Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has authorized the release of 56 inmates from various correctional facilities in the state, along with the conversion of one death sentence to life imprisonment and the granting of a pardon to another inmate. This decision was made based on the advice of the Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy and in accordance with Section 212 (1) (2) of the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria (as amended).

The statement issued by the state’s Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Lawal Pedro, SAN, highlighted that the Advisory Council meticulously reviewed each application for clemency, considering factors such as the nature of the offense, length of incarceration, age, health, and conduct of the inmates. The council’s recommendations were guided by established guidelines to ensure fairness and transparency in the decision-making process.

Governor Sanwo-Olu’s action aims to alleviate congestion in Lagos State correctional facilities as part of broader justice sector reforms. The release, commutation, and pardon orders were signed by the governor on June 25, 2024, underscoring the administration’s commitment to promoting justice and rehabilitation within the state’s correctional system.

The House of Representatives Committee investigating the increase in cement prices in Nigeria has taken a strong stance, emphasizing that no individual or entity, including Alhaji Aliko Dangote and Dangote Cement, is above parliamentary scrutiny. The committee has summoned Dangote Cement’s management to address concerns over alleged arbitrary price hikes. During a recent hearing, committee members expressed dismay over the impact of these price increases on Nigerians, emphasizing the need for fair pricing practices.

The committee has issued a stern warning, threatening to arrest Dangote Cement’s management if they fail to appear at the next hearing. They have also summoned other stakeholders, including the Cement Manufacturers Association of Nigeria and the Central Bank of Nigeria, to discuss possible measures to alleviate the burden of high cement prices on consumers.

The committee’s chair, Rep. Jonathan Gaza, underscored the parliament’s authority to hold accountable those who neglect the interests of Nigerian citizens, stating that legislative powers will be exercised if necessary to ensure compliance with their directives.

In a surprising turn of events, iconic rapper and music producer Kanye West has announced his retirement from music. The multi-award-winning artist made this revelation during a recent public appearance, sending shockwaves through the entertainment industry and his legion of fans worldwide.

“I’m retiring from music,” Kanye stated succinctly, marking the end of an era for one of the most influential figures in contemporary music. Known for his innovative approach to hip-hop and his boundary-pushing projects, Kanye’s career has been nothing short of legendary.

Spanning over two decades, Kanye’s influence in the music industry is unparalleled. From chart-topping albums to groundbreaking production techniques, his work has continually redefined the genre. Beyond music, Kanye has made significant strides in fashion, politics, and business, always staying in the public eye with his bold and often controversial statements.

This decision comes after a tumultuous period in Kanye’s personal and professional life, which has seen him navigate various challenges and controversies. In his announcement, Kanye hinted at a desire to shift focus towards his business ventures, philanthropic efforts, and personal growth.

While fans may feel a sense of loss at this announcement, it’s also a moment to reflect on the immense impact Kanye has had on the music world. His legacy includes not just his own prolific body of work, but also his influence on countless other artists and the broader cultural landscape.

As Kanye West steps away from music, the world will be watching closely to see what the next chapter holds for this multifaceted artist. His retirement marks the end of a significant era but also the beginning of new possibilities for one of the most dynamic figures in modern entertainment.

Popular Nigerian comedian and activist, Mr Macaroni, has voiced his disapproval of using connections to illegally detain citizens, emphasizing the need to seek justice through the court system. His comments come in response to claims that actress Toyin Abraham allegedly used the police to detain a man who defamed her.

Mr Macaroni took to X (formerly Twitter) on July 9, 2024, to stress the importance of following the legal process. He wrote, “If anyone insults you or defames your character, go to court and seek justice. APC trolls insult me and tell so many lies against my person. I have never for once used the police to illegally arrest or detain anyone and Never will I. There is serious danger in using the police to illegally detain citizens.”

He further warned against the misuse of power and the potential consequences, stating, “I hope those of you supporting this abuse of power won’t cry foul when you or your loved ones are the victims. To be clear, this is not to support online bullying and harassment. I strongly condemn it and believe that those involved should be made to face the consequences of their actions.”

Mr Macaroni highlighted the importance of adhering to the rule of law, adding, “But go to court and seek justice like the rest of us do. Don’t use your friends in government to illegally detain citizens. It may favour you now, but think about tomorrow when you no longer have that power or the closeness to that power. It might not be you, it might be someone you care about. What will become of us if everyone takes the law into their own hands?”

His comments followed reports that Toyin Abraham allegedly had a man and his mother detained by the police for defaming her on X. This led to backlash against the actress, with users criticizing her for purportedly using her connections to detain the man. Abraham responded to some of the users but later deleted her comments.

Mr Macaroni’s post garnered numerous reactions from fans and fellow X users, with one fan commenting, “Toyin Abraham dan go use police arrest person because of a mere tweet. Isn’t that the height of oppression?” Mr Macaroni responded, “It is not a ‘mere’ tweet if it defames her character. It is a crime and it is punishable by law. My point is that any aggrieved person should seek justice in a court of law and not use their connections with those in government to take the law into their own hands. – That is oppression.”

Amid the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State, Governor Siminalayi Fubara has been recognized for his significant contributions and leadership in key areas such as education, health, rural development, and urban renewal. Despite the heated feud with his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, and the resulting political turmoil, Governor Fubara has maintained peace and decorum in his leadership approach.

The Independent Monitors on Good Governance in Nigeria (IMGGN) have praised Governor Fubara for his transparency and accountability, highlighting his dedication to sustainable growth and development in the state. At a press conference in Port Harcourt, Okwa Dan, the group’s convener, commended Fubara for his commitment to even distribution of developmental efforts across Rivers State, including the hinterlands.

Dan noted that Fubara has ensured the provision of motorable roads, primary healthcare services, and other initiatives aimed at improving the lives of the people in the state. Despite the political issues, the governor’s sound leadership and dedication to development have garnered appreciation from the residents of Rivers State.

The House of Representatives has called for sanctions against Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), and six Area Council Chairmen for their insubordination and disregard for the House. Rep. Ikonne Ifeanyi of the House Committee on FCT Area Council and Ancillary raised this issue during a committee meeting in Abuja, stating that the Minister and the council chairmen’s refusal to appear before the House shows disrespect and lack of regard for the institution.

Rep. Ifeanyi criticized the Minister and the council chairmen for their arrogance and suggested that the House should not approve any requests from them until they show respect and honor the House’s invitations. He even proposed bringing the issue to the floor of the House to demand an explanation from those involved and suggested recommending Wike’s removal as FCT Minister if the situation does not improve.

Rep. Fredrick Agbedi, the chairman of the committee, expressed that the Minister and the council chairmen’s actions breach their constitutional responsibilities and undermine the committee’s oversight functions, which are crucial for ensuring accountability and good governance. Agbedi pointed out that despite receiving substantial monthly allocations, the six area council chairmen had not initiated, completed, or commissioned any significant projects.

Rep. Adesola Adebayo emphasized that the House of Representatives has the authority to oversee the activities of the council areas and that the council chairmen’s refusal to appear is an affront to the House. He suggested applying maximum pressure to ensure accountability.

The committee members discussed the need for the FCT Minister and the council chairmen to show up as requested, with some members, like Rep. Nurudeen Abbas, suggesting giving them one last chance to comply before taking further action. Rep. Sada Soli proposed breaking into a closed session to discuss the matter further.

The committee aims to ensure that the FCT Minister and the council chairmen fulfill their obligations and respect the legislative process.

The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has praised President Bola Tinubu for creating the Ministry of Livestock Development. Alhaji Baba Othman-Ngelzarma, President of MACBAN, highlighted that this ministry aims to unlock the trillion-naira livestock economy and create qualitative and productive jobs across the livestock value chain, ultimately improving the Nigerian economy.

Othman-Ngelzarma noted that the new ministry fulfills the promises made under Tinubu’s Renew Hope Agenda to raise the productive capacity of Nigerian agriculture and ensure food security. He expressed MACBAN’s longstanding advocacy for a standalone ministry to modernize livestock production in line with global best practices.

He pledged MACBAN’s support to the federal government in turning livestock production into a foreign exchange earner, reducing farmer-herder conflicts, and addressing related security challenges. The association, including its Chairman and members, along with the Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar III, congratulated President Tinubu on this historic development.

President Tinubu announced the creation of the Ministry of Livestock Development during the inauguration of the Renewed Hope Livestock Reform Implementation Committee at the Council Chambers of the State House in Abuja. Tinubu, who chairs the committee, appointed Prof. Attahiru Jega as the deputy or co-chair. The president emphasized the unique opportunity to develop the economy and excel in livestock development, leveraging the expertise of veterinary doctors and addressing conflicts related to livestock. Present at the inauguration were Vice-President Kashim Shettima, Secretary to the Government of the Federation Sen. George Akume, and Chief of Staff to the President Femi Gbajabiamila, among others.

Niger State Deputy Governor Yakubu Garba commended the Nigerian Army’s resilience and sacrifices in safeguarding lives and property in the state. He made these remarks while receiving a delegation from the 013 Quick Response Force, led by Air Commando Lazarus Solomon, who visited to express condolences over the death of Garba’s wife, Hajiya Zainab Garba.

Garba appreciated the army’s efforts in combating insecurity and requested reconsideration of the withdrawal of troops from Allawa community in Shiroro Local Government Area. He highlighted that the absence of military personnel had caused setbacks, particularly for farmers needing security cover.

Solomon, on behalf of the delegation, expressed condolences and acknowledged the significant loss to Garba and the state. He praised Garba’s active role in discussing security issues and maintaining peace. Solomon prayed for Garba’s strength to endure the tribulations following his wife’s demise.

Garba also received condolences from stakeholders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from Shiroro LGA and former commissioners.

Former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor Godwin Emefiele is standing trial over allegations of abuse of office and fraud involving $4.5 billion and ₦2.8 billion. At an Ikeja Special Offences Court, an Assistant Manager with Zenith Bank Plc, Ifeoma Ogbonnaya, detailed how Emefiele allegedly moved funds to his wife, Margaret Emefiele, through various companies.

Ogbonnaya, the fifth prosecution witness, explained that Emefiele used Zenith Bank to transfer multimillion-naira amounts to his wife via companies like Amswing Resources and Solution, Limelight Dimensional Service Ltd., Omec Support Service Ltd., and Mango Farm. She stated that all transactions were confirmed by Margaret Emefiele.

The witness, who manages these company accounts, provided evidence showing substantial cash flows from the CBN to these accounts. For example, she noted transactions including ₦18.9 million and ₦1.8 million in March 2015, ₦43 million in February 2021, ₦37.3 million in July 2022, ₦44.6 million in October 2022, and ₦93.1 million in May 2023.

Ogbonnaya communicated with Margaret Emefiele through email, phone calls, and WhatsApp for transaction approvals. She also mentioned that documents detailing these transactions were printed from her office desktop and provided to law enforcement.

The court admitted bundles of documents and a certificate of identification as evidence after the prosecution presented them without objection from the defense. The trial continues, with the next hearing scheduled for July 10, 2024.