Cloned Nigerian Anchor

Author: Doris Israel Ijeoma

  • Shettima knocks Badenoch for Nigeria Comment

    Shettima knocks Badenoch for Nigeria Comment

    “She is entitled to her own opinions; she has even every right to remove the Kemi from her name, but that does not underscore the fact that the greatest black nation on earth is the nation called Nigeria.”

    The Nigerian Vice President, Kashim Shettima however thinks that considering her exalted position as the leader of the UK Conservative Party, Ms. Badenoch shall have been more measured in her comments and not be so disrespectful to Nigeria.

     Badenoch, who has Nigerian heritage, recently advocated for stricter immigration measures, citing concerns over the strain on public services and societal balance.  

    Speaking at the Annual Migration Dialogue in Abuja, Shettima addressed her stance, acknowledging her success while rejecting her portrayal of Nigeria.

     He noted Nigeria’s global significance, emphasizing its growing population and influence.  

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    Badenoch’s previous remarks about her childhood in Nigeria have also drawn attention. 

    She described facing corruption and hardship before migrating to the UK, where she pursued better opportunities.

    While her narrative highlights challenges in Nigeria, Shettima countered by defending the nation’s resilience and potential.

    He said: “Kemi Badenoch, is the leader of the British Labour or Conservative Party. We are proud of her in spite of her efforts at denigrating her nation of origin.

    “She is entitled to her own opinions; she has even every right to remove the Kemi from her name, but that does not underscore the fact that the greatest black nation on earth is the nation called Nigeria.

    “One out of every three, four black men is a Nigerian and by 2050, Nigeria will support the United States, will be the third most populous nation on earth.”

    It must be noted however, that Ms. Badenoch is not the first highly placed Nigerian yo make such uncomplimentary remark about the country.

    Shettima’s principal, President Bola Tinubu is also recorded to have made a remark in the past that he did not believe in one Nigeria.

  • Court Refuses Bail for Yahaya Bello in N110 Billion Case

    Court Refuses Bail for Yahaya Bello in N110 Billion Case

    …The EFCC counters his bail application, based on the argument that it was ill-timed and violated legal standards.

    The Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja has declined the bail request of Yahaya Bello, a former Kogi State governor, citing procedural lapses in the application process. 

    Justice Maryanne Anenih ruled that the application was submitted prematurely, as it was filed before Bello’s arraignment or his formal custody.

    Bello, charged alongside two others by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in a case involving alleged laundering of N110 billion, appeared in court after his November 26 arrest. 

    The bail request, submitted on November 22, predates his November 27 arraignment, rendering it invalid under procedural guidelines.

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    While Bello’s legal team argued for his release, claiming he posed no risk of absconding, the EFCC countered that the timing of the application violated legal standards.

    The court upheld the EFCC’s position, rejecting Bello’s bail.

    In contrast, the second defendant, Umar Oricha, was granted bail on stringent conditions, including a bond of N300 million and property guarantees in Abuja.

    Until these terms are met, Oricha will remain in custody.

  • Illegal Bunkering: Court Orders Interim Forfeiture of Suspected Proceeds of Crime

    Illegal Bunkering: Court Orders Interim Forfeiture of Suspected Proceeds of Crime

    The Federal High Court in Abuja has issued an Order of Interim Forfeiture for properties suspected to be linked to unlawful activities, including illegal bunkering.

     The order, under Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/1488/2024, was granted on November 29, 2024, by Hon. Justice Nkeonye Evelyn Maha.

    According to the Nigeria Police Force, the properties, which include several vehicles and equipment, were allegedly used in facilitating criminal activities. 

    Among the forfeited items are multiple Toyota Camry vehicles, a Man Diesel truck, and other assets recovered from locations across Nigeria. 

    Details of the forfeited properties, including their registration numbers and recovery locations, were published as part of the court directive.

    The interim forfeiture was requested by the Inspector General of Police’s Special Taskforce on Petroleum and Illegal Bunkering.

     The task force is investigating claims that the assets are proceeds of unlawful activities or were used in the commission of such crimes.

    The court order allows any individual or entity with a vested interest in the properties to appear in court to prove why the forfeiture should not be made permanent. 

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    Interested parties have been advised to present their claims before the court within the stipulated period. 

    Failure to do so will result in the permanent transfer of the properties to the Federal Government.

    This development is part of ongoing efforts by the Nigeria Police Force and other agencies to clamp down on illegal oil activities and ensure accountability for crimes against the nation’s economy.

    The Nigeria Police Force has urged the public to report suspicious activities and promised transparency in the process.

    The Force Headquarters reiterated its commitment to upholding the rule of law and emphasized that all actions are taken in accordance with court orders and due process.

  • Labour Party Takes Legal Action Against Defected Lawmakers  

    Labour Party Takes Legal Action Against Defected Lawmakers  

    A case that further puts the integrity of the Nigerian judiciary to test is underway as the Labour Party (LP) begins a legal process to challenge the defection of four of its lawmakers to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). 

    The affected members of the House of Representatives are Tochukwu Okere (Imo), Donatus Mathew (Kaduna), Bassey Akiba (Cross River), and Iyawe Esosa (Edo).  

    The party expressed dissatisfaction with the lawmakers retaining their seats after joining the APC, describing their actions as contrary to democratic principles. 

    The Speaker of the House, Tajudeen Abbas, had announced the defections during a plenary session, which further fueled LP’s decision to act.  

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    LP plans to pursue court orders to declare the seats vacant, citing provisions of the 1999 Constitution that govern defections.

     The party also announced the creation of a “Hall of Shame” to publicly identify defectors and other public officeholders accused of betraying the party’s mandate.  

    This registry, aimed at discouraging similar actions, will reportedly be published widely to hold the defectors accountable and inform the public about such behaviors.

     The LP reiterated its stance against abandoning a party’s mandate without adhering to constitutional guidelines.

  • Oluyede Takes Over as New Chief of Army Staff

    Oluyede Takes Over as New Chief of Army Staff

    Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, today in Abuja, takes over as the 24th Chief of Army Staff.

    He replaces Lt Gen Taoreed Lagbaja who died recently after a brief illness.

    A formal ceremony entailing the lowering and raising of the command flag was staged at the Army Headquarters in Abuja on Monday to start off his leadership.

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    Oluyede’s appointment followed his nomination by President Bola Tinubu on October 30, stepping into the role after the passing of his predecessor, Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja. 

    His position was confirmed by both the Senate and House of Representatives, ensuring his leadership was officially endorsed.  

    Prior to this role, Oluyede was the Commander of the elite Infantry Corps, headquartered in Jaji, Kaduna.

     The 56-year-old officer was commissioned in 1992 and rose to the rank of Major General by September 2020. 

    His extensive military career spans years of service, and he shares a strong professional connection with his predecessor, as they were both members of the 39th Regular Course at the Nigeria Defence Academy.  

    The handover of the insignia of office by Chief of Defence Staff Gen Christopher Musa followed the provisions outlined in the Armed Forces Act, completing Oluyede’s transition into his new role.

  • NNPCL 2024 Recruitment: Candidates Ready for Interview Stage   

    NNPCL 2024 Recruitment: Candidates Ready for Interview Stage   

    The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) has advanced its 2024 recruitment process to the interview stage after completing the Computer-Based Test (CBT).

     The recruitment drive covers Graduate Trainee and Experienced roles, with successful candidates now receiving interview invitations via email.  

    The interviews will be conducted at NNPCL’s corporate headquarters in Abuja, with specific details about schedules and requirements to follow.

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     The organization emphasized that its recruitment process is grounded in fairness, assessing candidates based solely on qualifications and skills.  

    Applicants are advised to monitor their emails for updates and prepare adequately for the interviews to secure their positions in the next phase of the recruitment.

  • Tinubu Revises South East Development Commission Board

    Tinubu Revises South East Development Commission Board

    President Tinubu has presented a revised list of the leadership nominations for the South East Development Commission for Senate approval.

     The reshuffle, revealed on December 6, replaces several key nominees while retaining some from the initial lineup.

    Notable changes include Dr. Emeka Nworgu replacing Emeka Atuma as chairman.

     The board now features Stanley Ohajuruka as Executive Director of Finance, Toby Okechukwu as Executive Director of Projects, and Chief Sylvester Okonkwo as Executive Director of Corporate Services. 

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    Two new executive directors, Chidi Echeazu and Dr. Clifford Ogbede, have also joined the board.

    While the managing director position remains with Mark C. Okoye, former board member Donatus Eyinnah Nwankpa has been removed. 

    The revised list increases the board’s size from 15 to 16 members, signaling a broader scope for development initiatives.

    The nominations await Senate confirmation, marking the next phase in establishing the Commission as a platform for regional growth.

  • Detection of New Covid-19 Variant: FG Urges Precaution

    Detection of New Covid-19 Variant: FG Urges Precaution

    The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare has raised an alert concerning a newly detected COVID-19 variant known as XEC. 

    In a letter dated December 5, 2024, addressed to the Committee of Chief Medical Directors and Medical Directors, the Ministry disclosed that the variant, first reported in Australia, has spread to 29 countries globally.

    The XEC variant reportedly exhibits a growth advantage over previously circulating strains, sparking concerns about its potential public health impact.

     Dr. O. N. Anuma, the Head of the Teaching Hospital Division, emphasized the importance of heightened vigilance in healthcare facilities, urging hospitals to activate alert systems for early detection of COVID-like symptoms.

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    The Ministry called for robust collaboration among stakeholders to enhance monitoring protocols and facilitate timely data sharing. Effective coordination is considered vital for managing the risks posed by the new strain.

    In light of the situation, the Ministry advised the public to resume the use of nose masks in crowded places while awaiting further confirmation of the variant’s full implications. 

    This proactive measure aims to curb potential transmission and protect public health.

  • PETROAN, Dangote Join Forces to Secure Holiday Fuel Supply

    PETROAN, Dangote Join Forces to Secure Holiday Fuel Supply

    The Petroleum Products Retail Outlet Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN) has teamed up with Dangote Refinery to guarantee a stable supply of petrol during the festive season and afterward.

    At a meeting at the Dangote Refinery complex in Lagos, PETROAN leaders finalized plans to prevent fuel shortages across the country.

     This collaboration includes monthly fuel allocations for PETROAN members, flexible payment terms, and competitive pricing, aimed at making petrol available and affordable for Nigerians.

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    PETROAN assured citizens that measures have been implemented to avert fuel scarcity, thanks to joint efforts with Dangote Refinery and the resumed operations of the Port Harcourt refinery.

     The association also urged Nigerians to refrain from panic buying, emphasizing that hoarding petrol at home is unsafe.

    All PETROAN outlets nationwide are on standby to maintain uninterrupted service, reinforcing the association’s commitment to ensuring smooth fuel distribution throughout the holiday season and beyond.

  • Emir of Kano Palace Barricaded By Security Operatives

    Emir of Kano Palace Barricaded By Security Operatives

     

    Tensions have flared in Kano as the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, faced restrictions reportedly imposed by armed security forces. 

    The Emir’s palace was cordoned off, allegedly preventing him from attending a royal ceremony in Bichi Local Government Area.  

    The ceremony was meant to mark the presentation of a staff of office to the new District Head of Bichi. 

    However, heavily armed security personnel, including armoured vehicles, blocked the palace entrance, halting all movements. 

    Reports revealed the Emir, prepared to travel, was compelled to remain indoors as the situation unfolded.  

    Attempts by Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf to mediate were reportedly thwarted, as his representatives were denied access to the palace. 

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    Additionally, the Bichi event venue was similarly barricaded, leaving attendees and organizers in limbo.  

    The reasons for the actions remain unclear, fueling widespread speculation of political motivations. 

    Neither the Kano State Government nor the Emirate Council has released an official statement, while police authorities declined to comment on the matter.