Home Blog Page 237

Security Forces Nab Truck Transporting Over 164,000 Live Cartridges

0

Security forces have stopped a truck carrying more than 164,000 live cartridges that were reportedly destined for the banned Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its military faction, the Eastern Security Network (ESN).
It was understood that the operation was executed by troops from Sector 5 of Operation UDO KA, along with operatives from the 63 Brigade and the Department of State Services (DSS).
Security analyst Zagazola Makama reported that the operation was based on credible intelligence and resulted in the arrest of a suspected arms courier, Mr. Emeka Omenife, on the Asaba–Onitsha expressway on May 29, 2025.

After his arrest, Omenife was promptly transferred to the DSS for questioning. It has been reported that he admitted during interrogation to being involved in a syndicate that transports ammunition from Ghana to Nigeria for IPOB/ESN operatives.
His confession led to the arrest of his accomplice, Mr. Uchenna Obiora, by troops at the Onitsha–Awka tollgate on 30 May 2025, as he was waiting for the delivery of the ammunition.

The apprehension resulted in the interception of a truck containing the concealed ammunition.
“After being intercepted, the vehicle was transported to Onitsha Cantonment, where a detailed search uncovered 164,650 live cartridges concealed in four specially built compartments in the truck’s cargo bed,” a source informed Zagazola.

Read Also: CCYF backs Pastor Ibieyome, warns against distortion of the gospel for clout

The source further indicated that the cartridges are thought to have been bought in Ghana and were being transported to Onitsha for delivery when they were intercepted.

Further inquiries are in progress to identify additional members of the syndicate and their associates.

Security sources further noted that Omenife was previously detained by troops and the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) tracking team on January 22 at his home in Onitsha Housing Estate.

In the operation in January, he tried to escape and was shot in the backside before being taken to the 302 Army Regiment Medical Services for treatment. Later, he was transferred to the Anambra State Police Criminal Investigation Department at Annex Akwuzu for prosecution.

His re-arrest in May indicates that he may have gone back to the same criminal enterprise after his release under unexplained circumstances.

CCYF backs Pastor Ibieyome, warns against distortion of the gospel for clout

0

The Concerned Christian Youth Forum, CCYF, has thrown its weight behind Pastor David Ibiyeomie of Salvation Ministries International following his recent warning against content creators who distort his sermons for sensationalism and online clout.

He warned that such acts would no longer be tolerated and that those found guilty would face consequences going forward.

However, in a statement issued on Tuesday by the group’s Convener, James Paul Adama, the Concerned Christian Youth Forum condemned what it described as the “unscrupulous practices” of bloggers and content creators who twist messages from revered religious leaders for personal gain.

“Our attention has been drawn to the persistent twisting of Pastor Ibiyeomie’s sermons to fit misleading online narratives,” the statement read. “Let it be known that these slanderous attacks are rooted in falsehood. Our Christian leaders are men and women of integrity who have dedicated their lives to serving God and humanity.”

The Forum described the manipulation of sermons as a “dangerous trend” driven by greed and the monetization of misinformation, calling on the Federal Government to urgently step in and regulate such activities in the digital space.

“These bloggers and so-called influencers have turned the sacred into spectacle. Their shameless tactics not only misrepresent the truth but sow seeds of division within the body of Christ,” Adama stated.

He urged the public to be discerning about online content and avoid platforms that profit from defamation and falsehood.

According to him, it is time for faith-based communities and civil society to unite in protecting spiritual institutions from unwarranted attacks.

Abati Warns Tinubu: Beware, Wike Will Abuse You Tomorrow

0

Reuben Abati, who formerly served as presidential spokesperson, has cautioned President Bola Tinubu to be cautious of Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
As Abati noted, Wike’s ability to disrespect and criticize those who were crucial to his rise in politics suggests he can also do the same to the President.
The TV presenter was responding to Wike’s recent verbal assaults on important political figures.

During his appearance on Tuesday on the Arise Television breakfast show The Morning Show, Abati (who co-hosts the show) accused Wike of carelessly discussing his former political mentors and suggested that this was due to a flaw in his character.

Abati characterized Wike’s conduct as motivated by “hubris,” which is clear from his disdain for those who aided him on his journey.

Abati remembered how Wike had previously disrespected Peter Odili, a key figure in Wike’s ascent to power.

The ex-presidential spokesperson indicated that Wike’s method of using derogatory language could soon be aimed at President Tinubu.

He stated, “There is a fundamental principle in human relationships concerning your relationship with your superiors.

„In meiner Ansicht ist Nyesom Wike sehr unhöflich und respektlos, da Rotimi Amaechi in der Politik sein Vorgesetzter ist.

„Er hatte öffentlich gesagt, dass Peter Odili nicht dafür qualifiziert sei, ein Elder zu sein.

“This was the same man Dr. Patience Jonathan had taken him to in order to assist him in becoming governor.” He has called Dr. Peter Odili and his wife by every name imaginable. He described Chief Olabode George as someone who owes ground rent.

Read Also: Breaking: Ondo Assembly Shaken as Deputy Speaker Akinruntan Resigns

“Who is safe from Nyesom Wike’s insults? He has indicated that he will also insult President Bola Tinubu.

Abati wies auf Wikes jüngste Äußerungen zu Tinubus Bekanntmachung einer Notstandserklärung in Rivers State hin und deutete an, Wike habe angedeutet, dass er, wäre ihm die Situation früher bekannt gewesen, anders hätte beraten wollen – ein Zeichen von Illoyalität.

“During that interview, he noted that had he been aware of President Tinubu’s intention to announce a state of emergency in Rivers, he would have provided a different type of advice.

“This already serves as a signal to President Tinubu that the man he is dealing with has only his own interests at heart. President Tinubu should exercise caution. “He will take advantage of this same President Tinubu tomorrow,” he stated.

Breaking: Ondo Assembly Shaken as Deputy Speaker Akinruntan Resigns

0

Abayomi Akinruntan, who serves as Deputy Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly, has resigned from his position, stating the need to conform with the established political arrangements for elections in the state.
On June 2, 2025, Akinruntan, son of Oba Fredrick Akinruntan (Olugbo of Ugbo Kingdom) and representative of Ilaje Constituency 1, announced his resignation via a letter that the Assembly Clerk, Benjamin Jayeiola, read at the plenary.
Akinruntan stated in his resignation letter: “I hereby tender my resignation from the office of the Deputy Speaker effective from today, 2nd June, 2025. Remember that the House was inaugurated in June 2023, during which I was unanimously elected Deputy Speaker by the members as our standing order requires. My resignation stems from the necessity to conform to the traditional power-sharing arrangement for elected positions in the state. I want to express my gratitude to all members and staff for their contributions and support.

After Akinruntan stepped down, Oluwatoyin Japheth (from the Akoko North East Constituency) nominated Ololade Gbegude, who represents Okitipupa Constituency 2, to take over as the new Deputy Speaker, with Chris Ayebusiwa (Okitipupa Constituency 1) seconding the nomination. Gbegude was swiftly sworn in after receiving the uncontested nomination, committing to fulfill his new responsibilities diligently.

In another important development, Oluwole Ogunmolasuyi, the Majority Leader of the Assembly, also resigned from his role. The new Majority Leader is Olatunji Oshati, the legislator for Ose Constituency.

Read Also: Minister: How CBT Will Shut Down Cheating in Schools

Additionally, Muritala Sulaiman from Akoko South East was designated as the new Chief Whip, and Fabiyi Olatunji of Odigbo Constituency 1 was appointed as the Assembly’s new Whip.

Olamide Oladiji, the Speaker of the House, praised the outgoing Deputy Speaker and the Majority Leader for their maturity during the leadership transition.

He stated, “Akinruntan has been a peaceful ally. He has backed the House. I want to commend him for the maturity he showed in guaranteeing a peaceful transition. The same applies to the previous Majority Leader. He has served as a stabilizing force in the House and has also been a reliable and effective ally.

It was understood that Akinruntan and Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa both originate from the Ilaje Local Government Area, while former Majority Leader Ogunmolasuyi is from Owo Local Government Area, which is also the home of Deputy Governor Olayide Adelami.

Minister: How CBT Will Shut Down Cheating in Schools

0

According to Prof. Suwaiba Ahmad, the Minister of State for Education, the government is dedicated to guaranteeing a smooth transition to Computer-Based Testing for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) and National Examination Council (NECO) exams.
She assured that all factors are being considered to ensure that no student or geographical location is disadvantaged when the CBT is fully implemented.
Reports indicate that Ahmad submitted it on Tuesday while monitoring the ongoing WASSCE in selected schools in Abuja, as part of preparations for the government’s planned full transition to CBT by 2027.

„Wir werden CBT nicht auf eine Weise einführen, die irgendeinen Schüler ausschließt. Every child will have the chance to take their exam, no matter their location or available infrastructure.

„Die Nigerianer sollten Geduld mit uns haben. She assured that all concerns are being taken seriously, and by the time CBT is fully implemented, no child will be disadvantaged.

She claims that the government is moving towards a CBT transition to tackle some of the issues associated with paper examination. She stated that all essential technical and infrastructural challenges would be thoroughly dealt with prior to the transition being made.

According to the Minister, students prefer CBT over traditional paper-based exams based on her interaction.

Based on my interaction with the students, they are pleased with the CBT examination and actually prefer it to the written method.

At a CBT centre, everything was organized and punctual; however, at a paper-based exam centre, the exam was not only delayed because of rain, but the script was also missing.

”These are the types of problems that CBT aims to get rid of. Since the system starts counting only when the student accesses the questions, CBT will guarantee that students receive their entire allotted exam time.

“This helps tackle issues such as delays due to weather, transport problems, and administrative oversights,” she stated.

She listed further that one of the solutions produced by CBT would be the eradication of widespread examination malpractices linked to paper-based examinations.

She clarified that by using personalized sets of questions for each candidate, the chances of impersonation, question leaks, and systemic answer sharing would be significantly diminished.

Read Also: Oborevwori: I’ll Drop Any Commissioner Who Fails to Deliver

As she stated, “We know how students and schools manipulate the system, but CBT will shut those doors.”

She mentioned that WAEC and NECO were collaborating with JAMB and other educational stakeholders to tackle significant issues, like electricity and internet infrastructure, that could impede the transition to CBT.

The Minister revealed intentions to utilize JAMB’s well-equipped CBT centres for upcoming exams, and to collaborate with state governments in identifying rural and urban challenges in order to create effective solutions.

She stated that CBT centres could replace school centres in order to address infrastructural challenges.

“When we launch the CBT examination, we will utilize the existing JAMB centres. We will not utilize school centres, as you correctly pointed out, there are schools in rural areas without electricity.

”The school we are presently evaluating lacks power in the examination room. Were CBT to be carried out here today, it would present a significant challenge.

She emphasized, “All of these factors are under consideration as we plan meticulously to guarantee that when we initiate this CBT, every student has a fair chance.”

Oborevwori: I’ll Drop Any Commissioner Who Fails to Deliver

0

Sheriff Oborevwori, the Governor of Delta State, has issued a warning to members of the State Executive Council that they will be dismissed from their positions if they do not perform their jobs effectively.
He stressed that their ongoing tenure in office will be dictated by performance, not talebearing.
During the inauguration of eight newly constructed duplexes at the Commissioners’ Quarters in Asaba on Monday, the governor issued the warning.

Oborevwori stellte klar, dass es zwar keinen allgemeinen Plan zur Auflösung gibt, wie es gemunkelt wird, aber dass nicht leistungsstarke Kommissare entlassen werden würden.

He stated, “If you are not performing, we will drop you, and that will not affect other people.

„Wenn du eine Leistung zeigst, bleibst du.“ At this moment, a couple of individuals are not delivering results. I mentioned it to one of them today at the chapel. Your performance is lacking.

“You know, many people are saying that the governor wants to disband the exco. These individuals have not even received any communication from me; this merely demonstrates that people enjoy talking excessively.

The governor emphasized the necessity for commissioners to take initiative and be visible.

He demonstrated his administration’s dedication to accountability by ensuring that each commissioner was directly responsible for the progress of their respective ministry.

Oborevwori äußerte. “We don’t see you as a commissioner. You engage in conversation, bring your memo with you, and search for the governor, as the governor will not seek you out.

“Others are looking for me; you need to infuse your ministry with energy and initiative.

Read Also: Why Everyone Should Support Okanga for the Total Transformation of Enone

“If a ministry has an issue, the commissioner should be held accountable. Any ministry that performs excellently indicates that the commissioner is performing excellently.

„Wir haben viele Projekte, die wir einweihen müssen. I doubt we will halt before this year finishes. Although we might not manage to inaugurate all of them, I trust that we will put forth our best effort.

“Our aim is to follow Mr President’s example of what he accomplished on Saturday at the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road inauguration. They expressed all the projects and made a decision to remain in one specific place to launch them.

He pledged to launch all his projects in Warri and make them visible for everyone.

Why Everyone Should Support Okanga for the Total Transformation of Enone

0

Every generation sees a leader who changes the possibilities for his or her people. For Enone, Chief Philip Agbese is a visionary leader who, because of his demonstrated track record, unflinching integrity and strong relationship with the people, is the perfect champion to completely change Ado, Okpokwu and Ogbadibo. His leadership involves actual, quantifiable progress affecting every life, not only empty promises. Here is why every Enone son and daughter should support Okanga for the greatest growth of our home.
A LEADER FULFILLING HIS COMMITMENT
Among a political scene of shattered promises, Okanga is unique as a man of his word. His successes clearly show:
1. Better road systems linking villages to markets and schools
2. Updated medical facilities cut down on preventable mortality.
3. Educational changes involving scholarship programs and refurbished institutions
4. Programs for youth and women’s empowerment generating employment and reducing poverty

Read Also: Governor Agbu Kefas Unveils Free Education and Development Blueprint for Taraba State

Once Okanga agrees to a project, he follows it through. Supporting him means helping a future when commitments are fulfilled.
ACCOUNTABILITY AND TRANSPARENCY-BASED GOVERNANCE
Unlike leaders who view public office as a business venture, Okanga runs with honesty and openness. He makes sure every project follows an appropriate process. Public funds are recorded and utilized exclusively for development. The government keeps the citizens current on activities. This unusual openness has rebuilt leadership trust and shown that Enone’s assets are secure in his grip.
A LEADER WHO PAYS ATTENTION TO PEOPLE FIRST
Together with compassion, Okanga’s leadership is inclusive. He listens in villages, businesses and town halls; he does not only rule from an office. The Farmers’ actual needs, which now have improved market access, shape his policies. Skills training and company subsidies help women to become empowered. Youths have chances in business and academics. Older people now benefit from improved social services and healthcare. Under his direction, no one is left behind.
A BLUEPRINT FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
Temporary solutions are not in Okanga’s philosophy; his initiatives aim for long-term effects. His projects create jobs and support neighborhood enterprises, therefore empowering economically; future-proof, they ensure Enone flourishes for generations; and community-driven, they engage the people in decision-making.
Supporting Okanga means investing in a self-sustaining Enone.
THE UNIFYING FORCE ENONE NEEDS
Apart from development, Okanga has encouraged hope and unity in Enone. His guidance crossed political and local boundaries. He has motivated a new generation to have faith in public service. Enone has become a model for excellent governance in the area thanks to him. Together with Okanga, we are creating a legacy of advancement.

SAN Disclaims Asabe Waziri Induced Police Charge Against Abuja Lawyer, Victor Giwa

0

Respected legal luminary and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Prof. Awa U. Kalu, has formally distanced himself from the ongoing criminal prosecution of Abuja-based lawyer, Victor Giwa, by the police over alleged forgery and impersonation.

Victor Giwa had in a letter to the Inspector General of Police, Mr Kayode Egbetokun, dated 23rd May, 2025, asked the IGP to probe the allegation of financial inducement to charge him to court.

Specifically, Giwa called on the mrEgbetokun, to investigate the Commissioner of Police, legal services of the Nigeria Police, Chiozoba Oyakhire Ehiede and Ms Asabe Waziri, over allegation of frivolous xharge filed against him and one other.

He called on the IGP to probe the connection between the CP, Legal Services of the Nigeria Police and Asbe Waziri, a staff of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited.

Professor Kalu, in a letter dated May 30, 2025, addressed to the Inspector General of Police, clarified that he neither filed a complaint nor reported Mr. Giwa for allegedly forging his firm’s letterhead.

The letter comes in response to Charge No. CR/150/25 instituted by the police, in which Mr. Giwa is accused of forging the official letterhead of “Awa U. Kalu (SAN) & Partners”—formerly “Awa U. Kalu (SAN) & Associates”—to communicate with the Attorney General of the Federation.

Prof. Kalu wrote, “I wish to inform you that the internet is agog with news that a charge is preferred against the above named gentleman, indicating that he forged my official headed paper.

“Please note that I have neither filed a complaint nor have I incidented a report at any Police Station in Nigeria indicating that Mr. Victor Giwa forged my official headed paper.”

The clarification by Prof. Kalu significantly undercuts the foundation of the forgery allegation, which reportedly hinges on the unauthorized use of his firm’s name and letterhead. His statement suggests there was no formal accusation from the primary party whose identity was allegedly misused.

Legal analysts now question the legitimacy—and potential ulterior motives—of the police’s decision to file such a sensitive criminal case without consulting or securing a complaint from the alleged “victim.”

Victor Giwa has maintained his innocence, insisting that the letter in question was issued within the bounds of a legitimate legal relationship and did not involve any act of deception or forgery.

A lawyer and a member of Nigerian Bar Association Garki branch member who spoke to BarristerNG on the condition of anonymity wondered why the Police will charge a defendant to Court without a Petition or official complaint from a complainant.

Read Also: Wike Speaks Out: Why I Wouldn’t Have Supported Rivers Emergency Rule If Consulted by Tinubu

“Given the absence of a petition from Awa Kalu SAN and his clear disapproval of the police’s criminal framing, one wonders who will benefit from these charges, and why now?”…. he said.

Last week, Barrister Giwa wrote to the IGP, seeking his intervention to unravel the connection between Asabe Waziri and CP Legal, the withdrawal of the charge against him and re-investigation of charge no: CR/150/25 between IGP v. Victor Giwa and another

According to him, he is being charged to court for standing against falsehood and lies and insisting that the right thing should be done.

Parts of the letter read, “I write to report the various illegal and unlawful activities carried out against me by CP CHIOZOBA OYAKHIRE EHIEDE and Asabe Waziri

“Asabe Waziri who is a senior management staff of Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has been boasting about how she use the police to deal with me, by charging me with various offences , to deter me
from opposing his Illegal and unlawful action against me and my client Cecil Osakwe.

“The CP Legal knowingly, gave unlawful advisory to the IGP in aid of ASABE WAZIRI and caused officers of the Nigeria police force led by Csp Maga, to FORCEFULLY BREAK INTO AN APARTMENT destroying doors and forcefully putting ASABE WAZIRI in possession of a the flats situated at NO 1 Mekong close Maitama, Abuja.

“This was done on the June 26th 2024, while there was pending application for STAY OF EXECUTION, Notice of Appeal with Appeal NO: CA/ABJ/CV/246/2022 to the Court of Appeal and positive Order of Court in High Court Keffi , Nasarawa State in Suit no: NSD/K70F /2024, served on Asabe Waziri and the Police.

“In a reckless manner, I was arrested as the lawyer to Cecil Osakwe and the Abeh Signature Apartment forcefully taken to the apartment and made to open the flats. I insisted that I will not be able to do that, since that matter is subject of litigation in both the Supreme Court and the High Court.

“However, at the instance and advice of CP Legal, the police officers break the doors of the flats and put Asabe Waziri in possession. Asabe Waziri has remained in the flats till date.

“The CP legal, knowing that I will insist on the lawful action, conspired with Asabe Waziri to fetch and fish out different cases against me to set me up with the aim of raising charges against me.

“The CP Legal is using his office, to raise charges agaitist me with the intention of silencing me from speaking out against his illegal and unlawful despicable action , that puts the imtage of the Nigerian police into disrepute, just to favour Asabe Waziti. As at today, the CP has filed charges against me at the instance of Asabe Waziri’s petition.

“The Charge with Charge NO: CR/150/25 filed at the FCT High Court is aimed at embarrassing and harassing me to satisfy the boasting and the yearnings of Asabe Waziri .

“I humbly submit, that the current charge against me in Charge NO:CR/150/25 is baseless, frivolous and vindictive. It is self-serving and is borne out of Asabe Waztri’s quest to use the CP legal to “deal with me”.

Wike Speaks Out: Why I Wouldn’t Have Supported Rivers Emergency Rule If Consulted by Tinubu

0

Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has declared that he would not have consented to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu if they had talked about his intention to announce a State of Emergency in Rivers State.
Wike stated that he is not in conflict with Siminalayi Fubara, the suspended Governor of Rivers State.
He emphasized his disagreement with the State of Emergency rule, asserting that only the President knows when it should be lifted.

During a conversation with reporters in Abuja on Monday, Wike noted that Fubara has allowed himself to be influenced by his opponents to stand against him.

Read Also: Transfer Buzz: Benfica Eyes Arokodare, Boniface at €50M, Delap’s Chelsea Prospects Debated

The FCT Minister stated: “I clarified that this impunity will not be tolerated, so what is occurring in the PDP is what I refer to as undertakers because I see no reason for you to place yourself in such a crisis. “ I have no crises with him (Fubara). I am not the President who announced a State of Emergency; had Mr President called me, I wouldn’t have consented to the State of Emergency.

“He understands when to lift, he has everything on his table, I don’t know. I have never been in favor of it.

“However, my point was that the state of emergency was declared to save the governor from imminent impeachment.

“I’m not the one in crisis; instead, the governor has, unbeknownst to me, made himself a tool for those unable to fight me directly.”