A non-governmental organisation, Inclusive Friends Association, IFA, in collaboration with National Endowment For Democracy, NED, on Tuesday, called on the Benue State Government to work towards adopting the National Disability Act.
The Executive Director of IFA, Grace Jerry made the call during an advocacy meeting with members of the Benue State House of Assembly in Makurdi.
She explained that the aim of the advocacy was to have a roundtable discussion with members of the House to highlight key demands and expectations of persons with disabilities from the Benue State government.
Mrs. Jerry stated that the participation of Persons with Disabilities, PWDs, in democratic governance on equal basis with other citizens in Benue State was achievable.
She added that because of the non-domestication of the act, PWDs in the state had suffered different forms of discrimination.
She urged members of the state assembly to put pressure on the state government to adopt the National Disability Act and immediately send it to the State House of Assembly for domestication for passage.
“Benue is the only state in the north central region that has not domesticated the National Disability Act that was passed into law in 2018 and assented by the president in 2019.
“This delay has left persons with disabilities in Benue without the legal protections and support that are essential to their inclusion and participation in society.
“We believe that if the Act is domesticated in Benúe State, it is expected that Persons with Disabilities would be given 5% of political appointments cutting across positions such as Commissioners, Special Assistant and Senior Special Assistant positions, among others.
“Furthermore, a quota system for legislative seats in Benue State would also improve disability representation in legislation. The Government would work closely with party leaders in removing all barriers.
“A commitment from the speaker and the House of Assembly to prioritise the domestication of the Disability Act in Benue State account for this meeting.
“The Act has provided a robust framework for ensuring access to public service, protecting against discrimination, and creating better opportunities for persons with disabilities”, Jerry stated.
Some of the House members, including Cephas Dykor representing Konshisha state constituency, commended the Inclusive Friends Association for their efforts towards drawing the attention of the government to the Act.
He advised that the bill for domestication of the National Disability Act should be privately sponsored rather than waiting for the executive governor to transmit it to the house.
Benue yet to domesticate disability law – Group
Benue yet to domesticate disability law – Group
Iran denies trying to assassinate Trump
Iran has denied any links with the attempted assassination of former United States, US, President, Donald Trump.
The Iranian Mission to the United Nations said the allegations of attempting to assassinate Trump was “unsubstantiated and malicious.”
A 20-year-old had shot Trump in an attempt to kill him during his campaign in Butler, Pennsylvania on Saturday.
While the shooter missed Trump, the secret service killed the 20-year-old at the scene.
Following the incident, Iran was accused of trying to kill Trump in reaction to the assassination of General Soleimani.
However, Iran’s Mission to the UN described Trump as a criminal who will be punished legally.
The mission also said the shooter identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks, had no ties to its country.
“From the perspective of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Trump is a criminal who must be prosecuted and punished in a court of law for ordering the assassination of General Soleimani.
“Iran has chosen the legal path to bring him to justice,” he said.
Iran denies trying to assassinate Trump
‘Peter Obi will never be president in Nigeria’, Omokri vows
Former aide to ex-President Goodluck Jonathan, Reno Omokri, has vowed that as long as he lives, Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 presidential election, will never be Nigeria’s president.
The self-styled socio-political activist, in a post on his X handle, said the former Anambra State governor does not even believe in the manifesto of his party and is rather more attuned to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
He went on to claim that it was through his efforts that Obi was made a running mate to Atiku Abubakar in the 2019 presidential election and vowed that such would never happen again in future elections as he will do everything possible to make sure Obi does not get on a ballot to contest for president.
“I will support President Tinubu’s policies that were also in the Peoples Democratic Party manifesto. I will do so proudly and patriotically,” part of the post reads.
“Even Peter Obi was put on the 2019 PDP ticket by the grace of God using my efforts. And he cannot deny it because I am a meticulous record keeper and kept paper records.
“Peter Obi does not even believe in the official Labour Party manifesto. He is more politically attuned to us in the PDP.
READ ALSO:Nigerians descend on Omokri for linking Obi with NLC strike
“So, develop some emotional maturity and learn how to tackle politics, or you will FOREVER be marginalised if you play politics with your emotions.
“During the elections, politicians and their strategists will attack each other. It is all part of the way politics is played. After elections, we move from battleground to common ground.
“The only politician and movement I cannot forgive are those who threatened to kill my daughter, physically came to my house thinking they could intimidate me, made false allegations against me, used Arise TV as a propaganda machine to fight me, and stalked then approached me on the streets while warning me to leave Peter Obi alone.
“There are no permanent friends or enemies in politics. But with death threats to my child, and with their leader keeping quiet when it was brought to his attention, there is permanent enmity.
“Peter Obi will NEVER be President of Nigeria, and we will fight to ensure that even if he returns to the PDP, he will NEVRT get on our ticket. But beyond that, we are moving on with one Nigeria!”
Former President Trump has just chosen Ohio Senator James David Vance as his running mate. Please fact-check me: Senator Vance is a man who viciously attacked President Trump in the past. He said he was "a never Trump guy". He called Donald Trump an "idiot". He urged Americans… pic.twitter.com/N3fa5rjEvt
— Reno Omokri (@renoomokri) July 15, 2024
The post ‘Peter Obi will never be president in Nigeria’, Omokri vows appeared first on Latest Nigeria News | Top Stories from TVN.
KAD-SIECOM schedules fixes LG polls for October 19
Chairperson of Kaduna State Independent Electoral Commission, KAD-SIECOM, Hajara Mohammed, says the commission has scheduled October 19, 2024, for the conduct of local government elections in the state.
Hajara Mohammed, Chairperson of KAD-SIECOM, said at a meeting with political parties and other stakeholders in Kaduna, that the serving council members were sworn into office on 1st November, 2021, and would end their 3-year tenure on 31st, October, 2024.
According to her, KAD-SIECOM is responsible for organising the elections of chairpersons, vice-chairpersons, and councillors in the state, stating that in consonance with the provision of section 25(1) of the KAD-SIECOM Law 2024, the general public is hereby informed that the LGA council election will be held in Kaduna on Saturday, 19th October, 2024, between 8 am and 4 pm.
“The commission issues the election timetable today, Tuesday, 16th July, 2024.
“The 2024 election guidelines have been released with the election timetable; KAD-SIECOM is ready to conduct the election on the set date,” the Chairperson said.
KAD-SIECOM schedules fixes LG polls for October 19
Navy arrests eight stowaways, rescues eight trafficked victims
Operatives of the Nigerian Navy Ship Beecroft have arrested eight suspected stowaways during their attempt to board two-speed boats.
Unknown to the suspects, the patrol team of NNS Beecroft had sighted them during a patrol conducted on July 13, 2024.
With the latest arrest, NNS Beecroft which is in Lagos has so far apprehended 33 stowaways between January and July.
A statement on Tuesday by the Director of Naval Information, Commodore Aiwuyor Adams-Aliu, said five of the eight suspects admitted that they wanted to travel abroad.
He said, “NNS Beecroft on July 13, 2024, arrested eight suspected stowaways in two speedboats attempting to board MV Northernlight while underway along Lagos Channel.
“The incident occurred when the patrol team sighted the suspects attempting to board the vessel through its rudder compartment.
“The suspects and speed boats have been handed over to Nigerian Immigration Service, Lagos State Port and Marine Command for further investigation.
Similarly, Adams-Aliu said upon interrogation, the five suspects admitted that they attempted to board the vessel to enable them to travel abroad.
He also noted that eight female trafficked victims and two drowning fishermen were rescued.
Adams-Aliu said, “In the past week, from 9-13 July 2024, Nigerian Navy units across the Nation’s maritime domain, also rescued 8 female victims of human trafficking and 2 drowning fishermen.
“Additionally, a sea robbery attempt was foiled within the same period.
“Specifically, on July 9, 2024, the Quick Response Team of the Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base Badagry intercepted a wooden passenger boat with 8 females aged between 18-23 years en-route the Benin Republic.
“Upon interrogation, it became obvious that they were being trafficked by a yet-to-be-identified agent.
He noted that the victims were later handed over to the National Agency for Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons while further investigation to identify the agent and trafficking syndicate is ongoing.
Court orders final forfeiture of 20 cars stolen from Canada
Justice Deinde I. Dipeolu of the Federal High Court sitting in Ikoyi, on Monday, July 15, 2024, ordered the final forfeiture of 20 cars stolen from Canada to Nigeria.
The cars were forfeited to the Federal Government of Nigeria.
The Judge gave the order following a motion on notice filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The forfeited cars are: Black colour SUV 400, White 4MATIC Mercedez Benz; SUV MDX SH-AWD Acura; Grey colour SUV RS 350L Lexus; Deep Blue SUV RX 350 Lexus, White Toyota 4Runner 2015; White 2020 model Lexus RX 350; White 2019 Lexus RX 350, Black 2020 Model Lexus RX350, and Black Honda Ridgeline 2017 Model.
Others are: White Lexus RX 350 SPORT 2019 Model; Grey Lexus RX 350 2019 Model; Grey Toyota 4Runner 2018 Model; White Lexus RX 350 FS Sport 2019 Model; White Toyota Highlander XLE AWD 2017 Model; Black Toyota Highlander 2020 Model; Black Toyota Highlander 2018 Model; Black Mercedez Benz G550 2019 Model; Red Lexus Rx 350 2016 Model and White Mercedez Benz GLA 250 2018 Model.
Justice Dipeolu had, on May 27, 2024, ordered the interim forfeiture of the cars and also directed the publication of the order in any national newspaper for any interested person to appear before the court and show cause why it should not be finally forfeited.
At the sitting on Monday, the EFCC, through its counsel, R.A. Abdulrasheed, told the court that the Commission had complied with the order of the court regarding the publication.
Moving the motion for the final forfeiture order, Abdulrasheed told the court that the application was supported with a 17-paragraph affidavit deposed to by Olufemi Olukini, an investigator with the EFCC, and a written address.
The EFCC, in the affidavit, stated that “ Sometime in April, 2022, during an official meeting held at 7A Okotie-eboh Street, Ikoyi Lagos between officials of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCM) and Lagos Zonal Command of EFCC, officials passed a credible intelligence to the Commission which alleged: “That over 350 vehicles, which were comprehensively listed out on an excel sheet with their respective vehicle identification Number (VIN), were stolen from various locations in Canada and shipped to Nigeria.
“That these vehicles have been sold and/or being sold on an online website www.ii.com by some online vendors/agents,while others are displayed for sale at various car stands across the country.
“The cars are listed in a comprehensive excel sheet alongside some pictures and information on them. And that some of these vehicles are intercepted at the point of entry into Nigeria at Tincan Island port, Lagos.
READ ALSO:EFCC auctions over 190 cars in Abuja, Ibadan, Port Harcourt, Benin, others
“That our team commenced preliminary investigation into the case by identifying the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of each of the said stolen vehicles and subjecting them to analysis using Open Source Intelligence (OSINT).
“That preliminary results from the analysis revealed the vehicles were largely located across Lagos State metropolis, particularly Lekki at different car stands and places and the Nigerian ports pending clearance into the country. And that surveillance was, thereafter, carried out on the identified locations followed by sting operations which led to the physical location and identification of these vehicles. “
Continuing, the Commission further stated in the affidavit “that about 40 of the stolen vehicles were initially located by the intelligence team, who thereafter brought a similar application in suit no. FHC/L/CS/2051/2023 between Economic and Financial Crimes Commission V. WILMON AUTOS NIGERIA LIMITED & 177 ORS wherein a final forfeiture order was granted by Honourable Justice D. I. Dipeolu on 6 March, 2024.
“That soon after the above order was granted, the intelligence team further located the vehicles listed in schedule 1 and 2 of this application,which necessitated this present suite.
“That the 13th to 20th respondents described in schedule 1 and 2 attached to this application were recovered as part of the stolen vehicles and shipped to Nigeria. And that the VIN of the vehicles corresponds with those of the stolen vehicles contained in the intelligence received from RCMP and no person has come forward to claim ownership of these vehicles.
“Investigation carried out revealed that the motor vehicles described aforesaid were stolen from Canada and shipped to Nigeria between March and June, 2022. And that most of these vehicles were insured and the insurance companies involved had indemnified the respective owners of the vehicles.
“That the insurance companies now stand in the position of the owners and delegated their interests to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police liaison officer with the Canadian Embassy in Nigeria to pursue their interests.
“That based on the facts stated on paragraphs 1-13 above, this Honourable Court on 27th May, 2024 granted an application for interim forfeiture and Order the Publication of the order. “
Abddulrasheed, therefore, prayed for “an order of the Court forfeiting to the Federal Government of Nigeria all the properties mentioned in the attached schedules of this application, which properties are reasonably suspected to have been acquired through stealing and with proceeds from other unlawful economic activities.
“An order of the Court empowering the Canadian Deputy High Commission in Nigeria or any other officer so designated by the office, to dispose off the forfeited properties mentioned in the attached schedules 1-2 of this application either by sale or return to the victims, subject to remittance of the statutory two percent from the proceeds to the EFCC Recovery Account.”
Justice Dipeolu, after listening to the submissions by Abdulrasheed, ordered the final forfeiture of the cars.
The post Court orders final forfeiture of 20 cars stolen from Canada appeared first on Latest Nigeria News | Top Stories from TVN.
Consumers choose Terra Gold for quality
In the competitive market of seasoning cubes, where consumers are on a quest for quality and authenticity, Terra Gold has emerged as a standout choice among consumers thanks to its innovative approach and exceptional quality. This seasoning cube has been setting new standards in the culinary world by offering unmatched versatility, consistent taste, and excellent value for money.
The trust and satisfaction of consumers are evident from the growing popularity of Terra Gold. Users consistently praise the cube for its rich and consistent taste, which elevates the culinary experience of every meal. The campaign “One Cube, Endless Possibilities” reflects the brand’s commitment to providing a superior seasoning solution that meets the diverse needs of Nigerian kitchens.
Osho Glory, a university student shares her positive experience, she noted that as a student who loves to cook, she sometimes couldn’t afford all the ingredients, but with Terra Gold Cube, she gets the flavour, taste, and aroma she desires. It has provided her unmatched convenience, without compromising on taste.
Mrs Aisha Ibrahim says “Terra Gold is like a stone you use to kill two birds. When I cook my family’s local soups and international meals with Terra Gold Cube, the flavour, and aroma blend nicely with the natural ingredients I used for the meal.” She continues very excited, “Regardless of what you are cooking, Terra Gold Cube makes its taste and aroma so much better”. This endorsement underscores Terra Gold’s appeal to a broad consumer base seeking a reliable and flexible seasoning option.
Probal Bhattacharya, Chief Marketing Officer, TGI Group shared, “We understand how dynamic the Nigerian Culinary space is and our role is to empower consumers with the right seasoning for all their dishes, whether local or international. Food is an important part of everyday life, and we aim to ensure flavours are brought to life one dish at a time”.
Terra Gold Cube has redefined the art of seasoning with its innovative approach and commitment to quality. Its ability to enhance a wide range of dishes without dominating their natural flavours makes it a top choice for consumers. As Terra Gold continues to inspire culinary creativity across Nigeria, it solidifies its position as the gold standard in seasoning cubes.
TGI Distri, a subsidiary of TGI Group is a consumer-focused distribution company driven by innovation to meet the evolving market and consumer needs in Nigeria. TGI Distri is vast in the innovation of new products, marketing, managing sales, and distribution of Food & Non-food products ranging from Big Bull Rice, Golden Terra Soya Oil, Terra Seasoning Cube, and Renew Starch.
With a well-structured supply chain infrastructure across Nigeria, TGI Distri is committed to being the distribution company of choice.
Consumers choose Terra Gold for quality
LG autonomy: Govs are emperors, may not obey Supreme Court – Pastor Giwa
The senior pastor of Awaiting The Second Coming Of Christ Ministry, Adewale Giwa, on Wednesday, said state governors may not obey the judgment of the Supreme Court granting financial autonomy to state governors.
Pastor Giwa explained that governors have made themselves emperors over the affairs of local governments, hence may not toe the line of the judgment.
On Thursday, the Supreme Court ruled that the federal government should stop the payment of allocations directly to local government councils.
The seven-member panel of the apex court held that state governors have continued to abuse their powers by retaining and using the funds meant for LGAs.
Reacting, Giwa said governors have taken over the responsibility of council chairmen at the local government level.
He told TVN that, “The Supreme Court judgment on LG autonomy is a welcome development.
“However, I doubt if the state governors would toe the line. Over the years, the governors in Nigeria have mismanaged the funds of the LGs.
“To make matters worse, the governors have turned themselves to emperors by unilaterally appointing caretaker committees instead of allowing the electorate to elect their representatives through statutory local government elections.
“Governors now execute projects that ought to have been implemented by the council chairmen. Can you see the level of corruption by the state governors?
“You hardly find meaningful projects in most of the local governments chaired by the appointees of the governors. With this judgment, I hope the affected governors will now put their houses in order and allow the elected Council Chairmen to perform their responsibilities.
“Before the governors hijacked the power of the LG Chairmen, the nation’s LGs were doing well in terms of developments.
“This is because they are closer to the people at the grassroots than the governors. People could easily visit their council areas to see their representatives.”
Giwa charged council chairmen to carry out positive projects, adding that the Federal Government should give local governments what was due to them.
He added: “Nigerians have refused to direct their anger towards the governors in their respective states.
“Instead, they focus more on the presidency, forgetting that charity begins from home. Nigerian governors should be held responsible also.
“Let me also advise politicians who want to be LG chairmen to use this opportunity to execute positive projects in their respective areas. Don’t let your people down; do what is right to ensure you bring good governance to your people.
“The federal government also needs to be sincere while giving the respective LGs what is due for them. Those who are in charge must not use this avenue to enrich their pockets.”
LG autonomy: Govs are emperors, may not obey Supreme Court – Pastor Giwa
Bandits abduct 150 locals in Zamfara community
About one hundred and fifty (150) locals, including newborn babies in Dan Isa community of Kauran Namoda local government area of Zamfara State, were kidnapped by bandits over the weekend.
Over 30 others were also abducted by hoodlums in Maradun Local Government Area of the state.
According to BBC Hausa, the community has been deserted following the incident.
According to a survivor, the hoodlums invaded the community, killed three locals and rustled all the cows and other animals in the community.
The spokesperson of the Zamfara State Police Command, Mr Yazid Abubakar, when contacted, explained that they were yet to receive the news of the kidnap incident.
Bandits abduct 150 locals in Zamfara community
Kano gov reinstates Gaya Emir, names two others for Karaye, Rano
Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano State has approved the appointment of three second-class Emirs of Rano, Gaya, and Karaye with immediate effect.
According to a statement issued by the governor’s spokesperson, Sanusi Tofa, a copy of which was made available to According Online on Wednesday, the new emirates are to serve as second with Kano as first-class emirate.
Yusuf named the newly appointed Alhaji Muhammad Karaye as the Emir of Karaye. He was the District Head of Rogo before his latest appointment.
Alhaji Muhammad Umar was named the Emir of Rano. He was the District Head of Bunkure before the latest appointment.
The governor also named Alhaji Aliyu Abdulkadir Gaya as the Emir of Gaya. He was the emir of the defunct Gaya emirate, who was dethroned among others recently.
The statement added, “While congratulating the newly appointed Emirs, Governor Abba Yusuf enjoined them to be custodians of culture, peace, and unity of the people in their respective emirates.”
Yusuf had on Tuesday signed into law three second-class emirates in the state, with Rano covering only Rano, Kibiya, and Bunkure Local Government areas.
Gaya covers only Gaya, Ajingi, and Albasu Local Government Areas, while Karaye covers only Karaye and Rogo Local Government Areas.
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