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Former Governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, has again refuted claims of embezzling the state funds during his eight-year tenure.
Naija News recalls that the Kaduna State House of Assembly indicted El-Rufia’s administration for misappropriating over N423 billion.
The former governor and his allies have denied these allegations, claiming they are being witch-hunted by the Assembly and the state government.
While featuring on the Hausa program aired on Freedom Radio station in Kaduna on Tuesday morning, El-Rufai said he joined politics solely to serve the people, not to seek money or steal public funds.
He emphasized that he was content with what he had before becoming governor, yet was accused of financial misappropriation without any specific area.
El-Rufai stated that he was prepared to swear with the Quran whenever former state governors and current leaders swore that they never misappropriated public funds.
The ex-governor also noted that after his studies, he will return to politics by 2027 because there is no retirement in politics like government work, “We will return and continue with politics, God willing.”
He added, “I was quiet to see how things would turn out, but for me, I always ask God to help me in whatever I do in life because, as a human being, I always try not to do anything wrong or betray the people’s trust.
“I always say that whenever the former governors of Kaduna State and other leaders decide to take an oath swearing with the Quran that they never took people’s money, I’m also ready to swear. This is because I know that I didn’t go into public service to steal or take people’s money. I joined politics only to serve the people of Kaduna State; I didn’t come to look for money, because I give glory to God that I’m content with what I had even before becoming governor. Yet, we were accused of misappropriation of funds during our tenure without being given a specific area where the money went missing or who took it.
“Yet they are going after my allies by inviting them to the ICPC and EFCC with the intention of tarnishing their names. As for me, I had already prayed two Raka’at on Friday night, leaving everything to God, seeking His judgment. This is why I’m not saying much about the issue.
“But it’s surprising and painful what is happening; such is life. What I would like to say here is that whatever evil plans, witch-hunts, and lies against us should continue because we have reported the issue to God, and God willing, we will get justice from Him.
“If you report something to God, you must desist from making comments. Although I have ordered my lawyers to sue in court against attempts to tarnish my name, that will continue. But presently, I’m doing fine by going about my normal activities such as reading and writing.
“You can still continue working for the people even after government, and that is what we are doing right now. We are still working alongside those who cherish serving the people, not those who enter politics or governance to siphon public funds to add to their wealth. That is not our intention. God knows that, and the people with positive minds know that too. May God bring development to our people.”
The Shepherd Superintendent of the Household of God Church, Lagos, Rev Chris Okotie, has urged Nigerians to use the occasion of the nation's 64th Independence Anniversary to reinforce their faith in God's sure promises.
In a press release circulated in Lagos yesterday by Rev Okotie's media adviser, Ladi Ayodeji, the cleric, who quoted profusely from the Bible in his main text on the story of Abraham, urged Nigerians to be hopeful always for better days as God does not abandon his people.
Below is the summary of his goodwill message:
"These are perilous times.
"Our faith in God must become the Gyrostat which keeps us afloat as we navigate the tempestuous waters of our convoluted reality. Nigeria is a client Nation for God. Nigeria has a prophetic destiny.
Therefore the sovereign superintendence of Almighty God is assured.
"Nigeria is strong. Nigeria will survive.
So Hope on. Hope ever.
Hope on. Hope ever!"
Rev Okotie has always said that Nigeria enjoys a special bond with God, and the country's trajectory should not bother the Nigerian people.
The Comptroller-General of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) Mr Haliru Nabana have said that Mr Idris Okuneye, a cross dresser popularly known as Bobrisky, served his jail term in correctional facility in Lagos state.
Nababa stated this while addressing the House of Representatives Committee investigating alleged bribery and misconduct against the NCS and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Abuja on Monday.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that Bobrisky was convicted for mutilating the naira and was sentenced to six months in jail.
NAN recalls that Mr Vincent Otse, social media influencer and human rights activist known as Very Dark Man (VDM) published an audio recording which captured Bobrisky allegedly saying that he spent his jail term in a private apartment.
The audio also captured Bobrisky allegedly saying that he paid N15 million to EFCC officials to drop charges of money laundering against him.
Nanaba, however, explained to the committee that Bobrisky was convicted and was incarcerated from April 12 to August 13, 2024 in the facility.
He said that there was no time when Bobrisky was allowed outside the correctional facility saying that there are records of his activities in jail to show that he was in the facility.
He, however, said that as a result of special features such as mammary gland and curvy hips which portrays Bobrisky like a women, he kept in a private cell away from other inmates.
According to him, this is inline with international best practices as it is to protect his human right and to protect him against violation by other inmates.
NaAbba also said that for security reasons, Bobrisky was at a point, moved from Medium Security Custodian Centre to Maximum Security Custodian Centre all within the correctional facility.
In his remarks, the Executive Chairman of EFCC, Mr Olanipekun Olukoyede said that no money was received to drop charges against Bobrisky.
Represented by his Chief of Staff, Mr Michael Nzekwe, Olukoyede said that in April, 2024, Bobrisky while undergoing investigation, in his extra-judicial statement made a confession.
He said that Bobrisky was alleged to have failed to submit to Special Control Unit against Money Laundering (SCUML) a declaration of its activities of his firm, Bob Express.
According to Olukoyede, this is contrary to Section 6(1) of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022
“Notwithstanding the unequivocal confession of the now ex-convict admitting the essential ingredients, the prosecution in total fidelity and candor to its oath and strict adherence to professional practice of not only disclosing exculpatory documents to the defense.
“We received a report of the investigation activities from SCUML which showed that Bob Express is not a Designated Non-Financial Business and Profession (DNFBP),
“We then decided to drop the charge in the interest of justice and fair hearing, without any inducement or prompting of any sort from the defense, and in line with the mandate of the Special Task Force against Naira abuse,” he said.
Earlier, VDM told the committee that he has more evidence yet to be released to the public saying that he would continue to fight corruption.
He said that while other Nigerians are in jail for offenses committed, Bobrisky should not be given any form of special treatment.
“Nigeria is not for the godfathers, I will not allow corruption, if I see a secret about you, I will tell, I am being very honest, I will not fear anybody because Nigeria is going down.
“I will implore you people to do the right thing because the judiciary system is been messed up so bad, you people have to to save your face,” he said.
He, however, tendered some part of the evidence to the committee and promise to release more as the investigation progresses.
He told the committee to ensure Bobrisky appears before it and not to tolerate any further disrespect from him.
In his ruling, the Chairman of the Committee, Rep. Ginger Onwusibe (LP-Abia) said that Bobrisky must appear in person in their next hearing.
He demanded video footage of the activities of Bobrisky through out his terms in the correctional facility.
The chairman said that the accounts provided by VDM into which the allayed money for bribe was paid into will be investigated.
The hearing was then adjourned to a further date to announced.
NAN reports that Bobrisky was absent at the hearing and his counsel who came to represent him was not recognised to speak as he had no letter or approval to speak on his behalf.
(NAN)
The Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, has urged Nigerians to hold steadfast to the belief in the assured prosperous future of the country.
Obaseki who stated this in a statement in commemoration of the 64th Independence Day, said this is realisable even as we all individually and collectively play our part in realising the noble vision of our founding fathers.
He said, “My dear good people of Edo State, I join you in marking Nigeria’s 64th Independence Day celebration, as we journey together on the path of building a strong, virile and prosperous nation.
“This is another day to celebrate our shared experience as compatriots of the world’s largest black nation, which has over time defied all odds in reinventing itself and showcasing the indomitable spirit of its various peoples.
“As a nation, we have grown stronger, are more united and have trudged together to overcome threats to our nation. Today, at 64, we have much to be thankful for, in the face of daunting global headwinds that have rocked many nations. It is imperative to restate our commitment to democracy even in the face of pressures from different interests that seek to set us back.
“As we celebrate Nigeria’s Independence Day today, I urge you all to hold steadfast to the belief in the assured prosperous future of our great State and the Nigerian nation even as we all individually and collectively play our part in realizing the noble vision of our founding fathers.”
[Punch]
President Bola Tinubu addressed the nation to mark its 64th Independence Anniversary on October 1.
Here, Vanguard highlights ten (10) key points from the President’s speech:
Economic Reforms: Tinubu acknowledged the economic difficulties, including rising living costs and unemployment. He urged Nigerians to remain patient, assuring them that reforms are beginning to yield positive results. “I want to assure you that your voices are heard… we are beginning to see light at the end of the tunnel.”
Security Achievements: The President announced progress in the fight against terrorism and banditry, stating that over 300 Boko Haram and bandit commanders have been eliminated. “Our administration is winning the war on terror and banditry… we have restored peace to hundreds of communities.”
Return of Displaced Persons: Tinubu shared that many Nigerians in conflict zones are returning to their homes. “Thousands of our people have been able to return home… our security agencies are committed to ending this as quickly as possible.”
Natural Disasters Response: In response to recent flooding, the President announced the creation of a Disaster Relief Fund and integrity tests for dams. “This federal government will always stand with our people in their times of trouble.”
Foreign Investments: Nigeria attracted over $30 billion in foreign direct investments within the past year. “Thanks to the reforms, our country attracted foreign direct investments worth more than $30 billion.”
Agriculture and Food Security: Tinubu emphasised the importance of mechanised farming and highlighted the establishment of a tractor assembly plant to boost food production and reduce costs. “We expect to see a leap in food production and a downward spiral in food costs.”
Energy Transition: The President confirmed the expansion of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) usage in mass transit to lower transportation costs. “Our energy transition programme is on course… to provide cheaper public transportation.”
Youth Empowerment: Tinubu announced a National Youth Conference and several youth-centred initiatives, including the 3 Million Technical Talents programme and the Nigerian Education Loan Fund. “This conference will empower our young people to participate actively in nation-building.”
Fiscal Responsibility: The administration has reduced Nigeria’s debt service ratio and paid off significant inherited debts, maintaining stable foreign reserves. “We have reduced the debt service ratio from 97 per cent to 68 per cent.”
Unity and Resilience: Tinubu urged Nigerians to remain hopeful and united in the face of challenges. “We are Nigerians—resilient and tenacious. We always prevail and rise above our circumstances.”
[Vanguard]
Reveals Fastest Growing Political Party
The presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) in the 2023 election, Rabiu Kwankwaso, has declared his party as the fastest-growing political party in Nigeria.
The national leader of the NNPP disclosed this in Abuja on Monday during the Party National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting, emphasizing the numerous challenges they had faced.
He expressed confidence in the NNPP’s upward trajectory, thanking supporters for their commitment as the party positions itself as a viable alternative in Nigeria’s political landscape.
Kwankwaso also stated that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is ‘dead’ and has many concerns within the party.
He also criticized the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), highlighting a disconnect between its leadership and the realities facing Nigerians, including rising insecurity, poverty, and hunger.
He said, “I’m pleased to say that, despite all the challenges, today our party is the fastest-growing party in this country. I remember when I visited Katsina State to open our state office; there I mentioned that the two parties, especially the PDP, were dead, and there are so many concerns within the fold of the PDP.
“I’m sure when I was making that statement, many of them did not see what was happening today, that the party was being made into pieces. The party is imploding, and therefore if they didn’t understand at that time, now I believe they will agree with all of us that the party is dead.
“The APC, as it stands today, you can see that the leadership is just up there in the air, and the entire nation, the people of this country, are on the ground.
“At that level, whether they believe they are doing well, all of us, especially the voters in this country, believe that they are performing very, very badly, especially if you look at the issue of security, the level of poverty in this country, and of course the issue of hunger that we are witnessing in this country.”
The Deputy Controller of the Maximum Correctional Center, Kirikiri, Lagos, Michael Anugwa, has admitted that crossdresser, Idris Okuneye aka Bobrisky, was placed in a separate cell.
Recall that Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, had in a video alleged that Bobrisky who was convicted of a crime and sentenced to six months in jail was given an apartment outside the custodial centre.
Reacting to the claim on Monday, Anugwa while addressing members of the House of Representatives Joint Committee on Financial Crimes and Reformatory Institutions, insisted that Bobrisky was not at any point held in a facility outside the correctional center.
His words: “Bobrisky was admitted on the 13th of April with a valid warrant and a transfer order from Ikoyi Correctional facility.
“The warrant was given to me the same day of his conviction. The biometric was taken the next day because when he came was around 10:30 p.m. So it was done on the 13th of April 2024.
“Idris spent 10 days at the Medium Correctional Center and was moved to maximum, because he refused to eat the prison food.
“He then applied for self-feeding which was approved and Bobrisky nominated two persons to bring his food to the facility — Ogunleye Abiola and Moji Ogunleye.
“During the admission, we discovered that Idris, though a man, had special features like breasts that would not allow us put him in the general cell.
“We agreed to put him in a separate cell. While he was there he had a total of 39 visitors.”
A father, Samson, in Evwreni Community of Delta State, who smashed his son to death, killed a nursing mother and injured others in inexplicable circumstances, was apprehended by the agitated mob, who beat him to death, setting his corpse on fire in an act of jungle justice.
Samson, whose other name could not be ascertained at press time, committed the outrageous act in the wee hours of yesterday.
A source said that Samson about 2a.m., yesterday smashed his son to death and in the course of sympathizing, killed a nursing mother identified as Princess and injured a yet-to-be-identified male.
A source who craved anonymity revealed that Samson had been behaving strangely and that he was to be taken to a medical centre for medications before the unfortunate incident occurred.
According to him, “He smashed his toddler son, then machete a woman who took her son out to toilet to death, and injured the youths in process of trying to apprehend him, he injured more persons.
“After the incident, he was finally apprehended, beaten to a stupor and his remains were set ablaze with his motorcycle.”
Though the Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, Edafe Bright could not respond to his call at press time, but a senior security source, who confirmed the incident, said: “Before our men could get to the scene, the suspect has been set ablaze.”
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has denied receiving a bribe to drop the money laundering charge against controversial crossdresser, Idris Okuneye, better known as Bobrisky.
The EFCC, on Monday, explained that the allegations of money laundering were dropped based on Bobrisky’s confessional statement on naira abuse in court and the disclosure of the Special Control Unit against Money Laundering, SCUML, that Okunenye’s firm, Bob Express, was not a Designated Non Financial Institution, Business and Profession, DNFIBP, and could not be prosecuted for flouting provisions of the Money Laundering Prevention & Prohibition Act, 2022.
The representative of the anti-graf agency, Bilikisu Bala, head of the prosecution team that handled the trial of Bobrisky, who made the clarification during an appearance before the House of Representatives investigative committee probing the alleged case of ₦15 million bribery involving Bobrisky and the EFCC, added that it is well within the powers of the agency to amend charges.
Bala denied any insinuation that the EFCC or any of its operatives received a bribe to drop the charges against Bobrisky.
“We initially raised six count charges bordering on Naira Abuse and Money Laundering against Okuneye based on his confessional statement that his firm, Bob Express, was not registered with SCUML and was not rendering returns to it. Counts 1-4 were on Naira Abuse while counts five and six were on money laundering. Okuneye’s confession that he didn’t register his firm, Bob Express with SCUML and not rendering returns to it informed the money laundering charges initially included in the six count charges. However, when we wrote to SCUML on the status of the firm, the Unit responded that it was not a Designated Non-Financial Institution, Business and Profession, DNFIBP. We cannot lawfully sustain the charges in all sincerity. We, therefore dropped them and relied on the four counts on Naira mutilation to which Okuneye had pleaded guilty”, she said.
The prosecutor dismissed claims of financial inducement in dropping charges maintaining that no such thing happened.
“There is simply no basis for that. The Administration of Criminal Justice Act, ACJA, allows amendment of charges. It is a professional practice. It is laughable for anyone to attribute our decision to monetary issues. Why did we write to SCUML if we didn’t want to include the charges? We wrote to be lawfully guided and when the Unit responded that the firm had not breached any law, on what basis should we have retained the money laundering charges?,” she said.
The Chairman of the Committee, Ginger Onwusibe, however, said that at the next meeting, the person who did the audio recording on the alleged bribery should appear before the committee while the meeting was adjourned sine die.
Meanwhile, the lawyer to Bobrisky, Avwerosuoghene Omuvwie, told the investigative committee that his client couldn’t appear physically due to health issues.
The Indigenous People of Biafra has banned the celebration of Nigeria’s 64th Independence Day in the South-East region.
In a statement on Monday, the separatist group declared that anyone found participating in any activity marking this year’s Independence Day would be considered an enemy of the land.
It said Igbo should go about their normal business or remain in their houses if they choose to but must refrain from any form of activities to mark Nigeria’s independence.
The group insisted that though Igbo were part of the struggle for Nigeria’s independence, the union had proven injurious to them.
“The Directorate of State of the global family and movement of the Indigenous People of Biafra wishes to remind Biafrans at home and in the diaspora that the ban on the celebration of the Zoo Nigeria’s annual October 1st Independence Day by Biafrans is still in force. As a Biafran, you are to avoid any Nigeria Independence celebration globally.
“IPOB calls on Biafrans worldwide to go about their normal business because we are not part of Nigeria and have nothing to do with their British-flag independence of 1960. We are aware that some prominent Igbo men and women played pivotal roles in securing the flag independence that Nigeria celebrates annually on every October 1st; however, such independence has taken more blood of Ndigbo to maintain than that of any other ethnic group in Nigeria.
“Biafrans have decided to reject the bloody flag independence of Nigeria and work for the restoration of a truly united and prosperous independent State of Biafra. Therefore, every Biafran should reject this Nigerian forced unity as we look forward to celebrating Biafra’s independence soon.
“Ndigbo must adhere to this clarion call to halt every activity concerning Nigeria’s Independence tomorrow. There shall be no flying of Nigerian flags in Biafran territory. There shall be no independence activity for students in Biafraland. Everyone should go about their business or use that day for quality family time and rest at home for those who choose not to go to work or engage in business activities.
“IPOB is not joking about the restoration of Biafra’s freedom and sovereignty. Do not make yourself an enemy of the struggle by participating in Nigeria’s flag independence celebrations tomorrow. Parents and guardians must not allow their children to attend any Nigerian independence activities tomorrow. We are monitoring everywhere in Biafraland. As an Igbo parent, do not allow your children to be sacrificed for a country that considers them less than human.”
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Vitalik Buterin, the co-founder of Ethereum and one of the largest holders of the asset has for some time now been suspected to be secretly dumping Ethereum assets.
Series of On chain transitions by Wallets generally believed to be linked to Buterin have fueled these suspicions although the Ethereum Co-Founder has repeatedly said that he has never seemed to profit off Ethereum.
Vitalik Buterin has earlier said that he has not sold ETH for personal profits since 2018 and these recent flurries of transactions are either for the Ethereum ecosystem or to fund philanthropic causes.
On Sept. 30, Spot on Chain an onchain analytics tracker reported a transfer of 649 ETH ($1.72 million to cryptic exchange Paxos.
The transaction marked the end of a series of sales by the Wallet in question which was funded by Vitalik Buterin
The Wallet which can be Identified by “0x556,” received 1,300 ETH ($3.21 million) on Sept. 19 from “0xd04”, an Ethereum wallet said to be controlled by Vitalik Buterin. This “0xd04” wallet was funded by Vitalik in 2022 when he transferred 70,000 ETH.
The exchange of transactions between these two wallets didn’t start today. According to on-chain data, “0xd04” had previously sent 2,000 ETH, then valued at $5.265 million on September 2023. This transfer was preceded by a transfer of 999 ETH valued at $2.63 million the same month.
Meanwhile, another transfer of 1701 ETH valued at $4.47 million was made the month before, bringing the total ether received to date to 5,999 ETH.
Sell Pressure Fears
The speculations on whether Vitalik Buterin is secretly dumping Ethereum all point to the potential effect on the asset if that is true. The selling pressure that could hit the asset should the allegations be confirmed can drive down the price of the asset seriously.
The concerns intensified earlier this month as another wallet which received 3,800 ETH from Buterin in August, was seen offloading the funds across multiple transfers.
However, Vitalik Buterin clarified the transaction saying that they were carried out by a Bio defense group he funds.
What to Know
- Besides the speculation on Vitalik Buterin dumping Ethereum, he is also heavily criticized for having too much control over the asset. His grip on the assets has been likened to a dictatorship given how he personally drives the policy direction of the asset.
- Ethererm is currently exchanging hands for $2,606 down by 46.6% from its all-time high. The asset has performed the worst among the top 5 biggest assets in the crypto industry.
[Nairametrics]
President Bola Tinubu has vowed that his administration will uphold the judiciary’s independence and sanctity.
Speaking at the swearing-in ceremony of Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun as the 23rd Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Tinubu said his government would be mindful of the line demarcating the executive and the judiciary.
He said his administration would not interfere in the matters of the other organs of government.
The event held at the Council Chamber of the Presidential Villa, Abuja, on Monday.
“The judiciary is an important pillar constituting the tripod that holds our constitutional democracy. Indeed, the Nigerian judiciary, at various times in history, has proven to be the moderating force ensuring everyone remains in check.
“Your role as the last hope of the common man serves to sustain our people’s confidence in democracy, knowing well that there is an important arbiter that can always give them redress if they are wronged.
“For this function, it is important that our judiciary remains truly independent. It is my administration’s total commitment to preserve the sanctity of the judiciary.
“While we may have reasons to interface as complementing components of the same government, under my watch, the government will also be mindful of the clear line demarcating the two of us.
“We will never interfere or abuse the relationship between us as separate organs of government in our democracy. This is important for sustaining our constitutional democracy.”
He urged Justice Kekere-Ekun to continue upholding the principles of ethical leadership, fearlessness, and honesty which he said defined the CJN’s career.
Tinubu added: “The Nigerian judiciary needs a leader with these qualities at this time, and I have no doubt that you will set the pace for others to follow.
“This day has also cemented the judiciary as a self-evolving and progressive institution. I specifically congratulate the Nigerian women. Any girl child can dream big and have her dreams come true. It is worth celebrating.”
Justice Kekere-Ekun is the second female CJN in Nigeria’s history.
[DailyTrust]
The U.S. Department of State – Bureau of Consular Affairs has released the list of countries with highest U.S. visa rejection rates.
The list shows that Nigeria has 29% rejection rate, while North Korea and Micronesia have 100% rejection rate respectively.
While countries like Monaco and Liechtenstein boast of 0% rejection rate, Israel, UAE and Saudi Arabia have 3%, 4% and 5% respectively.
The list places Nigeria in the upper tier of nations with significant challenges in obtaining U.S. visas, alongside countries like Ukraine (34%), Russia (39%), and Pakistan (41%).
For Nigerian applicants, the 29% rejection rate indicates that nearly one in three visa requests is turned down, reflecting the difficulties faced by many Nigerians seeking entry into the United States for business, tourism, or educational purposes.
Other countries with higher rejection rates include Canada (52%), Liberia (78%), and North Korea, which, alongside Micronesia, faces a 100% rejection rate.
Here is a list of countries with highest U.S. visa rejection rate
1. Monaco: 0%
2. Liechtenstein: 0%
3. Israel: 3%
4. UAE: 4%
5. Saudi Arabia: 5%
6. Japan: 6%
7. Czechia: 8%
8. Argentina: 8%
9. France: 10%
10. Mexico: 10%
11. Italy: 10%
12. Denmark: 10%
13. Germany: 11%
14. Indonesia: 11%
15. India: 11%
16. Brazil: 12%
17. Vatican: 14%
’18. South Korea: 14%
19. UK: 15%
20. Spain: 16%
21. South Africa: 16%
22. Australia: 17%
23,. Norway: 18%
24. Ireland: 19%
25. Turkey: 21%
26. Sweden: 21%
27. Finland: 23%
28. Egypt: 26%
29. China: 27%
30. Nigeria: 29%
31. Ukraine: 34%
32. Iraq: 37%
33. Russia: 39%
34. Pakistan: 41%
35. Afghanistan: 49%
36. Canada: 52%
37. Iran: 53%
38. Liberia: 78%
39. North Korea: 100%
40. Micronesia: 100%
[TheNation]
The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has directed the implementation of enhanced security measures nationwide to ensure a safe and conducive atmosphere for the 64th Independence anniversary.
The IG also ordered the deployment of adequate human and tactical resources to ensure maximum security for the celebration.
The Force Spokesperson, Muyiwa Adejobi, stated on Monday that the police, in synergy with other security agencies, would fortify various designated event venues and major highways across the country to forestall any threats to lives, property, and the celebration.
The statement, titled, “IG orders water-tight security felicitates with Nigerians on 64th anniversary, orders clampdown on miscreants,” read, “As we celebrate our nation’s 64th Independence, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has ordered water-tight security across the country to create a safe and conducive environment for citizens of our great nation to celebrate this landmark occasion.
“As part of the IGP’s comprehensive plan to ensure a seamless celebration, the IGP has ordered the deployment of adequate human and tactical resources to enable a maximum level of security for the independence celebration.
“The police, in synergy with other security agencies, will fortify various designated event venues and the major highways across the country, to forestall any threats to lives and property and the celebration.”
Egbetokun also urged police officers deployed for various operations to be professional in their conduct.
The statement continued, “Additionally, the IGP has directed all personnel deployed for various operations during the celebrations to be courteous and firm in their engagements with members of the public.”
“The Inspector-General of Police also felicitates with Nigerians as we commemorate our independence anniversary, noting that Nigerians are urged to reflect on the journey, triumphs and challenges that have shaped our nation, honouring the sacrifices of our founding fathers and the generations that have contributed to our nation’s growth, unity and progress.
“IGP Egbetokun reiterates that the Nigeria Police Force remains committed to safeguarding our nation’s security, ensuring peaceful coexistence, and upholding the rule of law. We are dedicated to serving our communities with integrity, compassion, and professionalism. As we move forward, let us rekindle our sense of national pride, foster unity, and work together towards a brighter future for all Nigerians.”
[Punch]