Flowerbud News

Author: Ibrahim Abusadiq

  • 3,590 inmates on death row in Nigeria – NCoS

    3,590 inmates on death row in Nigeria – NCoS

    Flowerbud News

    No fewer than 3,590 inmates across the custodial centres in Nigeria are on death row, the Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS), has revealed.

    NCoS Public Relations Officer, Assistant Controller of Corrections (ACC) Abubakar Umar made this known while speaking to  the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Abuja.

    Umar said that the total number of inmates in centres across the country is 84,741 comprising of 82,821 males and 1,920 females “as at Sept. 3, 2024.

    The NCoS spokesman put the total number of Awaiting Trial Inmates (ATIs) at 57,750 comprising 56,303 males and 1,447 females.

    “The breakdown according to their classes is: convicted inmates are 21,900 comprising of 21,519 males and 381 females, while lifers are 1,501 comprising of 1,478 males and 23 females.

    “The total number of Inmates on Death Row (IDR) was made up of 3,517 males and 73 females making a total of 3,590,” he said.

    Umar said that majority of inmates in custody were Awaiting Trial Persons (ATPs), posing a significant challenge for the Service due to their high numbers.

    He, however, assured that the Service was taking steps to addressing the issue and ensuring timely judicial processing for the Awaiting Trial Persons (ATPs).”

    “Thanks to the initiative and backing of the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, we successfully reduced the inmate population by releasing 4,063 individuals who were given the option to pay fines and/or compensation.”

    “The Service is also tackling custodial congestion through the construction of new facilities, expansion of community sentencing, improvement of court logistics, and implementation of various decongestion measures, in addition to the release of inmates,”he said.

    Umar stated that the Service’s efforts to build partnerships with other agencies have paid off, leading to enhanced security and positive results in and around custodial facilities.

    He said “the Service has taken steps to reinforce the security of custodial facilities against external threats, and we have maintained a stable and secure environment within our facilities, with no incidents of internal insurrection.

    Umar also noted that the Service saw significant enhancements in the treatment and care of inmates, particularly in the areas of personal reformation, rehabilitation programs, and successful reintegration into society.

    He added that the partnership between the NCoS and NOUN was yielding practical results, with a significant number of inmates enrolled in various academic programs, including advanced degrees, while serving their sentences.

    He said that a total of 1,282 inmates were enrolled in the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) special study centre as at August 31, 2024.

    “A break down according to thier various programmes include: total number of NOUN inmates students studying for Bachelor of Sciences (B.Sc) as at August 31 is 1,215.

    “Total number of NOUN inmates students studying for Post Graduate Diploma (PGD) and Master as at August, 31 is 62

    “Also, a total number of NOUN inmates Students Studying for Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) are five and three are currently writing their thesis ,”he said.

    NAN

  • Emir Sanusi offers to help resolve Fulani crises

    Emir Sanusi offers to help resolve Fulani crises

    Flowerbud News

    The 16th Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, has expressed his willingness to intervene in the Fulani crises in Nigeria, with the goal of finding a permanent solution.
    The News Agency of Nigeria ( NAN) reports that Sunusi spoke at his Palace on Tuesday while receiving the leadership of Tapital Pulaku Njode Jam Nigeria, a Fulani group with members across the 36 states.
    The emir emphasised that his efforts would require the full support of the Federal Government, leveraging their resources and authority to implement his strategy.
    He acknowledged the sufferings of Fulanis in Nigeria, including  isolation and cattle rustling, among others.
    The traditional ruler recognised that some Fulanis have engaged in criminal activities, tarnishing the reputation of their people.
    The emir proposed a joint intervention with the Federal Government to address the crises, particularly between the Fulanis and farmers, and to prevent further criminal activities.
    He offered his personal support to the government in achieving peace and prosperity for Fulanis and all Nigerians.
    The leader of the Fulani group, Ibrahim Buba-Jada, pledged their allegiance to Sanusi II, believing in his leadership and commitment to their well-being.
    Buba-Jada highlighted the group’s extensive membership across the 36 states and their willingness to support the emir’s efforts to restore their reputation and contributions to Nigeria.
    NAN
  • Nigeria gets largest intervention fund spent in Africa – Gates

    Nigeria gets largest intervention fund spent in Africa – Gates

    Flowerbud News

    Bill Gates, Co-chair of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, says Nigeria gets the largest intervention fund spent by the foundation in Africa.

    Gates said this during an interview session with selected journalists on the sidelines of the 2024 NutriVision Dialogue on Tuesday in Abuja.

    According to him, helping reduce health inequality globally is the top priority of the foundation, including getting rid of diseases like measles, malaria, and polio.

    “We spend a lot in Asia, but we spend even more in Africa. The country we spend the most in Africa is Nigeria.

    “That makes sense because of the population and because of the incredible needs that are here.

    “That means that I’ve literally spent billions in Nigeria.

    “I feel glad that things like the child mortality rate have come down, but we could do a lot better,” he said.

    Gates further said that the foundation planned to spend more in future, disclosing that the funding would be centred on improving primary health care.

    “Our work is almost entirely primary health care because the impact per dollar is dramatically greater than anywhere else,” he said.

    He said that asides health, the foundation also invests lots of money in the agric sector, noting that boosting agricultural productivity was critical to Nigeria’s economic development.

    This, he said, would be achievable through access to high yield and climate resistant seeds, fertilisers, improved and timely information and better weather predictions to farmers.

    According to him, this will significantly boost agricultural output and lower food cost.

    The philanthropist said that the foundation supports partners in implementing food fortification of some staple foods, noting that this improves the nutritional quality of food supply and provides a public health benefit.

    He emphasised that having access to a variety of low-cost foods, especially, milk and eggs are quite powerful to reducing malnutrition.

    Gates noted that the time was apt to utilise innovative ideas and tools in the health and agricultural sector to substantially reduce malnutrition.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that since its inception in 2000, the foundation has supported partnerships with African regional institutions, national governments, and local communities in 49 African countries.

    The foundation contributes funding and scientific expertise in support of their agendas for change.

    These partnerships have driven the success of numerous health, agriculture, equality, and anti-poverty initiatives.

    The foundation has committed more than $7 billion through 2026 to support African countries and institutions working to develop and implement innovative approaches to confront hunger, disease, gender inequality, and poverty.

    NAN

  • NLC demands immediate reversal of new pump price of petrol

    NLC demands immediate reversal of new pump price of petrol

    Flowerbud News

    The Congress made the demand in a statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja by its  President, Mr Joe Ajaero and made available to newsmen.

    The Nigerian Petroleum Corporation Ltd. (NNPCL) on Tuesday morning, reportedly directed increase in its pump price of between N568 – N617 per litre to N855 – N897 per litre, depending on the area.

    Although, the company had denied issuing the directive, checks at NNPCL retail stations in Abuja reflected the new price of N897 per litre

    Reacting to the development, Ajaero said the Congress felt a deep sense of betrayal by the increase in the pump price of petrol.

    He recalled that, one of the reasons for accepting N70,000 as national minimum wage was the understanding that the pump price of petrol would not be increased, even as they knew that N70,000 was not sufficient.

    The labour leader recalled their meeting with President Bola Tinubu, where they were given the options of either N250,000 minimum wage and a rise of  pump price between N1,500 and N2,000 or N70,000 minimum wage and retaining pump price of N568 – N617 per litre.

    “We opted for the latter because we could not bring ourselves to accept further punishment on Nigerians.

    “But here we are, barely one month after and with government yet to commence payment of the new national minimum wage, confronted by a reality we cannot explain. It is both traumatic and nightmarish.

    “Yet, when we told government that it’s approach to resolving the fuel subsidy contradictions was patently faulty and would not last, it’s front row cheer leaders sneered at us, saying we did not understand basic economics .

    “But if truth be told, this act of betrayal is consistent,’” he said.

    Ajaero also recalled the assurances given to the congress by the leadership of the National Assembly on the reversal of 250 per cent electricity tariff hike.

    He said, instead of the promised reversal, the rate has since been jerked up further, putting more Nigerians and businesses in jeopardy.

    In addition to the reversal of the increased price of petrol pump price and electricity tariff, the NLC called for the release of all those incarcerated or being prosecuted for participating or purportedly participated in the recent #Endbadgovernance protest.

    Ajaero said the Congress also demanded a halt in the indiscriminate arrest and detention of citizens on trumped up charges.

    “The Congress demand a stop to the hijack of the duties of the Ministry of Labour and Employment.

    “We also demand end to policies that engender hunger and insecurity as well as a halt to government’s culture of terror, fear and lying,” he said.

    Ajaero said in the coming days, the appropriate organs of the congress would be meeting to take appropriate decisions which would be made public.

    NAN

  • Deepening Nigeria-China Relations Under The FOCAC Framework

    Deepening Nigeria-China Relations Under The FOCAC Framework

    By – Lawal Sale

    “There is no better mirror than a best friend,” – popular African proverb.

    The true meaning of this axiom can be better comprehended via a particular focus on the decades-old Nigeria-China relations.

    Bilateral relations and cooperation between Nigeria and China date back to 1971 when the two countries established diplomatic relations.

    Like Siamese twins, the two nations have several things in common. For instance, while Nigeria is the most populous nation in Africa, China is the most populous in the entire world. Interestingly, the two friendly countries also share that same independence/national day — October 1.

    Nigeria gained its independence from British colonial rule on October 1, 1960, while the People’s Republic of China was founded on October 1, 1949.

    As bilateral relationships between the two countries continue to flourish in the last 53 years, many landmark achievements have been recorded, epitomizing the pragmatic benefits of having a strong strategic partnership among nations.

    Foreign affairs experts note that Nigeria and China have always exhibited mutual respect for one another, while treating each other as equal partners and achieving a lot in bilateral cooperation. Suffice to say that on the international stage, the two nations have always bonded to defend each other’s interests.

    This year, between Sept. 4 and Sept. 6 to be specific, China is hosting the 9th Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in Beijing, where President Xi Jinping is expected to deliver a keynote speech and hold relevant bilateral meetings with leaders of FOCAC member countries as well as invited representatives of African and regional organisations.

    The Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) was established in 2000 as a triennial platform for high-level political coordination, marking the beginning of a new era in global relations. Through the FOCAC platform, China and Africa have solidified their win-win cooperation in fostering dialogue and collaboration for a shared future for mankind.

    FOCAC Summits have been held successfully eight times since its inception, with the last Summit held in Dakar, Senegal, in 2021. The gathering of the Chinese and African leaders under the FOCAC platform in the last two decades has evolved to ensure it remains a solid platform for deepening ties between the two sides.

    FOCAC provides an avenue for the two sides to exchange ideas, initiate agreements and develop strategies to strengthen economic growth and enhance Africa’s sustainable development.

    Mr Charles Onunaiju, the Director of China Study Centre in Abuja, Nigeria, said: “The gains of FOCAC process will reaffirm China-Africa and Nigeria, in general, as the most formidable pole of peace, stability and mutual respect in the evolving multilateral and law-governed international order despite the existential vicissitudes of the Western practice of power politics and bloc confrontations.”

    Over the years, under the FOCAC platform, diplomatic relations and regular high-level dialogues have been achieved, allowing both sides to align their interests and collaborate on the international stage.

    It is evident that trade and investment volumes in many African countries have increased exponentially, with China as a leading trading partner of the African continent. Chinese investments cut across diverse sectors, including digital economy, blue economy, creative economy, rail and road infrastructure, energy projects, dams, free trade zones, and airport terminal construction, agriculture, health and education.

    Nigeria, as one of the major partners of China and a pioneer FOCAC member-state, would be participating in the September summit, and President Bola Tinubu is leading the Nigerian delegation and hold bilateral talks with President Xi Jinping.

    There are a lot of expectations from the bilateral talks, as Nigeria and China have all along been involved in several economic programmes. Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria Yu Dunhai said that “when it comes to economic area under the FOCAC and Belt and Road Initiative framework, China and Nigeria have conducted a lot of cooperation.

    “Nigeria is now China’s largest engineering contracting partner in Africa, the second largest exporting market, third largest trading partner and major investment destination in Africa.”

    Ambassador Yu expatiated that the 9th Summit “would provide unique opportunities for the two sides to coordinate and cooperate in international arenas, China and Nigeria are both developing countries and members of the global South.

    “When we work together, we could improve just an equitable international order to defend the developing countries in general. So, there is a lot to expect from this summit,” he added

    Observers note that Nigeria has been reaping the fruits of its strategic partnership with China for a shared future for mankind.

    By and large, the coming FOCAC summit in September is largely expected to open up new frontiers of socio-economic partnerships that will ultimately fast-track Nigeria’s national development in a more pragmatic way.

    — Lawal Sale is an Abuja-based Global Affairs Analyst. (lawalmaida1@yahoo.com)

  • EFCC warns lawyers against violating anti-money laundering rules

    EFCC warns lawyers against violating anti-money laundering rules

    Flowerbud News

    Its Spokesman, Dele Oyewale, said this in a statement on Wednesday, in Abuja.

    He quoted Olukoyede as giving the warning at a panel discussion on money laundering at the ongoing 64th Annual General Conference of Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Conference 2024 in Lagos.

    The EFCC boss urged the legal practitioners to always observe due diligence in their practices.

    This, according to him, is necessary  for them to know the background of their clients so as not to run foul of AML/CTF regulations.

    “As lawyers, we are supposed to hold a position of trust in our professional conduct.

    “While we try to comply with international laws and regulations, we should also do what is right for ourselves so as to protect the sanctity of our profession, which is very key,”  he said.

    He urged them to take cognisance of the international conventions against money laundering.

    According to him, doing the right thing doesn’t necessarily come from the way of international conventions.

    “If you do the right things, they will automatically take you out of the grey list.

    “It is expedient on you to, at least, know who your client is. You are expected to be paid from a legitimate source”.

    “If you are a victim of crimes, you will understand what I am saying. As lawyers , you must not, in any way, derogate or demean your professional commitment to your clients.

    “Even a part of the money laundering Act that we have evaluated doesn’t stop me from enforcing the regulations of the EFCC Act and other financial laws in Nigeria,” he said.

    Olukoyede emphasized that lawyers were not insulated from prosecution, if they failed to do the right thing.

    “It is my duty to trace the proceeds of crimes. And if I trace it to you, I will invite you for questioning, and it is your duty to answer my questions.

    “I mean, why do we talk about aiding and abetting crimes? Why do we have accessories before and after the fact?

    “Knowing this will assist me to determine your level of culpability or otherwise.

    “We are not saying you are not entitled to your pay but what we are saying is that the money that comes to you must not be proceeds of crimes,” he said.

    NBA President, Yakubu Maikyau, SAN, in his remark tried to clarify the salient points raised by Olukoyede during the session.

    Maikyau also urged lawyers to receive Olukoyede’s charge with an open mind.

    He added that both the NBA and the Commission should be partners in the fight against corruption.

    “Who else should be in the vanguard of the fight against corruption other than us?” He said.

    NAN

  • Strike: FG, ASUU reach compromise, to reconvene Sept. 6

    Strike: FG, ASUU reach compromise, to reconvene Sept. 6

    Flowerbud News

    The Federal Government and Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) have reached a compromise to avert the strike notice issued by the union.
    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that ASUU on Aug. 19,  at the end of its NEC meeting held at the University of Ibadan, issued a 21-day strike notice to the federal government over some unmet demands
     At the end of a meeting by both parties on Wednesday in Abuja, a sub-committee was set up to review ASUU’s demands while the government promised to ensure lasting solutions to the crisis.
    The meeting which lasted for about two and half hours was at the instance of the Minister of Education, Prof Tahir Mamman and had in attendance the leadership of ASUU led by its National President, Prof. Emmanuel Osodeke.
    Briefing newsmen at the end of the closed door meeting,  the minister said both parties agreed to reconvene on Sept. 6.
    Mamman said a sub-committee had been set up to review the demands of the union, and ensure that all grey areas are ironed out and resolved
    On his part, the ASUU President expressed the hope that all issues would be resolved before the Sept. 6 meeting.
    “We have met to discuss all the issues and review them. We have given government between now and the next meeting to see what they have to do.
    “We believe in the interest of the Nigerian child and we will be protecting their interest if the issues are resolved amicably,” he said.
     NAN reports that the strike notice by ASUU is expected to elapse on Sept. 9, three days after the rescheduled meeting.
    In addressing the demand of the union, the minister, earlier today, constituted an implementation monitoring committee of NEEDS Assessment intervention fund for Nigerian public universities
    NAN reports that ASUU is seeking a comprehensive overhaul of the university system, including improved infrastructure, enhanced academic freedom, and a more sustainable funding model.
    Other demands of the union, included,  the release of revitalisation funds for universities, renegotiation of the 2009 FGN/ASUU agreement, and release of earned allowances for university lecturers.
    Others are deployment of the University Transparency and Accountability Solution (UTAS).
    NAN
  • New Niger Agenda: Gov Bago constructs 100 PHCs to boost healthcare delivery

    New Niger Agenda: Gov Bago constructs 100 PHCs to boost healthcare delivery

    By Mohammed Baba Busu

    In an effort to ensure the successful realisation of the ‘New Niger’ Agenda’, the state government has embarked on the construction of 100 units of Level-2 Primary Health Care Centres, simultaneously ongoing without hitches across the state.

    This is contained in a statement issued by the Governor’s Special Adviser on Digital Media and Strategy, Abdullberqy Usman-Ebbo, on Tuesday in Minna.

    According to the aide, the governor, at the ceremony, further announced that about 20 of these centres were to commence immediately while others will subsequently come on stream.

    He added that two out of the said facilities could not begin due to some technical issues.

    They were those located at the Maitumbi FM in Bosso and Old Orphanage, Nasarawa C, in Chanchaga Local Government Area.

    Abdulberqy-Ebbo pointed out that Bago stated that these PHCs would be situated across the 25 local governments of the state.

    This is to ensure that that the people can access quality healthcare services within their communities without having to travel far.

    According to him, the centres will be equipped with modern facilities such as beds, maternity equipment, computers and 24- hour solar power system, among others.

    This is also to ensure effective and efficient service delivery to the people of the state

    Abdulberqy-Ebbo maintained that out of the centres, 20 are set to be completed in the next few weeks.

    According to him, this is an indication that the present administration under the leadership of Bago has prioritised the health sector to enhance the provision of quality health care facilities in the state.

    He revealed the locations for the ongoing projects in their respective local government areas.

    They are: Chanchaga – Old Airport, Tunga Bay Clinic Road and Kpakungu while Kontagora has Commercial School and Kawo Ward.

    Others are: Gurara – Lefu, Suleja – Second Gate, Lavun – Doko, Lapai – Duma Zago Ward, Shiroro – Rafin Kuka, Bosso – Garatu and Wushishi – Maito

    The rest include: Paiko – Tungan Mallam
    Bida – Gbagbara, Agwara – Mago, Mariga – Kumbashi,bKatcha – Kateregi and Gbako – Gbadafu respectively

    It could be recalled that on June 2024, Bago performed the groundbreaking for the construction of the said centres in Minna.

  • Development: Niger Govt reiterates commitment to partner with journalist

    Development: Niger Govt reiterates commitment to partner with journalist

    By Mohammed Baba Busu

    Niger state government has reiterated its determination to work harmoniously with the media to ensure the growth and development of the state.

    The state made declaration when the Niger state Correspondents Chapel of NUJ led by the Chairman, Comrade Yakubu Mustapha Bina paid a separate courtesy visits to the governor’s media aides at government house in Minna on Monday.

    The three media aides, include; the Chief Press Secretary, Ibrahim Bologi, Special Adviser Print Media, Aisha Wakaso and Special Adviser Digital Media and Strategy, Abdullberqy Usman Ebbo where they unanimously agreed to work with the media in the interest of the society and the state.

    Comrade Yakubu Mustapha Bina drew the attention of government to some critical issues affecting the union and applauded governor Mohammed Umar Bago’s unpresidented ongoing developmental projects across all sectors of the economy and assured his members of working within the ambit of the profession without fear or favour.

    On there parts, the Chief Press Secretary Ibrahim Bologi called for the support and understanding of the media in ensuring the required publicity of governor Mohammed Umar Bago’s government activities, adding that the media are partners in progress and accorded the desire respect.

    Similarly, the Special Adviser Digital Media and Strategy, Abdullberqy Usman Ebbo who commended the chapel for the visit, assured of smooth working relationship with the media to the benefit of both parties in the state.

    Also, the Special Adviser Print Media Aisha Wakaso reaffirmed the commitment of the state government in carrying everybody along in its activities to ensure adequate and proper publicity of Niger state programmes.