Category: Latest

  • My Convoy Was Not Attack By Boko Haram In Borno, Says Buratai

    My Convoy Was Not Attack By Boko Haram In Borno, Says Buratai

     

    …Says No Amount Of Malicious Propaganda Can Tarnish His Image

     

     

    Lucky Obukohwo Reporting

     

     

    The former Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. General Tukur Yusufu Buratai, has refuted the news making the rounds on certain online platforms that his convoy was attacked by Boko Haram in Borno State, saying that such news is the handwork of mischief makers.

    A statement on Monday by his Media Aide, Brig. General Sani Usman Kukasheka (Rtd) described the incident as fake news.

    The statement added that at the time of the alleged incident, Gen. Buratai was in Abuja where he celebrated the Eid festivities in the company of family, friends, and well-wishers.

    “In light of the recent mischievous and utterly false reports circulating on certain online platforms, I wish to categorically state that His Excellency Lieutenant General Tukur Yusufu Buratai (Rtd) CFR, Betara of Biu, Garkuwan Keffi, former Chief of Army Staff and former Nigerian Ambassador to the Republic of Benin, was not attacked in any way, contrary to what has been falsely reported by some online media outlets.

    “For the avoidance of doubt, he celebrated the Eid festivities peacefully in Abuja, in the company of family, friends, and well-wishers, and I have remained within the Federal Capital Territory since then.

    “This baseless rumour is a product of the reckless imagination of the purveyors of fake news, individuals whose sole aim is to malign him, spread fear, confusion and misinformation.

    “The fabricators of these actions are not only mischievous but also deeply irresponsible and must be condemned in the strongest terms.

    “I sincerely extend my heartfelt and profound appreciation to the countless patriotic and well-meaning Nigerians, friends, associates and admirers of His Excellency, who reached out with genuine concern, prayers and goodwill.

    “Your overwhelming show of love and support is deeply cherished and speaks volumes about the enduring respect and affection we are privileged to receive from across the country and beyond.

    “Let this serve as a reminder to the harbingers of fake news: that truth will always prevail.

    “No amount of falsehood or malicious propaganda can tarnish the image of a man who has devoted his life to the service of our great nation,” the statement added.

  • French Tourist Found Dead in Benue Hotel, Police Launch Investigation

     

    The Benue State Police Command has initiated an investigation into the sudden death of 67-year-old French tourist Pietier Gilles, found lifeless in a hotel room in Gboko on Saturday.

    The circumstances surrounding Gilles’ death remain unclear, as does the purpose of his visit to the historic town.

    According to DSP Udeme Edet, spokesperson for the Benue State Police Command, the incident was reported to a Gboko police station on Sunday. “A French national who lodged in a hotel in Gboko was said to have died, and this was reported to the command,” Edet confirmed, adding that investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of death.

    Sources revealed that Gilles checked into the hotel on Friday and fell ill the following day but reportedly declined medical attention. The hotel manager, Amina Cordial, told PUNCH she was out of town during the incident and lacked details.

    She noted that the hotel owner was present and likely managed the situation but declined to share the owner’s contact information.

    The mysterious death has raised questions in Gboko, with authorities working to uncover the events leading to Gilles’ passing. The police have yet to release further details as the investigation continues.

  • Delta Governor Threatens to Sack Council Chairmen Over Insecurity

     

     

    Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has issued a stern ultimatum to the 25 local government council chairmen in Delta State, warning that any chairman found wanting in managing security risks removal from office.

    Speaking in Asaba, the governor expressed alarm over the rising tide of insecurity, particularly kidnapping, which he described as “very disturbing.”

    Oborevwori emphasized that attendance and active participation in monthly security council meetings are “non-negotiable” for council chairmen, who serve as chief security officers of their local government areas. “If you are weak as a council chairman, we will remove you,” he declared, underscoring the need for accountability.

    He also warned the leadership of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) in Delta State that they would be held responsible for any lapses in conducting these meetings.

    The governor attributed part of the state’s security challenges to an influx of “undesirable elements” from neighboring states, particularly across the Niger. To address this, he announced plans to deploy technology to detect and apprehend criminals undermining the state’s peace. “We shall soon deploy technology to help engage these criminals,” Oborevwori stated.

    He urged council chairmen to collaborate closely with security agencies, local vigilantes, and traditional rulers to tackle kidnapping and other heinous crimes. “Security is a shared responsibility,” he said, calling on chairmen to leverage their local knowledge to enhance peace.

    He also cautioned youths against making inciting statements on social media, urging them to work with authorities to confront criminals in their communities.

    Oborevwori directed chairmen to report security updates either directly to him or through the Commissioner for Local Government.

    He stressed the importance of managing traditional rulers effectively, noting, “If I can manage all the traditional rulers in the state, you can manage those in your local government areas.”

    The governor concluded with a firm warning against laxity, citing the rising rates of drug abuse and social vices among youths. “We will not tolerate any form of laxity from any chairman. By the time we use one or two persons as examples, others will sit up,” he said, signaling his administration’s resolve to enforce accountability.

  • PDP Crisis: Wike, G5 Governors Hold Meeting, Vows to Rescue Party from Vampires

     

    Concerned Stakeholders of the main opposition party, the Peoples Democratic Party PDP Led by the G5 Governors are in a crucial meeting at the life camp residence of the FCT Minister Nyesom Wike to take a decision on the disputed office of the National Secretary of the party

    All the G5 Governors including the Minister of the Federal capital territory, Nyesom Wike are attending the Meeting except Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo state.

    The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Nyesom Wike who is presiding over the Concernced stakeholders meeting, a gathering of PDP leaders and party chieftains from across the 36 states and the FCT, told party leaders action has to be taken to stop those he described as vampires from killing the party.

    The Minister argued that the supreme court recognizes Sam Anyanwu as the authentic National Secretary of the party and those determined to remove him from office should wait for the party convention later in the year.

    The Minister cited different cases Justifying the decision of the National Secretary not to resign despite running for the office of the Governor in 2023

    He argued that the incumbent Governor of Taraba State Agbu Kefas did not resign as the state party chairman when he ran for the office of the Governor, adding that he only resigned after winning the governorship election.

    The Minister insisted that the party must abide by its on consistitution as anything short of that will be undermining the sacrifices of the party’s founding fathers.

    The Meeting has now gone into a closed session for further deliberation.

    A communique is expected to be issued after the meeting.

    Details Later….

  • Bishop Oyedepo Vows to Build 1,000 Churches Before He Dies

     

    Bishop David Oyedepo, founder of Living Faith Church Worldwide, popularly known as Winners Chapel, has revealed a lifelong vow to God to build 1,000 churches before his time on earth ends.

    The announcement, made during a recent sermon, underscores his deep commitment to advancing God’s kingdom through tangible contributions.

    Speaking passionately to his congregation, Oyedepo shared that his pledge predates his personal wealth. “Before I had the first bank account, I said, ‘Jesus, if you ever bless me, I want to be part of building new churches,’” he declared.

    He further expressed his desire to leave a lasting legacy, stating, “I told Jesus, I don’t want to come to heaven without a thousand churches built in your name.”

    Oyedepo challenged his congregation to examine their own dedication, pointing out unused resources like buses idle on Sundays due to minor costs. “If it’s in your heart, go put it in your heart,” he urged, emphasizing spiritual responsibility.

    He called for active participation, saying, “Everybody’s a reflection of where he belongs. It’s time you start reflecting what happens in here.”

    The sermon has sparked conversations among members, with many inspired by Oyedepo’s vision and resolve. His ambitious goal reflects his decades-long ministry, which has already established numerous churches globally.

    As Winners Chapel continues to grow, Oyedepo’s vow serves as a rallying cry for believers to contribute meaningfully to their faith.

  • Diphtheria: Edo Government Gets Delivery Of 90 Doses To Fight Outbreak

    Lucky Obukohwo, Reporting

     

    Edo State Government said it has taken delivery of 90 doses of anti-diphtheria vaccines, where 70 has been deployed to the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) .

    Recall that two people last week died of the infection in what seemed to be a resurgence of the ailment.

    The State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Cyril Oshiomhole said this shortly after donating the vaccines to the hospital where he said the state government has also gotten some doses from neighbouring Delta state but expressed worry that the disease is going beyond expected scope as people that have been fully vaccinated have been found to be infected including people beyond age five who are not expected to be infected.

    He said “We are working in collaboration with UBTH and NCDC (National Centre for Disease Control), we have spoken with the DG of NCDC and he graciously released 70 doses of anti-Diphtheria and we also reached out to Delta State Ministry of Health and they have been able to give us another 20 doses.

    “We are still studying the situation because some of those who are down with Diptheria have a history of full immunization, we also try to see why someone who is 14 years old have the disease, we are talking to the national body of the Primary Health Care to give us clearance if we can immunize children above the age of five because what is going on now, we might need to immunize adults including health workers”

    He said Governor Monday Okpebholo has approved the donation of beds and fittings and other items to the emergency centre at the UBTH and possibly offset the medical bills of patients.

    Receiving the Commissioner in UBTH, the Chairman, Medical Advisory Committee (CMAC) of the hospital, Professor Stanley Okugbo and the Deputy Chairman, Medical Advisory Committee who is also the Consultant in charge of Children Emergency in the hospital, Dr. Fidelis Eki-Udoko said the hospital was grateful for the swift response by the state government and that all diphtheria patients were responding to treatment as they urged the public to report symptoms early.

    They gave signs and symptoms of the disease to include “thick, gray membranes covering the throat and tonsils. A sore throat and hoarseness. Swollen glands in the neck(neck swelling) difficulty with breathing or rapid breathing. Nasal discharge. Fever chills, and tiredness.

    “Diphtheria is best prevented through vaccination and maintaining good hygiene.

    “The disease spreads through direct contact with infected individuals, often via respiratory droplets like those produced when coughing or sneezing.

    “Prevention is best done by washing hands with soap and clean running water is an effective step to prevent infection, one of which is diphtheria”, Oshiomhole said.

  • Ejeagha: Ngwo Ngwo Crooner Buried In Line With Wishes

    Lucky Obukohwo, Reporting

     

    Mike Ejeagha, the Ngwo Ngwo crooner who died few days ago has had his remains buried according to his final wishes.

    He was buried 24 hours after his death.

    The ceremony was devoid of fanfare with only family members and few clergymen who witnessed his burial

    Ugochimereze Chinedu Asuzu, who broke the news said it was in line with keeping the wishes of the musical icon that his remains be laid to rest quietly devoid of the usual fanfare.

    In a statement released by his family, the revered music icon and folklorist had expressed a desire to be buried immediately after his passing, devoid of elaborate ceremonies or public attention and in line with this wish, his family honoured this request by interring him just a few hours after his transition.

    He dies at the age of 95.

  • Tinubu To Confer National Honours On Selected Legislators On June 12

    Lucky Obukohwo, Reporting

    As Nigerians look forward to celebrating June 12 otherwise known as Democracy Day, President Bola Tinubu has concluded plans to confer national honours on selected legislators in commemoration of the day.

    A statement by the House Spokesman, Akin Rotimi Jr., said the leadership and members of the House of Representatives will participate in a Special Joint Sitting of the National Assembly on Thursday, June 12.

    The President who is expected to be the special guest of honour will address the joint sitting of the legislators.

    “The programme will also feature goodwill messages from former presiding officers of the National Assembly and the conferment of National Honours on selected legislators by Mr President,” Rotimi Jr. said.

    The House Spokesman said that the theme for this year’s celebration is: “26 Years of Democracy: Renewing Our Commitment to National Development.”

    He explained that the Joint Sitting represents a significant moment in Nigeria’s democratic journey.

    He said it underscores the pivotal role of the National Assembly in safeguarding democratic values, fostering accountability, and advancing national development over the past 26 years of uninterrupted civil rule.

    He appealed to Nigerians to embrace the spirit of Democracy Day as a time for reflection, renewed patriotism and commitment to building a more inclusive, prosperous, and united nation.

  • Rivers Women Urge Tinubu to Reinstate Fubara

    A coalition of women under the banner “Rivers Women Unite for Sim” (RWUS) has called for the immediate reinstatement of Siminalayi Fubara as Governor of Rivers State.

    The women held a prayer gathering in Port Harcourt, the state capital, urging for peace, healing, and unity amid ongoing political tensions following the suspension of Governor Fubara.

    On March 18, President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers and suspended Fubara from office. Ibok-Ete Ibas was appointed to lead the state as sole administrator. Since then, closed-door meetings have taken place between President Tinubu and the suspended governor, though no resolution has been publicly announced.

    During the gathering, the women expressed support for Fubara and prayed for what they described as the “speedy restoration of democratic governance” in the state.

    “We actually want God to do it in no time,” said Ibiwari Iyama, one of the group’s members. “Even in the short time Sir Siminalayi Fubara served as governor, there was real transformation in the state. He touched lives.”

    The women further urged residents of Rivers State to stay hopeful and united despite current challenges, calling for genuine reconciliation and an end to political division.

  • Obi: Fuel Subsidy Needed to Go, But Tinubu’s Execution Flawed

    Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi says he would have removed Nigeria’s petrol subsidy and floated the naira if elected president but in a more “organised” and “gradual” manner than the current administration.

    Speaking during an interview with Arise Television on Monday, the former governor of Anambra State acknowledged the need to end the fuel subsidy, which he described as “riddled with criminality and corruption,” but criticised President Bola Tinubu’s implementation as abrupt and poorly managed.

    “There is nothing wrong with the removal of fuel subsidy,” Obi said. “What is wrong is the haphazard way in which it was announced and implemented.”

    He said the removal should have been carefully planned, with clear steps to protect the most vulnerable citizens, and questioned what the government has done with the billions saved since the policy took effect.

    “Everybody knows critical areas of development — education, health, and pulling people out of poverty. Have any of these improved? No,” he added.

    Obi also commented on the administration’s decision to float the naira, a move that has led to significant depreciation. He said such a policy is only effective when backed by strong economic productivity.

    “There is nothing wrong in floating and devaluing your currency. You do this when you have productivity,” he said. “In all of this, I would have done the same thing in an organised manner.”

    Since Tinubu ended the fuel subsidy in May 2023, petrol prices have jumped from N190 to over N850 per litre, and the naira has been left to market forces, causing its value to drop sharply.

    Obi’s remarks add to growing public debate over the economic direction Nigeria has taken under Tinubu’s leadership.

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