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  • 1 out of 4 substance abusers a woman – NDLEA 

    Wife of Anambra State Governor, Dr Nonye Soludo launches Operation Clean Anambra of Substance Abuse

     

    Drugs

    By Lucy Osuizigbo-Okechukwu

    Awka, June 13, 2024 (NAN) The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) says one out of every four users of illicit drugs is a woman.

    Mr Daniel Onyishi, Commander of the NDLEA in the state of Anambra, gave the statistics at the inauguration of the Operation Clean Anambra of Substance Abuse by Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo Initiative, in Awka.

    Onyishi said that the agency was working with the Governor’s Wife to address the growing drug abuse cases in  Anambra.

    “According to recent statistics, Nigeria alone has 14.4 per cent drug abuse prevalence rate and it is projected that by 2030, it will rise to 40 per cent if nothing is done.

    “The major concern is that women, especially young girls, are embracing substance abuse. One out of every four drug abusers is a woman and one out of five will suffer substance abuse disorder.

    “Women are key nurturers, moulders and  caregivers in the society and should not be involved in illicit drug abuse.

    “As an agency, we are taking the sensitisation and enforcement into the communities because grassroots campaign is the only way to address the menace of drug abuse.

    “We are not spirits, therefore, we urge community leaders to give us information about drug dealers in their environment. Illicit drug dealing is a crime and not a business,” he said.

    In her address, Wife of the Anambra Governor, Dr Nonye Soludo, lamented that substance abuse had become a pandemic in the society, requiring collective effort to tackle.

    Soludo said that the menace of illicit drug abuse contributed to the high rate of crimes, violence and health complications.

    “Healthy Living initiative is championing this fight in schools and communities to break the wall of illicit drugs economy which is booming at the detriment of our society.

    “We have constituted Healthy Living Overwatch in the 179 communities to monitor illicit drug dealers and report same to security agencies.

    “The target is to make everyone a driver of solution to rid Anambra of this deadly disease called drug abuse and save the lives and future of our children,” Soludo said.

    Also speaking, Dr Afam Obidike, Commissioner for Health, said that the campaign would save the youths from degenerating into a generational tragedy with drug addiction.

    In his remarks,  Mr Titus Akpudo, President-General, Anambra State Association of Town Union, promised to take the message of substance abuse to the nooks and crannies of the state.

    “As community leaders,  we  must support the Governor’s Wife in the fight to eliminate substance abuse in our communities because if we do not act now, it will hunt us in future,” he said.(NAN) www.nannews.ng

    LCO/DE/VIV

    ========

    Edited by Dorcas Jonah/Vivian Ihechu

  • Court to hear suit seeking Ganduje’s sack as APC Chairman June 26

    Court to hear suit seeking Ganduje’s sack as APC Chairman June 26

    Hearing
    By Taiye Agbaje

    Abuja, June 13, 2024 (NAN) A Federal High Court, Abuja, on Thursday, fixed June to hear a suit seeking the removal of the National Chairman, All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr Abdullahi Ganduje.

    Justice Inyang Ekwo fixed the date after the plaintiff’s lawyer, Benjamin Davou, sought the leave of the court to allow time to reply to Ganduje’s preliminary objection.

    The plaintiff; the North Central APC Forum, led by Saleh Zazzaga, is in the suit marked: FHC/ABJ/CS/599/2024 querying the propriety of Ganduje’s appointment as the Chairman of the APC when he is not from the North Central geo-political zone.

    Listed as defendants in the case are Ganduje, the APC and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

    When the case was called on Thursday, Davou said although the suit was slated for hearing, it would not be possible because Ganduje’s lawyer, Raymond Asikeni, just served him the notice of preliminary objection and their counter affidavit.

    Davou promised to file his reply to the two sets of documents filed by Ganduje first thing on Wednesday after the public holiday.

    Justice Ekwo then adjourned till June 26 for hearing.

    “On the date of hearing, the preliminary objection will be taken together with the substantive suit.

    “The processes of any party that is absent from court shall be deemed as adopted,” he said.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the plaintiff, in the main suit, wants the court to, among others, restrain Ganduje from further parading himself as the chairman of the APC.

    It also prays the court to issue an order directing INEC not to accord recognition to all actions taken by the APC, including congresses, primaries and nominations, since Ganduje became APC Chairman on August 3, 2023.

    The plaintiff is contending among others, that Ganduje is occupying the office of the APC chairman illegally, not being from a state in the North Central geo-political zone.

    The plaintiff’s argued that the National Executive Committee (NEC) of the APC breached the party’s constitution when it appointed Ganduje, from Kano State in the North West geo- political zone to replace Sen. Abdullahi Adamu from Nasarawa State in the North Central geo-political zone.

    It also argued that Ganduje’s appointment to replace Abdullahi was contrary to Article 31.5(1) f of the APC constitution and ultra vires the powers of the NEC of the party.

    The plaintiff added that by the true interpretation of Article 31.5(1) of the APC. Constitution 2013 (as amended), the party is bound to comply with the procedure for the replacement of an officer in the event of a vacancy and ought to appoint a member from Nasarawa State in the North Central geo- political zone into the office of the chairman of the party.

    The plaintiff wants the court to among others, declare that by Article 20(1) of the APC constitution 2013 as amended, Ganduje cannot be appointed as the National Chairman of the party other than through democratic conducted elections and that his current occupation of the office is illegal.

    It equally seeks a declaration that by the provisions of Article 13 of the APC constitution 2013 (as amended), the party’s National Convention is the final authority of the party which has the power to elect or remove national officers of the party including the national chairman of the party.

    The plaintiff also wants a declaration that the party’s NEC lacked the power to appoint any person to the office of the Chairman, among others.(NAN)(www.namnews.ng)
    TOA/SH

    =======
    edited by Sadiya Hamza

  • NDPC, others sign MoU on data protection privacy campaign

    MoU

    By Ijeoma Olorunfemi

    Abuja, June 13, 2024 (NAN) The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) and other stakeholders have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for a national awareness campaign on data protection and privacy.

    The NDPC, National Stakeholders for Data Protection Awareness (NSDPA) and Association of Licensed Data Protection Compliance Organisations of Nigeria (ALDAPCON) signed the MoU in Abuja on Thursday.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the awareness campaign, which will take place across the six geopolitical zones of the country, is aimed at promoting data privacy compliance.

    NDPC’s National Commissioner, Dr Vincent Olatunji, said that the campaign would ensure compliance to data protection regulations and standards.

    Represented by Ms Adanna Isamade, Acting Head, Legal and Enforcement Department, Olatunji said that the collaboration would strengthen the data protection ecosystem.

    “There is need for everyone to remain committed to the terms of reference and assigned duties, with hope to achieve our goals within the stipulated time.

    “The agreement will ensure strategic collaboration between the NSDPA and ALDAPCON and help carry out a national awareness campaign on data protection across Nigeria’s six geo-political zones, and all the 36 states including the FCT.

    “The MoU becomes significant in helping government bodies and private companies who are data controllers to adhere to the provisions of the data protection laws irrespective of their location,’’ he said.

    Chairman of the ALDAPCON, Mr Alvin Anya, said the ultimate beneficiaries of the collaboration were Nigerians who lived and operated within the country’s data protection ecosystem and under the statutory purview of the NDPC.

    He noted that one of the pillars of the strategic roadmap of ALDAPCON included awareness creation.

    According to him, ALDAPCON believes the collaboration with NSDPA will further assist Data Protection Compliance Organisations (DPCOs) in their outreach to states and communities.

    He added that one of the unique tools to be deployed was communicating data privacy in different Nigerian dialects.

    Meanwhile, Mrs Delmwa Gogwim, representative of the NSDPA, said that the MoU would allow for sharing of expertise and knowledge to advance data protection compliance and best practices.

    “The project will raise public awareness about citizens’ rights and the measures they can take to secure their data.

    “This national awareness initiative is a stakeholders’ driven venture whose objectives can only be achieved by support from the ALDAPCON and the NDPC for the good of Nigeria,’’ she said.

    NAN reports that the NSDPA is a body of concerned citizens focused on raising awareness on data protection and its significance to empowerment in the digital economy across all sectors.

    ALDAPCON, licensed by NDPC, is mandated to monitor compliance with the extant data regulations, ensuring that data controllers including all public and private corporate entities that manages citizens’ data do not breach the provisions of the Act.

    The MoU is, therefore, expected to promote and enhance public trust and confidence in data protection practices in Nigeria.

    It will also increase awareness and education on data protection rights and responsibilities among individuals, organisations, improve coordination and consistency in advocating for data protection policies and regulations. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

    NIU/DCO/ADA

    ===========

    Edited by Deborah Coker/Deji Abdulwahab

     

     

     

     

  • Appeal Court sets aside contempt proceedings against EFCC Chairman

    Appeal Court sets aside contempt proceedings against EFCC Chairman

    Contempt

    By Taiye Agbaje/Edith Nwapi

    Abuja, June 13, 2024 (NAN) The Court of Appeal, Abuja, has set aside contempt proceedings initiated by the former Governor of Kogi, Yahaya Bello, against the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.

    Justice Joseph Oyewole set aside the proceedings in a unanimous judgment on Thursday while overruling the respondent’s preliminary objection, citing technicalities.

    The Appeal Court said the trial judge failed to extend the orders of Feb. 9 in its final Judgment of April 17.

    He said the second issue raised by the respondent on the interim order had become an academic exercise.

    The court awarded N1 million cost against the respondent.

    The appellate court had granted an ex-parte motion for stay of contempt proceedings filed against the EFCC’s Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, by ex- Governor Bello.

    The Court of Appeal, presided over by Justice Oyewole, granted the EFCC’s application to serve the processes in the appeal by substituted means on the former governor.

    The court consequently adjourned the hearing of the motion on notice to May 20.

    It would be recalled that the EFCC boss was summoned to appear before the Kogi State High Court in May to show cause why he should not be committed to prison for disobeying its orders.

    But he had appealed the ruling of the trial court and sought a stay of the proceedings of the court.

    The Kogi High Court based its ruling on the premise that the EFCC chair carried out “some acts upon which they (the EFCC) have been restrained” by the court on Feb. 9, pending the hearing and determination of the substantive originating motion.

    It would be recalled that Justice I. A. Jamil, in a ruling on Suit No: HCL/68M/2024 and Motion No: HCL/190M/2024, ordered that “the said act was carried out by the respondent (EFCC) in violation of the order, which was valid and subsisting when they carried out the act.

    The judge held that the EFCC’s act amounted to contempt.

    EFCC operatives had laid siege on the residence of the former governor, as early as 8am on April 17, with a bid to arrest him despite a court order restraining them from taking such action, pending the determination of the originating motion.

    Justice Jamil’s order was based on a motion ex-parte filed by Bello, through his lawyer, M.S. Yusuf, where he prayed the court for an order to issue and serve the respondent (EFCC chairman) with Form 49 Notice to show cause why order of committal should not be made on him.

    The lead judgment at the Appeal Court on Thursday, was delivered by Justice Oyewole, while Justices A.M. Talba and D. Z. Senchi were in agreement.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

    TOA/NEO/SH

    ===========
    edited by Sadiya Hamza

  • Chinese expert urges Africa to leverage exhibitions to reshape continent’s narrative

    Chinese expert urges Africa to leverage exhibitions to reshape continent’s narrative

    Mr Li Xuda, Director of China Cultural Center in Nigeria speaking in Abuja at a photo exhibition titled, “A Renewed Glimpse into Africa: Exhibition of Chinese Artist Works Inspired by their Trip to Africa”.By Sarafina Christopher

    Abuja, June 13, 2024 (NAN) Mr Li Xuda, Director of Chinese cultural centre in Nigeria on Thursday called on Africa to use photo exhibitions to project the continent’s image positively to attract tourists and potential investors.

    Li made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja on the sidelines of a photo exhibition titled,  “A Renewed Glimpse into Africa: Exhibition of Chinese Artist Works Inspired by their Trip to Africa”.

    According to Li, photography engages storytelling through interactive displays that captivate visitors and inspire them to explore the beauty and richness of a country.

    He added that evolving the stories told in and about African culture by distributing accurate and empowering stories is key to reshaping Africa’s narrative and attracting tourists to the region.

    “We believe that exhibitions are valuable in showcasing the diverse cultures, landscapes, and people of Africa in a positive light.

    “Through these photos, we can see the beauty, resilience, and vibrancy of African communities shedding light on their unique traditions, customs, and way of life.

    “Africa is a land of culture with splendid civilisation and abundant natural resources.

    “We also believe that this exhibition will strengthen ties between China and Africa and pave the way for increased tourism and economic opportunities,” he said.

    NAN reports that the photographs were taken by Duan Tiejun, Chairman of Tianjin Culture, Tourism, and Photographers’ Association, among others who visited Senegal, Tanzania, Nigeria, Mauritius, and many other African countries.

    NAN also reports that about 70 students from various schools were in attendance for the photo exhibition. (NAN) (www.nan.ng)

    SAF/YEE
    =======

    (Edited by Emmanuel Yashim)

  • Kaduna:Troops neutralise terrorists’ kingpin, Buharin Yadi, others

    Kaduna: Troops neutralise terrorists’ kingpin, Buharin Yadi, others

    By Muhammad Tijjani

    Kaduna, Jun. 13, 2024(NAN) The Kaduna State Government, said troops of Sector 6, Operation Whirl Punch, have killed a terrorists’ kingpin, Buharin Yadi, along with dozens of his fighters .

    The State Commissioner for  Internal Security and Home Affairs, Mr Samuel Aruwan, made the disclosure in a statement issued on Thursday in  Kaduna.

    Aruwan said, “The infamous terrorist Buharin Yadi, one of the deadliest bandit leaders terrorising northern Nigeria in the last decade, has met his bitter end at the hands of security forces.

    “The troops of Sector 6 Operation Whirl Punch rained down fire on the kingpin known as  Buhari Alhaji Halidu (alias Buharin Yadi) and his cohorts, abruptly terminating their ignominious spell of terror.

    “Halidu was neutralised in a fierce battle with the troops under the coordination of their Commander, General Officer Commanding 1  Division, Nigerian Army, Maj.-Gen. Mayirenso Saraso.

    “This took place around Idasu forest at the boundaries between Giwa Local Government Area(LGA) of Kaduna State and Sabuwa LGA of Katsina State.”

    He said the troops began the covert operation in response to intelligence reports on terrorists’ movement from Samunaka and Saulawa areas of Katsina State.

    “On advancing to Samunaka, the troops found the settlement destroyed and cattle killed, evidence of recent criminal activity by the bandits.

    “A ferocious battle quickly followed, as approaching terrorists were pounded with artillery rounds at Hayin Almajiri, “he said.

    Aruwan said that the troops then fought bravely through an ambush, to attain their objective.

    He said, “Initial assessments indicated that at least 36 bandits were eliminated in the engagement.

    “It was eventually verified that one of those neutralised was Buharin Yadi.”

    He explained that Yadi and his brigands under his command had been unleashing terror on citizens in Kidandan/Galadimawa areas of Giwa LGA.

    He named other areas that had been attacked by the fallen terrorists to include Sabon Birni/Kerawa areas of Igabi LGA, communities nearby Sabuwa LGA of Katsina State, and some parts of Niger and Zamfara.

    Aruwan said Yadi was involved in large-scale cattle rustling, arms trading and drug trafficking.

    “He had led his gang in the pillaging of communities and the slaughter and kidnapping of thousands of citizens in Kaduna and neighboring states.

    “The merciless bandit was also known to have links with other deadly terrorist groups in the Northeast and North-West.

    “The breakthrough brings to an end a manhunt by security forces for this terrorist, which stretched more than five years.

    “The news of his demise spread like wildfire, triggering massive relief and widespread celebrations among locals spanning Kaduna and Katsina States, “he said.

    Aruwan said Gov. Uba Sani has expressed his elation at the development, which he described as a pointer to the bravery, pro-activeness and sheer efficiency of the troops involved.

    He quoted the Governor as commending Saraso for his sterling leadership and lauded the troops for the comprehensive victory.

    Sani reassured the security forces in the state of his unflinching support and the continued collaborative stance of the government

    “Members of the public are hereby informed that some of the terrorists sustained gunshot injuries during the encounter.

    ” Citizens in the general area and beyond are therefore enjoined not to render assistance (medical or otherwise) to individuals carrying  suspicious injuries, but to immediately report such to security agencies, “Aruwan said.

    He said the Kaduna State Security Operations Room was available 24-hour a day to receive reports of this nature on the phone lines: 09034000060 and 08170189999.

    While the Commissioner said that special operations against bandits was continuing in the general area, he urged the citizens to continue to volunteer supportive information to the security forces and the government.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

    TJ/KOO/BRM
    ==================
    Edited by Kevin Okunzuwa/Bashir Rabe Mnai

  • Afreximbank unveils 2024 African Trade, Economic Outlook reports

     

    Report
    By Okeoghene Akubuike
    Abuja, June 13, 2024(NAN) The African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) has unveiled the 2024 edition of its African Trade Report and African Trade and Economic Outlook at its Annual Meetings (AAM) 2024 in Nassau, The Bahamas.

    The African Trade and Economic Outlook Report forecasts that African economies will grow on average by 3.8 per cent in 2024.

    The report, titled ‘A Resilient Africa: Delivering Growth in a Turbulent World,’ provides an analysis of the economic environment, trade patterns, debt scenarios, and future projections for African economies.”

    A look at the report which was unveiled on Wednesday showed it is slightly ahead of the predicted global growth of 3.2 per cent prior to an increase of 4 per cent in 2025.

    Presenting the reports, Dr Yemi Kale, Afreximbank’s Group Chief Economist and Managing Director of Research and International Cooperation, said: “ Ongoing global challenges undermined the performance of Africa’s trade, which contracted by 6.3 per cent in 2023 after expanding by 15.9 per cent in 2022, while intra-African trade expanded by 3.2 per cent over the same period.

    “This performance is reflective of the resilience of the African economy and the potential impact of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) single market for the continent as a tool to protect them from global shocks.

    “Our analysis in the report also revealed large untapped potential in intra-African trade, especially concerning machinery, electricity, motor vehicles, and food products.”

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the documents reveal that African economies faced several downside risks, including increasing levels of sovereign debt and associated sustainability risks

    Others were excessive exposure to adverse terms-of-trade shocks, escalating geopolitical tensions in some cases, and volatile domestic political environments in certain African countries and high commodity prices and inflationary pressures, and potential food insecurity”

    Also, in a statement, Vincent Musumba,Manager, Communications and Events (Media Relations), Afreximbank , said most macroeconomic indicators were expected to improve in 2024 and 2025.

    “Growth in the continent is projected to be higher than the global average, and although inflation is currently high, it is expected to decrease, with this downward trend continuing into 2025.”

    Musumba, on the African Trade Report 2024 titled “Climate Implications of the AfCFTA Implementation”, he quoted Kale as saying, “ the report concludes that the AfCFTA offers a path to achieving the developmental goals of African nations while also addressing climate change concerns.”

    Kale said that while the benefits of the AfCFTA could be seen, the debate on its impact on climate change was still ongoing.

    “One group believes that increased urbanisation and industrialisation associated with the AfCFTA will worsen carbon emissions.

    “The second group believes that by emphasising intra-African trade and reducing extra-African trade, carbon emissions will be eliminated through shorter shipping distances.”

    Overall, the report stated that optimising the AfCFTA could result in potential gains through increased intra-African trade and investment.

    “This will create economic prosperity and fulfil the vision of the founding fathers.”((NAN)(www. nannews.ng)

    OKE/VIV

    =====

    Edited by Vivian Ihechu

  • Eid-el- Kabir: NSCDC deploys 1000 personnel in Ondo

    Eid-el-Kabir: NSCDC deploys 1000 personnel in Ondo

    Deployment
    By Muftau Ogunyemi
    Akure, June 13, 2024 (NAN) The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Ondo State has deployed 1,000 operatives ahead of the forthcoming Eid-el-Kabir celebration in the state.

    Mr Ibiloye Oluyemi, the State Commandant of NSCDC, made this known while addressing newsmen on Thursday in Akure.

    Ibiloye explained that the operational order for the celebration period had been communicated to the eight area commanders and the 36 divisional officers covering the 18 local government areas in the state.

    According to him, the deployment will also give special attention to the protection of critical national assets and infrastructure.

    “The Rapid Response Squad, Tactical Team, and the Counter-Terrorism Unit (CTU) will patrol black spots, vulnerable locations, recreational centres, and other flashpoints to nip in the bud any criminal intention.

    “Operatives from the female squad, anti-vandal unit, agro rangers, operations department, and intelligence officers will coordinate and watchfully protect lives and property before, during, and after the Salah celebration,” he said.

    The commandant assured residents that the command would be “civil and professional in the discharge of the national assignment under its watch.”

    He also appealed to the people of the state to be security conscious and law-abiding.

    “Report any suspicious movement of persons or consignment to the security agencies around you. I wish all Muslim faithful a blessed Salah Celebration,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

    OMA/AYO/IKU
    Edited by Ayodeji Alabi/Tayo Ikujuni

  • Customs intercepts 26,950 litres of smuggled PMS

     

    Comptroller Hussein Ejibunu addressing the media

     

    Smuggling

    By Abiodun Lawal

    Abeokuta, June 13, 2024 (NAN) The Nigeria Customs Service (NSC)
    said it has seized 26,950 litres of petroleum products worth N19 million being smuggled out of the country into Republic of Benin.

    The National Coordinator, Operation Whirlwind of the NSC, Mr Hussein Ejibunu, disclosed this on Thursday at a news conference held at the command’s headquarters in Abeokuta.

    He said that the petroleum products which consisted of 978 kegs of 25 litres totaling 26,950 litres was impounded in Zone A of the NCS consisting of Lagos and Ogun.

    Ejibunu said the special squad was set up few weeks ago by the Controller-General of NCS, Bashir Adeniyi, to complement efforts aimed at cracking down on criminals smuggling petroleum products outside the country.

     

    The customs officer added that the activities of the smugglers usually aid the artificial scarcity of petroleum products in the country forcing the prices to go up for as much as N900 per litre.

    He said: “In just about two weeks of operation, Operation Whirlwind team, Zone A axis, intercepted 26,950 litres of premium motor spirit worth N19 million.

    “121 kegs of PMS of 25 litres equivalent to 3,025 litres was intercepted at Oyinkansola Global Concept along Badagry/Seme road in Lagos State on May 31.

     

    “77 drums of PMS (616 kegs of 25 litres) equivalent to 15, 400 litres was seized on June 7 at Seayab Petroleum along Imeko/Obada road in Ogun state.

    “The means of conveyance is a truck with the registration number 95D4244D,” he said.

    Ejibunu stated further that another 100 kegs of PMS of 25 litres equivalent to 2,500 litres was impounded on June 8 along Owode/Atan road in Ogun.

    “While an equivalent of 6,025 litres consisting of 141 kegs of 25 litres was seized at Julankoly Oil and Gas along Owode-Ilaro Road,’’ he said.

    Ejibunu said that the petrol stations involved in the criminal activities had been sealed while their owners would be prosecuted.

     He said the menace posed by the unpatriotic act of smugglers on the Nigerian economy could not be overemphasised, hence the need for synergy with other relevant agencies to win the fight against the saboteurs.

    He warned all those who were into criminal acts of sabotaging the country’s economy to either have a change of heart or get dealt with according to the laws.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

    LKA/DE/FAA

    ======

    Edited by Dorcas Jonah/Folasade Adeniran

     

  • Whitney: Chrisland failed to take compulsory risk assessment test – Witness

    Examination
    By Sandra Umeh
    Ikeja, June 13, 2024 (NAN) The Lagos State Safety Commission has told a Lagos High Court Ikeja that the management of Chrisland Schools, Opebi, failed to take a compulsory risk assessment test of the commission.
    Mr Wahab Ariyo, a safety officer with the commission, disclosed this at the resumed trial of the Chrisland Schools Opebi and four of its staff members on Thursday.
    Ariyo testified as the fourth witness for the prosecution before Justice Oyindamola Ogala.
    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Lagos State Government on March 31, 2023, charged Chrisland Schools Ltd. Opebi, its principal and vice principal and two others with the killing of Whitney.
    Those charged alongside the school are Ademoye Adewale (a cotton candy vendor), Kuku Fatai, Belinda Amao (Principal) and Victoria Nwatu.
    The defendants are standing trial for allegedly causing the death of  a 12-year-old student, Whitney Adediran, during the school’s inter-house sports competition.
    According to the prosecution, the alleged offences violate Sections 224 and 251 of the Criminal Laws of Lagos State 2015.
    Trial had since begun in the case with the prosecution still leading witnesses in evidence.
    When the case was called on Thursday, the Lagos State Director of Public Prosecution (DPP), Dr Babajide Martins, called his fourth witness (Ariyo).
    Ariyo introduced himself as an engineer and safety officer with the Lagos State Safety Commission.
    He told the court that his duty in the office involved responding to emergencies in the state, investigating accidents and incidents to uncover the roots and immediate causes.
    In relation to the instant charge, the witness told the court that the commission conducted investigations to ascertain the root cause of the fatality and to make recommendations to avoid further occurrence.
    According to Ariyo, it is important to obtain Event Safety Permit for schools and public events having 250 guests.
    He said the permit can be obtained by visiting the commission’s website to register the event.
    Ariyo added that after this, the commission gets notified in its office, while an officer would be sent from the Events Department to the facility, to conduct basic assessments.
    The witness told the court that afterwards the commission would give the requirements of the things to put in place, to avoid accident or emergency at such events.
    “Once we carryout risk assessment and all requirements are met, we then issue a permit,” he said
    According to him, on the day of the event, the commission sends out marshals from its office to ensure that all safety conditions are in place.
    The witness told the court that for events with over 250 guests, there were further protocols such as ensuring availability of ambulance, first aiders and fire fighting equipments.
    On the Chrisland School fatality, he told the court that the commission became aware on Feb. 13, 2023,  and visited the scene at the Agege Stadium.
    He explained that the visit was to ascertain what went wrong, adding that on arrival, they discovered that most of the evidences had been tampered with.
    Speaking further, he noted that on account of this, the team took photos and interrogated the school management and those who witnessed the event.
    The witness said that fortunately for the team, there was another school hosting its inter-house sports at the same Agege stadium.
    He added that the development presented  an opportunity to have a feedback of what happened, as there were vendors at the scene.
    On his findings at the scene he said, the school failed to obtain event permit from the Lagos Safety Commission adding that  no risk assessment was conducted.
    He added that there was no ambulance, poor emergency management system, poor emergency communication and no retainership hospital close to the venue.
    He told the court that a second visit made to the scene was solely done by the commission and it was to ascertain the claim by the school that the candy machine was not close to the event scene.
    The witness said that their second visit showed that the candy machine was close to the scene.
    “We also discovered that no restrictions was made to the vendors using power generating sets and as a result, there was the possibility of straying wires dangling around.
    “So, that confirmed our initial findings that no risk assessment was done,” he said
    The witness told the court that if same had been done earlier, all the safety infractions would have been noticed and recommendations made to close the gaps.
    He told the court that findings revealed that a school bus was used instead of an ambulance,  which should have at least three certified nurses.
    “We also noticed that the school had only one first aider, which is the school nurse and this is not acceptable. There was also no safety marshal,” he said.
    At this point, the DPP sought an adjournment to enable him tender Certified True Copies of some documents.
    The trial will resume on July 1. (NAN)
    UNS/CCN/JNC
    =============
    Edited by Chinyere Nwachukwu/Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma