Category: General News

Unemployed man jailed 3 years for receiving stolen train batteries
Unemployed man jailed 3 years for receiving stolen train batteries
Sentence
By Amen Gajira
Kafanchan (Kaduna State) June 13, 2024 (NAN) A Magistrates’ Court in Kafanchan, Kaduna State on Thursday, sentenced a 40-year-old unemployed man, Chibuzo Emmanuel, to three years imprisonment for receiving stolen train batteries and cylinder.
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corp (NSCDC) charged Emmanuel alongside Adamu Danbaba, 52, with theft and receiving stolen property.
The NSCDC prosecutor, Mr Marcus Audu, told the court that a complaint was made at the corp’s office by the Nigeria Railway Corporation, North Central District Kafanchan, on May 13.
Audu stated that Danbaba, a railway staff member, stole two train batteries and 12kg cylinder from his office and sold them to Emmanuel for N24, 000.
The offence, he noted, contravened the provisions of sections 271 and 302 of the Kaduna State Penal Code Law.
When the charge was read to the defendants, Emmanuel pleaded guilty and begged the court for leniency while Danbaba denied the charge against him.
The prosecutor prayed the court to try Emmanuel summarily and asked for another date to call witnesses to prove the case against Danbaba.
In his ruling, magistrate Michael Bawa sentenced Emmanuel to three years imprisonment and ordered that Danbaba should be remanded.
Bawa adjourned the case until June 24 for hearing. (NAN)
AMEN/SH
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edited by Sadiya Hamza
June 13, 2024
IHRC urges FG to adopt versatile approach in tackling insecurity
Insecurity
By Alex Enebeli
Enugu, June 13, 2024 (NAN) Mr Abdullahi Adamu, National General Secretary, International Human Rights Commission (IHRC), Nigeria chapter, has urged the Federal Government to adopt a multi-faceted approach in tackling insecurity bedeviling the country.
Adamu made the call while reacting to President Bola Tinubu’s June 12 speech on security on Wednesday in Enugu.
He said to combat the lingering insecurity in the country, the government needed to take a comprehensive and multi-faceted approach by strengthening the security forces.
This, he said, includes enhancing their capacity and coordination with better training, equipment, and intelligence gathering.
He added that the communities should be engaged to foster collaboration between the security agencies and local communities to improve trust and gather valuable intelligence.
Adamu said that to address the root causes of insecurity, the government needed to tackle the underlying issues such as poverty, unemployment and lack of education that contribute to insecurity.
“Improve governance by ensuring transparency, accountability, and good governance to build public trust and reduce corruption, which often exacerbates security issues.
“Government needs to promote economic development by creating economic opportunities to reduce the appeal of criminal activities and insurgency,” he said.
Adamu further said that the regional cooperation with neighboring countries would be of great advantage to address cross-border security threats and sharing of credible intelligence.
“Addressing security challenges is crucial for building public trust and ensuring national stability.
“Democracy cannot truly thrive in an atmosphere of fear and insecurity and for it to function effectively, the citizens must feel safe and secure in exercising their rights and participating in the political process.
“Insecurity undermines the rule of law, restricts freedoms, and erodes trust in democratic institutions.
”Therefore, ensuring security is a fundamental prerequisite for a healthy and functioning democracy,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
AAE/OIF/BRM
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Edited by Ifeyinwa Okonkwo/Bashir Rabe Mani a
June 13, 2024
Oborevwori felicitates Okonjo-Iweala at 70

Oborevwori felicitates Okonjo-Iweala at 70
Felicitation
By Ifeanyi Olannye
Asaba, June 13, 2024 (NAN) Gov. Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta has congratulated the Director-General of World Trade Organisation (WTO), Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, as she clocks 70.
The governor’s felicitation is contained in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Festus Ahon, on Thursday, in Asaba.
He described Okonjo-Iweala as a distinguished daughter of Delta from Ogwashi-Uku, praising her for being the first African woman to lead the global trade organisation.
Oborevwori said that she was a shining example of professionalism and integrity, and a great role model for women.
He commended the WTO Director-General for her sublime and remarkable achievements in support of Nigeria and the international financial sector.
Oborevwori remarked that Okonjo-Iweala made laudable contributions to the development of Nigeria’s economy, as a two-time Finance Minister.
He extolled Okonjo-Iweala for her intellect and skill as a leading economist and specialist in international development, whose faultless work over the years had won her praise from all over the world.
“As a state, we take great pride in your impressive achievements, which have earned you numerous accolades and recognition over the years.
“Your innovative contributions as Finance Minister under Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan are particularly noteworthy.
“On behalf of my family, the Delta State government, and our people, I extend warm congratulations to you, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, on your 70th birth anniversary.
“I join your family, colleagues, and well-wishers in expressing gratitude to God for your remarkable life, filled with outstanding accomplishments and fulfillment.
“As you celebrate three scores and ten, I pray that God grants you continued good health, happiness, and many more years of impactful contributions to the global economy.”(NAN)(www.nannews.com.ng).
IO/SOA
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Edited by Oluwole Sogunle
June 13, 2024
Cleric says Nigeria’s democracy mainly in favour of politicians
Democracy
By Christian Njoku
Calabar, June 13, 2024 (NAN) Bishop Emmah Isong, the Publicity Secretary, Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) has said that Nigeria’s democracy has mainly favoured politicians.
Isong made the statement in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Calabar in Thursday.
He said that the 25 years of uninterrupted democratic rule in the country had no remarkable positive impacts on the citizenry.
“Only a few Nigerians, mainly politicians have enjoyed the dividends of the 25 years uninterrupted democracy in the country,” he said.
The PFN publicity secretary said that Nigerian politicians had used the reign of democratic rule to impoverish the masses and illegally enrich themselves.
Isong, also the Presiding Bishop, Christian Central Chapel International, Calabar, said that the political leadership in the country had failed to prioritise service delivery.
“They want to remain in office, they are not interested in doing any other thing, their interest is to remain in charge of public funds,” he said.
He said that although the choice of democratic governance was in order, the absence of sincerity on the part of the leadership was the challenge.
Isong said that there was need for some constitutional adjustments to enhance patriotism, discipline and commitment in leadership.
“Such adjustments will definitely sanitise the electoral process too. We can’t get leadership right if the electoral process is faulty,” he said.
He said that the political class should take deliberate steps towards promoting citizens welfare, equity and fairness in service delivery.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
CBN/NCI/AZU
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Edited by Nkiru Ifeajuna and Azubuike Okeh
June 13, 2024
Niger Govt. inaugurates c’ttee to investigate communal crisis
Niger Govt. inaugurates c’ttee to investigate communal crisis
Committee
By Rita Iliya
Minna, June 12, 2024 (NAN) The Niger Government has inaugurated a 13-member committee to investigate the crisis between Dukku and Fulani communities in Rijau Local Government Area of the state.
Alhaji Abubakar Usman, Secretary to the Niger Government (SSG), inaugurated the committee in Minna on Wednesday.
He said the committee consisted of men of proven integrity and honesty, urging them to discharge their duties with sincerity of purpose and diligence.
Usman reiterated the state government’s commitment to guarantee peace and security of the people in the state regardless of their backgrounds.
The terms of reference of the committee include tracing the historical background of the crisis as well as examining the immediate and remote causes of the crisis.
The committee is to also identify the victims of the dispute from the two communities and proffer far-reaching recommendations to avert the recurrence of the crisis anywhere in the state, among others.
Alhaji Nairu Mua’zu, Commissioner for Justice will serve as the Chairman of the committee while other members are the Commissioners for Nomadic and Pastoral Affairs, Health, Homeland Security and Local Government.
Others are the House of Assembly member representing Rijau State Constituency, Special Adviser on Security, Chairman, Rijau LGA, representatives of the Commissioner of Police and the Kontagora Emirate Council.
Also included in the committee is the Permanent Secretary, Ministry for Local Government while the Permanent Secretary, Homeland Security and that of Nomadic and Pastoral Affairs will be the Secretary I and II, respectively.
The committee has a two-week time frame to submit its report. (NAN) (www.naannews.ng)
RIS/BRM
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Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani
June 13, 2024
Lamuwa, foreign affairs ministry’s perm-sec, queried over alleged sexual harassment
Lamuwa, foreign affairs ministry’s perm-sec, queried over alleged sexual harassment
Query
By Fortune Abang
Abuja, June 12, 2024 (NAN) The Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (OHCSF), has queried Mr Ibrahim Lamuwa, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, over alleged sexual harassment.
Lamuwa, who served as Nigeria’s Ambassador to Senegal with concurrent accreditation to Mauritania before his appointment as Permanent Secretary, is accused of sexually harassing Mrs Simisola Ajayi, who works in the ministry.
Mr Muhammed Ahmed, Deputy-Director of Communication in the OHCSF, confirmed Lamuwa’s query on Wednesday in Abuja.
“Lamuwa was queried in accordance with the Civil Service rules and regulations,” he told the News Agency of Nigeria(NAN).
According to him, the query is to give the accused a fair hearing.
“His response will set the path for further necessary action.”
He also hinted that there would be “unhindered investigation into the alleged case of sexual harassment”.
“We are following the procedure in the Civil Service. The case shall be fully investigated,” he said.
NAN reports that the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr Yusuf Tuggar had, based on a petition by Ajayi, through her Legal Counsel, Femi Falana, officially asked Mrs Folasade Yemi-Esan, Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, to wade-in on the matter.
His letter asking her to step in on the matter went viral on Tuesday.
Tuggar stated in the letter: “Bearing in mind the gravity of the matter, it has become necessary to draw your attention to it, while requesting the OHCSF to handle the matter”.
The deadline for Lamuwa’s response could not be confirmed, but an unconfirmed source said that he had been asked to step aside to avoid interference that could taint investigation into the matter. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
FEA/ETS
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June 13, 2024
Democracy: Group wants Tinubu give succour to workers
Workers
By Raji Rasak
Lagos, June 12, 2024 (NAN) A group known as The Collective, has congratulated Nigerians on Democracy Day, urging President Bola Tinubu to ensure a living wage for the country’s workforce to improve their welfare.
In a statement on Wednesday to mark Nigeria’s 25 years of unbroken democracy, the group said that Nigerian workers were suffering at present due to inflation.
The statement was issued by the group’s Director of Media, Mr Ndubuisi Nwachukwu, in Lagos.
The Collective said that a living wage would prevent labour unions from going on strike.
The group added that a living wage would prevent brain drain.
It urged the Federal Government to use the democracy day celebration to reflect on many issues affecting the nation, especially high cost of foodstuffs and insecurity.
According to the group, rising cost of food items and transport have made life difficult for many Nigerians.
” With the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu’s administratoon, Nigerians expect their lives to be better,” it said.
The group said that the citizens expected much from the government as Nigeria marked 25 years of democracy.
It listed the expections to include economic stability and growth with attendant job creation, poverty reduction and infrastructure development.
It also said that Nigerians desired an end to terrorism, banditry and other forms of violence.
“Nigerians look forward to more transparency, accountability and effective fight against corruption in government.
“They also expect improved healthcare services and education standards,” it said.
The group added that Nigerians desired electoral reforms and strengthening of democratic institutions that would promote a more prosperous and peaceful nation. (NAN)
ROR/CHOM/IGO
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Edited by Chioma Ugboma/Ijeoma Popoola
June 12, 2024
Gov Bago salutes Abdulsalam at 82
Felicitation
By Mohammed Baba Busu
Niger, June 12, 2024, (NAN) Gov. Umar Bago of Niger has congratulated Nigeria’s former Head of State, and Chairman of the National Peace Committee, Retired Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar on his 82nd birthday.
This is contained in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim and made available to newsmen in Minna on Wednesday.
The governor joined family members, friends, and associates of the retired Gen. Abubakar in celebrating the milestone.
He described the former Head of State as an epitome of unity, and a patriotic elder statesman, who has made significant contributions to the growth and stability of the nation and the West African sub-region at large .
Bago noted with delight that the celebrant has exuded great patriotism and historic roles by ensuring smooth transition from Military to Civilian rule in 1999, thereby laying the solid foundation of democracy in Nigeria.
He commended Abubakar for being consistent in placing national interest far above his personal ambition for the greater good of the nation.
He said that the reputation the celebrant had earned as a peacemaker and nation builder would remain invaluable in the democratic history of not only Nigeria but Africa as a continent.
The governor noted that the leadership and statesmanship of the retired Nigerian Army General had left an indelible mark on Nigeria, and commended him for his service to the country and commitment to peace and unity, which he said, has been an inspiration to many .
Bago then prayed to God to grant the celebrant robust health, increase his wisdom and strength to continue to serve humanity.(NAN)(www.nannewsngr.com)
BAB/IU
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Edited by Isaac Ukpoju
June 12, 2024
Nigerian banking system is stable, CIBN assures Nigerians
Prof. Pius Olarenwaju, President/Chairman of Council, CIBN.
Lagos, June 12, 2024 (NAN) The Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) on Wednesday reassured Nigerians that the banking system remained “safe, sound and resilient,” dispelling fears of bank liquidations.

Its president, Prof. Pius Olanrewaju, gave the reassurance in a statement in Lagos to correct misinformation and fake news that licence of more banks would be revoked.

Olanrewaju emphasised the importance of clarifying rumours that additional bank licenses would be revoked, following the regulatory action taken by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) against Heritage Bank Plc on June 3.
“We would like to allay the fears of bank customers and the general public that the assertion is false and misleading.
“The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) have debunked the claim,” the Chairman of Council, CIBN, stated.
He added that the ongoing recapitalisation process announced by the CBN aims to further strengthen the resilience of banks and their capacity to support the growth of the Nigerian economy.
“Consequently, we urge the public to continue conducting their banking services without hesitation or apprehension,” Olanrewaju said.
According to him, CIBN is committed to promoting best practices and ensuring that the sector remains safe and sound, in collaboration with other stakeholders in the ecosystem. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
GA/AWA
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Edited by Olawunmi Ashafa
June 12, 2024
Democracy Day: FG seeks religious leaders’ support
Democracy Day: FG seeks religious leaders’ support
Support
By Collins Yakubu-Hammer
Abuja, June 12, 2024 (NAN) Alhaji Mohammed Idris, Minister of Information and National Orientation, has urged religious leaders to support the Federal Government in the communication, understanding and delivery of democratic dividends to the citizenry.
Idris made the appeal while declaring open the 2024 Synod of the Charismatic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) on Wednesday in Abuja.
The conference has the theme, “Behold How Good and Pleasant it is for Brethren to Dwell Together in Unity”.
According to the minister, the convening of spiritual leaders of immense influence and experience could not have come at a better time.
“Your role as spiritual leaders in promoting peace, unity, and hope within our communities cannot be overstated.
“Just a few days ago, your collective voices were heard loud and clear, urging Organised Labour not to allow their grievances to lead to a shutdown of the national economy.
“We deeply appreciate this and other patriotic interventions from you.
We are all united, as Nigerians, by a love of country and a consistent desire to see the peace, progress, and prosperity of the land.
“Though tribes, tongues, religion, and political beliefs may differ, in brotherhood we stand, eternally proud of our country and full of belief in the limitless potential of its present and its future.
“As a government, we need your support, advice, and feedback. Very importantly also, we need you to be aware of the efforts being made, and the challenges being faced.
“This is important, so that you can help us communicate these to your congregations and the general public,” Idris said.
The minister noted that, often, citizens are not aware of the opportunities arising from the implementation of government policies and programmes.
He said that many ordinary Nigerians had benefited and are benefiting from presidential loans, grant schemes and other interventions, without needing to have any ‘connection’.
Idris stressed that all they did was to follow a simple application process.
“Information and awareness are critical, and this is where our religious leaders come in.
“You have very influential platforms that can enlighten Nigerians on their rights, responsibilities, and the abundance of economic opportunities being thrown up by President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda,” Idris said.
Meanwhile, the President-General of the CBCN, Prof. Leonard Kawas, called on Nigerians to be patient with the Tinubu Administration.
According to him, the current challenges in the country are not caused by the administration.
“But however, the President and his team are trying their best to ensure that we overcome those challenges, and make Nigeria a better place for all,” Kawas said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
CMY/COF
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Edited by Christiana Fadare
June 12, 2024