Farooq Oreagba, celebrated for his striking presence at the 2024 Ojude Oba Festival, where he donned a flamboyant green and yellow Asooke Agbada while riding on horseback, has been recognized as an Honorary Ambassador for the National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC). Obi Asika, Director General of NCAC, announced this distinction on his Instagram, praising Oreagba for his vibrant representation of Nigerian culture at the festival, which celebrates the Awujale of Ijebu Ode.

Oreagba’s remarkable journey includes his battle with osteosarcoma and carcinoma, from which he recovered to resume his career as Managing Director and CEO of NG Clearing. His resilience and stylish presence at the festival have made him a symbol of hope and Nigerian spirit.

The Kaduna State Police Command recently recovered a stolen 2013 Honda Accord that was taken from its owner in Abuja. According to ASP Mansir Hassan, the Police Public Relations Officer, the recovery followed a tip-off received in the early hours of July 6. Acting swiftly on this information, police operatives from the Katari Division intercepted the stolen vehicle around 3:47 AM at Gidan Dan Busa village along the Kaduna-Abuja express road.

Upon approaching the suspects, they abandoned the stolen Honda Accord and fled in another vehicle. The police secured the recovered vehicle and transported it to the station for safekeeping. Commissioner of Police Ali Dabigi commended the officers for their prompt action and urged them to maintain vigilance in responding to incidents. He also encouraged the public to continue providing valuable information to support the police in combating crime.

In response to Omoyele Sowore’s criticisms of Peter Obi, Dr. Yunusa Tanko, the chief spokesman of the Obi-Datti campaign organization, defended his principal and refuted the claims of fraud leveled against him. Tanko emphasized that the allegations lacked verifiable evidence and suggested that attempts to tarnish Obi’s reputation have consistently failed to substantiate any wrongdoing.

Tanko acknowledged that criticisms against political figures are common but asserted that Peter Obi has maintained a clean record despite scrutiny. He dismissed Sowore’s characterization of Obi as a “repackaged fraud,” suggesting instead that the public’s preference for Obi over other candidates indicates a resonance with Obi’s message and plans for Nigeria.

Tanko concluded that if Sowore’s proposals had resonated more strongly with the electorate, they would have chosen him over Obi. He hinted at the need for candidates to adjust their messaging to better align with the electorate’s priorities and sentiments.

The situation surrounding the Agbara fire station in Ogun State reflects a stark contrast in explanations from government officials regarding its prolonged inactivity since its inauguration in February 2023. The station, intended to bolster emergency response along the Agbara-Atan road, has remained closed and unused, prompting scrutiny and concern.

Ogun State Commissioner for Special Duties, Olufunmilayo Efuwape, attributed the station’s dormancy to the recent employment and ongoing training of firefighters who are slated to work there. She emphasized that operational readiness requires adequate staffing, which is currently in progress.

On the other hand, Emmanuel Ojo, Senior Special Assistant to Governor Abiodun on New Media, cited the ongoing road construction along the Atan-Lusada-Agbara Road as the primary reason for the station’s non-operation. He assured residents that once the road project concludes, the fire station will commence full operations, safeguarding the welfare and security of the area.

However, the contradictory explanations suggest a potential delay in the station’s activation, particularly since the completion of the road construction appears distant. This ambiguity raises concerns about the effectiveness of emergency response in the region, highlighting the need for clarity and prompt action to address community safety needs.

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Ondo Command, recently disclosed that it has destroyed approximately 56 hectares of suspected hemp farmland in the state as part of its efforts to combat drug cultivation and trafficking. This announcement was made by the State Commander, Kayode Raji, during an event in Akure where 51 personnel of the command were decorated following their recent promotions.

Raji highlighted that in addition to the farmland destruction, the command has seized over 18,000 kilograms of assorted drugs this year, primarily hemp. They have also arrested over 140 suspects, with 41 convictions recorded so far in 2024.

Emphasizing the agency’s approach, Raji noted that while enforcement actions such as arrests and seizures are crucial, the NDLEA has equally intensified its awareness campaigns across Ondo State. He stressed that raising awareness about drug abuse and its consequences is vital in complementing enforcement efforts.

The NDLEA’s awareness campaigns have extended to schools, public institutions, markets, and various communities, aiming to educate people about the dangers of drug abuse and encourage prevention. Raji highlighted that these efforts have included counseling sessions at over 120 locations and successful rehabilitation of 12 individuals who were previously addicted to drugs.

In conclusion, Raji congratulated the promoted personnel, underscoring that promotion in the para-military is a privilege earned through hard work and dedication. He urged them to see their promotion as an opportunity to serve with greater responsibility and commitment to the agency’s mission.

Students of Lagos State University (LASU) recently staged a peaceful protest against the introduction of a ₦10,000 Computer Based Test (CBT), forensic, and counselling fees by the institution. The protest, led by LASU’s Student Union Leader, Dolapo Tobun, and other union executives, saw students carrying placards with slogans denouncing the fees as extortion.

According to Tobun, the union was not consulted or informed about the introduction of these fees. The students discovered the additional charges only when they appeared on the school portal, prompting them to organize the protest to demand immediate clarification from the university management.

Following the protest, the university management engaged with the student union leaders and agreed to withdraw the mandatory fee. Samuel Kappo, Senior Special Assistant to the Lagos State Governor on Students’ Union Affairs (Tertiary Education), commended the students for their peaceful conduct during the protest and emphasized that the welfare and academic success of students remain priorities for the Lagos State Government.

In response to the students’ concerns and after discussions with the protesting students, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello confirmed the withdrawal of the fee, ensuring that the university remains sensitive to the financial challenges faced by its students.

Overall, the protest highlighted the students’ advocacy for transparency in fee adjustments and the responsiveness of university management to student concerns.

Abubakar Kyari, the Minister of Agriculture, recently announced significant measures aimed at addressing food security challenges in Nigeria. Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja, he disclosed that the Federal Government has suspended taxes, duties, and tariffs on essential food items such as maize, wheat, husked brown rice, and cowpeas. These measures are part of a 150-day duty-free import window to facilitate the importation of these critical food commodities through land and sea borders.

Kyari emphasized the government’s commitment to combating food inflation and ensuring that every Nigerian has access to affordable food. He assured the public that imported food items under this initiative will be subject to a Recommended Retail Price (RRP) to maintain affordability and regulate market prices.

In addition to facilitating private sector imports, the government plans to import 250,000 metric tons (MT) each of wheat and maize. These imports will primarily target small-scale processors and millers across Nigeria, enhancing domestic food processing capabilities and distribution.

Furthermore, Kyari highlighted the establishment of the Renewed Hope National Livestock Transformation Implementation Committee. This committee’s mandate is to formulate and implement policies aimed at advancing livestock development nationwide, thereby supporting agricultural sustainability and economic growth.

In conclusion, the Minister underscored that these initiatives reflect the government’s commitment to revitalizing the agricultural sector, ensuring food security, and uplifting livelihoods across Nigeria.

Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, the Minister of Interior, has expressed concern over the deteriorated state of the Ikoyi Correctional Centre and pledged to undertake comprehensive reforms and redevelopment efforts. Speaking to reporters after inspecting various agencies under the Ministry of Interior in Lagos, Tunji-Ojo highlighted the need for structural improvements and interagency collaboration to enhance efficiency and management within correctional facilities.

He emphasized the government’s commitment to transforming correctional centres into environments conducive to education and rehabilitation. Tunji-Ojo criticized the current conditions at the Ikoyi Correctional Centre, suggesting the possibility of relocating some facilities due to urbanization and non-compliance with legal buffer zones.

The minister underscored the administration’s adherence to the law and its determination to correct any existing deficiencies within correctional centres. He emphasized the importance of genuine transformation and rehabilitation, advocating for a shift from mere name changes to substantive ideological and operational reforms that promote inmate reformation and societal reintegration.

In conclusion, Tunji-Ojo reiterated the government’s vision for correctional centres to serve as places of hope, education, and positive transformation rather than contributing to security concerns. He emphasized the need for meaningful changes to ensure that inmates leave these facilities with renewed prospects and a sense of optimism for their future.

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.) has attributed the fuel queues in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and parts of the country to disruptions in the ship-to-ship transfer (STS) of fuel due to recent thunderstorms. These disruptions have affected the movement of fuel between Mother Vessels and Daughter Vessels, as well as operations at jetties, truck load-outs, and transportation to filling stations.

Dapo Segun, the Executive Vice President, Downstream of NNPC Ltd., emphasized that adverse weather conditions, including rainstorms and lightning, have hampered the safe discharge of petroleum products. This has led to delays in truck loading at depots and overall logistics challenges in supplying fuel to stations.

To mitigate the situation, NNPC Ltd. has announced several measures. Fuel stations are instructed to operate longer hours to enhance petrol availability, and there is a concerted effort to collaborate with marketers to redistribute stocks more effectively among stations. This initiative aims to reduce long queues and ensure a smoother distribution of fuel across affected areas.

Furthermore, Ogbugo Ukoha, Executive Director of Distribution Systems, Storage, and Retailing Infrastructure at the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), assured the public of efforts to prevent hoarding and monitor stations for compliance. He emphasized that there are no plans to increase fuel pump prices and reaffirmed the commitment of both NNPC Ltd. and NMDPRA to ensuring energy security and stable pricing.

The regulatory bodies are actively monitoring the situation and working towards operationalizing national strategic stocks to further stabilize supply and prices in the future.

The High Court of Justice in Rivers State, under Justice Jumbo Stephen, has issued an interim injunction prohibiting the state’s Chief Judge, Justice Someone Amadi, from implementing any resolutions made by 27 lawmakers who recently defected from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). This legal action follows a contentious dispute over the lawmakers’ defection.

The court order, dated July 8, 2024, directs that the clerk of the Rivers State House of Assembly refrain from acting on resolutions, articles of impeachment, or any communications from these lawmakers pending further legal proceedings. It also mandates the maintenance of the status quo ante as of July 5, 2024, until the hearing and determination of the motion on notice for interlocutory injunction scheduled for July 15, 2024.

Furthermore, the court has ordered substituted service of legal documents on the lawmakers by pasting them at the gate of the Rivers State House of Assembly Quarters in Port Harcourt.

The presiding judge adjourned the case to July 15, 2024, for further proceedings regarding the interlocutory injunction. The lawmakers affected by this order include Hon. Dumle Maol, Hon. Major Jack, Hon. Franklin Uchenna Nwabochi, and others who switched allegiance to the APC.

The National Vanguard for Rule of Law (NVRL) has applauded the Court of Appeal’s decision to dismiss two appeals by former Local Government Chairmen in Rivers State who sought to extend their terms, supporting ex-governor Nyesom Wike. These appeals, identified as CA/PH/137M/2024 and CA/PH/145M/2024, were deemed unsubstantiated by the court.

In a statement by its President, Comrade Johnson Babatunde, the NVRL praised the judges of the Port Harcourt Division for their courage and integrity in delivering a fair judgment despite alleged attempts to bribe them. Babatunde emphasized that this ruling strengthens public trust in the judiciary and reaffirms the court as a beacon of hope for the common man.

The NVRL called on Nigerians to support judges who uphold fairness and urged residents of Rivers State to continue supporting Governor Siminalayi Fubara in advancing democratic governance. The group also encouraged citizens to prepare for upcoming local government elections to replace officials who sought to unlawfully extend their terms.

Dr. Vincent Isegbe, the Director-General of the Nigeria Agricultural Quarantine Service (NAQS), expressed gratitude for NAQS being ranked first by the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC) in its recent evaluation of regulatory reforms. NAQS achieved a perfect score of 100%, surpassing 35 other federal ministries, departments, and agencies.

Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, the President’s special adviser on ease of doing business, announced this recognition at the inaugural PEBEC town hall meeting in Abuja, commending NAQS for its commitment to excellence and service delivery.

Dr. Isegbe credited this achievement to the collaborative effort of the NAQS PEBEC Team and highlighted the leadership of Honorable Minister Senator Abubakar Kyari as instrumental in guiding NAQS to the top spot. He emphasized Senator Kyari’s dedication, vigilance in monitoring NAQS’s performance on the PEBEC tracker, and consistent motivation to maintain their leadership position.

The recognition is expected to enhance investor confidence and attract more global business opportunities to Nigeria, underscoring NAQS’s role as a leader in regulatory excellence within the country.

Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State expressed concern over the Nigerian Police Force’s delay in issuing a statement regarding the attempted detonation of an explosive device near the Presidential Hotel in Port Harcourt. The governor attributed the incident to protesters advocating for the elongation of the tenure of former chairmen of local government councils in Rivers State. He remarked that if such actions were linked to his supporters, terrorism charges would likely have been swiftly applied.

Fubara emphasized that amidst political challenges in the state, there exists a singular opposition against his administration, with others striving to undermine the state’s progress. He referenced previous declarations by his predecessors, including Nyesom Wike, affirming that Rivers State is dedicated to God, suggesting that those opposing the state would face insurmountable difficulties and setbacks.

The governor commended the Rivers State House of Assembly led by Victor Oko-Jumbo and expressed confidence in their ability to perform legislative functions lawfully. He further urged the newly appointed Commissioner for Finance, Emmanuel Frank-Fubara, to uphold integrity and serve the people with dedication.

Fubara pledged his administration’s commitment to delivering quality developmental projects that enhance the lives of Rivers State residents, aiming for a legacy of positive impact and progress for the state’s future.

In a recent tragic incident in Borno State, at least over 32 lives were lost due to a bomb blast orchestrated by four suicide bombers who detonated improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in Gwoza. This devastating attack also left numerous individuals severely injured, with injuries ranging from abdominal ruptures to fractures of the skull and limbs.

General Christopher Musa, the Chief of Defence Staff, emphasized the critical importance of public intelligence in military operations during his visit to Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State. He acknowledged the limitations of the military in being omnipresent and highlighted that recent bombings in Gwoza and Pulka were aimed at undermining the government’s efforts.

General Musa reassured Nigerians that those responsible for such attacks would be apprehended and urged collaboration between citizens and security agencies to enhance national security. He stressed that security forces are tirelessly working to maintain peace and security across Nigeria, despite the challenges posed by insurgents who operate within local communities.

The incident underscores ongoing security threats in Borno State and the broader efforts required to ensure the safety and well-being of all citizens amidst persistent acts of terrorism and violence.

The management of Kwara State University (KWASU), Malete, has announced the expulsion of 175 students for various offenses. According to a statement by Dr. Saeedat Aliyu, the Director of University Relations, the expulsion decision was based on recommendations from the Students’ Disciplinary Committee. This committee conducted sittings between October 2021 and March 2024 to review cases of misconduct.

The expelled students were found guilty of offenses such as examination malpractice, theft, using fake results for admission, assault, fraud, belonging to unregistered associations, and possession of firearms. The university reiterated its commitment to maintaining discipline and upholding high standards of character and learning among its students.

This action underscores KWASU’s zero-tolerance policy towards misconduct and aims to ensure that its graduates embody excellence in both academics and moral conduct.

The Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University Dutsinma (FUDMA), Katsina State, Prof. Armaya’u Bichi, has made a troubling revelation regarding some university staff allegedly acting as informants for bandits operating in the region. He disclosed to reporters in Katsina that these suspected individuals had been identified, and their contact details were handed over to a security agency for further investigation.

The issue arose amidst ongoing security challenges in the area, including attacks by bandits who have targeted university students, staff, and their families. A recent incident resulting in the death of a university staff member prompted protests from colleagues over the deteriorating security situation.

Prof. Bichi expressed deep concern over the existence of informants within the university, stressing that such actions undermine efforts to ensure safety on campus. Despite the university’s proactive measures to address the issue, including cooperating with security agencies, there has been no update on the progress of the investigation from the authorities involved.

In response, the Police Command in Katsina State stated that they were not initially aware of the specific allegations but pledged to investigate the matter further. They also called on the public to provide any relevant information that could assist in tackling the security challenges facing the region.

The situation underscores the severity of security threats in the region and the complexities universities face in ensuring the safety of their community amidst ongoing security challenges

In response to media reports and speculation, U.S. President Joe Biden’s physician, Dr. Kevin O’Connor, has clarified that President Biden has not seen a neurologist outside of his annual physical examinations. The statement came after questions arose regarding a Parkinson’s specialist, Dr. Cannard, who had visited the White House multiple times.

Dr. O’Connor emphasized that Dr. Cannard has been conducting neurological examinations as part of Biden’s annual physicals and has not been chosen solely because of his specialization in movement disorders. He further stated that the results of these examinations have been publicly disclosed, most recently in February, affirming that there were no signs of strokes or Parkinson’s disease, and noting the absence of any tremors in the President.

The release of this information follows a contentious exchange between journalists and White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre during a press conference. Recent visitor logs revealed Dr. Cannard’s visits to the White House, prompting questions about their purpose, which Jean-Pierre declined to directly address.

The White House’s decision to disclose these details aims to address concerns about Biden’s health and refute any unfounded speculations about his fitness for office. Biden, who is 81 years old, has faced ongoing scrutiny about his cognitive health, particularly in light of his age and previous debates during the 2020 election campaign.

Despite these questions, Biden has consistently dismissed calls for a cognitive health test, asserting his ability to fulfill his presidential duties effectively. The recent statement by his physician is intended to provide transparency and clarity regarding the President’s health status.

The Abia State Government has reported a significant increase in its Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), recording approximately ₦15.5 billion between January and June 2024. Commissioner for Finance, Mike Akpara, shared this information during a news briefing at the Government House in Umuahia. He expressed satisfaction with the consistent monthly improvement in revenue figures.

Akpara detailed that the state’s IGR had shown a steady growth, with a notable year-to-date increase from around 59% to 62%. Specifically, from January to June 2024, the IGR totaled ₦15,499,482,456.70. Additionally, from July 1 to July 6, 2024, the state generated ₦17,010,976,942.34.

He highlighted the importance of monitoring monthly average revenue, which provides a clearer picture of income patterns. For example, between June 23 and June 29, 2024, the state generated an average revenue of ₦2.5 billion. From July 1 to July 6, the average revenue increased to ₦2.7 billion, illustrating the cyclical nature of IGR.

To further boost revenue, the government has set ambitious targets: an average monthly revenue generation of ₦4.3 billion and a total of ₦52.4 billion by the end of the year. These targets exceed the budgeted figures to encourage higher performance.

Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Ferdinand Ekeoma, mentioned that a multipurpose task force has been established to ensure effective tax collection, contributing to the expected consistent increase in revenue generation. The government remains optimistic about achieving and surpassing these targets, aiming to improve the state’s financial stability and development.