The Senate has summoned Security Chiefs over the Christmas Eve attacks on Plateau communities.

The incident occurred on December 23, 2023 and snowballed to 24 while residents were preparing for the Christmas celebration.

Houses were razed and properties were looted during the attacks.

The Chief of Army Staff, Taoreed Lagbaja; Chief of Air Staff, Hassan Abubakar; Director-General of the Department of State Services, DSS, Yusuf Bichi; and Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun are among those invited.

After the event was brought to the attention of the Senate on Saturday by Senator Diiket Plang, who represents Plateau Central, the upper legislative chamber agreed to invite the security chiefs.

While moving the motion, Plang expressed dismay over the attacks that have displaced many residents in the affected communities.

Contributing to the debate, Senator Titus Zam, the senator representing Benue north-west, lamented that the service chiefs did not have a grasp of the security situation in the country.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/12/senate-summons-security-chiefs-over-plateau-massacre/

As part of activities in giving back to it's alma mater, the old girls of Anglican Girls Grammar School (AGGS), Ughelli, had giving out awards to six deserving students of the institution at a recent event.

The Award/Prize giving ceremony, now in its third year, is a collaboration between the Namita Mazumdar Endowment Fund (NMEF) and AGGS, Ughelli.

NMEF is an annual Award/Prize giving event founded by Mrs. Namita Mazumdar, a former Principal of the school with a Board of Trustees chaired by Mrs. Stellamaris Ufuoma Omu (a retired School Principal/Renown Educationist).

The objectives of the Endowment Fund is to promote high disciplinary standard among students of AGGS, Ughelli.

Six deserving students of SSS & JSS clinched the Awards/Prizes at the 2023 event.

The Chairman of the occasion, Mr. Cyril Ogude, an Old Boy of Government College Ughelli, in his dynamic philanthropy, donated magnanimously at the occasion.

Delivering the keynote address titled "Career Prospects in Information and Communication Technology and Guidance & Counselling,”An Old Girl, Prof. Mrs. Francisca U. Egbokhare, from the Department of Computer Science, University of Benin, Benin City, admonished the students on proper guidance in choosing their future career.

.To represent the class of 1977 was the Mother of the Day, Honourable Mrs. Palestine Eghove, an Old Girl.

She led the donation of a new School Sign Board, unbehalf of the class of 1977 which was unveiled and dedicated at the occasion.

The Special Guest of Honour was the School Proprietor, His Grace, Most Rev. Cyril Odiboroghene Odutemu, Archbishop, Bendel Ecclesiastical Province and Bishop of Ughelli Diocese of the Anglican Communion.

Prof. Ngozi Iloh noted that the Third Award/Prize Giving ceremony was well attended on site and online.

Iloh said that no fewer than 500 participants graced the occasion, among which were notably Dame Rosaline Edobor, JP (Chairman, Diocesian Education Advisers’ Committee), Rev. Atevure Ezekiel College (Principal of the School), Rev. Canon Godblessing Igho Anago, JP (Immediate Past Principal) and his wife, old girls, teachers, staff and students as well as awardees and past awardees.

The 2023 awardees included

- Miss Esikomunu Floxxy Akpevweoghene - SSS

- Miss Jemifor Ikuesiri - SSS

- Miss Echerebor Angel Oghenetekevwe - SSS

- Miss Ibagere Enifome - JSS

- Miss Anago Uvietobore Dominant - JSS

- Miss Odjighere Oghenetejiri - JSS

Iloh explained that the NMEF started in 2021 and has become a rallying force for the Old Girls of AGGS worldwide, as they were getting more conscious of the need to give back to their alma mater.

According to her It is worthy of note that the Award winners for the SSS category in the last two years were already doing very well in their chosen careers in the universities within and outside the country.

"We look forward to a greater outing in the coming years," Iloh added.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/12/namita-mazumdar-endowment-fund-dishes-out-awards-to-students/

A ghastly motor accident has claimed the lives of eight persons in one family. 

The tragic event which occurred  at Amanwozuzu junction in the Ikeduru Local Government Area of Imo State, around 3 pm on Friday, December 29, 2023.

A man who was driving his wife and children in a Sienna vehicle crashed into a stationary truck carrying rods and they all eventually lost their lives according to police statements and eyewitness accounts. 

The impact of the collision was devastating, as the rods pierced the bodies of the victims, leading to the tragic demise of all family members on the spot.

The sorrowful scene prompted the intervention of both law enforcement and local residents.

Policemen and concerned citizens worked together to dismantle the vehicle, recovering the lifeless bodies of the family.

Subsequently, law enforcement officers from the Ikeduru Local Government Area Division transported the deceased to a nearby morgue.

Chief Superintendent of Police Lucky Ahiole, the Divisional Police Officer overseeing the Ikeduru LGA, provided insights into the harrowing incident.

According to him, the stationary truck was parked at the roadside when the Sienna vehicle collided with it, resulting in the catastrophic loss of eight lives.

Expressing the gravity of the situation, DPO Ahiole as quoted by THE NATION stated, “It is terrible. Eight died, and we have taken them to a morgue.

“We had to break the Sienna vehicle to bring out the dead bodies. The rod pierced their eyes and bodies, and even the children died.”

However, an eyewitness presented a different perspective, asserting that the stationary truck, loaded with rods, obstructed the road and urged the police to investigate the truck driver.

In this account, the tragic outcome might have been averted if the truck had not been parked on the road, raising questions about the circumstances leading to the heart-wrenching accident.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/12/road-accident-claim-family-of-8-in-imo/

Heartland FC of Owerri moved two points away from relegation zone after beating league leaders Remo Stars in a nervy game. 

The Owerri outfit opened the scoring in the 50th minute  when Promise Anyanwu scored from the penalty spot to put the home side ahead. 

Remo Stars who were determined to get something from the game responded 19 minutes later when Alimi Sikiru leveled for the visitors. 

Remo Stars looked to have secured a point from the game before Onyekachi Okafor put the home side ahead again at the stroke of the final minute. 

Substitute Chinedu Ike sealed the game for the Naze Millionaires with a fine goal,in the fourth minute of added time, ensuring they leapfrog out of the relegation zone. 

The win saw Heartland FC move from bottom of the table to 5 steps away in 16th position. 

Heartland FC will look to consolidate on the victory when they travel to Niger Tornadoes on January 10 2024.

Meanwhile, Remo Stars remain at the top of the table despite the loss.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/12/two-late-goals-help-heartland-fc-beat-remo-stars-in-owerri/

A shipper, Rev. Jonathan Nicole, says the nation’s ports need drastic economic policy reforms in 2024 to be more viable and competitive.

Nicole disclosed this to newsmen on Thursday in Lagos.

Nicole, a former President, Shippers Association of Lagos State, called for the restructuring of the Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs).

He added that government agencies not needed in the port should return to their various ministries.

Nicole also urged the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr Adegboyega Oyetola, to work towards achieving this feat.

“The restructuring of the MDAs would bring dramatic progress into the port.

“The management of the Nigerian Ports Authority has also called for the reduction of the MDAs in the port.

“We agree with them. They are the owners of the port and they know those that are relevant in dealing with port issues.

“Shippers associations across the country will offer their support to the introduction of a new Port Order and restructuring of the method of rules of engagement into the sector.

“The informal sector of the economy should be encouraged,” he said.

Nicole described the present situation as pathetic, adding that most importers had lost their properties used in securing bank loans.

He attributed their failure to repay the loans to policy somersaults.

Nicole said the maritime sector was pioneered by traders, importers and exporters as well as manufacturers.

He noted that the 2023 was characterised by outrageous taxes and duties due to targets given to the Nigeria Customs Service.

Nicole added that the fluctuation in foreign exchange rate affected importers and manufacturers grossly in 2023.

“Cost of clearing skyrocketed to a strangulating proportion. Some importers abandoned their goods due to inability to raise additional funds to meet choking demands.

“The 400 per cent increase in terminal charge is another herculean challenge for shippers depending on the volume of cargo involved.

“We are hopeful as the Nigerian Shippers’ Council executive secretary settles down, an equitable price regime will be re-introduced to replace the current system,” he said.

He noted that with the high cost of doing business in the port, importers had no choice than to either continue or relocate to a more sane environment.

“The moment some of these obstacles and pressures are eliminated, the industry would flourish and become highly competitive,” he said.

He listed some of the abnormal pressures as high cost of diesel and fuel, tax regimes, introduction of tax returns, closure of small and medium businesses by the Corporate Affairs Commission and unrealistic tax reforms.

Others, according to him, are reduction in terminal charges and shipping costs, reduction in customs duty tariffs, costs of haulage of goods, and total stoppage of closure of ports due to unnecessary industrial activities, among others.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/12/2024-nigerian-ports-need-new-economic-policy-reforms-shipper/

The Governor of Plateau State, Caleb Murtfwang, has declared that the killings in the state must be brought to an end.

The governor said he has already cried out to President Bola Tinubu to fish out the killers and also put a permanent end to the attacks in the state.

Murtfwang, in a statement he shared on X, said he has had discussions with Tinubu, adding that there are many decisions they have taken and agreed upon.

DAILY POST recalls that on Christmas Eve over a hundred people were killed in several communities in Bokkos and Barkin Ladi LGAs of the state.

“We are grateful to the President, His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who was represented by the Vice President Kashim Shettima, for treating the situation in Plateau State as an urgent one,” he wrote.

“I appreciate the Vice President for stating how deeply shaken they are by the heinous killings of the people of Plateau State.

“We cannot pardon what has happened and when I spoke with His Excellency, the President, my cry to him was that the shedding of blood on the Plateau must stop.

“The recent happenings were totally uncalled for, unprovoked and barbaric. We know that these killings were not done by ghosts and the Federal Government has to fish out these perpetrators.

“I have discussed with Mr President and there are many decisions we have taken and agreed upon and I will not rest until those decisions are implemented.

“We will do everything to right the wrongs of the past and make sure that people that are in immediate need of health care will be attended to.

“I have been praying for this day that we the leaders of the Plateau will become united and I want to believe the seed of that unity has been sown.”
https://www.otowngist.com/?p=186049

A policeman attached to the Imo State Police Command, Cosmas Ugwu, has been shot dead by his girlfriend.

Ugwu was shot dead on Tuesday by his 23-year-old lover, who was identified as Amanda Uchechi Ugo, a native of Ahiazu Mbaise Local Government Area of Imo State.

PUNCH Metro gathered from reliable sources that the incident occurred around 6:30 pm on Boxing Day at the Ezinihitte Area Command.

Officers on counter duty were said to have heard three gunshots from the room being occupied by the deceased officer.

“When police officers ran into the room to see what was going on, they found Corporal Ugwu lying in a pool of his blood.

The girl shot him three times in his chest and his left hand. He was rushed immediately to Evergreen Hospital in Ezinihitte, where he was pronounced dead by the doctor on duty,” a source told our correspondent in a chat on Wednesday.

Our correspondent learnt that the deceased had a serious fight with his girlfriend, and in the course of the altercation, the girl reached for his rifle, pulled the trigger and shot him three times.

The source added, “Nobody actually knows what went wrong between the two, but how the girl was able to use a police rifle successfully is still a surprise to many. Maybe, Ugwu was the one who taught her.”

PUNCH Metro reports that the remains of the slain officer had been deposited at the Obizi mortuary, while further investigation continues.

 The suspect is currently in police custody for interrogation and possible prosecution.

When contacted by our correspondent, the Police Public Relations Officer in Imo State, Henry Okoye, confirmed the incident exclusively to PUNCH Metro, saying the police were doing everything to ascertain what transpired.

“Yes, the incident happened. A policeman was allegedly shot dead by his girlfriend. He was serving at Ezinihitte Mbaise. Currently, the girl involved has been arrested. We are doing everything to ensure we investigate the matter, to ascertain the fact and possibly arraign the suspect in court,” Okoye stated in a telephone conversation.
https://www.otowngist.com/?p=186038

Abia State Governor Alex Otti has signed into law the 2024 Appropriation Bill of N567.2 billion, recently passed by the State House of Assembly.

Otti, while signing the bill on Thursday, said the 2024 Budget would move Abia from its current level of underdevelopment to development.

“I want to say that this is a budget that would take Abia State out of underdevelopment to development. The journey of a thousand miles starts with one step.

“This is the first step, once we get things right, and we know we will get them right, the next few years will be uhuru for all our people, those living here and those who come from here and our friends,” he declared.

The governor noted that the budget ratio of 84 per cent for capital expenditure and 16 per cent for recurrent expenditure was not a mistake but a deliberate plan to accelerate the growth of Abia economy within a short space of time.

“That we devoted 84% of the budget to capital expenditure is not an error. If you went through the details of the budget, you will find out that every kobo we intend to borrow will go into infrastructure or mapped out to infrastructure. Our discussions are on and we believe that as we require the funding, we will get them,” Otti affirmed.

He added that the budget is expected to activate foreign and local investment, spur large scale and medium businesses, secure the state and prepare Abia for the next level of development.

Otti commended the Speaker and members of the State House of Assembly for the expeditious passage of the bill.

Earlier, the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt Hon. Emmanuel Emeruwa, affirmed that the budget would touch the lives of Abia people positively.

“The aim of passing the budget before the 31st of December 2023 is to ensure that the 2024 Budget becomes operational from the 1st of January 2024,” he said.

Also speaking, the Deputy Speaker, Rt Hon. Austin Okezie Nmeregini, assured that the 2024 Budget will make a difference in Abia, and pledged that the House will carry out its oversight functions towards its implementation.

DAILY POST reports that the budget signing ceremony was witnessed by members of the State House of Assembly, commissioners, special advisers, the Accountant General of the State, and others.

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https://www.otowngist.com/?p=186028

By Ethelbert Okere

In more ways than one, Jerry Chukwueke’s outing on Channels Television’s Politics Today programme on Christmas day was a good summary of the experience of the people of Imo state in the about-to-be concluded first term of Governor Hope Uzodimma. It is not an entirely new narrative but Chief Chukwueke quite succinctly reiterated the point that, viewed against the back drop of what he met on ground, Governor Uzodimma’s performance is worthy of scholarly inquiry.

As against the interviewer’s apparent mindset that the governor did not transform Imo state into a paradise in four years – as if any governor in Nigeria has ever done so – Chuwkueke told his host that Governor Uzodimma could indeed be likened a magician, going by what was witnessed in the state. The trust of Chukwueke’s argument was that it took guts, vision and a clear sense of mission for Governor Uzodimma to have been able to record the giant strides he made under very debilitating circumstances, especially the spate of insecurity and hostility from some opposition elements, upon assumption of office.

A typical Nigerian Governor, Chukwueke apparently meant, would have resigned to fate: go to Abuja every month to collect the state’s allocation from the federation account; return to Owerri or indeed stay back there; help himself, his family members and cronies and make a pretence at one or two white elephant projects. Chukwueke, Governor Uzodimma’s Technical Adviser on the New Imo Project and a fellow gifted with rare eloquence, went ahead to point at those things that set Uzodimma aside and which endeared him to the people.

It is, of course, needless to re-tabulate Governor Uzodimma’s milestone achievements here – since they are well known – but what we cannot be tired of saying is that, as succinctly put by Chukwueke, Imo state will witness a rapid transformation in the next four years if it is spared of the politically contrived insecurity that was its lot in the last four years. Listen to Chukwueke’s opener: “We need more peace and quiet for development to go to the next level”.

In my view, there couldn’t be a better way of putting it. Even so, Chukwueke most appropriately mirrored one of the very well known attributes of the Governor: Level headedness. For, rather than create an impression of invincibility around himself – having succeeded were others dared not – the governor still goes about preaching the message of peace among his people. The typical Nigerian politician, who found himself were Uzodimma was and compares it with where he is now, would be talking tough, boastful and denigrating his opponents.

Chukwueke continues: “Our Governor is very desirous of peace and is appealing to Imolites across the board, parents, brothers, sisters and all those that are in contact or can influence those in agitation, those in criminal activities, those who are hiding under the platform of insurgency, known and unknown gun men, everyone who has contributed to insecurity etc to please cease and desist in the interest of Imo state…”. The Governor’s aide further noted that “Our Governor is desirous of ensuring that more and more resources are directed towards economic and social development as opposed to development of security infrastructure.

He then went ahead to list the key issues involved in the governor’s agenda in the next four years, prominent among which are job creation - mostly through skill acquisition – and infrastructural development; pointing out that the governor’s determination is best underscored by the fact that in the 2024 budget proposal, over 70 per cent is for capital projects and then went on and on to identify the strategic achievements of the Uzodimma administration especially in the areas of road infrastructure, health care service, education etc.

But the anchor, not ready to be outsmarted, began to real out indices that seemed not to have painted the state, under Governor Uzodimma, in a flattering language. He talked about high debt profile, shrinking internally-generated revenue and over dependence on federal allocation, high unemployment level etc. To be fair to him, the anchor of the show was trying not to sound patronizing but he manifested the same weakness as most of his colleagues either due to lack of adequate information or sheer mischief.

For example, he raised the issue of the governors “promise” to send four thousand Imo youths abroad for employment in Europe. Said he: “Before the election, the governor promised to send four thousand youths abroad to get employed in Europe. This is December, what happen to that?”. Then ensued what looked like “Did He Or Did He Not?”, debate but Chuwkueke, an experienced public affairs commentator, took control: He told his host that what the governor said was that Imo youths, under the Skill-Up Imo programme, are being equipped with skills that will make them become part of the global work force. He further explained that the state government, under Governor Uzodimma, and as part of the Skill-Up Imo programme, is engaging members of the international community who are seeking for the skills of the products of the programme, adding that many have already travelled abroad to take up offers in that regard.

We can go on and on to look at the whole gamut of issues raised in the interview under review but what, in my view, stands out most is that it offered the Uzodimma administration another opportunity to once again underscore the Renewed Hope message of the governor to the people while canvassing for a renewal of his mandate. Governor Uzodimma was deliberate in making his promises to the people and the latter have no reason to disbelieve him. This is how we knew:.

Senator Uzodimma took over the mantle of leadership of Imo state in less than twenty four hours after the Supreme Court restored his stolen mandate on January 14, 2020. He did not have the privilege of going through a transition period which the framers of the nation’s constitution in their wisdom made provision for. He went straight into governance the next day even without handover notes. As if that was not enough, he was greeted with the covid-19 pandemic which broke out in Nigeria the same month he was sworn into office.

Unlike Uzodimma, majority of the governors of the other thirty five states of the federation had put in over seven months before the pandemic set in. Yet, Imo recorded one of the lowest cases throughout the period of the global calamity. Then, of course, the scourge of insecurity with consequences that were quite devastating on the social and economic fortunes of the state and its people.

What informed this short commentary after watching Chief Jerry Chukwueke on television was that he again brought to the fore a fact nobody must ignore in appraising Governor Uzodimma’s first four years in office. As I have already agreed with him, the governor performance’s, even in the face of the debilitating obstacles he was confronted with, teaches a big lesson which anybody that is desirous of ascending to such an office in Nigeria should learn off by heart. If His Excellency could perform so creditably well under such conditions, then it is only left to be imagined what the future of Imo state will be in the next four years if, as Chukwueke canvassed in his interview, the purportedly aggrieved fellows will allow “peace and quiet” to return.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/12/deconstructing-jerry-chukwuekes-prognosis-on-imo/

Former Manchester United star, Paul Parker has claimed that Rasmus Hojlund is ‘frustrated’ with his teammates and hated by everyone.

Hohl und moved to Old Trafford in a deal worth £72m from Atalanta last summer.

The Denmark international finally scored his first Premier League goal in Man United’s 3-2 victory over Aston Villa in mid-week.

“Everyone hates Manchester United and Rasmus Hojlund,” Parker told Tipsbladet.

“Experts and critics hope that he fails because he plays for the world’s biggest club, which nobody likes.

“The good thing is that the fans have always supported him, and they will continue to do so.

“I think he has been frustrated with his teammates because they don’t provide him with the best conditions to score goals.”
https://www.otowngist.com/?p=186024

More than 40 people were feared dead when a tanker truck exploded after crashing in central Liberia, the country’s chief medical officer told local media on Wednesday.

The tanker carrying gasoline crashed and tipped into a ditch along a road in Totota, about 130 kilometres (80 miles) from the capital Monrovia.

Dr Francis Kateh told local broadcaster Super Bongese TV it was difficult to determine the number of victims because some had been reduced to ashes but he estimated that more than 40 people were killed in the incident.

“We have our team going from home to home to check on those that are missing,” he told AFP.

Police earlier put the death toll at 15 and said at least 30 people were injured as locals gathered at the scene.

“There were lots of people that got burned,” said Prince B. Mulbah, deputy inspector general for the Liberia National Police.

Another police officer, Malvin Sackor, said that after the crash, some locals had begun to take the leaking gas when the tanker exploded, killing some and wounding others.

He said that the police were still gathering the total number of injured and killed.

An eyewitness from Totota, Aaron Massaquoi, told AFP that “people climbed all on top of the truck taking the gas, while some of them had irons hitting the tanker for it to burst for them to get gas.”

“People were all around the truck and the driver of the truck told them that the gas that was spilling they could take that,” Massaquoi said.

“He told them not to climb on top of the tanker and that they should stop hitting the tanker…. but some people were even using screwdrivers to put holes on the tank.”
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/12/over-40-feared-dead-after-liberia-tanker-crash/

The House of Representatives Minority Caucus has condemned the killing of over 70 people in Gashish and Ropp districts of Barkin Ladi and Bokkos local government areas of Plateau State.

The Minority Leader, Kingsley Chinda, said the time has come to end the killings in the State.

He urged the military and other security agencies to be unrelenting in tackling the crisis until victory is assured.

In a statement he signed, he also called on the National Assembly security committees to commence a proper and detailed investigation into the persistent killings and proffer legislative solutions to end same.

The statement reads: “The invasion of five communities and the killings of over seventy persons by unknown gunmen in Gashish and Ropp Districts of Barkin Ladi and Bokkos local government areas of Plateau State on Christmas eve have raised national and global concerns about the security of persons in Nigeria, particularly the North Central region of Nigeria and murders that have gone for too long on the Plateau.

“These murders, which have become the cyclical outcomes of inter-communal violence in Plateau State, show how grievances between communities can be turned into organised violence by unidentified groups and persons who use violent methods to address perceived differences.

“When Jos was turned into an infernal theatre and a killing field in which one thousand people lost their lives in 2001, many thought that the violent expressions of differences had reached the Zenith; but unfortunately, more attacks followed in Jos, Wase, Langtang North, Langtang South, Shendam, Mikang, Qua’an Pan, Barkin Ladi, and Riyom, resulting in many deaths and the destruction of properties.

“What is more sinister is that warning of impending attacks are unheeded by security agencies, coupled with the apparent unwillingness of the political leadership to arrest perpetrators and nip the violence in Plateau State in the bud. If the accounts of witnesses are to be believed, what stands clear is the act of collusion and conspiracy in the bloodletting.

“The murders on the Plateau have gone on for too long and must be stopped now!

“We extend our condolences to the Government and People of Plateau State over the murders.

“While we appreciate the efforts and sacrifices of our Military and other Security Agencies thus far, we call on and encourage them to commit more and be unrelenting in tackling the crisis until victory is assured for all.

“We also urge NASS Security Committees to draw strength from sections 4, 88 and 89 of the 1999 Nigerian Constitution, as amended, to commence a proper and detailed investigation into the persistent murders and profer legislative solutions to end same.”
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/12/plateau-massacre-reps-minority-charges-nass-security-agencies-to-end-killings/

A Kano Chief Magistrates’ Court, on Wednesday, ordered the remand of a 24-year-old housewife, Hafsat Surajo, in a correctional centre for allegedly stabbing her househelp, Nafiu Hafizu, 38, to death.

The defendant, who lives at Unguwa Uku Quarters Kano, is standing trial on a two-count charge of attempt to commit suicide and culpable homicide.

Chief Magistrate Hadiza Abdulrahman ordered the remand of the defendant and adjourned the matter to February 1, 2024, for further mention.

Earlier, the Prosecution Counsel, Lamido Sorondinki, told the court that on December 20, the defendant used a sharp knife and attempted to commit suicide by killing herself and in the process cut herself on her left hand.

“In the process, the defendant used the said sharp knife and stabbed Nafiu on his chest and other parts of his body, which led to his death,” he said.

The defendant pleaded guilty to the first charge and pleaded not guilty to the second.

The offence contravened the provisions of Sections 281 and 221 of the Penal Code.

Meanwhile, Hafsat’s husband, Dayyabu Abdullahi, Adamu Muhammad and Nasidi Muhammad were arraigned before the Chief Magistrates’ Court for concealment of fact on the alleged murder of Nafiu.

The defendants were arraigned on a three-count charge bordering on criminal conspiracy, concealment of fact and false information.

Sorondinki alleged that on December 20, the defendants conspired with one Haruna Adamu, now at large, and concealed the cause of Nafiu’s death.

“The defendants misled and gave false information to the deceased family by saying he died as a result of pile surgery,” he said.

The defendants denied committing the offence.

According to the prosecutor, the offence contravened the provisions of Sections 97, 277 and 178 of the Penal Code.

“We have received a copy of the case diary from the police; we will study it and issue legal advice.

“My lord, we will furnish the defence counsel with all the facilities concerning the case,” he said.

The Defence Counsel, Rabiu Sidi and Rabiu Abdullahi, urged the court to grant the defendants bail, pursuant to sections 36(5) of the 1999 Nigeria Constitution as amended and sections 168 and 172 of ACJL 2019 Kano State.

“All we want is justice to be done to both parties,” they said.

The magistrate ordered that the defendants be remanded in a correctional centre and adjourned the matter to January 8, 2024, for mention.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/12/court-remands-woman-for-allegedly-stabbing-house-help-to-death/

Chelsea boss, Mauricio Pochettino has revealed that Noni Madueke was not on penalty duty during their 2-1 win over Crystal Palace on Wednesday night.

Michael Olise’s sublime volley had cancelled out Mykhailo Mudryk’s opener at Stamford Bridge.

With two minutes of regulation time left, the Blues were awarded a penalty kick following a VAR review.

Pochettino claims captain, Conor Gallagher was supposed to take it, but left it to Madueke, who coolly converted the winner.

On the decision for Noni Madueke to take the penalty in place of suspended duo Raheem Sterling and Cole Palmer, Pochettino said: “It was Conor and I said to him ‘it’s you but if you’re not confident enough give it Noni’.

“I am so glad and so happy. He came from the bench and showed this hunger and confidence.”
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/12/epl-madueke-wasnt-supposed-to-take-penalty-against-crystal-palace-pochettino/

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

1. Acting Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, was on Wednesday sworn in as the substantive governor of the state following the death of Governor Rotimi Akeredolu earlier in the day. Akeredolu, aged 67, passed away on Wednesday morning while undergoing treatment for prostate cancer in a German hospital.

2. The Federal Government, through the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, FCCPC, has fined British American Tobacco and its affiliate companies $110m. This is for alleged infringements of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act, National Tobacco Control Act, and sundry legal instruments, the FCCPC said on Wednesday in a statement.

3. Persistent insecurity, armed conflict, and deteriorating livelihoods will continue to affect local government areas in Borno, Kaduna, Katsina, Sokoto, Yobe, Zamfara states, and the far north of Adamawa State in Nigeria until May 2024, the World Bank has predicted. This is as it disclosed that poor macroeconomic conditions are restricting access to agricultural inputs in the country.

4. President Bola Tinubu, on Wednesday, December 27, reassured Nigerians that their country is in good hands under his watch. President Tinubu gave the assurance at the State House in Marina, Lagos State, on Wednesday, during a town-hall meeting with traditional rulers, chairpersons of Local Governments and Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) and other political-office holders in the state.

5. The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar lll, has condemned the gruesome killing of over 150 innocent people in Plateau State, saying bandits are always a step ahead of the authorities. He called on security agencies to be more proactive against the bandits and other criminals.

6. Vice President Kashim Shettima, the Speaker, House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas and the Deputy President of the Senate, Barau Jibrin, were among dignitaries who attended the funeral prayer and burial of the former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Ghali Umar Na’abba in Kano on Wednesday evening.

7. Ondo State Governor, Mr Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has declared three days of mourning in honour of his predecessor, Rotimi Akeredolu, who died on Wednesday. This was contained in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Ebenezer Adeniyan, on Wednesday.

8. The Bishop of the Diocese on the Niger, Rt. Rev. Owen Nwokolo on Wednesday, expressed shock over non-release of the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, saying his continued detention is unsettling the South-East region and Nigeria. According to the bishop, Mazi Kanu’s case can better be resolved politically, rather than through the courts.

9. Four yet-to-be-identified persons sustained varying degrees of injuries in a fire incident that occurred at Fat Noble filling station opposite Torikoh, Badagry area of Lagos State. It was learnt that the incident happened at about 1 am on Wednesday while some residents in the area were dispensing petrol in jerry cans and polythene bags.

10. A policeman attached to the Imo State Police Command, Cosmas Ugwu, has been shot dead by his girlfriend. Ugwu was shot dead on Tuesday by his 23-year-old lover, who was identified as Amanda Uchechi Ugo, a native of Ahiazu Mbaise Local Government Area of Imo State.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/12/10-things-you-need-to-know-thursday-morning-2/

Famous American singer, Kanye West’s name has been spotted on an Israeli missile which is apparently going to be used in the Middle East war.

A prominent Israeli mixed-martial artist, MMA, fighter, Haim Gozali is taking credit for the stunt.

Gozali, who was once affiliated with Bellator, shared the picture of the missile on his official social media handle.

DAILY POST reports that the MMA star has been very outspoken on the conflict between Israel and Hamas, oftentimes mocking the death of Palestinians over the past few months.

In November, Gozali had written the names of Muslim UFC fighters including Khabib Nurmagomedov and others who have expressed support for Palestine on a bomb that seemed to be on the frontlines.

However, sharing new photos of some of the missiles apparently in the possession of Israeli soldiers on his X account, Gozali wrote “@kanyewest you don’t like us Jewish. So we don’t like you either.”

The picture captured a shell with the inscription “Kanye West Flying to Gaza Haim Gozali.”

It’s unclear if Gozali is the one actually writing the names, or if someone else in the Israeli Defense Forces, IDF, does it on his behalf.

Meanwhile Kanye West or Ye, has finally tendered a public apology to the Jewish community over his anti-Semitic comments.

This is coming one year after the singer declared war on the Jewish community following his controversial Paris Fashion Week show, where he showcased his White Lives Matter shirts.

DAILY POST reports that Kanye had in October 2022 lost lucrative contracts with Adidas and Balenciaga led to losing his billionaire status.

He was also banned from X platform and Instagram after saying he was going to ‘go death on 3 on Jewish people’ in a tweet.

In a new development on his Instagram page on Tuesday, December 26 2023, the 46-year-old, however, posted a message written in Hebrew which translates to: ‘I sincerely apologise to the Jewish community for any unintended outburst caused by my words or actions.

‘It wasn’t my intention to hurt or demean, and I deeply regret any pain I may have caused. I’m committed to starting with myself and learning from this experience to ensure greater sensitivity and understanding in the future.

“Your forgiveness is important to me, and I’m committed to making amends and promoting unity.”

@kanyewest you don’t like us jewish. So we don’t like you too !!! pic.twitter.com/V0oF6mNBnq— Haim gozali (@GozaliHaim) December 24, 2023
https://www.otowngist.com/?p=185978

The Rivers Elders and Leaders Forum says it sees no peace in the “President’s Peace Proclamation” as regards the political crisis rocking Rivers State.

The statement by the forum follows a Christmas Day’s broadcast by Governor Siminalayi Fubara, where he pledged to fully implement the presidential peace agreement reached to resolve the ongoing political crisis in the state.

Governor Fubara reiterated in a statewide broadcast on Monday (Christmas Day) that no price is too high for peace to prevail in the state.

According to the governor, the peace deal, which has elicited mixed reactions from people across the country, is not a death sentence but a way towards lasting peace and stability in the state.

Reacting to the statement by Fubara, the Rivers Elders commended Governor Siminalayi Fubara for his comment, saying he expressed honesty and sincerity in accepting that the “President’s Peace Proclamation” has caused mixed reactions across the country.

Briefing journalists on Wednesday in Port Harcourt, former governor of Rivers State, Rufus Ada George, who read an open letter to the governor on behalf of the forum, noted that the peace accord signed at the presidential villa in Abuja “showed no sensitivity to the people’s security, political and social interests.”

The forum is of the opinion that the proclamation is a death sentence as it breaches all legal and constitutional rights sworn by the governor to uphold.

In the letter titled “Peace in Galilee,” the forum advised the governor to be guided by the constitution he swore to uphold in his quest to restore peace to the state.

According to the open letter by the elders, “The forum believes that there could be peace in Port Harcourt and indeed the entire Rivers State if only Your Excellency would be circumspect in your actions, measured in your engagements, and have a critical mind in your review of events.

“Therefore, Mr Governor, you have no constitutional or any other legal power to implement the ‘Presidential Peace Proclamation’.“

Responding to a question on whether the governor has ever responded to their previous comments on the issue in the state, George clarified that, “We are not acting for or on behalf of the governor. We are acting as individuals or group of residents and indigenes of Rivers State and we are acting in accordance with the law, the constitution.

“We don’t need to wait for advice or to listen to information or a piece of written messages. We act based on what we know and perceive to be factual. And we know that an agreement or proclamation was written which was not in the best interest of Rivers people and we are acting on that.

“The governor may be taking his actions unknown to us; we don’t know; we have not exchanged any direct correspondence in relation to this issue or proclamation. We are acting in the interest of the Rivers people.

George said the forum will act accordingly if the governor implements everything signed in the peace accord.

According to him, “We cannot predetermine what he will do or what will happen, but we believe that he will not take any action contrary to the law or contrary to the interests of the citizens of Rivers State.

On his part, Professor Edward Bristol Alagbarya, Head of the Legal Committee, Rivers Elders and Leadership Forum and Dean, Faculty of Law, University of Port Harcourt, said, “What the Elders Council is trying to do is to remind both parties in the dispute of the law that they swore to uphold, which is why one of the actions taken here is to ask the court to interpret the law.

“If he goes ahead to implement this against the court judgement, then that’s between him and the law.

Alagbarya clarified that the elders forum is not taking sides with any of the parties in the dispute, but are only calling the parties to order.

DAILY POST recalls that some members of the Rivers Elders and Leadership Forum have already filed a case at the Federal High Court in Abuja to declare the peace agreement brokered by the president between Governor Fubara and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, unconstitutional.

The case is led by a member of the Rivers State House of Assembly representing Bonny State Constituency, Victor Jumbo, Senator Bennett Birabi, Senator Andrew Uchendu, Rear Admiral O.P. Fingesi, Ann Kio Briggs, and Emmanuel Deinma.

They also, in the suit, asked the court to order the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, to conduct a fresh election to replace 27 lawmakers who defected from the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, to the All Progressives Congress, APC.

The political crisis in Rivers State is predicated on the sudden rift between Governor Fubara and Wike.

The actual reasons for the duo going their separate ways, barely six months after Fubara’s inauguration has been widely speculated.

The crisis has, however, affected the legislative arm of the state, leading to two factions – one loyal to the governor and the other loyal to the minister.

The president is said to have intervened in the political crisis in the state, leading to a purported peace deal signed on December 18 by both parties, a deal, which has been widely criticized by many, including the Chairman of the Pan-Niger Delta Forum, Pa Edwin Clark.

Many have also said the peace deal appeared to be more in favour of Wike.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/12/wike-vs-fubara-presidential-peace-proclamation-a-death-sentence-insensitve-rivers-elders/

The Zamfara State Government has again shut down 11 cattle markets in some parts of the state indefinitely.

The state Commissioner for Information, Munnir Haidara, said the closure of the markets was informed by security reports that bandits were using the markets to sell off their rustled cows.

The affected markets, according to Haidara, are Tsafe and Bilbis markets in the Tsafe Local Government Area; Jangebe market in the Talata-Mafara Local Government Area and Wuya market in the Anka LGA.

Others are Magamin Diddi market in the Maradun LGA; Galadi market in the Shinkafi LGA; Mada market in the Gusau LGA; and Sabon Birnin Danali in Birnin Magaji LGA.

The rest are Kokiya, Chigama and Nasarawar Godel markets all in Birnin Magaji LGA.

The commissioner said, “The state government finds it absolutely necessary to close down these markets due to security reports that the bandits are patronising these markets to sell off their rustled cows.”

He said that the state government had directed security agents to ensure compliance and arrest any person who violated the order.

“Security personnel have since been directed to arrest any person found in these affected markets,” he added.

Haidara called on the people of the state to abide by the order and cooperate with the state government in its efforts to rid the state of banditry.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/12/zamfara-shuts-11-markets-where-bandits-sell-stolen-cattle/

Men of the Rivers State Police Command, have raided a criminal hideout, arresting two kingpins, and recovered arms and ammunition after an attack at Odani junction in Elelenwo in Obio-Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State.

It was gathered that the command received a formal complaint from a victim who had been robbed of his valuables at Odani junction in Elelenwo by a group of armed men.

The complaint of an armed robbery attack at the junction according to a statement by the State Police Public Relations Officer, Grace Iringe Koko was in series from different people.

She said, that in response to this, the State Commissioner of Police, CP Tunji Disu, immediately tasked the Anti-Kidnapping Unit to flush out the armed robbers from the area.

The unit according to the statement carried out stop-and-search operations and placed the area under surveillance.

The Police spokesperson, said, the operations of the police team led to the arrest of one Azubuike Orji, 27, a native of Arochukwu in Abia State, who claimed to be a bus conductor.

She disclosed that the suspect, who was released from the Nigerian Correctional Service a few months ago, was arrested with a locally made pistol and has confessed to be working for the leader of the armed robbery syndicate, Anthony Augustine. He also revealed that his specialty in the gang was peddling drugs and servicing guns.

In a related investigation, the police tracked a reported stolen device to an auxiliary nurse who turned out to be the wife of the armed robbery gang leader. Further interrogations led to the discovery of a 7-room brothel located in Odani, Elelenwo, that served as a hideout for members of the syndicate.

“On December 10, 2023, the gang leader, Anthony Augustine, 22, was arrested at Green City Estate in Odani, Elelenwo, amidst widespread jubilation from residents as he and his gang had been a terror to the community. Items recovered from the suspect include an iPhone XX, suspected packs of marijuana, POS machines, and locally-made pistols.”

“The leader confessed to running the brothel as a guise for his underworld activities. Further investigation revealed that he was wanted for murder and robbery and had recently been released from a correctional center”

Investigations are still ongoing as the police seek to arrest other members of the syndicate.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Tunji Disu, celebrated the efforts of the men of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit and encouraged residents of Rivers State to promptly report crime as it happens to enable the police to apprehend criminals and nip crime in the bud. He also warned the public against buying used items, especially phones, regardless of how cheap they are, citing that such purchases can lead to more significant problems.

He further counseled young people to desist from seeking to make wealth using dishonest means as they will be at the mercy of the law when caught.

He reiterated that the Rivers State Police Command will not stop pushing to apprehend every suspect on the command’s wanted list and to rid the state of crime.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/12/police-burst-criminal-hideout-arrest-two-kingpins-in-rivers-state/

Former Speaker of the House of Representatives Ghali Umar Na’Abba is dead. He was aged 65.

A younger sister to the former speaker, Hussain Na’Abba who confirmed the death said the late politician passed on at about 3:00 am Wednesday at the National Hospital, Abuja.

The family member said the 8th speaker of Nigeria’s green chamber who be buried in Kano later in the day.

The rumoured death of the Kano-born politician went viral on social media in May 2020 during the era of the deadly COVID-19. But Na’Abba who was away in London refuted the rumour.

Ghali was the speaker of the House of Representatives during the tenure of President Olusegun Obasanjo and a member of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/12/former-house-of-reps-speaker-ghali-umar-naabba-is-dead/

The Ondo State Government has stated that the late Governor Rotimi Akeredolu died of protracted prostate cancer and not leukemia as it was earlier reported.

Multiple reports claimed that Akeredolu died of leukemia in Germany in the early hours of Wednesday.

However, the Ondo state Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Bamidele Ademola-Olateju in a statement stated that Akeredolu died of complications arising from protracted prostate cancer.

“Mr. Governor peacefully departed from this world in the early hours of today, Wednesday, December 27, 2023,” Ademola-Olateju stated.

“This tragedy has left behind a profound void in our hearts. Governor Akeredolu answered the eternal call while receiving medical treatment in Germany.

“He succumbed to complications arising from protracted prostate cancer.”

According to Ademola-Olateju, a letter has been sent to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to officially notify him of the sad incident.

The Commissioner also said that the deceased’s family and the Ondo State government will release further details regarding the funeral arrangements.

The 67-year-old Akeredolu returned to Nigeria in September after embarking on a three-month medical leave in Germany.

He handed over to his deputy Lucky Aiyedatiwa in December to proceed on another medical leave before his death.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/12/akeredolu-died-of-protracted-prostate-cancer-ondo-govt/

Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, has expressed optimism that the current socio-economic woes faced by Nigerians would be a thing of the past in a matter of months.

Speaking during the Christmas Mass, held at his ancestral home town at Lima Catholic Church, Ozuh, Omuma, in Oru East Local Council of the state, Uzodimma, noted that the reforms put in place by President Bola Tinubu’s administration would make citizens better tomorrow, urging Nigerians to be patient.

At the Mass, attended by his wife, Chioma, and other members of his family, as well as other government officials, the governor remarked that the season calls for show of love to each other, families, communities, local councils, states and the nation at large.

He pointed out that efforts being made to get the Port Harcourt refinery back on stream and the exchange rate showing signs of stability are veritable signs that “Nigerians will soon smile.”

The governor, therefore, urged support for Tinubu, who, he said, “is determined to deliver on his electoral promises and mandate.” Appealing for soul searching and improvement of successes, as well as jettisoning failure, he said: “It is a period of showing love to the family, and even to our wives and children. It is a season that should provoke a new attitude, and I think of collectively building our state and not destroying it.”
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/12/nigeria-will-recover-from-socio-economic-woes-soon-says-uzodimma/

Fire has razed down the house of the late chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party in Akwa Ibom State, Obong Udo Ekpenyong, in Ukanafun Local Government Area of the state.

The inferno which occurred on the eve of Christmas also claimed the lives of the late PDP chairman’s wife, Mrs Elizabeth Udo Ekpenyong and her sister, Ofonime Frank.

This was contained in a statement issued on Tuesday by the Secretary of the Transition Committee of the local government, Udeme Idiong.

Though the statement did not state the cause of the inferno, it added that the Transition Community chairman of the council, Godwin Ekpe declared seven days of mourning by all indigenes of the local government.

It also stated that the council chairman has sought the approval of the state government to withdraw all Ukanafun contingent in the ongoing Christmas Carol activity scheduled to hold on 28th December 2023

The statement read in parts, “Sequel to the tragic fire incident that occurred at the residence of our Late State Party Chairman, Obong Udo Ekpenyong on 24th December 2023 which claimed the lives of his wife, Mrs Elizabeth Udo Ekpenyong and her sister, Ms Ofonime Frank, the Chairman, Transition Committee, Ukanafun Local Government Area, Hon. (Elder) Godwin Ekpe JP has declared a 7 days mourning period for all indigenes of Ukanafun Local Government from Tuesday 26th of December, 2023 to Monday 1st January, 2024.

“He has also in collaboration with the Stakeholders of the Local Government and approval of the State Government approved a withdrawal of Ukanafun’s contingent and performance in the ongoing Christmas unplugged activity earlier scheduled to hold on the 28th of December, 2023.

“While sympathizing with the family of the deceased, we pray for the repose of the departed souls”.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/12/christmas-eve-tragedy-fire-razes-late-aibom-pdp-chairmans-house-kills-wife-sister-in-law/

A former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management, and Social Development, Sadiya Umar-Farouq, has denied knowing a contractor, James Okwete.

DAILY POST reported that Okwete was arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, for allegedly laundering N37bn.

Umar-Farouk made the rebuttal on Monday in a message posted on X, insisting she served the nation with every sense of responsibility.

The former Minister also made it clear she was ready to defend her actions whenever called upon to do so.

“There have been a number of reports linking me to a purported investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) into the activities of one James Okwete, someone completely unknown to me.

“James Okwete neither worked for, nor represented me in any way whatsoever. The linkages and associations to my person are spurious.

“While I resist the urge to engage in any media trial whatsoever, I have however contacted my Legal Team to explore possible options to seek redress on the malicious attack on my person.

“I remain proud to have served my country as a Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria with every sense of responsibility and would defend my actions, stewardship and programmes during my tenure whenever I am called upon to do so.”
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/12/n37bn-fraud-buharis-minister-umar-farouq-breaks-silence-over-okwetes-arrest/

Heartland FC have sent condolences to Sunshine Stars and the family of the club's late assistant kit manager, Taiwo Dosunmu who died on Friday in Benin as a result of the gunshot wounds from the December 7th armed bandits' attack along Benin/Ore Expressway.

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The Naze Millionaires in a condolence message from the General Manager, Promise Nwachukwu prayed for the repose of the soul of the late Dosunmu and also called on security agencies to expedite action on bringing those involved in the dastard act to book.

The Owena Whales were on their way to honour the Nigeria Premier Football League tie against Bendel Insurance in Benin when their bus was attacked by armed bandits with the ex-Assistant Kit Manager, Taiwo Dosunmu shot and other officials and players sustaining various injuries.

Nwachukwu told the club's media that he was saddened by the death of Dosunmu who they had been praying for to make a quick recovery and return to work and that the dead former Assistant Kit Manager would continue to be remembered for his act of bravery and the sacrifice he paid for his darling club.

"This is very unfortunate. We had prayed for him to have a quick recovery and after he stayed for some time, we thought the worst was over until the news of his death filtered in," Nwachukwu said.

"We will continue to remember him for his gallantry and bravery that safeguarded the lives of other players and officials.

"We are imploring the Nigerian Police and other security agencies to work harder to fish out those involved in the dastard act to stop as a deterrent for others in the future. We pray that we never witness this type of situation again."
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/12/heartland-fc-condole-with-sunshine-stars-over-assistant-kit-managers-death/

A group under the auspices of Owerri Zone Awareness Coalition (OZAC) has urged Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma to conduct election into the 27 local governments next year.It said it gave the advice in view of the fact that the third tier of government in the state had been run by caretaker committees headed by 27 sole administrators since the administration in January 15, 2020.

The system was put in place on assumption of Chief Emeka Ihedioha as the governor, who took over from Rochas Okorocha on May 29, 2019.

Ihedioha, on assumption of office, dissolved the elected local government officials in an election conducted by the Okorocha administration, putting in place caretaker administrators.

Read Also: Christmas: Uzodimma urges renewal of love for state, nation, humanity

After the Supreme Court nullified the election of Ihedioha, enthroning Uzodimma, the latter sacked the caretaker committee members appointed by Ihedioha and replaced them with his appointees.

Uzodimma had promised to hold council election about three times this year, even before the last governorship off-season election in the state, but none has taken place.

In a statement signed by the Chairman of OZAC, Emmanuel Okwu, the body regretted that the local council system in Imo had been under the appointive system for several years, as no election took place at the grassroots level.

It lamented that it was causing lack of rural development.

The group noted that ushering in democratically elected persons at the councils would bring “democracy dividend to the citizens” and bring them closer to the government at that level.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/12/uzodimma-told-to-conduct-local-government-election/

As human rights activists and organisations intensify efforts to abolish Osu, Ohu, Ume and Diala caste systems in the South East, two other Imo State communities, Amurie Omanze and Oboro Amurie, in Isu Local Council of the state, have set January 4, 2024, to abolish these caste systems.

A statement by the Executive Director of Pillars of Hope Africa Initiative (POHAI), Chinyere Oge-Kalu, said that the abolishment of these caste systems in the two communities was a fruit of years of advocacy by the National Human Rights Commission, POHAI, G’naira Family Foundation (GFF) and Kemdi Chino Opera Foundation (KCOF).

She expressed confidence that more communities, the entire Imo State and Igbo land will soon abolish these reprehensible caste systems, which dehumanises fellow compatriots as slaves/outcastes.

Oge-Kalu commended the traditional rulers and the people of Amurie Ancient Kingdom, comprising Amurie Omanze and Oboro Amurie for setting the pace in abolishing these caste systems in Igbo land.

The Eze Udo II of Amurie Omanze, Eze C.O Nnajiemere and Duruoha 1 of Oboro Amurie, Eze V.O Ahamefule Durugwoegebu iv, while addressing their subjects in the palace of Eze Udo II, said January 4, 2024 had been slated for abolishing Osu, ume, Ohu and diala caste systems in old Amurie Omanze ancient community.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/12/imo-communities-set-january-to-abolish-osu-others/

The Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, has disclosed that the death toll in the Christmas Eve attacks in the state has risen to over 115.

Mutfwang spoke on Tuesday while featuring on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily.

He stated that the attacks were unprovoked, while tasking the security agents to unravel the sponsors of the “carnage” and their blood-thirsty foot-soldiers.

DAILY POST reported the blood-curling simultaneous attacks by assailants on over 15 communities in the Bokkos and Barkin-Ladi Local Government Areas of the state on Christmas eve.

The terrorists set several houses ablaze on Sunday night and also looted farm produce and destroyed properties as they butchered the residents.

“Just when we had finished preparations for Christmas, unprovoked attacks were unleashed on our communities.

“As I am talking to you, in Mangu Local Government alone, we buried 15 people. As at this morning, in Bokkos, we are counting over 100 corpses. Not to talk of that of Barkin-Ladi,” a sombre-faced Mutfwang narrated.

The governor, who described the attacks as “unprecedented and monumental”, noted that though the assailants intended to break the spirit of the people and pull down the two local governments, they remained unfazed.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/12/death-toll-hits-over-115-in-plateau-massacre/

Former Big Brother Naija reality show winner, Josephine Otabor, popularly known as Phyna, has revealed her new year resolution.She said she would yank off “everyone and everything in my current cycle” in 2024.

According to the controversial reality star, she would love and own more dogs and cats than humans next year.

On her X (formerly Twitter) handle, Phyna wrote: “2024: A fresh start, I’m dropping everyone and everything in my current cycle.

“No big deal. I’m just done. My mouth cannot say what my eyes has seen

“2024, I will love and own more dogs and cats than humans! Have a great new year.”
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/12/phynas-2024-resolution-includes-love-dogs-cats-less-human/

Mauricio Pochettino admits his Chelsea team need to be more clinical after Wolves condemned them to an an eighth Premier League defeat of a tepid campaign.

Second-half goals from Mario Lemina and Matt Doherty secured victory for the hosts, who recorded successive league wins against Chelsea for the first time in nearly half a century.

Substitute Christopher Nkunku headed home in injury time on his Premier League debut but it was not enough to salvage a point for the Blues, who lost a fourth consecutive away league game for the first time since December 2000.

This was another day when Chelsea's failings in attack came back to haunt them. They have now have failed to convert 36 big chances in the league this season - the most of any team.

Pochettino said: "We feel very disappointed because I think we deserve much more. This competition wounds you when you are not clinical enough.

"We created chances, that is why it is so disappointing. We conceded after a few corners and it was really difficult.

"We have players playing for the first time in the league, they need to adapt. It is confidence and about quality. We need to score if we want to win the games."

Nicolas Jackson's contribution was so underwhelming his exit 10 minutes from time was cheered by the Chelsea fans.

The result leaves the club 10th, seven points off qualification for the Europa Conference League, which, even at this stage, looks the best the Londoners can hope for.

No side has lost more Premier League matches in 2023 than Chelsea (19), while only Almeria (24), Werder Bremen (20) and Empoli (20) have lost more games than the Blues across the big five European leagues this calendar year.

Wolves are now level on points with Pochettino's men after a battling display, although the victory came at a price as experienced defender Craig Dawson limped off during the second half with
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/12/wolves-condemn-chelsea-to-another-loss/

Suzanne Emma, the estranged wife of Nollywood actor Emeka Ike, has responded to her ex-husband’s recent claims that her allegations of domestic violence against him were false and led to significant losses on his part.

In a recent interview with media personality Chude Jideonwo, Emma maintained that Ike had subjected her to abuse throughout their 17-year marriage. She recounted a specific incident at the hospital when their child was seriously ill, describing how Ike verbally berated her and physically assaulted her.

“There was a time we went to the hospital; my child was sick. We didn’t have money. And I was trying to negotiate with the hospital to treat the child, and we would pay later. It was taking a little bit of time, and he just came in and started yelling at me, ‘You’re a fool. You don’t know how to do things. What’s all this? You can’t even talk to them. Who are they? They’re beneath you, and you’re allowing them to do this and all that.’

“And I got upset and said, ‘Sir, why are you being a jerk?’ And I went off into the car to sit down. Immediately he was coming into the car; his punch was the first thing that I was seeing on my jaw.”

Lagos Island Customary Court dissolved the marriage between Emeka Ike and his wife in 2017 due to incessant battery. Emma had approached the court on July 13, 2015, seeking to dissolve the 14-year-old marriage with the Nollywood actor.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/12/emeka-ike-punched-me-when-our-child-was-sick-ex-wife-suzanne-emma-speaks-up/

Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, SGF, Boss Mustapha, has denied a report alleging his involvement in the illegal withdrawal of $6.3 million from the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, during the administration of ex-President Muhammadu Buhari.

According to reports, a special investigator appointed by President Bola Tinubu uncovered the alleged theft, which supposedly occurred on February 8, 2023 — weeks before the presidential election.

The report also alleged that Mustapha, alongside the embattled former CBN Governor Godwin Emefiele, ordered the removal of the cash under the guise of funding foreign election observer missions.

The investigator’s report claimed CCTV footage captured how the money was moved out of the CBN.

However, Mustapha, in a statement he signed and made available to newsmen on Saturday, emphatically refuted the accusations, calling them “outrageous and unsubstantiated”.

He described the allegation as a “malicious fabrication” and an “orchestrated” attempt to assassinate his character and besmirch my reputation.

The ex-SGF added that he lacked knowledge of the purported “Presidential Directive” cited in the report as justification for the withdrawal.

He noted that he was never involved in discussions or transactions related to any payments for foreign election observers.

Mustapha quizzed the timing of the allegation, pointing to its publication during the “sensitive pre-Christmas period” as an indication that it was a deliberate attempt to exploit public sentiment and sow seeds of doubt.

The former SGF called for a thorough and transparent investigation into the matter, urging the authorities to “probe the source of the fabricated documents” and expose those behind the “smear” campaign.”

He equally appealed to the public and the media to exercise critical thinking and not succumb to misinformation.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/12/ex-sgf-boss-mustapha-denies-looting-6-3m-from-cbn-vault/

he Director, Media and Public Affairs of the Nigerian Governor’s Forum, NGF, Abdulrazaque Bello-Barkindo, has written the NGF chairman and Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRasaq, alleging corruption and lack of transparency in the management of the organization.

The leaked letter also exposed a crack within the NGF Secretariat in Abuja, as top officials are at daggers drawn over alleged financial fraud and recklessness.

Barkindo opened a can of worms on the running of the secretariat, saying the NGF is now more transactional than developmental.

He stressed that it is not an agent of change but “a conduit pipe for a few individuals”, and demanded a forensic audit of all the NGF accounts including those that were opened during crises periods to avoid the “prying eyes of governors in the name of NIGOFO among others”.

Barkindo said the NGF accounts had not been audited for 10 years or more, stressing that a few individuals had turned the Forum and its finances into their personal fiefdom.

Parts of the letter read, “The secretariat’s accounts have not been audited in the last decade to say the least, that even the phony auditors invited to mock the auditing process have at various times confessed that the job they are doing for the secretariat is a wash.

“Has anyone ever wondered why an institution that midwife’s huge monetary deals like the Paris-London refunds does not have a qualified accountant? In an organisation that makes over three billion Naira annually, the total annual income of its entire staff is seventy million naira. Staff of the Forum are always asking where all the money goes. There is a staff that earns N20,000 a month ($20.)

“There are instances. The N630m deductions from the N5bn infrastructure support fund which ended in a shouting bout among governors while you are chairman was a deliberate ploy to make you look bad among your colleagues.

“The secretariat did not brief you adequately. Their instructions from their master’s house, across the street, was to set booby traps and obstacles in your path. I am a witness. On the Paris-London Club transaction which the NGF midwifed, the NGF made close to N19bn out of which the staff of the NGF were to be rewarded with N850m by the Chairman of the Forum, at the time Governor Abdulaziz Yari Abubakar of Zamfara State.

“In my opinion, the NGF requires a forensic audit of all its accounts including those that were opened during crises periods to avoid the prying eyes of governors in the name of NIGOFO among others.”
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/12/director-alleges-fraud-in-running-of-nigerian-governors-forum-demands-forensic-audit/

British billionaire Sir Jim Ratcliffe has agreed to buy a 25% stake in Manchester United for about $1.3bn (£1.03bn).

Ratcliffe's Ineos Group will take control of football operations.

The 71-year-old will also provide $300m (£236m) for future investment into the club's Old Trafford stadium.

The announcement comes 13 months after the club's owners, the Glazer family, stated they were considering selling to "explore strategic alternatives".

The American family bought the club for £790m in 2005.

The only other publicly declared bidder, Qatari banker Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al Thani, withdrew his offer to buy 100% of the club in October.

United have struggled on the pitch this season and have not won the Premier League since 2013, while there have been regular protests against the Glazer ownership.

Manchester-born Ratcliffe is chairman of petrochemicals company Ineos and says he is a "lifelong supporter of the club". He tried and failed to buy Chelsea last year..

In a statement, he said: "Whilst the commercial success of the club has ensured there have always been available funds to win trophies at the highest level, this potential has not been fully unlocked in recent times.

"We will bring the global knowledge, expertise and talent from the wider Ineos Sport group to help drive further improvement at the club, while also providing funds intended to enable future investment into Old Trafford.

"We are here for the long term and recognise that a lot of challenges and hard work lie ahead, which we will approach with rigour, professionalism and passion. We are committed to working with everyone at the club - the board, staff, players and fans - to help drive the club forward.

"Our shared ambition is clear: we all want to see Manchester United back where we belong, at the very top of English, European and world football."

The club say the deal is "subject to customary regulatory approvals" but are "hopeful it will be completed as soon as possible".

There is initially going to be a six-to-eight week process for the deal to be ratified, which includes being signed off by the Premier League.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/12/sir-jim-ratcliffe-agrees-deal-to-buy-25-stake-in-manchester-united/

Lagos State government on Saturday, came to the rescue of several residents of the state especially in the Lekki phase 1 axis who are suffering untold hardship of inaccessibility by removing permanently closed inner roads/gates.

This is contained in a statement signed by Kunle Adeshina, Director, Public Affairs of the Ministry of Environment and Water Resources in Lagos.

Adeshina said that the enforcement operation, which was authorized by Mr Governor, followed several days of traffic snarl which residents connecting Lekki were experiencing due to inaccessibility of connecting roads.

He said that Roads and Streets already enforced since the operation started included Sir Rufus Foluso Giwa, Theopilus Oji, Osaro Isokpan, Abike Sulaiman, Ben Okagbue MBA, Olubunmi Rotimi, Olanrewaju Ninalowo, Dele Adedeji, Abayomi Sonuga, Siji Soetan and Rasheed Alaba Williams.

He said that the government decided to commence the Enforcement following the indiscriminate mounting & multiplicity of the gates in many parts of the state, defacing the aesthetics of the environment.

He said that the Commissioner, Tokunbo Wahab, while speaking on the development, said the state government would restore the aesthetics being defaced by the indiscriminate gates by removing them across the state.

Wahab urged all residents associations that have such gates in their estates or communities and always putting them under permanent lock and keys to remove them voluntarily.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/12/lagos-begins-removal-of-inner-gates-in-lekki-phase-i/

The World Health Organisation, WHO, has raised alarm on the spike in dengue infections recorded in 2023 globally, which represents a potentially high public health threat.

The UN health agency raised the alarm on Friday as it reported more than five million dengue infections and 5,000 deaths from the disease globally in 2023.

Interfacing with newsmen at the UN headquarters in Geneva, Dr. Diana Rojas Alvarez, WHO Team Lead on Arboviruses, stated that the threat required maximal attention.

According to him, the threat also required response from all levels of the UN health agency to support countries in curtailing current dengue outbreaks and prepare for the upcoming dengue season.

Dengue is the most common viral infection transmitted to humans bitten by infected mosquitoes.

It is mostly found in urban areas within tropical and sub-tropical climates.

The increase in the number of reported cases of dengue in more countries is explained by the fact that infected mosquitoes now thrive in more countries because of global warming associated with rising emissions.

“Climate change has an impact on dengue transmission because it increases rainfall, humidity and temperature.

“These mosquitoes are very sensitive to temperature,” she said.
https://www.otowngist.com/?p=185809

The expected coronation of new Eze Aro of Arochukwu Kingdom on December 26, 2023, has been put on hold.

DAILY POST had reported that there were claims against the emergence of the new Eze Aro, His Royal Majesty, Engr Eberechukwu Oji, that his father is still alive, hence he cannot be crowned.

But the controversies were later put to rest, leading to the announcement of the coronation date.

However, emerging reports showed that the State Government has asked that the event be put on hold to enable for more investigations.

This was confirmed to our correspondent by Oji, the Eze Aro.

He said, “the coronation, initially billed to take place on December 26th, 2023 at the Arochukwu Civic Centre will no longer hold on the said date, as Abia State Government has requested for a postponement, to enable it conclude investigations into issues that emanated as a result of the emergence of Eze Aro, HRM Engr Eberechukwu Oji.

“I am asking our guests, well wishers and friends of the kingdom to be on standby for further information on the development.”
https://www.otowngist.com/?p=185808

The Africa Cup of Slam Poetry (CASP) is a Panafricanist event that brings together artistic talent across Africa and globally. The contest fosters a unification in the celebration of words and synergy amongst slam poets.

Nigerian representative, Deborah Johnson who had such a good time, speaks to Deborah Uzoma, a journalist who documents campus stories, creative events, and lifestyle chronicles.

Hello, Deborah, congratulations on emerging as the second winner (First runner-up)  in the African Cup of Slam Poetry.   How did you feel when the result was announced?

I felt okay, I’d slammed in English against French countries and I was glad to have been in the top 3.

Did you have a specific theme or message that you focused on during your performance in the competition?

I spoke about things that mattered to all Africans.I spoke about our relationships with each other as Africans

Please,  can you briefly give us a rundown of your slam poetry performance and what it means to you?

It was special because I felt like I was starting something for Nigerians  in the sense that none of us had traveled to represent Nigeria at a poetry slam like the CASP or the WPSO and now someone can start training from now because they want to.

That is interesting. As an award winner in Slam poetry,  are there persons whom you look up to in the world of poetry and performance?

Yes, too many to mention

What's your take on slam poetry having a significant impact in shaping your community and the wider world?

I think to an extent it gives people hope, pushes them out of their comfort zones even and it is such a good tool for advocacy.

Deborah, it has been a very nice time interacting with you. It feels so good to 

know that you are my namesake.Kindly, drop a piece of advice for aspiring slam poets and performers.

Just be honest, with yourself and your art and your God.

Good luck in your future endeavors.

Thank you
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/12/poetry-gives-hope-deborah-johnson-nigerian-representative-at-the-2023-african-cup-of-slam-poetry/

The Supreme Court's decision not to rule quickly on whether Donald Trump can be prosecuted on election-subversion charges may help delay his trial, according to ex-prosecutors.

But they told the BBC this strategy of filing repeated challenges will only put off the inevitable and could even backfire on the former president in terms of timing for his White House campaign next year.

On Friday the justices declined to rule on whether Mr Trump has immunity from prosecution in the case, turning down special counsel Jack Smith's request to take up the matter in an expedited manner.

The Supreme Court offered no explanation, saying only that Mr Smith's petition "was denied".

The special counsel's office has not yet commented on the decision, which is seen as a major setback to his case against Mr Trump.

It is unclear, however, how long the trial might be delayed, or whether it might be pushed back beyond the 2024 election.

Mr Trump is currently the Republican frontrunner for a rematch against President Joe Biden next November.

The special counsel indicted the ex-president in August for allegedly conspiring to overturn the results of the last election in the lead-up to the US Capitol riot on 6 January 2021.

Friday's ruling means that the US Court of Appeals for the DC Circuit will have to hear the case first. But eventually, it is likely the Supreme Court will have to make a ruling anyway.

Mr Smith had argued that the appeals process could delay the start of the trial, which is due to begin on 4 March.

For now, the judge in the case, Tanya Chutkan, has paused proceedings while Mr Trump's legal team appeals. He has repeatedly argued he has immunity from prosecution because he was acting in an official capacity at the time of the riot.

Gene Rossi, a former federal prosecutor with decades of experience at the US justice department, told the BBC the decision is a "huge setback for Jack Smith on the scheduling front".

"However, his request for expedited review was a noble attempt to move this trial along," he added. "Mr Trump, whose immunity appeal is not strong, will not face the 6 January music for multiple months."

Mr Rossi added that Judge Chutkan "does not care one iota that he is a presidential candidate" and, despite the appeals process, will still want her trial to move "with utmost alacrity".

The trial, he added, may ultimately end up being pushed back to late July or early August - which would fall shortly after the Republican National Convention, beginning on 15 July.

"Simply put, that would be a scheduling hot mess," he said. "The worst thing would be to have a jury considering whether he's basically an insurrectionist at that time. That's not good for your campaign… he's delaying the inevitable."

Another former federal prosecutor, Case Western Reserve University Professor Kevin McMunigal, said that the Supreme Court's decision "is not surprising", given that a "typical pattern" in a legal case would be for an appeals court to decide on a matter before it is brought to the high court.

"But I'm not sure that this will necessarily delay the trial," he added.

Gregory Wallance, a former federal prosecutor who helped convict seven lawmakers for bribery as part of an FBI sting in the late 1970s, told the BBC: "It's a win for Trump.

"But how big a win depends on whether his appeal of the immunity ruling delays his January 6 trial until past the election, which right now is unpredictable."

A fast-tracked process would not have been without precedent.

Carl Tobias, a law professor at the University of Richmond in Virginia, told the BBC that the Supreme Court expedited 19 cases in the last four years.

In 1974 the justices fast-tracked the case of US v Nixon, which led to the release of the Watergate tapes, dealing a fatal blow to the presidency of Richard Nixon.

"Trump's delay strategy appears to be working," Mr Tobias said.

"All of will consume time, and, thus, complicate efforts to start the trial before Judge Chutkan on the early March date."

Arguments are set to be heard in the case in DC Circuit Court on 9 January.

It is one of two election-subversion indictments against Mr Trump. He also faces two other criminal cases, one over classified papers and another to do with hush money.
https://www.otowngist.com/?p=185815

People have shown many strange gifts, but being able to tame honey bees is what Tamirat Getachew is known for in his hometown of Asosa, in Ethiopia.

Tamirat Getachew told BBC it is a gift and everyone is still wondering how he does.

The 18-year-old allows the insects to swarm his bare chest and head without wearing any kind of protection. Sometimes he'll even let the bees enter his mouth.

"I have a special ability to put bees on myself without covering my lips and ears," he explains.

It was only five years ago that Mr Tamirat was first introduced to bees.

"They came and settled on my body as I passed by and they started paying attention to what I was saying," he says.

According to him, he did nothing to draw them in. ''They just understand who I am. Bees are like humans to those who approach them."

However, his relatives and neighbours were initially concerned. ''They were frightened. They warned me not to go near bees as they can be dangerous. However, I was aware of my gift at the time," Mr Tamirat says.

They eventually discovered he has a special bond with the honey bee.

His actions are highly unusual in the neighbourhood. Bee farmers typically harvest honey at night in order to prevent bee stings, particularly in rural parts of Ethiopia.

Studies have shown that bee stings can be lethal.
https://www.otowngist.com/?p=185812

President Bola Tinubu has been urged to release the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, Nnamdi Kanu as a payback.

Kanu’s Special Counsel, Aloy Ejimakor said Tinubu should release the IPOB leader as payback for Odumegu Ojukwu’s release of Obafemi Awolowo in the 1960s.

In 1965, Awolowo was convicted of treason and he was imprisoned in Calabar prison.

But, the late Biafra warlord was released from prison on August 3rd, 1966.

Ejimakor posted on X: “When Awolowo was convicted of treason in 1965, Okpara ensured that he was imprisoned in the East to protect him from his enemies in the West & North.

“Once Ojukwu came to power, he promptly released Awolowo to please the Yorubas. It’s pay back time. @officialABAT should #FreeMNK.”

The constitutional lawyer also noted that the over-deployment of Army in the Southeast won’t be necessary if Kanu is released.

“The rising over-deployment of the Army in Southeast in contrast with the greater insecurity in the North underscores the high-handedness with which Nigeria treats Ndigbo.

“Buhari took it to a new high & Tinubu appears to have sustained it. It won’t be necessary if you #FreeMNK,” he added.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/12/free-nnamdi-kanu-as-payback-for-ojukwus-release-of-awolowo-ipob-lawyer/

Julian Alvarez scored twice as Manchester City won the Fifa Club World Cup for the first time by beating Brazilians Fluminense in Saudi Arabia.

Pep Guardiola's side, taking part in the tournament after winning last season's Champions League, made the ideal start as Alvarez struck after 40 seconds, chesting in from close range after Nathan Ake's long-range strike hit the post.

They added a second in the 27th minute when Nino turned Phil Foden's cross into the back of his own net.

England's Foden then got on the scoresheet himself in the second half when he darted through the middle to prod in Alvarez's cross, before the Argentine forward got his second in the 88th minute with a clinical strike into the far corner.

Success meant City emulated Manchester United, Liverpool and Chelsea in lifting the Club World Cup, but became the first English side to win five trophies in a calendar year.

The Treble of Premier League, FA Cup and Champions League last season was followed by the Uefa Super Cup in August.

"It was an incredible year," said Guardiola. "Today we closed the chapter. We won everything we could. Now time to try again."

But some of the shine was taken off their victory by the sight of Rodri - so influential for the side - going off injured towards the end of the second half.

Meanwhile, Egyptian side Al Ahly claimed third place with a 4-2 win against Urawa Red Diamonds of Japan.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/12/manchester-city-beat-fluminense-to-win-fifa-club-world-cup/

Nigerians were shocked to the marrow over the news that no fewer than 9,000 civil servants who sat the 2022 Federal Civil Service Commission’s promotion examinations failed.

According to the report, the list of the workers’ performance was obtained from the Federal Civil Service Commission.

DAILY POST gathered that out of about 13,000 civil servants that sat for the examination, which was held in about 69 Computer Based Test Centres across the country, over 9000 failed, leaving the number of the successful candidates in the neighbourhood of 4000.

The candidates, the report said, were drawn from the core civil service, including the Nigeria Police, other paramilitary and specialised agencies.

The report also said that the letter containing the list of the successful civil servants was dated November 30, 2023, and sent from the Federal Civil Service Commission.

The letter, tagged: ‘FC.6241/S.35/Vol.xi/ T12/268,’ was signed by the Director of Promotions, Sani Bello, and addressed to the Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation.

A cursory look at the list showed that only 3,851 civil servants, out of over 13,000 civil servants who sat for the promotion examination passed, while the rest failed.

Since the report filtered into the public domain, Nigerians have been reacting, with many saying that the major problem which the country faces today is the issue of unqualified and dumb civil servants.

Those who hold this line of thought have strongly argued that the civil service of any nation is the administrative engine that keeps such a country’s government running.

Leading this argument is a mechanical engineer, Livinus Eze, who lamented that recruitment into the civil service in Nigeria is no longer based on merit, but rather on one’s ‘connection.’

He told DAILY POST: “I remember in those days, when civil servants were held in high esteem because they were believed to be highly cerebral.

“Those days, when you hear that somebody is a permanent secretary, you would know that such a person is an embodiment of experience, competence and intelligence.

“But, what do we have today? We have a bunch of mediocre people, parading themselves as civil servants.”

How did the country descend into such low ebb?

He said: “The problem started with the introduction of a quota system in the recruitment process. The quota system made it possible that those who were not qualified got jobs in the civil service because of where they came from.

“For me, there is nothing wrong in quota system because it will ensure that one section of the country does not dominate other section, but where a section of the country or a state fails to provide qualified persons for particular vacancies, the proper thing to do is to fill the vacancy with competent and qualified people from outside such area.

“But, in Nigeria, so long as you are from a state or region that must fill certain vacancies, whether you are competent and qualified or not, you will be given the job. And that is the bane of our civil service.

“How can you explain what has happened; that out of 13,000 civil servants, who sat for ordinary promotion exams, which I am sure were based on their job specifications, not up to 4000 passed? And over 9000 failed?

“So, what are they doing receiving fat salaries at the end of every month? No nation can make progress this way; it is quite unfortunate,” he stated.

There are others who insist that the result of the promotion exam has only shown the level of rot in the country’s civil service.

One of those pushing this line of argument is Chidiebere Eze, a business administrator.

He argued that the corruption that is almost destroying every fabric of the country took its roots from the civil service.

“You don’t need to search far to know why Nigeria is classified as the global poverty capital. When you have people who don’t know anything but only to go to work and receive salaries at the end of the month, how can such a country be productive?

“Poverty will inevitably be the lot of such a nation. Everything our politicians know about corruption was learnt from the civil service.

“They were the ones that introduced the famous ‘five percent’ of the 1960s that brought about the first military coup in Nigeria.

“The rot in the civil service is just too much and needs an urgent intervention. And it is good that this kind of exam was conducted and its result made public so that Nigerians can see where their problems are coming from and know what to do to tackle it headlong,” he told DAILY POST.

Also commenting, the Chairman of the Middle Belt Forum, MBF, Dr. Pogu Bitrus, said the import of the massive failure is that the civil service is lacking competence.

While speaking to DAILY POST, he stressed that its implication was low productivity as no man can give what he does not have.

“The implication is that unqualified people are occupying positions in the civil service, meaning that productivity will be very low. Memos will not be up to the standards they ought to be. And of course, performance in the civil service will be declining.

“But that is not a new thing because the unnecessary bureaucracy, which the civil service shows clearly is a function of this kind of performance.

“When incompetent people are occupying positions, of course, their performance will be below standard, and rather than doing things correctly, unnecessary bureaucracy comes in and the whole system suffers as a result,” he said.

On the way forward, he stressed the urgent need for training and retraining of the civil servants.

He said: “We cannot say that people should be sacked, but we are saying that there is the need for training and retraining.

“It is not enough to have a degree, diploma or some certificates, people have to be trained and trained to be able to live up to their potential within the civil service.

“So, there is a need to overhaul the civil service. There is need for retraining of the civil servants and there is need for reorientation in the civil service, so that they will know the exact thing to do as civil servants.

“Then, of course, the world is going digital; we are no longer analogue. Some of the civil servants are still analogue.

“There is a need for training and retraining to bring the civil servants up to the standard of modern civil service, so that their performance can be better.”

On the argument that such a poor performance cannot be dissociated from the recruitment process anchored heavily on quota and federal character principle, he admitted that “the recruitment process has a big problem; it is faulty and that is as a result of quota system and federal character principle.

“People are recruited based on where they come from, the language they speak and the religion they profess, rather than their competence.

“Of course, it has a direct bearing on the quality of their output because competence and performance are together; when you are competent, you perform better.

“We are not saying that the quota system should be abolished because there are some disadvantaged communities, but what we are saying is that we should not sacrifice competence on the altar of quota system or federal character principle.”

On his part, the president of the Arewa Youth Consultative Forum, AYCF, Alhaji Yerima Shettima, commended the Commission for conducting the promotion exam as a way of assessing the capacity of the civil servants.

He, however, decried the outcome, which he said was disappointing and an indication that most of them were not even qualified to have been employed.

He said: “First, it is good that the Federal Civil Service Commission conducted the promotion exam, at least to assess the capacity of the civil servants they wanted to promote.

“However, what the outcome of the exam implies is that most of the civil servants were not even qualified to have been employed in the first place; but because we have a system that encourages corruption, so many of them found themselves there.

“That is why the civil servants are even more corrupt than the politicians, and you don’t see them being productive like their counterparts in other parts of the world.

“It is unfortunate that most of them were not qualified from the outset, but they still found their way there.

“So, what we must do in this circumstance is that we must encourage competence and promote it above the man-know-man approach or what some may like to call ‘connection’ in the recruitment process.

“There is nothing bad in organising a promotion exam for them. Generally, the result is a clear indication that the government must look inward to find people who are competent and productive enough to deliver.

“What this also means is that over time, we never realised that the crop of the civil servants are this dumb but at the end of the day, we have seen what the civil service is made of.

“So, I encourage the government to do more by looking at people based on their competence and bringing them on board to get better results.”

However, a Niger Delta activist, Seigha Manager has a different view about the development.

He said the fact that over 9000 did not pass the promotion exam does not mean they are incompetent and unqualified.

He noted that those who were assumed to have passed and got promoted were those who scored the highest marks to fill the vacant position.

In other words, he explained that there are those who could have scored even above the threshold of the pass mark but could not be promoted because the vacant positions were not enough to accommodate all of them.

He illustrated what he meant with his experience when he was in the service, saying, “For example, when we were writing for our directorship position, nine people wrote the exam and there were only two vacancies.

“Ordinarily, the pass mark would have been 49 percent, but because we were nine and only two people were needed for the two vacancies, the stake was raised.

“The person with the highest mark scored 72 percent. I was the second person with 62 percent. So, it was just the two of us that were promoted to fill the two vacancies.

“There was somebody who scored 61 percent and about three other persons that scored above 55 percent but they could not be promoted because there were only two vacancies.

“I think there were only two people that scored below the pass mark of 49 percent. But, you find out that only two of us passed and got promoted because there were only two vacancies.

“So, invariably, since only two people were promoted, it appeared as if seven others failed, but in actual sense, only two people failed. The other five people could not be promoted because the vacancies were meant for two people that scored the highest marks.

“The pass mark was 49 percent and they scored above that, but they could not be promoted because only two vacancies existed. So, it is the same thing that could have happened in this current case of over 9000 civil servants believed to have failed the recent promotion.

“Not all of them could have failed but because the vacancies that existed were limited, even though they exceeded the pass mark, they could not be promoted.”

“That is exactly what I think could have happened, but that is not to say that every person is intelligent or that nobody failed.

“There were people who could have failed but the majority passed, just that they couldn’t be promoted because the spaces were not enough to accommodate all of them,” he told DAILY POST.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/12/reactions-as-9000-federal-civil-servants-fail-promotion-exams/