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Governor Fintiri bans activities of scavengers rummaging through waste in state

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Adamawa State Governor, Ahmadu Fintiri has signed an Executive Order banning the activities of scavengers in the state.
In a statement by Humwashi Wonosikou, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, he said the prohibition takes immediate effect and will remain in force in all 21 Local Government Areas of Adamawa State until further notice.
“For the purpose of this Order, “scavenging” means the act of rummaging through waste or engaging in any activity that constitutes a nuisance or health hazard,” it said.
The Order warns that any person who engages in scavenging commits a criminal offence and shall be liable to arrest and prosecution.
The statement said security agents operating in the state have been empowered to search and arrest any person who violates this order.
It added that any person who ”circumvents or attempts to interfere with the free exercise of the office of the Governor, hides or offers cash or subverts the course of execution in any way shall be prosecuted in line with the provisions of Section 5(2) and (3) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 as amended, and the Adamawa State Penal Code Law, 2018”.
”Therefore any person who violates this Order is guilty of an offence and shall be liable to six months imprisonment, a fine of 100,000 or both imprisonment and fine.
”This Executive Order serves as a strong warning to all scavengers and those who engage in such activities.
”The Adamawa State Government will not tolerate any actions that compromise the health, safety, and well-being of its citizens; violators will be dealt with swiftly and decisively”.
It urged all citizens to cooperate with the government in maintaining a clean and healthy environment.
Governor Fintiri bans activities of scavengers rummaging through waste in state

NYSC demobilises 54 UNICAL graduates illegally called for national service

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The National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, has demobilised 54 graduates of the University of Calabar who were illegally registered for national service by crooks in the university system.
A statement by the NYSC Director of Information and Public Relations, Eddy Megwa said another 19 initially registered online for mobilisation have been prevented from service while four Certificates of National Service for other culprits were not produced by the scheme
He said the culprits would be prosecuted in accordance with the law, adding that in its continuous efforts to prevent unqualified graduates from getting the NYSC Certificate National Service, a total of 54 Corps members that were illegally mobilized by the University of Calabar were demobilised by the scheme.
Mr Megwa said, “Another 19 among them that initially registered online for mobilisation have been prevented from service, while four Certificates of National Service for other culprits were not produced by the scheme.
“This is in addition to the earlier one hundred and one, 101, certificates recently voided by the scheme, making a total of 178
The statement said the NYSC Director General lauded the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Calabar, Professor Florence Obi for her forthrightness to have earlier hinted the Corps of the mobilisation of unqualified graduates from her institution.
The DG said the NYSC would leave no stone unturned in sanitising its mobilisation process.
He said: “The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Calabar came here to report that she observed some names appeared on the institution’s list and they ought not to have been there.
“She checked the list the school gave us and I told her that their certificates would be invalidated. I give kudos to the Vice-Chancellor.
NYSC demobilises 54 UNICAL graduates illegally called for national service

Jigawa solicits FG support as flood ravages 12 LGs

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The Jigawa State Government has called on the Federal Government to come to the aid of flood victims in the state as no fewer than 3,834 persons have been displaced by the disaster.

The Executive Secretary of the State Emergency Management Agency, Dr. Haruna Mairiga, made the call in Dutse, the state capital on Friday while speaking to newsmen on the update on the flood which ravaged 12 local governments.

He said the call was necessary in order to ameliorate the sufferings and hardship being experienced by the numerous communities in the 12 affected local government areas.

“As Iam talking to you now a total of 3, 834 persons have been displaced from their houses and no fewer than 2,744 hectares of farmlands have been washed away by the flood across the 12 affected LGAs.

“We are appealing to the Federal Government, philanthropists as well as donor agencies to assist the victims,” he said.

He pointed out that from August 1 to 13, 2024, the state has witnessed intermittent rainfall leading to several incidences of flood and death of more than 16 persons and the destruction of farmlands and houses.

Mairiga noted that the affected local government areas, include: Buji, Kafin Hausa, Auyo, Hadejia, Birniwa, Malam madori, Garki, Taura, Gwaram, Dutse, Kiyawa and Jahun.

He said the state government under the leadership of Governor Umar Namadi is doing a lot to protect and sustain the livelihood of the citizens, but then, when disaster comes all hands, must be on deck to support the government efforts.

“It is pertinent that we should start soliciting urgent humanitarian support to assist the internally displaced persons with either food or non-food items to be able to support the victims during the trying time and to rehabilitate them back to their houses when the flood draws back,” he said.

Mairiga revealed that the agency has supported the affected communities with palliative items as an Interim measure pending the arrival of the Federal Government’s assistance.

He added that the items donated comprised foodstuffs, rubber mats, blankets, mosquito nets and money among others.

Also speaking, the chairman of Kiyaye Local Government Area, Mansur Musa, said many villages and local government secretariat have been submerged by water.

According to him, most of the people affected by the flood have been resettled in some primary and secondary schools in the area.

FIRS seeks legislative backing to regulate crypto industry

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The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) is seeking the support of the National Assembly to enact a comprehensive law regulating the cryptocurrency industry in Nigeria.
The move comes as the government grapples with the challenges and opportunities presented by this rapidly evolving digital asset.
FIRS Executive Chairman Zacch Adedeji made the announcement, on Saturday, at a stakeholder engagement with the Senate and House Committee on Finance.
He emphasized the need for a legal framework to govern the cryptocurrency market, ensuring its contribution to the country’s economic development while mitigating potential risks.
Adedeji highlighted the FIRS’ plans to introduce a comprehensive bill that would overhaul the entire revenue administration process in Nigeria. This legislation aims to harmonize, recodify, and simplify existing tax laws, including those related to the digital economy.
READ ALSO:Nigeria’s inflation rate drops to 33.40% in July, first in 19 months
He said, “The plan first is to have the law that regulates it, and that is why you see that we are here with the legislature, which will be the base of charging. And that is done in any other place in the world when you have this innovation or system, so you just have to get ready for it because you can’t go away from it. So we just have to plan to regulate it in such a way that it is not injurious to the economic development of Nigeria.”
During his opening speech, Adedeji informed the lawmakers about the proposed bill.
He told them, “Just to put you on notice, by September, we are proposing a law that would overhaul the whole process of revenue administration in Nigeria, harmonising, recoding and simplifying the tax laws that we have. For example, in the Stamp Duty Act of 1939, when there was no internet connection, we needed to bring it up.
“Today, we cannot run away from cryptocurrency but as we stand today, there is no law anywhere in Nigeria that regulates cryptocurrency. We cannot run away from it.”
The FIRS recognizes the growing importance of cryptocurrency and the need for a regulatory framework to address its unique characteristics. By establishing clear rules and guidelines, the government can promote responsible innovation and protect investors.
The proposed legislation is expected to be presented to the National Assembly in September. Its passage would mark a significant step towards establishing a regulatory environment for the cryptocurrency industry in Nigeria.
The post FIRS seeks legislative backing to regulate crypto industry appeared first on Latest Nigeria News | Top Stories from TVN.

Police warn vigilantes against use of excessive force

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Vigilantes operating in Warri and environs in Delta State have been warned against using excessive force on civilians.

The Warri Area Commander of the Nigeria Police, Mr. Imade Graham, gave the warning while addressing members of the Warri Correspondents Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists on Friday.

The police boss who called for synergy and collaboration with the NUJ in ensuring sanity in Delta communities disclosed that vigilantes in Warri and its environs are to undergo “necessary orientation on community policing to inject sanity into their operations.”

While commending vigilantes, as members of the neighbourhood watch, for their efforts at curtailing insecurity in their respective communities, the Police Area Commander however took exception to the excesses of some vigilantes, “especially when they impact negatively on members of the public.

“There is no reason or legal backing for vigilantes to use excessive force on any civilian.  This will certainly be addressed to the roots”, he said, adding that “They should not be a nuisance to members of the public.”

The Area Commander promised to “talk to the Divisional Police Officers to monitor the excesses of vigilantes including their ways of dressing as some impostors claim to be police officers.”

He said, “Orientation shall be conducted for them. They are voluntary bodies helping us in the areas of curbing crimes.

“They are not expected to set up roadblocks, or operate especially along the expressway, without the presence of policemen.
Orientation shall be conducted for them and we will look at all these.”

He however noted with delight that “crime statistics dropped considerably” in Warri and its environs in recent times and attributed the development to “proactive policing” by the officers and men.

In the fast-approaching Ember months, the Police Area Commander disclosed that an operation order had already been set up by the Command.

“Certainly, we are going to follow them wholeheartedly to ensure there is safety within Warri and environs generally”, he assured.

Peter Obi calls for action against insecurity, economic hardship

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Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has sounded the alarm on Nigeria’s escalating insecurity and economic woes, urging collective action to tackle the growing crises.
In a statement issued on Saturday via his X handle, Obi highlighted recent kidnappings, including the abduction of medical students in Benue and a state commissioner and his wife in Edo, emphasizing the need for a unified response.
“It’s time to declare war on this massive insecurity and other ills threatening our society,” Obi said, calling for bold action and a united front against the challenges facing the nation.
The former Anambra State Governor stressed that Nigerians cannot continue living in fear and uncertainty, emphasizing the need to build a safer, more prosperous, and just society for all.
READ ALSO:Peter Obi demands urgent action to prevent further collapse of Nigeria’s economy
“In the last 24 hours, several people have been kidnapped across Nigeria, including about 20 dental students from Maiduguri and Jos in Benue State.
“An Anambra State Commissioner and his wife were abducted in Edo State, and others travelling with them were killed. These are just a few of the many tragic incidents happening across the country.”
Obi’s call to action comes as Nigeria grapples with rising insecurity, economic hardship, and social unrest, sparking concerns about the country’s future.
The post Peter Obi calls for action against insecurity, economic hardship appeared first on Latest Nigeria News | Top Stories from TVN.

KEDCO records significant improvement under new ownership

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The Kano Electricity Distribution Company says it has recorded significant performance improvement and reduction in aggregate technical, commercial, and collection losses since its acquisition by the new core investor, Future Energies Africa.

 

This was contained in a statement by the Head, Corporate Communications Unit of the company, Mr Sani Sani, a copy of which was made available to According on Saturday.

 

“KEDCO recorded 80% Billing Efficiency in June 2024 up from 75% in January 2024 and also reduced ATC&C by almost 20 percentage points to a record of 42%,” Sani said.

 

Recall that in November 2023, Future Energies Africa acquired the highest stake in KEDCO and has since embarked on reforms geared towards business turnaround and sustainable transformation of the Company.

 

“Currently, about 52 feeders receive between 20 to 24 hours of supply including 11 recently upgraded through investments and improved service delivery.

 

“These achievements are not merely coincidental but conscious efforts by KEDCO’s Board and Management, with ample support from the core investor, Future Energies Africa through investment efforts and constant adoption of effective mechanisms to expeditiously address extant challenges towards making KEDCO financially self-sufficient, he said.

 

He noted that prominent among the recent challenges overcome was the dispute with the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, over the April 2024 supplementary tariff order which has now been resolved and KEDCO, in its customer-centric spirit urged for a round-table reconciliation approach, while reaffirming its continuous support for the prosperity of businesses and economic activities in the area.

 

According to him, the company has recently revamped top management with the addition of a new Chief Technical Officer, Engr. Kassim Burkullu, who recently managed AEDC’s large network; a new Chief Commercial Officer,  Dr. Abubakar Jimeta, a seasoned industry professional; and two Special Directorates for Special Projects and Customer Solutions, manned by veterans, Engr. Inuwa Daneji and Engr. Shuaibu Adeiza.

 

“During this period, the Company has invested over ₦ 1 billion to deploy over 100 High Voltage smart Maximum Demand meters.

 

“Also, the deployment of over 3,000 prepayment meters on Band A feeders, through MAP vendor financing, all geared towards mitigating billing and commercial losses”, the statement said.

 

Similarly, check meters have been installed on all major commercial feeders with high losses and bifurcation of those feeders, for improved power distribution, efficiency, and energy accountability which has led to a significant reduction in losses and improved collection efficiencies.

 

In the area of network reliability, the management has initiated expansion efforts in a bid to foster efficiency in service delivery and meet service-level agreement commitments.

 

KEDCO’s projection is to achieve 25 per cent ATC&C losses by year-end while meeting 100 per cent market obligations as the NESI transitions to a Bilateral trading market.

 

KEDCO’s management has been tasked with turning the business around and is working round the clock to continue driving improvements.

 

The Acting Managing Director, Abubakar Yusuf stated, “ At all levels, we have prioritised collaboration, partnership, and regular stakeholders’ engagements within the government, traditional, security, political, religious, and community partners to drive progress. If KEDCO succeeds our communities succeed so it has to be a team effort.”

Jota, Salah fire Liverpool to opening day win

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Arne Slot got off to a winning Premier League start as Liverpool manager thanks to two quickfire goals from Diogo Jota and Mohamed Salah in a 2-0 win at newly-promoted Ipswich on Saturday.

Slot has the unenviable task of succeeding Jurgen Klopp at Anfield, but a commanding second-half performance will have heartened the Dutchman.

Ipswich were riding the crest of a wave after back-to-back promotions and a return to the Premier League for the first time in 22 years.

Celebrity fan and minority owner Ed Sheeran was in attendance at Portman Road, although the singer-songwriter had to leave at half-time to attend a gig in Serbia.

Sheeran saw the best of the Tractor Boys, who were far from overawed by their illustrious opponents early on.

Omari Hutchinson had a shot blocked inside two minutes before Jacob Greaves headed the best chance of the first half too close to Alisson Becker.

Slot is the only new face at Anfield, as Liverpool, are the only side in the Premier League yet to make a signing in the transfer window.

The need for some fresh faces was shown in a sloppy and slow first 45 minutes on the ball.

However, Slot’s half-time team talk did the trick, as the Reds were a different side after the break and could have run out far more convincing winners.

Greaves needed to make a vital clearance to prevent Salah’s effort from curling in at the far corner.

But Liverpool also had a narrow escape as a potential penalty for a Virgil van Dijk push on Liam Delap was ruled out for a marginal offside in the build-up.

Luis Diaz missed a glorious chance to open the scoring when he scooped over from close range after wonderful play from Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dominik Szoboszlai to tee up the Colombian.

Alexander-Arnold’s teasing cross was then headed wide by Jota, with the goal gaping.

Liverpool’s pressure finally told on the hour mark as another defence-splitting pass from Alexander-Arnold opened up Ipswich, and Salah unselfishly squared for Jota to make amends for his earlier miss.

Five minutes later, it was 2-0 as Salah pounced to score for the ninth time on the opening weekend of the season for Liverpool after a one-two with Szoboszlai.

Ipswich goalkeeper Christian Walton made a string of saves in the closing stages, notably from Salah and Conor Bradley, to prevent a more embarrassing opening-day defeat.

Kieran McKenna’s men had been unbeaten at home in the league for nearly 12 months.

But Ipswich were given an early lesson in the gulf in quality between the Championship and Premier League.

Things will not get any easier for Ipswich next weekend when they travel to defending champions Manchester City.

Liverpool, on the other hand, have the chance to build up some early momentum under Slot.

On either side of a trip to Manchester United next month, they face Brentford, Nottingham Forest, Bournemouth, Wolves and Crystal Palace in their next six Premier League games before the October international break.

Police arrest wanted cult leader in Ogun

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Operatives of the Ogun State Police Command have arrested a 35-year-old wanted suspected cultist, Olamilekan Akojede, in Oja Oda, Yewa-North Local Government Area of the state.

Akojede was arrested at about 2:30 pm on Friday.

The command’s spokesperson, Omolola Odutola who confirmed the arrest on Friday in a statement posted on her X handle,  said the suspect, leader of the cult group known as Alora has been on the command’s watch list for some time now

Odutola noted that Akojede known for terrorising and causing panic in the community will be transferred to the state Criminal Investigation Department for discreet investigation.

She said, “The DPO Oja Odan has apprehended an Alora confraternity No 1. One Olamilekan Akojede, a 35-year-old who has terrorised Oja Odan was picked up at about 1430hrs today and will be transferred to SCID, for discreet investigation.

“He has been causing panic and has been on the watch list.

Odutola further reiterated the command’s dedication to eradicating cultism from the state and urged other cult members to borrow a new leaf and change for the betterment of society

“They should take a leaf from this person who has been apprehended, to accept the amnesty program and be better sons to their families.”

Recall that in the last week, there has been a renewed cult battle in the state which has claimed more than three lives.

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Be hopeful for return of comfort, relief in Nigeria, CAC President tells Nigerians

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Nigerians have been charged to keep believing and hoping for the return of times of comfort and relief to the country.
The President of Christ Apostolic Church, CAC, Nigeria & Overseas, Pastor Segun Oladele who stated this urged Nigerians to intensify prayers for the country and turn to God in righteousness to experience the turnaround.
He spoke yesterday in Efon-Alaaye, Ekiti State during the funeral service held for Late Mrs Mary Oludolapo Abere at the CAC Oke-Ayo Babalola Zonal H/QS.
Madam Abere who died at the age of 88 was the mother of Mrs Mercy Omolola Ologbonyo, the wife of the planter of CAC, Boanerges Worldwide, Prophet Adegboyega Ologbonyo.
The man of God urged Nigerians to intensify prayers for the country and turn to God for help and assistance to ensure comfort and relief to return to the country
Pastor Oladele in his sermon taken from the book of Genesis chapter 57 said man’s journey on earth is a very short pilgrimage characterized by evil.
“In everything you do, we should always think that at the end of the day, we will end the journey at a place. We should be mindful of what we do and how we spend our short time and be prepared to leave this world one day because it is not our permanent dwelling place”.
The CAC President while addressing newsmen after the service said, “If we repent of all our sins and work in the path of righteousness, there will be a turnaround in our situation.
“This is possible and will come to reality with love and unity among the citizenry irrespective of their tribe, language, religion and leanings.
“We have to keep on keeping on. The Lord is on the throne and with prayers, we believe that He is going to bring a turnaround to our situation very soon. He is going to surprise us.
“It has happened before in the history of some other nations of the world and ours shall not be an exception.
“Our God in the bible says, look unto me all ye nations, we have to unto him. We entrust our destiny to some people. He is the one who rules in the affairs of men here on earth.
“We have to trust in Him. He said if my people who are called by name shall humble themselves and pray. And we should repent of all our unrighteousness, which is very much prevalent and rampant in our country.
Be hopeful for return of comfort, relief in Nigeria, CAC President tells Nigerians