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Artisans decry low patronage ahead

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Artisans decry low patronage ahead

Some artisans in Enugu State have expressed dismay that they were not being patronised by potential exhibitors at the forthcoming 35th Enugu international trade fair.

The artisans said this during an interview by News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Enugu on Tuesday.

They said it was unfortunate that they had been going to the trade fair complex in search of jobs such as construction of exhibition stands but could not find clients.

They told NAN that since the fair would commence on Friday they expected exhibitors to have started constructing their stands.

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Mr Banjamin Ogbodo, also a student of Institute of Management and Technology (IMT), Enugu, said he had been going to the venue for days now in search of any job but to no avail.

“By this time in previous fairs, I have done as many jobs as possible but this year I cannot not even get one exhibition stand to construct.

“The worst part of it is that I have used the little pocket money I have on transportation to the fair venue in anticipation of getting a job. Such jobs help me in my studies.

“I’m optimistic that before the commencement of the fair, things might change for good’’, he told NAN.

Another artisan, Mr Emeka Maduka, said he had been constructing stands for exhibitors in the fair for the past 10 years, adding that unfortunately he was yet to get any job in this year’s edition.

Onwuka said the number of artisans looking for jobs at the trade fair venue was more than the participants on ground at the moment.

A hawker, Miss Ebere Agu, also blamed the location of the fair complex for the low participation and patronage as the place was at the outskirts of the state capital.

According to her, “I have been moving up and down at the trade fair venue since morning looking for patronage for my snacks but could not find buyers. (NAN)

By Ifeoma Aka

2 docked for alleged theft of caterpillar blade, others

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2 docked for alleged theft of caterpillar blade, others

Two men, Solomon Asuquo, 26, and Kabiru Atiku, 28, on Tuesday, appeared before an Ojo Magistrates’ Court in Lagos, for alleged conspiracy to steal caterpillar’s parts valued N17 million.

The defendants, whose house addresses were not provided, are being tried on a four-count charge bordering on conspiracy, stealing, unlawful possession of stolen property and receipt of same.

The defendants, however, pleaded not guilty to the charges.

The prosecutor, Dr Simon Uche, told the court that the defendants committed the offences on March 18, at the Aspanda area of Trade Fair Complex in Ojo.

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He alleged that the first defendant (Asuquo) stole a caterpillar blade and a tractor bucket teeth parts both valued N1

Two men, Solomon Asuquo, 26, and Kabiru Atiku, 28, on Tuesday, appeared before an Ojo Magistrates’ Court in Lagos, for alleged conspiracy to steal caterpillar’s parts valued N17 million.

The defendants, whose house addresses were not provided, are being tried on a four-count charge bordering on conspiracy, stealing, unlawful possession of stolen property and receipt of same.

The defendants, however, pleaded not guilty to the charges.

The prosecutor, Dr Simon Uche, told the court that the defendants committed the offences on March 18, at the Aspanda area of Trade Fair Complex in Ojo.

He alleged that the first defendant (Asuquo) stole a caterpillar blade and a tractor bucket teeth parts both valued N17 million, belonging to one Orjichukwu Charles, the complainant.

He told the court that the defendant could not give a satisfactory account of  how he came about the motor parts when he was apprehended.

Uche alleged that the second defendant (Atiku) on his part, did received the stolen goods, knowing same to have been stolen.

The offences, according to him, contravene the provisions of sections 287, 328, 329, and 411 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State 2015.

The Magistrate, Mr L K J Layeni, granted the defendants bail in the sum of N1 million each with two sureties each in like sum.

He adjourned the case until April 19 for trial. (NAN)

By Sandra Umeh

China condemns suspected Israeli attack on Iranian

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China condemns suspected Israeli attack on Iranian

China has issued a strong condemnation of a suspected Israeli air attack on the grounds of the Iranian embassy in Damascus that claimed the lives of two Iranian generals.

“China condemns the attack on the Iranian embassy in Syria,” Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said in Beijing.

The security of diplomatic institutions must not be violated, and the sovereignty and independence of Syria must be respected, he added.China opposed all actions leading to increased tensions, Wang said.China maintains close ties with Iran, importing large quantities of oil from the country, which remains under sanction by Western countries.It also maintains ties with Syria, inviting President Bashar al-Assad to the Asian Games in Hangzhou in 2023. (dpa/NAN)

Previous articleManchester City’s Grealish says he tries to take heckling as a compliment

Manchester City’s Grealish says he tries to take heckling as

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Manchester City’s Grealish says he tries to take heckling as

Manchester City midfielder, Jack Grealish, often the target of heckling since moving to Manchester City, says he endeavours to take the jeers from opposition supporters as a compliment.

Grealish won the treble with the Manchester club in the 2023 season during which he was booed at Stamford Bridge, at Leeds United and at other games.

The 28-year-old, who joined City from Aston Villa for a fee of around 100 million pounds (125 million dollars) in 2021, has been sidelined with injury over the last few months but is hoping to play his part in City’s bid to win the treble again this season.“I always wonder, ‘why do they boo me?’ and my mum always asks me about it as well.

“At every single away ground I go to now, I get booed and I’m not entirely sure why it is – I just have to try and take it as a positive or a compliment.“Now is where the biggest games are coming… and this is where everyone looks at you and everyone has to perform.“Hopefully, I can be there for the lads, the manager and for our fans and try and be successful in these last two months,” Grealish told the club’s online magazine.City, who are third in the Premier League standings, face fourth-placed Aston Villa on Wednesday and play Real Madrid in the Champions League quarter-finals on April 9. (Reuters/NAN)

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JTF frees 9 kidnap victims, arrests 10 suspected kidnappers

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JTF frees 9 kidnap victims, arrests 10 suspected kidnappers

 The Joint Task Force (JTF) in the Niger Delta, Operation Delta Safe, says its troops on Monday rescued nine kidnap victims abducted by armed gunmen on March 29 along Ugheli-Patani axis of the East-West road.

Rear Admiral John Okeke, Commander of the joint military force deployed to Niger Delta, confirmed the development to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Monday night.

Okeke said that 10 suspected kidnappers were arrested in the rescue of the victims who included an NYSC member and a Navy rating.

“In continuation to ensure safety of lives and property in the Niger Delta Region, the gallant troops of the Joint Task Force South South Operation Delta Safe (OPDS), comprising troops of Quick Response Force (QRF) of Headquarters OPDS, Land, Maritime and Air Components on Monday, April 1, 2024, rescued nine kidnap victims.

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“The freed victims were kidnapped on 29 March, 2024, along Patani-Ughelli Road in Delta State.

“During the rescue operation, 10 suspects in connection with the kidnap incident were arrested. Amongst the rescued victims is a Naval Rating and an NYSC member,” Okeke said.

The JTF Commander subsequently warned criminal elements within the Niger Delta region to desist from their nefarious activities as there will be no safe haven for them in the region as troops will not leave any stone unturned in ensuring a conducive environment for the safety of lives and properties.

Okeke also commended the troops for their gallantry and efforts on the rescue operation. 

He urged the general public to always provide useful information to security agencies on criminal activities within their communities. (NAN)

By Nathan Nwakamma

Oyebanji seeks FG’s support for Ekiti Tourism Devt Master Plan 

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Oyebanji seeks FG’s support for Ekiti Tourism Devt Master Plan 
Senate approves FG’s 2022-2024 external borrowing plan

Gov. Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti has called for support from the Federal Government itowards the timely and efficient execution of the  Ekiti Tourism Development Master Plan.

Oyebanji, who made the call when the Minister of Tourism, Mrs Lola Ade-John visited the state for the Ekiti Hike Mountain Safari and some other tourism engagements.

‘We believe that a strategic plan is indispensable for the sustainable development of tourism. By formulating a comprehensive master plan, Ekiti will be able to identify and capitalize on its unique tourism assets, create world-class tourist infrastructure, and implement effective marketing strategies.

”Ekiti has the potential to re-awake the economy of the nation. The master plan will also  serve as a roadmap for future endeavors and pave the way for Ekiti to become a premier tourist destination,” he said.

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Responding, John said her visit to the state was to encourage and promote the Eco tourism sector of the state.

”Ekiti has beautiful tourist sites which needs to be tapped and explored. ‘The future of tourism in Ekiti looks promising,” she said.

Also speaking, the Director-General of the Bureau of Tourism Development in the state,  Mr  Wale Ojo-Lanre said that the economic importance of hiking cannot be underrated.

”I urge you to explore the Abanijorin mountain. It has seven caves,  Rock tunnel,  amphitheatre and breathtaking vista,” he said.

Oyebanji, the minister and her team had earlier visited the Palace of Oluyin of Iyin-Ekiti,  Oba Adeniyi Ajakaye where they were told about the history behind the mountain “Okuta Aba ni Jorin

NAN reports that  the governor on Feb. 21, approved the development of the state tourism development plan, as part of efforts to harness and enhance the tourism potential of the state, for economic growth and prosperity.

The initiative is aimed at positioning Ekiti as the most sought-after tourist destination in the country, according to a statement.

Oyebanji therefore, entrusted the task of developing the comprehensive plan to Ekiti Bureau of Tourism Development, which is charged with designing a sustainable and strategic roadmap that will promote the abundant natural beauty, cultural heritage and historical significance of the state. (NAN) (

By Bolanle Lawal

ZMSG denies taking N14.2b loan

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ZMSG denies taking N14.2b loan

 The Zamfara government on Monday denied taking a N14.2 billion loan as indicated in a report by the Debt Management Office (DMO).

A statement issued in Gusau on Monday by Sulaiman Idris, Senior Special Assistant to the governor on Media and Publicity, debunked the claim it described as false.

“This is to clarify the DMO report which said that the Zamfara state government borrowed N14.26 billion naira.

“The Zamfara government has never applied for loan or approached the State Assembly or National Assembly with such request,” Idris said.

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According to the statement, the sum of 14.26 billion, as stated in the DMO report, was not borrowed by Gov Lawal’s administration.

“The amount was part of the proceeds from a 20 billion naira loan floated by previous administrations in the state.

“No domestic or external loans have been borrowed since Gov Dauda Lawal came in.

“It is important to note that the previous Zamfara state government floated a N20 billion bond but failed to collect the total amount.

“The immediate past government received N4 billion naira out of the N20 billion requested for the Zamfara Cargo Airport project, though the funds were not utilised.

“Upon assuming office, we discovered that the payment terms made terminating the bond impossible without incurring a significant loss for the state.

“The balance of N16 billion out of the N20 billion borrowed by the past administration is the N14.26 billion captured by the DMO. The value is reduced due to inflation.

“The bond balance, which is still in a government account, has not been used and will be reserved for the airport project,” he explained. (NAN)

By Ishaq Zaki

Police arrest armed robbery suspect, two others at large 

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Police arrest armed robbery suspect, two others at large 
Police arrest man for allegedly printing, distributing fake Police ID Cards
Police arrest man for allegedly printing, distributing fake Police ID Cards

The Police Command in Kaduna State said its operatives arrested an armed robbery suspect while two others were still at large.

The Command’s Public Relations Officer, ASP Mansir Hassan, confirmed the arrest to the News Agency of Nigeria on Tuesday in Kaduna.

Hassan said, on April 1, Police operatives at Narayi Division at about 0200hrs received  a distress call from a good samaritan of Bilyaminu street in Narayi area in Chikkun Local Government Area of the state.

“That some miscreants, numbering three suspects, alleged to be armed robbers with lethal objects, invaded an apartment belonging to Alhaji Muhammad and carted away his phone Samsung S22 model and other valuables.

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According to him, during the criminal act, the victim was stabbed severally with a knife.

He disclosed that the arrested suspect was named Nura Musa of Hayin Dan Mani area in Igabi LGA.

“The suspect, Musa, was arrested and found in possession of the carted items and weapons while his two other accomplices, Buhari Attah and Babangida DK, all of Hayin Dan Mani area, fled the scene, ” he said.

Hassan said the victim was subsequently rushed to hospital for treatment while

 the suspect was in the Police custody for further investigation .

” Efforts are ongoing to arrest the other fleeing suspects, ” Hassan said.(NAN)

By Mohammed Tijjani

Tiv Traditional Council reconciles Akume, Alia 

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Tiv Traditional Council reconciles Akume, Alia 

The Tiv Traditional Council(TTC), on Monday brokered peace between Gov Hyacinth Alia and Sen. George Akume, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation.

The hitherto close political allies had been enmeshed in a cold war over the political leadership of the North Central state.

The conflict hit a crescendo with the recent inauguration of a factional APC State Executive Council by the Governor, a development that saw the Police stepping in to take over the APC State Secretariat to forestall violence.

Worried by the worsening crisis, the Tiv paramount ruler, Prof James Ayatse, and the TTC invited the duo to discuss the differences.

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The News Agency of Nigeria(NAN) reports that the TTC held a closed door meeting with the two leaders in Gboko, headquarters of the Tiv race, where it sought to iron out their differences.

Ayatse, while briefing newsmen on the outcome of the meeting, said that the duo agreed to reconcile their differences.

“The two leaders have agreed to put aside their political differences and work for the progress of Benue.\

“Today, I called the Governor of Benue, Rev Fr Alia, and the SGF, Sen George Akume, to discuss with them because of reports that we have received about conflicts between them.

“We have spoken with them. They have told us the issues. We discussed the issues and agreed together.

“They agreed to bury their differences and work together as a team for the good of the people.

“So, all the past differences have been put aside and now we have a fresh start. We shall work together in unity, in cooperation and agreement for the progress and development of Benue.

“The leaders have made a commitment to keep to their word and ensure that there is peace and unity between them going forward.”

He said the SGF and the Governor understood the weight of making an undertaking before the fathers of the land and shall, God willing, abide by their words.

“Yes, they made a commitment. They shook hands and embraced one another. They have promised to work as a team.

“We are happy with the resolutions they took themselves and we believe they have shown commitment. We are their fathers in the land; our blessings have a lot of importance in their activities.

“So, to make such commitment in the presence of the traditional rulers of the land is very weighty. We do believe that they will adhere to the resolutions that we have reached today,” he said

NAN reports that while Sen Barnabas Gemade was Gov Alia’s witness during the reconciliation meeting, Michael Aondoakaa, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, was Akume’s witness.

The two officials – the SGF and the Governor – however refused to speak with the press after the meeting.(NAN)

By Emmanuel Antswen

Army Hq confirms minor explosion at farmland in Ikeja Cantonment

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Army Hq confirms minor explosion at farmland in Ikeja Cantonment

The Nigerian Army says a minor explosion occurred in a farmland near the Mammy Market within the Ikeja Cantonment in Lagos on Monday.

This is contained in a statement by the Director Army Public Relations, Maj.-Gen Onyema Nwachukwu, in Abuja.

Nwachukwu said the explosion was suspected to have been triggered by the  burning of refuse and other inflammable debris by a farmer who cultivated the farmland.

According to him, no casualty was recorded in the incident.

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“However, given that the cantonment was recently cleared and certified free of unexploded ordnances, we understand that there could be concerns among the general public as a result of the historical antecedent of explosion within the Cantonment.

“The Nigerian army therefore wishes to assure the public that the situation is under control as its Engineers Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team has cordoned off the area of the farmland to conduct a thorough investigation into the cause of the explosion.

“We urge residents in the general area not to panic and assure them of their safety,” he said. (NAN)

By Sumaila Ogbaje

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