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Brother, sister bag 2 years for hacking into email account to steal woman’s N280, 000

NAN-H-10
Siblings
By Chinyere Omeire
Lagos,  Oct.  11, 2016 (NAN) Two siblings — Zememoi and Nakhuagb Momoh — who hacked into an email account and forged a letter to steal N280, 000 from a woman,  are to spend the next one year in a Lagos prison, a court ruled on Tuesday.

An Igbosere Magistrates’ Court which handed down the verdict, said Zememoi (woman) 27, and Nakhuagb, 22, who reside at House 2B, Block 2, Millennium Estate,  Gbagada,  Lagos,were found guilty of the offences.

The one year imprisonment each is without an option of fine.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the accused were arraigned for conspiracy, forgery and stealing.

The Magistrate,  Mrs A.  T. Omoyele,  said the one year imprisonment on each count given  Zememoi and Nakhuagb  would run concurrently.

Omeyele said the sentence would take effect from the time the judgement was delivered.

“Zememoi will serve her sentence at Kirikiri Prisons, while Nakhuagb will serve out his term at Ikoyi Prisons.”

Earlier, the Prosecutor, Sgt. Cyriacus Osuji, had told the court that the accused committed the offences on March 1, 2010 at 11.00 a.m. at No. 10, Diamond Bank Road, Ikeja, Lagos.

He said  the duo conspired and stole N280, 000, belonging to Mrs Kehinde Olaniyan.

According to him, the accused hacked into the email account of Olaniyan’s friend  and forged a letter purported to have emanated from her friend.

“They asked Olaniyan to pay N280, 000 into their account and it was paid into the account at Diamond Bank,” Osuji said.

The  offences contravened Sections 390, 471 and 516 of the Criminal Code of Lagos State, 2003.

The brother and sister had at their arraignment on March 5, 2010, pleaded not guilty to the charges and were granted bail. (NAN)
OCC/ENN/DA
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Controlled by Dele Akinsola & edited by Edwin Nwachukwu

NAN-H-59
Education
By Muhammad Nasir Bello/Hauwa Mohd Gold
Sokoto, Oct. 11, 2016 (NAN) The Sokoto State Government said it had disbursed N5.7 million to support the education of the children of physically-challenged persons in the state from primary to tertiary level.
The state Commissioner for Social Welfare and Culture, Alhaji Sirajo Gatawa, disclosed this at a ministerial press briefing in Sokoto on Tuesday.
According to him, the disbursement was sequel to the state government’s declaration of emergency in the education sector.
”This is meant to support the education of their children from primary up to tertiary level,” Gatawa said.
The commissioner also said that the government spent more than N27 million on the provision of clothing materials and food items for the physically-challenged during the last Eid-el-Fitr.
The briefing was jointly organized by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (Sokoto chapter) and the state Ministry of Information. (NAN)
MNB/MKH/IS/WOJ
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(Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz and controlled by Wale Ojetimi)

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Welfare
Kafanchan (Kaduna), Oct. 11, 2016 (NAN) The Association of Older Persons in Kafanchan, Jema’a Local Government Area of Kaduna State, has urged the state government to introduce a welfare scheme to enhance living standard of the elderly.

Mrs Esther Victor, spokesperson for the association, made the plea on Tuesday at a programme commemorating the 2016 International Day for Older Persons in Kafanchan.

It was organised by the association, in collaboration with a Kafanchan-based NGO, Fanstwan Foundation.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that United Nations had declared every Oct.1 as the International Day for the Older Persons.

Victor said that government at all levels should consider the scheme as it was the practice in developed countries to address the challenges facing the aged in our society.

“It is our desire to see a structure that will support older persons with stipends enough for them to feed and access healthcare when the need arises,” she said.

Victor also urged the state government to ensure prompt payment of pension allowances, especially to individuals who had laboured for the overall development of the country.

Also, Dr Katuka Bege, the Interim Chairman of Jema’a LGA, said that the state government was not unaware of its responsibilities toward the older persons.

In his remarks, the Emir of Jema’a, Alhaji Muhammad Isa Muhammad, urged the public to imbibe religious and traditional culture of caring for the aged in the society.

The emir was represented by the Chief Imam of Kafanchan, Alhaji Kabir Kassim at the occasion. (NAN)
MGK/ORO/GOK
(Edited by Razak Owolabi/controlled by Olagoke Olatoye)

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Suspension
By Bababusu Mohammed
Lafia, Oct. 11, 2016 (NAN) The Nasarawa House of Assembly on Tuesday recalled six suspended members of the house from their six-month-old suspension.

The Speaker of the house, Alhaji Ibrahim Balarabe-Abdullahi, announced the lifting of the suspension after the submission of the report of the assembly’s ad hoc committee that investigated the suspended members.

The report was submitted by Alhaji Mohammed Alkali (PDP-Lafia North) on the floor of the house.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that on April 4, the house suspended Kassim Mohammed-Kassim (APC-Akwanga South), Murtala Sodangi (APC-Nasarawa Central), Mohammed Okpoku(APC-Udege/ Loko) and Musa Ali(APC-Keffi East).

Others were Makpa Malla (APC-Wamba) and Abubakar Kana (APC-Kokona West).

The lawmakers were suspended over allegations of bribery and corruption they levelled against the other members of the house.

The Speaker said: “If we recall, on April 4, 2016, a misunderstanding ensued between the members of the house which led to the suspension of six of our members over allegation of bribery and corruption against the house.

“On Aug.16, an ad hoc investigation committee called for a round table discussion with the six suspended members in which the six suspended members unanimously apologised to the committee.

“The ad hoc committee resolved and recommended as follows that to err is human and to forgive is divine, having realised their misgivings and apologised.

“The house should accept their apologies in the spirit of legislative brotherhood and exercise its plenary powers in their favour,’’ he said.

Balarabe-Abdullahi said the committee report recommended that all the allowances of the suspended lawmakers be paid to them.

The Majority Leader and member representing Awe North on the platform of APC, Tanko Tunga, moved the motion for the lifting of the suspension.

The Minority Leader and member representing Lafia North, Mohammed Ibrahim-Alkali, seconded the motion for the lifting of the suspension.

The house unanimously agreed that the suspended lawmakers return back to the house in the spirit of legislative brotherhood.

The speaker then directed the clerk of the house to communicate the resolution of the house directing the suspended lawmakers to resume on Oct. 17.

NAN reports that the house also confirmed Hajiya Zainab Ahmed, the former Secretary to the State Government as member of the Nasarawa Civil Service Commission. (NAN)
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(Edited by Cecilia Odey and controlled by Mufutau Ojo)

NAN-H-47

Investigation

By Abiemwense Moru

Abuja, Oct. 11, 2016 (NAN) The House of Representatives on Tuesday, resolved to set up an ad hoc committee to investigate the Department of State Service (DSS) over arrest of seven judges in some states across the country.

This followed a motion brought under Matters of Urgent National Importance by Rep. Kingsley Chinda (PDP-Rivers), which was unanimously adopted by members through a voice vote.

Chinda had in the motion expressed concern over the action of the arrest of the judges by the security operatives, saying that it was an invasion and a violation of the law.

He argued that section 53 sub-section 1 of the 1999 Constitution as amended clearly stated the principles of separation powers.

He recalled similar actions by the DSS in previous times, which had brought to question the statutory functions of the DSS.

The lawmaker said that if the activities of the security agency were not checked, the nation’s democracy may be tempered with.

According to him, the essence of the investigation which I am urging the house to carry out is to state clearly where the DSS derives its powers to prosecute on matters bordering on corruption.

One member of the house, Rep. Mojeed Alabi (APC-Osun), challenged the motion but was ruled out of order by the Speaker, Mr Yakubu Dogara, who stated clearly that the matter was important and should be treated urgently.

The house, therefore, announced that the ad hoc committee would be constituted immediately to investigate the matter and report back within six weeks. (NAN)

AMM/OPI/OPI

Edited by Olisa Ifeajika

NAN-HE-18
Loan
By Kingsley Okoye

Abuja, Oct. 11,2016 (NAN) The Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry Limited (ACCI) has advised the Federal Government  to be cautious  of the conditions  inherent in accessing loans  from multi-lateral institutions.

The President of ACCI, Mr Tony Ejinkeonye, gave the advice in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja on Tuesday.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that Christine Largarde, Managing Director of IMF, at the 2016 IMF/World Bank meeting announced that IMF had introduced zero interest rates on all concessional facilities till 2018.

NAN also recalls that the Federal Government has been making efforts to borrow from multilateral organisations, such as IMF, to fund capital projects.

Ejinkeonye said in spite of Nigeria’s debt profile borrowing from multi-lateral institution was not a bad option, especially if the loan was designed to executive capital projects.

He, however, cautioned that efforts must be made to put into consideration the conditions associated with accessing the loan from international financial agencies.

“Before now, government has already positioned itself to borrow from multi-lateral institutions like IMF to fund capital projects in the country.

“And Nigeria’s debt profile is one of the lowest compared to some countries of the World,“ Ejinkeonye said.

He said it was cheery news that IMF would lend to nations at zero interest rate, noting that borrowing to fund capital projects was capable of bridging infrastructure gap in the country.

He said what mattered was the application of prudent measures in the allocation of  the fund for the purpose it was intended.

“What really matters is financial discipline required in the administration of the fund in the implementation of the projects for which the loan is taken.

“ Government must ensure due process and transparency and also ensure that finances are channelled to critical sectors that will promote economic growth and development for the country and her citizens“.

He said ACCI had advised government at different fora on the possible ways to rescue the country from its current economic challenges.

According to him, some of the measures earlier advocated by the chamber  include the disposal of some government assets and borrowing from multilateral institution. (NAN)

KC/GOM/JCE
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Edited by Gregory Mmaduakolam/Chukwudi Ekezie

Women hail Reps for proposing free antenatal services

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Antenatal
By Lydia Ngwakwe

Lagos, Oct. 11, 2016 (NAN) A cross section of women in Lagos on Tuesday commended members of the House of Representatives for planning to make antenatal services free and accessible.

Some of the mothers, who spoke in separate interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), lauded the initiative, while others suggested that government should ensure free medical services for women in all aspect.

It would be recalled that the House of Representatives on Oct. 6, called on government at all levels to make qualitative ante-natal services free and accessible.

The call followed a motion by Rep. Aishatu Dukku (APC-Gombe) on the need to address high rate of maternal mortality in the country.

Dukku expressed worries over claims that Nigeria was the next country after India with the highest maternal mortality rate in the world.

Mrs Chinyere Jack, a banker, said the initiative by the lawmaker was good.

“It is a good idea because it will allow every mother the opportunity to access healthcare services.

“At this time of recession, government needs to take good care of women because they are always at the receiving end of everything whether good or bad,’’ Jack said.

Mrs Ndidi Iheme, a fashion designer, also said the idea was pleasant.

“It is not a bad thing although some government hospitals have been rendering free services, but not in all cases.

“Government should compel private hospitals to also do the same; their charges for antenatal ranges between N15, 000 and N20,000,’’ Iheme said.

Mrs Chinwe Amos, a petty trader, said it was a good development.

“It is a good development but government needs to do something beyond just making antenatal services free.

“Mothers and in fact every woman needs to be paid a stipend at the end of every month whether married or unmarried, we should be appreciated,’’ Amos said.

Mrs Nta Ita, a human resource officer, also urged government to make education free for women.

“Education for women should be free because even when the lawmakers plan eventually comes to fruition some women will still not see the need to attend.

“This will also help to prevent child death,’’ Ita said. (NAN)
LED/FF/MST
Edited by Fela Fashoro/Muhammad Suleiman Tola

NAN-H-51
Prayer
By Suleiman Shehu
Oyo (Oyo State), Oct. 11, 2016 (NAN) The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, on Tuesday prayed for the quick resuscitation of the country’s economy and an end to the incidence of kidnapping in the country.

Adeyemi spoke in Oyo during the courtesy visit of the Olubadan of Ibadan land, Oba Saliu Adetunji, and his chiefs to the Alaafin of Oyo in his palace.

The News Agency of  Nigeria (NAN) reports that the visit was the first formal visit by the Olubadan to the Oyo monarch since his installation on March 11.

The Alaafin also urged the Boko Haram sect to refrain from its acts of terror , saying this was the only way the country could move forward.

Adeyemi, who called for cordial relationship between the Yoruba speaking states, charged them to be proud of their cultural heritage.

The Alaafin described the Olubadan as a dedicated and accommodating person, saying both had been friends before the installation.

Adeyemi also prayed for long life for the Olubadan as well as peace in the state and the country.

Earlier in his remarks, Adetunji had described Adeyemi as a custodian of Yoruba culture.

He said he was in Oyo to express appreciation to  the Alaafin for his contribution during his coronation.

Adetunji prayed for the sustenance of the good relationship between him and the Alaafin.

The News Agency of Nigeria(NAN) reports that highlights of the occasion included cultural display. (NAN)
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(Edited by Cecilia Odey and controlled by Mufutau Ojo)

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Development
By Kola Adeyemi
Lokoja, Oct. 11, 2016 ( NAN) The Kogi Commissioner for Finance, Alhaji Idris Asiwaju-Asiru, on Tuesday assured Okun Yoruba speaking people of the state of government’s commitment to develop the area after years of neglect.

Asiwaju-Asiru, made the assertion on Tuesday at Isanlu, headquarters of Yagba East Local Government, at a reception organised for him by his kinsmen.

The commissioner said that roads rehabilitation, provision of water and health facilities were some of government’s plans for Okunland.

He said that Gov. Yahaya Bello was aware of the difficulty faced by the people in accessing social facilities and had decided to intervene by revitalising some old facilities and providing new ones.

Asiwaju-Asiru described the emergence of Bello as governor of the state as an answer to the sincere prayers of patriotic people.

According to him, Bello is a visionary leader that will make Kogi fulfill her potential and make Okunland to witness rapid infrastructure development.

“Gov. Yahaya Bello is God-send to wipe our tears in Kogi. Our years of neglect in Okunland are over,’’ he said.

Asiwaju-Asiru commended the governor for making the state a safe place to live in and work, saying that armed robbery and kidnapping had reduced greatly in the past eight months.

He said the hydra-headed problem of ghost workers which had kept the state in bondage for years had been solved with the political will exhibited by Bello and the members of his cabinet.

The commissioner thanked the governor for finding him and other Okun indigenes worthy of appointment as commissioners, special advisers and senior special advisers.

He added that they would reciprocate the gesture by putting in their best in the service of the people.

He appealed to aggrieved politicians in the area to bury their differences and join hands with the administration to move the state forward. (NAN)
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(Edited and Controlled by Peter Ejiofor)

Paralympic team Capt laments presence of unauthorized officials at games

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Officials

By Ehigimator Igbaugba

Benin, Oct 11, 2016 (NAN) Friday Aibangbe, captain of team Nigeria to the Rio 2016 Paralympic Games on Tuesday lamented attendance of games and competitions by officials who have no business being there.

Aibangbe told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Benin that the Federal Government should concentrate more on athletes in future games and competitions.

Aibangbe said that officials, who had no business being in Rio, were thrice more than the 23 athletes and six officials that represented the country at the games.

The team captain stressed that money that would have been expended on the athletes for better productivity, were wasted on these officials.

Aibangbe said that travelling arrangements to the Rio Games were not properly done, because the blind and those on wheel chairs had to transit from one country to the other en route Rio.

“We passed through difficulties with the travelling arrangements. It wasn’t the best for the Paralympics, especially the blind and those on wheel chairs among us.

“We ought to have been given a special travelling arrangement as disabled athletes. The arrangement made for Rio was poor, this accounted for the reason why we couldn’t get to the games early enough,” he stated.

Aibanbe, a discus thrower, said the athletes performed well at the games because they camped for four months.

Nigeria placed 17 at the end of the Games with 12 medals, 8 Gold, 3 Silver and 1 Bronze.(NAN)

ESI/EAL/MEMO

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Edited by Ekemini Ladejobi/Controlled by Mike Mbonye