Cloned Nigerian Anchor

Author: Caroline Ameh

  • JAMB Issues Stern Warning to Parents, Stay Clear of CBT Centers or risk arrest

    JAMB Issues Stern Warning to Parents, Stay Clear of CBT Centers or risk arrest

    The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has taken decisive action to clamp down on exam malpractice by issuing a stern warning to all Computer-Based Test (CBT) center owners.

    In a recent briefing held in Abuja, Professor Is-haq Oloyede, the Registrar of JAMB, underscored the gravity of the situation and the necessity of stringent measures.

    Professor Oloyede emphasized that parents found near any CBT facility during the 2024 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) would face immediate arrest. This move, he explained, was prompted by the discovery that many such parents have been involved in facilitating exam malpractices or disrupting exams in the past.

    In no uncertain terms, Professor Oloyede stated that any parent caught disobeying this directive would not only be apprehended but would also face disqualification for their ward from sitting the examination.

    Furthermore, the Registrar revealed that security operatives have been instructed to collaborate closely with CBT centers to apprehend any meddlesome parent attempting to interfere with the examination process.

    Warning candidates of the consequences, Professor Oloyede cautioned that those whose personal details are found on fraudulent websites would be treated as accomplices and subject to prosecution.

    In a call to action, the Registrar urged CBT center owners to uphold integrity and eschew any unethical behavior, emphasizing that failure to do so could result in missed opportunities.

    Expressing the Board’s unwavering commitment to maintaining the integrity of the examination, Professor Oloyede revealed that state-of-the-art technologies have been deployed to detect and prevent various forms of infractions and collaborations that run counter to the Board’s code of operations.

  • President Tinubu Declares April 7 as National Police Day

    President Tinubu Declares April 7 as National Police Day

    President Bola Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, has declared April 7 as National Police Day. The event, held at the Transcorp Hilton, Abuja, highlighted the administration’s commitment to revitalizing the nation’s police force.

    President Tinubu emphasized the necessity for a comprehensive overhaul of the institutional mindset and ethos within the police force, stating, “My administration will ensure that police officers are equipped with the knowledge, skills, values, and expertise required to tackle the complex challenges of modern policing.”

    Furthermore, he disclosed the government’s decision to designate the first week of April as Police Week, with April 7 marking the culmination as National Police Day.

    President Tinubu underscored the importance of honoring the sacrifices of law enforcement personnel, stating, “Your exemplary valor doesn’t only represent the pinnacle of patriotism that binds us but also instils confidence that brighter days lie just beyond the horizon.”

    The President’s remarks also highlighted key initiatives aimed at rejuvenating the police force, including investments in training, capacity-building, and upgrading equipment and technology.

    He assured, “These endeavors will be supported by suitable measures to enhance the status of our officers and personnel both during their service and after retirement.”

    In his address, President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, commended the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, for recognizing the hard work, resilience, and patriotism of police officers. He emphasized the significance of celebrating the nation’s unsung heroes and urged for the removal of any misconduct within the force, stating, “As we commend the good officers, let us weed out the bad ones among the Police Force as, to whom much is given, much is expected.”

    The declaration of National Police Day and the broader reforms initiated by President Tinubu’s administration signify a pivotal step towards modernizing and professionalizing Nigeria’s law enforcement agency, promoting accountability, and enhancing public trust in the police force.

  • Senate and House of Representatives Gear Up for Return to Main Chambers

    Senate and House of Representatives Gear Up for Return to Main Chambers

    With the conclusion of the ongoing renovation in both chambers of the National Assembly, as promised last month by Visible Construction Company Nigeria Limited, handling the renovation work of both chambers of the National Assembly, plenaries will commence in the main chambers from April 23rd, 2024.

    Hon. Akin Rotimi Jr, Chairman of the House Committee on Media and Public Affairs, announced the planned movement to the main chamber in a written statement to 359 other members of the House of Representatives last week.

    The rescheduling of the resumption date, originally set for April 16th, to April 23rd, was necessitated by the need to resume plenary in the renovated and reconfigured main chamber, according to the House spokesman’s announcement dated April 4th.

    Similarly, the Clerk to the Senate, Barrister Chinedu Akabueze, postponed the resumption of Plenary from April 16th to April 23rd, citing the same reason.

    Tajudeen Olanipekun, the site engineer of Visible Construction, assured journalists covering the Senate last month that the main chambers would be ready for use by both the Senate and the House of Representatives in April.

    The completion of the renovation project, awarded at N30 billion by the Federal Capital Development Authority to Visible Construction Limited in March 2021, includes the rehabilitation of critical segments such as office buildings, the roof, cooling systems, and lifts in the complex.

    With the finishing touches and installation of state-of-the-art equipment and furniture, the Hallowed Chambers have undergone a significant transformation, signaling the imminent return of legislative activities to the main chambers after nearly two years of using temporary ones.

  • Preparations in Full Swing for Korea-Africa Summit 2024

    Preparations in Full Swing for Korea-Africa Summit 2024

    Officials from African Diplomatic Missions and South Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs Engage in Consultative Meetings Ahead of June, 2024 Summit in Seoul, Korea.

    As the summit draws near, officials from African diplomatic missions stationed in Korea and the South Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs have intensified their collaborative efforts to ensure the success of the upcoming summit.

    Scheduled to take place in Seoul in June 2024, the summit aims to foster closer ties and explore avenues for mutually beneficial cooperation between South Korea and African nations.

    South Korea, known for its robust trading relationships with countries such as the US, China, Japan, Vietnam, Turkey, India, New Zealand, Peru, and the European Union, is now eyeing expansion into the African market.

    The Korea-Africa Summit presents a unique opportunity to solidify trade alliances with African countries, with both sides anticipating significant economic gains.

    Ambassador Dong-han Yang, representing South Korea, emphasized the summit’s goal of forging future-oriented partnerships with African counterparts. He underscored the importance of sharing development experiences to invigorate growth in participating countries, leveraging the dynamism of African economies.

    With the theme “The Future We Make Together: Shared Growth, Sustainability, and Solidarity,” the summit will delve into strategic collaborations between South Korea and African nations. Key areas of focus include addressing global challenges, sustainable energy, infrastructure development, human resource development (including Technical and Vocational Education and Training), science, technology, digital transformation, people-to-people exchanges, and peace and security initiatives.

    One of the significant announcements expected during the summit is South Korea’s intention to initiate Official Negotiations for the first-ever Free Trade Association (FTA) with African countries. Currently, South Korea boasts 21 FTAs with 27 countries, none of which are with African nations. This move aims to rectify the imbalance and facilitate direct trade between South Korea and Africa, potentially unlocking substantial economic opportunities for both sides.

    The summit also holds the promise of reversing the current trade imbalance, where Africa constitutes only one percent of Korean trade with the rest of the world. African countries stand to benefit from increased access to the Korean market, bypassing intermediaries such as Vietnam, China, and India.

    President Tinubu-led Federal Government is among the countries eagerly anticipating the economic windfall from the Korea-Africa Summit.

    The summit’s sideline meetings present a platform for high-level engagements, akin to the G20 summit held in Delhi, where the African Union was conferred with a permanent member title. President Tinubu had the opportunity to engage with leaders from the US, Germany, and South Korea, signaling the potential for significant diplomatic and economic gains.

    The Korea-Africa Summit in June 2024 is poised to be a landmark event, heralding a new chapter of cooperation and economic prosperity between South Korea and the African continent.

  • EFCC Launches Investigation into Bobrisky’s Alleged Naira Abuse

    EFCC Launches Investigation into Bobrisky’s Alleged Naira Abuse

    The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Lagos Zonal Command, has launched a probe into the actions of Idris Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky, for purportedly spraying Naira notes.

    The investigation stems from a video circulating online, showing Bobrisky allegedly flaunting bundles of new Naira notes at the premiere of the movie “Ajakaju,” produced by Nollywood actress and producer Eniola Ajao. The event took place at Film One Circle Mall in Lekki, Lagos, on March 24, 2024.

    According to sources, this is not an isolated incident, as Bobrisky is suspected of engaging in similar activities at various event centers and parties on multiple occasions.

    Responding to the EFCC’s invitation, Bobrisky arrived at the Lagos Zonal Command on Wednesday morning, April 4, 2024, for questioning and provided his statements voluntarily.

    Upon the conclusion of investigations, Bobrisky is expected to be formally charged in court.

  • FIRS Issues Apology to CAN and Christians Over Controversial Easter Message

    FIRS Issues Apology to CAN and Christians Over Controversial Easter Message

    The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has extended an apology to Christians, particularly the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), following the dissemination of a controversial Easter message that sparked widespread condemnation.

    The contentious message, depicted in a flier featuring a Point of Sale (PoS) machine with the caption, “Jesus paid your debt, not your taxes,” elicited significant backlash from members of the Christian community.

    In response to the outcry, the FIRS issued a statement late on Tuesday, expressing regret for the misinterpretation of its message. The agency emphasized that the dissemination of the flier was not intended to denigrate Jesus Christ or undermine his significant sacrifice for humanity.

    “The unintended meaning/insinuation being read into the post was not what we were out to communicate as an agency,” the statement clarified.

    Furthermore, the FIRS reiterated its commitment to impartiality and respect for all religious beliefs, affirming that its primary objective is the assessment, collection, and proper accounting of revenue for the nation’s welfare.

    “We believe it is an investment in the progress of the country when citizens pay their taxes,” the agency stated.

    The FIRS concluded its apology by expressing remorse to CAN and all Christians who were offended by the unintended implications of its Easter message.

    This conciliatory gesture from the FIRS aims to address the concerns raised by the Christian community and foster harmony and understanding between the agency and religious groups in the country.

  • Despite Unreliable Power Supply, FG Approves Electricity Tariff Hike

    Despite Unreliable Power Supply, FG Approves Electricity Tariff Hike

    In a controversial move, the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has given the green light to increase electricity rates for customers classified under Band A, despite widespread complaints about epileptic power supply.

    Band A customers, who currently benefit from 20 hours of electricity supply daily, will now face a substantial hike in their tariffs. Mr. Musliu Oseni, the vice chairman of NERC, announced that these customers will be charged N225 per kilowatt-hour, a significant jump from the previous rate of N66.

    Addressing reporters during a press briefing in Abuja, Oseni revealed that Band A customers constitute 15 percent of the 12 million electricity users nationwide. He further explained that some customers previously classified under Band A have been downgraded to Band B due to their failure to receive the required hours of electricity from distribution companies.

    Oseni stated, “We currently have 800 feeders categorized as Band A, but this number will now be reduced to under 500. This means that 17 percent now qualify as Band A feeders, serving only 15 percent of total electricity customers connected to the feeders.”

    The commission also issued an order, titled April Supplementary Order, allowing for a tariff increase to 235 kilowatt-hours per hour.

    Despite the uproar over the tariff hike, Oseni assured that customers in other bands would not be affected by the review. The decision comes amid ongoing concerns about the reliability and consistency of electricity supply across Nigeria.

  • Malabu OPL: EFCC Dismisses Prosecutor Amid Bribery Allegations

    Malabu OPL: EFCC Dismisses Prosecutor Amid Bribery Allegations

    The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has taken decisive action against one of its prominent prosecutors, Offem Uket, in response to allegations of bribery and misconduct linked to the Malabu OPL 245 oil block scam case.

    Following the dismissal of the case by Justice Abubakar Kutigi due to insufficient evidence, the EFCC opted to terminate Uket’s appointment. It’s alleged that Uket yielded to pressure from former Attorney General Bello Adoke and defense attorney Wole Olanipekun to undermine the trial.

    Despite the setback in court, the EFCC remains committed to challenging the ruling, citing substantial evidence against the accused parties.

    Expressing dismay over Uket’s purported actions, EFCC Chairman Mr. Ola Olukoyede reaffirmed the agency’s dedication to pursuing justice in the Malabu case.

    Uket, who has previously handled high-profile cases involving notable figures such as Stella Oduah and Sambo Dasuki, vehemently denies the bribery allegations. Nonetheless, his contract was not renewed amidst the controversy surrounding the Malabu proceedings.

    An internal investigation reportedly uncovered evidence suggesting Uket’s misconduct, prompting the decision to terminate his appointment.

    In response to the developments, Wole Olanipekun vehemently denied offering any bribes to Uket, dismissing the allegations as unfounded and irresponsible. He emphasized that investigations conducted by international authorities found no wrongdoing in connection to the Malabu transaction.

  • Notice of Business Closure in Jos Bukuru Metropolis

    Notice of Business Closure in Jos Bukuru Metropolis

    An imbroglio may be brewing in Jos, plateau state as an association of Traders and Marketers, in collaboration IPMAN, NARTO, NURTW, and Tricycle Riders, have threatened to close businesses in Jos Metropolis today, Wednesday, April 3rd.

    The decision follows a series of unsuccessful negotiations with the Jos Metropolitan Development Board (JMDB) concerning the hefty fines imposed on violators of the new parking and offloading regulations for trucks, lorries, trailers, and tankers.

    This was made known in a statement signed by Secretary-General, Plateau State Traders & Marketers Association.
    Expressing grievances over the absence of alternative parking and offloading facilities, the associations have mobilized for a unified protest.

    As a result, all businesses, markets, shops, filling stations, workshops, and other establishments within the metropolis are expected to shut down on the specified date.

    Leaders of various trade unions and associations have been instructed to ensure full compliance with the directive among their respective members.

    The closure serves as an initial demonstration against the enforcement of the contentious parking and offloading regulations.

  • Former NLC President Ali Ciroma Passes Away at 72

    Former NLC President Ali Ciroma Passes Away at 72

    Ali Ciroma, a former president of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), has passed away.

    Ali Ibrahim Ciroma, a family member and Secretary of Borno State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), announced his demise in a statement.

    According to the statement, Ali Ciroma died on Tuesday morning at the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital in Maiduguri, the capital of Borno state.

    The statement read, “It is with deep sorrow that I announce the death of Comrade Ali Ciroma, former President of the Nigeria Labour Congress. The sad event occurred this evening (Tuesday, April 2) at the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital.”

    The burial ceremony for Ali Ciroma will be held tomorrow, Wednesday, at 4pm at his residence located at No.7A along Galadima Road near Muhammadu Shuwa Memorial Hospital (Nursing Home), Maiduguri.

    Ali Ciroma served as the president of the NLC from 1984 to 1988 until he was removed by the military administration of General Ibrahim Babangida, which disbanded the union.
    Despite this setback, during the Abacha regime, he was appointed as the Sole Administrator of the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers.

    The passing of Ali Ciroma is mourned by many within Nigeria’s labor movement, as he is remembered as a dedicated leader who fought tirelessly for the rights of workers.