A chemist operator, name undisclosed, has allegedly raped a minor and 9-year-old girl, Rumaisa Sadiq to death in Jaba, Fanisau area of Kano State.

It was gathered that the ugly incident happened when little Rumaisa was taken to the chemist for malaria treatment by her father.

The Kano State Commissioner of Women Affairs, Disabled and Children, Hajia Aisha Saji in a statement through her Director, Public Enlightenment, Aishatu Haruna, after a condolence visit to family of the deceased, condemned the unholy act and vowed to follow up the case to a logical conclusion.

Hajia Saji said despite moves by some individuals to divert the case, the Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf’s led government will ensure justice for the deceased, little Rumaisa, in order to serve as deterrence to others fond of perpetrating the act.

According to the statement, “Despite moves by some individuals to infuse diverters into the reported case of a fatal rape against nine year old Rumaisa Sadiq, the Commissioner of Ministry of Women, Children and the Disabled, Hajiya Aisha Lawan Saji Rano has insisted that there must be justice for the late victim and her family.

“Speaking during a condolence visit to the family house of the victim, the Commissioner said, “there must be justice for the little girl who lost her life simply because someone chose to display his animalistic instinct on her.

“Infact, full and quick dispensation of justice in this case is necessary in order to serve as lesson and deterrence to others like this grown up person that carried out this merciless act against an innocent nine year old girl.

“The Kano State Government under the justice-loving Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf will follow up the case in court to a conclusive end.

“In addition to this assurance, the Commissioner also conveyed His Excellency’s condolences to the family and offered her assistance to the family, which included a bag of 50kg rice, a bag of maize, a carton of Macaroni and a gallon of vegetable oil.

“It could however be recalled that Rumaisa was allegedly raped by the owner of a chemist where she was taken to by her father for treatment against malaria.”

The statement added, “According to the Founder, Hidaya Ahmad VVF Aid Foundation, Hajiya Nafisa Salisu Ahmad, who first hinted the Commissioner of the incidence, the case which is already before a court of law, is already attracting concerns from a number of human rights organizations.

“Hajiya Nafisa who accompanied the Commissioner’s delegation to the victim’s family house, also thanked Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and Honourable Aisha Lawan Saji Rano for their constant efforts in the struggles against injustice and inhumanity.

“The father of the victim, Alhaji Sadiq who was in hand to receive the delegation, expressed happiness over the Honourable Commissioner’s efforts and His Excellency’s concerns. He prayed to God to keep on protecting them as He sees them through the rigours and demands of office.

“Earlier, the bereaved mother who is apparently yet to recover from the shock of the unfortunate incidence that led to the death of her daughter, thanked both Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and Honourable Aisha Saji for making efforts to comfort the family and to assure them of justice,” the statement however reads.

In a highly anticipated and emotionally charged bout at UFC 305, South African fighter Dricus Du Plessis retained his middleweight title, defeating Nigerian-born Israel Adesanya by submission in the fourth round.

The victory was a significant milestone for Du Plessis as he successfully defended his title in one of the most intense rivalries in recent UFC history.

The fight, which had been fueled by pre-fight tensions over race and identity, ended in a dramatic fashion as Du Plessis secured a rear-naked choke, forcing Adesanya to submit.

Despite trailing 2-1 on the scorecards heading into the fourth round, Du Plessis turned the fight in his favor with a powerful sequence of hooks and jabs, followed by a decisive takedown that led to the submission victory.

Adesanya, a former two-time middleweight champion, entered the bout determined to reclaim the title he lost to Sean Strickland in September 2023.

He showed early aggression, landing sharp counters and cutting Du Plessis on the forehead in the first round.

However, Du Plessis’ relentless pressure and superior wrestling skills began to wear down Adesanya as the fight progressed.

In the second round, Du Plessis took control with effective wrestling, dragging Adesanya down twice.

The third round featured intense exchanges on the feet as both fighters battled for dominance, setting the stage for the dramatic fourth-round finish.

The atmosphere in the arena was tense, stemming from pre-fight comments by Du Plessis, who had referred to himself as the first “real” African UFC champion.

This statement, which alluded to Du Plessis’ South African heritage, did not sit well with Adesanya, who has often represented Nigeria with pride throughout his career.

The animosity between the two fighters was evident throughout the contest, adding to the drama of the night.

With the victory, Du Plessis solidified his position at the top of the middleweight division, while Adesanya faces an uncertain future after the bitter loss

Mabel Segun-Bello, a federal capital territory (FCT) high court judge, says a judicial officer needs the backing of the presidency or the support of a political party to become a judge.

Segun-Bello spoke in Abuja on Saturday at the 2024 clarity conference, with the theme ‘The constellation: Gathering of stars, by stars and for stars’.

The judge, who was the keynote speaker at the event, said she has been guided by perseverance and determination in her career progression.

“You may come from a poverty-stricken background. That is a powerful condition, but you must have the will to rise above it,” Segun-Bello said.

“If I tell you where I come from, two things will happen: you will either think I’m lying or start crying. And remember, I’m not just a state judge; I’m a federal judge.

“To become a federal judge, you need the backing of the presidency or support from a political party. I had neither,” she said.

“This goes to show that principles, when applied universally, can make anything possible.”

Segun-Bello was sworn in as a federal high court judge in 2022, alongside five others.

Ibrahim Muhammad, the then chief justice of Nigeria (CJN), advised the judicial officers to avoid unholy alliances with people of questionable character that could influence them to do things that are offensive to the law.

The Cable

•Kano, Sokoto, Borno, Katsina, Plateau top list, Russia flag demonstrators flown to Abuja

•NBA says data not collated yet

•Association goes to court on behalf of those brutalized in Abuja

The 10-day #EndBadGovernance protests may have ended, but the fallout will continue to be with us for some time to come.

For instance, several protesters arrested in some states, mainly in the North, have been charged to court and remanded in prison pending their trial which may not commence anytime soon, going by the delay in trial which has characterized our courts.

Consequently, they are now ‘prisoners-awaiting-trial’.

The arraignment is in line with the law which provides that a suspect must be arraigned in court within 48 hours of arrest, but there is no evidence to suggest that the #EndBadGovernance protesters had legal presentation during the arraignment as it ordinarily should be.

It was not clear also whether their pleas were taken, and, worse still, there was no bail for them.

For instance, the police confirmed that none of the 600 of the 832 protesters arrested in Kano State and charged to court had the opportunity for bail as they were all sent to prison pending the next hearing of their case.

The situation is nearly the same in Plateau State where 51 suspects were arrested and charged to court without legal representation and bail.

The police, however, confirmed that a lawyer called in respect of one of the suspects but did not elaborate.

The next adjourned dates for the cases of the protesters could not be confirmed but if the case of those charged in Plateau is used as a yardstick, then they may have to remain in prison custody for at least the next one month.

The Plateau protesters’ case was adjourned to September 18 and 19, that is, about one month away.
The situation in Katsina State is different where out of the 120 protesters arrested and charged to court, 64 were represented by lawyers and bail successfully secured for 30.

The remaining 90 protesters were remanded in prison but the lawyers who represented the 64 were upbeat about freedom for the rest of their clients (34) as soon as possible.

Many of the 110 protesters arrested on the first and second days of the protests in Sokoto metropolis are, according to sources, still languishing in correctional homes.

The suspects were summarily remanded in prison custody after being presented by the police before a mobile court set up the state government.

Suspects arrested later, and who were supposed to be presented to court on Thursday, were not in seen in any of the magistrate courts in the state capital.

11 states

Sunday Vanguard’s survey across 11 states showed that 1, 423 suspected protesters were arrested by the police and charged to court.

Those accused of flying Russia’s flag among them, it was learnt, have been flown to Abuja for further interrogation.

Kano tops the list with 832 suspects, followed by Sokoto, 110, Borno, 97, Katsina, 90, Bauchi, 60, Plateau and Yobe, 51 each, Kaduna, 50, Nasarawa, 40, Niger, 23, and Zamfara, 19.

The charges vary from state to state and they include criminal conspiracy, inciting disturbance, riot, theft, mischief and arson.

Meanwhile, the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), which had vowed ahead of the protests to provide legal aid to arrested protesters whose rights may have been violated, did not show up in any of the courts in all the states where arraignment took place.

Mr Chinonye Obiagwu, SAN, Chairman, NBA Human Rights Institute and Member, NBA Free Legal Support Team for #EndBadGovernance protesters, however, said the association was intervening on behalf of some protesters in Abuja who were harassed and brutalized at the MKO Abiola Stadium, the venue designated for the protests, by security forces, saying a suit was being filed in court on their behalf.

“The branches of the NBA were mandated to provide legal assistance to anyone arrested or whose human rights were violations during the protest”, Obiagwu told Sunday Vanguard late last week.

“There were a number of reports from the branches about support provided to diverse range of people. Most of the cases are still going on and so the data have not been collated at the central NBA level.

“In Abuja, some protesters, including women, were molested at the stadium when they came to arrange for the August 10 protests.

“This was the stadium the court designated as the approved place for the protests, yet they were beaten and harassed by law enforcement agents in the same venue.

“So, the NBA Human Rights Institute intervened and some of the molested protesters are filing a suit to challenge the denial of their right to peaceful protests.”

The protests took place nationwide from August 1 to August 10.

Tagged #EndBadGovernance protests, it was organized by youth groups to call government’s attention to the downturn in the economy and the hunger in the land.

Efforts by government to dissuade organizers from proceeding with the action on the grounds that it may be hijacked by hoodlums to cause destruction proved abortive.

The protests were largely peaceful in Abuja and Lagos, among others, where government obtained court orders to restrict demonstrations to designated venues.

But in many states, especially in the northern part of the country, the protests took a violent turn as hoodlums came in, leading to loss of lives and destruction of property.

The police called many of the arrested persons ‘rioters’ but some of them disputed the claim, saying they were protesters

Additionally, the protests turned to pro-Russia rallies in Kano, Kaduna and Katsina states, among others, as demonstrators carried Russian flags in a manner suggesting they want Nigeria to turn to Russia in search of solution to her challenges.

Kano

Kano State Police Command said it arrested no fewer than 832 suspects for various offences during the nationwide protests in the state.

The state Commissioner of Police, CP, Salman Garba, said 600 were rioters while 76 were arrested in connection with the displaying of Russia flags.

Garba said others arrested include six who allegedly masterminded the looting of the Kano Printing Press and 150 violators of curfew imposed by the state government as a result of the protests.

“The Kano State Police Command has worked diligently and professionally towards addressing the aftermath of the August 1st to 10th nationwide protests, and these efforts resulted in the arrest of 873 suspects and recovery of large quantity of exhibits”, he said.

“Arrest and prosecution of six hundred (600) suspects for various offences, including criminal conspiracy, inciting disturbance, riot, theft, mischief and arson were made.

“Similarly, arrest and prosecution of one hundred and fifty (150) suspects for violating the curfew enforced by the Kano State government while additional (6) suspects arrested were linked with masterminding the destruction, setting ablaze and looting of the Kano Printing Press (KPP) are undergoing investigation.

“We also arrested and transferred seventy-six (76) suspects flying Russian flags, including a foreigner to Force Headquarters, Abuja for discreet investigation on charges of sedition”.

When contacted for additional information on the number of suspects granted bail after arraignment in court, spokesperson for the state Police Command, SP Abdullahi Haruna, said no one was granted bail.

Kaduna

In Kaduna State, suspects arrested in connection with the protests, it was learnt, were also charged to court.

Although a source close to the police in the state said the police arrested over 50 youths, the state Police Command Public Relations Officer (PPRO), ASP Mansir Hassan, could not disclose the actual number of those arrested.

“All the suspects have been changed to court and some were transferred to Abuja for investigation”, Hassan simply told Sunday Vanguard.

Meanwhile, there were complaints that some of those arrested were peaceful protesters and had not participated in looting or vandalizing of government and private properties.

Malam Ahmed Rufa’i, a tailor in Kaduna North Local Government Area, alleged that the police, in their mass arrests, had not differentiated between protesters and miscreants.

Plateau

51 suspects were arrested in Jos, Plateau State during the protests and they were immediately charged to court, the state Police Command Public Relations Officer, DSP Alfred Alabo, confirmed.

Recall that some of the persons were arrested for defying the curfew imposed on the area by the State Government in the aftermath of the protests.

A credible source at the state Police Command disclosed that none of the arrested persons had been bailed at the time of this report.

“Shortly after they were arrested, they were all charged to court for inciting disturbance and failure to comply with an order made by the government. A lawyer called for one of the suspects but none is bailed yet. Some of them were arrested with dangerous weapons”, the source said.

“When they were arraigned, they all pleaded guilty, so they were remanded in prison custody and the matter was adjourned to the 18th and 19th of next month. So those that can afford to get lawyers, their lawyers will file bail applications which will be considered.

“They were arraigned at the time of the protests, and so the court exercised its discretion to remand them and some of them were arrested with dangerous weapons”.

Katsina

120 protesters were arrested in Katsina State for allegedly engaging in destructive activities and causing unrest during the protests.

According to ASP Abubakar Sadiq, spokesperson for Katsina Police Command, all the suspects had been arraigned in court.

Sunday Vanguard learned that the alleged offenders were brought before multiple courts but their hearings were adjourned.

While some secured bail, a significant number were sent to correctional facilities awaiting trial.
A legal team from Lawyers for Rule of Law and Human Rights, representing 64 protesters, said it secured bail for 30 protesters.

The team, led by MM Lawal and DD Sani, noted that efforts were underway to release the remaining 34 detainees.

Sunday Vanguard understood that some of the protesters were still in custody because the charges against them were bail-able only in a High Court.

A check at the two correctional facilities in the state capital revealed that 42 protesters were earlier admitted at the facilities.

Prominent among those still in detention at press time were Kabir Shehu ‘Yandaki and Habibu Ruma, along with five others who championed the protest under the ‘Struggle for Good Governance’ umbrella.

The court had directed that the protest leaders, among others, be presented for the continuation of their trial slated for September 11, 2024.

Sokoto

Many of the 110 arrested on the first and second days of the nationwide protests in Sokoto metropolis were at press time, according to sources, still languishing in correctional centers.

The suspects were summarily remanded in prison custody after being presented by the police before a mobile court set up the state government.

More suspects, who were supposed to be presented to court on Thursday, were not in seen in any of the magistrate courts in the state capital.

When contacted, Sokoto State Police Command spokesman, ASP Ahmed Rufai, said the matter was before the court of law and, as such, the police would not make further comments.

Rufai directed our correspondent to the state High Court where the Public Relations Officer, Mr Nakwanta Mohamned, also declined comment on the matter.

The Public Relations Officer of the Sokoto Correctional Service, Abubakar Dingyadi, on his part, said the Service was still waiting for a production warrant from the court that remanded the suspects in the Central Correctional Home in Sokoto metropolis.

The relations of some of those arrested in connection with the protests, however, told our correspondent that many of the suspects who pleaded guilty as charged were fined between N130,000 and N150,000 depending on the nature of the allegation against them.

The protests had turned violent in Sokoto on the first and second days which saw many infrastructures in the state capital vandalized including those around the Government House, the seat of power.

Governor Ahmed Aliyu vowed to punish severely all those who took part in the wanton vandalization of public infrastructures during the protests.

Nasarawa

In Nasarawa State, the Police Command said it arrested 50 protesters from different local governments across the state but released 10 minors and charged the remaining 40 to court.

DSP Ramhan Nansel, the state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), disclosed this in Lafia, the state capital.

The PPRO noted that 25 protesters were apprehended in Lafia,16 in Karu, six in Keffi and three in Mararaba-Udege.

Governor Abdullahi Sule, speaking on the protests, expressed worries over Almajiris, who, he said, were used to carry out the demonstrations in the state.

Sule regretted that after interrogation, it was found that the Almajiri were minors who did not even know what the protests were all about.

Taraba

Taraba State recorded no detention during the protests.

While the protests lost steam after the first day, security operatives were on ground to maintain peace and order.

Borno, Yobe

In the aftermath of the first and second days of the protests, which later turned violent in some parts of Borno and Yobe states, Sunday Vanguard understood that about 97 suspects were arrested and detained in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, while 51 were arrested in Yobe in connection with violence, with property worth millions of naira destroyed.

Borno State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Kenneth Daso, confirmed the arrests made by the police in the state in an interview.

He said: “The suspects include seven social media instigators, seven persons who hoisted Russia flags and 83 violent protesters who were arrested at various locations in Maiduguri metropolis and Jere local government area.

“They vandalized public infrastructure and private property, caused mischief by fire, rioting, theft and looting of items.

“Some of the significant actions include the looting of office and food items of World Food Programme (WFP) warehouse at Baga Road, removal of interlocks, destruction of flower vases, street lights and pedestrian bridge barricades at Bulumkutu, Lagos Street, Baga Road and Gwange”.

The PPRO urged members of the public to report any suspicious activities within their domain or area to the police or other security agencies, adding that the Command remained committed to ensuring public peace and security.

Daso also said all the suspects after spending 24hours in custody were taken to court for trial and “punishment”.

Our correspondent gathered that the Borno State Mechanical Workshop and police patrol vehicle were vandalized while dozens of people lost their lives and injured during the first day of the protests in Maiduguri metropolis.

In Yobe, protesters went berserk in Nguru, Potiskum and Gashua local government areas, even as the state capital, Damaturu, witnessed peaceful protest.

In Potiskum, for example, it was gathered that some youths vandalized seven buses belonging to the Potiskum Council. Also destroyed were streetlights, and traffic warden sheds among others.

In Nguru, a pharmaceutical store owned by one Alhikma and a storage facility belonging to the local council were affected, while an ICT Centre named after former Senate President Ahmed Lawan was vandalized, in addition to other public and private properties in Gashua and the other two council areas worth millions of naira destroyed.

According to the Yobe State Police Command spokesman, ASP Dungus Abdulkarim, 51 suspects were arrested out of which 35 have been remanded in the Potiskum Correctional Centre while the underage children among them may be released on bail.

Kwara

There were practically no protests in Kwara State and therefore no arrests.
The state Police Command Public Relations Officer, Ejire Adeyemi Adetoun, told Sunday Vanguard:
“There were no protests in Kwara State, so we didn’t arrest any protester”.

Bauchi

Bauchi State Police Commissioner, Auwal Musa Mohammed confirmed that a police officer was injured and over 60 protesters were arrested during the first day of the protests in the state.

The protesters, who numbered over 3,000, became violent and unruly, engaging in phone theft, property destruction, and stoning police officers.

Despite attempts to disperse them, the protesters regrouped and tried to force their way into Bauchi Government House.

According to the CP, the arrests were made due to breaches of public order and unlawful assembly, as the protesters did not obtain police permission before embarking on the exercise. He noted that 52 of the arrested protesters, including women, were detained for their violent behavior.

Mohammed emphasized that the police acted professionally and did not use lethal force, despite the protesters using women and children as shield.

When Sunday Vanguard called the state Police Command Public Relations Officer, Ahmed Wakil, to ascertain the number of protesters released, he said: We charged all to court. Only the courts have the details please”.

Zamfara

Zamfara State Police Command said it arrested 19 suspects during the protests. A spokesperson for the state Police Command, ASP Yazeed Abubakar, said the suspects were immediately charged to court without spending 24 hours in their custody.

According to him, the police did not arrest protesters conducting their protest peacefully but only arrested those who were caught boggling shops and stealing public property.

He further explained: “Those arrested were charged with criminal conspiracy because they were caught with stolen public properties worth five hundred (500) million naira.

The PPRO also stated that some of the suspects were charged with armed robbery as they were caught with dangerous weapons.

“None of the arrested 19 was released on bail by the state Police Command, they were screened and we charged them all to court”, Abubakar said.

Niger

In Niger State, most of the violent protests took place in Suleja, headquarters of Suleja local government area, and Sabon Wuse, headquarters of Tafa local government area.

23 persons were arrested in Sabon Wuse alone.

The Public Relations Officer for the State Police Command, DSP Wasiu Abiodun, confirmed the arrest of the 23.

“On the 1st of August, the day the protest started at about 1000hrs, some miscreants of Tafa area of Kagarko LGA of Kaduna State and that of Sabon-Wuse Tafa and Hayin-Dikko Gurara area of Niger State mobilized and stormed Tafa LGA Secretariat of Niger State located along Abuja, Kaduna expressway, Sabon-Wuse Niger State”, Abiodun said in a statement.

“The hoodlums vandalized the Secretariat, partly set ablaze two cars while two others were vandalized.

“They further looted office valuables such as computers, refrigerators, file cabinets, ceiling fans, office chairs, television sets and office burglaries. “The police and other security agencies responded and a total of 23 suspects were arrested with different dangerous weapons, while others were dispersed from the scene and most of the looted items were recovered mostly from Kagarko in Kaduna State”.

The suspects, it was learnt, were transferred to SCID Minna for further investigation and they were scheduled to be arraigned in court as soon as the investigation was concluded.

[Vanguard]

In a nation grappling with protests and uncertainty, the voices of its youth are growing louder, demanding change and action from those in power.

As the world marked International Youth Day last week, calls for reform have intensified, and the spotlight is on Nigeria’s young people to shape the country’s future. Sunday Vanguard sat down with a respected voice of wisdom, Emeritus Archbishop of Abuja, Cardinal John Onaiyekan, to gain insight into the role of young people in driving change and the responsibilities of leaders to empower them. 

With decades of experience and a deep understanding of the complexities of the nation, Onaiyekan briefly shares his thoughts on the potential of Nigeria’s youth and the way forward.

Amidst growing unrest, can Nigeria’s young people be the catalyst for change?

I congratulate the efforts of young people, who are working towards peace and development in the country. I encourage them to continue pursuing peace using their religious values.

What’s holding Nigeria’s leaders back from harnessing the energy and creativity of the country’s youth?

Young people want to participate and contribute to the peace and development of the nation, but they have not been given adequate attention, space, or encouragement by those in control.

Is the government’s call for patience from young people a recipe for disaster?

Young people cannot and should not be patient. They should show their eagerness to bring about change and improve the country. They have always been at the forefront of change throughout history.

What’s the way forward for Nigeria’s leadership to effectively engage with its young population?

Leaders should be aware of the natural desire of young people to achieve their destiny. They should create an environment for young people to work and succeed, and listen to their concerns.

Can Nigeria’s economy be salvaged, and what role can young people play?

We must create wealth by creating an environment for young people to work with their hands and minds. The government should listen to young people and understand how they want to be helped. We need sincerity, not lies.

Are government programs for young people mere tokenism or a genuine attempt to address their concerns?

Many young people say they have never seen these programmes. We need sincerity and avenues for young people to succeed, not just token efforts like distributing 50,000 naira.

Will the government’s response to protests, such as CNG buses, quell the growing unrest?
I am not sure that initiatives like CNG buses will address the concerns raised. We need to harness our resources, like gas, to create energy and opportunities for young people.

Barely two months after the Presidential Air Fleet, PAF, hovered into controversy over the decision of the House of Representatives Committee on National Security and Intelligence to purchase two new aircraft, it has come to light that Federal Government followed through with the procurement.

A legal dispute between Ogun State and Chinese firm, Zhongshan Fucheng, revealed that despite intense opposition, a N150 billion Airbus A330 was acquired for the PAF, which already has two Falcon 7X jet, two Falcon 900 jets, Gulfstream G550, one Boeing 737 BBJ (Nigerian Air Force 001 or Eagle One) and Gulfstream IVSP, Gulfstream V, Cessna Citation 2 and Hawk Siddeley 125-800 jet.

Last Thursday, stories emerged that three aircraft from the Nigerian presidential fleet – a Dassault Falcon 7X, a Boeing 737 and a newly acquired Airbus A330 – were grounded in France and Switzerland due to a court order during routine maintenance.

This development was weeks after the House of Representatives Committee, in a report released after its technical subcommittee assessed the status and airworthiness of the PAF, recommended the addition of two new planes.

The recommendation came after President Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima had different distressing experiences using the presidential jets.

Recently, the President had to continue his journey in a commercial plane when two presidential jets broke down simultaneously.

Also on May 7, 2024, Shettima had to shelve a trip to the United States, US, for the US-Africa Business Summit when the presidential jet he was scheduled to travel in developed a fault one hour after take-off.

How Controversies Trailed Aircraft Purchase

In June, however, the arrangements to execute the planned purchase was met with stiff opposition, leading to its secret acquisition.

Among those who voiced concerns about the development was the Labour Party, LP, presidential candidate, Mr Peter Obi.

Obi, who faulted the move on X, formerly Twitter, had described it as insensitive, arguing that it was unfortunate that at a time when the country was making headlines over the economic crisis, occasioned by hyperinflation, a falling currency and widespread poverty, the FG was contemplating securing new presidential jets.

“This demonstrates extreme insensitivity to citizens’ struggles. With rising insecurity, poverty, hunger, and homelessness, this decision highlights the disconnect that is apparent between the government and the people. It is unacceptable as the situation in the country today more than ever demands a more compassionate use of resources, prioritising citizens’ welfare.

“It is on record that our presidential jets have an average age of 12 years, purchased when most Nigerians could afford necessities. Now, as our country faces significant challenges, including a high debt profile, our citizens are in even greater need. Instead of adding to our luxuries, we should be focused on alleviating their suffering and finding solutions to their problems,” Obi stated.

Countering him, the Presidency also described Obi’s comment as insensitive to the President’s safety, wondering if he wanted Tinubu to die by flying in a faulty plane.

Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, had asked: “Does Peter Obi want the President dead? Is that his wish? Does he want him to continue moving around in a rickety plane and die like the VP of Malawi and Iran President? Let him tell us.”

Similarly, a faith-based group, Muslim Rights Concern, MURIC, which also defended the procurement called the aircraft in PAF ‘flying Molue buses’, saying opponents of the move to procure new aircraft were endangering Tinubu’s life.

A statement by the group’s Executive Director, Professor Ishaq Akintola, said: “As far as Obi and other irrational critics are concerned, they wish what happened to the Iranian President Raisi recently and the Malawian Vice President last week should happen in Nigeria. God forbid!
“How many times do we have to drum it into the ears of this far right, ultra nationalist opposition cartel that the presidential jets are already worn out? They have become rickety, risky and unserviceable. They have broken down so many times during trips. The old jets can be sold to reduce the cost of new ones. We have had enough of the President and Vice President flying ‘Molue’ buses’.”

What do experts say?

Commenting on the aircraft purchase and seizure, former President of the National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers, Mr Sheri Kyari, decried Nigeria’s consistency for dishonouring contracts.

Kyari said: “These types of things are not rocket science, the other people do it in other countries and they successfully achieve them. Why will Nigeria be the only one every now and then? This thing started even way back with Nigeria Airways aircraft and sometimes for issues that Nigeria Airways knew nothing about. I think our country needs to wake up because our resources are dwindling, our population is increasing, yet we find ourselves only concerned about personal aggrandizement.

“It is very sad. How often do the offices charged with reviewing these contracts do so? How often are they reviewed? How often? We just sign once and people go back. Everybody goes to sleep, we get caught up with it and at the end of the day are unable to get ourselves out of it. It’s very sad.”

Adequate maintenance

Kyari noted that rather than purchase a new aircraft to add to the PAF, the old aircraft could have served its purpose by adequate maintenance.

He said: “All I know is the aircraft the President was using is an aircraft that can be maintained. It is probably ten times cheaper to maintain. Nigeria is a poor country behaving like a rich country. Because we want to be seen as a big boy in international politics, we decided that the President must have a wonderful aircraft. I don’t know how we will get out of it, but it is totally sad that we found ourselves in this quagmire this time around,” arguing that the Airbus A330 could have been bought for a lesser price.

Cheaper price

Kyari added: “It is a presidential aircraft. You can get the aircraft for less. But again, when they begin to furnish it for presidential use, security and others that will be added, they are not cheap as such. The president will have his bathroom, his bedroom, his conference and office on board the aircraft. So, those ones are going to be reconstructed as such. And they will be done with the best of materials. So, that alone, you can look at furnishing and can take some $5 to $10 million or more depending on what they want to add.

Lifespan

“There are times the manufacturer will give you 15 years for an economic commercial aircraft. If it is a commercial aircraft, the manufacturer will give you 10 years within which they believe you would have scooped your profit. And when you start maintenance now, it becomes very expensive. But presidential aircraft like this, you don’t need to have any time for it. If it is well maintained, it can be operated for up to 30 years. One of the American Nav 1 aircraft is more than 25 years old now.

“But it is constantly being maintained, knowing that it is their number one citizen that is flying. Here in Nigeria, whether the aircraft is good or not, you will get to the point where it is economically not viable. Rather, they sell it to somebody who they want. But you will be surprised that somebody who comes from outside the country and buys that same aircraft will operate it for many more years.”

Funds

Shedding light, Chief Executive Officer of Centurion Aviation Security and Safety Consult, Group Captain John Ojikutu, retd, wondered who provided funding for the aircraft’s purchase.
Ojikutu, who spoke to Sunday Vanguard, said liquidated Nigeria Airways had similar experience in the past.

He said: “Who approved that money for the jet? Was it approved by the National Assembly? From what I have heard, the National Assembly did not approve that money. That is number one. Second, I heard that they seized those aircraft because Ogun State negated the agreement between them and the Chinese.

“Now, can they do that? I don’t know the court to which they went. Can they take something from the federal government and give it to the state? I don’t know. The judgment they have given is against the state government for negating on the agreement they had with the Chinese. There is something wrong and the people in the administration of government, which include the National Assembly, are not saying anything. This has happened to Nigeria Airways before. Some of them (the jets) must have been there before this crisis started for maintenance. They must have been in that place for maintenance.”

Price

On his part, an industry expert, who spoke to Sunday Vanguard under anonymity, explained that creditors always desired to seize aircraft when they operate into a territory where they know the law was favourable to them.

“Most new aircraft sold from a manufacturer would have a list price, but almost no airline pays that amount. Big airlines get huge discounts when they purchase in bulk (100s) while smaller airlines do still get discounts they are much smaller. Regarding the Nigerian government aircraft, these are no longer new and won’t or shouldn’t command those kinds of figures ($100m).

“When new, a Boeing 737 will cost about $60m depending on configuration and options chosen while the A330 could be up to $100m, but remember that it wasn’t purchased new so the price would be anywhere between $30m and $50m. Considering corruption in Nigeria, I wouldn’t be surprised if someone claims it was purchased for $100m and the difference went into someone’s pocket.

“Creditors always look to hold or seize aircraft when they operate into a territory where they know the law is on their side. So, if they can convince a French court that the owners of the aircraft are indebted to them, then the court can order the assets held.”

Billionaire businessman Obinna Iyiegbu, better known as Obi Cubana, has recounted the harrowing experience that turned his world upside down when his wife, Ebele, was struck by a mysterious illness shortly after giving birth to their son.

Obi made this revelation during an interview with presenter Chude Jideonwo.

According to him, what should have been a moment of pure joy quickly morphed into a nightmare as the doctors in the South African hospital delivered a devastating verdict to him about Ebele  never walking again, and her days of childbirth were over.

For Obi, this news was like a sledgehammer to the chest, leaving him utterly destabilized and emotionally shattered. That night, he said the weight of his anguish brought him to tears, his mind raced with fear and uncertainty.

But amidst the crushing despair, Obi Cubana recounted how Ebele displayed an unyielding strength that left him in awe.

The billionaire said his wife was unfazed by the grim prognosis, reassured him with unwavering positivity, told him to cast aside his worries about the doctor’s report and trust in God.

He added that just when he thought the situation couldn’t get any worse, some of his so-called friends took it upon themselves to spread vile, despicable rumors that he had sacrificed his wife in a money ritual. This cruel betrayal, according to him, pierced his heart, left him deeply saddened.

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The former governor of Ogun State, Ibikunle Amosun, has spoken regarding the ongoing dispute between Zhongshan Fucheng Industrial Investment Co. Ltd, a Chinese firm, and the Nigerian government.

The disagreement has recently escalated, leading to the seizure of three Nigerian aircraft stationed at Paris-Le Bourget and Basel-Mulhouse airports in Europe.

The dispute stems from a contract the Ogun State government revoked in 2016 during Amosun’s tenure as governor.

The revocation led Zhongshan to pursue legal action, resulting in the seizure of the aircraft as part of an arbitration ruling against Nigeria.

The firm alleged that the Nigerian government had reneged on an agreement, prompting it to seek enforcement through international arbitration.

In a recent turn of events, Zhongshan agreed to release one of the seized jets after learning that President Bola Tinubu required the aircraft for a scheduled meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron.

Reacting to the situation, Senator Amosun, in a statement personally signed by him on Saturday, recounted the role he played in the original deal and expressed his readiness to work with the federal government to ensure any foreign entity does not exploit Nigeria.

The statement, titled, ‘Zhongfu firm is an impostor, it’s Chinese against Chinese dispute’ reads, “Our administration assumed office on 29 May, 2011. Very shortly after we took office, two different sets of Chinese companies, Messrs China Africa Investment FXE and Zhongfu International Investment FXE laid claims to Management rights over the Ogun Guangdong Free Trade Zone (OGFTZ).

“The business dispute and rivalry between the Chinese concerns soon became fierce, grounded seamless business activities and threatened public peace and safety within the Zone and neighboring communities.

“There were claims and counter claims as to who between the two was the lawful representative of the original joint venturer, Guangdong Province, China and consequentially who had the right to manage the Zone.

“Zhongfu International Investment FXE, pretending to be a concerned and genuine tenant and Zone stakeholder volunteered very damaging and destructive information about the official representatives of Guangdong Province, the Joint Venturer and lawful Zone Managers, China Africa Investment FXE and subsequently requested to be appointed as Interim Zone Managers.

“Based on the information at the disposal of Government at the time, Zhongfu International Investment FXE was on 15/03/2012 appointed as Interim Zone Manager pending further evaluation. The whole idea was to ensure that someone was in charge and thereby prevent unwholesome and untoward development in the Zone pending the completion of our fact finding exercise.

“It was later discovered that the information and claims volunteered by Zhongfu International Investment FXE against China Africa Investment FXE were tissues of lies.

“Unknown to Ogun Government at the time, Zhongfu International Investment FXE merely sought to de-market China Africa Investment FXE and to surreptitiously covert the State-owned assets of Guangdong Province in China together with the Zone ownership and management rights of their business rival.

“It was further discovered – much later – through the intervention of the Chinese Government via Diplomatic Note 1601, dated 11 March, 2016.

“The Government of the People’s Republic of China, via its Diplomatic Note 1601 dated 11th March, 2016 clarified to the Ogun State Government, that China Africa Investment FXE was the rightful investor. After due consultation with the relevant organs of Government, we gave effect to the request of the Chinese Government.

“We do recall that Zhongfu International Investment FXE approached Nigerian courts in different jurisdictions to ventilate its legal and business rights. They lost all their four cases in court.”

“We also consulted with and took advice from the State Security Services and the supervising Agency, NEPZA, on the best way to proceed. Accordingly, we served Zhongfu International Investment FXE with formal Termination Notice dated 27 May, 2016.

“For completeness of records, we must mention that Zhongfu International Investment FXE proceeded to Court.

“Among others, the proceedings in Suit No HCT/417/2016: Zhongfu International Investment FXE Vs OGFTZ and, FCT/ABJ/CS/601/2016: Zhongfu International Investment FXE Vs NEPZA & Ors will help to throw light on this business dispute between two Chinese entities- Zhongfu and China Africa.

“The final judgement in one other case, Suit No AB/04/2017: Zenith Global Merchant International Investment Ltd Vs Zhongfu International Investment FXE delivered on 29/3/2017 specifically restrained a reference to arbitration in the special circumstances of the matter being a trade dispute between two Chinese entities- Zhongfu and China Africa, with little or no connection with either Ogun State or the Federal Government.

“Not satisfied with the decisions of the various courts, Zhongfu International Investment FXE took its case, and wrote petitions at various times, to higher authorities in Abuja; the Presidency, Hon Minister of Trade & Investment; Attorney General & Minister of Justice, Inspector General of Police, EFCC and the National Assembly (both the House of Representatives and the Senate) among others.

“We successfully defended our actions at all levels before these organs of government, and they all agreed with our position. Shortly after, our administration left office in May, 2019.

“In conclusion, without prejudice to the ongoing efforts of the Ogun State Government and the Federal Government of Nigeria, and with all sense of responsibility I wish to categorically state that:

“The agreement that was entered into at inception of the Zone in 2007 with our predecessor is what is still in operation and there was no need for any negotiation or re-negotiation of any contract when we came in and throughout our eight (8) years tenure.

“It is also not true that our administration sent police or any security agent to harass, intimidate, or beat anyone. If there was any such situation, it must have been from among the disputing rivals in the bid to outdo one another. Security agencies can further investigate the allegation and uphold the truth.

“Nigeria should not give Zhongfu International Investment FXE any listening ear as doing so would amount to indulging and, encouraging an unlawful entity without locus standi to appropriate our common patrimony.

“Stemming from the above, this matter of Zhongfu International Investment FXE should be treated the way Nigeria treated the P&ID case. There is no basis for negotiation.”

A fresh investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has revealed alleged corruption linked to the former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Godwin Emefiele.

The investigation focuses on printing one billion pieces of ₦100 banknotes and the production of 5,000 acrylic blocks in commemoration of Nigeria’s centenary celebration in October 2014.

Sources within the EFCC who spoke with the Premium Times disclosed that Emefiele allegedly bypassed the standard approval process by securing direct approval from former President, Goodluck Jonathan without first passing the proposal through the CBN board as mandated by the CBN Act of 2007.

According to the investigation, this contract, valued at $121.66 million (₦18.91 billion at the time), was awarded to Swedish company Crane Currency, raising concerns of overinflation and kickbacks.

The EFCC’s findings indicated that the payment arrangement breached established practices, with 60% of the contract sum ($72.99 million) advanced to Crane Currency through its Nigerian subsidiary.

Investigators allege that only $39.85 million was actually transferred to Crane, while the balance of $32.72 million was held back, converted to naira, and used to enrich top officials of the CBN and their associates.

The EFCC has reportedly recovered ₦3.18 billion of the inflated amount so far.

However, sources say that pressures are being mounted on the anti-graft agency’s leadership to release the funds, with claims that the proceeds are from legitimate transactions.

The EFCC spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, confirmed that the investigation is ongoing but declined to provide further details, stating, “There is nothing I can tell you at this point because our people are still working on the matter.”

Just hours after setting social media ablaze with a cryptic promise to reveal his side of the truth, Jude Okoye of PSquare has finally unleashed a Pandora’s box of secrets that will never be sealed again.

The older brother of the famous duo, Paul and Peter, during live session, spilled the kind of tea that leaves a bitter taste, delved deep into the decade-long feud that has rocked their once-unbreakable bond.

Jude, who was unceremoniously ousted from the group over eight years ago, exposed how his wife was dragged into the mud, only to be later cleared of all baseless accusations, shed light on Peter’s alleged calculated attempt to drag them through the mud in front of the world.

In a surprising twist, the former label executive also dropped the revelation that he isn’t even the eldest of the Okoye brothers. Contrary to what many believed, there are two older brothers above him and the twins, turning the family narrative on its head.

The plot thickened when Jude dismantled Peter’s narrative about a supposed fake company used to embezzle PSquare’s funds. Jude clarified that the company in question isn’t some shadowy shell but a legitimate, publicly listed firm registered with the CAC.

He went further to explain that his wife, who was falsely accused of being a signatory to the company’s accounts, was merely a second director on paper—a fact the EFCC itself had allegedly confirmed.

The former powerhouse behind Square Records, admitted that he hasn’t been involved with PSquare since 2018. He laid bare the stark reality that he is far from the wealth Peter and Paul have amassed.

This led him to question the puzzling claims Peter makes about being “suppressed” by him, wondering what power Peter thinks he wields when he’s been out of the picture and far less wealthy.

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