In a recent statement issued by Sir Tersoo Kula, the Chief Press Secretary to Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, residents of Makurdi metropolis were warned against engaging in farming activities in their frontage. Instead, they were encouraged to plant flowers to enhance the town’s aesthetics and promote a peaceful environment.

Governor Alia highlighted the dual benefits of planting flowers: not only do they add vibrant colors and beauty to the surroundings, but they also have a calming effect on the mind, contributing to a more tranquil atmosphere. This aligns with the administration’s vision to create a visually appealing and serene urban landscape.

The directive serves as a reinforcement of earlier orders from the governor, emphasizing the importance of compliance. Those who persist in farming on empty plots of land or the frontage of their houses within Makurdi metropolis were urged to cease such activities promptly. Governor Alia stressed that failure to adhere to these instructions would prompt the government to take action to clear the unauthorized farms.

It was further clarified that residents who have properly fenced their plots may be allowed to farm within the enclosed areas. However, any farming activity outside of these designated spaces would not be tolerated.

Governor Alia’s administration is committed to beautifying the state capital, and farming activities within the city limits are viewed as detrimental to this goal. To enforce compliance, the governor warned that individuals caught farming on any portion of land in the state capital would be subject to questioning and potential repercussions.

This directive not only aims to enhance the visual appeal of Makurdi but also underscores the importance of urban planning and environmental aesthetics in fostering a conducive living environment for residents. By promoting flower planting over farming in urban areas, the government seeks to create a more pleasant and peaceful atmosphere conducive to the well-being of the community.

In his remarks, Mamman Mike Ousman, the Chairman of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), expressed skepticism regarding the ability of President Bola Tinubu to effectively address Nigeria’s myriad challenges within the span of one year. This statement was made during a press interaction on the sidelines of the ACF’s National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting in Kaduna.

Ousman acknowledged the considerable difficulties facing Nigeria upon Tinubu assuming office, highlighting the enormity of the task ahead. He emphasized that one year is a relatively short period for substantial transformation and resolution of the country’s deep-seated issues.

Despite this skepticism, Ousman commended Tinubu’s efforts in tackling pressing issues such as terrorism and banditry. He noted that Tinubu has been leveraging various government agencies, including the police and military, in addressing these challenges.

Furthermore, Ousman reiterated the ACF’s commitment to supporting Tinubu’s administration and contributing to the country’s development whenever called upon. He emphasized the importance of national unity and collaboration in addressing Nigeria’s challenges, stressing that support from all regions, particularly the 19 Northern states represented by the ACF, is crucial for the country’s progress.

Regarding the contentious issue of State Police, Ousman disclosed that the ACF had engaged with the House of Representatives on the matter. He mentioned that various groups had convened to discuss potential resolutions and amendments, with 15 thematic points already submitted to the National Assembly.

The NEC meeting, according to Ousman, aimed to advance the interests of the people in the Northern states within the framework of Nigerian sovereignty. This suggests that the ACF’s agenda includes promoting the welfare and aspirations of the Northern populace while ensuring national cohesion and progress.

Spain, Norway and Ireland have announced plans to formally recognize a Palestinian state, CNN reports.

According to the report, Irish Foreign Minister Micheál Martin said the recognition will come into force in all three countries on May 28.

This was announced on Wednesday by the Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris in a news conference in Dublin.

The report said the move is likely to bolster the global Palestinian cause but will certainly strain relations with Israel.

According to the Palestine Liberation Organization, Palestinian statehood has been recognized by more than 130 out of 193 member states of the United Nations.

“Today, Ireland, Norway and Spain are announcing that we recognize the state of Palestine. Each of us will now undertake whatever national steps are necessary to give effect to that decision,” Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris told a news conference in Dublin.

On his part, Norway’s Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre said the war in Gaza has “made it clear that achieving peace and stability must be predicted on resolving the Palestinian question.”

“In the midst of a war, with tens of thousands killed and injured, we must keep alive the only alternative that offers a political solution for Israelis and Palestinians alike: Two states, living side by side, in peace and security,” Støre said.

Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez said: “We will recognize the state of Palestine for peace, coherence and justice.

“This recognition is not against the people of Israel and certainly not against the Jews,” he said. “It’s not in favor of Hamas. It’s in favor of co-existence.”

In a significant legal development, Justice James Kolawole Omotoso of the Federal High Court in Abuja has granted former Deputy Governor of Edo State, Phillip Shaibu, permission to join the Speaker of the state assembly and the new Deputy Governor as defendants in his lawsuit challenging his impeachment. This decision marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing legal battle surrounding Shaibu’s impeachment and underscores the court’s recognition of the importance of involving all relevant parties in the legal proceedings.

Delivering his ruling on Wednesday, Justice Omotoso acknowledged the arguments put forth by Shaibu’s counsel, Ayotunde Ogunleye SAN, who contended that both the Speaker and the new Deputy Governor are essential parties in the lawsuit. The judge concurred with this stance, emphasizing that the Speaker’s role is central to the impeachment process as outlined in Section 188 of the 1999 Constitution. As such, Justice Omotoso deemed it necessary for both the Speaker and the new Deputy Governor to be brought before the court to ensure that any orders issued would be legally binding on them.

Furthermore, Justice Omotoso dismissed objections raised by the Speaker and the Deputy Governor against the motion on notice, deeming them frivolous and without merit. In light of this, he invoked Order 17 Rule 1 of the Federal High Court and ordered that the Speaker and the Deputy Governor be joined as defendants in the lawsuit. This decision not only acknowledges the importance of their involvement but also ensures a comprehensive and fair adjudication of the matter.

Additionally, the court granted permission for the former Deputy Governor to amend his originating summons to reflect the inclusion of the Speaker and the Deputy Governor as the 9th and 10th defendants in the case. This amendment serves to formalize their participation in the proceedings and aligns with the court’s commitment to ensuring all relevant parties are properly represented.

As the legal process moves forward, the substantive hearing in the case has been scheduled for June 3, reflecting the judge’s directive for accelerated proceedings. This expedited timeline underscores the urgency and significance of the matter at hand, as well as the court’s commitment to delivering timely justice.

“Prof. Ali Pate, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, has highlighted the critical issue of excess salt and sodium intake among Nigerians, emphasizing the severe health consequences associated with it. Speaking at a news conference in Abuja during the 2024 Salt Awareness Week, themed ‘It’s Time to Shine the Spotlight on Salt,’ Prof. Pate, represented by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Ms. Daju Kachollom, underscored the need for increased public awareness regarding the dangers of excessive salt consumption.

Pate expressed concern over the significant contribution of excess sodium consumption to cardiovascular diseases, particularly hypertension, which is a prevalent health issue in Nigeria. He revealed that up to 10% of cardiovascular disease deaths in the country can be attributed to the burden of excess sodium intake. Additionally, he cited varying estimates of the average daily intake of dietary sodium among Nigerian adults, which ranged from 2.3 to 10 grams per day, surpassing the World Health Organization’s recommended daily intake of 2 grams of sodium and 5 grams of salt.

Highlighting the importance of reducing sodium intake for controlling blood pressure and preventing hypertension and cardiovascular diseases, Pate stressed that salt is often a hidden adversary in people’s diets. He emphasized the role of dietary choices and habits in contributing to the escalation of health risks associated with high salt intake, cautioning that Nigeria is not immune to the global epidemic of hypertension and heart diseases.

Pate referenced a WHO report indicating that approximately 17.9 million lives are lost annually due to the impact of salt intake on conditions such as high blood pressure, heart attack, and stroke. Moreover, he emphasized the potential for significant healthcare savings through the implementation of sodium reduction strategies, which could prevent costly medical treatments for diseases caused by high sodium intake.

Overall, Prof. Ali Pate’s remarks underscore the urgent need for Nigerians to be mindful of their salt consumption, advocating for greater public awareness and policy measures to address this pressing public health issue.”

Chadian Prime Minister Succes Masra on Wednesday submitted his resignation to the newly elected junta chief Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno.

This is coming two weeks after he lost the presidential elections to the junta.

The PM confirmed this in a post on his Facebook page, which was authenticated by his team to AFP.

“I’ve just submitted my resignation and that of the transitional government, which became irrelevant with the end of the presidential election,” Masra said.

Recall that the 40-year-old Deby was proclaimed transitional president in April 2021 by a junta of 15 generals after his father, iron-fisted president Idriss Deby Itno, had been shot dead by rebels after 30 years in power.

According to the final results, he won the May 6 presidential vote with 61 percent of the ballot.

Masra, who was once a fierce Deby opponent before becoming prime minister four months ago, won 18.5 percent of the vote but contested the results.

The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, disclosed that the South East Development Commission (SEDC) Bill, recently passed through the third reading in both the Green Chambers and the Senate, will soon be ready for transmission to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his assent. Kalu made this known during a meeting with the Directors of the Institute for Peace, Security, and Development Studies (IPSDS) of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, led by their Co-Chairman, Chief Chikwe Udensi, at his office in Abuja.

He explained that the bill is currently at the Conference Committee stage for the concurrence of both chambers of the National Assembly on its sections and provisions. The Deputy Speaker highlighted the significance of the bill, emphasizing that it aims to address the infrastructural challenges in the South East region, particularly in the aftermath of the civil war.

Kalu expressed gratitude to the Institute for their willingness to collaborate with the Peace In South East Project (PISE-P), an initiative he co-founded to promote peace and development in the region. He stressed the importance of non-kinetic approaches to addressing insecurity, advocating for investments in infrastructure, healthcare, and education as alternatives to military interventions.

In response, the Co-Chairman of IPSDS, Chief Chikwe Udensi, expressed the Institute’s commitment to supporting Kalu’s efforts in achieving peace and development in the South East. He highlighted the vital role of security in facilitating development, emphasizing the need for collaboration to ensure the success of the project.

The meeting concluded with a mutual agreement to work together towards achieving peace, security, and sustainable development in the South East region. Both parties acknowledged the importance of research and evidence-based solutions in addressing the root causes of conflict and insecurity, and pledged to collaborate closely to implement effective strategies.

“Senator Ezea and Others Urge Governor Mbah to Suspend Planned Demolition of Ogige Nsukka Market”

Senator Ezea, alongside other concerned stakeholders, has called on Governor Mbah to halt the proposed demolition of Ogige Nsukka Market. This plea comes amidst growing concerns over the potential adverse effects of the demolition on traders and the local community.

The call to suspend the planned demolition was made in response to fears that the action could disrupt the livelihoods of traders and exacerbate economic challenges in the area. Senator Ezea and his allies emphasized the need for careful consideration and consultation before any decision is made regarding the market’s fate.

By urging Governor Mbah to halt the demolition, Senator Ezea and other stakeholders are advocating for a more inclusive and transparent approach to addressing the issues surrounding Ogige Nsukka Market. Their efforts reflect a commitment to safeguarding the interests of traders and ensuring that any proposed changes are implemented with the welfare of the community in mind.

“Jigawa State Hisbah Board Hindered by Funding Constraints, Committee Finds”

Inadequate funding has been identified as a major obstacle affecting the efficiency of the Jigawa State Hisbah Board, according to a report by DAILY POST. This revelation emerged from a committee established by Governor Umar Namadi to evaluate the operations of the Hisbah Board in the state.

Alhaji Bala Ibrahim, the chairman of the review committee and also the Secretary to the State Government, highlighted deficiencies in the existing legal framework as a contributing factor to the operational challenges faced by the Hisbah Board. The committee’s primary focus was on reviewing the legal framework governing the Hisbah operations, with the aim of either maintaining or revising the existing laws.

Among the key findings of the committee’s report was the insufficient number of personnel within the Hisbah workforce, which currently stands at 1,700 statewide. This inadequacy has hampered the Board’s ability to effectively carry out its mandate. To address this issue, the report recommended increasing the number of personnel to 4,600. Additionally, the committee emphasized the importance of providing adequate funding to bolster the operations of the Hisbah Board.

Upon receiving the report, Governor Namadi acknowledged the significance of the committee’s work, describing it as one of the most important committees established by the government in the state. He expressed confidence that implementing the recommendations outlined in the report would lead to the establishment of the best Hisbah Board in the country.

Governor Namadi commended the committee members for their dedication and pledged to prioritize the implementation of the report’s recommendations. He reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring the credibility and effectiveness of the Hisbah Board in Jigawa State.

“Female Inmates in Nigerian Correctional Centres Rose by 4.82% in 2022: NBS Report”

The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) released its Statistical Report on Women and Men in Nigeria 2022 in Abuja, revealing a 4.82% increase in the percentage of female inmates admitted into Nigerian correctional centres in 2022.

The report outlined that in 2020, the percentage of females admitted stood at 4.90%, which decreased to 4.48% in 2021, before rising to 4.82% in 2022. Meanwhile, male inmates accounted for 95.10%, 95.52%, and 95.18% in 2020, 2021, and 2022, respectively.

Both men and women were predominantly convicted for stealing, with the number of men convicted decreasing from 40,555 in 2020 to 31,921 in 2021, before increasing to 44,477 in 2022. Similarly, the number of women convicted for stealing decreased from 1,981 in 2020 to 1,320 in 2021, and further to 1,272 in 2022.

The report highlighted a decline in bank fraud, noting that there were no arrests or convictions in 2021, but an increase in the number of arrests in 2022.

In terms of drug-related offences, male suspects accounted for 90% of all arrests, while female suspects ranged from 7.35% to 7.62% between 2020 and 2022.

Regarding trafficking, the percentage of females trafficked for forced labour decreased from 64.87% in 2020 to 59.14% in 2022. Additionally, the report revealed an increase in the percentage of women aged 15 to 49 who experienced physical violence since age 15, rising from 27.80% in 2013 to 31% in 2018.

The report also highlighted that 8.20% of females aged 0 to 14 had been circumcised in Nigeria in 2021, and the percentage of females aged 26 to 35 trafficked decreased from 87.86% in 2020 to 71.09% in 2022.

Adeyemi Adeniran, the Statistician-General of the Federation, emphasized that the report analyzed gender equality across various domains, aiming to support policies and programs enhancing equal rights, responsibilities, and opportunities for women and men in Nigeria.