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Sharia Court sentences man to death by stoning for homos3xuality

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A middle aged man, Abdullahi Sani of Unguwar Makara huta in Ningi, headquarters of Ningi LGA of Bauchi State is to die by stoning.

The development is sequel to a judgement delivered by a Sharia Court in Ningi which has sentenced him to death by stoning for the offence of homos3xuality having been found guilty of the offence as charged.

The Sharia Court presided over by Abdullahi Aliyu Doya delivered the judgement and pronounced the death sentence during the court session on Friday, 10th May 2024 in Ningi.

The Sharia Judge said that the Court commenced hearing on the case on 02/05/2024 and after listening to various arguments on the case, closed it on Thursday, 09/05/2024 for judgement and sentence.

The Sharia Judge explained that the outcome of the various witnesses presented before the Court coupled with the acceptance of guilt by the accused of engaging in homos3xuality, the Court delivered the judgment and the sentence.

He therefore pronounced that, the accused, Abdullahi Sani, a resident of Unguwar Makara huta, in Ningi should be stoned to death for committing the offence of homosexuality.

Abdullahi Aliyu Doya explained that he delivered the judgment and the sentence in line with the provision of section 131, 132 da 133 of the Bauchi State administration of criminal justice, 2001.

It would be recalled that on 01/07/2022, a Sharia court presided over by Munka’ilu Sabo-Ningi, delivered judgement and sentenced three otherpeople to death by stoning having been found guilty of the offence of homos3xuality.

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EFCC accuses banks of informing customers of investigation activities

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A call for increased discretion has come from Mr. Ola Olukoyede, the Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) regarding the disclosure of information on customers under investigation by Commission.

Olukoyede, on Saturday, issued a warning to bank staff urging them to refrain from sharing details of EFCC investigations with customers.

Olukoyede, in a statement by Head, Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, in Ibadan, Oyo State capital, decried the unhealthy support fraudsters received from the banking sector in Nigeria.

The EFCC chairman made this call through the Acting Zonal Director of the Ibadan Zonal Command of the agency, Hauwa Garba Ringim during a stakeholders’ meeting with Compliance Officers of Banks in Oyo State.

He said, “The EFCC is aware of the fact that compliance officers give information to their clients regarding “letters of investigation activities” written to the banks from the EFCC.

“The act usually jeopardizes the investigation exercise of financial crimes and delays corruption cases from being filed before the law court.”

Confidentiality and Due Process

This directive raises a few key questions. Banks are entrusted with sensitive client information, and maintaining confidentiality is paramount. However, they also have a responsibility to cooperate with law enforcement agencies like the EFCC when investigating potential financial crimes.

Striking a Balance

The EFCC is a crucial agency in Nigeria’s fight against corruption. Unchecked information leaks could potentially:

• Alert suspects, allowing them to tamper with evidence or flee.

• Damage the reputation of innocent customers caught in the crossfire of investigations.

On the other hand, some may argue that complete transparency is necessary to ensure due process and prevent banks from being complicit in any wrongful accusations.

Need for Clarification

Olukoyede’s directive warrants further investigation. More details are needed to understand the specific context and reasoning behind this call for secrecy.

Key questions to consider include:

• What specific information is Olukoyede advising banks to withhold?

• Are there any legal guidelines dictating how banks should handle EFCC inquiries?

• How can banks ensure a balance between client confidentiality and cooperation with law enforcement?

Impact on Customers

The ultimate impact of this directive will depend on its implementation. Customers should be aware of their rights and the bank’s obligations when it comes to information sharing during EFCC investigations.

This situation highlights the need for clear communication and established protocols within the banking sector to ensure both customer trust and compliance with legal requirements.

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Dana Air cuts staff as operational audit looms

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In a move that has sparked concern among workers, Dana Air, a Nigerian airline, has laid off an unspecified number of employees.

This comes amid an ongoing operational audit being conducted by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).

The airline’s management, through its Head of Corporate Communications, Kingsley Ezenwa, on Saturday, emphasized that the staff reductions are temporary.

He characterized them as “disengagements” pending the conclusion of the audit. Ezenwa assured staff that the airline is working to address any concerns raised during the audit and is committed to a “seamless and prompt resolution.”

“In light of the ongoing audit, Dana Air has made the decision to temporarily disengage some staff members pending the conclusion of the audit,” Ezenwa said.

“The Management of Dana Air extends its sincere appreciation to all staff members for their resilience and dedication during this period of uncertainty. It recognises the difficulties that staff have had to endure and assures them that every effort is being made to resolve the situation promptly,” the statement reads.

Dana Air has also initiated discussions with lessors and is actively involving stakeholders in the ongoing progress.

“Dana Air therefore urges for calm and understanding from our very dedicated staff for their altruism and stakeholders,” the airline said.

Reasons Behind the Job Cuts Unclear

The exact reasons behind the staff cuts remain unclear. Dana Air’s statement focuses on the ongoing audit, but doesn’t elaborate on how the audit necessitates workforce reductions. The airline has faced financial difficulties in the past, and the audit may have uncovered areas where streamlining is necessary.

Second Blow for Dana Air

This news comes after Dana Air’s operations were grounded in April by the NCAA following an incident where one of its planes veered off the runway at Lagos airport. The grounding, coupled with the current audit, has created a period of significant uncertainty for the airline.

Impact on Workers and Passengers

The job cuts will undoubtedly impact the lives of affected employees. Passengers, meanwhile, may be concerned about the potential effects on Dana Air’s operations and schedule. The airline has yet to address how these staff reductions might impact flight availability or service quality.

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Renda raises $1.9m in pre-seed round to expand into Kenya, Nigeria

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Renda, a logistics firm, has raised US$ 1.3 million in equity capital in addition to US$600,000 in debt financing during its pre-seed round to expand operations in Kenya and Nigeria.

The logistics firm, which has MarketForce and Jumia among its top clients, is already active in 15 Nigerian towns and collaborates with e-commerce companies to deliver goods to customers and handle warehousing.

Ingressive Capital, Techstars Toronto, Founders Factory Africa, Magic Fund, Golden Palm Investments, SeedFi, Reflect Ventures, and Vastly Valuable Ventures led Renda’s fundraising round.

READ ALSO:Meta unveils new feature which allows users to post secret stories on Instagram

“The pre-seed funding will be utilized to technologically enhance Renda’s offerings, drive expansion to more cities in Nigeria and East Africa, and grow its partnership network across all active markets,” the startup announced.

In addition to loan funding from Founders Factory Africa and SeedFi Finance, the investment round included $1.3 million in equity and $600,000 in debt financing.

While reacting to the development, Maya Horgan Famodu, Founder and Partner at Ingressive Capital, said that joining forces with Renda is a strategic move for her firm.

“Joining forces with Renda as an investor is a strategic move for us. Renda’s technology solution addresses a critical need in the African manufacturing and e-commerce ecosystems, offering seamless access to fulfilment infrastructure,” Maya said.

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Dessers goal not enough as Celtic close to title with Rangers win

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Super Eagles forward Cyriel Dessers was on target for Rangers in their 2-1 defeat to Celtic in a thrilling Old Firm derby on Saturday.

Rangers played the entire second half with 10 men, following a red card shown to John Lundstram in the added time of the first half.

The opening goal was scored by O’Riley and an owngoal by Lundstram doubled the lead for the hosts before Dessers pulled one back in the 40th minute.

Read Also: Dessers nets winner for Rangers at St. Mirren

O’Riley had a tame penalty effort saved by Jack Butland after he was tripped by Mohamed Diomande just nine minutes into the second half.

Celtic also had two goals ruled out for offside, but they held on to seal the victory which puts them on the brink of another Scottish Premiership title.

Four derbies, three wins, a six point lead at the top of the table and a goal difference of seven better than Rangers.

Celtic need just one point from games against Kilmarnock and St Mirren to secure a third straight title.

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Abia Gov Otti, accuses Ikpeazu of misappropriating airport funds

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Dr. Alex Otti, the Abia State Governor, has levelled serious allegations against his predecessor, Okezie Ikpeazu.

Otti claims a forensic audit uncovered the diversion of N10 billion allocated for the Abia airport project.

He said the immediate past administration transferred the N10 billion airport funds into 32 different company accounts before it was shared adding that the money had already been transferred out of the state government account before they approached the Abia State House of Assembly for approval.

The governor was offering more clarification on the auditing during his monthly media chat, tagged “Governor Alex Otti Speaks to Abians” held at Government House Umuahia.

Read Also: Rep denies receiving $140m bribe from fleeing Binance director

According to Otti, the audit by KPMG, a multinational professional services firm, revealed that the funds were transferred into 32 different company accounts before being dispersed.

He further alleges that this transfer occurred in September 2020, coinciding with the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Otti contends that the Abia State House of Assembly did not approve this disbursement.

“It’s true and incontrovertible. The statement is there, the report is there. By the way, the report will be published very soon.

“But I can assure you that as reported by the media, it’s KPMG that did the forensic audit.

“So, clearly something went wrong. Our engagement with the company that received the money gives the impression that the company was deceived. The Managing Director of the company said that he told them that he had never built an airport before and that it is not his area of competence neither did he apply to them to construct an airport,” the Governor said.

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PROFILE OF THE LATE HON. ISA DOGONYARO (KOGUNAN RINGIM)

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Born on December 5, 1977, to the family of Ambassador MBG Dogonyaro and Laila Dogonyaro, OON; both of blessed memory, the late Honourable Isa Dogonyaro hailed from Jigawa State, North West, Nigeria.
His father was a renowned industrialist, diplomat, and former Chairman of the Northern States Chambers of Commerce and Industry; while his mother, was a renowned philanthropist and women’s rights activist.
Described by many as the Queen of modern Northern Nigeria politics, his mother served as the Chairperson of the National Council for Women’s Societies (NCWS) in Kaduna State between 1985 and 1993. She later, served as the National President from 1993 to 1995. As a founding member of the Jam’iyyar Matan Arewa (JMA), she played prominent roles in advocacy for women and children, particularly the fight against Vesico Vaginal Fistula (VVF).
Isa, the last of her six children was a financial forensics and background check expert, who studied Economics at the Bayero University, Kano, between 1998 and 2002, He was also an alumnus of the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia, and the prestigious Harvard Business School.
With a Masters degree in International Affairs and Diplomacy bagged in 2010, from the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, he was skilled in negotiation, strategic policy analysis and risk management. Between 2009 and 2010, he served as a trainer at the International Centre for Asset Recovery – Basel Institute on Governance.
Dogonyaro had a distinguished career in the financial crimes investigation and security sector, which effectively began with his role as a Detective at the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in August 2005. He would later hold several positions at the EFCC Training and Research Institute including Head; Financial Studies Unit, Course Coordinator and Head of the AML-CFT Unit.
In December 2011, he was elevated to become Special Assistant to the Executive Chairman of the EFCC; a position he held until December 2015. He capped his time as a decorated officer of the Commission, with his appointment as Principal Detective Superintendent/Deputy Head of the Department of Internal Affairs in 2015, before bowing out in 2017.
His work in Nigeria’s federal parliament began with an appointment as Special Assistant on Security and Intelligence to Senator Ahmad Lawan, PhD, President of the 9th Senate in July 2019.
During this periodbof service, Dogonyaro was turbaned by the Dan Iyan Ringim and District Head of Garki, Alhaji Kabiru Sayyadi on January 1, 2021 as Garkuwan Garki. A title that was previously held by his late mother Hajiya Dogonyaro. In December of the same year, the Emir of Ringim, Alhaji Sayyadi Abubakar Mahmud, conferred on him the traditional title of Kogunan Ringim; the first in the Emirate.
Recognised as a passionate Nigerian committed to making contributions towards the achievement of food security, he served as the Chairman/Patron of Dogonyaro Farms (Nigeria) Ltd until his demise. The company since inception, engages in several facets of the agro-allied sector including general crop cultivation, poultry and livestock production, feed milling, horse breeding and much more.
He further sought to extend his dedication to the service of his people, leading him to win the nomination of his party, the All Progressives Congress (APC) to contest elections into the 10th Assembly, House of Representatives.
Dogonyaro resigned from his role in the Office of the President of the Senate and emerged victorious in the February 25, 2023 National Assembly Elections. He was thereafter inaugurated in June 2023, as the Honourable Member representing Babura/Garki Federal Constituency of Jigawa State in the House of Representatives.
He was a dedicated and passionate legislator who served his constituents and the nation with utmost commitment. He was a pillar in the 10th House, serving as Deputy Chairman of the House Committee on HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria Control, and contributing to the development of legislation, especially in the Health and Security sectors.
He also served as a Member of various Standing Committees of the House including Constituency Outreach; National Security and Intelligence; Delegated Legislation; Healthcare Services; and Industry.
Other committees he served on, include: Information, National Orientation, Ethics and Values; Insurance and Actuarial Matters; Land Transport; M&E/Implementation of the Legislative Agenda; as well as Rules and Business.
Hon. Dogonyaro was known for his integrity, diligence, and unwavering dedication to the welfare of the Nigerian people. He was a detribalized patriot who was as jovial as he was an intellectual. He built strong bonds of friendship with Honourable Members from all parts of the country.
A devoted family man, the late Honourable Dogonyaro died in the early hours of Friday, May 10, 2024, following a brief illness at the age of 46. He is survived by two wives and children.
The Speaker of the 10th Assembly, House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, PhD, and all Honourable Members of the Green Chamber, celebrate the life and legacy of our dear colleague and patriot; and join family, friends, and well wishers, to pray for the peaceful repose of his soul.
Signed.
Rep. Akin Rotimi, Jr.
House Spokesman / Chairman
House Committee on Media and Public Affairs

Agbese Represents Deputy Speaker Kalu, Re-Emphasises 10th Reps Legislative Agenda

Hon. Philip Agbese, the Deputy Spokesman of the House of Representatives, Thursday, re-echoed the legislative agenda of the Green Chamber at an event where he represented Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu.
Rt. Hon. Kalu was a special guest of honour at the FCDO WASH Systems for Health Programme Launch and Self Help Africa 25th Anniversary.
Agbese, in his address, said the House of Reps is enabling legislation that will unlock more Public-Private Partnership (PPP) funding arrangements, including social impact financing for key services provision.
He assured that the 10th House will remain a staunch supporter of initiatives like the FCDO WASH Systems for Health Programme.
“It is an honour to be here today at the launch of the FCDO WASH Systems for Health Programme and to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Self Help Africa’s impactful work in Nigeria,” the statement said.
“As many of you know, access to clean water and sanitation remains a significant challenge in Nigeria. Data from the World Bank and the WHO/UNICEF Joint Monitoring Programme tells us that 32% of Nigerians lack access to safely managed sanitation, and only 10% have access to basic WASH services. This is simply unacceptable.
“However, there is reason for optimism. The incredible work of organizations like Self Help Africa is making a real difference. Their award-winning WASH programmes have demonstrably improved sanitation in Nigeria, with several local government areas now declared open-defecation free. This is a testament to their dedication and expertise.
“The new FCDO WASH Systems for Health Programme represents a significant step forward. By strengthening WASH systems across sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia, this programme will ensure long-term sustainability and empower communities, particularly women, to have a voice in shaping the services they receive.
“This new approach aligns perfectly with the priorities of the House of Representatives. Our legislative agenda harps on enabling legislation that will unlock more Public-Private Partnership (PPP) funding arrangements, including social impact financing for key services provision. We are also committed to increasing budgetary allocations to WASH, with a target of 1.7% of GDP – a critical step towards meeting SDG 6 targets for universal access to clean water and sanitation.
“But our commitment goes beyond national legislation. We are working tirelessly to ensure these WASH-supportive legislations are domesticated across all 36 state parliaments in Nigeria. This critical step will assure more budgetary allocation within respective states, allowing for the funding of more WASH facilities and systems locally.
“Furthermore, the House is resolute in its commitment to increasing budgetary allocations to WASH at the federal level. We are pushing for a target of 1.7% of GDP to be dedicated to WASH initiatives. This significant increase is a crucial step towards meeting SDG 6 targets for universal access to clean water and sanitation.
“The House of Representatives will remain a staunch supporter of initiatives like the FCDO WASH Systems for Health Programme. I want to express our deepest gratitude to both FCDO and Self Help Africa for their commitment to improving WASH systems in Nigeria. Your dedication serves as an inspiration to us all. We stand ready to collaborate and ensure that every Nigerian has access to clean water and sanitation – a fundamental human right.”

Group calls for immediate dismissal of Mahmood Gidado from NSCDC

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A Group, the Citizens Initiative Against Corruption  has called for an mmediate dismissal of Assistant Commandant General (ACG) Mahmood Gidado Fari from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).

In a letter addressed to the Minister of Interior, Tunji Ojo, dated May 7th, 2024, and signed by its National President, Comrade Hussain Danladi, the organization levied grave allegations against ACG Fari, including gross misconduct, abuse of office, and rape, among others.

The scathing letter alleges a litany of offenses committed by ACG Gidado, asserting that his actions flagrantly violate the Public Service Rules. Described as a personification of serial arrogance and misconduct, ACG Gidado stands accused of multiple transgressions, ranging from insubordination to abuse of human rights.

Of particular concern is the allegation of sexual assault, with ACG Gidado purportedly being implicated as a serial rapist who targets female officers under his authority. This egregious behavior directly contradicts the principles upheld by the NSCDC and undermines its commitment to enforcing constitutional provisions, including those relating to gender equality and human rights.

Furthermore, the letter highlights ACG Gidado’s suspension for gross insubordination towards the Minister and the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire, and Immigration Board. Despite his suspension, ACG Gidado allegedly continues to engage in malicious activities, including sponsoring defamatory articles against the NSCDC and engaging in partisan political endeavors, in violation of Public Service Rules.

The allegations against ACG Gidado extend beyond his conduct within the NSCDC. It is claimed that he has a history of involvement in illicit activities, including recruitment and arming of terrorist groups during his tenure as State Commandant in Nasarawa State. Additionally, he is accused of financial impropriety, fraudulent behavior, and evasion of promotion exercises over a decade.

Despite his self-proclaimed academic credentials, ACG Gidado’s integrity is called into question, with allegations of academic deceit and moral bankruptcy casting a shadow over his purported qualifications.

The Citizens Initiative Against Corruption contends that ACG Gidado’s continued presence in the public service not only undermines the integrity of the NSCDC but also poses a threat to the administration’s efforts to combat corruption and restore trust in government institutions. They argue that his dismissal would serve as a deterrent to others with similar inclinations and send a clear message that misconduct will not be tolerated.

As calls for accountability grow louder, the fate of ACG Mahmood Gidado Fari hangs in the balance, with the government facing mounting pressure to take decisive action in the face of such serious allegations. In the quest for a renewed hope and integrity in governance, the swift and resolute handling of cases like this is imperative to uphold the principles of justice and transparency.

Kogi confirms varsity invaders kidnapped nine undergraduates

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The Kogi State Government has confirmed the abduction of nine students of the Confluence University of Science and Technology, Osara, Okene.

This was as the State Governor, Usman Ododo assured the people of the state of the safe return of the abducted students.

The students, who were reading for their upcoming exams were abducted on Thursday night after bandits swooped on the university around 9 p.m.

The bandits reportedly came in through the bush, went into three lecture halls and began to shoot into the air to scare the students.

In a statement issued on Friday by the State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, it noted that immediately the report was received, the governor “activated the security architecture to track the kidnappers and ensure the abducted students are rescued and the abductors apprehended.”

Fanwo stated that while “nine students have been reported missing,” security operatives and local hunters are working to ensure the safe rescue of the abducted students.

The statement read, “The Kogi State Government received a very disturbing news at about 21.00 hrs, Thursday, 9th May, 2024 that the Confluence University of Science and Technology was invaded by kidnappers.

“Immediately the report was received, the Kogi State Governor, His Excellency Alh. Ahmed Usman Ododo activated the security architecture to track the kidnappers and ensure the abducted students are rescued and the abductors apprehended.

“Hundreds of local hunters who understand the terrain as well as the conventional security agents are currently combing the area to ensure safe rescue of the abducted students who were kidnapped in the classrooms. So far, nine students have been reported missing.”

The statement added that the state government wishes “to assure students, parents and the entire people of Kogi State that the Government is on top of the situation and all the abducted students will be rescued alive.”

The state government commended the efforts of the securioty operatives and local hunters for their efforts. This was as Ododo directed that security agents be positioned around all tertiary institutions in the state.

“We wish to commend the local hunters and other security agents who rose stoutly to engage the kidnappers. Their gallantry and dedication ensured that the kidnappers did not have a field day which would have been more calamitous.

“The State Government will spare nothing in ensuring that all the students abducted are safely rescued and reunited with their families. We won’t submit to terror. We shall prevail,” the statement concluded.