Tag: law enforcement

  • Alleged Terrorists: Imo monarchs killers face fresh charges, March 12

    Alleged Terrorists: Imo monarchs killers face fresh charges, March 12

    The two suspected terrorists, Jude Iheme and Chika Madukwe who allegedly kidnapped and killed the traditional ruler of Amanze Obowo Autonomous Community of Imo State, Eze Basil Njoku are to face fresh terrorism charges at the Federal High Court in Abuja on March 12.

    Iheme, 52 years of Amagwu Amanze Obowo local government area of Imo and Madukwe, 42 years of Ndi-Uche Etiti Omuimo local government area also of Imo State were said to have killed the traditional ruler on December 17, 2022.

    The defendants were accused of killing the monarch while coming from the Federal Medical Center, Umuahia after kidnapping and collecting a ransom of N4M cash from his family.

    The Inspector General of Police (IGP) filed the 3-count terrorism charges against them.

    In the charge marked FHC/ABJ/CR/575/2024, Iheme and Madukwe alongside others said to be at large were said to have conspired to commit felony to wit, acts of terrorism contrary to section 26 of the Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act 2022.

    They were also said to have armed themselves with guns and offensive weapons, attacked, kidnapped and killed the monarch on December 17, 2022.

    The IGP also accused them of failing to volunteer information at their disposal to security agencies which could have led to apprehension of other kidnappers contrary to section 16 of the same Terrorism Act.

    When the charges were read to them before Justice Binta Nyako, they pleaded not guilty.

    A Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN),.Simon Lough who is leading the prosecution for the Inspector General of Police told the court that Police has amended the charges following the arrest of more suspects by operatives.

    He requested for a date for the other suspects to be brought to court to take plea in the amended charges.

    Justice Binta Nyako granted the request and fixed March 12 for the fresh arraignment.

    The Judge ordered that the two defendants be remanded at Kuje Prison in Abuja and be returned to court on the adjourned date.

    Count One of the charge read “That you Jude Iheme ‘M’ 56 yrs of Amagwu Amanze Obowo LGA of Imo state, Chika Madukwe ‘M’ 42 years of Ndi-Uche Etiti Omuimo LGA Imo State and others now at large on about the 17th December, 2022 at 71/2 junction Umumegwu Amanze village Obowo LGA Imo state within the jurisdiction of this court while acting in concert conspired together to commit Felony to wit: acts of terrorism and thereby committed an offence contrary to section 26 of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act 2022.

    Count two “That you Jude Iheme ‘M’ 56yrs of Amagwu Amanze Obowo LGA of Imo state, Chika Madukwe ‘M’ 42 years of Ndi-Uche Etiti Omuimo LGA of Imo State and others now at large on about the 17th December, 2022 at 71/2 junction Umumegwu – Amanze village Obowo LGA of Imo state within the jurisdiction of this court while acting in concert and armed with guns and other offensive weapons attacked, kidnapped and killed HRH Eze Basil
    Njoku of Amanze Obowo Autonomous Community in Imo State on his way from Federal Medical Centre Umuahia having collected a ransom of N4,000,000.00 (four million naira) from his family and thereby committed an offence contrary to section 2(2) (f) of Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act 2022.

    Count three “That you Jude Iheme ‘M’ 56 yrs of Amagwu Amanze Obowo LGA of Imo state, Chika Madukwe ‘M’ 42 years of Ndi-Uche Etiti Omuimo LGA of Imo State and others now at large on about the 20th December, 2022 at Amanze village Obowo LGA of Imo state within the jurisdiction of this court while acting in concert and having information through your communication with the kidnappers that HRH Eze Basil Njoku of Amanze Obowo Autonomous Community in Imo State was attacked and kidnapped on his way from Federal Medical Centre Umuahia which information was material to the apprehension of the kidnappers, you failed to immediately disclosed the information to relevant agencies and thereby committed an offence contrary to section 16(1)(b) of Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act 2022.

  • FCT police Denies reports of looted truck

    FCT police Denies reports of looted truck

    The Federal Capital Territory Police Command has debunked reports claiming a truck carrying food items in the Dei-Dei area of the FCT was attacked and looted on Monday morning.

    In a statement released by the command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, the police said they were unaware of such attacks.

    However, Adeh asked that anyone or any persons with evidence of any such activities to come forward and report to the police.

    “The FCT Police Command is not aware of any looting of food trucks in Dei-Dei Abuja this morning, being the 4/3/2024, but if you have any information pls, come to us with details,” the statement read.

  • SSANU Alleges Abandonment, Threatens Strike

    SSANU Alleges Abandonment, Threatens Strike

    The Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities, (SSANU) has alleged abandonment by the Federal Government.

    Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, the President of SSANU Mohammed Ibrahim, accused the Federal Government of treating its members and that of the Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions, (NASU) with “disdain”. 

    “We have to speak like this because we have been clearly shown that we do not matter in the system. But we all know that there is no university that can function without the non-teaching staff because we are majorly populated by professionals. We own the engine of the administration of every university. They are treating this segment of staff with some disdain. It does not speak good of the system,” he said during the show.

    He said the SSANU and NASU are yet to get a “dime” since President Tinubu’s approval of the payment of the salary backlog.

    “We have been waiting and our patience is running out,” the SSANU leader said.

    President Bola Tinubu, had directed the payment of withheld salaries for university workers owing to their strike of 2022. But SSANU, NASU, and the National Association of Academic Technologists (NAAT) said they are yet to get salaries for the said period, threatening to go on strike.

  • Kano Hisbah Boss Resigns, Gives Reason

    Kano Hisbah Boss Resigns, Gives Reason

    The Commander-General of the Kano State Hisbah Board, Sheikh Aminu Ibrahim Daurawa has resigned his position.

    Giving reasons for the resignation, Daurawa cited “discouragement” from the state governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf.

    He expressed disappointment at the governor’s remarks despite his efforts to uphold societal morality during his time at Hisbah. 

    In a video shared on social media, he mentioned being in Kaduna State discussing the implementation of mandatory pre-marital health checks in Kano, similar to other states. 

    He highlighted his efforts to engage with Kannywood and TikTok personalities, providing guidance and financial support. 

    However, he acknowledged facing criticism from Kano and apologized to the governor for his frustration, announcing his resignation from his position at Hisbah.

    His words:

    ” I’ve encountered discouraging comments from Kano, despite my efforts at Hisbah to promote societal morality.

    “I’ve actively engaged with Kannywood and TikTok celebrities, offering guidance and even providing financial assistance to some TikTokers. I even extended advice to Murja too.

    “Unfortunately, those who disregarded our guidance faced consequences.

    “But I am saying sorry to the Excellency Governor for being angry, I sorry to say I have resigned from the position he gave me in Hisbah, I wish him best in his leadership.”

  • Senate Summons Wike Over Rising Insecurity

    Senate Summons Wike Over Rising Insecurity

    In response to the alarming surge in kidnappings, the Senate has summoned the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, and Commissioner of Police, Benneth Igwe.

    This comes after the abduction and tragic murder of Chris Agidy, an aide to Senator Ned Nwoko, in the Galadimawa area of Abuja in November 2023.

    Senator Nwoko, deeply affected by the incident, sponsored a motion leading to the Senate’s resolution. 

    The Red Chamber demanded the FCT Minister and the Police Commissioner to provide insights into the escalating kidnapping cases within Nigeria’s capital.

    Following an intense debate, the Senate mandated the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to enhance security patrols nationwide. 

    Additionally, the installation of CCTV cameras along Abuja highways and the establishment of a three-digit emergency number for swift police response were directed.

    In a bid to bolster emergency services, the Nigerian Communications Commission was tasked to ensure the functionality of dedicated emergency numbers for the police, ambulance, and fire services.

    Senate President Godswill Akpabio emphasized the seriousness of the matter, stating that both the FCT Minister and the Police Commissioner would meet with the Senate in a closed-door session. The aim is to discuss the measures and strategies in place to combat the growing threat of kidnappings not only in the FCT but across Nigeria.

    Akpabio concluded, “Incidences like the kidnapping and killing of Senator Nwoko’s Senior Legislative Aide and other residents are worrisome and must be stopped, not only in the FCT but also in Nigeria generally.”

  • Road Blocked As Kaduna Residents Protest Bandits Attack

    Road Blocked As Kaduna Residents Protest Bandits Attack

    Residents of Goningora in Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State have blocked the Abuja-Kaduna highway following the attack on the community by bandits.

    Following the attack on the night of Wednesday, February 28th, 2024, several members of the community were said to have been kidnapped and several injured.

    Channels Television reports that angry residents took to the streets on Thursday morning, blocking the busy Abuja-Kaduna highway.

    The development has caused heavy traffic on the road, with many motorists stranded.

    Two people, including a member of the Civilian Joint Task Force, were reportedly killed in the attack.

    The latest attack on the Goningora community comes barely a week after soldiers killed a notorious bandit, Kingpin, Boderi Isyaku and some of his fighters in the same Chikun local government.

    A military armoured vehicle was said to have been set ablaze by the bandits when soldiers attempted to repel them.

  • Release Nnamdi Kanu now, Sunday Igboho Tells Tinubu

    Release Nnamdi Kanu now, Sunday Igboho Tells Tinubu

    Yoruba activist Sunday Igboho has called on the Federal Government to release Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). 

    The plea, delivered through a viral video on Tuesday, coincided with Kanu’s trial at the Federal High Court in Abuja.

    Kanu, who appeared in court on February 26, 2024, for the first time since a Supreme Court ruling on December 15, 2023, has been in custody since June 2021. 

    Igboho emphasized Kanu’s innocence, urging an end to political maneuvers and highlighting the need for Kanu to be reunited with his family.

    Igboho stated in the video, “Release Nnamdi Kanu. Stop politics. This guy didn’t do anything. Today is February 27, 2024. Release him, let him go, and stay with his family. This guy just fights for his people in the Southeast like me that I’m fighting for my people in Yorubaland. Release him, let him go. Stop these political games. Release Kanu, let him go home, please release him.”

  • IPOB: Kanu knows fate on fresh bail application, March 19

    IPOB: Kanu knows fate on fresh bail application, March 19

    Nnamdi Kanu, the self acclaimed leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), will on March 19, know fate on his fresh bail application in the terrorism charges against him by the federal government.

    The trial judge, Justice Binta Nyako, fixed the date after taking arguments from his counsel, Alloy Ejimakor, praying for his bail, while counsel to the FG, Adegboyega Awomolo SAN objected to granting of bail.

    In his argument, Kanu prayed for bail to enable him to have unfettered access to his lawyers for his defense.

    He also claimed to be suffering from acute hypertension and acute heart disease, among other diseases.

    Responding, FG objected to the application on the ground that Kanu was once granted bail but jumped and fled the country.

    Awomolo posited that all the bail conditions set by the court were breached and violated and pleaded with the court to dismiss the request.

    On another motion before the court, Kanu prayed the court not to allow continuation of his trial until certain conditions were met by the federal government.

    Among others, he requested that Department of State Security (DSS)operatives be barred from interfering with his lawyers during visitation.

    He also asked that the court should compel the federal government to wear the clothes of his choice.

    Reacting, the federal government objected to the request on the ground that he has no right under any law to dictate how his trial should be conducted.

    Consequently, Awomolo asked the court to dismiss the motion on the ground that it was a gross abuse of the court process that must not be allowed.

    In the meantime, the matter will continue March 19 for ruling on the bail application.

  • Nigeria Police Seal NLC Office in Lagos Ahead of Planned Protest

    Nigeria Police Seal NLC Office in Lagos Ahead of Planned Protest

    In a move to thwart the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) planned nationwide protest against hunger and hardship, the Nigeria Police Force has sealed the NLC office in Lagos State. 

    The protest, scheduled for February 27 and 28, is aimed at address economic challenges faced by Nigerians.

    Hassan Taiwo, national coordinator of the Education Rights Campaign (ERC), shared an image on Monday morning revealing armed police personnel stationed in front of the NLC headquarters in the Yaba area of Lagos State. 

    Some individuals within the building remain uncertain about the unfolding developments.

    The NLC had issued a 14-day ultimatum to the Nigerian government regarding widespread hardship, leading to the organization of the protest. 

    Despite warnings from the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), urging cancellation, the NLC remained steadfast in its decision.

    Accusing the government of planning to attack peaceful rallies and alleging involvement of certain groups in causing violence against protestors, the NLC President emphasized the right to peaceful protest. 

    The statement also expressed concerns about potential deployment of state-sponsored terror, highlighting the NLC’s determination to proceed with the protest despite government warnings and concerns from various quarters.

  • How 3 Siblings Suffocated To Death In A Car On Sunday

    How 3 Siblings Suffocated To Death In A Car On Sunday

    In a heart-wrenching incident at No. 8, Boluke Line, Zango-Kulende quarters, Ilorin, a boy and two girls, siblings of the same parent, lost their lives due to extreme suffocation inside a car parked in their residential quarters on Sunday.

    The children, playing inside the borrowed car, accidentally locked themselves in at around 2 p.m.

    The car, borrowed from their father’s sister within the same premises, became a harrowing scene when their mother, Shade Silifat, returned from buying noodles for their school meals.

    Discovering their footwear outside the car, she raised an alarm after forcing the doors open, only to find her children motionless, having succumbed to suffocation.

    Efforts to rescue them were made, rushing the children to Olutayo Clinic, near their residence, but the medical director, Dr. Adeyemo, advised moving them to the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, where they were tragically confirmed dead.

    The grieving family later conducted the burial at the Muslim cemetery, adhering to Islamic rites.