NIGERIAN NOTCH

By Praise Chinecherem  Anambra state government has expressed confidence that the ongoing market stall digitization project would not only address recurring shop ownership conflicts, but tackle tax evasion among traders. Special Adviser to the Governor on Markets, Chief Evaristus Uba stated this when he received members of TJ&GP, led by Mrs Ugochi Ehiahuruike, Executive Director, Social and Integral Development Centre, SIDEC, the organization implementing the Tax for Service project in collaboration with Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), with funding support from Oxfam Nigeria. He said the digitization initiative was in the best interest of traders, as it would ensure seamless financial interactions with government. He said, "We want to revalidate ownership and digitize shops in the state. We would have each shop captured in the state database with the details of the owner, which will enhance smooth payment of levies attached to the shops. "T...

A devastating road traffic crash occurred yesterday February 14, 2025, being Valentine's day near the Area Command Junction in Nnewi, Anambra State, resulting in the loss of six lives while leaving four others injured. According to eyewitnesses, the crash involved a black commercial Sino trailer with registration number UKP-540YP,, a white commercial Mercedes lorry with registration number ATN-279ZK and three motorcycles without registration numbers.  The trailer, which was fully loaded with cement, experienced brake failure while descending a hill at high speed, lost control, and collided with the Mercedes lorry. It was gathered thatTl the trailer then crashed into a roadside shop, pushing the container shop into a nearby building. The crash involved six male adults, one female adult, and three female children. Two male adults, one female adult, and three female children lost their lives in the tragic incident, while as the time of filling this report one m...

President of the Senate,  Godswill Akpabio has described as the end of an era, the demise of  Afenifere Leader, Pa Ayo Adebanjo Akpabio in a statement he personally signed and made available to newsmen said he received with profound sadness the news of the passing of Pa Ayo Adebanjo, a renowned leader and elder statesman.  According to Akpabio,  "Pa Adebanjo's glorious exit at the age of 96 marks the end of an era, and as a people, we mourn the loss of a selfless patriot, who dedicated his life to fighting for truth, equity and justice. "His unwavering commitment to the principles of justice and equity has left an indelible mark on our nation's history. His leadership and vision inspired generations, and his legacy will continue to inspire and motivate us to work towards a more just and equitable society. "On behalf of my family, the people of Akwa Ibom North West Senatorial District and the Nigerian Senate, I extend my deepest condolences to Papa...

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has cleared 15 aspirants to contest for the presidential position in its upcoming national convention. The convention, scheduled to hold from February 23rd to 27th, 2025, at Old Parade Ground, Abuja, will see the aspirants vie for the top position. The cleared aspirants include: Anzaku Shedrack, University of Abuja Atiku Abubakar Isa, Abubakar Audu University, Ayingba Righteous Aondowas, NSUK Keffi Maiyaki Isaq Mohammed, Federal University of Technology Minna Benjamin Daoupam, Plateau State Polytechnic Agada Noah, Federal University of Lokoja Yusuf Umar, Nasarawa State University, Keffi Gambo Abubakar Mohammed, IBB University Lapai Godia T Adam, NSUK Keffi Eve Dominic, BSU Makurdi Olushola Oladoja, University of Jos Salahudeen Sulieman, University of Abuja Musa Mosses Atah, NSUK Keffi Jeremiah Friday, BSU Makurdi Mamud Abubakar, KWASU Malete Five aspirants, including Abbah Owocho from BSU Makurdi, were disqualified for fa...

In a surprise move, Cajetan Duke, the spokesperson of the Imo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has announced his immediate resignation from the position. Duke cited the need to focus on the broader interests of the people, rather than partisan sentiments. In a resignation letter dated February 14, 2025, and addressed to the APC State Chairman, Duke thanked the party for the opportunity to serve. He expressed his gratitude for the relationships built and the opportunities he had while serving the party. Duke's resignation was made public on his Facebook page, where he wrote, "Let's speak for the people, done speaking for the APC! A new dawn beckons!! Happy valentine my people! I'm Cajetan Duke." The former APC spokesman's decision has been met with mixed reactions. Barrister Kissinger Ikeokwu, a former Legal Adviser to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Imo State chapter, described Duke as a gentleman who was relegated in his pa...

As the 2027 presidential election draws near, the debate on rotational presidency has gained momentum, with the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) and Afenifere reiterating their stance on the issue. The ACF, the northern apex socio-cultural organization, has disputed the notion that the North is the ultimate kingmaker in presidential elections. According to Prof. T.A Muhammad Baba, ACF spokesman, the North cannot single-handedly produce a president, and the outcome of the election will depend on the voters' decisions based on the government's policies. On Rotational Presidency,  Afenifere, the pan-Yoruba socio-cultural and socio-political organization, has reaffirmed that there is a gentleman's understanding between politicians in the North and South for the presidency to rotate between the two zones. In the same vein the ACF has also confirmed that the North Not is not solely a Kingmaker it said that the ACF has disputed the notion that the North is the ultimate k...

By Izuchukwu Adichie I know he has a penchant for losing in every election he contests. He is aware that we know he enjoys losing elective positions. He will participate in the APC gubernatorial primary, come in last place, and then switch to campaign with the Zion Labor Party (ZLP), always embracing his reputation for finishing at the bottom. Obiora Okonkwo reminds me of a young girl who has just fallen in love—no one can give him advice to quit when it’s sour. So for Obiora, he will waste his money in the primary, and the rest will become history. Instead of focusing his energy on convincing the delegates of his party which has no presence in Anambra to support his candidacy for the main election—which he is certain to lose—, Obiora is currently preoccupied with seeking Soludo's attention and even challenging him to a debate. The same Okonkwo who couldn’t win Valentine Ozigbo in a primary election. Obiora has not learned from Anambra's political history; instead o...

By Izuchukwu Adichie For the first time in Anambra state's history, a sitting governor is boldly tackling criminality at its roots by addressing the social, economic, cultural, and family conditions that foster crime. Under this administration, communities are decisively reclaiming their territories and standing firm against criminals in their midst. Soludo understands that confronting the root causes of crime is vital for effective combating. His administration has made quality education free in all government schools for every child born in the state. He has also ensured that pregnant mothers receive free antenatal care and delivery services, including cesarean sections. Moreover, he has significantly impacted the lives of 80,000 individuals through digital skills training and has launched the ambitious "One Million Digital Tribe" initiative aimed at empowering young people. To date, 5,000 young individuals have been trained and empowered, with 8,300 current...

By Chinwe Onuigbo,  Awka  Barrister Ifeanyi Ejiofor, in the intricate world of law, where integrity and steadfast commitment to justice are paramount,  emerges as a formidable advocate. As noted by human rights advocate Daniel Okonkwo, Ejiofor’s career is a testament to his dedication to fairness, human rights, and an unwavering pursuit of justice, particularly for the oppressed and marginalized. A distinguished figure in the legal field, he has established a legacy marked by accountability, transparency, and brilliance, boldly defending those whose voices are often silenced. Ejiofor embodies the quintessential qualities of an exceptional lawyer: astute analytical abilities, meticulous attention to detail, persuasive advocacy, and the rare talent for forging meaningful relationships with clients. His articulate nature and capacity to draw logical conclusions from complex legal issues make him a formidable presence in Nigeria’s legal landscape. Recognizing that...

By Izuchukwu Adichie As November 8 approaches, the political space in Anambra remains unsurprisingly quiet. It is because the politicians who will be contesting against Soludo are headed toward an inevitable defeat -and they are aware. Their efforts are in futile, as none is capable of securing victory against Soludo and his party, the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), at their ward level, where grassroots support is crucial. What is particularly striking in this off-cycle election is the extent to which these politicians are going to fund their campaigns. Many are already borrowing large sums from banks, using their personal properties as collateral. However, the need for funds is not solely for campaigning; it is primarily to maintain their every election cycle status as “gubernatorial candidate”. Instead of seeking collaborative opportunities with Soludo’s government through public-private-community partnerships (PPCP) that could promote sustainable development acr...

The South East Development Commission (SEDC) has officially taken off, marking a significant milestone in Nigeria's regional development landscape. The inauguration ceremony, which took place recently, sets the stage for integrated and transformative growth across the South East region. In his inaugural speech, Mark Okoye II, the Managing Director/CEO of SEDC, expressed profound appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the trust and confidence reposed in him and his colleague to lead the historic institution. He also thanked the National Assembly, the Hon. Minister of Regional Development, and other stakeholders for their support.  Continuing, Mark Okoye II said, that the commission will not pay lip service to development in the South East as SEDC will prioritize action over rhetoric and results over promises.   "Our tenure will be built on transparency, accountability, and public participation. Every project will align with a clear roadmap and deliver measu...

A shocking case of baby trafficking has come to light in Asaba, Delta State, where a 26-year-old woman, Rachael, sold her two-week-old baby girl for N4 million, but received only N600,000. Rachael, who was paraded at the state Police Command alongside two accomplices, claimed she sold the baby due to her inability to cater for her. The baby's father had allegedly denied paternity, leaving Rachael to care for the child alone. According to Rachael, she was introduced to a woman who helped her sell the baby. The woman, whose identity was not disclosed, admitted to selling the baby for N3.5 million and giving Rachael N600,000. The buyer, a 42-year-old woman, claimed she paid N4 million for the baby, believing she was adopting the child through a legitimate process. The police are investigating the case, and the baby has been recovered. The incident highlights the need for stricter laws and regulations to prevent child trafficking and ensure the protection of vulnerable chil...

In a significant move, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, has announced that the National Identification Number (NIN) is now a prerequisite for accessing social services in Nigeria. This development is part of the federal government's efforts to provide digital identity for all Nigerians, a central focus of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration. According to Akume, the NIN will be required for vulnerable populations to benefit from palliatives. This move is expected to enhance the government's ability to provide targeted support to those who need it most. The Minister of State for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Tanko Sununu, has also reiterated his ministry's collaboration with the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) to ensure the seamless integration of the NIN with social services. The NIMC has been commended for its efforts in establishing a robust and inclusive national identity syste...

The federal government has announced the disbursement of N32.8 billion to over 169,000 indigent students through the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND). This initiative is part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration efforts to ensure that no Nigerian child is unable to attend a higher institution due to poverty. According to the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, N20 billion was spent on school fees, while N12.8 billion was allocated for student allowances. The minister emphasized that the program is transparent, straightforward, and can accommodate as many qualified individuals as possible. Key Highlights of the Student Loan Scheme are, s tudents admitted to federal universities, polytechnics, colleges of education, or technical colleges are eligible to apply.  The loans are interest-free, with tuition fees paid directly to institutions and monthly stipends provided for upkeep.  The entire application process is c...

Nasir El-Rufai, the former governor of Kaduna State, has made a startling claim that his political adversaries are plotting to arrest, detain, and torture him in the office of the National Security Adviser (NSA). Despite these threats, El-Rufai remains resolute, asserting that he will not be intimidated or forced into exile. According to El-Rufai, he has received credible information about the planned arrest, which is allegedly based on fabricated allegations. He expressed confidence in his imminent return to Nigeria, stating that he has nothing to hide and fears no one. El-Rufai also revealed that his friends, family, and political associates have been subjected to similar threats, which he believes are aimed at forcing him into self-imposed exile. However, he has decided to pause his academic pursuits and dedicate more time to confronting his adversaries within Nigeria. The former governor reflected on the historical context of political repression, noting that the arrest...

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has announced a review of transaction fees for automated teller machines (ATMs) across the country, effectively ending free ATM withdrawals. The new charges will take effect from March 1, 2025. According to a circular signed by the Acting Director of the Financial Policy and Regulation Department, John Onojah, the review aims to address rising operational costs and enhance efficiency within the banking sector. Key changes under the new review include: - On-Us transactions (same bank's ATM): Free withdrawals will continue. - Not-On-Us transactions (other banks' ATMs):     - On-site ATMs (within bank premises): N100 per N20,000 withdrawal.     - Off-site ATMs (outside bank premises): N100 per N20,000 withdrawal, plus an additional surcharge of up to N500.     - International withdrawals: Charges will be based on the exact amount imposed by the international acquirer. The CBN cited risi...

The federal government has reiterated its dedication to strengthening local governance and ensuring the full implementation of local government autonomy in Nigeria. This commitment was reaffirmed by Minister of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs, Rt. Hon. Zephaniah Bitrus Jisalo, at the Nigeria Local Government Development Summit held in Abuja. Jisalo emphasized that a strong and effective local government system is the foundation of national progress. He noted that the federal government, through his ministry, is ready to support initiatives that strengthen governance at the grassroots level, in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's 8-Point Renewed Hope Agenda. The summit, themed "The Supreme Court Ruling on Local Government Autonomy and the Future of Local Government Administration and Grassroots Development," brought together key stakeholders to discuss the impact of the recent Supreme Court judgment granting financial and administrative autonom...

In a significant development for the Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Anambra State, Dr. Chioma Irene Awuzie has been sworn in as the institution's 6th substantive Rector. The ceremony, which took place on Tuesday, February 11th, 2025, marked the beginning of a new era for the polytechnic. In her inaugural address, Dr. Awuzie outlined her vision for the institution, prioritizing anti-cultism, staff welfare, and academic excellence. She emphasized that cultism and its associated vices would have no place in the institution, and her administration would strengthen anti-cult measures by partnering with law enforcement agencies and community stakeholders.  Dr. Awuzie also assured staff that their welfare, training, and professional development would be top priorities. "We will foster an environment of inclusiveness, respect, and productivity, ensuring that every staff member finds fulfillment in his role," she said. The new Rector's guiding principles for the nex...

••• Demands for accountability from public officers shouldn't be given ethnic coloration  Former Minister of Lands and Housing, Rt. Hon. (Chief) Nduese  Essien has enjoined people to reject the ethnic undertones creeping into plan by anti-grat agencies to try the former Akwa Ibom governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel. Addressing journalists at his country home, Ikot Ibiok in Eket Local Government Area on Sunday, the former House of Representatives member denied any ethnic dimension to the investigation of Emmanuel. The Network Against Corruption and Trafficking led by one Fejiro Oliver from Delta State had petitioned to EFCC and ICPC, over an alleged mismanagement of funds by the administration of Udom Emmanuel in Akwa Ibom State, from 2015-2023, an action that has generated controversy in the state by a body called Ibibio Leadership Summit led by Solomon Johnny. Some journalists from private newspapers and some media aides of Governor Umo Eno are involved in accusing Senato...

Atiku Abubakar, the former Vice President of Nigeria,  yesterday paid a visit to his former principal, ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo, at his Abeokuta residence on Monday. The meeting, which lasted for two hours, however sparked speculation about Atiku's potential 2027 presidential ambitions. However, Atiku dismissed these rumors, stating that his visit was merely a courtesy call. Atiku arrived at Obasanjo's residence at 12:37 p.m., accompanied by notable politicians, including former governors Aminu Tambuwal and Liyel Imoke, as well as Senator Abdul Ahmed Ningi. The group was received by Otunba Oyewole Fasawe, an elder statesman and close associate of Obasanjo. After the meeting, Atiku declined to comment on his future political plans, emphasizing that his visit was not related to the 2027 elections. "It is a courtesy visit. I am not going to talk about 2027 or politics. I am not here because of 2027," he declared ¹. This clarification puts to rest specul...

.....Warns Against Human Rights Abuses The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, has banned police officers from carrying assault rifles while dressed in civilian attire (mufti). This directive was issued during a virtual meeting with strategic police managers, where Egbetokun emphasized the importance of upholding human rights and operating in approved uniforms. The IGP warned tactical squads against the misuse of power and improper dressing, stating that any conduct violating human rights will not be tolerated and will be met with severe consequences. He also prohibited the indiscriminate transfer of cases without his written approval, citing concerns over delayed justice and undue burdens on affected parties. Key highlights of the directive include that no mufti with assault rifles, as police officers are no longer allowed to carry assault arms while dressed in civilian attire. He also stressed that only approved uniforms should be worn by operatives  wh...

The Supreme Court has reserved its judgment on the appeal filed by the All Progressives Congress (APC) to nullify the outcome of the Local Government elections held in Rivers State on October 5, 2024. A five-member panel of the apex court, headed by Justice Uwani Abba-Aji, okayed the matter for judgment after parties adopted their final briefs of argument. The APC, through its lawyer, Mr. J. Daudu, urged the Supreme Court to set aside the November 21, 2024, judgment of the Abuja Division of the Court of Appeal, which declined to invalidate the election. However, Mr. Yusuf Ali, who announced appearance for Governor Siminalayi Fubara, and Chris Uche, who represented the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC), sought the dismissal of the appeal. In a related development, the Supreme Court dismissed an appeal filed by Governor Fubara to challenge another judgment that sought to compel him to re-present the 2024 budget of the state before the Martin Amaewhule-led ...

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has expressed concern over the growing trend of governors abandoning their states to live permanently in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory. This lamentation was made by the NLC President, Mr. Joe Ajaero, during a town hall meeting with workers at the NLC Secretariat in Lokoja, Kogi State. Ajaero noted that the NLC leadership had visited five zones, but unfortunately, met with governors in only one state, as the others were in Abuja. He emphasized that this absence is affecting governance and depriving the people of the dividend of democracy ¹. The NLC President also criticized the government's plan to increase telecom tariffs, stating that it would further exacerbate the hardship faced by workers. He assured the workers that the NLC leadership would convey their problems and demands to the governor. In addition, Ajaero condemned the proscription of labour unions in state-owned tertiary institutions by the Kogi State government, argui...

CP Ikioye Orutugu, the newly appointed 35th Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, has pledged to fully reclaim the public space across the state and maintain law and order. Speaking during a press briefing on February 10, 2025, CP Orutugu emphasized his commitment to addressing the rising tide of crime in the state, particularly ideology-based crimes that target unsuspecting members of the public, security personnel, and government infrastructure.  In his words, he said "In keeping with the vision to stabilize the security architecture in the State, I am on a mission to fully reclaim the public space across the State as well as maintain law and order. I intend to address the attitude of the people on ideology based on crime bordering on attack on unsuspecting members of the public, security personnel, abduction of persons and destruction of government infrastructures and other sundry offences." CP Orutugu also condemned the recent gruesome murder of three sibli...

In a significant development, CP Ikioye Orutugu has assumed office as the 35th Commissioner of Police in Anambra State. He takes over from CP Nnaghe Obono Itam, who has been redeployed to Force Headquarters as the Commissioner of Police in charge of Counter Terrorism Unit, Abuja. Born on August 3, 1966, in Brass Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, CP Orutugu joined the Nigeria Police Force on May 18, 1992, as a cadet Assistant Superintendent at the Nigeria Police Academy Annex Kaduna. He holds a BSc in Political Science from the University of Port Harcourt, a Master's degree in Public Administration from the University of Lagos, and a PhD in Sociology of Education from the University of Port Harcourt. Throughout his illustrious career, CP Orutugu has served in various states across the Federation, holding notable positions such as Assistant Commissioner of Police in charge of homicide Section Force Criminal Investigation Department, Abuja, and Commanding Officer Fed...