Skip to main content

Posts

Showing posts from September, 2024

Femi Falana Condemns School Fee Hike by Federal and Lagos State Governments, Deems It Illegal and Vows Legal Action

  By Olasnkanmi Akoni Human Rights Lawyer, Femi Falana, SAN has condemned the recent increment in school fees by the Federal and Lagos State Government, describing it as “illegal.” Recall that the Federal Government had in July 2023 increased fees for Unity Schools from N45,000 to N100,000 per term an increase of over 120 per cent. Similarly, the Lagos State Government, at the weekend announced N100,000 as the new fee for the state-owned boarding schools which was previously, N35,000. Falana in his reaction, described it as a violation of the Child’s Rights Law. He lamented that with the increase being above the Minimum Wage of N70,000, “a worker can no longer sponsor even one child either in Unity School or any secondary school in Lagos State. Falana, however, vowed to challenge the decision in the appropriate High Court. According to him, “The Federal Government has increased fee payable in all unity schools from N45, 000 to N100, 000 per term. Thus, the fee payable per annum is N300

PDP Heavyweights Defect to APC as Ntufam Francis Effiom Leads Cross River Ward 8 Exodus

Jesam Ofem (Trinity)   In a major political shift, Ntufam Francis Effiom PhD, alongside key political associates, officially defected from the People's Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) on September 15, 2024. The high-profile defection took place at Nkonib Town Hall in Ikot Ansa, Ward 8 of Calabar Municipality, Cross River State. Speaking to journalists at the venue, Effiom noted the remarkable achievements of Cross River State Governor, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, as a primary factor for their move. Effiom praised the governor for his dedication to grassroots development, pointing out the construction of the NNPC road and the rehabilitation of Asimita Street as evidence of the governor’s commitment to the people of Ward 8. "It is clear that Senator Prince Bassey Otu has attended to the needs of my people in just a few months of being in office. That is capacity," Effiom remarked.  "Politics is local, and we have come to add value to A

300 NNPC Trucks Arrive at Dangote Refinery for Petrol Loading as Operations Set to Begin Tomorrow

  The Nigerian National Petroleum Company, NNPC, Limited’s trucks are arriving the Dangote Refinery ahead of loading of petrol tomorrow, Sunday, as scheduled. In total, 300 NNPC trucks will be ready to load petrol. The company’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Olufemi Soneye, told Vanguard: “We (NNPC Ltd) has started deploying our trucks and vessels to the Dangote Refinery to lift PMS (petrol), in preparation for the scheduled lifting date of September 15th, as set by the refinery. “Our trucks and personnel are already on site, ready to begin lifting. “We are expecting more trucks, and the deployment will continue throughout the weekend so we can start loading as soon as the refinery begins operations on the 15th (tomorrow). On X (Twitter), Soneye wrote: “NNPC Ltd. trucks are arriving at the Dangote Refinery in preparation for the scheduled petrol loading on Sunday, September 15, 2024. “By the end of today, at least 300 trucks will be stationed at the refinery’s fuel loading ga

First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu warmly recieves Team Nigeria Paralympians Following heroics in Paris

_First Lady, Sports Minister applaud athletes' resilience, tenacity and patriotic spirit_ The Nigerian Paralympic contingent to the 2024 Paralympic Games have been warmly received at the Presidential Villa by the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, following their impressive performance in Paris. The team led by the Honourable Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh were hosted by Senator Tinubu on Saturday, following their impressive performance at the Games, after securing a total of seven medals. The First Lady lauded the athletes for their dedication, resilience, and extraordinary achievements, emphasizing that their success at the Paralympic Games epitomizes perseverance, dedication, and the highest standard of sportsmanship. “Today, we celebrate not just the medals, but the spirit of resilience that defines our athletes and your names will be written in the annals of history as champions.” “I congratulate each one of you for making Nigeria proud. You

Niko Adeleke Donates ₦10 Million, Food Supplies to NYSC Members in Osun State

  In a heartwarming gesture, Niko Adeleke, cousin to Nigerian music star Davido, recently visited the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) orientation camp in Osun State, where she donated ₦10 million to the corps members. Alongside the monetary donation, Adeleke also provided 40 bags of rice and four cows to ensure that the corps members enjoy hearty meals during their service period. She further promised to revisit the camp in the near future to check on the progress and well-being of the corps members. This act of kindness has garnered praise, with many applauding the Adeleke family for their continued support of the less privileged. Adeleke’s philanthropic efforts reflect a commitment to uplifting communities and ensuring that resources are not just spent lavishly, but are directed toward meaningful causes.

NYSC Coordinator Urges Corps Members to Promote Cultural Heritage at 2024 Batch B Stream 2 Carnival in Cross River State

The state Coordinator of NYSC Cross River State, Mrs Oyenuga joke while declaring open the carnival celebration for the 2024 Batch B stream 2 Orientation Course at the NYSC permanent Orientation camp, Obubra Cross River State, with the title "OUR CULTURE OUR WAY OF LIFE", charged the corps members to always promote our rich cultural heritage as way of life. Mrs Oyenuga stated that Nigeria stands tall in the world with beautiful culture of elegance and glamour, therefore admonished the corps members to respect the culture of the land and used the carnival celebration as an avenue to promote National unity and integration amongst the youths across ethnic lines. Camp officials and corps members dressed in their various beautiful attires to celebrate the occasion as camp is gradually coming to an end. Ten platoons participated in the competition, at the end of the carnival celebration platoon 8 emerged overall winner while platoon 10 and 1 came second and third respectively.

Building Collapse in UNIBEN's Ekosodin Area: Students Trapped, One Still Missing as Rescue Efforts Continue

The building located on Ekhator Street, Ekosodin—a popular area for UNIBEN students— collapsed following a heavy downpour trapping many students inside. Eyewitnesses reported that a swift response from the university’s rescue team led to the successful extraction of some of the trapped students. However, many sustained severe injuries and were rushed to nearby hospitals for urgent medical treatment. Rescue efforts are still underway as one victim remains unaccounted for. According to reports, the missing individual managed to call for help from beneath the rubble, pleading for assistance. Rescue teams are continuing their search to locate and safely retrieve the trapped victim. The Dean of Students from UNIBEN is currently at the scene, overseeing the rescue operation alongside other university officials, ensuring all efforts are being made to save the missing student and assist those affected by the tragedy. Further details on why the building collapsed and the condition of the UNIBEN

Police Parade Four Suspects Over Ritual Killing of 19-Year-Old Federal University Lokoja Student

By Gbenga Odogun   The Kogi State Police Command has paraded four suspects linked to the death of Damilola Olowoyo, a 19-year-old first-year student at the Federal University, Lokoja. The suspects, Jeremiah Paul, Emmanuel Otitoju, Banabas Olugbenga, and Ajayi Ayomide, were presented at the police headquarters in Lokoja on Friday. According to the state Police Public Relations Officer, SP William Aya, the prime suspect, Jeremiah Paul, lured the victim into the bush and killed her for ritual purposes. Aya explained that the police received a report about Damilola’s disappearance, which led the state Commissioner of Police to assign the case to the State Intelligence Department. With the help of the technical unit at the Force Headquarters, the police were able to track and apprehend Jeremiah Paul. “Jeremiah Paul confessed to luring Damilola on September 4, 2024, by pretending to be interested in her. He gave her a drink spiked with codeine, making her weak. “He then took her to an uncomp

BREAKING NEWS: Senator Sandy Onor Aide dumps PDP

  In a formal letter addressed to the Ward Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Osopong Ward 2, Obubra Local Government Area, Mr. Umezulike Desmond-cruz has tendered his resignation from the party, citing deep-seated concerns about the current state of the PDP. In his letter, Desmond-cruz expressed disappointment over what he described as the party's departure from the ideals of its founding fathers. According to him, the PDP has been "hijacked at all levels" by individuals who no longer serve the interests of the people but rather promote personal and selfish agendas. He lamented that the party, once a beacon of hope and a viable alternative for the people, has become factionalized and lost its ability to serve as a robust opposition, particularly in the face of Nigeria's economic challenges. Desmond-cruz further criticized the current leadership for its failure to offer "vibrant opposition and people-centric policy alternatives." His resignati

IPAC Chairman Urges Governor to Expedite Assent to CROSIEC Bill, Calls for Local Government Elections Before Year-End

  In a press briefing held at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Cross River State today the 13th Day of September 2024, the Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), Engr. Effiom Edet, called on the Cross River State Governor, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, to quickly assent to the recently passed Cross River Independent Electoral Commission (CROSIEC) Bill. The bill, which amends laws regulating local government elections, was passed by the State House of Assembly after extensive stakeholder engagement. The IPAC Chairman commended the Assembly for its swift action and emphasized the need for local government elections to be conducted before the end of 2024. He warned that if the elections are delayed, IPAC would seek federal intervention to halt allocations to the state’s 18 local government areas. IPAC also paid a courtesy visit to the newly formed CROSIEC, urging them to release an election timetable and ensure free, fair, and transparent elections.

NAF Officer, David Sangokoya, Wins 2023 International Sword of Honour at UK’s Royal Air Force College

 By Abdul-hafeez Fadeha A Nigerian Air Force officer, David Sangokoya, has been awarded the International Sword of Honour for 2023 at the Royal Air Force College Cranwell, United Kingdom. This was disclosed in a statement shared on Facebook by the Nigerian Air Force on Friday. The statement is titled “NAF Officer Awarded 2023 International Sword of Honour At RAF College Cranwell UK.” It read, “A Nigerian Air Force officer has been awarded the International Sword of Honour for 2023 at the Royal Air Force College Cranwell (RAFCC), United Kingdom (UK). Flying Officer David Sangokoya attended the Modularised Initial Officers’ Training (MIOT) Course 22 as a cadet from March to September 2023, emerging as the Best International Cadet on the Course. “The RAFCC graduates up to eight courses yearly, and the International Sword of Honour goes to the most outstanding amongst the award-winning international cadets for the year.” According to the statement, the award was presented by Prince of Wale

BREAKING NEWS: Youths of Ikot Ansa Nab Vandals Destroying Public Utilities, Hand Over to Authorities for Prosecution

  In a combined effort to curb the rampant vandalism of public utilities in Cross River State, the youth leader of Ikot Ansa, Prince, Victor Otu Iso JR, alongside his community, successfully apprehended criminals involved in the destruction of vital public infrastructure. The vandals were caught red-handed this morning, 13th day of September 2024, as they attempted to steal Amor cables belonging to state transformers at Ekpo Iso. Acting swiftly, the youth leader invited the Special Adviser on Public Utilities, Engr. Dr. Jerome Egbe KSM, and his counterpart on General Duties, Barr. Ekpenyong Akiba, to the scene. The Special Advisers arrived promptly, accompanied by operatives of the Nigerian Police Force from the Federal Division, and took custody of the criminals. The suspects have since been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID) for further interrogation and prosecution. While addressing the youths of Ikot Ansa, Engr. Dr. Egbe and Barr. Akiba commended their

Naira Depreciates to N1,655 per Dollar in Parallel Market, NAFEM Rate Narrows

  By Elizabeth Adegbesan The Naira yesterday depreciated to N1,655 per dollar in the parallel market from N1,645 per dollar traded on Wednesday. Similarly, the Naira yesterday depreciated to N1,649.76 per dollar in the Nigerian Autonomous Foreign Exchange Market, NAFEM. Data from FMDQ showed that the indicative exchange rate for NAFEM rose to N1,649.76 per dollar from N1,558.75 per dollar on Wednesday, indicating N91.01 depreciation for the naira. Consequently, the margin between the parallel market and NAFEM rate narrowed to N5.24 per dollar from N86.25 per dollar the previous day.

Vice President of Dangote Industries Laments Local Marketers' Boycott of Refinery Products, As 97% Remain Unsold

  By Melvin Onwubuke The Vice President of Dangote Industries Limited, Devakumar V.G. Edwin has voiced frustration over the boycott of Dangote Refinery’s products by local marketers, noting that despite the Dangote Refinery’s substantial production capacity, local marketers are purchasing only about 3% of its output. Speaking in an X space, Edwin disclosed that despite the refinery’s efforts to offer affordable petroleum products, many Nigerian traders continue to import refined products rather than sourcing from the local refinery. “The whole purpose of doing this refinery in Nigeria was to utilize our local crude instead of exporting raw materials and importing finished products. We should be able to refine and use the finished products within Nigeria and produce more to export the surplus,” he explained.

28 year-Old Nigerian Nurse Sentenced for Leaving Her Baby to Die in UK

A Nigerian woman who left her infant son alone to die in a nurse's accommodation in the United Kingdom has been sentenced to prison. The nurse, 28-year-old Ruth Auta, was sentenced for leaving her 10-week-old son, Joshua Akerele, alone in her accommodation at the Royal Bolton Hospital, UK, while she went to work. Reports state that Ruth left the accommodation at around 6:30 am on December 20, 2022, and returned more than eight hours later. When she returned in the afternoon, Ruth quickly called an ambulance, reporting that her son was no longer breathing. Despite several attempts to revive him, Joshua was pronounced dead that evening. Following the incident, Ruth tried to flee the country after pleading guilty in court to neglecting her son. The Bolton Crown Court sentenced her to three years in prison. Tragically, the cause of Joshua's death remains undetermined. The court noted that he was a healthy baby, but they could not identify the exact reason for his death. There were

Governor Fintiri Visits Maiduguri, Pledges Support for Flood Victims and Urges Swift Federal Action

  By Hannah Johnson The Governor of Adamawa State, Ahmadu Fintiri, on Thursday visited Maiduguri to show solidarity with the victims of the recent devastating floods that have ravaged the city. The Governor, who was moved by the scale of destruction and loss of life, described the scene as “truly heartbreaking”. The floods, triggered by the collapse of the Alau Dam and heavy rainfall, have resulted in significant loss of lives, homes, and livelihoods. Fintiri also pledged essential resources to aid recovery efforts in Borno State. He called on the federal government and all stakeholders to take swift action to prevent future occurrences of such disasters. He said, “Today, I visited Maiduguri to stand in solidarity with our brothers and sisters affected by the devastating floods. What I saw was truly heartbreaking—the loss of lives, homes, and livelihoods. “Adamawa State stands with Borno in this difficult time. We’ve provided essential resources to aid recovery efforts, and I urge the

Chevron Opens Employment Portal for New Applicants

  Chevron, a leading multinational energy corporation, has officially launched its employment portal, inviting qualified applicants from across the country to apply for various job openings. This move is part of the company’s ongoing commitment to create job opportunities and invest in local talent. The open portal provides opportunities in various fields, including engineering, project management, finance, human resources, and operations. Candidates are encouraged to apply online by visiting the official Chevron employment portal, where they can submit their applications, upload relevant documents, and monitor the status of their submissions. Chevron’s initiative comes at a time when job creation is a top priority for both private and public sectors, aiming to reduce unemployment rates in the country. The company is looking for candidates who are innovative, team-oriented, and committed to achieving excellence in their respective fields. Interested applicants are urged to review the j

Why I Floated Educational Support Grant Initiative in Yala II State Constituency-Dr Martins Achadu

Ugo Solomon, Calabar Honourable Dr Martins Achadu, the House Committee Chairman on Education and the member representing Yala II State Constituency in the Cross River State House of Assembly has advanced reasons for floating an Educational Support Grant Empowerment Scheme for constituents.   Flanked by his colleagues;Hon Samuel Neji Abeng the Minority Leader and member Ikom 1 as well as Hon Kingsley Ntui: member Etung and Chairman committee on water resources during the presentation of cash gifts to beneficiaries at the Assembly Complex yesterday in Calabar, Dr Achadu who had lectured at the University of Calabar said the initiative was propelled by an understanding that education can bring community development across Ukelle . "If communities must develop, you start with education especially in professional courses. We are doing this to ensure that people are not just encouraged only by words of mouth but financially too". According to Dr Achadu whose benevolence is a waters

Governor Zulum Distributes Relief Materials to Flood Victims in Maiduguri

  Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, on Thursday, September 12, distributed relief materials to people affected by the Maiduguri flood. According to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the flood has claimed 37 lives. They also reported that nearly 500,000 people have been displaced due to the flood, and the number may rise as many are still stranded in their homes. Approximately 40% of Maiduguri has been damaged by the floods, which have destroyed hospitals, zoos, farms, and other places.

GOV UMO ENO TO SUPPORT 100, 000 YOUTHS WITH DIFFERENT EMPOWERMENT SCHEMES

  ...to create separate Ministry for Youth Development Governor Umo Eno has presented a new charter of empowerment for one hundred thousand (100,000) youths across the 31 Local Government Areas of the State beginning from October 2024. Governor Eno presented the audacious plan at a youth appreciation and engagement rally held at the Uyo Township Stadium to express State Government's gratitude to the youths for their non-participation in the recent #Endbadgovernance protest.  He directed the Ministry of Labour and Manpower Development and the office of the Senior Special Assistant on ICT to create a database for youth employment through which names, based on required qualifications, will be harvested for employment both by the State government, investors and other organisations operating in the State. The Governor explained that 60, 000 youths (5000 monthly) will be selected from the database for a one off business support scheme of N50, 000 each within 12 calendar months. In additi

38-Year-Old Man Found Dead in Nasarawa School Classroom Following Alleged Marital Infidelity

  A tragic incident occurred in the Karu Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, where a 38-year-old man, Gabriel Magaji, reportedly took his own life following accusations of his wife’s infidelity. The event took place in the Masaka area on Monday. According to the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Nansel Ramhan, the discovery was made after a staff member of Crystal School Masaka reported to the police around 7 am. The unidentified man, later confirmed to be Magaji, was found hanging inside one of the classrooms. The Divisional Police Officer (DPO) and his team responded promptly, untied the body, and transported it to the General Hospital Mararaba, where doctors confirmed the man’s death. His body has since been placed in the hospital morgue. Although no suicide note was found at the scene, the police have launched an investigation to determine the actual cause of death. They are working to gather more details about the circumstances leading up to the tragic event. In the meanti

37 Dead, Over Half a Million Displaced as Flood Ravages Maiduguri, Borno State

  Authorities in Nigeria have confirmed that 37 people have died as a result of the flooding in Maiduguri, Borno State. The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) told the Detailing News that the flood has displaced over half a million people from their homes, with some still trapped in the floodwaters. In Maiduguri, the state capital where the flood has damaged about 40 percent of the city, rescue operations are still ongoing to assist those affected. The floods have also destroyed hospitals, zoos, and farms. Meanwhile, eight internally displaced persons (IDP) camps have been established in Maiduguri to provide shelter for those affected. This is the worst flooding the Northeastern city has experienced in the past thirty years.

Early Childhood Educator Enhances Cognitive Development Through Playful Learning

  In Sierra Leone, where three-quarters of children miss out on preschool education, Evette, a trained Early Childhood Development (ECD) educator, stands as a beacon of hope. Through her creative approach, Evette teaches children literacy, numeracy, sounds, rhymes, and poems, incorporating singing and dancing to boost their cognitive and socio-emotional development. UNICEF, with support from the Global Partnership for Education (GPE) and the Open Society Initiative for West Africa, has been working to make preschool education more accessible. They've constructed 59 ECD centers and trained over 560 pre-primary teachers, including Evette. The initiative aims to improve school readiness for over 306,000 young learners by 2027, helping to shape their future through early education. Evette’s passion for playful teaching has transformed the learning environment, ensuring that children in her care not only learn but thrive.

Cross River Special Adviser on Public Utilities Condemns Water Meter Vandalization, Calls for Heightened Security Measures

  In an exclusive interview with a Detailing News correspondent, the Special Adviser on Public Utilities to the Governor of Cross River State, Engr. Dr. Jerome Egbe KSM, expressed concern over the ongoing vandalization of water meters belonging to the Cross River State Water Board Limited. This criminal activity has been labelled as disheartening and unacceptable by the Special Adviser, whose office is responsible for service delivery, infrastructure sustainability, community engagement, and public utility compliance. Engr. Dr. Egbe, while addressing the issue, condemned the actions of the vandals and called on them to desist and support the state's development.  He emphasized the remarkable efforts of the amiable Governor, Sen. Sweet Prince Bassey Edet Otu, in revolutionizing Cross River State through the provision of critical infrastructure, noting that these efforts must not be undermined by criminal activities. “We can no longer tolerate the reckless destruction of public facil

Chief Bassey Ikoi Leads Mass Defection to APC in Cross River State, Lauds Senator Eteng Jonah Williams' Developmental Strides

  Several members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) officially defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) today, September 9, 2024, at Mkpani-Agoi Ward, in Yakurr Local Government Area of Cross River State. Leading the group of defectors was Chief Bassey O. Ikoi, the Obol Nkama 1 of Mkpani and a former PDP chieftain. Chief Ikoi, along with a considerable number of his supporters, crossed over to the ruling APC, citing their growing admiration for the progressive strides made by APC leaders in the State.  Particularly, he lauded the achievements of Senator Eteng Jonah Williams, who has been at the forefront of developmental initiatives in Central Senatorial District, including the empowerment of the youth, provision of scholarships, light up Central initiative, Healthcare Outreach and others. "Senator Williams's accessibility and commitment to the people of Central Senatorial Districts are My key motivators for My decision to switch parties".  According to him, th

His Youthfulness OBOL Comr Emmanuel Olayi thanks God for election victory, Donates Signage post to primary school

The Cross River State Chairman of National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), His youthfulness Obol Comr. Emmanuel Olayi today enjoyed the presence of youths of Cross River State, the political class, appointees of Government, royal fathers, academia's and business men who joined him in his thanksgiving service at the SS Peter and Paul Catholic Church Alumoye Bekwarra Local Government Area of Cross River State. Comr. Emmanuel Olayi who expressed deep appreciation to God for aiding his emergence as State Chairman of National Youth Council of Nigeria In Cross River State, declared that his victory at the election was divinely fashioned by God, as himself had no ability or resources to earn his victory through human effort. During the reception, the former Vice Chancellor of the University of Calabar, Prof. Zana Akpagu who was chairman of the occasion, described Comr. Olayi as a young man that is humble, Industrious and intentional about success, charged the royal fathers and the entire

Senator Eteng Jonah Williams: Benignly taking action to better Central Senatorial District

  Senator Eteng Jonah Williams, a legislator par excellence and former Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, exemplifies a deep understanding of his legislative responsibilities. Over the past year, he has demonstrated unwavering commitment in fulfilling his role through the sponsorship of bills, active participation in debates, and diligent involvement in oversight functions. Furthermore, he has ensured that the interests of his constituents are well-represented in national policymaking. As an active member of various standing and ad-hoc committees, Senator Williams has contributed significantly to oversight functions, playing a crucial role in scrutinizing government operations. Some of his notable oversight activities include: 1. Kaztec Engineering Limited's Oil and Gas Fabrication Yard Senator Williams visited Snake Island, Ilashe, Lagos, to oversee the resuscitation of Kaztec’s $1 billion moribund project, a crucial step toward revitalizing Nigeria's oil and

Senator Eteng Jonah Williams: Championing all-round development in Central Senatorial District

 It was Jim Stovall who said "You need to be aware of what others are doing, applaud their efforts, acknowledge their successes, and encourage them in their pursuits. When we all help one another, everybody wins.”  The above is the reason why I have keenly followed Senator Eteng Jonah Williams activities as the Senator Representing Central Senatorial District.  The name Senator Eteng Jonah Williams, is today synonymous with visionary leadership for consistently demonstrating unwavering commitment to development of various facets of the Central Senatorial District. His initiatives towards development, span various sectors and highlights his determination to uplifting the living standard of his constituents, setting an example of what dedicated public service should embody.  One of Senator Williams's agenda is Education. His scholarship scheme that started many years ago before venturing into politics.  As a Senator, Williams  has awarded scholarship grants of 200 thousand Naira