Flowerbud News

Category: General News

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    The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), on Thursday, failed to call witness in support of its case in the petition by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its candidate in the Sept. 21, 2024 governorship election in Edo, Asue Ighodalo.

    INEC’s lawyer and former Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Kanu Agabi, SAN, told the Edo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Abuja that his client did not intend to call witness.

    The PDP and Ighodalo are challenging the outcome of the governorship poll in which INEC declared the All Progressives Congress (APC)’s candidate, Monday Okpebholo, as winner of the election.

    INEC had, on Wednesday, pledged to commence calling witnesses from Thursday after tendering documents, including results of the election, a certified true copy (CTC) of the declaration of the results as well as a copy of INEC’s Regulations and Guidelines for the conduct of elections.

    INEC’s lawyer, who appeared on Wednesday, Abdullahi Aliyu, SAN, had told the tribunal that his client planned to call five scheduled witnesses within five days as against the 10 days earlier allocated to it.

    Aliyu said most of the witnesses would be coming from Benin in Edo to testify before the tribunal.

    However, at the resumed sitting on Thursday, Agabi said the commission would not be calling witness.

    “My lords, after we left you yesterday (Wednesday), we gave more thought to the matter and came to the conclusion that the sensible thing to do is to close the case of the first respondent, which we hereby do.”

    Lawyer to the PDP and Ighodalo, Adetunji Oyeyipo, SAN, said he was not surprised about INEC’s decision not to call witnesses.

    Oyeyipo said: “Frankly speaking, we are not surprised and it is well within the right of the first respondent to show such a good discretion. We are not objecting.”

    Lawyers to Gov. Okpebholo and APC, Onyechi Ikpeazu, SAN, and Donald Dewigwe, SAN, said they were not oppose to INEC’s decision.

    Ikpeazu subsequently requested the court to allow his client open his case on Monday, a request the tribunal acceded to and adjourned till Monday.

    Assessing Thursday’s proceedings, a PDP chieftain and former ex-Commissioner for Digital Economy, Science and Technology in Edo State, Ogbeide Ifaluyi-Isibor, said INEC not calling witnesses means they could not defend the victory of Okpebholo.

    Ifaluyi-Isibor argued that INEC could not afford to call any witness because they knew they cannot fine anybody to defend what is not true.

    He added: “The PDP won the election with lawful majority votes, as we have consistently maintained.”

    Meanwhile, APC chieftain and former Deputy Governor of Edo State, Phillip Shuaibu argued that there was nothing unusual in INEC’s decision not to call any witness.

    Shuaibu said from his experience in election litigation, a party chooses his strategy and since INEC felt it was of no use calling any witness, that should not be construed to imply that it has no defence.

    “INEC has done what I expected it to do. It declared results and tendered the results yesterday. And that is all,” he said.

  • Group demands investigation into alleged unlawful arrest, detention of foreigner

    Group demands investigation into alleged unlawful arrest, detention of foreigner

    Flowerbudnews

    The Initiative Against Human Rights Abuse and Torture (INAHURAT) on Friday, called on the Inspector-General (I-G) of Police to order an investigation into allegations of unlawful arrest and detention of a foreigner, Mr Benjamin Rulisa.

    The Director, Legal Affairs of INAHURAT, Mr Maxwell Opara, made the call in a statement he signed and made available to newsmen in Abuja.

    Opara urged the I-G to immediately identify, investigate, and discipline all the officers involved in the act.

    “In light of the undeniable facts, the illegal actions of these officers, and the blatant disregard for human rights, we are calling on the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to order a comprehensive and independent investigation into this case, ensuring justice is served.

    “The Nigerian judiciary to ensure a fair and just trial, free from manipulation by the officers responsible for this violation.

    “The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) and international human rights bodies to take appropriate action to hold the perpetrators accountable and prevent future occurrences,” he said.

    The lawyer alleged that Rulisa, a Rwandan businessman, was allegedly detained and torture by officers of the Nigerian Police Force IGP Monitoring Unit and Intelligence Response Team (IRT).

    He alleged that his client, who deals in honey, was invited to Nigeria following a business acquaintance in March 2023 in Nairobi, Kanya.

    He said after he arrived in Nigeria, and while in his hotel room, he was allegedly arrested and taken away.

    He alleged that Rulisa was detained for about six months and subjected to inhuman treatment.

    He said though he was accused of defrauding someone, no formal complaint, evidence or proof was presented against him.

    “A Nigerian detainee, after hearing Mr Benjamin’s ordeal, took it upon himself to inform the authorities.

    “Upon his release, he wrote a petition to the I-G, exposing the illegal activities of the officers.

    “The IGP, upon being notified, ordered the Special Investigation Unit (SIU) to retrieve the case file and commence an independent investigation,” he said.

    The lawyer alleged that the SIU’s findings confirmed that Rulisa had been subjected to unlawful detention.

    “Realising that their misconduct had been uncovered, the said officers of IGP Monitoring Unit hastily filed baseless criminal charges against Mr Benjamin, containing no proof of evidence except statements from the same officers who tortured him.

    “This last-minute attempt to legitimise their abuse of power was simply a move to distract from their illegal activities and avoid consequences,” Opara said.

  • TMV hails World Bank report on 32m beneficiaries of FG’s Cash Transfer programme.

    TMV hails World Bank report on 32m beneficiaries of FG’s Cash Transfer programme.

     

    By Danladi Ahmed
    The Tinubu Media Volunteers (TMV) has highlighted and applauded the astronomical rise in the number of Nigerians benefitting from the federal government cash transfer programme.

    This was after it emerged from a World Bank report that the number of beneficiaries had increased from 30.35 million in January 2024 to 32.21 million in January 2025.

    In a statement signed by its Chairman Chukwudi Enekwechi and Secretary Shedrach Sunday, the group noted that the implication for the poverty alleviation programme of the Bola Tinubu administration is great.

    It said: “The implication is that more poor and vulnerable Nigerians are now benefitting from the federal government’s cash transfer programme, thereby reducing poverty and ameliorating the adverse effects of fuel subsidy removal, rising costs of food items as well as inflation.

    “In reality, the number of Nigerians who have benefitted from the programme between June 2024 and January 2025 stands at 1.86 million beneficiaries.

    “We note that these statistics emanate from a verifiable source as the World Bank Implementation Status and Result Report on the federal government’s cash transfer programme released on January 29 2025.

    “It is gratifying from the available information that women have benefitted more from the programme, and expectedly, this is impacting positively on poor households and the vulnerable groups in the country.

    “We also acknowledge that as a way of ensuring transparency in the cash transfer programme, all transfers are digitally processed using the National Identification Numbers (NIN) or Bank Verification Numbers (BVN).

    “For us, this approach will go a long way to eliminating any element of fraud and abuse, thereby guaranteeing that the targeted beneficiaries are reached.

    “We have no doubt that at the rate the programme is being implemented by the federal government, a threshold of about 56 million beneficiaries will be attained by December 2025.

    “In our view, the programme will continue to play a pivotal role as a social safety net towards reducing poverty in the country and improving the economic condition of the poor and vulnerable among us.”

    The group is convinced that the cash transfer programme will greatly reduce poverty in Nigeria and added that its diligent implementation will serve as proof of the gradual realization of the Tinubu administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

    End

  • We will mobilise massively for Tinubu in 2027 in the FCT – Group

    We will mobilise massively for Tinubu in 2027 in the FCT – Group

     

    By Iyiola Olalere

    The ReNewed Hope, ReNewed Patience Group has declared its readiness to mobilise heavily for President Bola Tinubu’s re-election in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in 2027.

    In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Citizen Tom Obulu, the group said it plans to rally support for the President on the basis of policies and programmes introduced by the administration since assuming office.

    It said: Having witnessed the capacity of the Tinubu administration in the past 18 months across all sectors, the Renewed Hope, Renewed Patience Group intends to rally support in the FCT for the President’s second term in office.

    “We have the strength and the terrestrial capability to drive the populace of the FCT to vote for President Tinubu and we shall be mobilizing votes on the basis of his achievements such as full autonomy for local government, students loans with 192,906 beneficiaries activate country as well as the CNG initiative that has provided alternative to fuel amongst others.

    “The new national minimum wage, Consumer Credit Scheme and Tax reforms are also pointers to the benefits the Tinubu administration is introducing to the society.”

    The group added that it plans to mobilise first time eligible voter while warning FCT residents to be wary of the antics of those it described as failed politicians.

     

  • Obasanjo’s ADC slumps and d!es at IBB Golf Club

    Obasanjo’s ADC slumps and d!es at IBB Golf Club

     

    Flowerbudnews

    Former Aide-de-Camp (ADC) to ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo, Major General Christopher Jemitola on Thursday slumped at the IBB Golf Course in Abuja and d!ed

    Sources close to his family confirmed that he was quickly rushed to the hospital but was declared de.ad upon arrival.

    The late General was at several times, the Corp Commander Nigerian Army Signals, Nigeria’s Defence Adviser to Brazil and Director of Army Public Relations.

    Jemitola who hailed from Ososo in Akoko Edo Local government area of Edo State served as Obasanjo’s ADC from 2003 to 2007 while he was still a colonel.

    He later became the Chief of Policy and Plans (COPP) in the Nigerian Army before his retirement.

  • NAPTIP Intercepts 21 Children, Blocks Human Trafficking in Niger

    NAPTIP Intercepts 21 Children, Blocks Human Trafficking in Niger

     

    The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) successfully intercepted and repatriated 21 children, aged between 7 and 15 years, on Wednesday, before they could be trafficked to neighboring countries.

    This intervention follows a recent call by the Niger state government to remain vigilant against criminal groups exploiting religion to commit human rights abuses, particularly involving minors.

    Speaking at a press briefing in Minna, the Deputy Governor of Niger State, Comrade Yakubu, revealed that some individuals from the state’s Magama Local Government Area were behind the trafficking attempt.

    He condemned their actions, noting the state’s ongoing struggle with Boko Haram insurgents and armed bandits, emphasizing the government’s commitment to curb all forms of child trafficking.

    Yakubu urged greater cooperation among key stakeholders to address this pressing issue and reaffirmed the state administration’s resolve under Governor Umar Bago’s leadership.

    He also commended NAPTIP for its swift action and called on traditional rulers, religious leaders, and community members to stay alert and prevent exploitation disguised under religious motives.

    Meanwhile, Mallam Jamilu Usman, a school headmaster, disclosed that two of his children, aged 9 and 13, were among those intercepted.

    However, Usman, who failed to explain the destination or purpose of the children’s journey, revealed that he had agreed to pay a monthly fee of 35,000 for their upkeep. His involvement in the scheme remains unclear.

  • Tinubu sacks UniAbuja VC, announces changes at other Federal Universities 

    Tinubu sacks UniAbuja VC, announces changes at other Federal Universities 

     

    By Flowerbudnews

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has sackedb the Vice Chancellor of the University of Abuja, now known as Yakubu Gowon University, Prof. Aisha Sani Maikudi being part of leadership changes at several federal universities.

    The changes were effective immediately, a statement signed by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President  (Information & Strategy), declared.

    At Yakubu Gowon University, President Tinubu dissolved the entire governing council and relieved Professor Aisha Sani Maikudi of her duties as Vice-Chancellor.

    Senator Lanre Tejuoso, currently Pro-Chancellor of the University of Agriculture, Makurdi, has been appointed Pro-Chancellor of the Yakubu Gowon University. He will be succeeded in Makurdi by Senator Joy Emordi, now pro-chancellor of Alvan Ikoku University of Education.

    To succeed Maikudi, President Tinubu appointed Professor Lar Patricia Manko as Acting Vice Chancellor at the Yakubu Gowon University for a six-month term. She will not be eligible to apply for the substantive Vice Chancellor position when it becomes available.

    In addition, President Tinubu has removed Professor Polycarp Emeka Chigbu from his position as Acting Vice-Chancellor at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), before his tenure ends on February 14.

    Professor Oguejiofu T. Ujam has been appointed as his successor for six months and will not be eligible to apply for the permanent position.

    The leadership changes at UNN extend to the role of Pro-Chancellor, with Gen. Ike Nwachukwu reassigned to Pro-Chancellor at the University of Uyo. President Tinubu appointed Engineer Olubunmi Kayode Ojo as the new Pro-Chancellor of UNN. Previously, Ojo held the same position at the Federal University of Lokoja and the Federal University of Oye-Ekiti.

    Professor Zubairu Tajo Abdullahi, currently the Pro-Chancellor of the University of Uyo, has been appointed to succeed Ojo at the Federal University of Lokoja.

    Senator Sani Stores is the new Pro-Chancellor of Alvan Ikoku University of Education, succeeding Senator Joy Emordi. Senator Stores is a Council Member at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.

    Additionally, Barrister Olugbenga Kukoyi, a current Council Member at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, has been appointed the new Pro-Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University in Awka, Anambra State.

    All appointments and reassignment decisions are effective immediately.

    President Tinubu emphasised that these changes reflect his administration’s commitment to revitalising Nigeria’s higher education system through dynamic leadership and accountability.

    The restructuring aims to strengthen governance and academic excellence within Nigeria’s tertiary education sector.

  • Reps Back NAFDAC; Recommend Life Jail for Fake drug producers, importers

    Reps Back NAFDAC; Recommend Life Jail for Fake drug producers, importers

     

    — “The House is aware that NAFDAC recently seized counterfeit food and pharmaceutical products worth over ₦5 billion in a raid at the Cemetery Market in Aba, Abia State, highlighting the widespread nature of this menace.”

    (NAFDAC DG, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye)

     

    By Flowerbudnews

    Abuja:  The House of Representatives has urged the Attorney General of the Federation to propose harsher sanctions, including life imprisonment, for producers and importers of fake drugs into the country.

    The resolution followed the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance, sponsored by All Progressives Congress lawmaker Tolani Shagaya, and read on the floor during Thursday’s plenary.

    Highlighting the importance of the motion, Shagaya expressed concern over the alarming increase in the production, importation, and distribution of fake and substandard goods, drugs, food, and beverages across Nigeria.

    According to him, this development poses significant threats to public health, national security, and the economic stability of the nation.

    He added that the World Health Organisation and the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control have repeatedly warned that Nigeria is one of the most affected countries in the world by counterfeit medicines, contributing to thousands of avoidable deaths annually.

    He said, “The House is aware that NAFDAC recently seized counterfeit food and pharmaceutical products worth over ₦5 billion in a raid at the Cemetery Market in Aba, Abia State, highlighting the widespread nature of this menace.”

    “The House is concerned that Nigeria suffers economic losses of approximately ₦15 trillion annually due to counterfeit and substandard goods, as reported by the Standards Organization of Nigeria. The unchecked proliferation of fake products not only jeopardises consumer safety but also discourages genuine investment in the food and pharmaceutical industries.”

    “The House is further concerned that despite existing regulations, weak enforcement mechanisms, corruption, and the absence of stringent penalties for offenders have emboldened perpetrators to continue endangering public health.”

    “We recognise that the current legal framework does not provide sufficient deterrence, as offenders often return to the illicit trade due to lenient fines and bailable sentences, allowing them to operate with impunity.”

    He further added that a national state of emergency is necessary to intensify enforcement efforts, strengthen regulatory institutions, and impose stricter sanctions on perpetrators.

    Following overwhelming support for the motion by lawmakers, the House urged the Attorney General of the Federation to propose amendments to existing laws with a view to imposing stricter penalties. These include “life imprisonment for those involved in the production and importation of fake drugs and significant fines for businesses found guilty of dealing in counterfeit goods.”

    The House also urged the Federal Government to strengthen the capacity of regulatory agencies, particularly NAFDAC, SON, and the Nigerian Customs Service, by providing adequate funding, modern equipment, and advanced technology for effective surveillance, detection, and enforcement.

    It further urged the Federal Government to establish a special task force comprising security agencies, regulatory bodies, and the judiciary to fast-track investigations and prosecutions of individuals and businesses involved in counterfeiting.

    The House also directed its Committees on Health, Commerce, and Industry to conduct a comprehensive probe into the prevalence of counterfeit products and propose legislative measures to address regulatory gaps.

  • Bandits allegedly abduct ex-NYSC D-G. Gen. Tsiga, others

    Bandits allegedly abduct ex-NYSC D-G. Gen. Tsiga, others

     

    By  Zubairu Idris

    Katsina:  Bandits have reportedly attacked Tsiga town in Bakori Local Government Area of Katsina State, where they were said to have abducted an unspecified number of people including the former NYSC Director-General, retired Brig.-Gen. Maharazu Tsiga.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) learnt from some reliable sources that the incident occurred around 12 a.m., on Thursday.

    They said that the bandits, in their numbers, went with dangerous weapons, shooting and forcefully gained access to Tsiga’s residence.

    The sources also revealed that one bandit was killed, but no one was killed from the residents of the area during the attack.

    When contacted, the police spokesperson, DSP Abubakar Aliyu, told NAN: ” I am yet to be briefed on the facts of the reports. I’ll get back to you as soon as I get the details please.

    ” Yes, there was a reported case of abduction in Tsiga town but we are yet to fully ascertain who and who was kidnapped.” (NAN)