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“Wike’s betrayal is limitless” – Ex-APC spokesperson cautions Tinubu

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“Wike’s betrayal is limitless” – Ex-APC spokesperson cautions Tinubu

Timi Frank, a former deputy national publicity secretary for the All Progressives Congress (APC), has denounced the recent verbal assault on former Rivers State Governor Dr. Peter Odili by Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, Frank characterized Wike’s remarks as an example of his tendency to abandon comrades and donors.

The controversy started when Wike called Odili a “ingrate” and a “rent seeker” for allegedly backing the current Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, at a Special Thanksgiving Service hosted by the Rivers State House of Assembly’s factional Speaker, Martin Amaewhule, at the Church of the Holy Spirit in Port Harcourt.

Frank responded to the situation by saying that Wike’s comments show his “irredeemable unpredictability” and his propensity to turn friends into enemies.

There have been previous instances, and this will not be the final one. Wike’s betrayal of former President Goodluck Jonathan and his wife, Patience, after they backed his political ascent is well known to Nigerians.

“Despite greatly benefiting from Rotimi Amaechi, another of his political benefactors, he also worked against him,” Frank said.

In order to guarantee the PDP’s defeat in the 2023 presidential election, Frank charged Wike with sabotaging the party by creating coalitions.

Read Also: NDLEA Kaduna operation: 1,290 suspects arrested, 4,500kg drugs seized in 2024

He claimed that Wike’s present course of action is a component of a larger plan to destabilize the PDP in the run-up to the 2027 elections.

Frank asserted that all of his antics in the FCT, including finishing and commissioning projects, were part of his strategy to establish himself as a serious contender for president in 2027.

Predicting that Wike’s allegiance would change as the 2027 elections draw near, he cautioned President Bola Tinubu to exercise caution in his interactions with the minister.

“Wike frequently betrays his allies when they are most in need, much like Brutus in Julius Caesar. According to Wike, loyalty to political connections is unacceptable. “No one else should be in charge if he isn’t,” Frank warned.

Insisting that Wike’s political maneuvers would eventually threaten the president himself, Frank encouraged Tinubu to maintain his vigilance.

NDLEA Kaduna operation: 1,290 suspects arrested, 4,500kg drugs seized in 2024

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NDLEA Kaduna operation: 1,290 suspects arrested, 4,500kg drugs seized in 2024

In 2024, the Kaduna State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) reported that it had apprehended 1,290 people and confiscated 4,589.361 kg of illegal narcotics.

Mr. Samaila Danmalam, the Commander of the NDLEA Kaduna State Command, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Kaduna on Tuesday that the arrests and seizures took place between January and December 2024.

Danmalam clarified that in order to eradicate drug usage and illegal trafficking, the Command used a kinetic approach. 1,290 people, including drug traffickers, illegal drug users, and other enablers of drug-related crimes, were arrested as a result of the multiple assignments and raid operations that were conducted.
Operations and seizures

Furthermore, 4,589.361 kg of hard drugs, including cocaine, marijuana, methamphetamine, tramadol, rohypnol, and other psychiatric substances, were seized as a result of the operations.

He continued by saying that during its activities during that time, the command intercepted 2,023 9mm and 7.62mm rounds of ammunition in addition to two firearms: an English handgun and a locally made pistol.

Operational and financial achievements
In addition, the command removed 124 illegal drug shops that were used as gathering places for illegal activity and confiscated counterfeit N4.8 million worth of N1,000 notes.

Danmalam underlined that “kinetic means alone cannot win the drug war.”

The command stepped up its efforts in 2024 by holding awareness lectures, sensitization campaigns, counseling drug users, and rehabilitating others to help them become contributing members of society again.

Convictions and prosecutions
Additionally, Danmalam stated that 155 of the 189 individuals who were prosecuted in court were found guilty and given terms ranging from two to fifteen years in prison.

He thanked the media, community-based organizations, civil society organizations, traditional leaders, community heads, the Kaduna State Government, and other security agencies for their cooperation and assistance.

Read Also: Gunmen attack Burial preparations in Anambra, leave 7 dead

Danmalam urged everyone to keep sending timely and helpful information to help the command reach a drug-free state.

Additional Perspectives
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) recently claimed that six foreign people had been arrested and 1,960 kg of cannabis had been intercepted at Eleko Beach in Lekki, Lagos.

Additionally, Kosisochukwu Ozigbo (21) was arrested by NDLEA agents on December 23 after they conducted a raid on New Lagos Road in Benin City, Edo State. 32,490 Tramadol pills, 936 bottles of codeine-based syrup, and many narcotics were found on the suspect.

Apart from its initiatives against drug lords, NDLEA persisted in promoting its War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) programs across the country, stepping up public awareness and education about the risks associated with drug misuse.

Marketers predict fuel price changes as Warri refinery resumes operations

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Marketers predict fuel price changes as Warri refinery resumes operations

Following the start of operations at the Warri refinery, oil industry marketers have alluded to a potential drop in fuel prices.

After almost ten years of inactivity, the refinery began operating at 60 percent capacity on Monday, December 30, according to a statement from the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL).

The Independent Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) and the Major Energy Marketers’ Association of Nigeria (MEMAN) responded to the news by praising the Federal Government and the NNPCL for the accomplishment.

The marketers stated that the Warri refinery’s operations will rely on supplier diversification and competitiveness.

They went on to say that lower petroleum product prices will result from the facility’s renovation.

The new refinery is the quickest way to go to the northern region of the country, according to Clem Isong, MEMAN’s executive secretary.

“We are diversifying our supply and the market is becoming more competitive,” he stated.

“There are a lot of factors that affect price, and you can always get your product at the best price because competition is always good,” Isong stated.

Read Also: Gunmen attack Burial preparations in Anambra, leave 7 dead

According to Olanrewaju Okanlawon, IPMAN’s public relations officer, a fall in product prices would result from an overall surplus of supply.

“If there is excess supply, it will continue to drive down the price,” he said.

“Now that we have a free market, supply and demand govern it. The price reduction will continue. Lagos would become less congested, Okanlawon stated.

Gunmen attack Burial preparations in Anambra, leave 7 dead

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Gunmen attack Burial preparations in Anambra, leave 7 dead

On Monday, December 30, 2024, two security personnel and five others were killed when unknown gunmen stormed a funeral preparation location in Anambra State’s Ihiala Local Government Area.

Anambra State Police spokesperson Tochukwu Ikenga said in a statement that the event happened at approximately 11:20 a.m.

Photographs released with the police statement show that members of the Anambra State Vigilante Group were among the victims.

According to reports, the assailants entered the location and started shooting intermittently at the people within.

Two security personnel who were positioned at a nearby observation point near the Ihiala Local Government Headquarters along the express road were shot by the militants during their escape.

Read Also: Ogun State Governor Names Anthony Joshua as Sports Ambassador

Two unarmed bystanders were among the seven people who died. One victim was rescued by a joint security team and is presently being treated at an undisclosed facility.

Nnaghe Obono, the commissioner of police for Anambra State, has directed that the offenders be sought out immediately. He pledged to see that justice is done and offered his sympathies to the victims’ families.

This attack is the most recent in a string of violent events that have targeted people, government officials, and security forces in Anambra and other southeastern states.

Ogun State Governor Names Anthony Joshua as Sports Ambassador

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Ogun State Governor Names Anthony Joshua as Sports Ambassador

Boxer Anthony Joshua has been named Ogun State’s sports ambassador by Governor Dapo Abiodun.

During a courtesy call at Government House in Abeokuta, Abiodun, the appointment was made.

Joshua was given a letter by Governor Abiodun confirming his designation as Sports Ambassador. Joshua’s dedication, discipline, and excellence were commended by the governor, who pointed out that these qualities are consistent with the state’s principles.

In addition, the 35-year-old boxer will ignite the torch for the Gateway Games National Sports Festival, which has been rescheduled for May of the following year.

Read Also: Benue Rep Splashes ₦11 Million on Party for Christmas

“In addition to the fact that we are going to formally confirm you as our sports ambassador today, I would like to publicly ask that you return and light the Gateway Sports Festival torch; you will be the one doing so,” Abiodun stated.

“To make sure that you return home more often, we are planning to build a brand-new Anthony Joshua Indoor Boxing Ring at a stadium here in Abeokuta. We have chosen to give you a brand-new home in Sagamu in addition to the fact that you are now our official sports ambassador,” he stated.

Joshua conveyed his appreciation for the opportunity and the appointment. Additionally, he praised Abiodun’s daughter, calling her “amazing and intelligent.”

Benue Rep Splashes ₦11 Million on Party for Christmas

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Benue Rep Splashes ₦11 Million on Party for Christmas

In a remarkable show of leadership and compassion, Chief (Dr.) Philip Agbese, the esteemed member representing Ado, Ogbadibo, and Okpokwu Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, has once again demonstrated his unwavering commitment to the welfare of his people. Fondly referred to as Okanga K’Agila, Dr. Agbese has donated a substantial ₦11 million to members of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Enone chapter, as part of his annual tradition of spreading joy and empowerment during the Christmas season.

The grand event, held under the auspices of the state chairman of the APC, Comrade Austin Agada, was a convergence of political heavyweights, party stalwarts, and notable figures from Enone’s political landscape. Among those in attendance were former House of Representatives member for Ado, Ogbadibo, and Okpokwu Federal Constituency, Hon. David Idoko; former Chief Medical Director of the Federal Medical Centre, Makurdi, and a former governorship candidate, Dr. Mathias Oyigeya; former House of Assembly member for Ogbadibo State Constituency, Hon. Moses Oduh; immediate past chairman of the APC, Comrade Abba Yaro; leader of the APC in Ado Local Government, Barr. Ochai Onazi; Chief Matthew Ukpojo, and a host of others. The gathering was not only an opportunity for party faithful to celebrate the yuletide season but also a platform to honor Dr. Agbese for his outstanding service to the people. During the occasion, a vote of confidence was unanimously passed on the lawmaker, applauding his visionary leadership and impactful representation at the National Assembly.

Chief (Dr.) Philip Agbese’s tenure in the House of Representatives has been marked by an unwavering commitment to service delivery, grassroots empowerment, and people-oriented projects. This latest donation adds to his already impressive legacy of giving back to the people who entrusted him with their mandate. Beyond the monetary donation, Dr. Agbese rolled out an empowerment package aimed at improving the living standards of his constituents. Thousands of bags of rice were distributed to families, ensuring that the festive season was celebrated in abundance.

Additionally, the lawmaker provided critical tools to boost economic activities in the constituency. These included tricycles (Keke Napep), motorcycles, sewing machines, and fertilizers for farmers. These items were strategically distributed to individuals based on their needs, reinforcing Dr. Agbese’s commitment to sustainable empowerment and self-reliance among his constituents. Farmers, artisans, and small-scale traders in the area expressed their appreciation for the thoughtful gesture, describing it as a game-changer for their livelihoods.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Agbese reiterated his dedication to the principles of good governance, inclusive representation, and effective service delivery. He emphasized that the welfare of his constituents remains his top priority and promised to continue initiating programs and policies that would uplift the Enone community. “This is a season of love, giving, and unity. My focus is to ensure that every member of our constituency feels the warmth and joy of this season while also laying the foundation for economic empowerment that transcends the festivities,” he stated.

The state chairman of the APC commended Dr. Agbese for his exceptional leadership and his ability to inspire confidence among party members and constituents alike. He noted that the lawmaker’s initiatives have set a new standard for political representation and demonstrated what true leadership entails.

Party members and other attendees expressed their heartfelt gratitude, describing Dr. Agbese as a beacon of hope for the constituency. They lauded his hands-on approach to governance, which has bridged the gap between the people and their representative at the federal level.

Chief (Dr.) Philip Agbese’s consistent efforts to empower his constituents have earned him widespread admiration and respect. This Christmas donation and empowerment drive serve as yet another testament to his unwavering dedication to the well-being and progress of the Enone people. As the festivities continue, Dr. Agbese’s gesture will undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on the hearts of many, solidifying his reputation as a leader who truly cares for his people.

Christopher Onyeke
Public Affairs Analyst
24/12/2024

Santa Okanga: The Echoes Of Seasonless Philanthropy

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Santa Okanga: The Echoes Of Seasonless Philanthropy

By Sunny Green Itodo

In the shadow of the Sahara, there is a drum that beats year-round! The melody of this esteemed and revered drum attracts birds of the air to a feast, fish in the water to a celebration, and beasts of the earth to a banquet, uniting brothers for the grand opera of moonlight.

This drum serves as a metaphor for the Honourable member of the House of Representatives representing the Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo Federal Constituency and Deputy Spokesman of the House, High Chief Philip Agbese (Esq), known as the Okanga Isinabo (Talking Drum) 1 of Agila. He is a man whose philanthropy resonates throughout the year.

In the spirit of Christmas and its tradition of giving, I truly admire Okanga’s distinctive approach to philanthropy, which is not limited to a specific season. The main difference between Okanga and the legendary Santa Claus is that while Santa brings gifts to children only on Christmas, Okanga provides support and gifts to people of all ages throughout the entire year.

In contrast to many Nigerian philanthropists and politicians who fit the Santa Claus stereotype, offering seasonal philanthropy, Okanga stands out as a selfless and constant giver. His name represents not just an identity but also a beacon of hope, kindness, and joy.

Interestingly, philanthropy is a fundamental part of Okanga’s lifestyle rather than simply a political endeavor. Long before he was called to represent his community in the Green Chamber, he had already embraced a lifestyle of giving. I recall many of his acts of kindness even before his political rise. For instance, he gifted a brand-new motorcycle to the long-forgotten Idoma folk singer, Madam Igbe. He provided financial grants to elderly individuals and those less privileged in Enone. He also offered scholarships to hundreds of Enone students and empowered the youth while promoting community service. There are numerous other acts of generosity that I cannot recall at the moment, but his contributions are abundant and noteworthy.

Many people who were unaware of the unique phenomenon known as Okanga initially believed that his generous philanthropic efforts were merely a way to attract public votes. However, to their surprise, his acts of kindness only increased with the new responsibilities and opportunities that accompanied his position in office.

In addition to the unprecedented infrastructure and development projects he is implementing in Enone, the visionary Okanga has actively engaged in numerous humanitarian and human development initiatives. One such project involved training over 100 youths in information and communication technology (ICT), of which I am a grateful beneficiary. The trainees received ICT equipment and stipends to support their learning.

Okanga has empowered thousands of his constituents by providing them with motorcycles, tricycles, grinding machines, and other business equipment within just one year in office. Additionally, hundreds of students have benefited from his scholarship program during this time.

Even during this ‘season of giving,’ Okanga continues to be active. He is quickly becoming Benue South’s leading philanthropist this season. He has started distributing bags of rice, gallons of cooking oil, cartons of seasoning cubes, and various other food items to help alleviate the effects of the current economic hardship on his constituents.

As a consequence of Santa Okanga’s extraordinary philanthropy, “Okanga 4+4” is poised to become the new Christmas song in Enone. There is a widespread consensus urging for the amiable lawmaker to be reelected in 2027 as a gesture of appreciation for his unwavering leadership and sagacity. As the saying goes, one good turn deserves another.

The key lesson from High Chief Philip Agbese’s philosophy is that giving should not be limited to a certain season. It should occur at all times, as hunger and needs do not follow a seasonal pattern. His exemplary lifestyle serves as an inspiration for everyone.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year in advance!

Sunny Green Itodo, a Public Affairs commentator writes from Otukpa, Ogbadibo LGA, Benue State.

Ademola Lookman’s transfer market value increases by €15 Million

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Ademola Lookman’s transfer market value increases by €15 Million

The market worth of Super Eagles winger Ademola Lookman has increased significantly, and it is currently believed to be €55 million.
Ademola Lookman is now Nigeria’s second most valuable player, trailing only Victor Osimhen at €75 million, thanks to the €15 million boost, surpassing Bayer Leverkusen’s Victor Boniface, who is valued at €45 million.
Lookman’s exceptional performance earned him the 2024 CAF Player of the Year award, defeating strong competitors like Guinea’s Serhou Guirassy, Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi, South African goalkeeper Ronwen Williams, and Ivory Coast’s Simon Adingra. Furthermore, Lookman came in at number 14 in the 2024 Ballon d’Or rankings.
The 27-year-old winger has solidified his place among Nigeria’s best football players with his ascent over the last two seasons. He was valued at €30 million at the end of 2023, but a stellar year saw his market value rise by an astounding €25 million, or 83.33%.

His price increased to €40 million by June 2024 following his outstanding performance in the UEFA Europa League final, where he scored a hat-trick in Atalanta’s 3-0 victory over Leverkusen to secure the team’s first European trophy.

The African Ballon d’Or was a fitting way for Lookman to end his stellar 2024, according to Transfermarkt’s Italy Area Manager Jatin Dietl. He has been in outstanding form, contributing significantly to Atalanta’s accomplishments and helping the team win its first international championship.

Major European teams like PSG, Arsenal, and Liverpool were interested in Lookman before he reached this peak and said they wanted to recruit him last summer. But as the season goes on, Atalanta may find it difficult to hold onto his skills.

Atalanta President Antonio Percassi has made it clear that the team intends to retain Lookman during the January transfer window, despite the increasing interest. He said, “Our plan is not to change anything in the January window,” in reference to the forward’s future.

Tinubu Administration Cuts Interstate Transport Fares by 50%

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Tinubu Administration Cuts Interstate Transport Fares by 50%

For the Yuletide season, the government of President Bola Tinubu announced on Thursday that interstate transportation fares would be cut by 50%.
For Nigerians traveling to celebrate Christmas and New Year’s, the Federal Government decided to lower travel costs.

Olujimi Oyetomi, the Ministry of Transportation’s Director of Press and Public Relations, said this in a statement.

According to the statement, “Patronages will board buses to their destinations for only 50% of fares, as declared by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to commence the 2024 Yuletide road transportation.”

A larger plan to provide transportation palliatives for Nigerians enjoying Christmas and New Year’s Eve was announced by President Bola Tinubu.

Adeleye Adeoye, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Transportation, represented Senator Said Alkali, the Minister of Transportation, who presided over the signing event.

Read Also: Fani-Kayode Criticizes Badenoch: ‘Nigerian Police Guard Your Mum in Lagos’

The Federal Government inked an MOU with important transportation stakeholders, such as God is Good Motors, the Association of Luxurious Bus Owners of Nigeria, the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria, and the National Union of Road Transport Workers.

Passengers will only pay half the regular ticket when they depart from Abuja and Lagos (Oshodi) to various places throughout the nation under the arrangement.

Osun LG Election: OSSIEC Set to Hire 8,000 Adhoc Staff

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Osun LG Election: OSSIEC Set to Hire 8,000 Adhoc Staff

In advance of the local government elections scheduled for February 22, 2025, the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission, or OSSIEC, has revealed plans to hire more than 8,000 ad hoc employees.

The action is a component of the commission’s endeavors to guarantee smooth elections across the state.

Members of the Osun State House of Assembly Committee on Local Government, headed by Olujimi Asagade, visited Osogbo on Thursday, where OSSIEC Chairman Hashim Abioye gave a speech.

He emphasized that the polling preparations were almost finished.

He gave stakeholders his word that the commission was prepared to hold free and fair elections.

He emphasized the Commission’s independence while pointing out that there was no outside intervention, especially from the state’s administrative branch and state governor Ademola Adeleke.

Additionally, he emphasized his dedication to upholding neutrality during the election process.

“I can assure you that we are completely prepared for the elections,” he remarked. In order to guarantee a more effective method, we are utilizing technology to hire ad hoc workers.

“A throng would have crowded our premises if we hadn’t taken that action. For the elections, we will require more than 8,000 ad hoc employees.

Abioye stated that the Commission’s facilities had been upgraded and that a functional portal had been set up for hiring and other preparation tasks.

“The commission has put technologies in place to monitor actions at polling places, even though the voting process won’t be entirely electronic.

Read Also: Fani-Kayode Criticizes Badenoch: ‘Nigerian Police Guard Your Mum in Lagos’

Although the results won’t be sent electronically, we can keep an eye on events in each polling station thanks to the facilities we have on site. To do that, we have digital equipment,” he continued.

“I can tell you most sincerely that Governor Ademola Adeleke is not interfering with our duties,” Abioye said, restating OSSIEC’s independence. In order to foster trust, we are also including the Inter-Party Advisory Council into all of our endeavors.

“We are grateful to the House for providing us with a sound statute to work within. Other states are now using Osun’s local government election law as a model.

Asagade said that the Assembly was prepared to assist the commission in holding an election that would be acceptable to all parties involved and commended the OSSIEC Chairman for providing a solid basis for the commission.

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