Nafisat Muhideen, the mother of the baby, mauled to death by two dogs at Zone E, Unity Estate, Halleluyah Area of Ido-Osun, Osun State, has said the animals attacked her on her way to buy drugs for the deceased who was from suffering catarrh.

The baby, named Mariam, was mauled to death by two dogs, said to have been let loose in a house facing the road that Nafisat had passed Wednesday afternoon.

A resident of the area, who preferred anonymity, during an interview, said before they attacked the nursing mother, the dogs, had been observed by some people who had earlier passed through the area standing near the gate, barking.

Narrating further how the incident happened, Nafisat, who said Mariam clocked five months on the day of the incident, said she was on her way to a medicine shop to buy drugs for her daughter who was struggling with catarrh.

She also said the dogs jumped on her from behind and forced out the baby, whom she strapped to her back before they mauled her till she died.

Nafisat said, “My baby had catarrh earlier and I contracted it from her. I went out carrying her on my back to get drugs for her and myself too, because I was having a headache.

“As I was walking towards where I would get the drugs, I heard a sound from behind and by the time I turned around to check, the dogs jumped on me from behind.

“They dragged the baby off my back and were mauling her. I ran around calling for help but no one was around to help rescue her. I threw stones at the dogs but they refused to leave the baby. They kept attacking her

“Later, some residents of the area showed up and attempted to get the baby from the dogs but they could not. The dogs did not leave her until they were killed. The remains of the baby facing the ground were retrieved from under the dogs.”

Meanwhile, Osun State Police Command has said the owner of the dogs involved in the incident has been arrested.

The command’s spokesperson, Yemisi Opalola, during an interview with our correspondent on Thursday, said the probe of the incident was still ongoing, assuring that justice would be served on the matter.

“We have arrested the owner of the dog. Investigation is still ongoing. We assure that justice will be served,” Opalola said.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/08/they-attacked-from-behind-says-mother-of-baby-killed-by-dogs/

The National Ginger Association of Nigeria, on Thursday, lamented that the 2023 ginger season in southern Kaduna suffered a setback following an attack by a ‘strange disease’ which led to the loss of over N10 billion to the state’s economy.

The National President of the Association, Squadron Leader Nuhu Dauda (retd.), who disclosed this in Kachia, Kaduna State, urged both the federal and state governments to put in necessary measures to curb the menace of the disease from causing more damage to ginger farming in the state.

This was as the association, in collaboration with a group, the Non-Farmers Initiative, empowered eighteen ginger farmers with N50,000 each in the Kachia Local Government Area of the state.

Daudu, in an interview with journalists, further urged the governments to provide palliatives so as to reduce the pandemic currently ravaging ginger farms in the southern part of the state.

The NGAN boss, also disclosed that due to the lack of a Ginger Processing Plant, Nigeria’s ginger was unable to attract competitive prices in the world market.

“It is therefore logical to set up a Ginger Processing Plant in order to meet the international quality standard. The quality of our processed ginger and its packaging have made our dear nation to be performing far below expectation in ginger export around the world,” he said.

Also speaking, the Chairman of Kachia LGA, Hon. Aaron Bako, said ginger remained the major source of livelihood for the people of Kachia.

“These impoverished ginger farmers have equally contributed to the GDP of Nigeria. So, it is on this note that we are calling on the governments to come to the aid of our people who have been badly affected by this strange disease,” he stated.

Meanwhile, on his part, the representative of the Non-Farmers Initiative, Captain Maikano Sara (retd), disclosed that the N50,000 donated to ginger farmers was targeted at empowering them to cushion the effect of the pandemic ravaging ginger farms in the area.

A beneficiary, Rita Asabe, while speaking on behalf of other beneficiaries, expressed happiness over the gesture, saying, “We are appreciative of the gesture. We are also calling on the government to please come to our aid.”
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/08/ginger-farmers-lose-n10bn-to-strange-disease/

The Bauchi State Police Command has vowed to unravel the circumstances leading to the murder of an 18-month-old boy, Muhammad Musa Abideen.

The Command said it has constituted an investigative committee headed by the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the State Criminal Investigation Department, SCID, DCP Yakubu Mohammed to thoroughly investigate the murder of the little child.

DAILY POST had reported that the State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed ordered the immediate closure of the school on Wednesday where Musa’s corpse was found with some of his vital organs removed by suspected ritualists.

An investigation carried out by the police revealed that the toddler was with his mother, Saudatu Abideen ‘f’ (aged 21 years) of Bakin Kura Street in Bauchi metropolis when he went missing on August 19, 2023.

A statement by the Spokesman of the Command, Superintendent of Police, SP Ahmed Wakil issued on Thursday, disclosed that the remains of the deceased were dumped at a soak-away situated in the Games Village area of the Bauchi metropolis by the suspected ritualists.

Wakil added that the corpse of the little child had been buried by his parents.

The statement quoted the Commissioner of Police, Bauchi State Command, CP Auwal Musa Muhammad to have “condemned the ruthless and terrible act exhibited by the anonymous men of the underworld, promising to trace and clampdown on the perpetrators to allow the law to take its course.”

The CP said the command was already tracking those suspected to be responsible for the gruesome murder of the little child, while promising to leave no stone unturned until the victim gets justice.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/08/bauchi-police-go-after-killers-of-teenage-boy/

BBNaija All Stars housemate, Mercy Eke has requested for a voluntary exit from the ongoing show following her altercation with Alex.

DAILY POST recalls that Mercy had on Tuesday after the Guinness game engaged in a verbal argument with Alex resorting to name-calling directed at Mercy.

Revisiting the incident during her diary session with Biggie on Wednesday, Mercy explained how the words Alex had usedaffected her, especially when Alex told her to “Go and die”.

Expressing her desire to voluntarily exit the house, she said: “When Alex said ‘go and die,’ I felt like it wasn’t a big deal, even though she claimed not to remember saying it.

“However, as I thought about it more, I realized I would never tell anyone to ‘go and die.

“I felt incredibly sorrowful after the argument. Engaging in a quarrel with Alex, of all people, was unexpected. Now, I’m at a loss. And I feel like I’m ready to go home.”
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/08/mercy-eke-seeks-voluntary-exit-from-bbnaija-all-stars/

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Nyesom Wike, has dared the leadership of his party, the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, to suspend or discipline him.

Wike stated this on Wednesday during his interview with Channels Television’s Politics Today programme.

DAILY POST recalls that the immediate past governor of Rivers State and a member of the major opposition party, PDP, was sworn in as minister of FCT some days ago under the administration of President Bola Tinubu of the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC.

Addressing the backslash he received following his appointment, Wike said he informed PDP leadership before he took the ministerial offer of President Tinubu.

Wike, however, said he has not seen any PDP chieftain that will suspend him from the party.

When asked “Are you afraid that your party might move against you or expel you?”

Wike replied: “Who is the party?Who are the PDP people? How can anybody talk about expelling me? A State that brought a governor, a State that brought three senators, a state that produced 32 members out of 32 House of Assembly and produced 11 out of 13 House of Reps.

“The person that would suspend me is the one that couldn’t produce a governor, is the one that couldn’t produce senators and Assembly?

“Look, I have not seen that person with all due respect. I should be the one calling for their discipline for violating the party’s constitution.”
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/08/i-dare-anyone-to-suspend-me-from-pdp-says-wike/

Good morning! Here is today’s summary from Nigerian Newspapers:

1. A group of senior Gabonese military officers have announced the seizure of power. The officers claimed to represent all of Gabon’s security and defence forces, asserting their authority over the nation.

2. President Bola Tinubu has reacted to the latest coup in Gabon, where President Ali Bongo has been ousted and placed under house arrest. Tinubu, in a statement by his Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, said the presidency was watching closely with deep concern for the country’s social-political stability and at the seeming autocratic contention apparently spreading across different regions of the continent.

3. The Nigerian Army has said troops of 343 Artillery Regiment conducting anti-oil theft operations on Monday, August 28, 2023, cracked down on an oil thieves’ camp in Obokofia community, Imo State. A statement by Brigadier General Onyema Nwachukwu, Director, Army Public Relations, disclosed that the vigilant troops intercepted 15 sacks and 13 Jerry cans of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) concealed in the camp.

4. Former senator and social critic, Senator Shehu Sani has stated that poisoned elections are responsible for the collapse of democracy in Africa. Sani’s statement is coming on the heels of a coup in the Central African country, Gabon.

5. A video of ousted Gabon President, Ali Bongo calling for his “friends” to speak up following a successful military coup in the oil-rich central African country has been published. Bongo in the video asked his friends to “make noise” about the people who arrested him and his family.

6. Pa Taiwo Akinkunmi, the designer of the Nigerian Flag is dead. His son, Akinkunmi Akinwumi Samuel confirmed his demise on his Facebook page.

7. The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Nyesom Wike, has dared the leadership of his party, the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, to suspend or discipline him. Wike stated this on Wednesday during his interview with Channels Television’s Politics Today programme.

8. Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has announced that the long-awaited Blue Line Rail will start commercial operations next month, September 4. The announcement was contained in a post on his social media platform X, on Wednesday.

9. An ad hoc committee investigating the non-remittance of money into the National Housing Funds has summoned 54 insurance companies in Nigeria to appear before it over the non-remittance of N267 billion into the fund. The Chairman of the Committee, Dachung Bagos, during an interaction with the representatives of AIICO Insurance, said the insurance companies failed to remit money into the NHF as mandated by law.

10. The National Working Committee (NWC) of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) has refuted the purported suspension of Rabiu Kwankwaso, the 2023 presidential candidate of the party. The party’s national auditor, Ladipo Johnson, stated this at a news conference on Wednesday at the NNPP national headquarters in Abuja.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/08/10-things-you-need-to-know-this-thursday-morning/

The Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr Betta Edu, disclosed on Wednesday that 23,000 people have been reported missing in less than a decade due to the insurgency in some parts of the country.

Edu stated this in Abuja at a stakeholders’ engagement with the theme “Where are you now”, to mark the International Day of the Disappeared.

She said that the figure represented half the number of missing people in the whole of Africa.

Edu said that the report of the missing people released by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and the Nigerian Red Cross Society (NRCS) was as a result of the insurgency in some parts of the country.

“Today, over 23,000 persons are still missing.

“However, it is likely that this is just a tip of the iceberg as a more efficient mechanism is needed to improve the reporting and forensically trace cases of missing persons,” she said.

The minister said the issue of missing people had become one of the most critical and long-lasting humanitarian consequences of armed conflicts, and as such called for sober reflections.

Edu said that the present administration was committed to curbing the issue, hence the need to facilitate and strengthen the legal frameworks that would substantially address the incidences of disappearance.

On his part, Mr Yann Bonzon, Head of Delegation, ICRC, said that more than 23,000 people, registered by the Family Links Network in Nigeria, never returned home, and remained missing until date.

“The actual number of missing persons is likely to be much higher, with Nigeria having more missing people than any other country on the continent,” Bonzon added.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/08/23000-people-missing-in-nigeria-fg/

Famous Nigerian singer, David Adeleke, aka Davido, on Tuesday night made history as the first African artiste to perform at the Professional Footballers’ Association Awards in England.

The ‘Unavailable’ crooner’s performance came as an interlude before the biggest awards of the night were announced at the Lowry Theatre in Manchester.

He took to his Twitter handle on Wednesday to relish his historic performance.

He wrote, “Thank you @PFA for the opportunity to not only attend such a prestigious event but also perform. Music and sports have always gone great together and we proved that again last night! Next stop Dubai @cocacolaarena.”

DAILY POST recalls that Davido performed at the FIFA World Cup closing ceremony in Qatar last year.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/08/davido-makes-history-as-first-african-artiste-to-perform-at-pfa-awards/

One time secular artiste turned gospel singer, Chidinma Ekile, has shared the encounter that led her to abandoning worldly music and shows.

In a recent interview, Ms Ekile said, “I had always known that someday I would do gospel music, because it is something I have had interest in for a long time. I became a chorister at a young age, so I have been involved with gospel music for a long time. I did not know when exactly it would happen, but I knew would definitely happen.

The experience has been absolutely beautiful. Initially, I was skeptical about the experience I would have, but being here right now, I don’t think I would want to have it another way. I have always known that I am a covenant child. My gift is primarily for God’s glory, and I have always wanted to work for Him. I was just waiting for the right time, and I think that time is now.

I had my convictions. I actually had a personal encounter with Jesus. I had always known about Jesus, but I experienced him myself, so it became a matter of a personal experience and conviction.”

Asked the reaction of her family and other loved ones when she decided to switch to gospel music, she said’ “My family has always wanted me to do this. They are very excited, and I have enjoyed the full support of everyone.”

Some people are of the opinion that one can’t have as huge a fan base as a gospel singer unlike as a secular artiste.

For Chidinma Ekile what matters for her most is preaching the gospel.

Hear her: “Having a huge fan base is not as important has having peace of mind. The kind of peace I have had since I made the switch cannot be bought with money. My fulfillment and peace of mind are more important to me. Besides, everyone needs God. The world needs Jesus, and I am more concerned about the souls of men who need to hear about the love of my Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. That is my priority now.”
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/08/i-had-personal-encounter-with-jesus-christ-chidinma-ekile-opens-up/

One time secular artiste turned gospel singer, Chidinma Ekile, has shared the encounter that led her to abandoning worldly music and shows.

In a recent interview, Ms Ekile said, “I had always known that someday I would do gospel music, because it is something I have had interest in for a long time. I became a chorister at a young age, so I have been involved with gospel music for a long time. I did not know when exactly it would happen, but I knew would definitely happen.

The experience has been absolutely beautiful. Initially, I was skeptical about the experience I would have, but being here right now, I don’t think I would want to have it another way. I have always known that I am a covenant child. My gift is primarily for God’s glory, and I have always wanted to work for Him. I was just waiting for the right time, and I think that time is now.

I had my convictions. I actually had a personal encounter with Jesus. I had always known about Jesus, but I experienced him myself, so it became a matter of a personal experience and conviction.”

Asked the reaction of her family and other loved ones when she decided to switch to gospel music, she said’ “My family has always wanted me to do this. They are very excited, and I have enjoyed the full support of everyone.”

Some people are of the opinion that one can’t have as huge a fan base as a gospel singer unlike as a secular artiste.

For Chidinma Ekile what matters for her most is preaching the gospel.

Hear her: “Having a huge fan base is not as important has having peace of mind. The kind of peace I have had since I made the switch cannot be bought with money. My fulfillment and peace of mind are more important to me. Besides, everyone needs God. The world needs Jesus, and I am more concerned about the souls of men who need to hear about the love of my Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. That is my priority now.”
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/08/i-had-personal-encounter-with-jesus-christ-chidinma-ekile-opens-up/

Further details have emerged about how police officers from Ekpan Division in Uvwie Local Government Area of Delta State arrested 67 suspects for allegedly conducting a same-sex wedding ceremony.

The suspects were arrested at Teebolus Hotel, Refinery Road, Ekpan, on August 27, 2023, at 9 pm.

Delta State Police Command’s spokesman, DSP Bright Edafe, said in a statement that the incident started to unravel when policemen intercepted a male cross-dresser who claimed to be an actor.

“Upon interrogation, he confessed that he was a member of a certain gay club and that he was on his way to join his fellow members for a gay marriage ceremony.

According to him: “Acting on intelligence gathered, the Divisional Police Officer, CSP Aliyu Shaba, raided Teebolus Hotel off Refinery Road, Ekpan, Warri, where some suspected gay members were reportedly holding a gay marriage ceremony.

“As the operatives arrived at the said hotel, the gay members immediately took flight, scampering in different directions.

“The police officers chased and arrested a total of 67 suspects for allegedly conducting and attending a same-sex wedding ceremony between Daniel Pius (the groom), 22, and Maxwel Ohwonohwo (the bride), 20.

“The venue of the illicit event was searched, and the following items were recovered at the scene: one codeine bottle, three cups of refined Canadian Loud, five sachets of SK, one sachet of tramadol, four tablets of Molly drug, one crusher, and gay marriage ceremonial dresses.”

Edafe said further: “During the investigation, one of the suspects, Abel Daniel, 23, stated that while he was under the influence of alcohol, one male suspect who is at large had sex with him through his anus at the hotel.

“The suspects and exhibits are in custody, and efforts are intensifying to ensure the arrest of the fleeing members for possible prosecution.”
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/08/police-arrest-67-gay-suspects-in-delta-hotel/

Two young men from Lagos who were in Ogun State for a programme at a Cherubim and Seraphim Church in Onikoko have been reported to have drowned while swimming in a river at Itori. The tragedy reportedly happened on Monday. Ogun State Police Command Public Relations Officer in Ogun, Omolola Odutola, disclosed that a member of the church, Adebayo Adeosun, had reported at the station at about 6:30 pm, “that some boys numbering seven who came from Lagos on the 27th of August for his church inauguration, left the church premises to swim, and got drowned in the process.” According to Odutola, the two victims were Femi Akinola, 32, of Odo Eran, Itire, and Tunde Falade, 35, of Kola Alagbado, both in Lagos. Their bodies were recovered from the tides and rushed to the health centre in Itori, Ewekoro Local Government Area of Ogun State, “where they were unfortunately confirmed dead by a medical doctor on duty.” The Divisional Police Officer, CSP Olayemi Jacob, had detailed his team to visit the scene upon receipt of the report and ascertained that there were no signs of violence or foul play suspected. “Their remains have since been evacuated to Ifo General Hospital for autopsy reports and later deposited in the same mortuary,” she explained.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/08/two-men-drowned-while-swimming-in-ogun-river/

The officials of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) on Tuesday demolished an illegal market called “Kasuwan Dare,” suspected of serving as a 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 of the Department of Development Control, Mr Mukhtar Galadima, said that the illegal market was becoming a threat to the residents of the area and passersby.

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 FCTA would not allow it to continue.

“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 they 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 where we are beginning the exercise,” he said.

The Secretary of the 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 20 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,” Yakubu said.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/08/fcta-demolishes-illegal-market-in-abuja/

Nigerian singer, Iyanya Onoyom Mbuk, popularly known as Iyanya, has urged his fans to pray for him to get married soon.

The 36-year-old said he is eager to get married.

He disclosed this while appearing as a guest in the latest episode of the Tea With Tay podcast hosted by actor, Temisan Emmanuel Ahwieh, aka Taymesan.

The ‘Kukere’ crooner appealed to fans to pray for his current relationship so that “God will help me to settle down.”

Iyanya: “Pray for my relationship that God will help me to settle down, even if it’s this year. That’s what you people need to be praying for. Like you now, Taymesan, you are spirit filled. That’s something you need to fast and pray about.”

Taymesan: “But my spirit is telling me that you don’t need to rush it that God is working on you.

“Maybe by 2025, 2026, we will be hearing wedding bells. They no dey rush marriage.”

Iyanya: “ Baba, no na. No do like that.”

Taymesan: “Okay, Holy Spirit, let’s bring it back to 2024. Work on him Lord.”
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/08/pray-for-me-to-settle-down-iyanya-tells-fans/

The Peoples Democratic Party, PDP in Zamfara State, has condemned the alleged plan of the All Progressives Congress, APC in the state to influence the yet to be announced judgement of the election petition tribunal in its favour.

Addressing newsmen in Gusau, the Acting State Chairman of the PDP, Mukhtar Muhammad Lugga alleged that the All Progressives Congress, APC was planning to make the state ungovernable for the ruling party.

“The State APC has been blackmailing all the activities of the ruling party in the state. The APC does not want peace to reign in the state”, he alleged.

The PDP Chairman alleged that, “in a widely circulated audio recording, a staunch APC supporter, Malam Anas Anka, the managing director of Thunder Blowers, an online TV station, openly boasted how he was contacted by the former Governor Abdulaziz Yari.

Lugga claimed that the former governor was reported to have planned to bribe and influence members of the state House of Assembly to commence the impeachment proceedings against Governor Dauda Lawal.

“In the same vein, the audio clip revealed that Anas Anka was making damning allegations on the judiciary, particularly the judges of the state election tribunal who he said were induced to issue advance judgement in favour of APC”.

The Chairman lamented that his party was bringing the recent development to the notice of the authorities to forestall the possibility of a breakdown of law and order as well as to protect the integrity of the judiciary which by the leaked audio has subjected them to question.

“We have directed our lawyers to immediately file an appeal with the hope that the judiciary will seize the opportunity to correct any potential reason for miscarriage of justice that may have gone unnoticed.”

Lugga, who also doubles as the Chief of staff to Governor Lawal said his party has called on the National Judicial Council, NJC to order a full investigation on the allegations of foul play on the part of the judges of the Tribunal as levelled against them by Anas Anka.

The State PDP Acting Chairman also appealed to the DSS to invite the Managing Editor of the Thunder Blowers online for questioning and retrieval of the yet to be announced judgements he claims to have in his possession on the outstanding cases of governorship and State House of Assembly petitions currently at the Tribunal.

The party also called on former Governor Abdulaziz Yari to, as a matter of urgency, clear his name from the allegations of bribery, financial inducement and corruption levelled against him by Anas Anka.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/08/pdp-demands-thorough-investigation-of-alleged-bribery-of-tribunal-judges-in-zamfara/

Nigerian singer, Divine Ikubor, popularly known as Rema, has achieved another milestone as his song ‘Calm Down’ with Selena Gomez became the first song in history to spend one year on top of the Billboard US Afrobeats Songs chart.

American data collection company, Chart Data disclosed this on Monday.

The song has spent 52 weeks as number one on the Billboard US Afrobeats Songs chart.

It peaked number three on the main chart, Billboard Hot 100, and reached number one on the Canadian Top Songs chart.

DAILY POST recalls that Rema’s ‘Calm Down’ entered into the Guinness World Record as the First No.1 Hit on The Official MENA Chart (the world’s first regional streaming chart).

‘Calm Down’ debuted at No. 1 when the MENA Chart was launched by the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI) on November 29, 2022.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/08/remas-calm-down-becomes-first-song-to-spend-one-year-on-us-billboard-chart/

Ekiti State Commissioner for Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Prof Mobolaji Aluko has assured Ekiti people of access to improved and sustainable water supply, sanitation and hygiene.

Prof. Aluko gave the assurance in Ado-Ekiti while receiving a Federal Program Implementation Unit team on a technical support mission to the state.

He said the state government was already tackling the issue of erratic supply of electricity to the state, which he described as a major factor in ensuring satisfactory provision of water.

He noted that electricity is a key determinant of the success or failure of efforts to provide potable water to the people.

In his remarks, the National Program Coordinator, Abdulhameed Gwaram explained that the purpose of their visit was to address the critical risks and issues that may hinder efficiency and performance.

He advised implementing agencies to seek assistance from the Federal Program Implementation Unit (FPIU) and State Program Implementation Unit (SPIU), whenever the need arises.

He emphasized the importance attached to the end result, number of beneficiaries and the procedures that the Independent Verification Agency would follow for clearing and disbursement, stressing the need for Implementing Agencies to do proper documentation of every activity carried out under the program.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/08/ekiti-govt-assures-residents-improved-sustainable-water-supply-sanitation-hygiene/

THE ruling All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, in Anambra State and the opposition All Progressives Congress, APC, are blaming each other over non conduct of local government election in the state. While APGA said APC was the cause of non conduct of the election following a court case it instituted against the Anambra State Independent Electoral Commission, ANSIEC, APC regretted that Anambra is the only state in the South East that has neither formed democratically elected local governments, nor set a date for the exercise. Since the return of the current democracy in the country in 1999, Anambra had conducted LG election only once and that was towards the end of Mr Peter Obi’s tenure as governor of the state in January 2014. A chieftain of the APC, Okelo Madukaife, expressed surprise at the reason being given by APGA, insisting that there was no court restraining conduct of local government polls in the state. Referring to a statement credited to the state chairman of APGA, Barr. Ifeatu Obi-Okoye that it was the APC court action that is delaying the local government election, Madukaife said: “Obiokoye did not mention the parties, the subject matter of the suit(s), or the specific orders, if any, tying the hands of the Anambra State government on local government election. “Gov. Peter Obi of APGA used that excuse until it suffered self-expiration. Gov. Wille Obiano applied that excuse to corner the resources of LGs. Now Gov. Soludo,who was emphatic about holding LG election in September 2022, as part of election promise, has failed and is finding a leeway in the latest APGA umbrage. “APGA is only trying to defend an unjustifiable plunder that is putting Zik’s home state down in the comity of Nigerian states, to the extent that in time, the state may become the last in Nigeria. “Come September 02, 2023, Edo State will repent from the sin that Anambra is older at by electing LG officials. “Yet Anambra State is wasting money paying a set of near unproductive staff of ANSIEC for doing next to nothing, having no board and draining the resources of the state under the colourless leadership of Chukwuma Soludo’s APGA.” Reacting to Madukaife’s comment, the coordinator of APGA Media Warriors Forum, Mr. Chinedu Obigwe said it is a well known fact that the suit instituted by APC that was dragged to the Supreme Court, is the clog on the wheels of Anambra State government’s desire to conduct local government election. According to Obigwe, if APC is sincere about its clamour for the conduct of local government election in the state, it should first withdraw the cases it instituted in that respect in the court so that the state government would no longer have any legal impediment in that direction. He said: “Anambra APC cannot use litigation to stop Anambra State government from conducting local government election and turn around to act as if it wants the election to be conducted. “As long as the case is not yet decided by Supreme Court, any conduct of local government election in Anambra is an exercise in futility because it will be declared null and void at the end of the day. “Governor Chukwuma Soludo is a believer of the rule of law and for that reason he will not indulge in a sub -judice action. “In Anambra of today, Governor Soludo has drastically reduced the cost of governance and managing the lean resources at his disposal judiciously. “The resources accruing to Anambra State coffers are being channelled to projects being executed across the state by the Soludo administration.''

APC, APGA trade words over LG poll in Anambra

THE ruling All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, in Anambra State and the opposition All Progressives Congress, APC, are blaming each other over non conduct of local government election in the state.

While APGA said APC was the cause of non conduct of the election following a court case it instituted against the Anambra State Independent Electoral Commission, ANSIEC, APC regretted that Anambra is the only state in the South East that has neither formed democratically elected local governments, nor set a date for the exercise.

Since the return of the current democracy in the country in 1999, Anambra had conducted LG election only once and that was towards the end of Mr Peter Obi’s tenure as governor of the state in January 2014.

A chieftain of the APC, Okelo Madukaife, expressed surprise at the reason being given by APGA, insisting that there was no court restraining conduct of local government polls in the state.

Referring to a statement credited to the state chairman of APGA, Barr. Ifeatu Obi-Okoye that it was the APC court action that is delaying the local government election, Madukaife said: “Obiokoye did not mention the parties, the subject matter of the suit(s), or the specific orders, if any, tying the hands of the Anambra State government on local government election.

“Gov. Peter Obi of APGA used that excuse until it suffered self-expiration. Gov. Wille Obiano applied that excuse to corner the resources of LGs. Now Gov. Soludo,who was emphatic about holding LG election in September 2022, as part of election promise, has failed and is finding a leeway in the latest APGA umbrage.

“APGA is only trying to defend an unjustifiable plunder that is putting Zik’s home state down in the comity of Nigerian states, to the extent that in time, the state may become the last in Nigeria.

“Come September 02, 2023, Edo State will repent from the sin that Anambra is older at by electing LG officials.

“Yet Anambra State is wasting money paying a set of near unproductive staff of ANSIEC for doing next to nothing, having no board and draining the resources of the state under the colourless leadership of Chukwuma Soludo’s APGA.”

Reacting to Madukaife’s comment, the coordinator of APGA Media Warriors Forum, Mr. Chinedu Obigwe said it is a well known fact that the suit instituted by APC that was dragged to the Supreme Court, is the clog on the wheels of Anambra State government’s desire to conduct local government election.

According to Obigwe, if APC is sincere about its clamour for the conduct of local government election in the state, it should first withdraw the cases it instituted in that respect in the court so that the state government would no longer have any legal impediment in that direction.

He said: “Anambra APC cannot use litigation to stop Anambra State government from conducting local government election and turn around to act as if it wants the election to be conducted.

“As long as the case is not yet decided by Supreme Court, any conduct of local government election in Anambra is an exercise in futility because it will be declared null and void at the end of the day.

“Governor Chukwuma Soludo is a believer of the rule of law and for that reason he will not indulge in a sub -judice action.

“In Anambra of today, Governor Soludo has drastically reduced the cost of governance and managing the lean resources at his disposal judiciously.

“The resources accruing to Anambra State coffers are being channelled to projects being executed across the state by the Soludo administration.''APC, APGA trade words over LG poll in Anambra THE ruling All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, in Anambra State and the opposition All Progressives Congress, APC, are blaming each other over non conduct of local government election in the state. While APGA said APC was the cause of non conduct of the election following a court case it instituted against the Anambra State Independent Electoral Commission, ANSIEC, APC regretted that Anambra is the only state in the South East that has neither formed democratically elected local governments, nor set a date for the exercise. Since the return of the current democracy in the country in 1999, Anambra had conducted LG election only once and that was towards the end of Mr Peter Obi’s tenure as governor of the state in January 2014. A chieftain of the APC, Okelo Madukaife, expressed surprise at the reason being given by APGA, insisting that there was no court restraining conduct of local government polls in the state. Referring to a statement credited to the state chairman of APGA, Barr. Ifeatu Obi-Okoye that it was the APC court action that is delaying the local government election, Madukaife said: “Obiokoye did not mention the parties, the subject matter of the suit(s), or the specific orders, if any, tying the hands of the Anambra State government on local government election. “Gov. Peter Obi of APGA used that excuse until it suffered self-expiration. Gov. Wille Obiano applied that excuse to corner the resources of LGs. Now Gov. Soludo,who was emphatic about holding LG election in September 2022, as part of election promise, has failed and is finding a leeway in the latest APGA umbrage. “APGA is only trying to defend an unjustifiable plunder that is putting Zik’s home state down in the comity of Nigerian states, to the extent that in time, the state may become the last in Nigeria. “Come September 02, 2023, Edo State will repent from the sin that Anambra is older at by electing LG officials. “Yet Anambra State is wasting money paying a set of near unproductive staff of ANSIEC for doing next to nothing, having no board and draining the resources of the state under the colourless leadership of Chukwuma Soludo’s APGA.” Reacting to Madukaife’s comment, the coordinator of APGA Media Warriors Forum, Mr. Chinedu Obigwe said it is a well known fact that the suit instituted by APC that was dragged to the Supreme Court, is the clog on the wheels of Anambra State government’s desire to conduct local government election. According to Obigwe, if APC is sincere about its clamour for the conduct of local government election in the state, it should first withdraw the cases it instituted in that respect in the court so that the state government would no longer have any legal impediment in that direction. He said: “Anambra APC cannot use litigation to stop Anambra State government from conducting local government election and turn around to act as if it wants the election to be conducted. “As long as the case is not yet decided by Supreme Court, any conduct of local government election in Anambra is an exercise in futility because it will be declared null and void at the end of the day. “Governor Chukwuma Soludo is a believer of the rule of law and for that reason he will not indulge in a sub -judice action. “In Anambra of today, Governor Soludo has drastically reduced the cost of governance and managing the lean resources at his disposal judiciously. “The resources accruing to Anambra State coffers are being channelled to projects being executed across the state by the Soludo administration.''

APC, APGA trade words over LG poll in Anambra

THE ruling All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, in Anambra State and the opposition All Progressives Congress, APC, are blaming each other over non conduct of local government election in the state.

While APGA said APC was the cause of non conduct of the election following a court case it instituted against the Anambra State Independent Electoral Commission, ANSIEC, APC regretted that Anambra is the only state in the South East that has neither formed democratically elected local governments, nor set a date for the exercise.

Since the return of the current democracy in the country in 1999, Anambra had conducted LG election only once and that was towards the end of Mr Peter Obi’s tenure as governor of the state in January 2014.

A chieftain of the APC, Okelo Madukaife, expressed surprise at the reason being given by APGA, insisting that there was no court restraining conduct of local government polls in the state.

Referring to a statement credited to the state chairman of APGA, Barr. Ifeatu Obi-Okoye that it was the APC court action that is delaying the local government election, Madukaife said: “Obiokoye did not mention the parties, the subject matter of the suit(s), or the specific orders, if any, tying the hands of the Anambra State government on local government election.

“Gov. Peter Obi of APGA used that excuse until it suffered self-expiration. Gov. Wille Obiano applied that excuse to corner the resources of LGs. Now Gov. Soludo,who was emphatic about holding LG election in September 2022, as part of election promise, has failed and is finding a leeway in the latest APGA umbrage.

“APGA is only trying to defend an unjustifiable plunder that is putting Zik’s home state down in the comity of Nigerian states, to the extent that in time, the state may become the last in Nigeria.

“Come September 02, 2023, Edo State will repent from the sin that Anambra is older at by electing LG officials.

“Yet Anambra State is wasting money paying a set of near unproductive staff of ANSIEC for doing next to nothing, having no board and draining the resources of the state under the colourless leadership of Chukwuma Soludo’s APGA.”

Reacting to Madukaife’s comment, the coordinator of APGA Media Warriors Forum, Mr. Chinedu Obigwe said it is a well known fact that the suit instituted by APC that was dragged to the Supreme Court, is the clog on the wheels of Anambra State government’s desire to conduct local government election.

According to Obigwe, if APC is sincere about its clamour for the conduct of local government election in the state, it should first withdraw the cases it instituted in that respect in the court so that the state government would no longer have any legal impediment in that direction.

He said: “Anambra APC cannot use litigation to stop Anambra State government from conducting local government election and turn around to act as if it wants the election to be conducted.

“As long as the case is not yet decided by Supreme Court, any conduct of local government election in Anambra is an exercise in futility because it will be declared null and void at the end of the day.

“Governor Chukwuma Soludo is a believer of the rule of law and for that reason he will not indulge in a sub -judice action.

“In Anambra of today, Governor Soludo has drastically reduced the cost of governance and managing the lean resources at his disposal judiciously.

“The resources accruing to Anambra State coffers are being channelled to projects being executed across the state by the Soludo administration.''APC, APGA trade words over LG poll in Anambra THE ruling All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, in Anambra State and the opposition All Progressives Congress, APC, are blaming each other over non conduct of local government election in the state. While APGA said APC was the cause of non conduct of the election following a court case it instituted against the Anambra State Independent Electoral Commission, ANSIEC, APC regretted that Anambra is the only state in the South East that has neither formed democratically elected local governments, nor set a date for the exercise. Since the return of the current democracy in the country in 1999, Anambra had conducted LG election only once and that was towards the end of Mr Peter Obi’s tenure as governor of the state in January 2014. A chieftain of the APC, Okelo Madukaife, expressed surprise at the reason being given by APGA, insisting that there was no court restraining conduct of local government polls in the state. Referring to a statement credited to the state chairman of APGA, Barr. Ifeatu Obi-Okoye that it was the APC court action that is delaying the local government election, Madukaife said: “Obiokoye did not mention the parties, the subject matter of the suit(s), or the specific orders, if any, tying the hands of the Anambra State government on local government election. “Gov. Peter Obi of APGA used that excuse until it suffered self-expiration. Gov. Wille Obiano applied that excuse to corner the resources of LGs. Now Gov. Soludo,who was emphatic about holding LG election in September 2022, as part of election promise, has failed and is finding a leeway in the latest APGA umbrage. “APGA is only trying to defend an unjustifiable plunder that is putting Zik’s home state down in the comity of Nigerian states, to the extent that in time, the state may become the last in Nigeria. “Come September 02, 2023, Edo State will repent from the sin that Anambra is older at by electing LG officials. “Yet Anambra State is wasting money paying a set of near unproductive staff of ANSIEC for doing next to nothing, having no board and draining the resources of the state under the colourless leadership of Chukwuma Soludo’s APGA.” Reacting to Madukaife’s comment, the coordinator of APGA Media Warriors Forum, Mr. Chinedu Obigwe said it is a well known fact that the suit instituted by APC that was dragged to the Supreme Court, is the clog on the wheels of Anambra State government’s desire to conduct local government election. According to Obigwe, if APC is sincere about its clamour for the conduct of local government election in the state, it should first withdraw the cases it instituted in that respect in the court so that the state government would no longer have any legal impediment in that direction. He said: “Anambra APC cannot use litigation to stop Anambra State government from conducting local government election and turn around to act as if it wants the election to be conducted. “As long as the case is not yet decided by Supreme Court, any conduct of local government election in Anambra is an exercise in futility because it will be declared null and void at the end of the day. “Governor Chukwuma Soludo is a believer of the rule of law and for that reason he will not indulge in a sub -judice action. “In Anambra of today, Governor Soludo has drastically reduced the cost of governance and managing the lean resources at his disposal judiciously. “The resources accruing to Anambra State coffers are being channelled to projects being executed across the state by the Soludo administration.''

APC, APGA trade words over LG poll in Anambra

THE ruling All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, in Anambra State and the opposition All Progressives Congress, APC, are blaming each other over non conduct of local government election in the state.

While APGA said APC was the cause of non conduct of the election following a court case it instituted against the Anambra State Independent Electoral Commission, ANSIEC, APC regretted that Anambra is the only state in the South East that has neither formed democratically elected local governments, nor set a date for the exercise.

Since the return of the current democracy in the country in 1999, Anambra had conducted LG election only once and that was towards the end of Mr Peter Obi’s tenure as governor of the state in January 2014.

A chieftain of the APC, Okelo Madukaife, expressed surprise at the reason being given by APGA, insisting that there was no court restraining conduct of local government polls in the state.

Referring to a statement credited to the state chairman of APGA, Barr. Ifeatu Obi-Okoye that it was the APC court action that is delaying the local government election, Madukaife said: “Obiokoye did not mention the parties, the subject matter of the suit(s), or the specific orders, if any, tying the hands of the Anambra State government on local government election.

“Gov. Peter Obi of APGA used that excuse until it suffered self-expiration. Gov. Wille Obiano applied that excuse to corner the resources of LGs. Now Gov. Soludo,who was emphatic about holding LG election in September 2022, as part of election promise, has failed and is finding a leeway in the latest APGA umbrage.

“APGA is only trying to defend an unjustifiable plunder that is putting Zik’s home state down in the comity of Nigerian states, to the extent that in time, the state may become the last in Nigeria.

“Come September 02, 2023, Edo State will repent from the sin that Anambra is older at by electing LG officials.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/08/apc-apga-trade-words-over-lg-poll-in-anambra/

Big Brother Naija All Stars housemate, Hazel Oyeze Onou, aka Whitemoney, has said he loves all the women in the reality show.

He stated this while professing love to Doyin on Monday.

Doyin expressed disbelief about Whitemoney’s proposal saying he also likes Mercy Eke and CeeC.

However, the singer insisted that he is “Otamiemie Master”, stressing that he loves all the women.

Whitemoney said: “I have always been telling you. I told you, collect love, collect love. I have been telling you to collect love.”

Doyin inferred: “You started telling me like two days ago; Saturday night party.”

Whitemoney rebuffed: “No, since I came to this house, I’ve been telling you, Doyin, take love.”

Doyin cut in: “But you like Lambo , you like CeeC.”

Whitemoney added: “Guess what? I like all the women. My name is Fela. I’m the Otamiemie Master.

“Listen, I’m an Igbo man, a chief. I’m not limited to one woman. I love all the women and I will show you love.”

Doyin declared: “God forbid in this house or outside this house, will I ever be with a man that is in love with all the women.”
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/08/bbnaija-all-stars-i-like-all-women-in-big-brothers-house-whitemoney/

The chairman of the Senate Committee on Information, Kenneth Eze, has insisted that nobody will overturn the election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Eze urged the leadership and members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ebonyi State and Nigerians at large to dispel fears that the victory of President Bola Tinubu could be overturned, as rumoured by the opposition.

He made this known while addressing Ebonyi Central APC executives and other leaders of the party, who paid him a courtesy visit to mark the Ezza Ezekuna Ukaku New Yam festival at his country home at Onueke, Ezza South LGA of Ebonyi State.

According to him: “There is a lot of distraction. The enemies are doing everything to distract us, but we won’t allow them to succeed. APC came on board at a time when things were very difficult.

“People think that the fuel subsidy removal will crash the economy, but to their shock, the economy of the country is boosted, and God willing, in two weeks’ time, the Port-Harcourt refinery will be on stream and the effect of the subsidy removal will be cushioned.”

He said further: “I can assure you our party, the APC, is doing well, and nobody will overturn the election of the present administration. Some people have been boasting that either Atiku or Obi will take over the government, but I urge you to be strong and don’t be afraid; God is with us.”
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/08/tinubus-electoral-victory-will-not-be-overturned-senator-eze/

The Gubernatorial Candidate of  the Peoples Democratic Party PDP in Imo State, Senator Samuel Anyanwụ has said that Governor Hope Uzodimma is only focused on Federal roads in the state. 

Senator Anyanwụ in an interaction with newsmen on Saturday said that Governor Uzodimma has focused on only roads he can get the money back, ignoring  state roads in hinterlands. 

He said that previously there were white men everywhere in the name of construction companies, but none of them are in existent in Imo again because the show off is over. 

He frowned at the lack of vision on the side serving government whom he said have embarked in a lot of wasteful projects. 

He cited that Governor Hope Uzodimma spent 2.6 billion naira to send non-Muslims youths to Saudi Arabia, when the same amount can build three water reservoirs in the zones of the state. 

He said that his regime will focus on infrastructural development that is targeted towards the well being of the people. 
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/08/pdp-guber-candidate-call-uzodinma-out-for-building-only-federal-road/

Grammy-winning Nigerian singer, Damini Ogulu, aka Burna Boy, has revealed the inspiration behind his forthcoming seventh studio album, ‘I Told Them.'”

He said he took a trip down memory lane on his Twitter page and he discovered that he had previously tweeted about all he is achieving now, hence, he decided to name the album, ‘I Told Them’.

Burna Boy disclosed this in a recent interview with American media outlet, Complex.

He said, “Them’ in my album title, is anyone that ever didn’t believe at any point in time.

“The way the name of this album came up is because one random day, I just went on my Twitter , and I started scrolling down to my old tweets. I wanted to see what the first tweet I ever tweeted was, for some strange reason.

“And then it just sent me down this rabbit hole, where I’m just looking at everything I ever said. I’m like, wow! It’s crazy. I really did say all these sh*ts that is happening now. And that kind of made me to name my album, ‘I Told Them’.

The album would be released on Friday, August 25, 2023.

The singer said the project will have a sequel that would be released later.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/08/burna-boy-reveals-what-inspired-his-i-told-them-album/

Some civil society groups in the Southeast have written to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), pointing out conditions for inclusive, free and credible governorship election in Imo State, scheduled for November 11, 2023.

In separate petitions to the national chairman of the commission, Mahmoud Yakubu, the International Society for Civil Liberties and Rule of Law (Intersociety) and the South-East Zone of the Civil Liberties Organisation (South-East CLO) specifically demanded the removal of the state Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Prof. Silvia Agu and 17 other top electoral officers and the demilitarisation of the polling units and result collation centres.

The groups disclosed that several investigations into state of affairs in Imo State indicated that the enthronement of popular and credible democratic government in the state remained key to ending myriad of problems bedevilling the state since January, 2020.

While Intersociety’s letter was dated Monday, August 21, 2023 and signed by the board chairman, Emeka Umeagbalasi, Chidinma Udegbunam Esquire (head of publicity) and Ositadinma Agu (head of contacts and mobilisation), that of the South-East CLO was dated Tuesday, August 22, 2023 and signed by the chairman of the South-East CLO, Comrade Aloysius Emeka Attah.

In the petitions, the groups urged the headquarters of the commission to comprehensively overhaul the Imo INEC and its principal departments, including EOs, Administration, Operations, ICT, Voter Education, among others and address the anomalies arising from the 2023 presidential/national/state assembly polls in the state.

“Several INEC officers were strongly accused of playing different indictable roles to undermine the credibility of the polls; to the extent that the state assembly poll in the state was the worst of it all and a ‘walkover’ for candidates of the state ruling APC by “winning” 26 of the State’s 27 House of Assembly seats.

“Vicariously or otherwise, the state’s Resident Electoral Commissioner, Prof Sylvia Agu, did not stand tall to be counted and respected owing to her poor handling of the earlier 2023 polls and therefore could not be trusted to organise and deliver a free, participatory and credible governorship poll in the state scheduled for November 11, 2023″, read one of the petitions.

It also added that having comprehensively checked and monitored the goings on in Imo State ahead of the November 11, 2023 governorship poll, it has found that REC Sylvia Agu and 17 other top electoral officers, including 11 EOs and six departmental heads drawn from the State INEC Secretariat are grossly incapable of ensuring free, participatory and credible Governorship Poll in the State.

The petition urged the INEC national headquarters to address all the wrongs arising from the 2023 general election and clean up and reposition the state’s INEC ahead of the Nov 11, 2023 governorship poll.

They further called on the INEC that several of the electoral officers in the 27 Local Government Areas in the state had long overstayed far above periods allowed by the INEC Establishment Act of 2004 or the Electoral Act of 2022 as amended which has also made them vulnerable to electoral corruption and related sharp practices.

They therefore maintained that they were certainly not sure that the Imo REC, Prof Sylvia Agu is capable of conducting free, participatory and credible Governorship Poll in the State on Nov 11, 2023; with a clear case in point being her recent invitation of 2,300 soldiers for the Poll which was not only widely condemned and rejected but also seen by many as “militarization of the Poll with intent to rig the election.”
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/08/imo-poll-groups-demand-rec-others-sack/

Troops of the Nigerian army have killed a suspected member of the outlawed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and arrested two others who attempted to attack soldiers in Imo State, Nigeria’s South-east.

The army spokesperson, Onyema Nwachukwu, who disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday night, said the incident happened at the army’s Forward Operating Base in Ukwuorji along Owerri – Onitsha Expressway in the state.

“The irredentist fighters attempted the attack on the troops on 20 August 2023, but met their waterloo, when they came under the superior firepower of the vigilant troops. The troops neutralised one of the fighters, while two others were arrested, as others fled,” Mr Nwachukwu, a brigadier-general, said.

One vehicle, a mobile phone, a machete, nine empty cases of expended 7.62 mm special ammunition and one empty case of expended 12.7mm ammunition were recovered from the separatists, according to the army.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/08/security-personnel-foil-alleged-ipob-attack-in-imo/

No fewer than 22 military personnel who died in combat in Niger State are being laid to rest at the National Military Cemetery in the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Abuja.

DAILY POST recalls that the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) on August 14, announced the death of at least 36 officers who were killed in battle.

The officers’ helicopter was shot down by some insurgents in the Zungeru area of Niger State.

The troops were deployed to Kundu village in Wushishi Local Government Area after bandits terrorized the area recently.

Some of the deceased officers had already been buried by their various families, remaining the 22 being interred on Friday.

Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, Chief of Defence Staff, Major General Christopher Gwabin Musa, and other service chiefs are currently at the cemetery.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/08/tears-as-nigerian-military-buries-22-officers-killed-in-niger/

An ad hoc committee of the House of Representatives investigating communal clashes in Abia State has called for the release of the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, who is currently in the custody of the State Security Service (SSS).

The committee, chaired by Obinna Aguocha, is investigating banditry around Isiukwuato and Umunnochi Local Government Areas of Abia State.

Mr Aguocha, in his speech at the commencement of the hearing on Thursday, said the committee must navigate the complexity of insecurity in the South-east by tackling the root cause of the problem. He said the steps start with the unconditional release of Mr Kanu.

“For absolute peace, reduction of crime and criminality, investment in meaningful infrastructure development, ending the unproductive sit-at-home and improving economic growth and opportunities in the South-east, starts with the government’s recognition of the rule of law, justice, and equitable inclusion of the South-east zone in the project Nigeria and the unconditional release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu from unlawful detention to ensure lasting peace and security in the entire region,” Mr Aguocha said.

The IPOB leader has been in and out of detention in Nigeria since 2015, the fallout of his run-in with the Nigerian government over his separatist campaigns.

He and IPOB, already designated as a terrorist organisation in Nigeria, are seeking the creation of an independent Biafra nation, comprising most of the areas of the old Eastern Region.

He was arrested in September 2015 and subsequently charged with treasonable felony for allegedly attempting to take up arms against the Nigerian state. The Federal High Court in Abuja granted him bail in 2017.

While he was on bail, the military invaded his country home in Afara-Ukwu, near Umuahia, the Abia State capital, in September 2017. He fled Nigeria in the wake of the military invasion.

He would later appear in Israel after a period of confusion about his whereabouts. After some time, he re-emerged in the UK, where he continued his incendiary Biafra secessionist campaigns through his social media channels, instigating violence in Nigeria’s South-east region.

Mr Kanu has been in detention in Nigeria following his arrest and repatriation from Kenya.

Speaking further, Mr Aguocha said the insecurity in the South-east is impeding development in the region, adding that it is beyond statistics or newspaper headlines.

“The challenges we face are not mere statistics or headlines; they are real-life manifestations that affect the lives of our people, disrupt the functioning of our institutions and communities, thus impeding the growth of our region,” he said.

READ ALSO: Nnamdi Kanu accuses Nigerian govt of resolving to detain him ‘indefinitely’The lawmaker said there is a cross-border element to the communal clashes in the state because Abia State shares boundaries with four other states.

“The cross-border dynamics of the primary focus areas bring additional complexity to the challenges of the task ahead. The common borders, shared with four other states connect the primary focus areas to Ebonyi State via Isiagu, Enugu State via Agwu, Imo states via Okigwe and Anambra via Awka,” he said.

“The opportunity for interstate collaboration presents itself and must be explored to foster regional participation.”

The committee subsequently went into a closed-door session with the Abia State Commissioner of Police, Kenechukwu OnOnwumelie.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/08/reps-panel-call-for-release-of-ipob-leader-nnamdi-kanu/

Mr Peter Obi of the Labour Party, LP, has boasted that his party will win the November 11 governorship election in Imo State, saying that the party is known for performance and excellence.

Obi spoke in Owerri, the State capital, on Tuesday, during the flag off of the party’s gubernatorial campaign.

The former Anambra State governor stated that the people of Abia State now have hope and are witnessing good governance because a “first-class brain” who knows what he is doing is now the governor of the State.

He described the LP governorship candidate, Athan Achonu, as the only candidate of the party in Imo State, and Julius Abure, as the only duly recognised and authentic national chairman of the party, describing the process that produced Achonu as the party’s governorship candidate as credible.

“LP wants to change Nigeria. We are asking Nigeria for the opportunity. Give us a chance in Nigeria, there will be change. In Abia State today, there is hope, that is what is called governance.

“We want Nigeria to have leaders that will do what they preach. We know what it takes to change Nigeria. That is why we are here. We know what it takes to change Imo,” he said.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/08/guber-polls-peter-obi-boasts-lp-will-take-imo/

There was pandemonium in Owerri, the Imo State capital, following the gruesome murder of a couple identified as Mr. and Mrs. Sampson Owobo by three unknown gunmen on Sunday night.

Naija News gathered that Mr. Owobo, a retired Assistant Superintendent of Police from Edo State, was killed alongside his wife at around 8 pm beside the Chisco Transport company office very close to the Owerri Area police command office, which also houses the Owerri Urban Police Divisional headquarters at Egbu Road-Owerri, the state capital.

While the residents immediately ran inside and locked all entries leading to their apartments, business people locked their shops and ran home.

An eyewitness told The PUNCH that the fleeing armed men, who operated in a vehicle, were trying to dispossess the couple who run a Point Of Sale business of their bag containing the unidentified amount of money.

It was gathered from the eyewitness that when the gunmen could not succeed in snatching the bag of money, they shot the retired ASP at close range at his forehead and also shot his wife at her left-hand side, close to her chest at a close range.

While the husband died on the spot, his wife was rushed to the Federal Medical Centre, Owerri, by police officers, where she was pronounced dead.

He said, “Three armed men just killed a husband and his wife. This incident happened close to the Chisco Transport company office, which is very close to Owerri Police Area command headquarters and Owerri Urban Police Divisional headquarters, at the fire Service on Egbu Road-Owerri.

“The armed robbers were carrying pump action riffles and were trying to carry a bag containing money. The husband and wife run a POS business and also sell loaves of bread. When they could not succeed in carrying the bag of money, they shot the couple on closed ranges.

“They shot the man on a closed range at his forehead, closed to his eyes. They shot his wife on a close range too, at her left-hand side, very close to her chest. While the man died immediately, his wife, who was bleeding profusely, was pronounced dead at FMC-Owerri.

“The man’s name is Sampson Owobo. He hailed from Edo State. He is a retired police officer. He retired with the rank of ASP. He retired about five years ago or so.

“The armed robbers fled and haven’t been caught. This is so bad. This crime happened very close to the Owerri fire service police area command headquarters and the Owerri Urban Police Divisional headquarters.”

Confirming the incident, the spokesperson for the police in the state, Henry Okoye, said that the police in the state were on the trail of the fleeing suspects.

“The murder of the couple is highly condemnable. The CP frowns at the killing of the couple, and he has immediately ordered an investigation into their killings with the mandate to apprehend the fleeing criminals.” Okoye said.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/08/tension-in-imo-state-as-unknown-gunmen-strike-kill-retired-policeman/

Spain captain Olga Carmona, who scored her country's winner in the Women's World Cup final, was told after the game that her father had died.

Carmona, 23, scored the only goal as Spain beat England to claim the trophy.

The Real Madrid left-back's father had been fighting a long illness and died on Friday, Reuters reported.

"I know you have been watching me tonight and that you are proud of me. Rest in peace dad," Carmona wrote on social media.

Carmona included a picture of her kissing her winners' medal along with the message.

She added: "And without knowing it, I had my star before the game started. I know that you have given me the strength to achieve something unique."

A gold star is added to the shirt of the winners of a World Cup, above the national team crest, every time they win the trophy.

"The RFEF deeply regrets to announce the death of Olga Carmona's father," the Spanish Football Association (RFEF) wrote on social media.

"The footballer learned the sad news after the World Cup final.

"We send our most sincere embrace to Olga and her family in a moment of deep sorrow. We love you, Olga, you are Spanish soccer history."

Carmona started five of Spain's seven games at the World Cup.

Spanish media outlet Relevo said her family and friends decided not to tell her so she could focus on the final, with her mother and brothers arriving in Australia on Saturday to support her.

Her club Real Madrid also expressed "condolences and affection for Olga, her relatives and all her loved ones".
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/08/spain-captain-who-learnt-of-fathers-death-after-winning-world-cup/

Hundreds of coup supporters gathered in Niger's capital Niamey in a rally on Sunday to show their support for the military junta.

The demonstrators who flew both Niger and Russian flags expressed solidarity with the soldiers who overthrew their elected president, Mohamed Bazoum, last month.

It followed an announcement on Saturday by the military ruler, Gen Abdourahamane Tchiani, warning against any outside intervention.

He also announced a three-year transition plan, and said the principles for the transition would be decided within 30 days at a "dialogue" hosted by the coup leaders.

In a televised address shortly after meeting a peace delegation from the West African regional bloc, Ecowas, Gen Tchiani said the country did not want a war but warned they defend against any foreign intervention.

He denounced the Ecowas sanctions imposed on the country saying they were not aimed at finding a solution but "to bring us to our knees and humiliate us".

It was a further show of defiance after the Ecowas mediators held peace talks with the junta leaders in a last-ditch effort to reach a diplomatic solution to the political crisis.

Ecowas has said its standby force is ready to intervene if peaceful efforts to resolve the crisis are unsuccessful.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/08/coup-supporters-rally-in-nigers-capital/

The Nigerian Army, the Police, DSS and other security Agencies, would provide their personnel to cover the November 11, 2023 Governorship election in Imo State

According to the Imo State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Prof Sylvia Agu, ” the Army has agreed to release about 2,300 personnel to cover the election in the state”

Speaking at the two day workshop for journalists in the state organized by the International press centre (IPC) tagged, EU- support to Democratic Governance in Nigeria, (EU-SDGN 11) Component 4, support to media, the Electoral Commissioner, said,” adequate security had been put in place and would provided by the Army, Police , DSS and other security Agencies in the state smooth conduct of the election”

She said further that the commission and the security Agencies have met on the election issue pointing out that assurance has been given by the high command of the agencies

The Commissioner believed that the election would be hitch free and smooth

Reacting to questions from journalists, on the outcome of the last House of Assembly elections in the state, where one political party, the All Progressives Congress (APC) won 25, out of the 27 local Government seats of the House of Assembly, the REC said that the result announced by the Commission was authentic results recorded by the commission’s personnel in that election

She said that some of the media mis reported the election by reporting that the election was declared 27 over 27 in favor of the ruling party, All Progressives Congress (APC)

The REC said, ” it is not true that INEC declared 27 over 37 in favor of one party in that election

She further said that she did her job and best as electoral commissioner by providing the required logistics for the election and relied on the staff of INEC who were in the field to conduct the election

” I very much relied on the information given to me by the staff of the commission and the electoral Act which provided guidelines for us” She explained

However, during the interface, at the workshop, the program officer officer of the International Press Centre, (IPC) Melody Akinjiyan set the ball rolling as She welcomed participants and resource persons to the workshop

The first resource person, and Chief Executive Officer, of a Radio Station, Omalicha Radio station, Ms Angela Agoawike dwelt so much on gender issue as regards Governance and reporting Imo state Governorship election

She however commended the decision of the state Governor Hope Uzodimma for considering women in his administration and chosing a woman as his deputy in the coming election

Also dwelling on the topic, Media and Election Apps, the code of election coverage and other issues of safety, Mr Lanre Arogundade, Executive Director, IPC, through his representative,r Ayo Aluko–Olokun, Editor Nigerian Democratic Reporting NDR, threw more light on why journalists should take safety precautions while covering elections

In his own presentation, on impactful reporting of the elections, focussing on people interest issues and telling stories that matters Mr Taiwo One founder journalism clinic, spoke extensively on the practice of journalism and why there should be updates and positive review in the practice

He further explained the importance of covering the coming Imo State Governorship Election using digital tools and apps

On the overview of the EU–SDGN, Mr Lanre Arogundade Executive Director, International Press Centre (IPC) through Mr Ayo Aluko-Olaokun, Editor Nigeria Democratic Report (NDR) and Mr Akin Akingbolu Executive Director Center for Media and Society (CEMESO) harped on the accurate reportage of elections

The Executive Director of CEMESO also talked on deepening the delivery of voter education towards the Imo State Governorship election across media platform

On this however the issue of voter buying and the inclusion of marginalized group featured prominently
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/08/imo-governorship-election-nigerian-army-police-dss-to-provide-personnel/

Saudi border guards are accused of the mass killing of migrants along the Yemeni border in a new report by Human Rights Watch.

The report says hundreds of people, many of them Ethiopians who cross war-torn Yemen to reach Saudi Arabia, have been shot dead.

Migrants have told the BBC they had limbs severed by gunfire and saw bodies left on the trails.

Saudi Arabia has previously rejected allegations of systematic killings.

The Human Rights Watch (HRW) report, titled They Fired On Us Like Rain, contains graphic testimony from migrants who say they were shot at and sometimes targeted with explosive weapons by Saudi police and soldiers on Yemen's rugged northern border with Saudi Arabia.

Migrants contacted separately by the BBC have spoken of terrifying night-time crossings during which large groups of Ethiopians, including many women and children, came under fire as they attempted to cross the border in search of work in the oil-rich kingdom.

"The shooting went on and on," 21-year-old Mustafa Soufia Mohammed told the BBC.

He said some in his group of 45 migrants were killed when they came under fire as they tried to sneak across the border in July last year.

"I didn't even notice I was shot," he said, "but when I tried to get up and walk, part of my leg was not with me."

It was a brutal, chaotic end to a three-month journey fraught with danger, starvation and violence at the hands of Yemeni and Ethiopian smugglers.

A video filmed hours later shows his left foot almost completely severed. Mustafa's leg was amputated below the knee and now, back with his parents in Ethiopia, he walks with crutches and an ill-fitting prosthetic limb.

"I went to Saudi Arabia because I wanted to improve my family's life," the father-of-two said, "but what I hoped for didn't materialise. Now my parents do everything for me."

Another Ethiopian migrant, who we are calling Ibsaa to protect his identity, said he was shot at the border by men wearing Saudi military uniforms.

"They beat us, killed some and took those who survived to the hospital. The bodies of those killed were left scattered on the ground," he told the BBC.

"I was shot between my thighs near my groin, and my legs are paralyzed now. I can't even walk. I thought I would die."

Some survivors show signs of deep trauma.

In the Yemeni capital, Zahra can barely bring herself to speak about what happened.

She says she is 18, but looks younger. We are not using her real name to protect her identity.

Her journey, which had already cost around $2,500 (£1,950) in ransoms and bribes, ended in a hail of bullets at the border.

One bullet took all the fingers of one hand. Asked about her injury, she looks away and cannot answer.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/08/hundreds-of-migrants-killed-by-saudi-border-guards-report/

South Africa's President Cyril Ramaphosa has reiterated that his country will not be drawn into global power dynamics.

Mr Ramaphosa's televised address came ahead of the meeting of the Brics nations - Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa - in Johannesburg on Tuesday.

"We will not be drawn into a contest between global powers. Instead, our country strives to work with all countries for global peace and development," he said.

He noted, however, that this "does not mean that we are neutral on matters of principle and national interest".

Russia's President Vladimir Putin will participate virtually after he reached agreement with Mr Ramaphosa not to attend.

He is the target of an International Criminal Court arrest warrant following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. South Africa is required under its law to arrest him if he enters the country.

The Brics nations account for about a quarter of the global economy and interest in joining the group has surged this year.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/08/sa-leader-stresses-neutrality-ahead-of-brics-summit/

A chieftain of Peoples Democratic Party(PDP), Chief Daboikiabo Warmate, has filed a suit against, the Acting National Chairman of the party, Amb. Umar Damagum over alleged negligence to party constitution.

Warmate, who is also the leader of the Concerned PDP League (CPDPL), also dragged the National Working Committee (NWC) and National Executive Committee (NEC) of the party.

The suit came in as an Originating Summons, Motion on Notice and Affidavit of Urgency marked: FCT/HC/GAR/CU/417/2023, FCT/HC/GAR/M/1068/2023 and RN 12936423 .

Warmate alleged that, the acting chairman, NWC and NEC negligently and flagrantly disrespected, disregarded and jettisoned section 31 subsection 4 of the PDP 2017 constitution as amended.

He said the section states that; “the NEC shall meet at least once in every quarter at the instance of the National Chairman or at the request of two-third of its membership, who shall notify the Chairman at least seven days prior to the meeting; and an emergency meeting may be summoned by the National Chairman having regard to all the circumstances of the agenda.”

He alleged that since the 97th NEC meeting held in Sept. 8, 2022, no such meeting has taken place again.

Warmate said, based on the Gregorian calendar three (3) months makes one quarter and there are 12 months, making four quarters in a year.

He therefore, sought for an order restraining 1st to 3rd defendants i.e the acting chairman, the NWC and the NEC from carrying out any further activities of the party.

He also sought an order for a NEC meeting within seven days to elect or appoint, fill or to ratify the position of the Acting capacity of the National Chairman to a substantive National Chairman and National Secretary and other party officials whose positions are vacant.

The PDP chieftain further sought an order of court directing the 1st to 3rd defendants to pay five million naira only as cost of action and various expenses incurred in the course of the case.

The suit is yet to be assigned to a judge.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/08/pdp-chieftain-drags-ag-chairman-others-to-court-over-alleged-negligence-of-party-constitution/

Manchester City defender John Stones has been ruled out of action until after the international break, manager Pep Guardiola has confirmed.

Stones, 29, suffered a muscle injury in pre-season and missed City's opening two Premier League matches and remained on the bench for their Super Cup win.

The next international break is between 4 and 12 September.

Stones could miss England's Euro qualifier against Ukraine and a friendly against Scotland next month.

He is set to miss City's next two Premier League games against Sheffield United on 27 August and Fulham on 2 September.

The club are also without key midfielder Kevin de Bruyne, who has had surgery on a hamstring injury and could be out of action for four months.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/08/john-stones-ruled-out-until-after-international-break-with-injury/

The Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) on Thursday announced a partnership with LaLiga, the Spanish league, to train Nigerian players.

Gbenga Elegbeleye, the Chairman of the League Management Company (LMC) made the announcement at a press conference in Lagos.

Consequently, the NPFL inaugurated a Technical Committee to identify 11 All Star best league players at the end of the 2023/2024 league to train and play with the best of LaLiga teams.

Elegbeleye said the partnership was born out of the need to make the Nigerian league more viable and reward hard work.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Nigerian league league is scheduled to kick-off Sept. 9 across the country.

The technical committee for the All Stars is headed by Harrison Jala as chairman, with Austin Eguaveon, Daniel Amokachi, Godwin Nwa, Deji Omotoyinbo, Segun Agbede and Mitchel Obi as members.

The All-Star squad will travel to Spain for two weeks to play friendly games with top LaLiga teams, while the coach with the highest point will travel with the 11 All Star team.

“We undertook a thorough process of selecting members of this panel to cut across players, coaches and the media. We picked the committee members across board.

“We picked persons with the right pedigree and there is no doubt that they will give us the right squad each month. So, those selected understand that this is a call to service

“There’s an agreement we have secured with top LaLiga Clubs to host our NPFL All Stars squad to play against some other top teams in Spain. This will further enrich the experience of our players, as they will have the opportunity to play with the best,” he said.

Jala, the chairman of the committee, said the committee was ready for the task ahead.

He assured that the 2023/2024 league season would be more innovative in order to build on the success of the previous season.

“This is call to service; we intend to make fairness our watchword and give our league a facelift, and make it better than the 2022/2023 league season.

“If you check the calibre of people on the committee you’d see that they’re seasoned professionals in their irrespective fields. We are open to suggestions and ideas but fairness remains our watchword,” he said

Basil Kabbani, the Chairman of Propel Sports Africa, applauded the Group Managing Director of GTI Group and the NPFL.

He announced that additional three AI cameras were delivered ahead of the 2023/2024 season.

“Pixellos, the world-leading provider of AI-automated sports video and data solutions, and ITV Africa are proud to be in partnership with NPFL, GTI and Propel Sports Africa, revolutionising sports coverage in the country with a broad coverage of the league’s matches,” he said.

(NAN)
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/08/npfl-partners-la-liga-to-train-players-inaugurates-selection-committee/

The gubernatorial candidate of the Labour Party ( LP),for the November 11 Imo state governorship polls ,Senator Athan Achonu has the described the state as a painted sepulchre, saying that the purported developmental stride of the current administration is nothing but an orchestrated propaganda to deceive the outside world when the state is indeed in a rotten state .

He has also urged Imo people never to cast their votes for conmen and persons with no verifiable sources of livelihood except politics in the forthcoming 11 November state governorship election ,stressing that such persons have nothing to offer them but misery.

Senator Achonu who stated this Owerri at the weekend during an interactive session with select journalists.

He reiterated that he had decided to join the Imo state governorship race to return the state to a progressive path of real development by providing the enabling environment devoid of politics to bring back Imo business men and women who are willing to invest in the state, but that they have stayed away because of lack of confidence in the government of the state .

The LP gubernatorial alleged that the state has been held hostage for several years by conmen and criminal elements who have always rigged themselves into power, but that the 11 November governorship will be different .

Said He: “I decided to contest for governorship election because of my believe we can recover Imo state back from those conmen who had held the state by the jugular for several years ,and to laid the foundation of the ‘Aku ro ulo philosophy which I have been preaching for several years .That is encouraging our people to bring part of the invest home to create will create jobs for our youths and ultimately reduce poverty .But , this will not be possible when you have conmen in charge of the state. This has been the situation for several years because a man who rigged himself to into office is not accountable to anybody but to himself and ,is not interested in the real development of the state.

Continuing , ” I know what I have suffered in investing in the state and how the state governments have always scuttled it. I had wanted to built a mega mall and that was why I had bought a 60 percent of the Imo Hotels from Nzeako, that 10 storey building that is rotting away today in Owerri was meant for the Radisson Hotel but the state government would not allow it see the light of the day. I was given a license for a refinery at Ohaji and industrial park but the state government also ensured that it was scuttled. So , our brothers are afraid to bring their invest home for fear of their investments being destroyed for political reasons but if I become the governor it will never happen “.

Senator Achonu also disclosed that his efforts to ensure that the Sam Mbakwe Cargo Airport was activated also came to nought .

” I had approached ex- president Goodluck Jonathan and even Governor Hope Uzodimma , then Chairman , Senate Aviation committee to push for the activation of the Imo Cargo Airport but they were not interested and that is why the Imo Cargo Airport has not been activated till today , rather what Okorocha did was to dash the Nigeria Air force part of the land along the Airport road and gave the rest to his cronies . But as a governor that would not have happened because it is huge loss to our state both in employment opportunities and revenue to the state.

People are shouting the praises of Governor Uzodimma that he is building roads and you ask yourself which roads? The federal roads that he is doing credit facility? And will reimburse the state with some of them with potholes ? Those praising him can’t visit their various local communities either as a result of terrible roads or for fear of being kidnapped or killed unknown gunmen which resulted in majority of the people fleeing the state? Even the governor lives in Abuja”.

However, he has assured Imo people that the Labour Party is the party to beat and also boasted that they can’t be rigged out .
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/08/imo-is-a-painted-sepulchre-achonu/