Cloned Nigerian Anchor

Author: Caroline Ameh

  • NITDA Warns Nigerians of QR Code Scams, Urges Vigilance

    NITDA Warns Nigerians of QR Code Scams, Urges Vigilance

    Nigeria’s National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has issued a warning to citizens, urging heightened caution when scanning QR codes amidst a sharp rise in fraudulent activities perpetrated by scammers.

    In a recent advisory published on its official channels, NITDA sounded the alarm on the growing trend of scammers exploiting QR codes for nefarious purposes, ranging from phishing scams to payment fraud and identity theft.

    QR codes, those familiar black-and-white squares containing machine-readable information, have become a popular tool for quick access to URLs and other data via smartphone cameras.

    However, NITDA’s advisory serves as a stark reminder to users to exercise utmost vigilance before scanning QR codes, emphasizing the importance of preemptive measures to thwart cyber scams.

    According to NITDA, scammers employ sophisticated tactics to carry out their fraudulent activities through QR codes. These tactics include generating codes that lead unsuspecting users to malicious websites or applications, initiating unauthorized transactions, embedding malware or data-stealing scripts, and harvesting personal information for identity theft.

    To safeguard against these threats, NITDA recommends several preventive measures, including scrutinizing QR codes from unknown sources, verifying their legitimacy before scanning, and using trusted QR code scanning apps with built-in security features. Additionally, keeping devices updated with the latest antivirus software and security patches is advised to enhance protection against potential cyber threats.

    In light of predictions by the Cyber Security Experts Association of Nigeria regarding an anticipated surge in insider threats driven by the malicious use of artificial intelligence in 2024, NITDA underscores the critical importance of bolstering cybersecurity infrastructure.

    This entails investing in advanced security technologies and enhancing the capabilities of cybersecurity personnel to effectively combat evolving cyber threats.

  • Lord’s Chosen Bans Tithes, Offerings, and Gifts from Suspicious Individuals

    Lord’s Chosen Bans Tithes, Offerings, and Gifts from Suspicious Individuals

    The Lord’s Chosen Charismatic Revival Ministries, a leading pentecostal church in Nigeria has announced a ban on accepting tithes, offerings, and other gifts from individuals suspected of being involved in cyber crimes, ritual killings, prostitution, and other unlawful acts.

    During the conclusion of a two-day Easter retreat themed “God’s Covenant of Peace and Blessings,” held at the ministry’s headquarters in Lagos, General Overseer Pastor Lazarus Muoka delivered the directive. He emphasized that such contributions are considered abominable before God and will not be tolerated within the ministry.

    Muoka underscored the ministry’s commitment to righteousness and the fear of God, stating that no donations stemming from illegal or ungodly means would be accepted.

    He urged those engaged in criminal activities to refrain from bringing their offerings, emphasizing that the ministry’s focus lies solely on soul-winning and promoting righteous living.

    Muoka explained that nothing that comes from illegal and ungodly means is encouraged in the Lord’s Chosen, as what matters is ones righteousness and the fear of God.

    He emphasized that accepting unclean money, is an encouragement to committing crimes and sinful acts.

    ” If you are here and you are into Cyber Crime, ritual killing, prostitution, fraud and other ungodly acts, please don’t bring your tithe, offering and other gifts to us, because we don’t need them.

    “We are only interested in soul winning, not such money which is not pleasing to God,” he said.

    Muoka noted that there is no short- cut to heaven, unless through righteousness and holiness

    “We are not part of those who believe that it doesn’t matter how you made your money. Here, we are interested in doing the things that will please God.”

    He advised those into various crimes to amend their ways and turn to God who has power to supply all the need according to his riches in glory.

    “When you have covenant with God, he will give you peace and abundant blessings, which no one can give,” he charged.
    The General Overseer stressed the importance of righteousness and holiness in attaining salvation, asserting that there are no shortcuts to heaven.

    Muoka encouraged individuals involved in illicit activities to repent and turn to God, who has the power to supply all their needs according to His riches in glory.

    Furthermore, Muoka condemned divorce and polygamy, reminding worshippers that marriage is a sacred covenant between a man and a woman, as outlined in the Bible. He urged those who have divorced and remarried to rectify their marital status according to biblical teachings.

    “You should not divorce your wife or husband because the Bible instructed that a man should have one wife and a woman, one husband.

    “It is a sin to divorce and if you have divorced your wife and married another, go and bring her back and send the second one packing. Also, as a woman, if you have left your first husband and married another man, pack your load and return to you former husband, because it is a since before God to divorce. Remember that a sinner is not a Christian and a Christian is not a sinner,” he added.

    The retreat, attended by worshippers from various religious denominations both locally and internationally, witnessed deliverance sessions aimed at alleviating poverty and various forms of sickness. Muoka reiterated his commitment to evangelism, aiming to win ten billion souls to God’s kingdom.

  • Cost of governance: Tinubu initiates the sale of presidential jets

    Cost of governance: Tinubu initiates the sale of presidential jets

    In a bid to cut the cost of governance, President Tinubu’s has announced plans to divest three aircraft from the Presidential Air Fleet (PAF), a senior official revealed over the weekend.

    This strategic move forms part of the administration’s wider efforts to streamline government expenditure. Presently, the fleet comprises a total of 10 aircraft, including six jets and four helicopters, with intentions to reduce the fleet to seven through the proposed sale.

    This decision mirrors a previous attempt made during the tenure of President Muhammadu Buhari to sell off two aircraft in the fleet, namely a Dassault Falcon 7x executive jet and a Beechcraft Hawker 4000 business jet, back in October 2016.

    However, the sale faltered after preferred bidders revised their offer from $24 million to $11 million, a sum rejected by the government at the time.

    To alleviate the burden of maintenance costs, the administration had explored alternative avenues, including the possibility of chartering some of the aircraft to interested governors to generate revenue.

    The fleet comprises various aircraft models, including Boeing Business Jets (BBJ) 737, Gulfstream G550, Gulfstream G500, Falcon 7X, HS 4000, Agusta 139, and Agusta 101. Notably, the BBJ 737 serves as the Nigerian Air Force One, exclusively utilized by the President for official travel.

    While specific details regarding the replacement of the BBJ 737 remain undisclosed, it is noteworthy that the aircraft was acquired for approximately $43 million during the tenure of President Olusegun Obasanjo.

    Escalating concerns over maintenance costs, which have soared to over $5 million in recent months, have prompted President Tinubu to take decisive action. The decision to divest three aircraft deemed the most financially burdensome is aimed at curtailing excessive spending on maintenance.

    Over the years, the presidency has allocated significant sums for PAF maintenance, with budgetary provisions ranging from N3.65 billion in 2016 to N25.7 billion in 2023. However, precise expenditure figures remain unconfirmed.

    Furthermore, in a separate move geared towards fiscal prudence, President Tinubu has enforced a three-month travel ban on publicly-funded foreign trips by Federal Government officials, with immediate effect.

    The utilization of the fleet falls under the purview of the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), ensuring efficient management and utilization.

  • INEC to Publish Particulars of Candidates for Edo Guber

    INEC to Publish Particulars of Candidates for Edo Guber

    The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has stated that it will be publishing the personal particulars of candidates vying for the Edo State Governorship Election, following the closure of the deadline for political parties to submit their nomination forms.

    Seventeen (17) political parties successfully submitted their candidates’ nomination forms for the Edo State Governorship Election before the deadline of 6:00 PM on March 24, 2024, when the dedicated portal ceased operations.

    This was contained in a statement signed by Mr. Sam Olumekun mni, the National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee.
    In accordance with Section 29(3) of the Electoral Act 2022, the personal details of the Governorship candidates and their running mates will be made public on Saturday, March 30, 2024, exactly one week after the submission deadline.

    Copies of Form EC9, along with all academic credentials and other relevant documents submitted by each candidate, will be prominently displayed at the State Headquarters and the 18 Local Government offices across Edo State.

    The commission emphasized the importance of thorough scrutiny by Nigerians, stating that any individual who participated in their party primaries and has reasonable grounds to suspect false information provided by a candidate can challenge the nomination in a Federal High Court, as outlined in Section 29(5) of the Electoral Act 2022.

    The Edo State Governorship Election is slated to take place on Saturday, September 21, 2024.

  • Ahead of Edo, Ondo Guber: INEC Calls for Media Collaboration Against Fake News

    Ahead of Edo, Ondo Guber: INEC Calls for Media Collaboration Against Fake News

    Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has emphasized the important role of media organizations in the fight against fake news and misinformation during the first quarterly consultative meeting held in Abuja.

    Addressing representatives from various media outlets, Prof. Yakubu underscored the importance of maintaining transparency and openness in the electoral process, particularly in the lead-up to the off-cycle Governorship elections in Edo and Ondo States.

    Highlighting the Commission’s mandate to organize, supervise, and conduct elections, Prof. Yakubu noted the extensive responsibilities involved in ensuring free, fair, and credible electoral processes. He provided insights into the recent flurry of electoral activities, including bye-elections and re-run elections conducted across multiple states.

    With the Edo State Governorship election scheduled for September 21st, 2024, and the Ondo State Governorship election set for November 16th, 2024, Prof. Yakubu outlined the preparations underway, including the submission of candidate lists and personal particulars by political parties.

    While expressing concern over the proliferation of fake news in the digital age, Prof. Yakubu reiterated INEC’s commitment to combating misinformation through collaboration with media partners.

    He urged journalists to scrutinize and report on political party primaries with the same diligence applied to main elections, emphasizing the critical role of primaries in shaping the electoral landscape.

    In addressing the challenge of fake news, Prof. Yakubu advocated for greater openness and transparency, citing INEC’s policy of engagement with stakeholders to counter misleading narratives.

    He reaffirmed the Commission’s dedication to working closely with the media and encouraged reporters to serve as guardians against misinformation, thereby strengthening democratic processes.

    Prof. Yakubu also extended his appreciation to all participants and reiterated INEC’s commitment to conducting free, fair, and transparent electionsas he equally called for continued collaboration between INEC and the media to uphold the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral system.

  • Northern Senators Forum Urges Immediate Action Against Rising Kidnappings in March 2024

    Northern Senators Forum Urges Immediate Action Against Rising Kidnappings in March 2024

    The Northern Senators Forum (NSF) has voiced urgent concerns regarding the recent surge in kidnappings across northern Nigeria during the month of March.

    In a release signed by Senator Abdulaziz Yar’adua, they condemned the escalating violence, particularly in Kaduna State.

    Citing a series of alarming incidents, including the abduction of 286 students and staff from a school on March 7th and an attack on worshippers in a mosque on March 8th, the NSF stressed the critical need for swift intervention.

    Furthermore, subsequent kidnappings on March 12th, 17th, and 18th, which resulted in 87 individuals being abducted in Kujuru alone, underscored the severity of the situation.

    Senator Yar’adua characterized the acts as reprehensible and called for immediate and decisive action to address the crisis.

    The NSF reiterated its unwavering commitment to finding lasting solutions and ensuring justice for the victims and pledged to exhaust all avenues in fulfilling its mandate to protect the welfare of the people and uphold national security.

  • President Tinubu Imposes Temporary Ban on Public-Funded Foreign Trips for Government Officials

    President Tinubu Imposes Temporary Ban on Public-Funded Foreign Trips for Government Officials

    By Caroline Ameh

    President Bola Tinubu has taken decisive action to curb government spending by instituting a temporary ban on public-funded foreign trips for ministers and other government officials. The directive, conveyed through a memo from the office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, is set to take effect on April 1, 2024.

    In the memo dated March 12, President Tinubu highlighted concerns about the escalating costs associated with international travel amid Nigeria’s challenging economic circumstances. The ban, initially set for a period of 90 days, aims to streamline government expenditure without compromising essential functions.

    “Mr. President has concerns about the rising cost of travel expenses borne by Ministries, Department and Agencies of Government as well as the growing need for Cabinet Members and heads of MDAs to focus on their respective mandates for effective service delivery,” the memo states.

    According to the directive, exceptions to the ban may be granted for trips deemed “absolutely necessary.” However, all government officials planning public-funded international travel must obtain Presidential approval at least two weeks prior to the trip.

    “This temporary measure is aimed at cost reduction in governance and intended as a cost-saving measure without compromising government functions,” the memo emphasizes.

  • Senate Joint C’ttee Holds Closed Meeting With Service Chiefs Over Killing Of 16 Soldiers…Security takes precedence over other sectors – Lawan

    Senate Joint C’ttee Holds Closed Meeting With Service Chiefs Over Killing Of 16 Soldiers…Security takes precedence over other sectors – Lawan

    The Senate Joint Committee on Defence, Army, Navy and Airforce is currently in a closed meeting with the nation’s Service Chiefs over the recent killing of troops in Okuoma community, Bomadi local government area of Delta State.

    The meeting which started at exactly 3:42pm has in attendance, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa; Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. General Taoreed Lagbaja; Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hassan; and Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla.

    Recall that the Senate, during plenary on Tuesday, March 19, 2024, mandated the joint committee to investigate the incident.

    The upper chamber also urged the federal government to ensure that those responsible for the heinous crime are identified, apprehended and brought to justice.

    The Joint Committee is chaired by Senator Ahmad Lawan, who is also Chairman of the Senate Committee on Defence.

    Moments before the commencement of the meeting with the Service Chiefs, members of the Joint Committee observed a minute silence in honour of the 16 Military personnel killed in Okuoma community last Thursday.

    Speaking on the incident, Senator Lawan in a speech delivered at the investigative hearing by the Joint Committee recalled that, “The troops of 181 Amphibious battalion, on Thursday, 14 March, 2024, went on a peace mission to Okuoma Community in Delta State. An incident occurred resulting in the loss of a Commanding officer, two Majors, a Captain and 12 Soldiers during the peace mission.

    “The troops on the peace mission to Okuoma community in Bomadi local government area of Delta State were surrounded by some community youths, which resulted in the death of officers and men.

    “Acknowledging the gravity of the attack on the military personnel, the Senate at its plenary on Tuesday, 19th March, 2024, mandated the Joint Committee on Defence, Army, Navy and Airforce to investigate the incident.

    “The Senate also urged urged the federal government to ensure that those responsible for the heinous crime are identified, apprehended and brought to justice.”

    Senator Lawan further underscored the need for the federal government to prioritise the issue of security, noting that same takes precedence over investment in any other sector.

    He described the killing of the 16 soldiers as “barbaric”, and appealed to Nigerians to support the Armed Forces by volunteering information that would lead to the capture and prosecution of those behind various forms of insecurity across the country.

    The former Senate President said, “We, in the Senate, and, indeed, the National Assembly, will always support our military in whatever way we can. [And] the National Assembly has that history. We try to at all times make meaningful appropriation for resources to be available. We know it has never been enough and, in fact, I will take this opportunity to commend our Armed Forces for doing so much with the little we can afford.

    “The insecurity in our country takes precedence over any other consideration and, therefore, it is the position of the Senate that no investment in any sector can be more important than ensuring that we are secured as a country.

    “We, therefore, are very sad as a parliament over this tragic incident. It is our hope in the Senate that those who perpetrated this barbaric and horrific act are captured and the law takes full course on them.

    “I want to appeal to Nigerians that this is our Armed Forces and they cannot secure us without us as citizens playing our part. Therefore, every citizen is supposed to support our Armed Forces. And those in the area where this incident happened must volunteer information because this is the only way we can stop something like this from happening another time.”

  • Nigerian Senate Urges Action to Address Out-of-School Children Crisis

    Nigerian Senate Urges Action to Address Out-of-School Children Crisis

    The Nigerian Senate has issued a strong directive, calling upon the Federal Ministry of Education, its associated agencies, and Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) to prioritize the plight of out-of-school children. The primary objective is to substantially reduce the alarming number of children deprived of education across the nation.

    The Senate stressed the urgent need for the formulation of innovative strategies to effectively combat the persistent challenge of out-of-school children. Moreover, they emphasized the critical importance of revitalizing national awareness through extensive sensitization and advocacy efforts, highlighting the indispensable role of education in Nigeria’s overall progress and prosperity.

    Senator Idiat Oluranti, representing Lagos West, spearheaded the motion, underscoring the troubling prevalence of out-of-school children in Nigeria. Senator Oluranti underscored the potential societal repercussions of this crisis, warning against the risk of vulnerable children being lured into criminal activities, thereby exacerbating existing security threats such as banditry and terrorism.

    During deliberations, several Senators voiced their support for the motion, emphasizing the necessity of prompt action. They urged relevant authorities to disclose accurate data regarding the number of out-of-school children, facilitating targeted interventions and resource allocation.

    In response to the motion, the Senate called upon the Judiciary in all 36 states of the Federation to take concrete steps toward establishing mobile courts for the enforcement of the Universal Basic Education (UBE) Act, signaling a commitment to upholding education laws and ensuring accountability.

    The motion has been referred to the Senate Committee on Legislative Compliance for comprehensive review and follow-up actions, reflecting the Senate’s firm resolve to address the pressing issue of out-of-school children and foster a brighter future for all Nigerian youths.

  • After Ningi’s Resignation, New Northern Senators Forum Chairman Emerge

    After Ningi’s Resignation, New Northern Senators Forum Chairman Emerge

    The Northern Senators Forum has appointed Senator Abdulaziz Yar’Adua as chairman.

    Yar’Adua’s emergence is sequel to the the resignation of suspended Senator Abdul Ningi.

    Senator Yar’Adua, represents Katsina central senatorial district and a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
    Also, Senator Tahir Monguno emerged as the spokesperson of the Northern Senators Forum taking over from Senator Ismaila Kawu. Monguno, a seasoned lawmaker representing Borno North Senatorial district.
    Monguno is tasked with representing the forum’s positions and articulating its stance on key policy matters to the public and stakeholders
    In his acceptance speech, the new chairman said he is aware of the challenges facing the Northern region which Include: Security, agriculture,education, healthcare, drug abuse and human trafficking. Others are so numerous to mention.
    “In advancing these noble objectives, I am committed to streamlined activities within the Northem Senators Forum. We shall operate with transparency, accountability, and integrity, upholding the trust placed on us by the electorate.
    “Our legislative discourse will continue to be characterized by civility, dignity, and adherence to the rule of law as we fulfill our lawmaking, policy-making,and oversight functions”, he added.
    The forum he also said will in consultation with other distinguished colleagues to preserve the unity and progress of the nation.
    The Northern Senators Forum, comprising lawmakers representing various constituencies across northern Nigeria, plays a crucial role in shaping legislative priorities and policies affecting the region. The forum serves as a platform for fostering unity, cooperation, and collective decision-making among senators from the northern states.