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Bayelsa residents butcher another whale at Brass Island 

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Bayelsa residents butcher another whale at Brass Island 

The people of the Okpoama community in Brass Local Government Area of Bayelsa State have butchered another giant whale that was grounded in the seaside community.

The whale, measuring about 15 meters long and five meters wide at a height of about three meters, was dead when residents saw it on the beach on Wednesday morning.

Picture shows residents of Okpoama community butchering the stranded whale on Wednesday

It is believed to have come in with the high tide on Tuesday night and was left on the shore as the sea water receded at low tide.

A community source, Tarinyo Akono, told The According on Wednesday that “they are butchering the whale,” saying the people were using machetes, hacksaws, and axes to cut the animal to pieces.

The picture shows residents of the Okpoama community butchering the stranded whale on Wednesday.

Akono, a former state Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Bayelsa State Council, who is an indigene of the area, said the whale was dead after being out of water throughout the night.

Picture shows residents of Okpoama community butchering the stranded whale on Wednesday.

The youth president of Okpoama, Seiyefa Felix Ben-Basuo, who also spoke to our correspondent, said people were butchering the animal at the seaside.

Five years ago, in August 2019, a giant whale was stranded in the same seaside community and was butchered by the residents for food.

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IG condemns violence in Rivers, orders probe into officers’ killing

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IG condemns violence in Rivers, orders probe into officers’ killing

The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has condemned the outbreak of violence and breakdown of law and order at various Local Government Council secretariats in Rivers State.

According Online reported that a clash happened on Tuesday over the tenure of Local Government Council Chairmen in the state, which led to the deaths of a police officer and a vigilante member.

In a statement on Wednesday by the Force Spokesman, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the police IG directed the Rivers Commissioner of Police, Olatunji Disu, to heighten security measures across the state.

The IG also ordered a thorough investigation into the killing of the police officer and the vigilante operative and also directed the probe of the general violence which erupted in the state.

Egbetokun also deployed operatives of the Force Intelligence Response Team (IRT) to assist the Rivers State Command in apprehending the killers of the police officer and the vigilante member.

The statement reads: “The Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, condemns in the strongest terms the recent outbreak of violence and subsequent breakdown of law and order at various Local Government Council secretariats in Rivers State, where supporters of two political factions clashed over the tenure of Local Government Council Chairmen, which unfortunately led to the tragic deaths of a Police Officer – Inspector David Mgbada, and Samuel Nwigwe, a vigilante member at Eberi-Omuma in Omuma LGA.

“In response to these heinous acts, the IGP has directed the Commissioner of Police in Rivers State, CP Olatunji Disu, to heighten security measures across the state and institute thorough investigations into the killing of the police officer and the vigilante operative, as well as the general violence which erupted in the state.

“The IGP has specifically deployed operatives of the Force Intelligence Response Team (IRT) to assist the Rivers State Command in apprehending the killers of the police officer and the vigilante member.

“The IGP seriously warns individuals and groups of people who have a penchant for senseless attacks and mindless killings of police officers and other security operatives across the country to desist forthwith as the fullest force of the law will be meted on them.”

Egbetokun also directed increased patrols, strategic deployment of officers, and enhanced intelligence operations to prevent further violence and ensure the safety of all residents.

He, however, expressed condolences to the families, friends, and colleagues of the security operatives, stating that their dedication and sacrifice in the line of duty will not be forgotten.

It added”: “The CP has also been directed to focus on increased patrols, strategic deployment of officers, and enhanced intelligence operations to prevent further violence and ensure the safety of all residents.

“The IGP extends heartfelt condolences to the families, friends, and colleagues of the deceased police officer and the vigilante member, noting that their dedication and sacrifice in the line of duty will not be taken for granted.

“The Inspector General of Police calls on all residents and political stakeholders in the State to exercise restraint and seek peaceful means of resolving differences.”

Uyo: Traders lament as Akwa Ibom Govt demolishes shop extensions

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Uyo: Traders lament as Akwa Ibom Govt demolishes shop extensions

Petty traders in Uyo metropolis are groaning over the demolition of their shops by the Akwa Ibom State Government.
Authorities of the Uyo Capital City Development Authority, UCCDA, led by the Chairman, Anietie Eka, accompanied by officials of the Ministry of Internal Security and Waterways, under the commissioner, Maj. Gen. Koko Essien (rtd) on Tuesday demolished illegal structures including shop extensions along Ibom Plaza, Aka Road and Nung Oku axis.
It was learnt that government’s notice to the traders to vacate the area elapsed on June 18, 2024.
The stranded petty traders, whose makeshift shops were destroyed, some with goods inside, lamented that the notice given by government was not enough for relocation.
Lamenting, one Edidiong, who deals in fabrics, said, “Government has become so insensitive to the plight of the people. All my goods have been destroyed inside the shop because when the taskforce arrived this morning, no time was given to us to salvage our wares before destroying the structures.”
Another trader, Aniekan Ukem, said, “During election period, they would come cap-in-hand begging even common people like us for vote; after that the real people-oriented governance will disappear.”
“I am a graduate of Philosophy, but since I couldn’t find job since I graduated, I had to loan capital to start up this business as government said we should ‘ARISE’ but the same government is the one destroying my only means of livelihood. How do I repay the loan?,” Ekpe Udoinyang, a wine dealer, cried out.
Speaking to some angry youths present at the scene, the Chairman of UCCDA, Eka, emphasized the importance of clearing the government-owned forest, citing the need to ensure the security of residents and achieve the remodeling target of the government.
On his part, the Commissioner for Internal Security, Essien, said the move is aimed at tackling the root causes of crime and building a safer and more secure city for all citizens in the state, as encapsulated in the security management aspiration of the ‘ARISE Agenda’.
Uyo: Traders lament as Akwa Ibom Govt demolishes shop extensions

Aiteo shuts down OML 29 field in Bayelsa

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Aiteo shuts down OML 29 field in Bayelsa

Nigeria’s crude oil production has dipped as Aiteo Eastern Exploration and Production Company, operator of the NNPC/Aiteo Joint Venture on OML 29 shuts down oil production in the Nembe oilfields in Bayelsa State.

A statement by Aiteo Media Officer, Ndiana-Abasi Matthew, on Wednesday, confirmed an oil leak at its loading facility Nembe Creek on Monday evening.

The statement read: “The leak was reported on Monday, June 17, 2024, during routine operations. AEEPCO’s Oil Spill and Emergency Response Team was immediately activated and all production from OML 29 shut down.”

The company described the actions as “a precautionary measure while mobilizing additional resources to contain the spill. The cause of the spill is currently undetermined. However, we are proactively engaging with stakeholders to mitigate the immediate effects.”

Aiteo Group Managing Director, Victor Okoronkwo, said the leak was detected during its operations on Monday.

He explained that the relevant institutions have been notified and a Joint Investigative Visit with other stakeholders has been initiated to determine the cause of this incident: The Punch gathered that the JIV was scheduled for Wednesday.

The JIV involves the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission, the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency, members of the community, and other stakeholders.

The company said it regretted the “production losses to the Joint Venture and the nation and the potential environmental impact” stressing that “our current priority is to expedite an efficient spill management process in line with regulatory standards and collaborate with all stakeholders to restore production and mitigate associated risks”.

But, the Chairman, Oil and Gas Committee, Nembe Kingdom, St. George Kumo, said the spill was caused by an accidental collision between two vessels one of which was loading crude oil at the time of the collision.

Kumo said the spill had spread to Okpoama in neighbouring Brass Local Government Area and has paralysed fishing and other economic activities in the area.

Abia PDP accuses Gov Otti of lack of transparency in contract awards

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Abia PDP accuses Gov Otti of lack of transparency in contract awards

The Abia State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), on Wednesday, slammed the state government for its alleged lack of due process and transparency in awarding contracts.
The party’s criticism comes amid a dispute between the Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Hon. Emmanuel Emeruwa, and Innoson Motor Company over payment for vehicles purchased by Governor Alex Otti for state legislators.
In a statement, PDP Acting State Publicity Secretary, Elder Abraham Amah expressed concern over the revelation that Innoson Motors received no payment from the state government, despite the governor’s claims to the contrary.
The party argues that this situation highlights a disconnect between the government’s actions and roles, infringes on the legislature’s independence, and undermines democracy.
Read Also: Court rejects fresh bail request for suspended cop, Abba Kyari
The PDP also questions the unconventional arrangement where the governor awards contracts for legislative vehicles, rather than the Assembly handling its own procurement. This, they argue, puts legislators under the governor’s influence and compromises their independence.
The party concludes that if the governor could misinform the Speaker on a minor financial matter like vehicle purchases, it raises doubts about the accuracy of information provided to ordinary citizens on more significant issues.
The statement reads, “The revelation made by Innoson Motors that it has not received any payment from the Abia State government shows a total and embarrassing disconnect between the roles and actions of the operators of the Abia government. The Speaker had said repeatedly that the Governor had told him that he had made payments for the vehicles to Innoson Motors.
“The Abia PDP is concerned that this situation assaults the concept of separation of powers and debases our democracy. In the first place, it is an infringement on the independence of the legislature that the governor should be the one to award contracts for the purchase of vehicles for legislators. As a separate arm of government, the Assembly should be the one to award the contract for its vehicles, its budget should be on the first line charge to enable it maintain its independence.
“This unconventional situation brings the legislators under the influence of the Governor and it is difficult to see how they can maintain their independence if they have to depend on him for their welfare.“If the governor cannot give the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, who is the number three person in the government hierarchy, the correct information in a financial matter as little as purchase of vehicles, we cannot imagine how the Governor would give ordinary Abians correct information on other matters. And every Abian is a witness to the constant misinformation the governor wilfully dishes out all the time.”
The post Abia PDP accuses Gov Otti of lack of transparency in contract awards appeared first on Latest Nigeria News | Top Stories from TVN.

Court dismisses fleeing Binance executive Anjarwalla’s suit against FG

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Court dismisses fleeing Binance executive Anjarwalla’s suit against FG

Justice Inyang Ekwo of the Federal High Court in Abuja has dismissed the fundamental rights enforcement suit filed by the Africa regional manager of Binance Holdings Limited, Nadeem Anjarwalla, against the federal government.

In a short ruling on Wednesday, the judge dismissed the suit against the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission for lack of diligent prosecution.

Justice Ekwo stated that on March 28, which was the date of the previous sitting in the matter, Anjarwalla’s counsel, Tonye Krukrubo, (SAN), had sought leave to withdraw his appearance in the matter, and the application was granted.

He said the matter was adjourned until Wednesday for mention but no lawyer appeared for the applicant (Anjarwalla).

Anjarwalla and his colleague, Tigran Gambaryan, had filed separate human rights enforcement suits, against the NSA and EFCC, seeking an order to release them from detention.

The two Crypto-exchange executives, in the suits marked: FHC/ABJ/CS/355/24 and FHC/ABJ/CS/356/24, sued the ONSA and EFCC as 1st and 2nd respondents.

Kukrubo, whose appearance on Wednesday was solely for Gambaryan, moved a motion seeking to amend his client-originating process.

EFCC’s lawyer, Olarewanju Adeola, however, opposed the motion.

Justice Ekwo granted Krukrubo’s request to amend his application. He held that parties, by law, are entitled to amend their processes before judgment.

“I am minded to grant this amendment,” he said.

The court, however, fined Gambaryan, the sum of N50,000, to be paid to the EFCC, for joining issues in the matter.

Justice Ekwo held that the fine must be paid before the next adjourned date.

He fixed July 9, for the hearing of Gambaryan’s suit, following the hearing of the preliminary objection and the substantive matter.

The duo, in their fundamental rights enforcement suits in separate applications, sought a declaration that their detention and the seizure of their international travel passport contravened Section 35 (1) and (4) of the 1999 Constitution (As Amended).

They claimed the act amounted to a violation of their fundamental right to personal liberty as guaranteed by the constitution, among others.

Anjarwalla and Gambaryan, are both US citizens working for Binance, a crypto exchange platform.

The duo and their company are facing charges bordering on money laundering with the EFCC and tax evasion with the Federal Inland Revenue.

When they were first arrested, they were kept in the custody of the NSA, however, Anjarwalla, absconded from lawful custody on March 22, 2024, to Kenya.

Balmoral, IFMA to elevate standards in hospitality

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Balmoral, IFMA to elevate standards in hospitality

The International Facility Management Association in Nigeria has signed a partnership with Balmoral Group to provide strategic capacity building aimed at setting global standards for facility management in the hospitality industry.

The IFMA’s President, Olalekan Akinwumi, explained that the partnership will serve as a benchmark for regulating hospitality industry standards within Nigeria.

In a statement sent to According Online on Wednesday, Akinwumi stated, “This partnership is the first of its kind and marks the beginning of stronger institutions compliant with international best practices across Nigeria’s hospitality industry.”

“Building capacity involves looking beyond today, as all knowledge is utilized in the future. For us as facility managers, ensuring a safe environment goes beyond the building and includes the well-being of people. This strategic collaboration aims to establish safe event centres, positioning Balmoral Group as a benchmark for the industry.

“Our partnership will enable us to train staff and enhance facility management skills, leading to efficient service delivery. We believe this journey will set a new standard for the Nigerian hospitality industry, attract foreign confidence, and enhance visitors’ experience”, Akinwumi said.

The Chief Executive Officer of Balmoral Group, Dr. Ezekiel Adamu, noted that the firm is poised to deliver excellence across its operations.

He added, “The partnership with IFMA will no doubt steer conversations that would bring the Nigerian hospitality industry to par with world standards in hospitality. We charge vendors that work with event and hospitality firms to get incorporated into the system to ensure uniformity across the board.

“Our collaboration with IFMA focuses on innovation, education, and sustainability, ensuring operational excellence through their expertise in sustainable facility management. Together, Balmoral Event Center and IFMA will enhance our facilities’ efficiency, safety, and overall experience by exploring advanced technologies and methodologies. We will offer top-tier training programs, certifications, and industry insights to our staff, clients, and communities.

“With IFMA’s guidance, we will implement eco-friendly practices and aim to extend this partnership to other venues across Nigeria and Africa, encouraging businesses to seek IFMA certification. We hope the government mandates facility team certifications for event centres.”

Similarly, the General Manager of Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency, Dr. Babatunde Ajayi, represented by the Director of Noise Control, Mrs. Abosede Natufe, congratulated the duo for the bold step in championing environmental protection and safety in the hospitality industry.

“This collaboration exemplifies responsible action and lessens the burden on government agencies, setting a model for the hospitality industry. Coinciding with the 10th Lagos State Climate Change Conference, this initiative addresses the impact of human activities on safety and protection. Partnerships like IFMA and Balmoral relieve government agencies and set a model for the hospitality industry,” Babatunde said.

While advising the partners, Ms. Iyabode Aboaba stressed the importance of maintaining excellence and passion in service delivery.

“To do great work, you have to be passionate. To all of us here, let us crave excellence. You could be labelled, but don’t mind that label. That label will become something people will admire in you with time,” she said.

IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu, reveals plan to negotiate with Nigerian govt for his release

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IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu, reveals plan to negotiate with Nigerian govt for his release

The embattled leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, has said he would seek negotiation with the Federal Government over his ongoing trial.
Kanu, who spoke through his lead counsel, Alloy Ejimakor, told the Federal High Court in Abuja on Wednesday, that he would seek the negotiation under Section 17 of the Federal High Court Act.
The Act states: “In any Proceeding In the court, the court may promote reconciliation among parties thereto and encourage and facilitate the amicable settlement thereof.”
Earlier at the resume sitting of the court on Wednesday, Ejimakor moved two applications brought before the court. The first application was to move form 49 and an application objecting to the jurisdiction of the court.
According to him, if the applications are denied, his client will move for the implementation of section 17 of the Federal High Court Act.
Read also: ‘Stop the killings. We are fighting for freedom, not death in S’East’ ,IPOB leader, Kanu pleads (Video)
Responding, counsel to the federal government, Adegboyega Awomolo told the court that he had earlier informed the defendant that he does not have the powers to negotiate on behalf of the Federal Government.
Awomolo also stated that the defendant should approach the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), who has the power to negotiate on behalf of the government.
The trial judge, Justice Binta Nyako, in her response to the development, said the court was not a solicitor but to only hear cases.
Kanu has been in DSS custody since June 2021, after he was arrested in Kenya. Since his arrest, he has been facing terrorism-related charges levelled against him by the government.
The post IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu, reveals plan to negotiate with Nigerian govt for his release appeared first on Latest Nigeria News | Top Stories from TVN.

Putin says N. Korea hosted slain Russian soldiers’ children in Ukraine

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Putin says N. Korea hosted slain Russian soldiers’ children in Ukraine

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday said North Korea had hosted children of Russian soldiers killed in Ukraine at a summer camp in the reclusive country.

Putin thanked North Korean leader Kim Jong Un for the “act of care” during a state visit to Pyongyang to advance Russia’s relations with its close neighbour as ties with Western countries are ruptured over Ukraine.

The Russian children, who were sent to the Songdowon International Children’s Camp on the Pacific coast, are rare outsiders in the country which shut itself off from the world even more after the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I want to thank our Korean friends and personally comrade Kim Jong Un for organising the holiday of the children of killed participants of the special military operation in the Korean camp Songdowon,” Putin said, using Moscow’s term for its offensive on Ukraine.

“We highly value this genuine act of care and friendship,” he added.
Moscow has not said how many of its troops have been killed in more than two years of fighting in Ukraine, but the number is believed to be at least in the tens of thousands.

Putin said that the countries were developing tourism ties.
“For the summer season, tours are being organised, focused on holidaying in Korean seaside resorts,” he said.

Russia and North Korea share a short land border, near the city of Vladivostok.

As Moscow touts relations with Pyongyang, regional authorities in the Russian Primorye region bordering North Korea have also upped cooperation.

Local governor Oleg Kozhemyako touted sending children from the region to North Korean camps during a visit by Kim to Russia’s Far East last year, causing some alarm from parents.

In an address to schoolchildren, Kozhemyako said: “When we were like you, we would go there, they had good camps in Korea. That’s why maybe we will agree and send some (children) to pioneer camps… There is the sea there and it is warm.”

In April, he said some 200 schoolchildren were ready to holiday in Songdowon.

At the time, the head of the Russian League for a Safe Internet, Yekaterina Mizulina, said she was flooded with complaints from concerned local parents.

AFP

Fire razes Bayero mall in Kano

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Fire razes Bayero mall in Kano

A sudden midday fire outbreak on Wednesday ravaged a section of the Ado Bayero Mall, formally occupied by Game Stores, on Zoo Road in Kano.

The lease manager of the mall, Elizabeth Adeyemo, who confirmed the outbreak to The According, said the firemen are currently on the ground, making frantic efforts to quench the fire.

The According observed that customers were prevented from gaining entry into the mall.

The manager explained the reason was to enable the fire service men free access to put off the fire as soon as possible.

As at the time of filing this report, the cause of the fire could not be ascertained.

Details later…

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