One year after the mysterious death of rapper Ilerioluwa Aloba, better known as MohBad, head of the Aloba family’s legal team, Taiwo Odumosu, has shared the difficulties in securing pathologists for the case.
Odumosu revealed in an interview with The Punch that the investigation is proceeding through various channels, including a second autopsy and toxicology test, as directed by the court.
According to Odumosu, forensic experts have sent the specimen abroad for analysis, opting for a European lab rather than the USA due to the controversies surrounding the initial autopsy.
The court is also expected to rule on objections raised by Wunmi regarding the DNA test on October 18.
“Presently, we are approaching the issue from different angles. The second autopsy and toxicology test is being conducted as directed by the court. We hope this will shed more light on the circumstances leading to the death of MohBad. Presently, the specimen has been taken abroad by forensic experts for the toxicology examination.
“Given the controversy generated by the first autopsy, the forensic experts in their professional estimation believed the laboratory in Europe would be better. So they avoided the USA altogether. The DNA test too. Wunmi brought preliminary objection on some flimsy grounds. We have argued the objections and the ruling is reserved by the court for October 18,” Odumosu revealed.
Securing pathologists has proven challenging as Odumosu disclosed that attempts to engage four different experts from locations such as Kaduna and Maiduguri were unsuccessful, as they declined due to the influence of powerful figures involved in the case.
Odumosu said, “Getting pathologists to attend to the matter was a bit tough. We got in touch with four pathologists: one from Kaduna, another from Maiduguri and one other place but they said powerful individuals were interested in the matter and declined to take it on.
“We also consulted those in America. However, because of the controversy trailing the first autopsy, we decided to boycott America altogether. For those who agreed to help us now, we thank them. The way to justice is always strewn with thorns. But we have the firm belief we shall get there.”
Odumosu noted that the decision to enlist a forensic pathologist from the northern region was driven by concerns over potential compromises in the process.
“We don’t want anybody to compromise the process. We suspected that the delay of transferring the previous specimen to America took a long time. We also suspected government intervention and institutional laxity on the part of the police, so we decided to look elsewhere to do what we wanted. But we eventually got somebody,” he added.
Speaking on the key challenges the legal team has faced in seeking justice for Mohbad’s family, Odumosu said, “The biggest challenge we have had so far is from the Nigerian Police. Apart from the shoddy investigation that is clear even to the novice, they have refused to cooperate with us on certain levels.
“It is an open secret that the court granted the Aloba family an order to conduct another autopsy and toxicology test after the government-assisted toxicology test led to inconclusiveness. We sent a letter to the police informing them of the order of the court and the need for them to release documents and exhibits to the forensic experts.
“They didn’t acknowledge nor release the documents to the forensic pathologists. We sent a reminder to them and still, they ignored it. This sort of attitude does not commend the police to the populace.”
A Nigerian working as a nurse in the United Kingdom, Ruth Auta, has been sentenced to three years in prison for neglecting her 10-week-old baby, Joshua Akerele, who died while she was at work.
The 28-year-old single mother had reportedly left Joshua alone in her nurse’s accommodation for eight hours on December 20, 2022, to complete her shift, according to a Daily Mail report.
On returning, she discovered her son lifeless in his cot and immediately called 999, reporting that he was not breathing.
The infant died an hour after the ambulance arrived despite resuscitation efforts. Tests revealed that he might have overheated due to excessive layers of clothing and bedding.
The report further claimed that Auta, who worked at the Royal Bolton Hospital, was charged with cruelty to a child.
She pleaded guilty at Manchester Magistrates’ Court on May 24, 2024, while her sentencing was delayed by a month.
On June 6, while attempting to board a flight to Nigeria, she was apprehended at Gatwick Airport with a one-way ticket.
She had told the police she had collected Joshua from a childminder, fed him, and then fell asleep with him on her bed. She claimed she found him unresponsive upon waking.
However, CCTV footage and incriminating text messages contradicted her story.
The footage showed Auta leaving and returning to her accommodation without Joshua, and texts revealed she had instructed her childminder to falsely state she was caring for Joshua that day.
The childminder later confirmed she had not seen the baby for several days.
Giving her judgement, District Crown Prosecutor for CPS North West Sara Davie, stated, “Ruth Auta failed to provide the care her baby needed and chose to leave him alone.
“As a nurse, she should have been aware of the dangers of leaving her child unattended. Her attempts to evade justice further demonstrate her lack of remorse.”
Armed bandits have obstructed the busy Gusau–Funtua highway, kidnapping an unspecified number of travellers.
According to Channels Television, Yusuf Tsafe, a commuter stranded in the area, said that the bandits set up a roadblock at the Tazame axis early on Thursday.
Armed with about 50 motorcycles, each carrying three people, the bandits abducted several travellers and remained on the road for hours.
Tsafe described how the bandits began their operation around 7 am and continued until at least 9 am.
Despite military efforts to address the situation, the road remains blocked, and no vehicles have been allowed to pass. Another commuter confirmed that the Magazu–Kucheri Road, which links Gusau to Funtua, has also been blocked by the bandits.
“They entered the road around 7 am, and till around 9am, they were still there, we just parked by the roadside waiting for the military to clear the road, we are seeing the bandits taking people inside the bush.
“The military guntruck moved to the area earlier, we were just hearing gunshots, but they are yet to open the road. Till now, no vehicle has been allowed to pass.”
Another commuter also confirmed to Channels Television that Magazu – Kucheri Road, which is also the road linking Gusau to Funtua, have been blocked by bandits this morning
“The military men asked us to stop because the bandits blocked the road, we are still waiting for them to clear the road,” the source said.
Meanwhile, the spokesperson for the Zamfara State Police Command, ASP Yazid Abubakar, stated that additional troops, including operatives from the Nigerian Police Mobile Squad, have been deployed to clear the road.
Zamfara State, along with other regions in northwestern and central Nigeria, has been plagued by armed gangs carrying out mass abductions for ransom and engaging in widespread looting and destruction.
The people of Moriki town in the Zurmi Local Government Area of the state are in fear as the deadline given to them by notorious bandit kingpin, Bello Turji, to pay an imposed N30m levy expired, PUNCH Online earlier reported.
But reacting to the development, the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, described the bandit kingpin as a deranged person, wowing that the military would soon capture him.
No fewer than three persons lost their lives in April when bandits invaded a market in Tsafe town.
In May 2024, bandits attacked no fewer than 50 communities in the Zurmi Local Government Area of the state.
Nigerian comedienne Anita Afoke Asuoha, popularly known as Real Warri Pikin, has shared how a motivational speaker nearly drove her to attempt suicide.
She made this revelation in a post on her Instagram page, on Wednesday, in recognition of World Suicide Prevention Day.
The comedienne revealed that in 2018 her husband fell into debt after being persuaded by a motivational speaker to explore various business ventures in the quest for financial success.
Her husband, motivated by the advice, tried his hand at several businesses in hopes of achieving financial success, but instead, they found themselves in debt amounting to ₦22 million.
Asuoha shared the emotional story as part of her commemoration of World Suicide Prevention Day. She revealed that, feeling overwhelmed by the financial burden, she attempted suicide in June 2018.
“I tried suicide so you don’t have to, in 2018, June 6, 3 pm to be precise, I attempted suicide, I gave up on life because the burden was too much.
“Life just dey hit me left right and center, life dey turn me round like barber chair. And I felt like the only way to escape is to end the pain,” she said in a video clip shared on her Instagram page.
In a video posted alongside her message, the comedienne disclosed that a family member arrived just in time to prevent her from ending her life.
She urged her followers not to see suicide as an option, no matter how tough life may seem, reminding them that life is made up of seasons and phases.
“Suicide is making a permanent decision to a temporary problem. And most of all, hold on to God and do the one your power reach,” the comedienne said.
“I Still Don’t Know How I’ve Survived Without You’ – Mohbad’s Widow, Wunmi, Pens Heartfelt Tribute
AFOLABI
Wunmi, the widow of late Nigerian singer Ilerioluwa Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad, has shared an emotional tribute on social media to mark the one-year anniversary of his death.
In her heartfelt message on Instagram, Wunmi expressed how deeply she and their son, Liam, have missed Mohbad since his passing.
She reflected on the plans they had together and prayed for his soul to find peace, asking God to forgive his shortcomings.
In the lengthy tribute, she wrote: “llerioluwa mi, Husband of my youth, my best friend! It’s been a year today-a year since you left me and our Liam in this cold world. It’s been so hard. I miss you so much. Liam misses you too. I wish you were here to see him; you would have been an incredible father.
“I still don’t know how I’ve survived without you. God, I wish you were here every single day-every millisecond of the day. Your passing brought me unbearable pain, but it has also shaped me. I’ve learned so much, and I’m still learning. I’ll never be okay with you not being here; it messes with my head.
“I keep thinking it’s a nightmare I’ll wake up from, but 366 days have passed, and I haven’t. Oko mi, we had so many plans together, and you had so much more to give to this world. It hurts deeply to know that all our dreams, everything you worked so hard for, are now gone with you.
“I want you to know that Liam and I are holding on to the strength and love you gave us. Every day, I see pieces of you in him-your kindness, your smile, your spirit. I promise to raise him with the same love and care you would have given him, keeping your memory alive in every step of his life.
“But today, I choose to celebrate you. Today, I choose to honor your legacy. Today, I choose to give all glory to God for blessing me with you, llerioluwa. Today, I choose to be grateful for the gift of Liam-the beauty for our ashes.
“My love, I pray for your soul today. I ask that God forgives you of all your shortcomings and welcomes you to rest at His right hand. I hope it’s always a celebration up there for you. I love you so much. Thank you for Liam-I’m forever grateful for the gift of him! Fly high with the angels, love of my life.”
Her emotional message touched many fans and followers, who offered their support in the comments, as they remembered Mohbad on this solemn occasion.
Samson Siasia, a former Super Eagles head coach, says he believes the team is currently lacking a creative midfielder.
Siasia said the Super Eagles need a playmaker in the mould of former captain of the side, Austine Jay Jay Okocha to be a world-beater.
Nigeria is yet to find a suitable replacement for Okocha since the former Bolton Wanderers star quit international football in 2006.
Former Chelsea midfielder John Mikel Obi was expected to take up the role but failed to live up to expectations.
Fulham star, Alex Iwobi has been used in the number 10 role in recent years but Siasia claimed he is not good enough to play the position.
“We don’t have an offensive midfield player that can give the last pass to the strikers. We have great strikers, but we need someone that is missing,” Siasia told Lagos Talks.
“Iwobi can not play that position. He’s a good player, but he’s not doing as much as he’s supposed to as an offensive player. We have to look for that person in the centre of the field, who can give the last passes and score goals.
“In the defence and other parts, right and left midfield, we are good. We need someone like Jay-Jay Okocha, but it has to be somebody that can score more than him.”
Amid ongoing pricing and supply crises in the downstream sector of the Nigerian oil industry, the International Monetary Fund, IMF, has tasked the Federal Government to prioritize building and accelerating a social safety net that protects vulnerable citizens.
But taking this position in an interview with Arise TV yesterday, the Resident Representative of the IMF in Nigeria, Dr. Christian Ebeke, also hinted that petrol is still selling below market price, indicating the possibility of a further upward price movement.
Recall that the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, NNPCL, has also taken a similar position.
The IMF executive expressed worry that Nigerians are going through significant hardship due to policies being implemented by the present Federal Government.
Ebeke stated: “I think this upward adjustment of petrol price at the pump comes at a time Nigerians are already feeling significant hardship.
“There is a lot of pain for Nigerians coming from multiple shocks, compounded shocks, including high inflation, high food inflation. Now, the country is dealing with devastating floods, among others.
“So the upward adjustment to pump rice comes at that particular moment when the economy is also dealing with multiple shocks and Nigerians are feeling this pain.
“I would advise that as we clearly stated in our annual review of the Nigerian economy which we published in May and our advice is very clear.
“It is important to strengthen social protection in Nigeria. It is important to accelerate the mechanism and the disbursement of this support to the most vulnerable, so they can cope with this multiple shocks they are actually facing now.
“The programme the Federal Government has is reaching out to 15 million households, this is the way to go. This programme should be accelerated, cushioning the impact of the pump price policy on the most vulnerable is the immediate priority.
‘NNPC fuel prices are not market-reflective’
Supporting the earlier position of the NNPCL that the current pump prices of petrol were not yet market reflective, Ebeke said: “I think the starting point should be to ensure that there is enough supply stability of this product. The queues that we see at gas stations needs to be addressed.
“We also understand that for a long time, price at the pump has not been reflective of market conditions and this led to challenges to petrol supply and challenging situation also falls for NNPC.
“So our position again is while you are making these adjustments, it is very important to be mindful of the potential impact these have on the most vulnerable. Again, the narrative should really be about how to accelerate support to the most vulnerable, so they can cope with this type of shock.
“Now, if this upward adjustment brings enough supply in the market and have addressed fuel scarcity, this will be a very good development for many Nigerians because the scarcity is not really helping the productive capacity of the country and also with this situation, people normally don’t get a life”.
Dangote supply, distribution
Ebeke also expressed the view that the controversy surrounding the earlier claims that NNPCL would be the sole distributor of Dangote Refinery petroleum products was better resolved in favour of consumers if availability and competition were in place.
He stated: “Availability of supply, competition, those are principles that usually work in favour of consumers. They bring good product quality when you have competition, and when you have competition, you ensure that there will be stability of the supply in the market.
“Again, everything that works in favour of those principles is something we will welcome and the market should be a market where the two principles are clearly achieved.
“Stability in supply with competition will ensure that consumers can have the best deal and the best bargain.”
Reacting to the position of the Federal Government that despite the hardship on the citizens, its economic reforms were necessary for a sustainable growth, Ebeke stated: “A constant topic and theme here for us is about how you balance policy.
‘’When it comes to this type of challenging reforms, you have to look at them as packages. You have a package where the first leg is having a clear mechanism to discuss or implement a price modulation for this type of products like petrol but you don’t do it just alone.
“Then you have to blend this first pillar with another one, which is how do you cushion the impact on the most vulnerable.
“So the price adjustments or any effort you are making to resolve the balance sheet problem should be accompanied with something meaningful to the people.
“That is why we see this as a package of policies in the recommendations contained in our annual economic review of the Nigerian economy in May. It clearly stated that those policies should be implemented as packages.
‘’So you have these price modulations that you can design and have a clear and transparent framework for price determination for petroleum price at the pump and also have a robust social safety net programme or a mix of programmes that targets the most vulnerable, so they can really cope with the multiple shocks they face now.”
2024 economic outlook
Ebeke also took a look at the end-of-year position of Nigeria’s economy and the 2025 insight, stating: “I think, maybe three points here. First, the authorities have an ambitious plan to transform the economy, restore market stability, promote growth, and really, really deal with poverty.
‘’This is the ambition. We have clearly stated it. It’s an impressive and very ambitious plan they have. Meanwhile, there is also a recognition that there is significant hardship in Nigeria. The population has to deal with multiple shocks, and those shocks are not just one after the other; they’re also compounded.
‘’Clearly, there is a need right now to continue all the efforts to really reach out to the most vulnerable and ensure that while the reforms are being rolled out, those vulnerable can really be reached out to, and, the administration can help them cope with the challenging situation they face.
‘’I think programmes like the one the Federal Government has, reaching out to 15 million households, providing direct payments, supporting with CNG buses, plans that hopefully will be implemented soon, and additional plans, providing grains, using strategic agricultural reserves to reach out.
“This is very, very important, and those type of initiatives should be accelerated to ease the pain on Nigerians.
“Now, going forward, one of the key issues for Nigeria has always been the revenue part. You can have all the plans, but how do you finance those plans? So raising revenue in a country that has one of the lowest revenue-to-GDP ratio in the world is one of the ultimate priorities for now and also in the medium term.
“Again, why are revenues important? Because you will use them to promote more infrastructure, more development spending, more health, more education spending. So that’s how we see the type of challenges, but also opportunities for the Nigerian economy.
“Now for the remaining part of the year, one of the keys, I would say milestone, or something you can put in the calendar, is really the 2025 budget.
‘’This budget will also set the stage for what would be the priorities for the administration for 2025, given all the challenges and also how to create the opportunities to really ensure that macro stability is restored and also growth is really promoted, going forward.”
Hike in fuel prices without adequate cushioning mechanisms worsen economic hardship — Egbomeade
Reacting to IMF concerns on the effect of the reforms, Clifford Egbomeade, Public Analyst/ Communications Expert said: “IMF’s statement about the pump price of petrol not being market-reflective points to a familiar challenge in the country’s economy.
“Over the years, fuel subsidies have been a contentious issue as they significantly strain government resources, but they also serve as a buffer against the high cost of living for ordinary Nigerians.
“While IMF’s call for market-reflective prices aligns with economic sustainability, it’s important to recognize that many Nigerians rely heavily on petrol, not just for transportation but also for small-scale businesses and power generation.
“Any hike in fuel prices without adequate cushioning mechanisms could worsen economic hardship, especially in a country where inflation, unemployment, and poverty are already pressing concerns.”
On the advice for social net, Egbomeade, said: “The emphasis on social safety nets for the vulnerable population is the right direction, but implementation will be key.
‘’For this to work in Nigeria, the government must first ensure that programs aimed at protecting the vulnerable are transparent, adequately funded, and well-targeted.
‘’If not properly handled, Nigerians could lose faith in both the subsidy removal and the promised social protections.”
Major challenge with economy is failure of policies — Olayinka
In his own reaction, Tajudeen Olayinka, Investment Banker & Stockbroker said: “ IMF is right with its advice to government but the major challenge with the economy is failure of policies, which is making it difficult for economy to be on right path to adjustment.
‘’Economy is simply not adjusting because the program is not well coordinated with the right set of required policies, programs and structures.
‘’Unfortunately, the economy cannot recover from the current crisis without taking it through a well coordinated adjustment program. Adjustment Program is about the most complex program in macroeconomic management.”
[Vanguard]
Folashade Ashley Adegoke, one of the wives of the Ooni of Ife, has revealed why she called her child the “crown prince”.
Last week, the queen and Adeyeye Ogunwusi, the monarch, announced the birth of their baby boy.
In an Instagram post, Folashade disclosed the childbirth followed after the loss of her twin pregnancy. She also described the newborn as a “crown prince”.
The post sparked a wave of reactions on social media with many users tackling Folashade for calling her child the crown prince when the monarch already has two sons — Tadenikawo from Naomi, Ooni’s estranged wife, and Oreade from Tobi Phillips.
In another Instagram post, Folashade disclosed her child is royalty on both his maternal and paternal sides.
She urged mothers to spread positivity to their children through their words. She also lauded her husband for being there during her pregnancy journey while reiterating her love for him.
“Thank you olodumare, for an amazing pregnancy journey which was very sacred for my husband and me, which was successfully kept away from society space to the glory of Olodumare,” she wrote on Tuesday.
“To my ever-loving, supportive husband who has stood by me throughout this journey, every step of the way, from start to finish, with daily prayers.
“You are my world, my crown jewel, Erujeje Adimula Oko Mi, Ikoyi Esho Mi.
“Nothing compares to your love for me and I love you till forever and with every fibre of my being.
“I’m thankful to my big sister for being there for me and for constantly keeping my handle busy with old pictures, old videos, and engagements with loved ones and friends just to kill all curiosity.
“To my amazing PA, thank you for holding every handle down for me during the last 9 months of grooming our prestigious crown prince from both sides of his parents.
“A prince from mother side of Ooni Adagba royal compound of Lafogido ruling house and a prince from father side of Ooni Agbedegbede royal compound of Giesi ruling house combined to the royal throne of Oduduwa.
“As a mother call forth and speak life to your children; call them what you want for them and what you want for them to be.
“Let your children know who they are in this world and what they were born and destined to be without prejudice. It is your duty and right to do so as a mother.
“There is power in your tongue, use it on your children. Do not apologise for speaking life to your seeds to germinate and produce fruit. Do not be pressured by no one or no man.”
Folashade tied the knot with Ooni on October 15, 2022.
She is said to be number four among the wives of the monarch.
The other wives include Mariam Anako, Elizabeth Akinmuda, Temitope Adesegun, and Ronke Ademiluyi.
[TheCable]
•Party wants Wike’s REC associate withdrawn
•INEC to mop up uncollected PVCs
•Police to deploy 35,000 men, 8,000 others, arrest partisan supernumerary officer
•Obi mobilises support for Akpata in Benin
•HURIWA charges INEC on free, fair poll
Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has hinted that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) may not sign the traditional Peace Accord today, ahead of the September 21 governorship poll, because the Nigeria Police, responsible for enforcing the accord, are already acting in the interest of the rival All Progressives Congress (APC).
Obaseki spoke when he received the chairman of the National Peace Committee (NPC), and former military Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, who was on a courtesy visit to him at Government House, Benin City, ahead of the signing of the Peace Accord today, September 12.
The governor’s warning came as the chairman of PDP in Edo State, Dr. Anthony Aziegbemi, raised the alarm over the alleged deployment of associates of former Governor of Rivers State, and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, as Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in the state.
But Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Mahmood Yakubu, said plans had been made to mop up some of the uncollected Permanent Voter Cards across the 18 local government areas of Edo State.
Yakubu added that there were 2.6 million registered voters in the off-cycle election.
Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun, yesterday, disclosed that 35,000 police officers would be deployed to provide security for the Edo governorship election.
The police also disclosed that they had apprehended a supernumerary police officer, following his unbridled display of partisanship in the ongoing campaign for the governorship election.
Nevertheless, the presidential candidate of Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 general election, Mr. Peter Obi, yesterday, joined other members of the party in Benin City to mobilise support for the party’s governorship candidate, Olumide Akpata.
Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) urged INEC to ensure that the election was conducted peacefully, and in a free and fair atmosphere, devoid of rigging or malpractices.
Obaseki had in a statement on September 10, which he personally signed, alleged that since the commencement of the electioneering process in the state, the steps taken by the police had shown that they were one-sided.
During his interaction with Abubakar, the governor reiterated his worry that the police, under the alleged manipulation of APC, had arrested not less than 10 PDP chieftains, perceived to be strong political opposition to them in the coming election.
Obaseki said those arrested included the serving Chairman of Esan West Local Government Area, Hon. Collins Aigbogun, who was arrested and whisked to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.
He stated that upon learning of the council chairman’s arrest, he reached out to Edo State Commissioner of Police, and asked that due process be followed and that the matter be handled within the state’s jurisdiction.
Obaseki said the directive was flouted, directly undermining his authority as Chief Security Officer (CSO) of the state. The governor also stated that the PDP chairman had also written two petitions to the IGP over the harassment of the party leaders, which had not been attended to.
Obaseki, therefore, queried how his party would enter into a peace accord with an umpire who, from the onset, had shown bias in favour to one of the parties in the election.
He demanded the immediate and unconditional release of the PDP chieftains arrested in gestapo style. He stated that if the PDP leaders were legally arrested, they should be charged to court in Benin City to answer for whatever infractions they were alleged to have committed.
The governor told Abubakar and his team, “You are very conversant with the politics of Edo State. You were here in 2020 and we had a very heated election. You know this is an off-cycle election and there is a lot of attention.
“Unlike 2020, I am very worried with the developments in the state today. The party met yesterday and we might not likely sign this agreement.
“This is the first time we are witnessing that the person who is supposed to keep and enforce the peace accord is now an active participant in creating a destructive environment.
“The opposition party in the state, the APC, has always argued that they may not be as popular and didn’t win in the last election, but promised to use federal might to determine the outcome of the election.
“We thought it’s just rhetoric, but in the last four weeks, we’ve had a situation where from the office of the IGP, armed gang policemen have come into Edo State to invade, arrest and take away PDP members.
“As we speak, there are 10 PDP members arrested and detained in Abuja without trial. Two days ago, they came to pick up a local government chairman.”
Explaining Aigbogun’s arrest, Obaseki said, “The chairman was going back home and was attacked and shot at. We reported and the police asked him to come and give evidence. He came and was arrested. As I speak, he is in Abuja.
“Even if an offence has been committed in Edo State, why will you not charge the offenders and try them here in the state? Why take them to Abuja? Are the offences of high treason? Why not charge them to court?
“The IGP’s office came in, issued a warrant to arrest 60 PDP supporters, driving all our leaders into hiding. My role as Chief Security Officer of the state is being made nonsense of by the IGP.”
The governor added, “I heard somebody was arrested and I called the commissioner to inform him. He said he will come back to me only to hear that he moved the person to Abuja. Tell me, sir, how can we sign a peace accord in this situation?
“Clearly, what they are saying is that it’s going to be a violent election and that they are going to use the forces of coercion and intimidation to win elections in Edo, whether we like it or not. That is the message.
“Now that the IGP is in town, we say until everybody arrested is brought back to Edo, and to be tried here in Edo for whatever offences they have committed, we have no confidence that the police will protect us in Edo State during the governorship election.”
On his part, Aziegbemi stated that the Edo State REC, Anugbum Onuoha, was Special Adviser on Lands to Wike while he served as governor.
The state PDP chairman added that the Edo Commissioner of Police (CP), Nemi Edwin-Iwo, another close associate of Wike, was deployed to the state barely a month ago.
He stressed that the close link between the two key officials and the minister meant that the election might have been compromised even before it commenced.
Aziegbemi explained, “We are worried that the election may have been compromised even before it starts. This is because we are certain that the officials responsible for conducting a free, fair and credible election are close associates of the FCT minister, Nyesom Wike.
“The INEC REC in Edo is Wike’s cousin and served as Special Adviser on Lands to him in Rivers State. Everyone in Nigeria knows the antecedents of Wike and his conduct during elections in Rivers State. So, we will not close our eyes and watch him deploy the same tactic in Edo State.
“The current Edo State Commissioner of Police, Nemi Edwin-Iwo, is also a close associate of Wike. We believe he would not act in the best interest of Edo people nor even in the spirit and letters of the Electoral Act.
“So, it is no wonder that the police have been acting arbitrarily in the run up to the election. They have been after members and leaders of the PDP in the last few weeks, as a rogue team has been hounding, arresting and whisking PDP leaders away to Abuja in a gestapo style. So, for us, the precedent has been set and we will not sit and watch these men cause chaos in the state in pursuit of personal vendetta.”
‘IGP Has No Power to Suspend Edo Corps’
Edo State Government yesterday said the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, had no constitutional power to suspend the Edo Security Corps, as it was a creation of the Edo State House of Assembly.
The IGP had at the INEC stakeholders’ meeting announced that the outfit had been suspended ahead of the September 21 governorship election.
But, in a statement, Obaseki’s media adviser, Crusoe Osagie, said, “The Edo State government insists that the ESC is a body set up by law passed by the Edo State House of Assembly.
“This is tantamount to the IGP disbanding the Western Nigeria Security Network, popularly known as Operation Amotekun, ahead of the governorship election in Ondo State billed for next month.”
Osagie added that in the interest of peace in the state, Obaseki had directed that all the officials of the ESC should proceed on leave from today till September 23, after the election.
“Government notes that it is unconstitutional for the IGP to make such a declaration since Section 11 (1), Section 11 (2) empower the State House of Assembly to set up structures for public safety and security of the state.”
INEC to Mop Up Uncollected PVCs
INEC chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, said plans had been made to mop up uncollected Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) across the 18 local government areas of Edo State. He said there were 2.6 million registered voters in the election.
Speaking at the stakeholders meeting held by INEC in Benin City, Yakubu disclosed that the PVCs to be mopped up would be warehoused in the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) until after the governorship election.
He said Edo State had recorded a total of 2,629,025 registered voters, adding that in the electoral umpire, in its commitment to transparency, had made available soft copies of the entire register of voters to each political party fielding candidates in the forthcoming election.
Yakubu said in the next few days, the commission would publish the detailed breakdown of PVCs collected for each of the 4,519 polling units across the state.
Urging that all hands must be on deck to make the job of conducting elections easy, he said election was a multi-stakeholder activity and though INEC had a role to play, this must be complemented by other stakeholders.
The INEC chairman said the Edo State governorship election was not just a national election, but it was also of global interest. He pointed out that the commission had so far accredited 134 groups (124 domestic and 10 international) deploying 1,836 observers across the state.
He stated, “We have accredited 114 media organisations deploying 721 journalists. We have also accredited thousands of agents representing candidates and political parties at the 4,730 polling and collation locations made up of 4,519 polling units, 192 ward collation centres, 18 local government collation centres, and the State Collation Centre.
“I want to assure you that the accreditation tags for all categories of stakeholders are ready. We will announce the date and venue for collection in the next 24 hours. Similarly, election duty vehicle stickers are available for collection from our Edo State office here in Benin City.”
Relatedly, INEC announced an extension of time for the collection of PVCs to enable more voters participate in the September 21 governorship election in Edo State.
The commission took the decision at the end of the stakeholders meeting, held yesterday in Benin City, capital of the state.
The meeting had in attendance the chairmen of political parties, candidates, traditional and religious leaders, security agencies, civil society organisations, and the media.
The stakeholders present were unanimous in their appeal to INEC to consider an extension of a few days for collection of PVCs to enable more voters participate in the election
Consequently, a three-day extension was granted, from Friday 13 to Sunday 15 September.
INEC said the cards will be available for collection in its 18 local government offices across the state from 9am to 5pm daily.
The extension was contained in a statement by INEC National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun mni.
The statement said, “The commission appeals to all registered voters who are yet to collect their PVCs to seize the opportunity of the extension to do so. In line with the commission’s policy, no collection by proxy will be allowed.”
Police to Deploy 35,000 Men, 8,000 Others
Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, said 35, 000 police personnel would be deployed to provide security for the Edo State governorship election scheduled for September 21.
Egbetokun also said 8,000 military and other sister security agencies would be deployed to man the waterways, as well as the entry and exit parts of the state.
The IGP made the disclosure in Benin City, during the stakeholders meeting with political parties and civil society organisations on the election.
He also announced a ban on Edo State Security Network (ESSN) from participating in the security arrangement for the September 21 governorship election in state.
Egbetokun said the task of securing voters and election materials rested squarely on the police, who will be supported by other national security agencies to ensure credible election.
He warned that no private or state-owned security apparatus would be allowed to operate during and after the election.
“All local securities in Edo State should refrain from participating in Edo election. Activities of Edo State Security Network, which has been suspended, remain suspended,” he said.
Egbetokun assured that the police would ensure strict compliance with the Electoral Act and other relevant laws to provide a conducive environment for peaceful conduct of the election.
According to him, the police will not tolerate any act of hooliganism and violence during the election, while anyone caught with weapons during the election will be treated and dealt with as a common criminal.
Meanwhile, the police said they had apprehended a supernumerary police officer, following his unbridled display of partisanship in the campaign for the forthcoming Edo State governorship election.
The officer, in a viral video footage, denigrated the characters of Obaseki and the PDP governorship candidate in the coming election, Dr. Asue Ighodalo.
The police officer in the video footage accused the duo of helping themselves with state resources, and called on voters to reject them at the poll. He appealed to the security operatives to mount surveillance around Obaseki and Ighodalo to prevent them from escaping the wrath of the law.
However, miffed by the unrestrained show of prejudice, Force Public Relations Officer (PRO), Olumuyiwa Adejobi, said the video evidencing political comments by an individual dressed in a Spy Police uniform regarding the Edo State governorship election had been brought to the attention of the police.
Adejobi stated that the police strongly condemned the act, and, however, clarified that the individual was not a regular officer of the Nigeria Police, but a Supernumerary (Spy) Police Officer employed by a private company.
He explained that Supernumerary Police Officers were private individuals trained by the Nigeria Police for specific security functions, primarily within their places of employment.
According to Adejobi, “They are not on the payroll of the NPF and do not swear to the oath of allegiance like sworn regular police officers, thus, they have the right to belong to any political party of their choice and freedom of expression.
“In this extant case, the police frown at the wearing of his official SPY uniform and engaging in political activities.”
The police spokesman said the individual had been arrested for further investigation, and his political comments did not reflect the views of the Nigeria Police.
Obi Mobilises Support for Akpata in Benin
Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, Mr. Peter Obi, yesterday, joined other members of the party in Benin City to mobilise support for the party’s governorship candidate, Olumide Akpata.
Speaking at the different campaign locations, Obi urged eligible voters in the state to come out en masse to cast their votes for LP.
He said the party’s governorship candidate would fix the state, move it forward, and reduce the current hardship in Edo State.
Addressing supporters at the famous Oba Market, Obi said, “You know things have become very bad under this government. There is no light, no water, no security, no fuel. Everything in this country is scattered.
“What we want in Nigeria is change. We want to put food on our table, we want the government to tell us what they are using the money from fuel subsidies for, and we want a better Edo.
“On 21st, you know what you will do, ensure you vote for mama, papa, pikin so that we can start to repair Nigeria from Edo State. We need to change the people that said they are bringing change. You must vote for Olumide Apkata, who is your guy.”
On his part, Akpata said, “This is the time for the election. Our father is here; we need to let them know that we have a father, who is Peter Obi. He asked me if you people will vote and I said we are one of the best voters in this country.
“Who is your guy? I am your guy and Edo will be okay. On the 21st of September, we will sack those occupying on Government House now that have misused our resources.”
However, PDP raised concern over allegations that LP had entered an “unholy pact” with APC to bring Edo people into the same suffering and bondage that Nigerians were going through under the chokehold of the APC government at the centre.
In a statement by Deputy Director General,
Media and Publicity, PDP Campaign Council for 2024 Edo Governorship Election, Rev. Olu Martins, the party gave extensive reasons for its concern.
The statement alleged, “This alliance seeks to take advantage of the fact that the Labour Party’s candidate, Olumide Akpata, comes from Edo South Senatorial District to split the votes in the senatorial district, thereby reducing the APC’s deficit in the overall gubernatorial election scheduled for Saturday, September 21, 2024.
“It is shocking that the Labour Party, who are aware of the suffering, pervasive gloom and oppression that Nigerians have endured in the last nine years of draconian rule, maladministration, and gross mismanagement of the nation’s economy under the clutches of the APC, is now working with these same oppressors to bring similar suffering and bondage to Edo State.
“We are calling on all Edo people to see through this smokescreen and know that a vote for the Labour Party in the forthcoming September 21 gubernatorial election is a vote indirectly cast for the APC who are our oppressors-in-chief, whose government at the centre is superintending over the gradual liquidation of the Nigerian state.”
HURIWA Charges INEC on Free, Fair Poll
Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure that the Edo State governorship election was free, fair, and credible.
HURIWA, in a statement by its National Coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, said the credibility of INEC was under scrutiny following the controversies surrounding the 2023 general election.
The Edo election, the advocacy platform stressed, offered the commission an opportunity to redeem its image under the leadership of Professor Mahmood Yakubu.
HURIWA emphasised that the success of the Edo governorship election would significantly impact public trust in INEC’s ability to conduct credible elections.
The group expressed optimism that if INEC upheld the principles of constitutionalism and transparency, the controversies surrounding the 2023 general election could be mitigated.
[ThisDay]
A Tribute to Alhaji Yunus Ustaz Usman, SAN: A Resplendent Star in the Legal Firmament - Olukayode Ajulo, SAN
Admin
With heart-wrenching sorrow, yet utter submission to the Divine Will, I mourn the passing of my venerable mentor, erudite brother Silk, dearest confidant, and guiding light, Alhaji Yunus Ustaz Usman, SAN. His departure has left an unbridgeable chasm within me and the legal community, a void that can never be filled.
Alhaji Yunus Ustaz Usman, SAN, was a luminary of the Bar, renowned for his exceptional legal acumen, professionalism, generosity and contributions to the development of the legal profession in Nigeria. His achievements were numerous, including the historic feat of being the first black lawyer to address the University of Brighton in its esteemed history lecture series, delivering a keynote address in 2016.
I vividly recall our inaugural encounter in the hallowed halls of justice, Court of Appeal, Abuja, where he approached me with words of encouragement and admiration for my nascent advocacy skills. This serendipitous meeting blossomed into a treasured relationship, nurtured by his genuine interest in my growth and success.
Alhaji Usman's impact on my career has been nothing short of transformative. He was my ardent champion, my hype man of sorts, affectionately addressing me as "Prof" at every opportunity. His enthusiasm knew no bounds when he discovered my fascination with Islamic law, despite my Christian heritage. We engaged in seminal discussions on various schools of thought, with my penchant for the Hanbali School eliciting his special delight. Upon his appointment as a senior member and trustee of the Abuja National Mosque Management Board (ANMMB) and the Board of Trustees of the Education, Social and Health Mission (MESH)., he graciously invited me to his inauguration, where he introduced me to His Eminence, The Sultan of Sokoto Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar CFR mni, regaling him with tales of my uncommon interest and knowledge in Islamic law.
His tireless encouragement to apply for silk, coupled with his generous offer to defray the application fee, and sage advice to be the first to obtain the form for the year, underscored his unwavering investment in my future. His benevolence extended far beyond professional boundaries, as evidenced by the serial gifts of lace fabrics he bestowed upon me, symbolizing his warmth and generosity.
His humility, wisdom, and compassion inspired me to emulate these virtues in my own life. As I reflect on his remarkable life, I am reminded of his numerous achievements, commitments, and contributions to the legal profession. His legacy serves as a beacon, illuminating the path for future generations.
Farewell, Alhaji Yunus Ustaz Usman, SAN. Your departure has left a gaping void in our lives, but your memory and impact will continue to inspire and motivate us. May Almighty Allah grant you al-Jannah Firdaus and comfort your loved ones during this difficult time.
Dr Olukayode Ajulo, OON, SAN
Attorney Genetal of Ondo State
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Tensions are rising in Edo State as Odion Olaye, the Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in Edo, made provocative statements during a recent campaign event in Egor, Benin City.
In support of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate Asue Ighodalo, Olaye’s remarks have sparked controversy ahead of the September 21 gubernatorial election.
A video that has since gone viral captures Olaye confidently assuring PDP supporters of victory, specifically predicting that Egor will be won by the PDP.
However, it was his subsequent comment that has caused a significant stir: Olaye warned that the state “will burn” if the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) does not declare Ighodalo the winner of the upcoming poll.
These remarks have raised concerns about the potential for unrest dependent on the election results, with various stakeholders calling for calm and a focus on democratic processes rather than incendiary rhetoric.
Olaye said, “I want to assure you that PDP, our party, is going to win Egor 80 percent come 21st of this month and on 22nd of this month, they must declare Asue Ighodalo the winner.
“If they refuse to do that, Edo state will burn.”
His comments come on the heels of allegations and counter allegations by parties.
In one of the scenarios, the state PDP Chairman, Dr. Tony Aziegbemi, said it has uncovered plans by the All Progressives Congress (APC) to use fake INEC staff who would be posing as technical staff to tamper with the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS).
Media Director of APC Campaign Council, Prince Kassim Afegbua, however dismissed the allegation.
Watch the video below:
Media
A Lagos State Special Offences Court, in Ikeja, on Tuesday, convicted and sentenced an American businessman, Marco Antonio Ramirez, to 74 years imprisonment, for defrauding victims of $1.2m, through an EB-5 visa scam and an additional $368,698.24, in fraud.
Justice Mojisola Dada, who handed down the sentence, found Ramirez guilty on two separate consolidated charges brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.
The court ruled that the prosecution had proved its case beyond a reasonable doubt.
On the first charge, Ramirez was sentenced to eight years each on counts one to six, and 10 years each on counts seven and eight.
On the second charge, he received 10 years each on counts one to 12 for obtaining money by false pretence, and 10 years each on counts 13 to 16 for stealing.
The EFCC said Ramirez and his companies, USA Now LLC, Eagle Ford Instalodge Group LP, and USA Now Energy Capital Group LP, obtained the said money from their victims by promising them access to the Employment-Based Fifth Preference United States of America Investor Programme, which would qualify them to be eligible for the issuance of USA Green Card and permanent residency, but that the convict reneged on his promise.
Instead of fulfilling these promises, Ramirez converted the funds for his personal use.
Dada, in her judgment, held that “The convict dishonestly converted the money meant for investments to his personal use.
“The prosecution has successfully proved that the promises made to the victims were false, and the funds obtained were under fraudulent pretences,” she said.
The EFCC said Ramirez’s fraudulent activities took place in 2013, noting that one of the victims, Godson Echegile, lost $545,000 to Ramirez under the false pretext that it was a processing fee for his investment, which would qualify him for a U.S. Green Card through the EB-5 programme.
He was initially arraigned on 12 counts bordering on fraud and he pleaded not guilty. Later, the EFCC amended the charge and Ramirez was re-arraigned on 16 counts on June 24, 2022.
The American was said to have committed the offences on February 5 2013 and April 18, 2013, in Lagos.
When the trial commenced, the prosecution counsel, M.S. Owede, who led Samuel Daji, tendered several documentary evidence and called witnesses to prove the allegations against him and he was cross-examined by the defence counsel, Mr. Lawal Pedro (SAN).
The case suffered several adjournments at the stage of adoption of final written addresses before counsel in the suit eventually adopted their final addresses on May 8, 2024, and the judge adjourned for judgment.
However, while delivering judgment on Tuesday, Dada found Ramirez guilty as charged and sentenced him to 10 years each on counts one to 12 bordering on obtaining by false pretence, and 10 years each on counts 13 to 16 bordering on stealing.
The judge also found him guilty on another separate amended nine-count charge bordering on $368,698.24 fraud.
In a separate case, Ramirez was found guilty of defrauding another victim, Gabriel Ogie Edeoghon, for $250,000 on July 26, 2013.
He falsely claimed that the money was for an investment in the USA Now Energy Capital Group LP, which would make Edeoghon eligible for a U.S. Green Card through the EB-5 visa programme.
Ramirez received additional sentences of eight years each on counts one to six and 10 years each on counts seven and eight for this particular fraud.
Several persons have been feared killed after a speeding vehicle rammed into the Oye-Agu Market, Abagana, in Njikoka Local Government Area of Anambra State.
The incident, it was gathered occurred at about 11:10am on Wednesday, causing several items of the traders spilling on the road.
Eyewitnesses near the scene said the driver of the Toyota Sienna vehicle lost control of its brakes and rammed into the market, crushing some of the roadside traders.
Details of the crash and the actual casualty figure are still sketchy.
However, the incident has caused panic and crowded scenes in the market environs with various rescue efforts ongoing.
Some of the injured victims were being rushed to a nearby hospital.
The President-General of the Abagana Community, Ben Okongwu, who confirmed the incident to journalists further revealed that no fewer than three persons died in the crash, including an under-aged child, while some other persons sustained some degrees of injuries.
However, when contacted, the Spokesperson for the Federal Road Safety Corps in Anambra State, Margaret Onabe, said she was not aware of the incident, promising to make enquiries and get back.
The Nigeria Police Force announced on Wednesday the arrest of a Supernumerary Police Officer who urged Edo State residents not to vote for the Peoples Democratic Party’s governorship candidate, Àsue Ighodalo.
In a video seen by our correspondent, the spy policeman accused the Governor of Edo State, Godwin Obaseki, of embezzlement and undermining democracy.
He stated, “This election on 21st September is not just about APC, PDP, and Labour. It’s about the evil acts committed by Godwin Obaseki and Ighodalo against the people of this state. They have fought and betrayed democracy, abandoned the rule of law, stolen our resources, and now is the time for judgement.
“This is the time for the people to tell them that we are the rightful owners of this state. Obaseki and Ighodalo have financially ruined this state, leading us into debt.
“Furthermore, they’ve used our resources to build their personal estates. Today, Obaseki and Ighodalo have used state resources to establish Globus Bank. I recall that during Adams Oshiomhole’s tenure, Ighodalo was asked to chair a state economic team, but he refused because there wasn’t enough money to pay him.
“That’s how he recommended Godwin Obaseki. You can see they are trying to make governance a family affair between two friends. We, the Edo people, will not allow that. Now is the time to bring Obaseki to justice.”
The officer further alleged that Obaseki had avoided consequences due to his immunity as governor, but warned that he would be held accountable after his tenure.
He added, “Obaseki has committed numerous crimes against the Edo people. He has been spared due to the immunity granted by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Soon, his immunity will expire, and the Edo people will hold him accountable. We know they will lose, and Obaseki knows it too.”
In response to the video, Force spokesperson Muyiwa Adejobi condemned the remarks made by the spy policeman in an official statement.
Adejobi clarified that Supernumerary Police Officers are private individuals trained by the Nigeria Police for specific security duties and are not regular police officers.
He explained, “The NPF strongly condemns this act and clarifies that the individual in question is not a regular officer of the Nigeria Police Force but a Supernumerary (Spy) Police Officer employed by a private company.
“Supernumerary Police Officers are private individuals trained by the Nigeria Police for specific security functions, usually within their place of employment. They are not on the NPF payroll and do not swear an oath of allegiance like regular police officers. While they have the right to belong to any political party and freedom of expression, the Police frown upon the use of an official SPY uniform for political activities.”
Adejobi confirmed that the officer had been arrested and was under investigation.
He added, “The individual involved has been arrested for further investigation. We reiterate that his political comments do not reflect the views of the Nigeria Police.
The public is urged to disregard such statements and trust in our continued commitment to professionalism, neutrality, and the rule of law.”