In the ongoing Kano Emirship tussle, a Kano State High Court has adjourned the hearing until July 4 concerning an application seeking to restrain the 15th Emir, Aminu Ado-Bayero, and four other dethroned emirs from parading themselves as traditional rulers. The applicants, represented by Counsel Ibrahim Isah-Wangida Esq, filed a motion exparte seeking this order.

The respondents named in the case include Ado-Bayero, Alhaji Nasiru Ado-Bayero (Bichi emir), Dr Ibrahim Abubakar II (emir of Karaye), Alhaji Kabiru Muhammad-Inuwa (emir of Rano), and Alhaji Aliyu Ibrahim-Gaya (emir of Gaya). Additionally, government officials and security agencies are involved as respondents in the case.

During the recent court proceedings, Counsel to the applicants, Eyitayo Fatogun SAN, informed the court about receiving processes from the first respondent on July 1, prompting a request for a brief adjournment to respond adequately. However, Counsel to Ado-Bayero, Abdul Muhammed SAN, opposed the short adjournment and sought more time to reply and file necessary applications.

Justice Amina Adamu-Aliyu then adjourned the matter until July 4 to hear all pending applications and originating motions. Previously, on May 27, the court had granted an interim injunction restraining the first five respondents from parading themselves as Emirs in the interest of maintaining peace in Kano.

The Federal Capital Territory Emergency Management Department (FEMD) successfully rescued three individuals from a collapsed four-storey building in Abuja, located at number 23 Nkwere Street, off Ahmadu Bello Way, Area 11, Garki. Fortunately, there were no fatalities reported in the incident.

Florence Wenegieme, the acting Director-General of FEMD, confirmed that the victims rescued alive were promptly taken to the hospital for treatment and were subsequently discharged. The collapse occurred during renovations, prompting an immediate response from various emergency services including FCT Fire Service, Federal Fire Service, Julius Berger Fire Service, and National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA).

In response to the incident, FEMD emphasized the importance of adhering to building codes, employing professional builders and engineers, and conducting integrity tests on buildings before renovations. Mukhtar Galadima, Director of Development Control, ordered the demolition of remaining structures at the site and the sealing of the premises. Additionally, the Nigerian Buildings and Roads Research Institute will conduct integrity tests on surrounding buildings to ensure safety.

This incident underscores the critical need for stringent adherence to building regulations and safety protocols to prevent such occurrences in the future.

Cholera is indeed a serious diarrheal illness caused by the Vibrio cholerae bacteria, and outbreaks have been verified across Nigeria, affecting numerous states with reported cases and fatalities. To prevent cholera, it’s crucial to follow simple yet effective hygiene and sanitation practices:

1. **Drink Safe Water**: Always opt for bottled, boiled, or chemically treated water for drinking and cooking. If unsure about water safety, boil it for at least one minute or use water purification tablets.

2. **Practice Good Hand Hygiene**: Wash hands thoroughly with soap and clean water, especially after using the bathroom and before handling food. Use alcohol-based hand sanitizers if soap and water are unavailable.

3. **Eat Safe Food**: Consume food that is thoroughly cooked and served hot. Avoid raw or undercooked seafood, and be cautious with street food prepared under questionable hygiene conditions. Wash fruits and vegetables with safe water before eating.

4. **Use Proper Sanitation Facilities**: Always use toilets or latrines for human waste disposal, avoiding open defecation. Ensure sanitation facilities are clean and well-maintained to prevent contamination of water sources.

5. **Maintain a Clean Environment**: Dispose of garbage properly and keep living areas clean. Ensure sewage systems are intact and not leaking into water supplies. Regularly disinfect surfaces and objects that may harbor cholera bacteria.

By adhering to these practices, individuals can significantly reduce the risk of contracting cholera, thereby contributing to community health and safety. Prevention through hygiene and sanitation remains key in combating cholera outbreaks effectively.

The Ondo State Government, through its Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Amidu Takuro, has issued a stern warning to “minor chiefs” in the state against wearing beaded crowns, emphasizing that such actions violate existing laws. The commissioner stated that only traditional rulers (Obas) are permitted to wear beaded crowns, and any violation of this directive could lead to imprisonment ranging from two to three years upon conviction.

Addressing the media in Akure, Takuro highlighted the government’s commitment to upholding the integrity and importance of the traditional institution in Ondo State. He stressed that the government will not tolerate any actions that undermine or degrade the traditional institution, which is highly valued and respected.

Furthermore, Takuro mentioned ongoing efforts by the government to address various issues, including the nullification of the creation of Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) by the state High Court. He assured that the government would pursue multiple avenues to resolve this matter and expressed confidence in sustaining the legacy initiated by late Governor Rotimi Akeredolu regarding the establishment of LCDAs.

Additionally, the commissioner affirmed the state government’s proactive measures in preventing flooding across local government areas through de-silting projects. These initiatives are aimed at mitigating the impact of flooding and improving environmental resilience in the state.

Overall, the Ondo State Government under Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa remains committed to maintaining order within the traditional institution, addressing governance challenges, and enhancing community development through strategic initiatives.

The tragic stampede occurred during a Hindu prayer meeting in Mughalghari village, Uttar Pradesh, resulting in the deaths of 27 people, predominantly women and children. The incident happened as hundreds of attendees were dispersing from the venue.

According to Rajkumar Aggarwal, the Chief Medical Officer of the area, 27 bodies were brought to a local hospital, and numerous others sustained injuries. The exact cause of the stampede is yet to be fully determined, but overcrowding and the dynamics of dispersal likely contributed to the unfortunate event.

Authorities are managing the aftermath, providing medical care to the injured and investigating the circumstances that led to the stampede. Such incidents underscore the challenges of managing large gatherings safely, especially in densely populated areas during religious or cultural events.

The protests in Mombasa recently escalated into violence and property damage, prompting a response from Kenyan authorities and statements from President William Ruto and the Director of Public Prosecutions, Renson Ingonga. The incident that heightened tensions involved a shooting by a civilian firearm holder, reportedly the owner of Qaffee Point Hotel, who discharged his weapon during the protests, injuring two people. The hotel owner has since been arrested and disarmed.

Authorities have attributed the violence to criminal elements infiltrating the peaceful protests, leading to acts of looting, burning vehicles, and damaging property. President Ruto condemned the hijacking of what he termed as “legitimate” protests by organized criminals. Meanwhile, DPP Ingonga emphasized that while the right to assemble and demonstrate is protected under the Kenyan Constitution, any unlawful acts during protests would face severe legal consequences.

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) issued a statement urging calm and assuring the public that legal actions are underway to address the situation. They also thanked members of the public who assisted in transporting the injured to hospitals. The DCI appealed for cooperation from the people of Mombasa to maintain peace during this period of heightened tension.

Senator Opeyemi Bamidele highlighted the pivotal role played by Senator Saliu Mustapha and 72 other first-time senators in influencing the election of Senate leaders. Forming the First-Time Senators Forum, chaired by Senator Mustapha, these newcomers asserted their influence despite attempts by senior lawmakers to intimidate them.

According to Senator Bamidele, the 73 first-time senators held considerable sway because their numbers prevented the older, ranking senators from unilaterally determining the Senate President. He recounted instances where efforts to intimidate Senator Mustapha were met with steadfast resolve. Despite objections to the forum’s legitimacy, Mustapha remained firm, asserting that their influence would be felt on election day.

In response to this pressure, senior lawmakers eventually engaged in dialogue with Senator Mustapha, recognizing the significant role of the first-time senators in shaping the Senate’s leadership. This engagement not only benefited Mustapha personally but also advocated for the collective interests of all first-time senators in the Senate proceedings and leadership structure.

In the ongoing trial at the FCT High Court in Zuba, Abuja, involving Dr. Christopher Otabor, Emmanuel Olorunlaye, Chikaodili Ugochukwu, and Dr. Aremu Abayomi over alleged organ harvesting, the proceedings recently focused on procedural issues regarding the service of court documents.

The Defence Counsel, Richard Adepoju, informed the court that he had only received the prosecution’s documents on the morning of the hearing, despite efforts to serve him earlier. He asserted his right to respond to these documents in accordance with legal procedures.

In response, the Prosecution Counsel, Hassan Tahir, explained that attempts to serve the defence counsel outside the courtroom had failed, leading them to serve the documents during the hearing. He opposed any adjournment to allow the defence more time to respond, arguing that they had fulfilled their obligation to serve the documents.

Meanwhile, Afam Odigwe, SAN, representing other defendants, emphasized the importance of adhering to constitutional rights in legal proceedings.

The case centers on allegations that Emmanuel Olorunlaye facilitated the removal of kidneys from two 17-year-old boys and a 25-year-old man at Alliance Hospital in Abuja. Chikaodili Ugochukwu, an Administrative Secretary, allegedly assisted in the procedure, while Dr. Christopher Otabor, the Medical Director, provided accommodation for the victims, and Dr. Aremu Abayomi performed the operations.

The defendants have pleaded not guilty to the charges brought against them under the Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Enforcement and Administration Act, 2015. The court has scheduled July 10 to hear the no-case submission in the trial, marking the next step in the legal process.

Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State recently addressed the 2024 Batch B, Stream I corps members during their swearing-in ceremony in Ede, Osun. He emphasized the importance of their service year as a crucial opportunity to contribute to nation-building and strengthen Nigeria’s unity. Adeleke highlighted the significance of the national anthem as a symbol of dedication to serving the country.

During his speech, Adeleke reassured the corps members of his government’s commitment to their security and welfare throughout their service year. He mentioned that measures had been implemented to ensure their safety and urged them to utilize the support systems provided. Adeleke underscored the orientation course as foundational for their service, equipping them with essential skills and knowledge.

The governor encouraged the corps members to demonstrate dedication and enthusiasm, leveraging the training platforms available to them. He pledged ongoing support from his administration to the NYSC scheme to fulfill its mandate in Osun State. The NYSC Coordinator in Osun, Agbor Obim, also praised the state government for its support and advised corps members to uphold the ethics and principles of the service during their tenure.

Overall, Adeleke’s address aimed to inspire the corps members to approach their service year with commitment and responsibility, contributing positively to their communities and the nation at large.

The Imo State House of Assembly recently suspended four lawmakers for their alleged involvement in plotting to impeach Speaker Chike Olemgbe. The suspension was confirmed by Peter Uwa, the Speaker’s Chief Press Secretary in Owerri. The suspended lawmakers are Chidebere Ogbunikpa (Okigwe state constituency), Sam Otuibe (Ahiazu state constituency), Henry Agbasonu (Ezinihitte Mbaise state constituency), and Dominic Ezrioha (Oru West state constituency).

Speaker Olemgbe exercised his authority to announce the suspension, citing the lawmakers’ role in attempting to orchestrate his impeachment and their alleged encouragement of other members to support the move. The decision was reportedly made without a formal motion but was announced directly by the Speaker during Assembly proceedings.

Governor Umaru Bago of Niger State has made significant announcements and pledges during the swearing-in ceremony of the 2024 Batch B, Stream Orientation Course of the NYSC in Paiko, Niger State. Here are the key points:

1. **New NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp**: Governor Bago has approved ₦5 billion for the construction of a new NYSC permanent orientation camp in Niger State. This investment aims to improve facilities and provide better conditions for corps members.

2. **Welfare Package for Corps Members**: During the ceremony, Governor Bago announced a ₦200,000 bonus for each of the 1,600 corps members of the 2024 Batch B, Stream 1. In addition, he provided 20 cows and a truck of rice to ensure their comfort during their service year.

3. **Agricultural Revolution**: Governor Bago called on corps members posted to Niger State to participate in his agricultural revolution. He emphasized that his administration has heavily invested in the agriculture sector to address food security challenges. He assured corps members who engage in agriculture of additional incentives such as housing and vehicles.

4. **National Youth Development Initiatives**: Dr. Jemila Ibrahim, Minister for Youth Development, announced initiatives to empower NYSC members, including the National Youth Skills Programme (NYSP) to train over one million young people in various fields like technology and agriculture. The ministry also launched the restructured Nigerian Youth Investment Fund (NYIF) to provide financial support for business ideas.

5. **Support and Collaboration**: The Director-General of NYSC, Brig.-Gen. Yushau Ahmed, commended Governor Bago for his support towards NYSC activities in Niger State. He assured corps members of adequate security and encouraged them to participate in skills acquisition programs to become self-reliant.

Overall, Governor Bago’s initiatives aim to enhance the welfare and skills development of corps members while contributing to agricultural development and overall youth empowerment in Niger State.

The recent anti-government protests in Kenya have escalated into violence and widespread unrest, leading to significant public outcry and concern. Here are the key points:

1. **Violence and Vandalism**: The protests, initially intended to voice grievances against the government, have been marred by widespread looting and vandalism. Locations like Kitengela and Nairobi’s CBD have seen establishments looted and property destroyed.

2. **Casualties**: As of the latest reports, the protests have resulted in at least 39 deaths and numerous injuries. This toll continues to rise as the demonstrations persist.

3. **Journalist Injury**: Joel Chacha, a K24 political affairs reporter, was injured while covering the protests in Nairobi. Videos on social media captured the moment he was assisted due to his injuries.

4. **Public Outcry**: Many Kenyans, both online and offline, have expressed dismay that what began as peaceful demonstrations has turned chaotic and destructive. There’s a widespread sentiment that criminals have hijacked the protests for their own gains.

5. **Government Response**: The Directorate of Criminal Investigations has vowed to apprehend those responsible for the violence and looting. However, there are growing calls from leaders and the public alike for the protests to cease in order to prevent further escalation and loss of life.

Overall, the situation in Kenya remains tense, with efforts ongoing to restore calm and address the underlying issues that sparked the protests originally.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has emphasized the importance of public-private partnerships in addressing the housing challenges in Lagos. During the inauguration of 204 housing units in Amuwo Odofin Local Government Area, he reiterated his commitment to providing affordable housing for residents. Sanwo-Olu acknowledged that government alone cannot solve the housing deficit and called for continued collaboration with private sectors and stakeholders in real estate.

He highlighted that housing is a fundamental human need that contributes to stronger family ties and overall citizen well-being. The governor expressed optimism in exploring innovative solutions and investing in sustainable development projects to ensure decent and affordable housing for Lagosians. Sanwo-Olu also commended LBIC, WGC, and the Lagos State Ministry of Works and Infrastructure for their efforts in bridging the housing gap in the state.

The power dynamics between the Sultan of Sokoto and the Sokoto State Government have come into question, with the state Commissioner of Justice, Barrister Nasiru Binji, asserting that the Sultan does not have the authority to appoint district and village heads without the approval of the state governor. Binji made this clarification during a public hearing on the Sokoto Local Government and Chieftaincy Law 2008, held on Tuesday, July 2, 2024.

According to Binji, Section 76(2) of the Sokoto Local Government and Chieftaincy Law grants the Sultanate Council the power to make such appointments, but it mandates that these appointments must be ratified by the state governor to be valid. He argued that this provision conflicts with Section 5(2) of the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria, which vests the executive power of the state, including the power of appointment, solely in the governor or those authorized by him.

Binji emphasized, “The power to appoint is the executive power and who exercises the power, is it not the Governor? This is the reason for the amendment. To correct the mistake of the past.”

This stance underscores a legal and constitutional interpretation that seeks to clarify and align the chieftaincy appointments within Sokoto State with the constitutional provisions governing executive powers. It also addresses concerns raised by various stakeholders about the division of authority in matters of local governance and traditional leadership within the state.

Mele Kyari, the Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), declared a state of emergency on oil production aimed at increasing Nigeria’s crude oil production and growing its reserves. He made this announcement during the 23rd edition of the Nigeria Oil and Gas Conference and Exhibition Week in Abuja on Tuesday, July 2, 2024.

Kyari emphasized the urgency of addressing challenges affecting crude oil production, stating, “We have decided to stop the debate. We have declared war on the challenges affecting our crude oil production. War means war. We have the right tools. We know what to fight. We know what we have to do at the level of assets. We have engaged our partners. And we will work together to improve the situation.”

He highlighted that assets analysis has indicated Nigeria’s capability to produce up to two million barrels of crude oil per day. However, he noted that the main hindrance to achieving this potential is the lack of prompt action from stakeholders.

The NNPC’s move underscores a strategic initiative to overcome production challenges and enhance Nigeria’s crude oil output amid ongoing efforts within the oil and gas sector.

Dr. Jide Idris, Director-General of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), provided an update on the cholera situation in Nigeria during a press conference in Abuja. As of June 30, Nigeria had recorded 2,102 suspected cholera cases and 63 deaths across 33 states and 122 local government areas, with a case fatality rate of 3.0%.

The top 10 affected states include Lagos, Bayelsa, Abia, Zamfara, Bauchi, Katsina, Cross River, Ebonyi, Rivers, and Delta, with seven of these states located in the southern region. The NCDC activated a National Cholera Multisectoral Emergency Operation Centre (EOC) to coordinate response efforts, focusing on resource mobilisation, surveillance, case management, and community engagement.

Dr. Idris highlighted challenges such as open defecation, inadequate sanitation facilities, poor water management, and weak regulatory practices contributing to the spread of cholera. Climate change and flooding have also exacerbated the situation. The NCDC’s response includes assessments in hotspot areas, distribution of medical supplies, training programs, and public health advisories to improve hygiene practices and enforce public health laws.

The Minister of State for Environment, Dr. Iziaq Salako, emphasized the impact of climate change on environmental sanitation and public health, underscoring the need for prioritizing sanitation and improving living conditions to mitigate cholera outbreaks.

Public health experts recommend a comprehensive strategy focusing on improved sanitation, access to safe water, hygiene education, and better living conditions to effectively combat cholera outbreaks in Nigeria.

Ola Olukoyede, Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), expressed astonishment at Nigeria’s resilience despite the staggering amounts of public funds stolen by corrupt individuals. He made these remarks while discussing the pervasive issue of corruption during a meeting with the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission. Olukoyede, the first southerner to lead the EFCC, lamented the extent of corruption revealed in case files, highlighting instances where budget allocations were illicitly transferred to private accounts.

According to Olukoyede, corruption remains a significant barrier to Nigeria’s development, emphasizing that if eliminated, the country could surpass many others globally. He criticized the impunity with which some public officials refuse accountability for their actions, stressing the need for transparency and accountability across both public and private sectors to combat corruption effectively.

The paramount ruler of Egbaland in Ogun State, Oba Adedotun Gbadebo, has urged the Federal Government to designate July 13 as Wole Soyinka Day in honor of the Nobel Laureate’s contributions to literature and humanity. Speaking at a press conference ahead of Soyinka’s 90th birthday, Oba Gbadebo emphasized that July 13, Soyinka’s birthday, is already celebrated in Egbaland.

The monarch proposed that Nigeria should follow suit and adopt July 13 nationally to celebrate Soyinka’s legacy. He further recommended that the Federal Government confer upon Soyinka the second highest national honour of Grand Commander of the Order of Niger (GCON) in recognition of his significant contributions to literature globally.

Additionally, events are planned around Soyinka’s 90th birthday celebration, including art exhibitions by pupils from St. Peters Primary School and Abeokuta Grammar School, where Soyinka studied. Other activities include book exhibitions, documentaries, poetry recitations, and a hunting expedition by hunters in Egbaland.

Peter Obi, the Presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 election, commented on the exclusion of Nigerian students from the Harvard Business School class of 2025 programme, attributing it to Nigeria’s tarnished reputation. In a series of tweets on Wednesday, July 3, 2024, Obi pointed out that despite the programme leader being a Nigerian professor, students from Kenya, Rwanda, Morocco, and Ghana were selected instead.

Obi stated that this exclusion underscores the negative impact of Nigeria’s recent image and attractiveness to international institutions and investors. He emphasized that Nigeria’s declining reputation was evident as Harvard Business School chose 16 countries for its global immersion course but notably excluded Nigeria. The initiative, aimed at teaching students leadership, teamwork, and cross-cultural understanding, selected four African focus countries: Kenya, Rwanda, Morocco, and Ghana.

Obi highlighted that the class of 2025 program showcases the importance of collaboration and knowledge sharing between institutions and countries. He expressed hope that Nigeria would recognize its deficiencies and work towards improving its global standing.

The Niger Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Federal Ministry of Youths Development to engage corps members in agricultural activities to support food security. The signing ceremony took place at the Government House in Minna, with Governor Mohammed Bago representing the state and Minister for Youth Development, Dr. Jamila Bio-Ibrahim, representing the ministry.

Governor Bago highlighted that this initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s vision for food security and focuses on youth empowerment through agriculture. He emphasized that with youth comprising 80% of Nigeria’s population, venturing into agriculture would help them become self-reliant. The partnership aims to leverage the manpower represented by the corps members, addressing the need for more professionals in the agricultural value chain.

The governor also mentioned that the state is committed to an agricultural revolution, including building the largest greenhouse estate in Africa, which could employ a million people. Additionally, the state is developing 100 farm estates and cultivating 250,000 hectares of land across its 25 local government areas.

Minister Bio-Ibrahim praised the governor for his dedication to supporting the NYSC and for investing in the construction of a permanent NYSC camp in the state. She noted that this partnership would help the NYSC become self-sustaining amid current economic changes.