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The Senior Pastor of the Commonwealth of Zion Assembly (COZA), Pastor Biodun Fatoyinbo, has declared that while the devil fears prayers, he does not fear poor people.
Fatoyinbo made the statement while preaching to his congregation in a viral video online.
The clergy emphasised the importance of financial success and stability alongside spiritual growth.
He recounted a story of a man who went to preach the gospel but was chased away by another man who questioned his appearance, asking, “Has God helped you? Look at the way you look.”
According to him, the devil wants people to stay behind and make noise even though “Jesus became poor for our sake that through the grace of God we might become rich.”
Fatoyinbo encouraged his members to pursue spiritual and material wealth, stressing that financial resources can effectively help spread the gospel.
Media
No fewer than 7,228 inmates were pardoned by federal and state governments, chief justices and nongovernmental organisations between January 2022 and December 2024, as part of efforts to decongest the nation’s overcrowded correctional centres.
The figures were obtained from media reports and compiled by our correspondent on Saturday.
According to recent data from the Nigerian Correctional Service, the total inmate population stands at 79,125 exceeding the system’s capacity of slightly more than 50,000.
Of this number, 52,903 inmates are awaiting trial. Most of these individuals face serious charges such as armed robbery, murder, and culpable homicide, which require lengthy investigations and prosecutions.
In 2022, 707 inmates were pardoned. The figure rose significantly in 2023 to 4,678, with another 1,843 pardoned in 2024.
A major release occurred on November 18, 2023, when 4,068 inmates were freed across the country due to their inability to pay fines.
The gesture initiated by the Federal Government was made possible through N585m raised by corporate organisations as part of their corporate social responsibility.
The NCoS spokesperson, Abubakar Umar, who recently spoke to our correspondent in an interview, attributed the overcrowding primarily to delays in the dispensation of justice.
To address these challenges, the NCoS adopted several measures, including facilitating judicial access for inmates by ensuring their timely appearance in court.
Non-custodial measures, such as community service and probation, have also been introduced to ease pressure on correctional centres.
The agency is collaborating with state governments to grant clemency to reformed inmates and has partnered with state judiciaries to conduct regular jail delivery exercises.
The Lagos State Police Command has arrested a 21-year-old US returnee, David Segun, and two others for allegedly killing an Uber driver in the Obalende area of Lagos State.
The Commissioner of Police, Ishola Olanrewaju, disclosed this while parading the suspects at the state command headquarters on Saturday.
Olanrewaju disclosed that Segun and his friends, Emeka Akwara (19) Samuel Ariori (21) and Lukman Ariori (19) ordered an Uber ride from Chevron in Lekki to Obalende at midnight on Thursday, January 9.
He said upon arriving at a lonely area in Obalende, the suspects allegedly robbed and killed the Uber driver by stabbing him multiple times in the neck.
According to him, the suspects were unable to snatch the vehicle, and two among them were apprehended on the spot by members of the community.
He said, “On January 9, 2025, at about midnight, a case of conspiracy, armed robbery and murder was reported. One Emeka Akwara 19yrs, David Segun, 21yrs, Samuel Ariori, 21yrs and Lukman Ariori, 19yrs ordered an Uber at Chevron in the Lekki area – en-route to Obalende. On getting to Obalende in a lonely area, they robbed and killed the Uber driver by stabbing him multiple times in the neck, unfortunately, they were unable to snatch the vehicle.
“With the intervention of good Samaritans within the environs, two suspects were immediately arrested and were handed over to police operatives attached to Lion Building. “
The Police chief further stated that two other fleeing suspects were arrested in the Chevron area of the state, adding that the deceased’s corpse was deposited in the morgue at Mainland Hospital, Yaba.
Olanrewaju who explained that an investigation had begun into the incident described Segun as a US returnee as well as the gang’s leader.
While pointing at him, Olanrewaju said, “This is their team leader. He was sent home from America by his father. The mother at home could still not handle him. The failure of society is placed on the police. We are not complaining, it is a job we signed up for. They will be facing criminal prosecution right from Monday.
“I wonder the value of what this vehicle will fetch in the market that made them snuff the life out of the owner. Probably the man even took the vehicle on hire purchase,” he added.
Other suspects were paraded for kidnapping, cultism, armed robbery, carjacking and other various acts of criminalities.
The CP also noted that the command had intelligence-led policing during the yuletide season which resulted in a peaceful celebration.
“During this period, we had intelligence-led policing that resulted in the peaceful yuletide season that we had in Lagos. It is on record that Murtala Muhammed airport received nothing less than 500,000 diasporan Nigerians and ninety percent of whom did not go outside of Lagos for celebration,” he added.
The Transmission Company, TCN, of Nigeria has clarified that the National Grid did not collapse but rather tripped off on Saturday, January 11, 2025.
The spokesperson of TCN, Ndidi Mbah, made this clarification in a statement on Saturday.
This comes as it emerged that the National Grid recorded its first collapse in 2025 on Saturday, which plunged parts of the country into darkness.
However, TCN clarified that the Benin-Omotosho line tripped off at around 13:41 pm on Saturday.
TCN, however, confirmed that the tripping off affected the bulk supply of electricity to the Lagos axis.
According to TCN, electricity generation at the national grid stood at 2,573.23 megawatts after the tripping.
“Benin-Omotosho Line Tripping, Not System Collapse The Transmission Company of Nigeria, TCN, hereby states that the nation’s grid did not experience any collapse today (Saturday).
“Earlier today, at about 13:41 hrs, the Osogbo-Ihovbor line tripped, followed by the tripping of the Benin-Omotosho line. These consequently affected bulk supply to only the Lagos axis alone.
“It is important to clarify that at about 13:00 hrs today, just before the tripping, total generation on the grid was 4,335.63 MW. After the trippings, however, generation was 2,573.23 MW, showing clearly that the grid did not experience a collapse.
“The transmission line tripping affected Egbin, Olorunsogo, Omotosho, Geregu, and Paras, but these have all been restored except for the Benin Omotosho 330kV line, whose restoration is ongoing,” TCN stated.
DAILY POST reports that in 2024 alone, the national grid collapsed at least 12 times.
National grid collapses, vandalisation, and other challenges the nation’s electricity supply industry faces.
[DailyPost]
The Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodinma, has urged unknown gunmen still in hiding to lay down their arms and join society in contributing positively to the progress of the state.
Uzodinma made the appeal at the funeral of the slain former Imo APC Woman leader, Orlu zone, Jenny Rachael Okonkwo, who was murdered in 2022 by suspected hoodlums
He promised that the government would help in providing financial aid in any kind of business the bandits choose to go into to be useful to themselves and society.
Addressing the mourners at the country home of the late APC woman leader in Ogberuru, Orlu LGA , the Governor condemned the conditions under which the woman leader was assassinated, insisting that the Party and the State lost a gem in her.
Uzodinma prayed for the repose of her soul and the souls of the four other women assassinated with her and proceeded to approve the sum of ₦10 million for each of the deceased families.
He also promised that the government will be willing to employ any of their children who is employable or in the alternative train them if they are willing to learn a trade or skill.
He said, “She was one of the best organizers and mobilizers, not only in Orlu Local Government but in Imo State in general. A very committed party woman, who worked, suffered, served the Party and the government, and because of her commitment, political opponents assassinated her.
“When Rachael was assassinated alongside four others, the senseless political violence and gruesome killings in the area was not known. Those who are behind the political killings in Orlu zone are still at work but very soon the wrath of God will catch up with them.”
Uzodinma hinted that strangers were recruited by unscrupulous politicians to kill and assassinate their own brothers and sisters in the name of politics.
He, however, said with the help of God, Orlu people are beginning to see that those behind the killings in the LGA and other areas do not mean well for the state.
The Governor, called on all affected by the death of late Okonkwo to take heart and remain committed to the Party and the state.
A former governor of Kano State, Ibrahim Shekarau, is leading the northern elite to woo southern bigwigs for an alliance ahead of the 2027 general elections, Sunday PUNCH reports.
Sources said former President Olusegun Obasanjo and ex-Head of State, Yakubu Gowon, are among supporters of the group.
Our correspondents gathered that Shekarau, a leader of the League of Northern Democrats, had been discussing coalitions with political leaders in the South-West, South-East, and South-South.
The Convener of the LND, Dr Umar Ardo, had on January 5, declared the group’s readiness to transform into a political party, citing the need to create a unified and credible national political platform.
According to Ardo, the LND plans to transform into the League of National Democrats to provide Nigerians with a viable alternative for leadership and governance.
“This new political platform seeks to provide a credible alternative by institutionalising meritocracy, promoting accountability, and ensuring the emergence of leaders with proven competence and integrity,” Ardo stated.
Sunday PUNCH gathered that Obasanjo and Gowon advised the group’s leaders to make it a national platform and incorporate southern politicians.
Obasanjo had late October 2024 urged the LND to consider changing its name to the National League of Democrats because the ideals the group espoused should cut across the nation.
The former president, who received the 20-member delegation of the LND led by Shekarau at his penthouse, inside Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library, Abeokuta, said he would not mind being the group’s patron.
“It is high time we began working for the national interest. Yes, you have identified your group as the League of Northern Democrats, but how I wish you call your group National League of Democrats, because where you come from should not be a problem,” he stated.
Umar Sani, a former spokesperson for ex-Vice President Namadi Sambo, who is a pioneer member of the LND, told Sunday PUNCH that both Obasanjo and Gowon were among the backers of the group.
Sani confirmed that Shekarau was leading discussions with prominent southern politicians.
He said, “We’re talking with some southern politicians, but I don’t know who they are. Shekarau and others are making the moves and doing the talking.
“But when we met Baba Obasanjo, he said the initiative should be made national. General Gowon also said it should be national, and other influential Nigerians gave similar advice.
“When we engaged politicians in the South-East, South-South, and South-West, they began suggesting that this movement be turned into a political party. While we were briefed in meetings, the leaders didn’t disclose the names of the southern politicians they were speaking to.”
Sani clarified that the LND had not yet been registered as a political party, as consultations were still ongoing.
The spokesperson for the group, Dr Ladan Salihu, said discussions were ongoing with southern leaders, including former governors, senators, and ministers.
According to him, even before they set out to approach the politicians, the LND had already been contacted by key political clusters from the South-East.
“We’ve been contacted by notable politicians from the South, especially from the South-East, who indicated plans to form the League of Southern Democrats.
“Similarly, respected politicians from the South-West have shown interest in joining the LND if it becomes a national platform, or they may even form the League of Western Democrats.
“This is a political metamorphosis that will culminate in the creation of what will eventually become the League of Nigerian Democrats,” he stated.
While declining to name southern politicians the LND leader had been in contact with, Salihu confirmed that the group was in regular communication with “respected southern leaders”.
“We are in constant, almost daily contact with them because they share our vision of rescuing Nigeria. This is not just a rhetorical platform; it’s a serious movement based on real action,” he stated.
The LND’s move comes amid political manoeuvres by many leaders aiming to unseat President Bola Tinubu in 2027.
Opposition leaders have intensified efforts towards major political realignments, including potential mergers of political parties, to challenge the All Progressives Congress in the next general elections.
On November 26, 2024, it was reported that the 2023 Peoples Democratic Party presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, his Labour Party counterpart, Peter Obi, and former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, had concluded plans to either form a new party or adopt an existing one to establish a coalition ahead of 2027.
Atiku’s spokesperson, Paul Ibe, later confirmed that Atiku and Obi had been engaging in discussions to form a united front against the APC.
Similarly, the Peoples Redemption Party and African Democratic Congress confirmed initiating discussions about a potential merger ahead of the elections.
On December 14, 2024, Obasanjo hosted former Kano State governor, Rabiu Kwankwaso, and former Cross River State governor, Donald Duke, in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
According to Kwankwaso, the discussions centred on “significant national issues, including the future of politics and governance in Nigeria.”
We’re not threatened – APC, PDP
Meanwhile, the APC has said it is not threatened by the potential political alliance, asserting that it will not lose sleep over the proposed mega party being considered by northern and southern political bigwigs.
The APC’s National Publicity Director, Bala Ibrahim, told Sunday PUNCH that the party was aware of the political moves, warning that Nigeria’s governance should not be left to desperate politicians.
However, he expressed confidence that President Tinubu would secure a second term as Nigerians began to reap the benefits of his administration’s economic reforms.
He said, “The APC and the President are very much aware of the shenanigans of the opposition. But it will be almost impossible for someone from outside, particularly an outsider who has previously failed the country, to think of defeating the incumbent.
“We expect to start seeing the fruits of these reforms around the time of the election—2026 and 2027. By then, people will begin to appreciate the party and the President.
“That does not mean the party and the President are complacent. No, we are strategising. When we get to the bridge, we will see who has the strongest stride to cross it. I assure you, the APC will not falter or be caught napping.”
Similarly, the Peoples Democratic Party stated that the LND’s attempt to transform into a political party did not pose a threat to its prospects in future elections.
In an interview with Sunday PUNCH, the PDP Deputy National Youth Leader, Timothy Osadolor, said no coalition or merger could defeat the APC without the PDP.
In response to LND’s move to transform into a party as an alternative to the PDP and APC, he said the character and consistency of the group’s members should be scrutinised.
“They are no threat to the PDP. There is no merger or coalition whatsoever, that can defeat the APC without the PDP’s input.
“We saw it in 2023. The Labour Party, NNPP and what came out of it? All forms of coalition are welcome to defeat the All Progressives Congress, but characters like Shekarau should first tell themselves or ask themselves some further questions; are they consistent, are they credible, do they still have electoral value?,” he queried.
The PDP leader also stated that Shekarau could not drive any meaningful change.
“Shekarau himself knows that as of today, his position is over and above his weight, and he lacks the capacity to reallypush anything significant.
“In the last five to six years, how many parties and groups have Shekarau belonged to? These people are not the type that should lead any move. Unless we are a people that don’t learn. If we don’t learn, we will be condemned to repeat the mistakes of history,” he added.
[TheCable]
Borno State Commissioner for Education, Science, Technology, and Innovation, Lawan Wakilbe has raised concerns about the rising issue of prostitution among former Boko Haram captives.
He made the remarks during a courtesy visit by Hamsatu Allamin, the CEO of the Allamin Foundation for Peace, on Friday in Maiduguri. Wakilbe highlighted that some of the freed victims were exposed to sexual exploitation due to their vulnerability during captivity by the terrorists.
The commissioner noted that prostitution is especially prevalent in the local government areas of Bama, Banki, and Gwoza. He shared a distressing encounter with an 11-year-old girl, surrounded by three other children, which he described as heartbreaking. He also mentioned that Cameroonian authorities had recently repatriated young girls, aged 13 to 15, who had multiple children.
Wakilbe emphasized the urgent need for reintegration and support for these vulnerable individuals, pointing out that the widespread sexual abuse could be attributed to poverty and the lack of viable survival alternatives.
• critics express concerns
•Oyo won’t permit illegality – Makinde
MURIC talks tough
‘I don’t think we are ready for Sharia court’
Controversy has erupted in South-West Nigeria over the establishment of Sharia panels in the region, with Muslim leaders emphasizing their right to self-determination and non-Muslim groups expressing apprehensions about the potential implications of such panels.
The distinction between Sharia courts and panels is at the heart of the controversy.
However, Muslim leaders maintain that Sharia panels are not courts but rather arbitration committees that handle civil matters such as marriage, divorce, inheritance, and disputes over contractual agreements between Muslims.
Sharia court is part of the judicial system in the North where Muslims are dominant in population. Still, there have been agitations for the court to also operate in the South-West where Muslims have a large presence but Christians are dominant in many states of the region.
Beginning
It all started after a group in Oyo town in Oyo State, South-West signalled its intention to set up a Sharia panel in the area.
The Supreme Council for Sharia in Nigeria, SCSN, (Oyo Branch) announced the indefinite postponement of the inauguration slated for yesterday, January 11, following widespread outcry.
In a statement signed by the Khadimul Muslimeen of Oyo Kingdom, Imam Daud Igi Ogun, the group said, “The inauguration ceremony of the Supreme Council for Shari’ah in Nigeria (Oyo branch) has been suspended until further notice. Islam portrays peace.”
The planned inauguration was to take place at the Muslim Community Islamic Centre in Mobolaje Area, Oyo.
Prominent Muslim leaders expected at the botched ceremony included the Basorun of Oyoland, High Chief Yusuf Akinade Olayinka, and the Aare Musulumi of Oyoland, Alhaji Chief Tajudeen Abdul-Hammed Kamorise, amongst others.
But the suspension did not stop some individuals under the aegis of Yoruba Council Worldwide (Igbimo Apapo Yoruba Lagbaye) from threatening to institute legal action against the promoters of the Oyo Sharia panel if they did not completely abandon the plan.
A group, Muslims Rights Concern (MURIC), joined the fray, last week, when it dared the Yoruba Council Worldwide to do its worst, saying the Sharia panel being planned in Oyo was different from Sharia court.
For emphasis, MURIC said critics of the Sharia panel were ignorant as the development was not new to the South-West as it has operated for years in many parts of the region.
It said in a statement signed by its Director, Prof Ishaq Akintola: “A Yoruba group under the name Yoruba Council Worldwide (Igbimo Apapo Yoruba Lagbaye) has threatened to take legal action against Muslims planning to launch Sharia court in Oyo town, Oyo State if they go ahead with the plan.
“But this is a deliberate attempt to create tension because, in reality, nobody is planning to inaugurate a Sharia court. What is being planned in Oyo town is a Sharia panel. It is only the state or Federal Government that has the constitutional power to create a court.
“On the contrary, any group of people can set up a panel. A panel is just a committee. A group can set up a committee or panel and an organization can do same. The Yoruba group is just crying wolf where there is none because we explained all these in our statement of Thursday, 26th December, 2024.
“We want to correct the impression that Oyo Muslims plan to inaugurate a Shari’ah court. What Oyo Muslims are planning is not a Shari’ah ‘court’ but a Shari’ah panel. This is something that has been in existence in Yorubaland since 2003 to date. It therefore accused the Yoruba group of making a mountain out of a molehill.
“How sensible is it for anyone to say Muslims should not form a committee? How logical is it to say Muslims should not hold meetings inside their mosques and halls? This Yoruba group is not well informed, otherwise it should have known that what it is trying to stop already exists in all the states of the South-West.
“Already, there are Shari’ah panels sitting at the Central Mosque, Oja Oba, Ibadan, Oyo State (since 1st May, 2002); Abesan Central Mosque, Ipaja, Lagos State (since 2003); Egba Muslims Central Mosque, Kobiti, Abeokuta, Ogun State (since 17th January 2018); Osun State Muslim Community Secretariat, Ring Road, Oshogbo (since 2005).
“Going by the venues mentioned here it is clear that the Shari’ah panels are not using government’s buildings or courts. They use mosques because the Shari’ah panels are private arbitration panels. But they already exist. So this Yoruba group is trying to shut the stable door after the horse has escaped.
“Only those who want to make caricatures of themselves will think of stopping the Shari’ah panels. They are not disturbing anybody. They have never and will never invite Christians to appear before them.
“Even the Muslims who appear before them do so voluntarily because the Shari’ah panels have no power of enforcement. So what is the big deal? Why so much fuss? Isn’t this much ado about nothing? What does this Yoruba group want except to heat up the polity? They are attention seekers.
“Even the letter sent by the group was addressed to the wrong person. The letter was addressed to Shaykh Abdul Rasheed Hadiyatullahi whereas the latter is not part of the Oyo town team. He is in Iwo, Osun State.
“Their claim that Shari’ah has no history in Yorubaland is absolute bunkum. To set the records straight, Shari’ah is of great antiquity in this part of the country. We will tell them about it because our people say ‘when a child rejects pounded yam in the evening, his parents will narrate the story of his mother’s marriage to him.’
“Where were these people who are now opposing ordinary Shari’ah panel in Yorubaland when Oba Abibu Olagunju of Ede employed Qadi Sindiku to operate the Shari’ah court at Agbeni area of Ede town? The court functioned at Agbeni up till 1913. It was moved to Agbongbon area of the town in 1914.
“Where were they when Oba Momodu Lamuye who died in 1906 established a Shari’ah court in Iwo? Were they born yet when Oba Aliyu Oyewole of Ikirun employed Mallam Bako as the qadi (judge) from 1910? This is history. This is our past, the past of Shari’ah. We will not allow anyone to cut us away from our past. Today was born from the wombs of yesterday.
“It was the British imperialists who curtailed the application of Shari’ah via the repugnancy and validity tests and replaced them with Christian common law in the whole South-West but they retained civil Shari’ah in the North.
“It is only that civil Shari’ah that Yoruba Muslims are activating in their Shari’ah panels without official involvement because none of the South-West governors since independence have had the liberal or democratic mien to allow the application of Sections 275(1), 276 and 277 of the 1999 Nigerian Constitution which allow the practice of Shariah in any state with substantial Muslim population.
“It is gratifying that the Yoruba group has threatened to go to court. We assure them that Yoruba Muslims are not afraid of legal action over Shari’ah. The law is on our side. But we advise that they should take a good look at the sections of the constitution cited above before doing so and make sure they ask those who went to court before over Shari’ah. We are waiting.”
‘Oyo won’t allow illegality’
Reacting, Governor Seyi Makinde declared that government would not allow illegality.
His Chief Press Secretary, Dr Sulaimon Olanrewaju, said: ”Oyo State will not permit anything illegal. The focus isn’t about wanting Sharia or not but ensuring that any structure aligns with the legal system we operate”.
Also, Makinde, in a statewide broadcast, acknowledged that the initiative had caused anxiety and promised to uphold the laws and the Constitution of Nigeria.
“If their actions are within the law, fine, if not, they should expect that I will insist the law must be followed”.
Perspectives
In a bid to explore the intricate dynamics surrounding the establishment of Sharia panels in the South-West, Sunday Vanguard engaged with both Muslim stakeholders and non-Muslims to gather a diverse range of perspectives on the matter.
As discussions intensify regarding the role of Sharia in the region’s legal framework, opinions vary widely.
Supporters expanded their wish to include the establishment of Sharia courts as a means of recognizing and accommodating the unique legal needs of the Muslim community, while critics expressed concerns about potential implications for broader societal cohesion.
This engagement aims to illuminate the complexities of the ongoing debate, highlighting the hopes, fears, and historical contexts that shape the views of both communities.
A legal practitioner, who is also a Sharia judge (Qadi) at the Sharia Panel in Lagos State, Mr. Trimizee Adisa Dairo, said the quest for Sharia panels is about asserting their right to live according to their faith.
“Sharia is part and parcel of a Muslim’s life,” Dairo emphasized. “It encompasses our private and public life, social and economic life. Our lives are regulated by Sharia.
“Sharia is part and parcel of a Muslim’s life, and no Muslim will deny that.
“Again, Sharia is wide and comprehensive. It encompasses our private and public life, social and economic life. Our lives are regulated by Sharia.
“Therefore, it is impossible for a Muslim to live without Sharia. Once you take away Sharia from the life of a Muslim, he becomes a non-Muslim. That is how important it is. It is not like other religions that regulate their practices on a matter of faith. That is why Sharia is very important to a Muslim and in a Muslim’s life.”
Difference
“There is agitation by Muslims in the South-West to allow the application of Sharia so that Muslim marriages will be governed by Sharia as opposed to Yoruba customary law, Muslim inheritance will be governed by Sharia as opposed to customary law, and the guardianship of children will be regulated by Sharia law.
“These are permissible, and these are what are going on in the North. It is the right of Muslims in the South-West to be governed by the law of their religion regarding those highlighted matters.
“Since the Constitution expressly provides for this, it is a genuine agitation that has been ongoing for some time.
“That is as far as the official courts are concerned because it is the business of the government to establish courts to govern people in the state.
“Also note that none of the states in the South-West has acceded to that; they have all rejected it, apparently because of criticisms and opposition from non-Muslims. “But on the issue of having a panel, it is different. It is like arbitration, and the law of arbitration is very clear. A Muslim can decide to contract his marriage under Sharia and within the fold of Islam, and when this is done, he has the fundamental right to seek redress on the same issue under an arbitration panel.
“That does not require any form of state approval because it falls under the freedom of association to submit willingly to arbitration proceedings.
“If both parties submit to the arbitration proceedings, then the decision becomes binding on them.
“It is not for Christians and non-Muslims alike to begin to cry out about why Muslims want to have an arbitration panel; it shows they are ignorant of the issue they are criticizing.
“For a Christian who has issues in his marriage, he has a place to go, which is the High Court.
“For those who willingly decide that they want to be bound by the customs and traditions of the Yoruba, if they have issues in their marriage and inheritance, they go to the Customary Court, and the customs will be upheld there.
“For Muslims who do not consent to either of the two, where do you expect them to go when they have issues? We have seen situations where Muslims go to the Customary Court on issues of marriage, and the court says it has no jurisdiction to entertain the matter because the marriage is governed by Muslim law, not customary law.
“Remember that the government has failed to create a court that will look into such matters.
“So, in order to fill the gap and circumvent that problem, Muslims have come together to establish arbitration panels.
“That is exactly what Muslims are doing all over the South-West.
“It is the failure of the government to do the needful.
“Our government officials attend Muslim marriages, but they fail to understand that the couple has no place to turn to when issues arise in their marriage. This is where the Sharia panel comes in.
Addressing misconceptions
“I think non-Muslims only focus on one aspect of Sharia, which is the criminal aspect.
“One of the public laws in Sharia is the non-criminal aspect.
“Just as Sharia is a system of law, people are always apprehensive about any law; they become apprehensive about the punishments.
“They hear about stoning to death, cutting off hands, and so on, but Sharia is not limited to that, and it is rarely possible because its execution is the duty of the state, not individuals.
“Besides, it is optional if you choose to be bound by that.
“So, I don’t know why non-Muslims should entertain any fear. Nigeria is ruled by a Constitution, and we can have two systems of law running concurrently; Sharia is allowed with very limited application as it relates to a Muslim’s private life.
“That is why the Constitution allows Muslims to be governed by Sharia in the aspects of marriage, divorce, inheritance, guardianship of children, and to some extent, in any contractual agreement. “These are the areas, so outside these areas of law, Sharia is not applicable, at least at the official level in Nigeria.
“So, non-Muslims are only being apprehensive without any basis”.
Need for panel
Responding to how Muslims were resolving marriage disputes before the advent of Sharia panels, he noted, “If those disputes had been resolved by the conventional court, it means they didn’t take cognizance of the fact that they were contracted ab initio under Islamic law, and, moreover, because there was a dearth of experts in Islamic law.
“It is not as simple as that. Muslim marriages are not the same as Christian or customary marriages.
“Yes, you can rightly assume that Christian marriages are statutory marriages.
“That is why when there are issues, they go to the conventional courts.
“As for Muslims, they cannot go to the conventional courts because Muslim marriages are Islamic in nature and regulated by Sharia.
“That is why I said earlier that Sharia governs the private and public lives of Muslims.
“These benefits are enjoyed by our northern brothers because they go to the Sharia courts on such issues.
“It should also be noted that these Sharia courts do not entertain complaints from non-Muslims.
“I don’t know the reason for the apprehension because it is strictly for Muslims and not for non-Muslims.
“You will not hear of a Sharia court in the North assuming jurisdiction over a Christian or someone whose marriage was not contracted according to Sharia.
“That is what we are clamoring for here. The agitation is simple: to adjudicate Muslim marriages, guardianship of children, and inheritances.”
Spread of Sharia
“It is not possible unless it is codified or passed into law by the state House of Assembly.
“In criminal law, you don’t commit an offence unless that offence is expressly written as a law.
“The criminal aspect has not been approved or codified by the state, so, there is no way the Sharia court will do that. “There are aspects of the Sharia the Constitution allows.
“These are areas of marriages, divorce, inheritance, guardianship and, to some extent, contract. It’s a constitutional provision”.
Between Litigation and Arbitration — Olarinde
An Ibadan-based legal practitioner, Marthina Olarinde, on his part, said, “I don’t think we are ready for that (Sharia court). It is a structure that is very rigid, and there is no escaping it. Once a judgment is pronounced, it is difficult to overturn.
“This is about religion, and you don’t play around with it. Once it is declared to be A, they go for A.
“Whatever justification anyone provides will not change that. As long as it is related to religion, it is inflexible. It is strict, and I believe we are not prepared for that.
“However, having said that, as long as anyone chooses to be bound by it, it shouldn’t pose any issues.
“The fact is that it is optional. It is up to the individual to decide whether to pursue litigation or arbitration”.
Panel can’t compel people to submit to arbitration — Shakirullahi Obale, judge
Mr. Shakirullahi Obale, another Sharia judge at the Abesan Sharia arbitration panel, offers a perspective. “The Sharia panel we are talking about in the South-West cannot compel people to submit to its arbitration.
“It is a misconception—and indeed a sign of narrow-mindedness—to believe that Islamic Sharia is solely about killing, stoning, amputation, and similar punishments.
“Today, we have Jaiz Bank and other Islamic alternative financial institutions, including Sukuk bonds and others.
“Are the operations of these Islamic-based organizations and policies about killings? “No, they are not. However, there are ill motives to distort the perception of Islam.
“There is a difference between Sharia panels and courts. A Sharia panel is solely for arbitration. As one of the judges (Qadi), we have two panels in Lagos State—one in 1004, Lagos, and the other at Abesan Estate.
“Unlike the courts, which are established by state law, a Sharia panel cannot compel people to submit to its arbitration.
“No individual or organization can establish a Sharia Court of Appeal.
“Those who criticize it and those who threaten legal action are raising issues without any basis.
“Sharia, as we know it, has been in existence in Nigeria since 1908. Some people are determined to castigate anything related to Islam.
“The Sharia panels operate in mosques to settle issues regarding marriage, inheritance, divorce, guardianship, and contracts. Therefore, there is no basis for criticism.
“Some of those who criticized Jaiz Bank and Sukuk in the past are now benefiting from them.
“They may lack knowledge about their operations, but they find it convenient to criticize. As it stands, Islamic law is recognized by the Constitution.”
‘Govt failed Muslims’
He explained further: “Muslims in the South-West are agitating because it is their right.
“The Constitution expressly provides that a Sharia Court of Appeal can be established by any state, provided it is passed into law by the state House of Assembly.
“This agitation has been present, yet none of the states in the region has acceded to the demand.
“Several proposals have been made, but they have been rejected, apparently because of criticism from non-Muslims.
“As for the establishment of a panel, it is intended for arbitration.
“The law of arbitration is very clear: it serves as a means of mediation to resolve disputes.
“In that regard, Muslims can choose to participate or not in matters related to marriage, divorce, and other issues mentioned earlier.
“This does not require any form of state approval; it is about the freedom of association. This situation arises because the government has failed in its duty to do the right thing. No Muslim can live a life outside the Sharia. It is not possible.”
Despite all the criticisms, Obale expressed optimism that the agitation will come to pass sooner.
“Yes, I hope so, and Insha Allah, it will happen”, he said.
“Whether they like it or not, we will have a Sharia Court of Appeal. I am surprised that Lagos State has not initiated this because it is known as a leading state in many aspects.
“The administration of criminal justice was started by Lagos State. One day, we will have this in one of the states”.
It’s unnecessary noise —Islamic scholar
Contributing to the Sharia controversy, the Vice President, Academy of Islamic Propagation, ACADIP, U. S. Imam, said “the Yoruba group is making an unnecessary noise as Sharia already exist in the South-West.
“lslamic law, known as Sharia, already exists and its panels have been sitting in various parts of the South-West. Besides, it is stated in the Nigerian Constitution as well; so, it is not a new concept or issue”, Imam said.
“The Constitution provides that any Muslim who wishes to be tried under Sharia law should be allowed to do so. The issue of Sharia applies to civil matters.
“Sharia is mentioned in the 1999 Constitution (as amended) more than 21 times and its applications only apply to Muslims who wish to apply it in their issues and covers civil matters.
“It does not cover the entire civil issues but those of marriage, divorce, inheritance, child custody and endowment among others.
“So, Sharia is part of our legal system and whatever anyone says is a mere opinion; as long as Muslims desire to apply Sharia in the legal issues they can have it so”.
Development won’t lead to full-blow Sharia in South-West —Islamic leader
Prof. Sabit Olagoke, founder of Shafaudeen-in-Islam, also speaking, said Sharia panel is not a court of law but a platform for arbitration, allowing Muslims to address family disputes and issues related to Islamic law in a manner that respects “our cultural and religious heritage”.
“Concerns about the panel leading to a full-blown implementation of Sharia in Oyo and the broader South-West are unfounded”, he said.
“Sharia panel operates within the framework of civil arbitration and does not possess judicial powers. It is a form of self-governance that respects our rights as a community without imposing on others.
“Recognizing that Sharia, in this context, is about facilitating peaceful resolutions among Muslims is essential, rather than establishing a parallel legal system.
“I do not harbor fears concerning the establishment of the Sharia panel. The panel has been a longstanding feature in Yorubaland, and its function is well understood by our communities.
“The resistance we are witnessing from certain groups stems from misinformation and a lack of understanding of the Sharia role in our society.
“My advice to all parties involved is to engage in constructive dialogue rather than resorting to threats of legal action.
“It is crucial for the Yoruba Council Worldwide and other stakeholders to educate themselves about the nature of the Sharia panel.
“Recognizing that this initiative is rooted in the principles of coexistence and mutual respect is vital. “We should foster an environment where different religious and cultural practices can thrive side by side, understanding that each community has the right to manage its internal affairs.
“The Sharia panel is a legitimate forum for arbitration and should not be misconstrued as a threat to the social fabric of Yorubaland.
“We must work towards understanding and tolerance, ensuring that our diverse communities can coexist peacefully”.
Secretary General, Muslim Council of Ogun State Alhaji Kamaldeen Akintunde, said that Muslims in the South-West, under the Constitution, has right to make a demand for Sharia court.
“Of course it explains why it is operated side by side with the British legal system which the country operates, especially in the northern part of the country”, Akintunde said.
“Good enough, Nigeria is a pluralistic state and multi religious.
“Making such demand or seeking to establish a Sharia panel is not out of place or something extraordinary.
“Such panel undertakes matters between Muslims. It has nothing to do with non-Muslims.
“Nevertheless, it is beneficial to non-Muslims as well since it is to regulate the affairs of Muslims in accordance with the Sharia provision which has its root in the Islamic Scripture – the Glorious Qur’an”.
“Therefore, non-Muslims as neighbours will enjoy good neighbourliness.
“Moreover, there exists such panel in the neighbouring Osun State, with Ekiti which has just inaugurated its own.
“In Ogun, it exists and it has been resolving cases such as divorce, conflicts, and personal related matters”.
“Notwithstanding that Yoruba Council has right to institute litigation, it should think twice and avoid a dissipation of energy because it is not being forced on them, including Muslims among them”.
Agitation lawful — Islamic scholar
An Islamic Scholar and public affairs commentator, Dr Akeem Bello explained that the distinction between Sharia panel and Sharia court lies in their purpose, legal authority and scope of operation.
The panel’s purpose, according to him, “is to provide Muslims with an alternative, faith-based mechanism for resolving personal disputes such as marriage, inheritance, and family matters”.
He added: “Such a panel aligns with Section 38 of the 1999 Constitution, which guarantees religious freedom, and Section 275, which permits states to establish Sharia court for personal law issues where there is a substantial Muslim population.
“This is particularly relevant in Oyo, which has a significant Muslim community that could benefit from such a mechanism.
“The establishment of the panel is not unprecedented.
“Similar mechanisms exist in other parts of the country, including Lagos, where informal Islamic arbitration systems operate effectively.
“These systems coexist peacefully with the secular courts, resolving disputes among consenting Muslims without infringing on the rights of others.
“If implemented properly, the Sharia panel in Oyo could serve as a model for promoting religious inclusivity and enhancing access to justice”.
Addressing the concern that the development could lead to full blown Sharia in Oyo and the South-West, he said it was largely unfounded.
‘No comment’
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Chairman, YEWA South, Ogun State, Catchiest John Akapo, declined comment, saying: “I don’t know anything about the agitation for the Sharia panel and I can’t comment on that”.
Sharia panel is a threat to peaceful co-existence — CAN leader
But Oyo State Chairman of the association, Apostle Joshua Akinyemiju, described it as “unconstitutional and a threat to the state’s secular nature.
Akinyemiju said: “This should not happen in Oyo State where Christians and Muslims co-exist in nearly every family.
“There’s no law to support this, and the government is not aware. We won’t allow anything that jeopardizes the peaceful coexistence we enjoy”.
Let’s avoid religious violence — Cleric
Addressing the issue, Senior Pastor of the Second Coming of Christ’s Ministry, Adewale Giwa, condemned the proposed Sharia panel’s introduction in Oyo.
Giwa said: “Oyo is not a Muslim state. It comprises all religions, especially those belonging to Islam and Christianity.
“Therefore, it is unbiblical and unconstitutional to have a Sharia panel set up in the state.
“Most of the states in the northern part of Nigeria where Sharia is operating are not peaceful. We should be very careful to avoid religious violence.
A lawyer, Taiwo Adediran, insisted that it would be illegal to embark on something that is not backed by the Constitution.
“What the Constitution recognizes is the customary court in the South and Sharia court in the North”, Adediran said.
“And if at all any state in the South wants to create Sharia court, there has to be an establishment law made to that effect by the Oyo State House of Assembly and the jurisdiction of the country will also be determined by the law made by same Assembly”.
Also speaking on the issue, Mr Deola Fehintola, a legal luminary said, “The issue of implementation of Sharia as a court or panel has to derive its authority from the Constitution through the State Assembly.”
‘Sharia is in the Bible, Quran’
To Alhaji Lai Gidado, the Publisher of Ebony Herald International Magazine, “Sharia is our daily way of life. We are practicing Sharia unconsciously. “I remember when I was growing up with my grandma, anytime I misbehaved, the next thing you hear is (ma da seriah fun e ni sin).
“My advice is to make less noise about it. Sharia is in the Bible, it is also in the Qur’an”.
Historical perspective
The Supreme Council for Sharia in Nigeria (SCSN), a legally registered entity, has been at the forefront of this struggle.
According to the SCSN, Shariah law is not just a moral code, but a complete system of law that governs all aspects of a Muslim’s life.
The group argues that the Lagos State government’s failure to establish Sharia courts has led to the marginalization of Muslims in the state.
Currently, only Common Law and Customary Law are recognized in the state, leaving Muslims without a legal framework that aligns with their faith.
The SCSN points to the 1999 Constitution, which recognizes Shariah law as one of the three legal systems in Nigeria. The group argues that the Lagos State government’s refusal to establish Shariah courts is a violation of Muslims’ constitutional rights. The SCSN has been working tirelessly to establish Shariah panels in the state, which have been operating since 2002. These panels have received widespread acceptance from Muslim Lagosians and have published select judgments in a law report.
Despite the progress made, the SCSN faces opposition from some quarters, including the Yoruba Council Worldwide, which has threatened legal action against the group. However, the SCSN remains undeterred, arguing that the demand for Shariah courts is not a new phenomenon, but a century-long struggle for recognition and justice.
The group’s efforts have been bolstered by court judgments, including a 2008 Lagos High Court ruling that Sharia law is not the same as Customary Law. The SCSN is confident that its demand for Sharia courts will ultimately prevail, citing the constitutional provisions that recognize Sharia law as a legitimate legal system in Nigeria.
[Vanguard]
President Bola Tinubu says Nigerians must build a strong, united and indivisible country.
In a post on X on Saturday, Tinubu said while presenting the proposed 2025 budget of N49.7 trillion to the national assembly on December 18, he told the lawmakers that his administration is building a Nigeria “where peace reigns, opportunities abound, and every citizen can dream, work, and thrive in safety”.
The president said his ‘Budget of Restoration: Securing Peace, Rebuilding Prosperity’ is for the growth and progress of the country.
“We have to move forward, not as individuals but as one united nation, determined to rewrite our story for the generations to come,” Tinubu wrote.
During the presentation of the Appropriation Bill, last month, Tinubu said the proposed budget reinforces his administration’s roadmap to secure peace, prosperity, and hope for a greater future for Nigeria.
“The time for lamentation is over. This is a time to act. A time to support and promote greater investment in the private sector. A time for every Nigerian to look hopefully towards a brighter future because a new day has dawned for us as a nation,” the president said.
“Together, we have embarked on a journey of transformation and reform, and while the road has not been easy, the progress we have made is undeniable.”
On December 19, the appropriation bill scaled the second reading at the senate and house of representatives.
On January 6, heads of ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) began defending their budget estimates before the relevant committees of the national assembly.
The national assembly is expected to pass the budget by the end of January.
Darkoo, the Nigerian-British rapper, has accused Peter ‘Mr P’ Okoye of sabotaging her newly released song ‘Focus on Me’.
In a series of tweets on X, Darkoo said she had obtained the necessary clearance from Psquare for the sample used in her song.
The rapper said Psquare was entitled to 50% of the song’s earnings. She, however, alleged that Peter demanded to be featured on the track — a request she initially declined but considered for a possible remix.
Darkoo claimed Mr P thereafter facilitated the copyright infringement tagged on the music video on YouTube after she refused to feature him in the song.
“I wasn’t going to say anything, but Peter of P-square took down my music video for six days in an attempt to completely sabotage the song. (Fortunately, the video is back up now.) https://youtu.be/4wj0nhz_6t0?si=-75ujqiue4_z-ysl. Let me be clear: I had all the necessary clearance for the sample. This is not my first rodeo using a sample, as you know, and I did everything by the book,” the tweet reads.
“To put things into perspective, they are receiving 50%… rightfully so. Yet, Mr. Peter wanted to be featured on the song, even creating his own new verse for it. He told me not to speak to or clear with his brothers Jude and Paul (who, by the way, have been incredibly helpful in resolving issues). He claimed they would bring ‘unnecessary problems’ for me.
“But as soon as the song dropped, Mr. Peter completely switched on me. He started causing problems because he wanted to be featured on the track. Even though I wanted him to be on the remix, I guess that wasn’t enough. Instead, he chose to act out of anger, manipulate the situation, and try to sabotage the song… simply because I didn’t bow to his demands….
“Taking my video down wasn’t about copyright or contracts…. It was because he didn’t get what he wanted (to be featured), & I quote saying to my team that I “disrespected him” that’s why he’s taking down the video.”
The rapper expressed her disappointment and heartbreak over “Mr. P’s actions”, stating that she had grown up admiring him and his music.
“His actions have impacted me deeply, hurting my fans, ruining my hard work, and all the time and money spent. It’s heartbreaking because I grew up admiring him, and to see someone I once looked up to try to hurt me and block my success actively is incredibly painful,” she said.
“For the record: I had the clearance, the contracts, and the paperwork from “Psquare”. I went above and beyond to ensure their rights were respected and handled correctly with the right people. Ensuring that all contributors were coverd. This isn’t how our OGs are supposed to be moving. It’s sad and disappointing.”
Darkoo also revealed that the music video is now back online after being taken down for six days. She urged her fans to support her by watching and sharing the video.
Peter has yet respond to Darkoo’s allegations as of the time of this report.
[TheCable]
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Sam Adeyemi, senior pastor of Daystar Christian Centre, says President Bola Tinubu must give youths compelling pictures of what Nigeria will look like in the next 30 years.
Speaking on the topic ‘Leadership Shift: Redefining Influence’ on Saturday when he featured on Channels Television, Adeyemi said whatever a person sees consistently over time enters their heart and puts their life on autopilot.
When asked how that can be applied to the federal government’s proposed National Youth Confab, he said “Mr president needs to come with pictures, 3D of what Nigeria will be like in 30 years’ time”.
Tinubu had, in his nationwide broadcast on October 1, said he would set up a 30-Day National Youth Confab for youths in the country to discuss and address challenges confronting them.
Speaking further, Adeyemi said leaders must strive to change people’s belief systems to create sustainable change.
“No leader will create sustainable change if he or she cannot shift the mindset, and you cannot shift the people’s culture without shifting people’s belief and their mindset,” he said.
“I have an ex-governor who is a friend. I went to visit him whilst he was governor. And then he said, ‘Brother Sam, my biggest problem is not infrastructure’. They were celebrating two years in office then and he was celebrating over two years
“He said ‘when I want to do a job, I get the best contractor to do the job’. He said ‘my biggest problem is mindset’. He said ‘on my own cabinet, one of the members of the state executive came to tell me that they were having a conversation somewhere and they were saying: the governor will just be talking about vision. Will we eat vision?’
“He said ‘Can you imagine that the people on my cabinet – the state executive does not even understand vision? They don’t value vision; they are just looking for what they want to eat talk less of the citizens’.”
Adeyemi said the dynamics of leadership must change for the development of Nigeria.
He said many people’s New Year resolutions are already unraveling because there can’t be sustainable change until it is brought about from the subconscious to the conscious.
“You can’t kill a habit; you have to replace it with a new one — nature harbors a vacuum,” he said.
Two male factory workers have died after falling inside a diesel reservoir in the Ikosi area of Lagos state.
A statement by Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, permanent secretary of the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), said preliminary investigations revealed that “one of the men (an adult) accidentally fell into the diesel reservoir while working”.
He said the second worker, in an attempt to rescue this colleague, also fell into the reservoir.
Oke-Osanyintolu said both victims were rescued by officials of LASEMA and fire service who arrived at the scene.
“Both victims sustained severe conditions and were promptly transported” to the hospital by the Lagos State Ambulance Service (LASAMBUS) after receiving first aid, including cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR),” the statement reads.
Oke-Osanyintolu added that the victims later died at the medical facility despite all efforts to revive them.
Save for the intervention of Aviation Security (AVSEC) personnel and officials of Ibom Air, a female passenger would have been lynched by other angry passengers after her ‘unruly behaviour’ caused the cancellation of an Uyo-Abuja flight at the Obong Victor Attah International Airport in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, last Wednesday.
This was revealed by the spokesman of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Michael Achimugu, through a post on his X (formerly Twitter) handle on Saturday.
Achimugu said the unnamed female passenger’s action caused 89 other passengers on board to lose their valuable time, money, and opportunities with Ibom Air losing millions of naira in addition to ‘a serious scheduling conundrum’.
He narrated: “On Wednesday, 08/01/2025, an Ibom Air flight scheduled to depart Uyo for Abuja at 1730hrs was viciously disrupted by a single passenger’s unruly behaviour.
“Her actions (captured below by other irate passengers) ensured that 89 other passengers on board lost valuable time, money, and opportunities. She also caused Ibom Air millions of naira plus a serious scheduling conundrum.
“All passengers had been informed during check-in that, due to weight restrictions, some or all of their luggage MAY NOT arrive on the same flight. Passengers with luggage above 20kg signed indemnity forms in this regard, while those whose bags were in the region of 20kg were informed verbally that their bags would arrive on the next scheduled flight. They agreed, including this passenger.
“After boarding, she noticed that her bag was not among the luggage loaded into the bowels of the aircraft. She angrily stepped down from the aircraft and insisted that her bags be loaded. Otherwise, NOBODY was going to fly.
“Even the intervention of FAAN AVSEC and the pilot did not let her budge. The pilot offered to carry her checked in bag in the cabin, but the size did not fit.
“All the while, the pilot was taking note of the time because Uyo was a sunset airport, and the airspace would be shut down any moment.
“AVSEC then explained to the angry passenger that she would have to be deboarded if she refused to travel without the bag. She asked to be allowed to pick her handbag from the cabin, only to get in there and block the aisle, insisting that the flight would not depart without her bags.
“Among the 89 other passengers was an infant and a chef who was travelling to provide paid service to a big client in Abuja.
“Despite all pleas, she held the plane hostage until the airspace was closed. Consequently, the pilot had to announce a cancellation of the flight.
“It was at that moment that other passengers became irate. Had AVSEC and Ibom Air personnel led by Amaka Echetabu not been on top of their game, the unruly passenger would have been lynched.”
Achimugu saluted the timely intervention that saved the woman’s life, noting that the airline had to provide immediate refreshment, transportation for passengers who were resident in Uyo, and hotel accommodation for those who came from out of town at great and avoidable cost.
“This means that the airline would have catered twice for the same flight.
“Added to this was the fact that a scheduling challenge has now been created automatically, one that will take days to normalize. For an industry where profit margins are extremely thin, this was very avoidable,” the NCAA director of public affairs and consumer protection added.
The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has clarified that recent disruptions in power supply were due to the tripping of the Benin-Omotosho line, contrary to reports that the national grid collapsed.
Earlier, it was widely reported that the national grid had collapsed on Saturday.
TCN spokesperson Ndidi Mbah, however, said the report was a misinformation.
“The TCN hereby states that the nation’s grid did not experience any collapse today, contrary to the widely published misinformation in the media.
“Earlier today, at about 13:41 Hrs, the Osogbo-Ihovour line tripped, followed by the tripping of the Benin-Omotosho line. These consequently affected bulk supply to only the Lagos axis alone,” TCN spokesperson said.
Mbah also clarified that at about 13:00pm, just before the tripping, total generation on the grid was 4,335.63MW, however, after the trippings, generation was 2,573.23MW, showing clearly that the grid did not experience any glitch.
She noted that the transmission line tripping affected Egbin, Olorunsogo, Omotoso, Geregu, and Paras, but they have all been restored except for the Benin-Omotoso 330kV line, which restoration was ongoing.
“As TCN continues to work hard to put in place a robust transmission grid, in spite of prevailing challenges. It is imperative that we understand the negative impact of deliberately misinforming the public and the value of disseminating true and verifiable facts,” Mbah added.