Landmark

The Citizens Advocacy Against Corruption (CAAC) has raised an alarm over an alleged plot by former members of the Rivers State Assembly to compromise the judiciary. At a press conference in Abuja, the group claimed that these political actors are attempting to buy court rulings and undermine the confidence of citizens in the judiciary. The CAAC specifically highlighted the transfer of cases challenging the defection of the 25 former members of the state assembly from the People's Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) from Federal High Court 4, Port Harcourt, to Court Two, presided over by Justice E. O. Obele. The group expressed concerns that the transfer may be a strategy to delay the cases and allow the former lawmakers to continue parading as lawmakers, potentially leading to a crisis in Rivers State. They also fear that the transfer may be seen as an attempt to shop for a judge or court that will provide a favorable ruling. The group urged the Chief Just...

By Goodluck Olorunfemi In the complex and dynamic landscape of Nigerian politics, few individuals have made a profound impact and exhibited transformative leadership like Hon. Leke Abejide, the distinguished representative of the Yagba East/West/Mopamuro constituency in the 10th National Assembly. A retrospective analysis of his journey to the 9th Assembly reveals a remarkable display of courage and dedication, as he chose to affiliate with the African Democratic Congress (ADC), a relatively obscure political party at the time. This bold decision underscored his unwavering commitment to serving his constituents, despite formidable political odds. Abejide's path to the green chamber was fraught with challenges, as he faced stiff competition from two dominant political parties, the PDP and APC. Nevertheless, driven by the dire socioeconomic circumstances prevalent in Yagbaland, he remained resolute in his pursuit, aligning himself with the ADC to amplify the voices, concerns, and asp...

A Lagos High Court, sitting in Ikeja has granted a Pre-Emptive Order restraining alleged cyber-criminals who sought to defraud SportyBet from peddling or publishing, or continuing to broadcast any narratives, writeups and or any adverse publicity on social media platforms, the allegation of restrictions placed on their user accounts as a result of a potential cyber-crime offence currently being investigated by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Justice D.T Olatokun gave the order upon reading a 32-paragraph affidavit deposed to by Beulah Akingbelu, the legal officer of the applicant, and after hearing Dr. Kemi Pinheiro SAN, appearing with Bolu Agbaje Akadri, and Benita Morka for the applicant. Listed as defendants in the suit marked lD/5719MJR/2024 are, Obinna George Unegbu, Uchenna Ofurum, Ifenna Moneke, Busola Olamide Aina, and Adedamola Oluwaseun Okunlola, suing them as themselves and as representatives of the 42 SportyBet users whose name appear on the schedule of...

By Lukmon Akintola One thing that is consistent with the prophetic ministry of Primate Babatunde Elijah Ayodele is that his prophecies often come to pass. And when his prophecies fail to come to pass, the man of God is happy, especially when it has to do with those that are tagged 'Bad Prophecies '. This is because those who would have suffered the effect  of the negative prophecies would no longer have to worry about such a plight. Over the years, politicians, public servants and even high-placed personalities have all confirmed the accuracy of the man of God's prophecy. Indeed, one of the biggest pains of the recently deceased President of Iran, Ebrahim Raisil might be that he never had an encounter with Primate Ayodele or saw a video published on 5th of November 2023, where Primate Ayodele stated that the world would lose a prominent president in 2024. Had Raisil seen the video, maybe he would have been alive today. Although the message was there for all, Raisil never sa...

SportyTV continues its unstoppable growth in Africa, earning high praise from former World Cup champion and ex-Real Madrid player, Christian Karembeu during a live broadcast of Euro 2024 from Germany. Karembeu highlighted SportyTV’s role as an African operator offering premium service in one of the most prestigious competitions in the world. As the leading free-to-air premium sports TV channel in Nigeria and Ghana, SportyTV is making waves across the continent by providing unprecedented access to this prestigious football tournament as the official right holder. The significance of this milestone was highlighted during the group stage match between France and Poland, which ended in a1-1 draw.The match, broadcasted live from SignalIduna Park in Dortmund, featured Karembeu, who spoke to SportyTV reporter, Kweku Afar. Expressing his gratitude and emphasizng the importance of this coverage for Africa, Karembeu said, "Thank you for being here in Europe, because Africa deserves to be he...

By Okanga Agila The 10th National Assembly will be etched in the annals of Nigeria's legislative history as a paradigm of transparency, inclusivity, and fiscal responsibility, and Hon. Kabir Bichi's stewardship as the Chairman of the House Committee on Appropriations was the linchpin of this transformative era. His visionary leadership was instrumental in effecting a paradigm shift in the budgetary process, cultivating a culture of public engagement in legislative affairs, and fostering an unprecedented level of accountability and transparency. Throughout his tenure, Hon. Bichi demonstrated a great commitment to his dual roles as Chairman of the House Committee on Appropriations and representative of the good people of Bichi Federal Constituency. His dedication to the welfare of his constituents and his unflinching resolve to ensure that the legislative process was transparent, inclusive, and fiscally responsible have been truly exemplary, leaving an indelible mark on the legis...

   The Association of Nigerian Professionals in Europe (ANPE) has strongly condemned the use of weapons of mass destruction, including dynamites and explosives, by individuals loyal to former Rivers State governor Nyesom Wike, to terrorise the people of the state. In a statement on Wednesday, ANPE President Dr. Reginald Agamah expressed shock and perturbation at the recent events in the state, describing the actions of Wike and his allies as "egregious and violent" and "utterly reprehensible". "We unequivocally denounce these actions in the strongest terms possible as terrorism has no place in a democracy," Dr. Agamah said. "The lives of our fellow citizens surpass their being used as bargaining chips in a desperate power grab by Mr. Wike and his allies." The association demanded that Wike instruct his loyalists to halt their destructive behaviour and refrain from terrorist actions that may harm innocent citizens. They also urged law enforcement ...

By Philip Agbese In a groundbreaking development poised to transform the landscape of law enforcement in Nigeria, the visionary Hon. Makki Abubakar Yalleman has championed the introduction of the Police Act Amendment Bill to the National Assembly. This legislative milestone seeks to address the longstanding inadequacies of the existing Police Act, which has been in force since 2004. The amended legislation aims to revolutionize police operations by enhancing accountability, modernizing policing methods, and fostering a more harmonious relationship between law enforcement agencies and the communities they serve. By doing so, it will significantly bolster public trust, improve crime prevention and response strategies, and ultimately contribute to a safer and more secure Nigeria. This landmark legislation represents a critical step towards a nation where law enforcement officers are not only enforcers of the law but also trusted guardians of our communities, dedicated to protecting and se...

The Rivers Christian Youth Vanguard (RCYV) has strongly condemned the explosion that occurred during a protest by the pro-Wike group in Port Harcourt on Tuesday, resulting in the tragic death of a protester. The group also denounced the actions of the protesters and the victim, who died while attempting to detonate the dynamite, as "barbaric, insane, and a heinous crime against humanity and themselves." In a statement signed by Rev. Sunday Thomas, President of RCYV, the group urged the Federal Government to take immediate action and arrest the protesters, charging them with acts of terrorism. The statement emphasised that the protesters' actions have caused widespread disturbance and chaos in Port Harcourt City, leaving residents in a state of fear and panic. "The Rivers Christian Youth Vanguard (RCYV) is appalled by the dynamite explosion that resulted in the death of a middle-aged protester during a march by the pro-Wike group in Port Harcourt on Tuesday," the...

The Afenifere Youth Progressive Front (AYPF) has strongly condemned the dynamite explosion that occurred among the pro-Wike protesters in Port Harcourt, Rivers State on Tuesday. The group expressed concern that the purported protest, which was organised by top political leaders from Obio/Akpor to show solidarity for the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, turned violent when one of the protesters died while attempting to detonate a dynamite, causing increased tension in the state. In a statement signed by its President, Comrade Adelowo Rotimi Johnson, AYPF stated that the actions of the pro-Wike protesters were "completely unacceptable." Johnson described the act as "terrorism and an extreme form of political expression." He said the incident is a stark reminder of the dangerous trajectory that politics has taken in Nigeria. Johnson urged the Federal Government to immediately distance itself from "this wicked and callous behaviour by rascals" pretending to be Presi...

The Federal Government has taken proactive measures to prevent the further spread of cholera in the country, the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Professor Joseph Utsev has said.  Speaking at the 5th Lagos State International Water Conference, Professor Utsev said the ministry has reactivated its laboratories across the six geopolitical zones, embarked on massive sensitization campaigns, and emphasized the importance of personal hygiene, proper water treatment, and cooking of food and vegetables. He also urged state governors, traditional and religious leaders to scale up campaigns against open defecation and build more decent toilets to achieve an open defecation-free target by next year. The minister's remarks come as Nigeria grapples with a cholera outbreak that has affected several states, with Lagos being one of the most affected. Despite efforts by the Lagos State Government to address water needs, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu acknowledged a huge gap in achieving ac...

The Kano Royal Elites (KRE) has urged the Appeal Court not to fall for the antics of the state government in the Kano Emirates case.  In a statement signed by its President, Alhaji Ibrahim Yahuza Idris, the group warned that the state government would go as low as intimidate judges to rule in their favour.  Idris also raised alarm about the government's penchant for disobeying court orders as a clear indication of their disdain for the judiciary and their desire to perpetuate impunity. The group, however, urged the Court of Appeal judges to be brave in the face of intimidation and blackmail. "We are compelled to address the recent developments in the legal battle surrounding the Emir of Kano. The Federal High Court in Kano's decision to nullify the reinstatement of Muhammad Sanusi II as the 16th Emir of Kano is a victory for justice and the rule of law. "The court's ruling is a testament to the independence and integrity of the judiciary, and we commend the Honora...

The Coalition of Southern Advocates for Peace (CSAP) has called on Nigerians to hold the former local government chairmen of Rivers State responsible should there be a breakdown of law and order in the state.  The President of the group, Joseph Asitogha, gave the notice after the ex-chairmen backed by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike staged a protest across 21 local government areas, defying police advisory.  The protesters, carrying anti-Siminalayi Fubara placards, marched through the streets, causing a stir in the state. Dr. Samuel Nwanosike, former chairman of Ikwerre LGA, led the protest, claiming he was still the duly elected chairman. "I am still serving this council. Today I have five months and 25 days remaining in office by the laws made by Martins Amaewhule-led House of Assembly," he said. Similarly, Barr. George Ariolu and Onengiyeofori George, former chairmen of Obio-Akpor and Asari-Toru LGAs, respectively, led protests, insisting they remained the authentic chairmen....

The Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Rivers State Chapter, has distanced itself from a planned protest by former local government chairmen, state and National Assembly members loyal to the F.C.T Minister, Nyesom Wike, against the Police presence in the 23 local government councils across the state. In a statement signed by Hon. Ichemati Ezebunwo, Chairman, and Alabota Anengi Barasua, Secretary, ALGON Rivers State Chapter, the association described the planned protest as a "calculated attempt" by "enemies of the state" to cause mayhem and paint the state in a bad light. "We support the police decision to take control and protect all local government council secretariats until further directives on the matter," the statement read. "We are not in any way linked to the planned protest, which is detrimental to the progress and well-being of the people of the state." The association accused the organisers of the protest of trying to...

  A member of the Nigerian House of Representatives, Hon. Philip Agbese, has expressed optimism and delight ahead of the inauguration of Deputy Speaker Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu into Africa's apex legislative body, the Pan-African Parliament (PAP).  Agbese, who is also a member of the PAP, said Rt. Hon. Kalu will bring a wealth of experience and expertise to the continental body as a seasoned legislator and leader. The Deputy Speaker is among 21 new members to be sworn in on Monday during the opening session of the Third Ordinary Session of the Sixth Parliament, Midrand, South Africa.  In his congratulatory message, Agbese said Kalu's addition presents a unique opportunity for Nigeria to play a more prominent role in shaping the continent's legislative agenda.  According to him, the Deputy Speaker's leadership and diplomatic prowess will foster collaboration among member states, facilitate knowledge sharing, and drive the implementation of PAP's objectives. He added: ...

The Nigerian Shipping and Port Economic Regulatory Agency bill has undergone multiple revisions, with the 2024 iteration duplicating the powers and functions of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) and other Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) under the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy. This proposed shipping regulatory bill has sparked intense debate and discussion among stakeholders in the maritime industry, with concerns raised regarding potential increases in governance costs. Nevertheless, numerous experts believe that a regulatory framework is essential for the industry's growth and development. In a public hearing that was held this year, stakeholders convened to share their perspectives on the bill, and the consensus was clear: the Shippers' Regulatory Bill is the preferred option. The crux of the debate centers on whether the proposed bill will usher in a new era of streamlined governance and enhanced regulatory oversight or burde...

By Tolulope Adebayo Under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration, the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation has experienced a remarkable resurgence, led by the visionary leadership of Professor Joseph Terlumun Utsev. As the Honourable Minister of Water Resources, Utsev has leveraged his vast expertise and experience in water resources and environmental engineering to champion groundbreaking initiatives addressing the nation's complex water challenges. Hailing from Buruku Local Government Area of Benue State, Nigeria, Professor Utsev boasts an impressive academic pedigree. He graduated with distinction from the Federal University of Agriculture (now JOSTUM), Makurdi, in 2004, earning a Bachelor of Engineering Degree in Civil Engineering with Second Class Honours (Upper Division) as the best student in his cohort. He then pursued advanced studies at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, earning a Master's degree in Water Resources and Environmental Engineering...

Professor Law Mefor, a renowned political analyst, says Justice Abdullahi Liman's landmark ruling annulling the reinstatement of Sanusi Lamido as Emir of Kano suggests his fate is not tied to the throne.  Mefor, in an interview on Arise TV, said Governor Abba Yusuf's assent to the amended Kano Emirate law and Sanusi's reinstatement defied a court order, demonstrating disregard for the rule of law. According to him, Sanusi's initial dethroning was a consequence of his actions, which contravened traditional and legal norms. He, therefore, said the court's overturning of all actions taken after the amended law was passed, including Sanusi's appointment, has sealed his fate. "The judge ruled for a return to status quo, and the interpretation is clear; go back to where the matter was before it came before me," Professor Mefor said. "The status of the Kano Emirate before the matter was brought before the court was Emir Ado Bayero in charge." He add...

In continuation of his philanthropic acts to the public, Primate Ayodele has held another edition of his palliative market initiative today Saturday, 22nd of June, 2024 at the Ijoko branch of his church in Ogun state. This has made it the fourth edition since the palliative market initiative started in 2023. The maiden and second edition was held at the Lagos headquarters of INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church while the third one was held in Ekiti state in commemoration of the planting of a new church. At the latest edition which was held in Ogun state, Primate Ayodele, as usual, crashed the prices of food commodities like rice, noodles, Semo, Garri, groundnut oil, Wheat,  to mention but a few. Just like the previous editions, 30 half bags of rice were sold for N8,000 each, paints of Garri were sold for N500, bags of Semolina were sold for N2,000, kegs of groundnut oil went for N2,500, bags of wheat were sold for N2,000, Small and big sizes cartons of noodles were sold for N1,000 and...

By Adamu Kuta The press release issued by the Rivers State Caucus in the House of Representatives, titled “Need to Call Hon. Ikenga Ugochinyere to Order” is one that anyone who loves Nigeria and the future of Nigeria must pay attention to, study and condemn the warped thinking of those who issued it. In this regard, while Rt. Hon. Dumnamene Dekor-Leader, Rivers Caucus in the House of Representatives and Hon. Cyril Hart-Secretary, Rivers Caucus in the House of Representatives, are the signatories to the document, the reality is that the statement and the false narrative it sought to push is a clear instance of the “voice of Jacob but the hand of Esau” as the Rivers Caucus is merely running errands for those who are exploiting Rivers State as a staging ground to hijack democracy in Nigeria. Had the ideas propounded in the statement not been depraved and despicable it would have been comical because of its poor grasp of the fair intervention that Hon. Ikenga Ugochinyere made on the theatr...