The six-member investigative panel established by the Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) for Zone 2 Command, AIG Fayoade M. Adegoke, has completed its inquiry into the incident highlighted in a viral video. The video showed a woman claiming she was detained in a cell at Maroko Police Station alongside male and underage individuals.

The panel, composed of media representatives, civil society organizations, legal practitioners, and senior police officers, has submitted its findings to the AIG. During the submission, the panel assured that the investigation was carried out diligently and thoroughly.

The panel commended the police for their proactive response and emphasized the need to maintain public trust and reduce human rights abuses within the force. AIG Fayoade expressed gratitude to the panel for its dedication and stated that the findings would be forwarded to the Inspector General of Police (IGP) for further consideration and action. He reaffirmed his commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring transparency in policing within Zone 2.

Festus Keyamo, Nigeria’s minister of aviation and aerospace development, announced that the country’s compliance score on the Cape Town Convention (CTC) index has risen from 70.5% to 75.5%. This improvement has officially removed Nigeria from the Aviation Working Group’s (AWG) watchlist of non-compliant countries.

According to a statement from Tunde Moshood, Keyamo’s special adviser, this achievement follows the signing of the Irrevocable De-registration and Export Request Authorization (IDERA), which facilitates the repossession of aircraft by creditors and lessors, completing Nigeria’s compliance process under the CTC.

Keyamo highlighted that the improved score will enhance opportunities for aircraft financing and dry leasing, granting Nigerian airlines better access to global leasing markets. This development is expected to increase flight frequencies, expand routes, and lower ticket prices, benefiting the public.

This milestone builds on the Nigerian government’s signing of the CTC practice direction on September 12, which had previously boosted the compliance score from 49% to 70.5%, creating a safer environment for aircraft leasing.

In a landmark event, the Kenyan Senate has voted to impeach Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, marking the first time a deputy president has been ousted since the country’s 2010 constitutional reforms. The Senate found Gachagua guilty on five out of 11 charges, including corruption, money laundering, insubordination, ethnic divisiveness, and undermining the government. Conviction on just one charge was sufficient for his removal.

This impeachment follows a vote by the National Assembly, where the motion to remove him was overwhelmingly supported. Despite his denial of the charges, Gachagua, 59, was unable to testify in his defense due to being hospitalized with severe chest pains. His legal team requested a delay in the Senate proceedings, but this was rejected, leading to a walkout by his lawyers in protest.

President William Ruto, who has had a strained relationship with Gachagua in recent months, has yet to comment on the impeachment. Some Kenyans view the process as politically motivated, suggesting it may be a distraction from recent anti-tax protests that shook the country.

Political analysts warn that the impeachment could have broader political consequences. Karuti Kanyinga of the University of Nairobi suggests that the intense scrutiny of Gachagua’s financial dealings could prompt further calls for transparency regarding President Ruto’s actions.

Despite the Senate’s decision, Gachagua has condemned the impeachment as a “political lynching,” asserting that the accusations are baseless. The fallout from this historic event is likely to intensify political tensions in Kenya, which is already facing economic challenges and public discontent.

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA) Resource Centre has raised an alarm over corrupt practices within Nigeria’s judiciary, warning that these issues pose a serious threat to the nation’s democracy and unity.

Chairman of HEDA, Mr. Olanrewaju Suraju, made this assertion in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital, while addressing stakeholders at the 37th Anti-Corruption Situation Room (ACSR), themed “Addressing Corruption in the Judiciary and Providing Effective Strategies for Transparency and Accountability.”

Suraju noted that although discussions around corruption in the judiciary have persisted for years, they have grown louder recently due to conflicting judgments from courts of concurrent jurisdiction. He emphasized that issues such as the manipulation of election-related cases and the use of bribes to influence judicial decisions have compromised the integrity, accountability, and transparency of the judicial process, ultimately hindering democratic progress.

“The National Bureau of Statistics’ (NBS) 2024 Corruption Survey, released in July 2024, made alarming revelations about corruption in the judiciary,” Suraju said. “The report indicated that roughly $1.23 billion (N721 billion) was paid as bribes to public officials in 2023, with a significant portion allegedly paid to judicial officers. This is especially troubling given the judiciary’s critical role in maintaining stability and protecting citizens from abuses of power, particularly the common man.”

Suraju further highlighted the recent directive by the House of Representatives for its Committee on Constitutional Review to investigate Nigeria’s judicial system. “If the judiciary becomes accessible only to those with deep pockets, our democracy is in grave danger,” he warned.

In response to the crisis, HEDA and its partners convened the 37th ACSR to address the growing threat of corruption in the judiciary. Suraju reiterated that the judiciary, as the “last hope of the common man,” must uphold the highest standards of accountability, transparency, integrity, and ethics.

“We have gathered important stakeholders to discuss this critical issue and, over the course of this two-day event, aim to produce actionable solutions to save the judiciary and, by extension, Nigeria’s democracy and unity,” he added.

In his welcome address, Danilo Campisi, Deputy Country Representative of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), represented by Princess Chiferio, commended HEDA for organizing the event. He stressed that strategies to address corruption in the judiciary must focus on improving the lives of citizens, as the progress of any government is reflected in the experiences and perceptions of its people.

“Events like these highlight Nigeria’s commitment to anti-corruption efforts, a key priority of the government’s renewed hope agenda. The progress made towards implementing the national anti-corruption strategy and other sub-national initiatives demonstrates this commitment,” Campisi stated.

The two-day event aims to explore the challenges facing the judiciary and develop evidence-based recommendations and action plans, which will be presented to the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Hon. Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun (GCON), for implementation.

Political Parties under the umbrella of the Inter Party Advisory Council (IPAC) have bemoaned the rising cost of living in the country, attributing this development as a significant factor behind the increasing cases of voter apathy during elections.

IPAC National Chairman, Yusuf Mamman Dantalle, stated this on Thursday in Abuja at the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) fourth quarterly consultative meeting with leaders of political parties.

The parties also urged stakeholders to “stop using the Judiciary to make a mockery of our hard-earned democracy.”

“After 25 years of unbroken democracy, the state of the nation is sour. Nigerians are disillusioned. The rising cost of living and political tension have dampened citizens’ morale in the electoral process, resulting in low voter turnout in elections.

“Citizens’ participation in elections is critical for sustainable democracy, as power resides in the people. The need to create an environment conducive to successful elections, political stability, economic growth, and public safety cannot be overemphasized.

“IPAC urges governments at all levels to improve the people’s wellbeing in tandem with Section 14(2)(b) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999, as amended, which provides that the security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government. Urgent steps should be taken to ameliorate the hardship millions of Nigerians are facing today. This will spur their political participation and give more credence to the electoral process,” he stated.

According to IPAC, Nigerians expect INEC to improve on the forthcoming governorship election in Ondo State. The council urged stakeholders in the electoral process to join in voter education, sensitization, and mobilization to ensure a free, fair, credible, transparent, inclusive, and peaceful election that will meet international standards.

Dantalle emphasized that the commission must put its act together, provide adequate electoral materials, and test-run its BVAS and IReV portal to avoid undue technical hitches and glitches that could cast doubts on the integrity of the election.

Apparently miffed by obvious conflicting judgments from the courts, the Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has invoked God’s judgment on some judges who allegedly collect “bribes” to twist justice.

Governor Fubara spoke at the opening of the 2024/2025 Legal Year and Re-Dedication Service at the Cathedral Church of St. Paul’s, Anglican Communion, in Diobu, Port Harcourt, on Thursday.

The governor took a swipe at some legal luminaries who, in his view, have compromised their integrity to please their paymasters. He said, “Some of you, you say you are legal luminaries. You know the truth, but you will go on air just to pacify your paymasters to turn the law upside down.”

Fubara emphasized that issues concerning the administration of governance fall within the jurisdiction of the State High Court, regardless of involvement from agencies like INEC or the Police. He stated, “I am not a lawyer, but I know that one. And you stand and say you are doing the right thing? God will judge you.”

The governor asserted that judges represent God within the justice system and must dispense justice rightly without fear or favor. He warned that court judgments have far-reaching implications and urged judges to exercise great care in their rulings.

“Let me say it here so that you will understand: Judges, you are the God that we are seeing. Your position is to stand and defend us. Your position is to look at whoever and tell the person the truth. Because if you don’t do it here, you will have a big question to answer. The preacher said it, every evil done in the course of administering justice, you will pay for it dearly.”

Governor Fubara applauded the Rivers State Judiciary, particularly the High Court Divisions, for their support that has contributed to the continuity of his administration despite calculated antagonisms.

A delegation of retired senior police officers, led by DIG Maigari Dikko (rtd.), visited the Police Service Commission (PSC) on Wednesday, October 16, 2024, to request urgent intervention in addressing their poor retirement benefits and the perceived neglect of retired officers.

The delegation, comprising members of the Police College Ikeja 1986 Cadet ASP Course 14, voiced concerns about the deteriorating state of the police force. They lamented that too many active police officers are being deployed to private homes, leaving public spaces inadequately secured.

In a statement from PSC spokesman, Ikechukwu Ani, the delegation highlighted significant disparities in pension entitlements: “The visitors lamented that many retired Commissioners of Police currently receive around N73,000 as monthly pensions, while their military counterparts are paid upwards of N300,000.” They warned that this disparity could pose a serious security risk if left unaddressed, noting that in many countries, pension entitlements for the military and police are aligned.

The delegation also urged the Federal Government to withdraw police officers from private homes to reinforce public security, claiming that land grabbers and private individuals misuse these officers to intimidate and harass opponents.

PSC Chairman, DIG Hashimu Argungu (rtd.), who received the delegation alongside newly appointed Hon. Commissioner DIG Taiwo Lakanu (rtd.), pledged the Commission’s commitment to improving conditions for both serving and retired police officers. He assured the visiting team that the PSC would work to restore the dignity and welfare of retired officers, including exploring ways to improve their retirement benefits.

DIG Argungu further mentioned plans to engage retired officers in the PSC’s Quality Assurance Unit, allowing them to utilize their experience to enhance the management of police personnel. He encouraged the officers to take advantage of opportunities for their children to join the force through the Police Academy in Wudil, Kano, or via direct recruitment.

DIG Lakanu assured his former colleagues that they now have a new home at the PSC, stating, “We are course mates, we will remain close friends, and together, we will make this place better.” He added that the Commission would consider advocating for improved retirement benefits for retired police officers.

Other notable members of the delegation included DIG Abdulmajid Ali (rtd.), AIG U.U. Shehu Ambursa (rtd.), and AIG Alapini (rtd.).

Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State has called on the federal government to reassess its current monetary and fiscal policies, asserting that they are not effectively addressing the challenges facing Nigerians.

Speaking at the launch of the Nigeria Development Update in Abuja, the governor emphasized the urgent need for a change in approach, as the prevailing economic hardships are increasingly impacting ordinary citizens. He warned that the situation has become so dire that even public officials like himself are at risk of being lynched by frustrated citizens.

“When the reforms started, the sub-nationals supported the President. But now, the macroeconomic policies causing inflation need to be reconsidered. There is hunger, people are suffering, and Nigerians are not benefiting from these reforms,” Governor Mohammed stated.

He urged the federal government to implement more effective economic strategies, highlighting that the current financial support is insufficient to combat widespread hunger. “What are you doing to reduce hunger? We must help the people cope,” he added.

Governor Mohammed further lamented the drastic decline in the purchasing power of the people and stressed the need for policy adjustments. “My brother Cardoso, these policies are not working. They need to be reviewed. Let’s not resort to blackmail,” he said.

Addressing the critical issue of electricity, the governor criticized the high tariffs, noting that they are unaffordable for many citizens. “We are on the brink of being lynched. These policies are not working. We must review them,” he concluded.

Director General of the Presidential Campaign Council (PCC) of the Action Democratic Party (ADP), Erelu Kemi Elebute-Hally, along with some national leaders of the defunct Progressive Peoples Alliance (PPA), have officially collapsed their structures into the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

During a reception for the defectors at the APC National Secretariat on Thursday in Abuja, APC National Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, assured the leaders of equal opportunities within the party.

Ganduje noted the significance of the defection, highlighting the incorporation of over 7,000 ADP members from Ekiti State and thousands of others nationwide. He emphasized that Elebute-Hally’s experience as a former Governorship candidate in Ekiti State would be invaluable.

Elebute-Hally explained that her decision to join the APC was driven by a recognition of the need to support the ongoing reforms of President Bola Tinubu, which she acknowledged may be painful in the short term but would ultimately lead to positive outcomes. “We have been on this matter and deliberated for two years, writing to our various parties that we were going to defect, which we did on October 7 this year,” she stated.

She further revealed that this defection includes chieftains from the ADP, Social Democratic Party, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and the PPA.

Additionally, a former Deputy National Chairman, North, of the PPA, Mohammed Inua Haruna, remarked that although the national chairman of his party had joined another party, the national and state structures remained intact and had tasked him with finding a suitable party for them.

Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has publicly invoked divine judgment on judges who allegedly accept bribes to manipulate justice. This statement was made during the opening of the 2024/2025 Legal Year and Re-Dedication Service at the Cathedral Church of St. Paul, Anglican Communion, Diobu, Port Harcourt, on Thursday.

Fubara condemned legal professionals who compromise their integrity, asserting that some judges distort the law in favor of their “paymasters.” He expressed, “Some of you, claiming to be legal luminaries, know the truth but still go on air to pacify your paymasters, twisting the law upside down… God will judge you.”

The governor emphasized the role of judges as representatives of God within the justice system, urging them to deliver judgments without fear or bias. He highlighted the significant implications of court rulings, stating that judges must exercise great care in their decisions. “Judges, you are the God we see. Your position is to stand and defend us, to tell the truth to whoever comes before you,” he said.

Despite facing calculated antagonisms against his administration, Fubara expressed gratitude to the Rivers State Judiciary, particularly the High Court Divisions, for their unwavering support. He acknowledged that many judicial officers have encountered threats, physical assaults, and frivolous petitions aimed at intimidating them into submission.

The governor encouraged judges to remain steadfast and resist pressures to compromise justice, asserting, “Be courageous. Very soon, this whole thing will be over. Nothing lasts forever.”

Fubara also underscored the importance of strong institutions in promoting democracy and good governance. He pointed out that institutional strength is vital for the country’s development, questioning, “If I were a businessman, why would I invest in Nigeria when I see that individuals are stronger than institutions?”

In a sermon delivered during the service, Rt. Rev. Wisdom Budu Ihunwo, Bishop of the Diocese of Niger Delta North, warned that Nigeria is on the brink of collapse due to inconsistent court rulings. He noted that conflicting judgments from courts of coordinate jurisdiction have deepened the country’s crisis, undermining leadership and unity. Bishop Ihunwo criticized the judiciary’s incoherence, asserting that it compromises governance and leaves Nigerians as needless victims of a broken justice system.

The recent disclosure by the Nigerian Central Securities Clearing System (CSCS) regarding the alarming rate of cyber-attacks in the country highlights a significant challenge facing businesses today. With an average of 2,560 cyber-attacks occurring each week, the urgency for enhanced cybersecurity measures cannot be overstated.

Cybercrime is projected to cost the global economy over $10.5 trillion this year, up from $3 trillion in previous years. A 45% increase in ransomware attacks globally emphasizes the need for proactive cybersecurity strategies.

Haruna Jalo-Waziri, Managing Director/CEO of CSCS, emphasized that cybersecurity is a national priority that affects economic stability and public trust. It’s not just an IT issue but requires a collective understanding and action.

The conference theme, “Cybersecurity: Synergizing Artificial Intelligence and Infrastructure,” reflects the importance of integrating advanced technologies to combat cyber threats effectively. Protecting critical infrastructure is paramount as reliance on digital systems increases.

Vice President Kashim Shettima’s remarks underscore the necessity of robust cybersecurity for economic growth and stability, indicating that it should be a fundamental consideration for all sectors.

This situation calls for collaborative efforts among businesses, government agencies, and cybersecurity experts to enhance defenses against the growing tide of cybercrime. Implementing comprehensive cybersecurity policies, training, and awareness programs can significantly mitigate risks and protect the economic interests of the nation.

The Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) has distributed a total of N1.298 trillion among the Federal Government, State Governments, and Local Government Councils from the September 2024 Federation Account revenues.

In a statement released last night, Mr. Bawa Mokwa, Director of Press and Public Relations at the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation, detailed the sources of the distributable revenue. The total included N124.716 billion from statutory sources and N543.518 billion from Value Added Tax (VAT) collections.

Other contributions to the shared revenue came from the Electronic Money Transfer Levy (EMTL), which generated N18.445 billion, an Exchange Difference revenue of N462.191 billion, and an augmentation of N150 billion.

For September 2024, the total available revenue amounted to N2.258 trillion. Deductions for the cost of collection stood at N80.993 billion, while transfers, interventions, and refunds accounted for N878.946 billion.

The gross statutory revenue for September 2024 reached N1.043 trillion, which represents a decrease of N177.426 billion compared to the N1.221 trillion recorded in August 2024. Conversely, gross VAT revenue saw an increase to N583.675 billion in September, up by N10.334 billion from August’s N573.341 billion.

Of the N1.298 trillion distributed, the allocations were as follows:

• Federal Government: N424.867 billion
• State Governments: N453.724 billion
• Local Government Councils: N329.864 billion

Additionally, N90.415 billion, representing 13% of mineral revenue, was allocated to oil-producing states as derivation revenue.

From the N124.716 billion in distributable statutory revenue:

• Federal Government: N43.037 billion
• State Governments: N21.829 billion
• Local Government Councils: N16.829 billion
• Oil-producing states: N43.021 billion as derivation revenue.

In terms of the N543.518 billion VAT revenue:

• Federal Government: N81.528 billion
• State Governments: N271.759 billion
• Local Government Councils: N190.231 billion

Lastly, from the N18.445 billion generated from the EMTL, the allocations were:

• Federal Government: N2.767 billion
• State Governments: N9.222 billion
• Local Governments: N6.456 billion.

The Delta United Movement (DUM) has clarified that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) did not detain the immediate past governor of Delta State, Sen. Ifeanyi Okowa, contrary to recent reports suggesting otherwise. The political pressure group urged caution against the spread of fake news that could incite disharmony within the state.

In a statement issued on Thursday in Abuja, National Coordinator Nkem Onye expressed concern over the proliferation of false reports, particularly the recent claim regarding Okowa’s alleged detention.

“We are particularly troubled by the circulation of fake news, especially the claim that Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa was detained by the EFCC,” Onye stated. He further emphasized that their findings indicated Okowa was actually out of the country during the time of the purported three-day detention.

Onye noted, “This particular report aligns with the narrative of certain political actors in Delta who are intent on sowing discord and disrupting the ongoing MORE Agenda of the current government.”

He called on residents to remain vigilant regarding politically motivated reports that may arise from specific quarters aiming to create rifts among past and present leaders in the state.

While acknowledging that no individual is above accountability, Onye cautioned against malicious attempts to undermine political opponents. He stated, “We are increasingly concerned by the wave of negative media attacks targeting serving and former leaders in our state, designed to foster animosity among them.”

Onye attributed the media attacks to political figures seeking revenge after losing in electoral contests. He urged Delta residents to unite in promoting the state’s collective interests and prioritizing governance over political disputes.

“Political campaigns are over; let us focus on governance and the well-being of our state,” he concluded.

The Egbema Youth Political Forum (EGYPF) in Warri North and Ovia South West Local Government Areas, spanning Edo and Delta States, has praised Hon. Spencer Okpoye, the Commissioner representing the Ijaw Ethnic Nationality in the Delta State Oil Producing Area Development Commission (DESOPADEC), for his exceptional performance that surpasses expectations. The forum also issued a stern warning to mischief-makers to cease their ill-conceived efforts to tarnish Okpoye’s reputation.

In a statement released on Thursday, the Chairman of EGYPF, Barr. Ebigbagha S. Baidi, commended Okpoye for his diligent discharge of constitutional duties across the Ijaw ethnic nationality. He emphasized the need for support and recognition for Okpoye rather than unfounded criticisms from those allegedly sponsored by corporate interests.

“Hon. Spencer Okpoye is a committed leader who does not discriminate. He has played a pivotal role in facilitating the completion and commissioning of world-class infrastructure, including schools and a Town Hall in Ogulagha Kingdom. Instead of appreciation, he faces unfounded attacks,” Baidi stated.

He highlighted that Okpoye’s achievements within a few months are unparalleled compared to the entire tenures of some previous officeholders. “He will not be perturbed or distracted by cheap blackmail from political opportunists whose livelihoods depend on their corporate political paymasters,” he added.

The statement also emphasized that any further attempts to ridicule Hon. Spencer Okpoye would not be tolerated, as it is recorded that no Egbema indigene has ever published materials aimed at defaming any leader from the Ijaw ethnic nationality. The community holds respect for their leaders, regardless of their origins within Ijaw Nation.

The forum condemned a recent baseless publication by Williams Ayoromiegha Junior, Special Assistant to the Governor of Delta State on Security and Publicity Secretary of the Ogulagha Kingdom Youth Council.

“We condemn the said publication in its entirety and express concern over Amb. Princewill Binebai, the Spokesman of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide, who shared this publication through his online media platform, The Liberator Newspaper, and on his Facebook page,” the statement read.

The EGYPF urged Binebai to remember that the primary responsibility of the IYC Spokesman is to protect the interests of the Ijaw Nation, not to engage in misleading acts that unfairly target an Ijaw son in a significant leadership position. The forum called on the leadership of the IYC to address this issue and ensure that the interests of the Ijaw people are firmly upheld.

The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE), in collaboration with UNICEF and the Imo State Government, is organizing a two-day workshop aimed at enhancing the media’s role in driving regional development. Scheduled for October 23-24, 2024, in Owerri, the capital of Imo State, the event emphasizes the critical function of the media in addressing the socio-economic, political, and environmental challenges facing Nigeria’s South-East and South-South geopolitical zones.

According to a statement signed by NGE President Mr. Eze Anaba and General Secretary Dr. Iyobosa Uwugiaren, the workshop will feature 50 participants, including senior editors and media executives from print, electronic, and online platforms, as well as Guild members employed by governments across the nine states of the South-East and South-South zones.

The editors highlighted the complex socio-economic and environmental issues in the region, such as high poverty rates, infrastructural deficits, environmental degradation, and socio-political conflicts. They believe that the media possesses the capacity to play a vital role in mitigating these challenges by raising awareness, informing the public about pressing issues, amplifying marginalized voices, and providing information on social services, policies, and programs.

In commending the collaboration with the Imo State Government and UNICEF, the NGE emphasized the media’s significant impact on socio-economic and environmental matters, including influencing public opinion and policy, mobilizing community action, providing platforms for marginalized voices, facilitating dialogue and debate, and holding power holders accountable.

To effectively engage with these challenges, the editors proposed strategies such as collaborative reporting, data-driven journalism, social media engagement, investigative journalism, and solutions-focused reporting. They believe these approaches can substantially contribute to addressing the region’s socio-economic and environmental issues.

Chaired by renowned mass communication scholar and Deputy Vice Chancellor of Paul University, Awka, Prof. Stella Okunna, the workshop will feature presentations from experts and stakeholders. It aims to equip participants with enhanced skills for engaging with and reporting on the socio-economic and environmental challenges in the region.

Additionally, the workshop is designed to empower media professionals to create narratives that address the needs of vulnerable populations, particularly children. By collaborating with UNICEF and other stakeholders, participants will spotlight child-focused issues that can significantly improve overall regional development outcomes.

The event, themed “The Media as Partners in Regional Development,” will be officially opened by Imo State Governor Senator Hope Uzodinma, with co-hosts including NGE President Eze Anaba and the Head of UNICEF Office in Nigeria, Ms. Cristian Munduate.

In a letter to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, renowned human rights lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Femi Falana has urged for immediate legislative reforms to solidify the roles of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Offences Commission (ICPC) within the Nigerian Constitution.

The letter, titled “Urgent Legislative Attention on Constitutional Reforms Relating to Law Enforcement Agencies and Anti-Corruption Efforts,” stresses the need to eliminate legal controversies surrounding the agencies’ existence and empower them to more effectively combat corruption in the country.

Falana’s appeal follows recent debates, particularly from legal scholar Dr. Olisa Agbakoba, who questioned the constitutionality of the EFCC, asserting that the National Assembly exceeded its powers in establishing the agency, thus violating federalism principles. However, Falana countered these assertions by referencing multiple Supreme Court rulings that have affirmed the legality of the EFCC and its mandate to combat economic crimes at both federal and state levels.

He cited the landmark case of Attorney-General of Ondo State v Attorney-General of the Federation, where the Supreme Court validated the establishment of the ICPC, affirming the National Assembly’s authority to create bodies to combat corruption as per Section 15(5) of the 1999 Constitution. Additionally, he referred to the case of Nyame v Federal Republic of Nigeria, which established the EFCC’s constitutional right to investigate and prosecute individuals suspected of economic and financial crimes.

Falana urged the National Assembly to take advantage of ongoing constitutional reforms to enshrine the EFCC and ICPC in the Constitution, thereby safeguarding their functions from future legal challenges. He expressed concern over efforts by some state governments and officials to undermine these anti-corruption bodies, whether by questioning their authority or obtaining court injunctions to halt investigations and prosecutions.

“In light of the duty imposed on the State by Section 15(5) of the Constitution to abolish corrupt practices, it is imperative to safeguard the powers of the EFCC and ICPC as ‘common agencies’ of the people of Nigeria in combating corruption and financial crimes,” Falana stated.

The Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) and the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to facilitate the construction of more Smart Schools across the country. This initiative aims to target rural communities, establishing schools that leverage the latest technologies to enhance the learning process.

The MoU for the implementation of the NCDMB-UBEC Smart Schools Development Initiative (NUSSDI) was signed by UBEC Executive Secretary Dr. Hamid Bobboyi and NCDMB Executive Secretary Felix Omatsola Ogbe during an event held in Abuja.

Dr. Bobboyi expressed optimism about the collaboration, stating, “We are looking forward to the establishment of more smart schools. UBEC has already established about 37 smart schools in every state of the federation; seven of these are zones, some of which have started operating, while others are at advanced stages.”

He emphasized that the goal is not merely to create traditional schools equipped with chalkboards but to implement Smart Schools furnished with modern technology. “One of our key responsibilities here is to ensure that we can fully utilize the Digital Resource Center to train teachers,” he added.

Previously, UBEC has set up 37 Smart Schools—one in each state of the federation—designed to provide 21st-century education to Nigerian children. Currently, approximately 19 of these schools are operational, while others are nearing completion.

Dr. Bobboyi expressed excitement about the partnership, highlighting that while most Smart Schools established by the Commission are located in urban centers, this MoU emphasizes the establishment of schools in rural communities. He noted that this initiative is valuable for providing effective educational models in the sector.

Malam Nuhu Ribadu, the National Security Adviser (NSA), has strongly criticized corrupt personnel within security agencies for their detrimental impact on national security. During the Arms Destruction Exercise organized by the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (NCCSALW) at Muhammadu Buhari Cantonment in Giri, Abuja, he remarked on the severe consequences of security personnel engaging in corrupt practices, stating, “The worst human being is a policeman or a soldier who will take arms from his own formations and sell it or hide it out for bad people to come and kill his own colleagues.”

At the event on October 17, 2024, Ribadu highlighted that a large number of illicit arms used in criminal activities in Nigeria originate from government stockpiles. He attributed the proliferation of these weapons to corrupt elements within security agencies, who facilitate their transfer to non-state actors, including terrorists and bandits.

He called for immediate action to address this issue, emphasizing the need for decisive measures to recover the country and restore peace. Ribadu reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all Nigerians, stating, “If we want to recover our country and live in peace and stability, we have to take decisive steps.”

The NSA stressed the significance of the arms destruction exercise, which is part of ongoing efforts to combat arms proliferation in Nigeria. “By destroying unserviceable, obsolete, and recovered arms, we are demonstrating our commitment to a secure future for all Nigerians,” he added.

Retired DIG Johnson Kokumo, Director-General of NCCSALW, noted that this exercise was the third in a series since the center’s establishment and the first since he took command. He announced that over 2,400 illicit weapons, including unserviceable and decommissioned arms, would be destroyed during the event. Kokumo also emphasized the threat posed by the proliferation of small arms and light weapons (SALW) to peace and security in Nigeria and the West African sub-region, asserting that the destruction of these arms not only mitigates community risk but also sends a strong message against illegal trafficking and possession of firearms in Nigeria.

The event was attended by key military officials, including Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Christopher Musa, along with representatives from various security agencies, underscoring the collaborative effort required to tackle the challenge of arms proliferation.