Flowerbud News

Year: 2026

  • Akande Champions Ibadan Heritage Project, Flags Off Hall of Fame Initiative

    Akande Champions Ibadan Heritage Project, Flags Off Hall of Fame Initiative

    ‎Akande Champions Ibadan Heritage Project, Flags Off Hall of Fame Initiative
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    ‎By Adewale Owoade.
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    ‎A governorship aspirant on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State, Dr. Debo Akande, has unveiled a plan to establish an Ibadan Historical Library and Hall of Fame aimed at preserving the city’s rich cultural and historical heritage.
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    ‎Akande, who serves as the Director-General of the Oyo State Agribusiness Development Agency (OYSADA) and Executive Adviser to Governor Seyi Makinde, made the disclosure during a foundation-laying ceremony held at Bode Amoo Hall, Ibadan House, Oke-Aremo.
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    The event was organised under the auspices of the 2026 Historical Tour Committee.
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    ‎Speaking at the ceremony, Akande described the project as a forward-looking initiative designed to safeguard Ibadan’s legacy for future generations.
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    ‎“This vision has been on my mind for a long time. It is not just about the present, but about building a legacy that will endure,” he said.
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    ‎He lamented what he described as a widening gap between younger generations and the history of Ibadan, noting that many youths are increasingly unaware of the city’s contributions to Yoruba heritage and national development.
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    ‎“Ask many young people today about notable figures in Ibadan’s history, and you may get little or no response. Yet, this city has produced great men and women who have excelled in various fields both locally and internationally,” he added.
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    ‎Akande explained that the proposed Hall of Fame would serve as both a museum and a knowledge hub, documenting and showcasing the achievements of past rulers, warriors, professionals, and other distinguished indigenes.
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    ‎“This project seeks to answer critical questions: where is our history documented, and where can people learn about the exploits of our heroes? It is about preserving our identity,” he said.
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    ‎In his remarks, the President-General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Chief (Barr.) Sulaiman Ajewole, said the initiative was conceived to immortalise the legacies of Ibadan’s heroes and heroines.
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    ‎Ajewole noted that the idea originated from a historical subcommittee of the council and would provide a platform to honour past rulers, warriors, philanthropists, politicians, and community leaders.
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    ‎“Preserving history means documenting and celebrating those who contributed to the growth of Ibadan. This ensures their legacies are not forgotten,” he said.
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    ‎He commended Akande for championing the initiative, describing him as a worthy ambassador of Ibadanland, and expressed confidence that the project would be completed within a short time.
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    ‎Ajewole added that upon completion, the Ibadan Historical Library and Hall of Fame would stand as a major cultural landmark in the city.
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  • Police raid criminal hideouts in Enugu, destroy drug bunk

    Police raid criminal hideouts in Enugu, destroy drug bunk

    Police raid criminal hideouts in Enugu, destroy drug bunk

     

    The Enugu State Police Command has raided suspected criminal hideouts at New Artisan axis of Enugu, destroyed a drug bunk and detained one Francisco Olugba, 29.

     

    The command’s Spokesman, SP Daniel Ndukwe, disclosed this in a statement issued in Enugu and made available to newsmen on Wednesday.

     

    Ndukwe stated that operatives of the command attached to the Anti-Cultism Tactical Squad, at about midnight on April 5, while on an intelligence-guided crime prevention patrol, raided suspected criminal hideouts at New Artisan.

     

    He stated that the team recovered quantities of suspected marijuana, some bags containing clothes suspected to have been stolen from victims, 11 SIM cards of different networks, a pair of scissors and other exhibits.

     

     

    He further stated that the operatives also dismantled drug peddling and consumption hubs, disrupted related criminal activities in the area and also destroyed makeshift structures allegedly used for criminal purposes.

     

    “Investigations are ongoing to apprehend other members of the criminal network and uncover the full extent of their operations,” Ndukwe stated.

     

    He quoted the Commissioner of Police, Mr Mamman Giwa, to have reiterated the command’s commitment to sustaining proactive policing strategies, aimed at combating crime and ensuring the safety and security of all the residents.

     

    He urged residents to remain law-abiding, vigilant and promptly report suspicious persons and activities anywhere in the state to the police.

  • America:  Kamala Harris Accuses Trump ot Threatening War  Crimes Over Iran Ultimatum 

    America:  Kamala Harris Accuses Trump ot Threatening War  Crimes Over Iran Ultimatum 

     

    Former US Vice President Kamala Harris has accused President Donald Trump of threatening to commit war crimes over his ultimatum to Iran. Harris wrote on X:

    “The President of the United States is threatening to commit war crimes and wipe out a ‘whole civilization’ — all because he started a disastrous war of his own making.”

    Trump had warned that a “whole civilization will die tonight” if Tehran did not comply with his demands. Senator Mark Kelly called the proposed operation “illegal.”

    Key Points:

    • Harris says Trump’s recklessness is destroying America’s global standing.
    • Kelly warns that destroying civilian infrastructure would violate the laws of armed conflict.
    • Democrats are rallying against Trump’s military threats to Iran.
    • Trump had threatened to “wipe out a whole civilization” in a Truth Social post.
    • The former VP called for opposition to funding “this illegal war of choice.”
  • Oborevwori Reveals Why His Administration Supports Developmental Programmes Of LG Councils

    Oborevwori Reveals Why His Administration Supports Developmental Programmes Of LG Councils

     

    By Fidelis Edugbo

    The Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori on Tuesday, revealed why his administration is supporting development efforts of local government Councils.

    The Governor made the revelation while commissioning projects executed by the administration of Hon. Augustine Ogedegbe in Ethiope East local government council.

    According to Governor Oborevwori who was represented by his Deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, Ph.D., by partnering with the local government councils, there will be speedy development across the state.

    “My administration will continue to support local government councils in their efforts to bring development closer to the people because together, we can build our communities, empower our citizens, and create a more prosperous Delta State.

    “As such, I am delighted to be here today in Ethiope East Local Government Area to commission these laudable projects and witness the distribution of empowerment items to our people.

    “I commend the leadership of the Council for this important initiative and for the opportunity to share in this milestone occasion.

    “What we are witnessing today is a clear demonstration of purposeful leadership at the grassroots; the projects executed by the Council, which include the renovated and fully furnished Administrative Block, the newly constructed ultra-modern staff main block, and the generator house are practical investments that will undoubtedly enhance service delivery, improve working conditions, and ensure greater efficiency in council operations.

    “Equally commendable is the empowerment initiative being undertaken. The distribution of items to youths, women, and vulnerable groups reflects a thoughtful and people-oriented approach to governance; I am particularly pleased to note the inclusion of persons with disabilities, which reinforces the central principle of my administration that development must be inclusive and leave no one behind.

    “These empowerment items are tools for economic advancement and I encourage all beneficiaries to make judicious use of them, to build sustainable livelihoods, and to contribute positively to the growth and stability of their communities.

    “This occasion highlights the proactive efforts of the Local Government Council and also reflects the broader strides we are making as a State in delivering meaningful development, expanding opportunities, and improving the welfare of our citizens.

    “Across Delta State, we have continued to invest in critical infrastructure, strengthen healthcare delivery, empower our people, and promote peace and security, in line with our MORE Agenda.

    “I commend the Chairman, Councillors, and the entire leadership of Ethiope East Local Government Council for aligning with the development vision of my administration under the MORE Agenda; your efforts here today clearly show that when leadership at all levels works in synergy, the dividends of democracy reach the grassroots more effectively,” the Governor said.

    Earlier, in a welcome address, the Chairman, Ethiope East Local Government Area, Hon. Austine Ogedegbe, said the local government is committed to enhancing productivity and providing a modern and conducive working environment for the people, adding that his visionary leadership is committed to good governance and relentless pursuit of the transformation of the Local Government.

    “I want to express my deepest appreciation to His Excellency: the Executive Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, through His RENEWED HOPE for MORE AGENDA, which gave us free hands to administer the dividends of democracy to our people,’ he said.

    Some of those who attended the ceremony included Deputy Speaker, Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Arthur Akpowowo, Deputy Chief of Staff, Government House, Sir Christopher Osakwe, the Director of Protocol, Hon. Sunday Onoriode, among others.

  • NAFDAC HELD MEETING WITH STAKEHOLDERS AND PARTNERS ON REDUCTION OF SODIUM IN PRE-PACKAGED FOODS REGULATIONS 2026

    NAFDAC HELD MEETING WITH STAKEHOLDERS AND PARTNERS ON REDUCTION OF SODIUM IN PRE-PACKAGED FOODS REGULATIONS 2026

     

    By Sayo Akintola

    The Director General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control NAFDAC, Prof Mojisola Adeyeye has cautioned Nigerians against excessive sodium intake to avoid diet-related non-communicable diseases such as hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, and stroke which she said are on the rise globally and within Nigeria.

    Prof Adeyeye gave the admonition at a stakeholders’ engagement on the draft NAFDAC Reduction of Sodium in Pre-Packaged Foods Regulations 2026 where she noted that excessive sodium intake has been identified as one of the leading dietary risk factors contributing to these conditions.

    According to her, the World Health Organisation has continued to emphasize sodium reduction as one of the cost-effective strategies for improving population heath and preventing premature deaths from non-communicable diseases.

    In Nigeria, Prof Adeyeye said, changing dietary patterns, rapid urbanisation, and increased consumption of processed and pre-packaged foods have significantly contributed to higher sodium intake among our population.

    She added that recognising this emerging public health concern, the Federal Government – through the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare and NAFDAC – has taken proactive steps to address this challenge.

    She maintained that the Reduction of Sodium in Pe-Packaged Foods Regulations 2026 is a key component of broader strategies to promote healthier diets and prevent non-communicable diseases, adding that these regulations aim to establish maximum sodium limits in selected categories of processed and pre-packaged foods, ensure clear and transparent labelling of sodium content, and encourage product reformulation by food manufacturers so that consumers can make healthier dietary choices.

    The NAFDAC boss, however, pointed out that, regulations alone cannot achieve the desired impact without the active participation of all stakeholders, stressing that the food industry especially plays a central role in reformulating products to reduce sodium content while maintaining safety, quality, and consumer acceptability.

    At the same time, she emphasized that regulators, researchers, public health advocates, and consumer organisations must work collaboratively to ensure implementation, monitoring and compliance.

    Cardiovascular Unit, University of Abuja that was present at the Meeting has worked closely with the FMOH&SW and NAFDAC on sodium reduction is in support of the regulations.

    Partners such as Network for Health Equity and Development NHED resolve to Save Lives and Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa CAPPA who were present and supported the stakeholders’ engagement underscored the importance of reducing sodium intake as a means of preventing non-communicable diseases.

    She added that the stakeholder engagement therefore provides an invaluable platform to:Present and clarify the key provisions of the proposed regulations.Obtain constructive feedback from industry and other stakeholders.Identify practical strategies for implementation. Strengthen collaboration in advancing healthier food environments in Nigeria.

    At NAFDAC, DG explained, ‘we recognise that regulatory reforms must be evidence-based, transparent, and inclusive. Our goal is not to disrupt industry operations, but to work with all partners to create a food system that supports both public health and sustainable economy.

    ’Prof Adeyeye stated that the reduction of sodium in our food supply is not merely a regulatory obligation – it is a national health priority, adding that ‘by taking decisive action today, we are protecting future generations from preventable diseases and improving the overall wellbeing of Nigerians.’

    The Director, Food Safety and Applied Nutrition (FSAN), Mrs Eva Edwards, corroborated the DG’s position as she stated that non-communicable diseases (NCDs) remain a major public health concern in Nigeria, with cardiovascular diseases accounting for a significant proportion of morbidity and mortality.

    For adults, she disclosed that the World Health Organization recommends a daily sodium intake of less than 2 grams, equivalent to 5 grams of salt (< 1 teaspoon of salt daily).

    She however, revealed that available data indicate that the average salt consumption in Nigeria is approximately 10 grams per day, about twice the WHO daily recommendation, adding that this excessive intake poses a serious risk to public health, particularly in the context of the increasing consumption of processed and ultra-processed foods, which are major contributors to dietary sodium intake.

    ‘Pre-packaged foods constitute a substantial and growing proportion of daily dietary intake, especially in urban settings. While these foods provide convenience and accessibility, they also contribute significantly to excessive sodium consumption, driving the scourge of cardiovascular diseases,’ adding that It is therefore imperative that deliberate and evidence-based measures are implemented to reduce sodium levels in these products.

    While sodium is essential for normal physiological functions such as nerve transmission, fluid balance, and muscle function, she warned that the quantity required by the body is minimal, noting that current consumption levels far exceed physiological needs, thereby increasing the risk of hypertension, stroke, heart disease, and kidney-related conditions.

    She disclosed that evidence from the National Multi-sectoral Action Plan for the Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases (2019–2025) indicates that mean sodium intake in Nigeria ranges from approximately 2.85 g/day to 10 g/day – highlighting the urgent need for targeted regulatory and public health interventions.

    ‘The National Multi-sectoral Action Plan for the Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases further identifies unhealthy diets as a major risk factor for non-communicable diseases and notes the ongoing dietary transition towards increased consumption of processed foods high in sodium, sugar, and trans fats.’In recognition of this growing public health challenge, and as part of efforts to reduce sodium intake, Mrs Edwards stated that the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare (FMoH&SW) initiated the development of the National Guidelines for Sodium Reduction, which provides specific sodium benchmarks for various food categories.

    She said this is aimed at promoting the reformulation of processed foods and encouraging the production of healthier options aligned with national health goals.She emphasised that the draft NAFDAC Reduction of Sodium in Pre-Packaged Foods Regulations therefore incorporates a phased sodium reduction strategy, beginning with an initial 15% reduction target and progressing toward the national target which is aligned with the WHO global target of achieving a 30% reduction in population sodium intake by 2030. According to Mrs Edwards, the Sodium Reduction Regulations represent a strategic regulatory response to meet the national target and address the public health concern of high sodium intake, stressing that the objective is to guide the food industry towards gradual product reformulation and the promotion of healthier food environments, without compromising product quality or consumer acceptance, ultimately to protect the health of consumers.

    Noting that government alone cannot achieve this, Mrs Edwards stated that it requires the collective effort of policymakers, regulators, the food industry, public health advocates, academia, and consumers.The Director General rounded up the meeting by emphasizing the importance of the stakeholders meeting stating that inputs received are used to further edit the draft regulations before the document goes to the NAFDAC Governing Council for further assessment.

    Thereafter, the regulations are given additional review by FMoH&SW and Ministry of Justice before gazetting. Meanwhile, the food industry is made aware of the development of the regulations and the expectations in the planned phased reduction of sodium content in processed foods as means of prevention of non-communicable diseases such as hypertension and other heart diseases in the population.

     

    (SAYO AKINTOLA is NAFDAC Resident Media Consultant)

  • Between Rhetoric and Reality: A Measured Appraisal of Nyesom Wike’s “Shooting” Remark Against Seun Okinbaloye

    Between Rhetoric and Reality: A Measured Appraisal of Nyesom Wike’s “Shooting” Remark Against Seun Okinbaloye

     

    *Between Rhetoric and Re

     

    By Sylvester Udemezue

    Expressions such as “I felt like killing him” or “I felt like shooting him” are, within the ordinary fabric of human communication, widely understood as figurative and emotional outbursts, not literal threats, particularly when uttered in moments of anger, frustration, or strong disapproval.

    They belong to the realm of rhetorical exaggeration (hyperbole), employed to convey the depth of one’s feelings rather than any actual intention to inflict harm. In everyday conversational settings, such expressions are typically innocuous. They are interpreted as linguistic devices used to underscore displeasure. A person emerging from a heated disagreement may, for instance, say, “I felt like killing him,” not to suggest any contemplated act of violence, but merely to emphasize the intensity of their emotional reaction. In such contexts, no legal or practical consequence ordinarily arises.

    However, it must be emphasized, indeed, it cannot be overstated, that context is the lifeblood of meaning. Words do not exist in isolation; their significance is shaped by the circumstances in which they are used.

    The same expression may assume vastly different implications depending on factors such as tone, setting, audience, and accompanying conduct. A remark made in jest among friends may be harmless, whereas the same words uttered in anger, directed at a specific individual, or accompanied by prior hostility or threatening behaviour, may acquire a more serious connotation.

    Where such expressions are reinforced by repeated utterances, suggestive conduct, or surrounding circumstances capable of instilling fear, they may, in appropriate cases, be construed as a credible threat. From a legal perspective, both under Nigerian law and within broader common law jurisprudence, the principle is settled: a mere emotional or figurative expression does not, without more, constitute a criminal offence. However, where a statement gives rise to a reasonable apprehension of harm or conveys a genuine intention to cause injury, it may cross the threshold into criminal intimidation or assault (in the sense of placing another in fear of imminent harm). The governing test is objective:
    Would a reasonable person, in the circumstances, interpret the statement as a real and credible threat?

    It is against this analytical and legal backdrop that the remark attributed to Mr Nyesom Wike concerning Mr Seun Okinbaloye ought to be examined. In my respectful view, it is both difficult and, with respect, unreasonable to construe Mr Wike’s use of the word “shooting” as conveying any literal or physical intention. What he said is, in substance, consistent with expressions commonly used in everyday discourse to convey strong dissatisfaction or disapproval. It reflects intensity of sentiment, not an intention to harm.

    For the avoidance of doubt, I hold no brief for Mr Wike. Nor do I necessarily endorse his style of communication, which may fairly be described as forceful and, at times, inelegant. However, intellectual honesty and fairness require that we distinguish between rhetorical excess and actual threat. A careful, dispassionate, and objective reading of the statement suggests that Mr Wike was merely expressing strong displeasure, whether with the substance of Mr Okinbaloye’s views or the manner in which those views were articulated on the programme in question.

    One may legitimately disagree with Mr Wike. One may criticise his tone. But to elevate such an expression into a threat of violence is, with respect, a conclusion that does not withstand logical scrutiny. It stretches interpretation beyond reasonable bounds and risks fostering misunderstanding where none need exist.

    That said, it must equally be acknowledged that within professional, political, and media environments, such expressions are often considered imprudent, ill-advised, and potentially damaging. Even where they fall short of criminality, they may attract public backlash, invite misinterpretation, and adversely affect reputation. Public officials, by virtue of their position and influence, bear a heightened responsibility to communicate with restraint, clarity, and sensitivity.

    It is also imperative to underscore, as a matter of fundamental constitutional principle, that politicians and public office holders must, at all times, respect and uphold the rights to freedom of speech and expression, as well as the freedom of dissent. These freedoms are not mere privileges; they are indispensable pillars of any functioning constitutional democracy. The right of journalists, broadcasters, and members of the public to freely hold, express, and disseminate opinions on matters of public interest must be jealously guarded and consistently respected. Democracy thrives not on uniformity of opinion, but on the robust exchange of ideas, criticism, and divergent viewpoints. Strong disagreement is not a threat to democracy; it is one of its defining features.

    Accordingly, expressions, whether verbal or implied, what may be perceived as suppressive, intimidating, or dismissive of dissent must be approached with caution, particularly by those entrusted with public authority. The practical takeaway, therefore, is both simple and significant: While such expressions are not inherently literal, they are context-sensitive and potentially risky. What may be harmless in informal conversation can, in a different setting, assume legal or reputational significance if it is perceived, rightly or wrongly, as a real threat.

    Ultimately, in an era marked by heightened sensitivity and instantaneous dissemination of information, we owe ourselves, and the society we seek to build, a duty of measured judgment, intellectual discipline, and interpretive restraint. Not every forceful expression should be hastily politicised or sensationalised. Each situation must be assessed on its own merit, guided by reason, fairness, context, and a commitment to truth.
    Respectfully,
    Sylvester Udemezue (Udems).
    08021365545
    udems@therealityministry.ngo.
    (06 April 2026)

  • Court jailed man 10-years for facilitating N750, 000 cash swap to Boko Haram

    Court jailed man 10-years for facilitating N750, 000 cash swap to Boko Haram

     

    The Federal High Court in Abuja, on Tuesday, convicted and sentenced Awal Bello to a 10-year imprisonment for facilitating the exchange of the sum of N750, 000 notes to Boko Haram during currency swap in 2023.

    Justice Binta Nyako, in a judgment, also sentenced Bello to a 10-year jail term for paying a tax of N20, 000 to Boko Haram contary to Section 21 of the Terrorism Prevention Act, 2013.

    Justice Nyako, who found the defendant guilty of the offence after he pleaded guilty to the two-count charge preferred against him by the office of the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), ordered that the sentencing shall run concunrently.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Federal Government in the charge, marked: FHC/KNJ/CR/563/2026, had sued Awal Bello as sole defendant.

    In count one, Bello of Mantari Village in the Bama Local Government Area of Borno was alleged to have in 2023, rendered support by facilitating Nigerian currency notes of N750, 000 to Boko Haram contrary to Section 13 of the Terrorism Prevention Act, 2013, and punishable under the same act.

    In count two, he was accused to have paid a N20, 000 tax to the terrorist organisation contrary to Section 21 of Terrorism Prevention Act, 2013.

    Bello, who pleaded guilty to the charge, begged the court to temper justice with mercy.

    Justice Nyako, who sentenced him to a 10 year imprisonment in each of the counts, ordered that Bello be rehabilitated and deradicalised.

    In another case involving Hamat Modu, who pleaded guilty to being a member of Boko Haram group, Justice Nyako sentenced him to 10 years jail term in each of the four counts bordering on terrorism offences, following his guilty plea.

    The judge, who directed that the counts must run concurrently, also ordered that Modu should undergo rehabilitation and deradicalisation.

    Also, Isah Ali, who was 18-year-old at the time of his arrest, pleaded not guilty to count one but pleaded guilty to count two of the two-count charge.

    B. M. Jibo, lawyer to the Federal Government, applied that the court should strike out count one and accordingly convict Ali in count two.

    She urged the court to also admit his confessional statement and investigation report as exhibits.

    Ali, while pleading for mercy, said he was young when he was drafted into the terror group.

    The defence lawyer, Aliyu Abubakar, the Director General, Legal Aid Council, also pleaded for mercy.

    “The defendant was 18 years when he was arrested and had been in detention since three years now.

    “It is another case of terrorism by association. We pleaded that the court should take this into consideration in sentencing him,” he begged.

    Justice Nyako, who struck out count one, sentenced the defendant to 10 years imprisonment in count two and ordered for his rehabilitation and deradicalisation.

    The judge, in another case, sentenced Shehu Bukar to 20 years imprisonment in count three in which he pleaded guilty out of the five counts preferred against him.

    Count three accused him of rendering support as livestock rustler by selling goats to Boko Haram group contrary to Section 5 of Terrorism Prevention Act, 2013.

    Bukar, however, pleaded not guilty to other counts, including count two where he was alleged to have participated in a terrorist attack at Konduga in Borno where scores of people were killed.

    A 43-year-old Alhaji Kulle was sentenced to a five-year jail term in count one and three of the three-count terrorism charge which must run concurrently.

    The prosecution had, in the count three, accused Kulle of paying the sum of N6000 to Boko Haram weekly, knowing that the money would be used to finance terrorism activities.

    Justice Nyako equally jailed Tasiu Yakubu seven years in a one-count charge preferred against him by the Federal Government.

    The AGF and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, who led other lawyers including Rotimi Oyedepo, SAN, the Director of Public Prosecutions, in the trial, tendered Yakubu’s confessional statement and investigation report as evidence before the court, urging the court to convict Yakubu in accordance with the law.

    Abubakar, DG of Legal Aid, did not object but prayed the court to temper justice with mercy since the defendant had been remorseful.

    But Fagbemi argued that based on Section 5 of the Terrorism Prevention Act, Yakubu ought to be given 20 years imprisonment though his sentencing might run from his date of arrest.

    According to him, sentencing guidelines must follow what the law says.

    After listening to the parties, Justice Nyako sentenced Yakubu to seven years jail term from the date of his arrest and ordered for his rehabilitation and deradicalisation.

    In another development, Justice Nyako sentenced Abdullahii Ali to a 20-year imprisonment in a one-count charge filed against him.

    Ali, who was alleged to have rendered support to the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) by assisting through logistic supply of fuel to the terror group, admitted committing the offence.

    The offence is said to be contrary to Section 13 and 13(b) of the Terrorism Prevention Act, 2013.

    Fagbemi urged the court to sentence him in accordance with the law.

    The judge, in his judgment, sentenced Ali to 20-year jail term beginning from Nov. 20, 2023, which was the date of his arrest.

  • FG prosecuting 500 suspected terrorists in Phase 9 of mass trial

    FG prosecuting 500 suspected terrorists in Phase 9 of mass trial

     

    The Federal Government has moved forward with the prosecution of 500 suspected terrorists as part of an intensified effort to tackle insecurity

    Mr Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, said this on Tuesday while speaking to newsmen shortly after he led a team of the Federal Government’s lawyers to the Federal High Court (FHC) in Abuja where he appeared as prosecution counsel.

    The minister said the 500 defendants are being prosecuted in the ongoing Phase 9 of the mass trial of suspected terrorists in Abuja.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) ealier reported that the mass trial of the suspected terrorists was moved to Abuja from the usual location in Kainji, Niger State.

    Speaking, the AGF said the trial, which began on Tuesday, would be concluded between Friday or Saturday.

    “For today, we have 227 suspects brought to court on this terrorism charges and they are appearing before 10 judges of the Federal High Court.

    ” Don’t forget, this is Easter period. Ordinarily, the judges are not supposed to be here; they are supposed to be in their various homes to observe the Easter vacation.

    “But they have been so patriotic and they have prioritised the trial of terrorism suspects to underscore the importance that is attached to this trial. So we thank them.

    “This is Phase 9, don’t forget. For Phase 9, we have 500 in all and it will last till either Friday or Saturday.

    “It is hoped that from these 500, we will be able to go very very far.

    “So we thank all the critical stakeholders, including of course you, members of the fourth estate of the realm, for considering the service to the nation first and foregoing your Easter period,” he said.

    On why the trial was moved from Kainji to Abuja, the minister said it was due to logistic purpose.

    “Whether the cases are tried in Kainji or Maiduguri, those to try terrorism suspects are judges of the Federal High Court.

    “For logistic purpose, it is not convenient to go to Kainji, , although the same judges would have been ferried to Kainji.

    “But it is more convenient here; we have more courtrooms here and the facilities, and for 10 judges at a time, you know what it means. It means a lot.

    “That’s why we brought these ones here. We have an enablement in terms of law to sit here and that is why we are sitting here,” he said.

    Fagbemi said Amnesty International, tur media, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), members of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), members of the human rights community, etc, are in attendance to show that the proceedings are undergoing due process.

    According to the minister, nobody will be convicted unless he has satisfied the provisions of thr law.

    “And that is why we are here. It is in the open; it is not a secret trial.

    “You will see where confessions are made, where proof is given. Evertrhing I’d in the public glear and you can see things for yourself.

    “What has taken the Director General of the Legal Aid Council to also forgo his holiday this period is also appreciated.

    “We have the full complement of the Federal Ministry of Justice, especially the Public Prosecution Department ably led by the Director of Public Prosecutions Department of the Federation, Rotimi Oyedepo,” he said.

    Also speaking, the DG, Legal Aid Council, who led the defence team, expressed satisfaction with the trial.

    He said the terrorism trial was made a little easy because majority of the suspects admit to committing the crime.

    “This has been our experience over the years and today’s trial is not different. Majority of them admit to committing the crime.

    “A large number of them are also been convicted for association with Boko Haram.

    “Some of them are not active participants in the Boko Haram or ISWAP activities as the case may be.

    “But they are being convicted as you are all aware under the law, becauuse association is as grievous as committing an offence.

    “Happily, I can say one or two suspects have been discharged and acquitted.

    “You can imagine for somebody who have been in detention for four, five years under the military custody to be discharged and acquitted, showed that the trial has some levels of transparency,” he said.

    Abubakar also said that as defrnce lawyers, , they were given the facility to interact with the suspects before being brought to court.

    According to him, it is a pre-requisite of the law.

    He said pre-trial interviews were conducted for the defendants in Maiduguri and Kainji and his team was able to interact with those who were newly brought in on Monday before today’s trial.

  • Untitled post 87095

     

    By Folasade Akpan

    Abuja:  (NAN)/Flowerbudnews :  The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has released the timetable for the 2026 Batch ‘A’ Stream Two orientation course for prospective corps members scheduled to take place nationwide across all states.

    The scheme disclosed this in a statement issued by its Director of Information and Public Relations, Mrs Caroline Embu, on Wednesday in Abuja, outlining key dates and guidelines for participants.

    According to the statement, the three-week orientation course will hold simultaneously in all the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory for eligible participants nationwide.

    She said the exercise would commence with the reception and registration of prospective corps members on April 22 and end at midnight on April 24 across all orientation camps.

    The NYSC added that the swearing-in ceremony for the prospective corps members would take place on April 24, marking the formal commencement of the orientation programme activities nationwide.

    Embu stated that the orientation course would officially end on May 12, after which corps members would proceed to their respective places of primary assignment across the country.

    The scheme urged all Nigerian graduates mobilised for the service year to ensure safe travel to their respective orientation camps across the country ahead of the programme.

    She reiterated the scheme’s warning against night journeys, advising prospective corps members to prioritise their safety while travelling to orientation camps and other assigned locations nationwide.

    “Prospective corps members are advised to break their journeys once it is 6.00 p.m. and pass the night at any available lodge or secure location nearby.

    “They are to continue their journeys the following morning,” she said, stressing the importance of adhering to safety guidelines issued by the scheme for all participants.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the NYSC orientation course is a compulsory programme designed to prepare Nigerian graduates for the one-year national service programme nationwide.

    The scheme, established in 1973, aims to promote national unity and integration by deploying graduates to states other than their states of origin for national service.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)