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Wike, 2Baba, others recognized among Africa’s Top 100 Peace Icons

Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), and the renowned veteran musician, Innocent Idibia, popularly known as 2Baba, have secured their positions on the prestigious list of the ‘100 Most Notable Peace Icons in Africa’.

This esteemed roster, which features outstanding individuals from various walks of life, was unveiled by the organizers on their official website on Wednesday.

The selection encompasses a diverse range of influential Africans who have utilized their talents, influence, and resources to champion and advance peace across the continent. Among the luminaries from Nigeria who have been celebrated on this list are former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha; business mogul Tony Elumelu; Mohammed Abdullahi, the Minister of State, Science, and Technology; Alhaji Imaan Ibrahim; entrepreneur Femi Otedola; Dr. Stephen Akintayo; Farouk Khailann; and Amina Mohammed, Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations.

The list also includes notable figures such as respected clergyman Pastor Jerry Eze; Dr. Daniel Moses; Mohammed Dewji; Mesfin Tasew Bekele; AIGP Aishatu Baju; Gabriel Aduda; Tein Jack-Rich; Tosin Eniolorunda; Dr. Oluwatosin Olatujoye; and Nollywood luminary Rita Dominic.

Ambassador Kinsley Amafibe, the Project Director for Africa of the ‘100 Most Notable Peace Icons in Africa’, congratulated all the distinguished Nigerians who earned a spot on this influential roster.

Amafibe explained that these peace icons hail from diverse backgrounds and bring various life experiences to the table, but they all share an unwavering commitment to the principles of peace and non-violence. He emphasized that their leadership, activism, and humanitarian endeavours have galvanized millions of people worldwide to participate in their movement and contribute to shaping a more equitable and peaceful future.

Amafibe acknowledged that the past thirty years have witnessed global instability, underscoring the importance of individuals dedicated to peacebuilding. He emphasized that these icons have demonstrated that peace is achievable and that each individual can contribute to a more harmonious world.

In recognizing these individuals, the ‘100 Most Notable Peace Icons in Africa’ aims to inspire others to follow their lead and work towards a world characterized by justice and peace.

The honourees featured in this compilation encompass political leaders adept at conflict resolution and diplomacy, activists who combat injustice and inequality, humanitarians offering aid and assistance in times of turmoil, artists fostering unity and harmony, real estate stakeholders providing shelter for the homeless, agricultural experts promoting self-sustainability, media figures disseminating accurate information, and financial experts contributing to peace and growth.

The roster extends its recognition beyond Nigeria, encompassing human rights advocates, African affairs commentators, political leaders such as Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame, Seyi Vodi, Hajiya Salamatu Muktah Josephine Nwaeze, Ayo Animashaun, and Prof Stevens Azaiki, among others, all of whom have played significant roles in the pursuit of peace and stability across the continent.

08/30/2023
Police arrest 6 persons for defiling minors in Kebbi

The Police Command in Kebbi State has taken into custody six individuals over suspicions of defiling minors. The State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Samuel Musa, disclosed this during a press briefing held in Birnin Kebbi.

Musa provided details of the incidents, stating, “On August 17, at approximately 1:00pm, Ahmed Muhammed from Koko town in Koko-Besse Local Government Area (LGA) reported that his 16-year-old daughter had left home for an unknown destination. Following an investigation, she was located in a certain area of Koko town. She revealed that five individuals had committed the offense against her.”

“She disclosed that Suleiman Abubakar, Yunusa Garba, Suleiman Hamza, Yahaya Abubakar, and Shamsudden Muhammed from the same address lured her to their residences on separate occasions and engaged in sexual acts with her. The suspects have been apprehended and will face court charges once the investigation concludes,” Musa elaborated.

Furthermore, Musa relayed another case, stating, “Yusha’u Adamu also reported that his niece was defiled by the same suspects. On August 21, at around 9:00 pm, Yusha’u Adamu of Aleiro town reported that on August 18, at approximately 6:00 pm, his 10-year-old niece was defiled by Saidu Sani, also from the same address. After the assault, the perpetrator threatened the victim with harm if she disclosed the incident.”

Musa added, “Moreover, on July 24, acting on intelligence, Hauwa Suleiman of Babbar Dogo Village in Maru LGA of Zamfara was arrested in possession of 566 rounds of 7.62x39mm live ammunition.”

The commissioner informed that the police effectively thwarted bandit attacks on Dan-umaru Village in Danko/Wasagu LGA, recovering a rocket launcher, while the assailants fled with gunshot injuries.

Musa concluded by urging law-abiding citizens to remain vigilant, promptly report suspicious activities to the police and other security agencies, and cooperate in maintaining the safety of their communities.

08/30/2023
Coup in Gabon as Army sacks Ali Bongo over disputed election

*Military generals nullify controversial election results

Another coup has happened in Africa after a faction of high-ranking military officials in Gabon took to national television to assert their control, asserting that the recent general election’s legitimacy is questionable.

They maintain that they represent the collective security and defense forces of Gabon.

In a televised address, the officers proclaimed the nullification of the election outcomes, immediate closure of national borders, and the dissolution of state institutions.

The capital city, Libreville, resonated with the echoes of gunshots, as reported by a correspondent from Reuters, right after the televised message was broadcasted.

Efforts to reach the government for a response were unsuccessful at the time of reporting.

The incumbent leader of Gabon, President Ali Bongo, secured a third term in office through the presidential election, garnering 64.27% of the total votes, according to the Gabonese election centre’s announcement on Wednesday.

The general election had been marred by delays, fueling allegations of fraud from the opposition. The Bongo family’s lengthy 53-year reign over Gabon could potentially be terminated if this power shift takes effect.

Presenting the results during the early hours, Michel Stephane Bonda, the head of the election committee, disclosed that Albert Ondo Ossa, Bongo’s primary rival, emerged in second place with 30.77% of the votes.

Bongo’s team promptly dismissed Ondo Ossa’s claims of electoral improprieties.

Tensions had already escalated in the lead-up to the presidential, parliamentary, and legislative elections held on Saturday.

While Bongo aimed to prolong his family’s 56-year dominion over Gabon, opposition forces pressed for transformative change in the resource-rich yet economically challenged Central African nation.

Apprehensions had escalated due to the absence of international observers, the suspension of foreign broadcasts, and the government’s imposition of internet blackouts and a nationwide curfew following the polls.

These actions have raised doubts about the transparency and fairness of the electoral process.

08/30/2023
Tinubu appoints new NDDC Board, Management

In a significant move aimed at revitalizing the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has given his approval for the appointment of a fresh Board and Management team.

In a statement by Ajuri Ngelale, Special Adviser to the President (Media & Publicity) on Tuesday, the newly constituted team will steer the NDDC towards a new phase of effective governance, aligned with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda.

The appointed members of the Board and Management team are as follows:

1. Mr. Chiedu Ebie – Chairman – Delta

2. Dr. Samuel Ogbuku – Managing Director / CEO – Bayelsa

3. Mr. Boma Iyaye – Executive Director (Finance and Admin) – Rivers

4. Mr. Victor Antai – Executive Director (Projects) – Akwa-Ibom

5. Ifedayo Abegunde – Executive Director (Corporate Services) – Ondo

6. Sen. Dimaro Denyanbofa – State Representative – Bayelsa

7. Mr. Abasi Ndikan Nkono – State Representative – Akwa Ibom

8. Rt. Hon. Monday Igbuya – State Representative – Delta

9. Chief Tony Okocha – State Representative – Rivers

10. Hon Patrick Aisowieren – State Representative – Edo

11. Mr. Kyrian Uchegbu – State Representative – Imo

12. Victor Kolade Akinjo – State Representative – Ondo

13. Chief Dimgba Eruba – State Representative – Abia

14. Mr. Asu Oku Okang – State Representative – Cross River

15. Hon. Nick Wende – Zonal Representative – North Central

16. Hon. Namdas Abdulrazak – Zonal Representative – North East

17. Sen. Dr. Ibrahim Abdullahi Gobir – Zonal Representative – North West

According to the statement, “the President’s intention is to foster a renewed era of successful administration within the NDDC, as part of his vision for the region.

“These appointments, effective immediately, are seen as a crucial step in advancing development and progress in the Niger Delta region.”

08/29/2023
Lawyer seeks IGP’s help on Spring Hall British School’s property issue

The Inspector-General of Police, Mr Kayode Egbetokun, has been called upon to intervene in the refusal of the proprietor and Chairman of Spring Hall British School, Mr Stanley Jegede to vacate a property located in the Maitama District of Abuja, after it was sold to new owner.

The new owner of the property, Moxie Communications Limited, through its lawyer, Barrister Victor Giwa, in a letter dated August 25, 2023, called for the intervention of the IGP to avert a breach of public peace.

He said after the property was purchased, the school was notified but Mr Jegede has allegedly frustrated and intimidated his staff on the premises through threats, bullying and other devices.

Barrister Giwa said, “Our Client by a DEED of Assignment and Contract of sales dated 13th of June 2023 respectively purchased the property described above from Mabon Estate Limited.

“The said property is used as school by one Stanley Jegede, the proprietor and Chairman of Spring Hall British School hereafter referred to as suspect.

“Our client on the purchase of premises and take over had notified the suspects through several letters of the desire of our client to renovate it premises on the bases of fit for purpose.

“Surprisingly, after several letters and discussion, the suspect has deliberately and with the intention of causing breach of public frustrated and intimidated our staff on the premises through threats, bullying and other devices.

These acts of the suspects have stunted the renovation work of our client on his premises.

“The suspects have refused and failed to remove items and belongings from our property to enable our client continuous work.

“This action of the Jegede Stanley is provocative, and capable of instigating serious resistance from our client’s staff and workers, which may eventually lead to break down of law and Order in the premises.

“It is on this note that we are writing to you for your intervention and arrest of the suspects for his action which is capable of breaching public peace and criminal intimidation.”

08/29/2023
NIHSA confirms closure of Lagdo Dam, cautions on possible floods

The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) has officially verified the decision made by Cameroonian authorities to halt the release of excess water from the Lagdo Dam.

Speaking at a press conference in Abuja, NIHSA Director General, Mr. Clement Nze, emphasized that there is no need for alarm or concern regarding potential flooding within the country.

Nze acknowledged that instances of flooding in key urban centers and coastal regions are primarily attributed to escalated rainfall and flash floods, a consequence of climate change. He emphasized that serious flooding and its associated destruction and loss of life could be mitigated by the proactive preparedness of relevant authorities, including preventing construction on flood-prone areas.

Each year, neighbouring Cameroon discharges water from the Lagdo Dam in northern Cameroon, flowing downstream into Nigeria, a practice that has led to flooding issues in the country.

It’s worth noting that during the dam’s construction in the 1980s, both nations agreed to erect a twin dam on the Nigerian side to manage overflow; however, this second dam was never realized.

Nze clarified that releasing excess water from the Lagdo Dam constitutes a standard reservoir operation aimed at averting potential dam failure. He highlighted that water releases are critical to maintaining dam stability and reducing flooding risks for nearby communities.

Elaborating on the specifics, he shared, “The Lagdo Dam is situated along the Benue River within the Niger Basin. The Cameroonian authorities initiated the release of excess water from the Lagdo Dam on August 14, 2023, starting at 10:10 AM. The initial water release rate was 200 cubic meters per second, amounting to approximately 18 million cubic meters of water daily.

“As of August 25, 2023, water releases from the reservoir were decreased to 50 cubic meters per second, a standard reservoir operation that poses negligible flood risk downstream. Moreover, on August 28, 2023, at 5:16 PM, the Hydrologist in charge of the Dam informed NIHSA’s Director General that they ceased water spilling by 11:00 AM the same day.”

Nze assured that NIHSA will maintain continuous monitoring of water levels in rivers Niger and Benue, with readings currently indicating no impending flood threats. He emphasized that NIHSA is tasked with delivering data for sustainable management of Nigeria’s substantial surface and subterranean water resources through collaboration with key stakeholders.

The Director General urged states to support the Federal Government’s initiatives by raising awareness about flood disaster prevention among their populace.

He stressed that flood prevention is a collective effort and that the government cannot achieve this goal single-handedly. He further urged states to prioritize thorough drainage system upkeep, construction, and enforcement of building codes to forestall calamities.

Nze provided updates on the Dasin Hausa Dam in Adamawa state, designed to serve as a buffer against floods during excessive water release from the Lagdo Dam.

He disclosed that the project’s study and design phases are complete, and the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation is coordinating with consultants to proceed with procurement.

Regarding the dredging of rivers Niger and Benue to curtail severe flooding, Nze acknowledged the substantial cost and the requirement for desilting. If executed effectively, this endeavor has the potential to replenish groundwater across numerous areas.

It’s noteworthy that 32 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) fall within the Highly Probable Flood Risk Areas.

These include Adamawa, Abia, Akwa-Ibom, Anambra, Bauchi, Bayelsa, Benue, Cross-River, Delta, Ebonyi, Ekiti, Edo, Gombe, Imo, Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Kebbi, Kogi, Kwara, Lagos, Nasarawa, Niger, Ogun, Ondo, Osun, Oyo, Rivers, Sokoto, Taraba, Yobe, Zamfara, and the FCT.

08/29/2023
FG sets to enhance rail sector for improved services -Alkali

The Federal Government has underscored its commitment to overhauling the rail transportation sector to ensure superior service delivery, aligning with President Bola Tinubu’s vision of creating a secure, accessible, and affordable railway network accessible to all Nigerians.

During an unannounced visit to the Idu Train Station in Abuja, Senator Sai’du Alkali, the Minister of Transportation, affirmed this dedication. Alkali outlined strategic steps to rejuvenate the railway system, including bolstering cooperation with the Military high command to enhance security measures along all railway routes.

Addressing concerns about the subpar condition of train coaches, amenities, lifts, and escalators, the Minister assured that comprehensive repairs would be expedited, ensuring they become operational promptly.

Furthermore, the Minister extended commendation to security personnel for their role in maintaining safety. He assured the personnel that any outstanding allowances would be settled without delay, and going forward, remuneration would be provided punctually.

Alkali reiterated that rail transportation remains the optimal means of travel, encouraging Nigerians to continue embracing it. He emphasized ongoing endeavors to align rail services with international standards and best practices.

08/29/2023
EFCC nabs six alleged internet fraudsters in Abuja

In a recent development, operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have taken into custody six individuals suspected of engaging in internet fraud activities. These arrests were carried out within the Bwari and Dutse areas of Abuja.

According to Wilson Uwujaren, the EFCC’s spokesperson, these suspects were apprehended on Monday based on intelligence gathered about their purported involvement in cybercrime-related endeavors. The arrested individuals have been identified as Odey Paul (25), Greg Odey (23), Julius Okpanachi (21), Ugbede Opaluwa (25), Okpanachi Emmanuel (25), and Mohammed Abba (26).

From the possessions of the suspects, law enforcement authorities managed to recover two Toyota Camry vehicles, one Mercedes Benz C300 car, a total of twelve mobile phones, and three laptops.

As the investigation unfolds and progresses, the EFCC spokesperson, Uwujaren, conveyed that the suspects will be presented before the court to face legal proceedings. The aim is to ensure that justice is served once the investigation is thoroughly concluded.

08/29/2023
2nd Abuja Airport Runway: We’ll pay N825.8m compensation –Wike

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, Mr Nyesom Wike, says the FCT Administration (FCTA) will pay N825.8 million as compensation for the construction of second runway for Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.

Wike stated this in Abuja on Tuesday, while briefing newsmen at the end of a closed-door meeting with members of the Jiwa community and other stakeholders.

He said that the amount would be paid through the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) for compensation and resettlement of the people of the community affected by the project.

He added that as part of the incentive, 12 people from the community would be employed by the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development and its agencies and 10 by FCTA.

He added that the government would also construct the Tunga Madaki bridge along with a five-kilometre road from the bridge to the community for easy movement of the people.

The minister explained that the project would be captured in the 2024 budget of the FCTA.

Wike also said that FCTA would equally provide a modern health facility to provide quality health care services for people of the community.

He said that an undertaking would be signed based on the agreement between the government and the community.

He identified the signatories as the permanent secretaries of FCTA and ministry of aviation, the Chief of Jiwa, the Chairman, Abuja Municipal Council and the Commissioner, Public Complaint Commission.

“If that is done today, and tomorrow or next tomorrow the money is paid to them, contractors will no longer delay. They have to move to the site immediately and commence work.

“So, the second runway has come to stay,” he said.

He said that the current administration was determined to ensure that the second runway was delivered.

He commended the Chief of Jiwa, Alhaji Isa Idris, for mobilising his people to attend the meeting to resolve the crises.

His counterpart, Mr Festus Keyamo, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, said that he met the issue on his table, adding that the project ought to have been delivered in July.

Keyamo said that the contractors could not be mobilised because of the issue of compensation.

Earlier, the Permanent Secretary, FCTA, Mr Olusade Adesola, said that the completion of the project requires the support of all relevant stakeholders.

Adesola commended Wike for the intervention to ensure a quick resolution of the issue.

Dr Emmanuel Meribole, Permanent Secretary, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, said that the project was approved by the Federal Executive Council in March 2022.

Meribole said that the project was awarded to four contractors in April, with CCECC Nigeria Limited as the major contractor.

He, however, said that the project was stalled because of the disagreement over compensation to the affected community members.

Earlier, the Chief of Jiwa, said that the ministry of aviation through its consultant had earlier pegged the compensation at N2.5 million per hectare, for the 12,000 hectares allocated for the project.

Idris further said that the amount was later reviewed downward to N700,000 per hectare when FCTA took over the discussion as the rightful authority to determine how much compensation to be paid.

He said that the community took the matter to the Public Complaint Commission with a view to resolve the issue amicably.

The community leader said that his people were concerned that the N700,000 being offered per hectare would not be enough for the affected persons to acquire another land.

08/29/2023
FCTA demolishes illegal market used for criminal hideouts in Abuja

The officials of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) on Tuesday demolished an illegal market called “Kasuwan Dare”, a suspected hideout for hoodlums and drug dealers in Asokoro, Abuja.

The market was located at Hassan Musa Katsina Street, near Kpaduma II in Asokoro Extension, Abuja.

Speaking after the demolition, the Director, Department of Development Control, Mr Mukhtar Galadima, said that the illegal market was becoming a threat to the residents of the area and passerby.

Galadima added that the area was turned into a haven for criminal activities despite relentless efforts by the FCT Administration to sanitise the area.

He added that the miscreants operating in the area were affecting the aesthetic quality of the entire environment, adding that the Administration would allow it to continue.

He said that area had to go because it constituted a security threat, adding that the area was also serving as a hideout for miscreants, drug dealers and men of the underworld.

“The operation will help us get rid of the hoodlums and drug dealers that have taken over the place.

“We had demolished the place about three times, but the nuisances rebuilt and continued their activities.

“This time around, the demolished market will remain demolished. We need to sanitise the place and enhance the aesthetic quality of the environment.

“It is also part of the current administration’s policy of sanitising the city, and this is one of the areas we are commencing the exercise,” he said.

Also, the Secretary, FCTA Command and Control, Mr Peter Olumuji, said that efforts would be put in place to ensure the safety of residents in the area.

The Village Head of Kpaduma, Mr Bitrus Yakubu, commended the FCT Administration for coming to their rescue and for ridding the area of hoodlums.

“The place has been here for over twenty years but today it has gone down for our own good.

“We are very happy as a community that the area is cleared for good,” Bitrus said.

08/29/2023