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The convener of #RevolutionNow Movement, Omoyele Sowore, has been granted bail by a Federal High Court in Abuja to the tune of N10m and one surety in like sum.
According to the ruling of the court, the surety must be a responsible individual with landed property valued in like sum.
The surety is expected to deposit the original documents of a landed property and a passport photograph to the Registrar of the court.
The trial judge, while ruling on the bail application on Thursday, ordered Sowore to also deposit his International Passport with the Registrar of the court.
The trial judge, however, gave Sowore 24 hours to perfect the bail conditions or be remanded by the Police until the bail is perfected.
LEADERSHIP reports that Sowore, founder and two-time presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC) in the 2019 and 2023 general elections, respectively, is being prosecuted by the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) on 17-count charges bordering on cybercrimes and deliberately calling the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, ‘illegal IGP’.
Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi has vowed to restore government authority in the eastern part of the country, which has been overrun by Rwanda-backed M23 rebels.
Tshisekedi made the vow in a televised address on Wednesday night.
The group has seized control of the key city of Goma and is advancing southward, threatening to capture more territory.
Tshisekedi announced a “vigorous and coordinated response” against the rebels, whom he labeled “terrorists,” and criticized the international community for its lack of action in addressing the escalating security crisis.
He called on all Congolese citizens to support the army’s efforts to regain control of the region, promising that the country would not succumb to “humiliation” and would triumph in the face of the rebel onslaught.
The ongoing conflict, which has displaced over 500,000 people, has significantly worsened the humanitarian situation.
Goma has been left without electricity and water, and food shortages are rampant, according to the United Nations.
While President Tshisekedi snubbed a virtual summit convened by East African leaders, including Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame, the summit called for a peaceful resolution and urged the Congolese government to engage directly with all armed groups, including the M23.
Tshisekedi has consistently refused direct dialogue with the rebels, preferring to speak with Rwanda.
Tshisekedi also expressed gratitude for the South African Development Community (SADC) peacekeepers and UN forces who have died in the conflict.
Thirteen South African peacekeepers were killed in Goma, escalating tensions between South Africa and Rwanda.
In response to a statement by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa accusing Rwanda of involvement in the deaths, Kagame warned of potential confrontation, rejecting claims of a distorted narrative.
As M23 continues to make gains, reports indicate that the group is heading towards Bukavu, DR Congo’s second-largest city.
The Congolese army has set up a defense line, though the rebels have faced little resistance so far. Meanwhile, Angola has called for urgent talks between the Congolese and Rwandan leaders, with efforts to resume peace discussions under the East African Community framework.
International calls for Rwanda to withdraw its forces from DR Congo have intensified, with countries such as the United States, the European Union, and China urging the withdrawal.
Both the UN and DR Congo have accused Rwanda of supporting the M23, while Rwanda has denied the claims, suggesting that Congolese militias are attempting to overthrow the Rwandan government.
The ongoing conflict has prompted significant international pressure, with countries like the UK and Germany threatening to cut aid to Rwanda in response to the violence.
The UK has put £32 million of bilateral aid under review, and Germany has canceled planned aid talks with Rwanda.
[DailyPost]
Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Olayemi Cardoso, on Wednesday, announced that the Federal Government has cleared the outstanding $7bn foreign exchange following a successful verification exercise by forensic auditors.
Cardoso disclosed this at the launch of Nigeria’s Regulatory Policy Framework organised by the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council.
The event, which was tagged the regulators’ forum, took place at the State House Conference Hall in Abuja.
Cardoso explained that they are optimistic the clearance of the $7bn backlog would ease off the bottlenecks associated with repatriation of funds by businesses, multinationals and foreign investors.
According to the CBN governor, the outstanding forex clearance took far longer than they earlier anticipated.
He said, “In addressing foreign exchange liquidity constraint, decisive steps have been taken to clear outstanding $7bn forex backlog to ensure that businesses, multinationals, corporations and foreign investors can repatriate funds seamlessly
“This initiative has restored confidence among market participants and reinforced Nigeria’s commitment to honouring financial obligations in a timely and efficient manner. Talking about the $7bn backlog, we have cleared the verified claims.
“We also looked at the unverified ones, and I believe that we are at the final stages of separating what qualifies as fully verified, and we will surely be paying out those money that have been verified by the forensic auditors. It is unfortunate, to be honest, that it has taken so long.
“But the truth of the matter is that there were a lot of practices that went on that really should never have happened in the first place. That said, we are going to ensure that we do what we need to do to strengthen our market and create a better trust in what you investors naturally desire and deserve.”
Earlier in her address, PEBEC Director-General, Princess Zahrah Audu, explained that one of the key indicators for the commission was that the majority of the companies expected the government to provide them with a stable and predictable policy environment.
She said, “We are going to help you become a part of the formation of this policy because one of the things we actively encourage our MDAs to do is to have a sectoral stakeholder engagement in smaller groups. Now there is a more thorough process to go through before a policy is passed into law.
“It is very important to note that this administration will do things differently. We are constantly asking for your input because we don’t think we know it all. When you look at business from a government perspective, it is very different from looking at it from a private sector view.
“It is important that we always balance the two and see ourselves as stakeholders. Our doors will always be open, and we will be very responsive when it comes to calls and emails. As earlier said, my predecessor has left a viable platform for us to build on.”
![[PRESS RELEASE] Obidient Movement Advisory Council](/media/k2/items/cache/5ca369eca9ed5890d579c7c7198fea26_M.jpg)
The emergence of the OBIDIENT movement has profoundly transformed Africa's political landscape, particularly in Nigeria, where it has disrupted the norms of traditional politics. This movement, driven by passionate young Nigerians, has mobilized unprecedented support for Mr. Peter Obi, establishing itself as a formidable force in the country's political arena.
Harnessing various media platforms, the OBIDIENT movement has effectively spread its message, engaged voters, and challenged the dominance of Nigeria's major political parties. This new wave of political activism has sparked increased youth participation and reshaped the strategies employed in political campaigns across the nation.
What started as a grassroots initiative to reform Nigeria's stagnant political system has evolved into a global socio-ideological phenomenon. The movement resonates deeply with citizens who are tired of corruption, insecurity, and economic hardship. Today, the OBIDIENT movement stands as one of Africa's most impactful campaigns, inspiring people worldwide.
The driving force behind the movement is a collective desire for change, transparency, and accountability. The movement embodies the aspirations of a generation determined to reclaim Nigeria’s future and build a better nation for all its citizens.
It represents a unique ideological culture in Nigeria and across sub-Saharan Africa, rooted in the principles of volunteerism and unwavering commitment. It is driven by citizens who are disillusioned with retrogressive leadership, unfulfilled potential, and outdated stereotypes.
The movement transcends political affiliations, socio-cultural backgrounds, ethnic identities, religious beliefs, and racial boundaries, uniting Nigerians and Africans under a shared vision for progress.
The OBIDIENT Movement Ethos: The 5Cs for a New Nigeria
Competence: Deliver results.
Character: Lead with integrity.
Capacity: Handle complexity.
Credibility: Earn trust.
Compassion: Put the people first.
In building our structural base from the previous regional engagement we had and as approved by His Excellency Peter Obi kindly find below the list of Advisory Council and Directorate Members to be followed up with the states Collegiate at a later date.
Regional Advisory council
NW
• Ibrahim Abdulkarim
• Shuaibu Fagge
• Hamisu Santuraki
• Abduljaleel Dangulbi
• Maryam uthman
• Sidi Aba
NE
• Prof. Kalep Bulus Filli
• Sani Abdulssalam.
• Prof Anna Mohammed Malgwi
• Zanna Ali Haruna
• Ayuba thlama Wakawa
• Jerry Martin kanjo
NC
• Peter Ameh
• Dr Joseph Ndarang
• Daniel Shehu Gambo
• Sewuese Apeverga (Selma)
• Pamson Dagyat
. Nedd Gideon
. Mahmud Adamu
SE
• Dr Njideka Ezeadili (Dr DEKA)
• Patrick Obi
• Professor Owojecho Omoha
• Eng Emmanuel Ihemadu
• Florence Ndidi
• Prince Solomon Udochukwu
. Ekene Nwakuche
SW
• Hon Seyi Sowunmi
• Dele Farotimi
• Rev Eliashib Ime-James
• Lanre Fadahunsi
• Akin Olaoye
. Baba Oloye
SS
• Professor Nwakobia
• Dcn Chris Iyoware
• Dr. Peterside Sofiri Starson Jnr.
• Olumide Akpata
• Obonganwan Barbra Etim James.
• Naomi Essien
Supporting Advisory council
Oseloka Obaze
Mr Ifeanyi Thaddaus Ezeagu.
Ikenna Azomchi
Sheikh Anata
March Oyinki
Ndi Kato
Dr Stanley Kavwam
Hon Onochie Osheokwu
Chinaa Nwokorie
Luka Dalang
Pastor Austin
Dr Binna Ekechukwu
Prof Stella Okuna
Augustine iyan okon
Eboh Okorie
Dr Fola Adebayo
Elder Chika Nwobu
Prisca Chinwe Eboh
Dr A Ogbanufe
Hilda Dokubo
Dcn Ken Pela
Muhammad Yahaya
Abubakar isa
Abdulwasiu saidu
Samuel Musa
Jonathan Alfred
Abubakar sordiq
Patricia Eduajemiekemo
Emmanuel oladotun
Dr Joseph Onuorah
Dr Ope Banwo
Blossom Martins
Miss Dabira Olayinka
Jumoke Alawode
Comrade dele Abiola
Arch. Chinelo Ofoche
Directorate of the National Assembly Advisory Council.
Arinze Ekene Chikelu
Hon Uchenna H. Okonkwo
Anyalogu Nelson
Engr chuks Odimegwu
LINUS ABBA OKORIE
Barrister Femi Kehinde
Babatunde Olaniyan
Bar Ikpendu Ogada
Mr. Ekene Orogbu
Hon Cosmo Agbo, PhD.
Robert Obasi
Rotimi Odunaike
Lanre Akinola
Dr. Frank IK Oduah
Tekena McPepple
Prof. Patrick Igbinaduwa
Hauwa Magoro Kebbi State
Eniola Onaola
Dr Ekwe Okwudiri Chris.
Lanre Farinloye
Kunle Soaga
Hon Sunday Umeha
CHIEF CHARLES OKAFOR
Omobolanle Ogunnaike
Micheal Anokwuru
FESTUS UGWA
Maj. General Chris Eze (rtd)
Hon. Amb. Daniel Asama Ago.
Advisory Directorates .
• Operations (Admin, events and programs, security/intelligence, human resources and capacity development). —
• Political Engagement.
• Mobilisation and membership. (Recruitment, Grassroot Projects)
• Research, policy development and strategy.
• Finance, fundraising, resource mobilisation and accountability.
• Legal and constitutional affairs.
• Technology and data management/analysis.
• Communications.
• Diaspora Engagement.
• National Assembly.
Technology and data management/analysis:
Anthony Chinwo
Linous Okoreie
Finance, fundraising, resource mobilisation and accountability:
Val Ozigbo
Mbagwu Ndidi -
Nexus
Abubakar Yewale
Mobilisation:
Blessing Okoli - Jack
Justin Kingland
Uchenna Nwabueze
Serah Ibrahim
Monday Otene
Akor Christian (Due process)
Sunday Baloma
Enan Maigari
Hauwa Ashafa (Arewa Chick)
Daniel Okpe Ejembi
Daniel Elombah
Morris Monye
Mirrabel Imote
Chigozie Alex Ifeanyichukwu
Jabir Ibrahim Yaro
Benjamin Adze Sarki (SarkiB)
Elijah Umanu
Mr Lucky Chidi Kanu
Micheal Igwe
Communications And Media:
Eyitemi Taire
Judith Akatugba
Nana Kazaure
Babangida Kakaki
David Obiasogu
Kamal Yusuf
Chuka Ufondu
Daniel Elombah
Mazi Ezeoke
Kiibati Bankole
Uchenna Nwabueze
Priscilia Amadi
Uche Okoye
Dotun Oyebolu
Barr. Ken Eluma Asogwa
Legal and constitutional affairs:
Barr. Vincent otaakpukpu
Barr. Kelechchukwu Uzoka
Diaspora
Dr David Ogula
Ayo Desilva
Bolanle Emiabata-Anibaba
Dr Tonia Ogbanufe
Barr Prisca Eboh
Dr Joseph Onuorah
Stephen Osemwinge
Tonnie Aseaomeh
Ify Davies
Research, Policy Development and strategy:
Dr Chukwudi Analo
Jamila M. Umar
Political engagement:
Engr. Okechukwu Chikwendu
Alhaji Attah Ikeleji
Barr Eunice Atujide
Together, we affirm that a new Nigeria is POssible!
Signed,
Dr. Tanko Yunusa
National Coordinator, OBIDIENT Movement
The Nigeria Police Force has filed a notice of discontinuance in the alleged defamation suit filed by the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, against Lagos-based legal practitioner and author, Dele Farotimi.
Channels Television sighted the notice of discontinuance dated January 29th which was filed pursuant to Section 108 (1) (2)(a) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015 and which seeks to withdraw the charge pending against Mr Farotimi at the Federal High Court, Ado-Ekiti.
The notice, which was signed by the police prosecutor, Samson Osobu, also disclosed that the police would be asking the court to strike out the charge following the desire of the nominal complainant, Are Afe Babalola, to discontinue the case after the intervention of well-meaning Nigerians.
As of the time of writing this report, parties to the suit have gathered at the Federal High Court, Ado Ekiti and the prosecution has served the notice on the defendants counsel in court.
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The judge is, however, yet to sit to formally strike out the charge.
Meanwhile, there is still another charge filed by the police which is pending at the Magistrate Court, Ado Ekiti, which has not been discontinued. That case will come up on February 13, 2025.
The expectation is that the police will discontinue that case before the next adjourned date.
Activist-cum-politician, Omoyele Sowore, has pleaded not guilty to the cybercrime charges against him at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, had filed the charges against Sowore for calling him an “illegal IGP.”
Sowore had made the remark on his verified X handle.
However, the activist is standing trial before Justice Liman of the FCT High Court and was docked at about 10:00 am when the charges were read to him.
When the charges were read, Sowore pleaded not guilty to all the charges.
Meanwhile, several of his followers had protested in front of the court over Sowore’s arraignment
[PRESS STATEMENT] Regional Rift: Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger Withdraw from ECOWAS Effective January 29, 2025
Admin![[PRESS STATEMENT] Regional Rift: Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger Withdraw from ECOWAS Effective January 29, 2025](/media/k2/items/cache/2c7f639c641cd9d46459b123b0fdd09b_S.jpg)
The withdrawal of Burkina Faso, the Republic of Mali and the Republic of Niger from ECOWAS has become effective today, 29. January 2025. However, in the spirit of regional solidarity and in the interest of the people, as well as the decision of the ECOWAS Authority to keep ECOWAS' doors open, all relevant authorities within and outside ECOWAS Member States are requested and required to:
a) recognize National passports and identity cards bearing ECOWAS logo held by the citizens of Burkina Faso, the Republic of Mali and the Republic of Niger, until further notice.
b) continue to treat goods and services coming from the three countries in accordance with the ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme (ETLS) and investment policy.
c) allow citizens of the three affected countries to continue to enjoy the right of visa free movement, residence and establishment in accordance with the ECOWAS protocols until further notice.
d) provide full support and cooperation to ECOWAS officials from the three countries in the course of their assignments for the Community.
These arrangements will be in place until the full determination of the modalities of our future engagement with the three countries by the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government. The Commission has set up a structure to facilitate discussions on these modalities with each of the three countries. This message is necessary to avoid confusion and disruption in the lives and businesses of our people during this transition period.
The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Education (Basic and Secondary), Sen. Lawal Adamu Usman, disclosed that presently, Nigeria has about 7.6 million out-of-school children.
Sen. Usman, who represents Kaduna Central Senatorial District, charged religious and traditional leaders in the country to champion the adequate education and empowerment of the girl child in their respective communities.
He also appealed to the World Bank to expand its Adolescents Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) project to cover 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in the interest of the girl-child all over Nigeria.
Sen. Usman stated this on Tuesday in Abuja in his goodwill message to the National Conference on Girl-Child Education and Empowerment with Traditional and Religious Leaders in Nigeria, which had the theme “Effective Partnerships on Girls Education, Out of School Children Education for National Development.”
The senator emphasised that without the support of the religious and traditional leaders in the country, the level of education the girl-child could attain in life “will remain a mirage.”
The Senate Committee Chairman on Education (Basic and Secondary) maintained that religious and traditional leaders throughout the country have crucial roles in raising and empowering girls’ education standards.
He further disclosed that his committee has been working assiduously on the amendment of the Basic Education (Amendment) Bill, which is now at the third reading stage before the Senate, as well as the Bill for an Act to amend the Compulsory, Free Universal Basic Education Act, Cap N4 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2024 and for other Related Matters 2024, which is being sponsored by himself and has passed the second reading stage.
Sen. Usman stressed that when the bill is finally enacted, it will revolutionise and revitalise basic education, including girl-child education in Nigeria.
“3.9 million of them are girls at the primary level, and 3.7 million others are at the junior secondary level. More than 50% of girls in our country are not attending school at the basic education level. Regrettably, about one million girls drop out between primary school’s first and last year, and 0.6 million between primary six and JSS1.”
“Girls account for 38% of Nigeria’s out-of-school children. Their education is being hindered by major barriers such as child marriage, poverty and gender discrimination. All these prevent the girl-child from learning and completing her education,” the senator said.
The National Conference hosted by the Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, who delivered the Keynote Address on the occasion, was also attended by the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III; Emir of Argungu, Samaila Muhammad Mera; Oba Tajudeen Jimoh from Ekiti State, religious leaders and other stakeholders from across the country.
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has dismissed troops who have arrested claims that wanted terrorist kingpin Bello Turji in the North West.
Social media has been awash with unverified reports that the wanted terror leader has been arrested.
Bello Turji has been responsible for unrest in Zamfara, Sokoto, Katsina and other North Western states.
He was declared wanted by the military in early 2024, and in December 2024, he was declared a “dead man walking.”
Reacting to the reports, the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Edward Buba, said, “Please treat all news regarding the arrest of Bello Turji by troops as fake news.”
![[PRESS RELEASE] Obi not against coalition, clarifies Report](/media/k2/items/cache/83cbe9c0d5c85885f4ca563f2f72ff36_S.jpg)
Writing in his X handle the Labour Party leader, Peter Obi has clarified his misrepresented interview report of Monday that he was against political coalition.
"I have observed that my honest interview yesterday was misquoted by many media outlets, creating a false narrative that misrepresents my position. Let me set the record straight:
"I am not against coalition, in truth, I am for it not for power grab but to position Nigeria for greatness.
I have not, and will never, advocate for any coalition or alliance that does not prioritize the welfare and progress of the ordinary Nigerian. Any discussion about governance must centre on what it means for the everyday Nigerian, how it will address critical issues such as access to quality healthcare, and education, and pulling people out of poverty.
"Too often in our nation’s history, individuals and groups have come together solely for the purpose of taking power for power's sake. Such endeavours, devoid of genuine purpose and vision, have only deepened our challenges, leaving the ordinary Nigerian to bear the brunt of bad governance. This is what I stand firmly against.
"Leadership must be about service, not self-interest. It must be about building a nation where opportunities abound for all, where justice and equity are non-negotiable, and where governance works for the people, not against them.
"As I have always maintained, the New Nigeria is possible. But it requires us to change the way we think about power. It is not about grabbing it; it is about using it responsibly to transform lives and secure a brighter future for generations to come.
Ibrahim Umar
POMR SPOKESMAN
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[PRESS RELEASE] NAFDAC Launches Operation Clean Up Aba: Seals Cemetery Market Aba For The Second Time In Two Years And Confiscats Fake Food And Beverages Worth Over Five Billion Naira
Admin![[PRESS RELEASE] NAFDAC Launches Operation Clean Up Aba: Seals Cemetery Market Aba For The Second Time In Two Years And Confiscats Fake Food And Beverages Worth Over Five Billion Naira](/media/k2/items/cache/46a8670bcfe63b3bf6748c2bf4928a3b_XS.jpg)
Cemetery market Aba regarded as the most dreaded and hitherto safe haven for the largest cartel ring for the manufacture of fake wines and beverages in Africa has been short down again by NAFDAC in a decisive move to curb the circulation of fake and substandard wine and beverages in Nigeria.
The current action of NAFDAC is the most audacious since the history of the market with specific zones barricaded with iron welding and access gates locked till date. The operation carried out in conjunction with a large contingency of the military, DSS and Nigeria Police, in a rare display of inter-agency cooperation, was a follow up to a similar raid that was carried out in December 2023.
Some of the nefarious activities of the counterfeiters included the manufacturing of all kinds of adulterated products especially different kinds of wine from a wide variety of brands ranging from the following:
· Seaman Schnapps, Henessy, Four Cousins
· Carlo Rossi, Jenney, Chelsea London Dry Gin
· Schnapp Dry Gin, McDowells, Black Labels
· Gordons, Martell, Campari, Smirnoff ice
· Eva Non-Alcoholic Drink, Evra Non-Alcoholic Drink, Cartel and others.
As a consequence of the extensive operation, the agency raided over 240 shops turned factories where the harmful products were being produced and marketed. The shops turned factories are very filthy, using water from very unhygienic sources, harmful chemicals, saccharin, colouring, dirty recycled bottles and cloned packaging materials of other brands. The adulteration of alcoholic beverages by criminal elements in the country is done by mixing of cheaper sources of sugar and starch besides grapes or fruit, among other harmful chemicals unsuitable for human consumption.
Over 1500 cartons of the fake and substandard products were destroyed during the operation. The street value of the confiscated and destroyed fake products in 2023 is estimated at over seven hundred and fifty million naira only. (N750,000,000). The estimated value of products mopped up during the December 15, 2024, operation is five billion naira. The products being revalidated and mopped up include:
· Soft and carbonated drinks such as Fanta, Coca Cola
· Schweppes, Lacasera, Sprite, Hollandia Yoghurt
· Super Commando Energy Drink, Feyrouz and Amstel Malta.
Aside from drinks, notable fake home use beverages such as:
· Peak Sachet Milk, Cowbell Sachet Milk, Peak Chocolate Drink
· Miksi Sachet Milk, Cadbury Chocolate Drink and Ovaltine adulterated versions.
Prior to the evacuation of the products by NAFDAC, they were being produced in the market and neatly packaged and sold to unsuspecting consumers.
NAFDAC management appreciates the support from the Government of Abia state led by His Excellency Governor Alex Otti for his unwavering support for this project OPERATION CLEAN UP ABA. The Mayor of Aba south and the interim management committee of the market and other stakeholders have been working assiduously with NAFDAC on the project leading to another discovery of three major warehouses stockpiling expired HOLLANDIA YOGHURT for revalidation on the 22nd of January 2025.
NAFDAC wishes to assure the public of her determination to safeguard the health of the nation and enjoins the general public to report any suspected fake and substandard regulated product to the nearest NAFDAC office.
NAFDAC: Safeguarding the Health of the Nation
Prof Mojisola Christianah Adeyeye, FAS
Governor Aiyedatiwa and Deputy Governor Adelami Score Big in the Court of Appeal - Kayode Ajulo, SAN
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In a momentous legal triumph, Governor Aiyedatiwa and Deputy Governor Adelami have outmaneuvered Agboola Ajayi, the PDP candidate, with a ruling delivered today at the Court of Appeal in Akure. The court has decisively struck down and dismissed the appeal from Ajayi and the People's Democratic Party, thereby reinforcing Aiyedatiwa's authority in office.
Ajayi and the PDP contended that Dr. Adelami lacked the qualifications to run for election, even referencing a Bayelsa State precedent in their bid for disqualification.
This ruling stands as a watershed moment in our political saga, reaffirming the electoral mandate granted to Aiyedatiwa and Adelami. Their administration is laser-focused on delivering on its commitments to the citizenry, and the court's decision underscores the vital role of the judiciary in safeguarding electoral integrity.
In conclusion, I offer my sincere congratulations to the Governor and Deputy Governor. To the appellant, as a brother and friend, it’s high time to wake up and recognize the futility of this endless chase against an unimpeachable mandate conferred by the people of Ondo State. Let’s rally together and channel our energies toward the collective advancement of our state, for the will of the people is an inviolable covenant that must be honored.
Dr Kayode Ajulo, OON, SAN
The Kano State Government has withdrawn all criminal charges against #EndBadGovernance protesters, marking a significant victory for justice and civil liberties in Nigeria.
Vanguard learnt that the Attorney General of Kano State, through the Director of Public Prosecutions, ordered the discontinuation of the charges on 27 January 2025.
This decision addresses the controversial arrests made during the nationwide protests held between 1 and 10 August 2024.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by Citizens’ Gavel, signed by Rachael Adio, Communications Associate, the organisation described this development as a landmark moment in upholding the constitutional freedoms of Nigerians.
She explained that the decision followed a petition submitted by Citizens’ Gavel on 5 November 2024, urging the Attorney General to exercise his powers under Section 211(1)(c) of the 1999 Constitution to dismiss the charges.
“Five months later, the withdrawal of these charges marks a significant victory for justice, reaffirming the rights of citizens to peacefully express their grievances without fear of persecution.
“Fundamental Human Rights Enforcement Applications were also filed in court, with Citizens’ Gavel providing free legal support and representation to the affected victims prior to this landmark decision.
“Citizens’ Gavel commends the Honourable Attorney General of Kano State for upholding the rule of law and respecting the constitutional freedoms of Nigerians.
“We remain committed to advocating for justice, protecting civil liberties, and ensuring accountability within the justice system.
“We believe that a Nigeria where the rights of the people to dissent and peacefully protest are safeguarded is possible,” the statement added.
The protesters had faced allegations of conspiracy to commit treason, unlawful assembly, and public disturbance, which Citizens’ Gavel described as baseless.
Citizens’ Gavel provided free legal support and filed Fundamental Human Rights Enforcement Applications in court on behalf of the victims.
The Sultanate Council of Sokoto has instructed the Muslim Ummah to observe the crescent of Sha’aban 1446 AH on Wednesday, corresponding to the 29th day of Rajab 1446 AH in the Islamic calendar.
Prof. Sambo Junaidu, the Waziri of Sokoto and Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, conveyed the directive in a statement issued on Tuesday.
The statement said when the crescent moon is sighted, it should be reported to the nearest district or village heads for onward communication to the sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, for official confirmation.
“May Allah (SWT) help us in the discharge of this religious duty. Amen,” the statement added.
In Islam, the sighting of the new moon of Sha’aban is significant, as Sha’aban is the month preceding Ramadan, the holy month of fasting.
The declaration of the new moon marks the start of Sha’aban and aids Muslims in preparing for Ramadan.
[DailyTrust]