The girl was sexually assaulted while trying to recover her phone which was stolen by some suspected criminals.

The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) says it will follow to the end and ensure justice for the 17-year-old girl allegedly defiled by a police officer at Ogudu Police Station.

As the October Local Government election in Akwa Ibom State nears, tension is rising in the Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area. The opposition All Progressive Congress (APC) has made a strategic move by zoning the chairmanship position to Ikot Ekpene Urban Clan. This decision was announced during a significant meeting held at Chief Sunny Ibanga’s residence in Utu Ikot Ekpenyong, attended by key party figures, including Chief Sunny Ibanga, Pastor Sunny Ibuot, Special Assistant to the Senate President on Protocol Kufre Okure, the Chapter Chairman, Ward Chairmen, and various chairmanship and councillorship aspirants. Councillorship aspirants also obtained their nomination forms at this meeting.

This strategic zoning has raised concerns within the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), which is dealing with unresolved zoning disputes. The minority Amanyam people, with a voting strength of 29,000, are advocating for the chairmanship to be zoned in their favor, arguing that the Urban Clan held the last chairmanship. On the other hand, the Urban Clan, with a voting strength of 62,000, is pushing for inclusivity, pointing out that the Amanyam people already hold the House of Assembly seat and commissionership.

Political analysts are closely monitoring this development, viewing the APC’s decision as a potential game-changer. If the PDP does not resolve its internal zoning issues, the APC might capitalize on this situation by aligning with the majority Urban Clan, potentially securing a victory in the upcoming election.

During a plenary session on Wednesday, Senate President Godswill Akpabio read a letter titled “Complaints Against the Unbecoming Utterances of Sen. Ali Ndume,” sent by Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC). The letter announced the replacement of Sen. Ali Ndume, who represents Borno South (APC-Borno), as the Chief Whip of the Senate. He was replaced by Sen. Mohammed Monguno, who represents Borno North (APC-Borno).

After a week-long operation, troops of Operation Safe Haven and the III Division of the Nigerian Army in Rukuba, near Jos, captured seven suspects and recovered various arms and ammunition in the Fann District of Barkin-Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State. Maj. Aliyu Danja, Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, detailed the operation, noting that it took place between July 10 and June 16.

The operation began with an attack on a tactical team at a gunrunners’ hideout in Sangasa community, resulting in the death of Assistant Superintendent of Immigration, Christopher Agwom. In response, troops conducted a follow-up operation across Ratas, Ratoso, and Sangasa communities.

Recovered weapons included:
– 6 AK-47 rifles
– 16 locally fabricated AK-47 rifles
– 15 Dane guns
– 5 AK-47 magazines
– 1 AK-47 drum magazine (75-round capacity)
– 250 rounds of 7.62 mm (Special)
– 2 cartridges
– 7 motorcycles

Maj. Danja also declared four individuals wanted by security agencies: Timothy Dung (Timaya), Sam P, Dachun Job, and Yakubu Ishaku. He assured citizens that the efforts to eliminate criminal activities in the area would continue, honoring the sacrifice of the slain officer, who was buried in his hometown of Risek, Jos East local government area, on Tuesday.

The Police Command in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has announced a ban on the procession of the proscribed Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN), also known as Shi’ite, to mark the 2024 Islamic calendar day of Ashura in Abuja. This decision was conveyed through a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, on Tuesday in Abuja.

The ban was justified on grounds of intelligence indicating that members of the IMN were planning a procession. The police cited past incidents where such gatherings led to disturbances, anarchy, and chaos in the territory.

SP Josephine Adeh emphasized that any individual associated with the proscribed organization or intending to participate in protests or processions should desist from doing so. The command vowed to employ all legal means necessary to prevent and neutralize any violations of the ban, emphasizing its commitment to maintaining law and order and safeguarding public safety.

The statement underscores the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to manage public security and prevent potential disruptions during sensitive periods like religious observances.

Dr. Allen Onyema, the Chief Executive Officer of Air Peace Limited, recently addressed the importance of national unity and solidarity among Nigerians during a lecture titled “Leading by Example: Instilling Trust and Confidence in Subordinates” at the Armed Forces Command and Staff College (AFCSC), Jaji. He emphasized the need for Nigerians to prioritize nationalism over ethnic and religious divisions for the country’s progress.

Onyema highlighted the significant role of the Nigerian military in maintaining national unity and security, urging citizens to appreciate their sacrifices. He expressed confidence in Nigeria’s potential, describing it as a nation of strength and diversity with 378 ethnic nationalities contributing positively to its development.

The Air Peace CEO cautioned against allowing external stigma to define Nigeria, emphasizing the country’s rich human and natural resources. He called for unity among Nigerians, emphasizing that embracing diversity would pave the way for a prosperous future.

Onyema’s lecture was well-received by course participants at AFCSC, with the Commandant, AVM Hassan Alhaji, acknowledging the importance of such engagements in fostering national unity and preparing military personnel to serve the nation effectively.

Former President Donald Trump made a dramatic return to the political spotlight at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, following a failed assassination attempt. Trump, sporting a bandaged right ear from the incident, was greeted with hero-like adulation as he entered the Fiserv Forum arena. This marked his first public appearance since the attempt on his life.

During the convention, Trump secured the formal nomination as the Republican presidential candidate for the 2024 election. In a surprising move, he announced Senator J.D. Vance as his running mate. Vance, a 39-year-old former critic of Trump who has since become a staunch supporter, was introduced to the cheering crowd, signaling a significant endorsement of Trump’s America First agenda.

Vance, known for his alignment with populist sentiments and conservative views, particularly on issues like immigration and abortion, represents a new wave of leadership within the Republican Party. Despite his relative lack of experience in national politics, Vance’s nomination underscores Trump’s strategy to appeal to a broad base of conservative voters ahead of the election.

Trump’s return to the forefront of Republican politics comes amidst a challenging landscape for President Joe Biden and the Democratic Party, with concerns over Biden’s health and declining poll numbers. As Trump prepares to deliver his acceptance speech later in the convention, his candidacy continues to shape the dynamics of the upcoming presidential race in 2024.

The New-Hydropower Areas Development Commission (N-HYPADDEC) has completed the long-awaited upgrade of the New Bussa Waterworks in Niger State, a project that had been ongoing for nearly seven decades. The completion was confirmed by Alhaji Abubakar Sadiq-Yelwa, the Managing Director of N-HYPADDEC, during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Minna.

Sadiq-Yelwa highlighted the significance of the project, which aims to provide potable water to the community. He mentioned that the project will be inaugurated on July 30th, allowing the people to finally benefit from clean and safe drinking water.

Additionally, N-HYPADDEC has continued its efforts in constructing hand pumps and solar-powered boreholes across the states under its jurisdiction. This initiative is dependent on available resources and aims to improve water access in these areas.

Furthermore, the commission has taken steps to enhance waterway safety by clearing water routes prone to accidents caused by obstructions like trees. Collaborating with NIWA (National Inland Waterways Authority), N-HYPADDEC plans to replace local boats with more durable fibre boats and provide life jackets to mitigate risks and save lives in riverine communities.

Overall, N-HYPADDEC remains committed to executing projects that enhance community well-being, including school construction, borehole drilling, and resettlement housing schemes aimed at addressing local challenges like flooding. Their ongoing efforts underscore their dedication to improving infrastructure and livelihoods across their operational areas.

The relationship between Peter Obi and Wole Soyinka has deteriorated significantly due to political disagreements and mutual criticisms. Here’s a breakdown of what went wrong:

1. **Initial Admiration**: In 2023, Peter Obi publicly admired Wole Soyinka for his contributions to justice and equity in Nigeria, considering him a father figure whose sacrifices should be acknowledged.

2. **Political Friction Begins**: Tensions arose after the 2023 elections when Obi’s running mate, Datti Baba-Ahmed, contested the victory of Bola Tinubu, claiming there was no president-elect. This statement sparked controversy, with Soyinka condemning it as undemocratic.

3. **Soyinka’s Criticism**: Soyinka’s criticism of Obi’s party and supporters, labeled as “Obidients,” intensified the rift. He viewed them as fostering fascism and criticized their conduct, which further strained relations.

4. **Visitation and Rejection**: In an attempt to mend relations, Obi visited Soyinka, but the literary icon rejected the gesture, stating he couldn’t relate to the “Obidient” movement and accusing them of empty posturing.

5. **Further Public Remarks**: Soyinka publicly asserted that Obi did not win the 2023 election and criticized the Labour Party’s leadership for what he perceived as deception and ethnicization of the party.

6. **Mutual Disparagement**: The relationship worsened as Soyinka continued to criticize Obi’s leadership and expressed doubts about his fitness for future leadership roles.

7. **Non-celebration of Soyinka’s Birthday**: Recently, Peter Obi notably did not join other statesmen in celebrating Wole Soyinka’s 90th birthday publicly, which underscores the extent of the strained relationship.

Overall, political differences, public criticisms, and mutual disparagement have soured the once-admiring relationship between Peter Obi and Wole Soyinka, leading to a clear estrangement between the two leaders.

The Kano State Government has filed a fresh charge against former Governor Abdullahi Ganduje and erstwhile Commissioner for Justice Musa Lawan. Here are the key details from the case:

1. **Nature of Charges**: The charge sheet, numbered K/143c/24, accuses Ganduje and Lawan of Criminal Conspiracy and misappropriation, offenses that contravene Section 308 and punishable under Section 309 of the Penal Code (as amended) CAP 105, Vol. 2, Laws of Kano State.

2. **Specific Allegations**: The state government alleges abuse of office against Ganduje and Lawan, specifying violations under Section 97 and Section 315 of the law.

3. **Legal Proceedings**: The state government intends to present four witnesses in support of its case. However, no date has been set yet for the arraignment of the accused.

4. **Previous Legal Actions**: Earlier, on April 4, the state government had filed a suit involving Ganduje, his wife Hafsat Umar, and six others before a State high court. The defendants, including Ganduje’s son and several companies, pleaded not guilty, and the court reserved judgment on preliminary objections.

5. **Court Proceedings**: During subsequent hearings, Justice Amina Aliyu expressed concern over the defendants’ failure to appear in court despite being served with a substitute means of service. The prosecution sought a bench warrant against Ganduje, his wife, and the other defendants.

The case underscores ongoing legal challenges involving high-profile figures in Kano State, highlighting allegations of financial misconduct and abuse of public office.

The Federal Government has assured Nigerians of the timely completion of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway Project, emphasizing that rainfall will not hinder progress. The project, spanning 700 kilometers and costing ₦4 billion per kilometer, is a flagship initiative under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

Key points from the assurance include:

1. **Commitment Despite Weather Challenges**: Despite heavy rainfall which can naturally slow down construction, the Federal Ministry of Works is committed to ensuring the project stays on schedule. Measures are in place to manage water levels and maintain progress.

2. **Contractor Diligence**: Contractors have been directed to work diligently to ensure the project meets its design and completion deadlines.

3. **Project Importance**: The highway is crucial for enhancing cross-country connectivity, promoting trade relations, and fostering economic development across Lagos, Ogun, Ondo, Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, and Akwa-Ibom states.

4. **Phased Completion**: The project will be completed in phases, with the first phase from Ahmadu Bello Way, Victoria Island to Lekki Phase 1 already completed by Hitech Construction Company.

5. **Geographical Coverage**: The highway will connect Victoria Island in Lagos to Calabar, the capital of Cross River State, passing through key locations like Oniru Beach, Landmark Beach, and Good Beach/Sol Beach.

The completion of this project is expected to significantly benefit the region by improving infrastructure and supporting economic growth and development.

The Borno State Government, under Governor Babagana Zulum, has announced scholarships for indigent students in various fields, particularly targeting undergraduate courses in Medicine (MBBS), Engineering, and the Chinese language in reputable institutions in China.

Here are the details for applying for these scholarships:

1. **Chinese Language Scholarship**:
– Candidates must have excellent results in arts subjects.
– The application portal is open until August 15.
– Applicants should be between 18 to 25 years old.

2. **Medicine (MBBS) and Engineering Scholarships**:
– For Medicine (MBBS): Applicants must pass English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics with a minimum of 75% in WAEC.
– For Engineering: Applicants must pass English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics with a minimum of 65% in WAEC.
– The detailed calculation for percentage requirements can be found on the scholarship website: www.scholarship.bo.gov.ng.
– The application portal is open until August 15.
– Applicants should be between 18 to 25 years old.

These scholarships aim to support talented and deserving students from Borno State in pursuing higher education in critical fields both domestically and internationally.

The Nigeria Police Force has announced the implementation of the digitalized Central Motor Registry (e-CMR), scheduled to commence enforcement on July 29. This initiative aims to enhance security, modernize motor vehicle registration, and combat vehicle-related crimes such as terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and armed robbery.

Here are the steps required to apply for the e-Central Motor Registry:

1. **Visit the Website**: Go to https://cmris.npf.gov.ng/ and click on the apply icon.

2. **Create a Profile**: Use your National Identification Number (NIN), Driver’s License, or Tax Identification Number (TIN) to create a profile.

3. **Log In**: If you already have a profile, log in using your access credentials.

4. **Select CMR Request**: Choose the CMR request and then select a sub-request.

5. **Provide Vehicle Details**: Enter the required vehicle information and click Next.

6. **Confirm Details**: Check the box to confirm the accuracy of the vehicle details and click Proceed.

7. **Make Payment**: View the invoice and proceed to make payment using any available payment method.

8. **Confirmation**: Details of your request will be sent to your registered phone number and email address.

By following these steps, vehicle owners can comply with the new registration requirements and contribute to improving national safety and security infrastructure through the e-Central Motor Registry.

Gov. Uba Sani of Kaduna State has urged corps members to accept their postings in good faith, emphasizing that developmental services are needed more in rural communities. Sani, represented by the state’s Commissioner for Sports Development, Prof. Benjamin Gugong, made this statement at the closing ceremony of the 2024 Batch ‘B’ Stream 1 orientation course on Tuesday in Kaduna.


He appealed to the corps employers in the state to accept the corps members posted to their organizations, make them comfortable, and mentor them. Sani encouraged corps members to uphold the relationships they built during the orientation course and dedicate themselves fully to national service through community development projects.

“You should create more meaningful relationships during your service year, thereby promoting national integration and unity. Be security conscious, and respect the culture and traditions of your host communities. Respect the people that you will come across and do not look down on them,” the governor said.

Sani also reiterated the state government’s commitment to ensuring the security and welfare of the corps members, recognizing the importance of youth as the future of the nation.

The State Coordinator of NYSC, Hassan Taura, also addressed the corps members, urging them to maintain the discipline they displayed during their stay in the camp. He warned them against night journeys and unauthorized travels outside the state and encouraged them to seek permission if they needed to travel.

“Take advantage of skills acquisition as post-camp training to become self-reliant. White-collar jobs are not readily available, so endeavor to be self-employed and, if possible, employers of labor,” Taura stated.

Taura thanked the state government for its support and commitment to the scheme, as well as all stakeholders, collaborating agencies, and camp officials for their contributions to the success of the orientation course.

A total of 71,291 candidates participated in the 2024 National Common Entrance Examination (NCEE) conducted in 599 centers on Saturday, June 1, 2024.

Lagos State came tops with the highest number of candidates, with 17,751, while FCT came second with 10,209 candidates, and Anambra State trailed in third position with 4,972 candidates.](https://www.gettyimages.com)

The federal government has released the 2024 National Examination Council (NECO) entrance exam results for Unity schools. Dr. Yusuf Sununu, the Minister of State for Education, announced this development during a press briefing at the ministry’s headquarters in Abuja.

He revealed that 71,291 students actively participated in the NCEE, with Lagos State having the highest number of candidates at 17,751. The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) followed with 10,209 candidates, and Anambra State came third with 4,972 candidates.

The Minister also disclosed that one candidate attained the top score of 203 out of a possible 210, while 13 candidates received the lowest score of 1. “This year, an unprecedented number of 52 candidates (2 candidates from Lagos State and 50 candidates from Rivers State) were involved in examination malpractice,” the Minister noted. He further mentioned that, as always, 60% of the admission process will be based on merit.

The detained Binance Holdings Limited executive, Tigran Gambaryan, was on Tuesday, whisked into the Federal High Court in Abuja in a wheelchair. Gambaryan, dressed in a black T-shirt and blue jeans, is facing a money laundering charge alongside the cryptocurrency firm. When the matter was called, Gambaryan stood up from the wheelchair and walked slowly into the dock.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC)’s lawyer, Ogechi Ujam, informed the court that although the matter was scheduled for the continuation of the trial, the commission’s lead counsel, Ekele Iheanacho, was not present. Ujam requested the court to stand down the matter to allow Iheanacho to conduct the trial. Babatunde Fagbohunlu, SAN, representing Binance (the first defendant), and Mark Mordi, SAN, representing Gambaryan, did not oppose the application. Justice Emeka Nwite stepped down the matter until noon.

Justice Nwite had previously ordered the management of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) to release Gambaryan’s medical certificate by July 16. The judge’s order followed an application by Gambaryan’s lawyer, Mordi, who requested the court to summon the medical doctor at Kuje Correctional Centre to explain the delay in providing his client’s medical report despite an earlier court order.

Gambaryan had collapsed in open court on May 23 due to alleged ill-health. The defence law firm, Aluko & Oyebode, had raised concerns on May 27 about Gambaryan’s deteriorating health, warning that he might die in Kuje Correctional Centre if his medical condition continued to worsen.

His Imperial Majesty, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, has once again demonstrated his commitment to Africa’s youth by announcing the winners of the prestigious Royal African Young Leadership Forum (RAYLF) Awards.

The annual awards ceremony, now in its fourth year, celebrated exceptional young Africans who are making significant contributions to their communities and the continent at large. This year’s honorees, a distinguished group of 100 young leaders from 40 African countries, were recognized for their outstanding achievements across various fields, including entrepreneurship, politics, advocacy, technology, healthcare, and social impact. The awards ceremony, themed “Africa of the Future: Better Together,” took place on July 12 and 13, 2024.

As a testament to their commitment to experiencing the pinnacle of African ingenuity, the RAYLF 2024 awardees embarked on a special tour of the Dangote Refinery in Lagos State, Nigeria. This state-of-the-art refinery, the largest single-train refinery in the world, has been hailed as a game-changer for Africa’s energy landscape. The awardees were met by the Director of Construction and the Vice President of the Dangote Group, who provided insights into the refinery’s groundbreaking technology and its potential to transform Nigeria’s economy. The tour underscored the continent’s growing capacity to undertake and complete mega-projects.

Next, the awardees visited Abeokuta, the capital city of Ogun State, where they held a town hall meeting with former President of Nigeria, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo. During the meeting, Obasanjo welcomed the young leaders and encouraged them to seek leadership positions to influence policies in their respective countries. Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State also pledged his support to the group and donated 200 original copies of Jonathan Paul Iv’s “Built.”

The tour continued to Ile-Ife, where the awardees were hosted at a welcome dinner by the Ooni of Ife. Among the guests at the dinner was Abubakar Abba Bello, CEO and Managing Director of the Nigerian Export-Import Bank (NEXIM), who announced that the bank would provide funding and export consultancy to one of the awardees involved in cassava starch extraction.

The official award ceremony began with the recitation of the national anthem, the Ife anthem, and the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) anthem. Special guests included the Minister of State for Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, the Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Jamila Bio Ibrahim, and the Director General of the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), Charles Odii.

Dr. Shola Owonikoko, the RAYLF president, delivered a speech extolling the vision of the Ooni of Ife and the impact of RAYLF on inspiring young Africans. Oba Ogunwusi then announced the founding of the Royal African Chamber of Commerce, which aims to create partnerships and networking opportunities for young African entrepreneurs.

The event also saw the launch of a ₦1 billion fund called Women Owned Micro Businesses (WOMB) by the Ooni of Ife and SMEDAN. Odii stated, “The project is an initiative envisioned by His Royal Majesty, the Ooni of Ife, to train, fund, mentor, and support female entrepreneurs across Nigeria with access to local, regional, and global markets. SMEDAN is committed to providing the ₦1 billion fund to support the WOMB project.”

The ceremony concluded with the awardees being fully inducted into the RAYLF and receiving their signed certificates.

The Federal Government of Nigeria has assured that it has no intention of handing over public universities to private investors. This clarification was made by the Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, during the Second Quarterly Engagement of the ministry with Heads of units and Chief Executive Officers of parastatals and agencies under the ministry.

Responding to concerns raised by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) about a purported plan to transfer federal universities to private investors through Public-Private Partnerships, Prof. Mamman refuted these claims. He emphasized that the government’s policy is focused on transnational education, which aims to open up Nigeria’s tertiary education system to global investment and participation.

Transnational education, according to Prof. Mamman, is about inviting people from around the world to invest in Nigeria’s tertiary institutions. This initiative is designed to enhance the quality and global competitiveness of Nigerian universities without selling them off to private entities. He noted that while the private sector plays a significant role in the provision of tertiary education, as evidenced by the number of private universities in the country, the government remains committed to its public institutions.

Prof. Mamman stressed the importance of allowing international universities to establish themselves in Nigeria, either independently or in collaboration with local institutions. This approach aims to raise educational standards and bring financial benefits to the country. He pointed out that countries in Asia have successfully leveraged international institutions to improve their educational standards and economic gains.

The minister highlighted that the engagement with heads of agencies and parastatals was to review progress, address challenges, and reaffirm the government’s commitment to enhancing the educational landscape in Nigeria.