tobago’s acting Minister of Energy, Stuart Young, said Oando won the bid primarily based on its strong financial track record, emphasising its $1.5bn acquisition of ConocoPhillips’ assets in Nigeria in 2014.

Mr Young said, “Today Cabinet agreed to inform Trinidad Petroleum Holdings Limited (TPHL) of its non-objection to the pursuit of discussions with energy company Oando to negotiate the lease of the Guaracara refinery.’’

The minister noted Oando’s proposal aligned with the government’s goals of reducing the state’s burden and creating flexibility for the future operation of the refinery.

According to the evaluation committee, Oando defeated companies such as the CRO Consortium given its ability to secure substantial financing in the upstream oil sector.

Mr Young further stressed the need to protect Paria Fuel Trading Company’s assets, stating that it was crucial to ensuring the continued supply of domestic fuel in the country.

“We have to protect the assets of Paria to always ensure that we can provide domestic fuel to our population,” Mr Young added, stressing that potential bidders must be committed to restarting the refinery and not just acquiring Paria’s assets only for bunkering purposes.

This development came weeks after Oando announced its upstream subsidiary, Oando Energy Resources (OER), secured a bid to operate an oil block in Angola.

Commercial banks in Nigeria have begun enforcing withdrawal fees on Automated Teller Machines transactions by their customers from March 1, 2025.

The implementation is in line with the direction of the Central Bank of Nigeria.

Many of the Deposit Money Banks on Friday sent notices to their customers that implementation of the directive would commence today.

One of the leading commercial banks, Ecobank, in a statement, said “Dear valued customers, please be informed that effective March 1, 2025, a new ATM transaction fee will apply to all Ecobank cardholders, in line with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) directive.”

The bank further informed its customers of the various transactions that would attract charges such as offsite withdrawals and those that would be free such as onsite withdrawals as directed by the Apex bank.

Recall that the CBN’s directive was contained in a circular dated February 10, 2025, titled, “review of ATM transaction fees, scheduled for implementation from March 1, 2025.

The apex bank stated, “This review is expected to accelerate the deployment of ATMs and to ensure that appropriate charges are applied by financial institutions to consumers of the service. Withdrawals from customer’s own bank will be free while customers using ATMs of other banks will now pay a charge of N100 per withdrawal of N20,000 or less at onsite ATMs located within or directly affiliated with a bank branch.

“Off-site ATMs, which are positioned outside bank premises in locations such as shopping malls, fuel stations, and other public spaces, will attract an additional surcharge of up to N500 per transaction. For international ATM withdrawals, charges will be based on cost recovery, where customers will bear the exact fee applied by the international acquirer.’’

The development was a response by the apex bank to rising costs and the need to improve efficiency of ATMs in the banking industry.

An 18-year-old girl, Rukayat Ashiru, on Friday, appeared before the Iyaganku Chief Magistrates’ Court for allegedly stealing N4 million cash belonging to her boyfriend.

The defendant is standing trial on a two-count charge of conspiracy and stealing, to which she pleaded not guilty.

The prosecutor, PC Olapeju Durodola, told the court that the defendant and others now at large committed the offences on November 30, 2024, at Mufu Lanihun, Yidi Agugu, in Ibadan.

She said the defendant allegedly added a substance to the drink of her boyfriend, Waris Olamilekan, to make him lose consciousness.

According to her, the defendant stole the money after adding the substance to the complainant’s drink.

Ms Durodola said the offences contravened sections 390(9) and 516 of the Criminal Code, Laws of Oyo State, 2000.

The chief magistrate, Olabisi Ogunkanmi, admitted the defendant to N2 million bail with two sureties in like sum.

Ms Ogunkanmi said one of the sureties must be a property owner within the court’s jurisdiction, while the second surety must be a blood relation to the defendant.

She, thereafter, adjourned the matter until May 26 for a hearing.

The Nigeria Customs Service, Oyo/Osun Area Command, says it intercepted contraband goods with a duty paid value (DPV) of N165.3 million in February.

The area controller, Joseph Adelaja, disclosed this in Ibadan on Friday while briefing journalists on the command’s achievement for February.

Mr Adelaja, who assumed duty on February 7, said the area command intercepted and seized several high-profile smuggling consignments.

He listed the seizures to include 1,043 bags of foreign rice of 50 kg, 452 pieces of used tyres, two bales of used clothes, and 233 kegs of 25 litres each of petrol.

“The interception and seizure of these prohibited and uncustomed items have prevented the illegal inflow of products that undermine local industries, particularly rice farmers and manufacturers in the region.

“The interception of prohibited foreign parboiled rice has led to the increase in production and consumption of the local rice in Oyo and Osun States, respectively,” Mr Adelaja said.

He reiterated the command’s commitment to its core mandates of revenue collection and anti-smuggling operations.

The controller said the command recorded N2,048,487,969 as revenue for February, explaining that this reflected the efficiency of the command’s officers and men.

According to him, the area command has made significant strides in curbing smuggling activities, safeguarding the nation’s economy, and protecting local industries from the harmful effects of illicit trade.

“These remarkable achievements have been made possible through the unwavering dedication, professionalism, and cooperation of officers and men of the command,” he said.

He added that the command had significantly reduced tax evasion by adopting advanced technology, such as the deployment of improved data analytics.

Mr Adelaja said this had enabled the command to monitor trade flows and identify discrepancies effectively.

The area controller acknowledged that partnership with other security agencies facilitated the exchange of intelligence, allowing joint operations to dismantle smuggling networks in the region.