Blog
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Sanwo-Olu wades in, vows 12-year-old boy with missing intestine will live
Lagos State Governor, Bababjide Sanwo-Olu, has assured the parents and concerned citizens over the case of a 12-year-old boy, Adebola Akin-Bright’s missing intestines at Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) Ikeja.
Sanwo-Olu, gave the assurance on Sunday, when he visited the victim with the parents in attendance at LASUTH, Ikeja.
The governor announced that the state government would take over all the expenses for the operation to ensure the boy’s life was saved.
Earlier, the management of LASUTH had absolved itself of the allegation that it was culpable in the case of the 12-year-old boy’s missing intestines.
Recall that the boy’s mother, Deborah Abiodun, had told journalists that her son’s small intestines were missing.
In a message to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, she begged him to, as a matter of urgency, probe the mysterious disappearance of her 12-year-old son, Adebola Akin-Bright’s small intestines, which she claimed occurred while he was receiving treatment at the LASUTH.
According to her, she was thrown into confusion when surgeons at LASUTH informed her that her son’s small intestines were missing after a corrective surgery was performed on him on July 14, 2023.
She added that her son was referred to LASUTH from a private hospital, Obitoks Medical Centre, located at Ile-epo in the Alimosho local government area of Lagos State on June 17, after complications from surgery to correct intestinal obstruction.
But management of LASUTH, subsequently, came out to affirm that they did not wilfully remove any organ or structure from Abiodun’s body while performing the corrective surgery.
The management stressed that the hospital is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, and highly knowledgeable, skilled and professional medical consultants who would never make such medical errors.
The statement reads; “Once again, the hospital management needs to clarify issues on the insinuations being made by a mother in a viral video that the alleged loss of her son’s intestines after surgery is a matter between a private hospital and LASUTH. Our hospital is an excellent tertiary institution with highly knowledgeable and skilled medical consultants.
“We are also equipped with state-of-the-art facilities. The patient in question was referred to our hospital after having two surgeries carried out in a private hospital.”
The management also noted that besides the surgery being carried out by an experienced paediatric surgeon and supported by her team of professionals, video clips of the surgery were available for further clarification and avoidance of doubts.
“He required extensive optimisation in our facility before a corrective surgery could be carried out. At the surgery, which was carried out by an experienced pediatric surgeon and her team certain strange findings were discovered. There is a video clip of these intraoperative findings. The mother was informed about these findings but she appeared to be in denial.
The hospital is in possession of a comprehensive report of the findings by a high-powered panel that it quickly set up to look into all ramifications of this case.
“Clearly, our hospital carried out a corrective surgery and did not wilfully remove any organ or structure. We empathise with the family of the patient. We believe that financial assistance from any quarters will be in order but we do not think that a blackmail of the state government via social media is the best approach.
“The hospital management is cooperating with the state agency which is already investigating this rather unfortunate case
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Rivers govt shuts AIT, Raypower’s operations
The Rivers State Government has shut down the operations of Africa Independent Television and Raypower FM in Port Harcourt.
According to a report on the media organisation’s website, the operations were shut down by telecommunications engineers contracted by the State Government who were accompanied by armed security operatives.
PUNCH also observed a live broadcast on the TV channel where the alleged contractors were seen disconnecting the wave guard from the antenna on the mast while riggers were seen dismantling the mast.
The statement reads, “Meanwhile, bulldozers were also deployed by the Rivers State Government to demolish the Transmitter Complex at the DAAR Communications PLC Broadcast Centre in Port Harcourt.
Management of the Company has been taken by surprise following the sudden turn of events as efforts were in top gear to resolve issues with the State Government amicably but the no notice incident is a heavy source of concern.
“Some officials of the telecommunications contractor told AIT that they were working on a directive from above to start demolition on Sunday despite the heavy rains as against a later date.”
PUNCH reported in March that the land on which the AIT/RayPower Radio station built its transmission station has been a subject of dispute between the state government and Daar Communications, Plc.
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Breastfeeding: NAFDAC tasks journalists on reporting violation of BMS Code
By Ahmed Kaigama
Bauchi: The National Agency for Food, Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has urged journalists to always report the continued violation of International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes (BMS) .
Mrs Josephine Dayilim, State Coordinator of NAFDAC in Bauchi, made the call at a one day orientation for Media practitioners and social media Influencers.
The meeting was on promotion and biannual meeting for reporting to amplify Maternal Infant and Young child Nutrition (MIYCN) activities, organised by Alive and Thrive FHI360.
Mrs Daliyam said the agency needed the support of journalists to monitor and report violators of national regulations by manufacturers of BMS products Code
She said NAFDAC would prosecute and ensure that violators were jailed for a period of two years and that such companies or individuals would forfeit the offending items on conviction.
She said the implementation of the Code was designed to protect, promote and support breastfeeding and prevent health caregivers from aggressive marketing of breast milk substitute by infant food manufacturers.
The coordinator noted that lack of awareness of stakeholders, including the media, had also contributed to the gravity of violations currently being practiced .
She then appealed to journalists to report such cases of violators and as well create awareness on the code of Marketing of Breast Milk Substitute,
On his Part, Mr Asimobi Chidi, state Focal Person Alive and Thrive FHI360, advised the public to desist from promotion of breast milk substitutes as food for infants less than six months and also go for local complimentary meals after six months.
He noted that BMS posed risk of not having breast milk’s protective qualities through the high risk of contamination that could lead to life-threatening infections in young infants.
He said the objective of the Food and Nutrition was to focus attention on the need to integrate actions to improve maternal, infant, and young child nutrition across the different stages
“Window of opportunity” from preconception through pregnancy, the period of exclusive breastfeeding (0 to 6 months) and the target age for complementary feeding 6 to 24 months.”
Dr Rilwanu Mohammed, Executive Secretary, Bauchi State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, noted that Ready to Use Therapeutic Food (RUTF) is not a sustainable approach in curbing the menace of malnutrition among infants and babies.
Mohammmed, represented by Mr Dahiru Mahmood, Director, Disease Control and Immunization of the healthcare agency, said the agency would engage communities on dangers of poor nutrition on human development.
He also urged the media to disseminate key messages using correct information to create awareness. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng) /Flowerbudnews
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Recall of ambassadors, bold move for diplomatic rebirth – Ex-NIDO president
By Fortune Abang
Abuja: Victor Ikoli, a former President of Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation (NIDO), Qatar chapter has described President Bola Tinubu’s recall of Nigerian envoys globally, including Qatar, a bold move for diplomatic rebirth.
Ikoli made this known in a telephone interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), on Sunday .
Tinubu had on Saturday recalled all Nigeria’s career and non-career ambassadors.
Ikoli, while commending development, however,
noted that said such could pose implications for Nigeria’s diplomatic position and relations with Qatar.
“While the decision to recall ambassadors may have its reasons and benefits, it is essential to consider the potential adverse impacts on ongoing diplomatic relations
“The decision by President Tinubu to recall all 97 Nigerian ambassadors from embassies and high commissions across the globe, including Qatar, undoubtedly carries significant implications for Nigeria’s diplomatic standing and its relations with Qatar.
“Former Ambassador of Nigeria to Qatar, Yakubu Ahmed’s two years tenure in Qatar facilitated the development of strong bilateral relations and paved the way for various opportunities,” he said.
According to him, one immediate concern is the potential disruption of these positive developments; the ambassador’s valuable experience and established relationships have been instrumental in advancing Nigeria-Qatar relations.
“With the upcoming Qatar Expo 2023 in October, the absence of a senior diplomatic representative from Nigeria could have adverse consequences.
“This event is not only an opportunity for economic and cultural exchange but also a moment where diplomatic representation is crucial,” he said.
He underscored the need for urgent steps to be taken to sustain the already cordial relationship enjoyed between Nigeria and Qatar, and avoid challenges the absence of senior diplomats often posed at foreign missions.
According to him, the recall could introduce uncertainty regarding the timeline for the appointment of a new ambassador.
“Diplomatic transitions can be complex and time-consuming, potentially leaving Nigeria without a senior diplomat in Qatar for an extended period.
“During this gap, Nigerian citizens and businesses may lack effective representation in Qatar, and the country’s interests could be at risk.
“Moreover, the proactive stance of Qatar in protecting its citizens and residents through diplomatic missions is well-known.
“Without a senior diplomat to speak for Nigerians, there might be challenges in addressing the needs and concerns of Nigerian expatriates in Qatar promptly,” he added.
He reiterated the need for proper management of the transition process and swift appointment of new ambassador, adding that such had become important to maintain and further Nigeria’s diplomatic interests in Qatar.
Earlier in a statement, Presidential spokesperson Ajuri Ngelale, said the recall was sequel to Tinubu’s review of the state of affairs at Nigerian Consulate Offices and Embassies worldwide.
According to him, Tinubu is determined to ensure international best practices characterised foreign and domestic service delivery to Nigerian citizens, residents and foreigners.
Nigeria’s Permanent Representatives to the United Nations in New York and Geneva were exempted from the recall, due to the upcoming United Nations General Assembly, to hold in September, 2023. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng / Flowerbudnews
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NYSC holds cultural carnival in A’Ibom to strengthen national unity
Isaiah Eka
Nsit Atai (Akwa Ibom): The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has organised its first-ever cultural carnival in Akwa Ibom to promote national unity and its diverse cultures and traditions.
The State Coordinator of NYSC, Mrs Chinyere Ekwe, disclosed this on Saturday during the ceremony at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Vamp in Nsit Atai Local Government Area for the 2023 Batch ‘B’ stream II corps members.
Ekwe said that the reason behind the carnival was to promote the oneness of Nigeria and bring the corps members together.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the colourful cultural carnival display by various platoons showcased multiple ethnic groups.
The coordinator said that the NYSC carnival coincided with the host community’s festival day, adding that it would avail the corp members an opportunity to familiarise themselves with the cultures of their host communities.
“NYSC scheme is a trailblazer in the promotion of the unity and integration of Nigeria and has been at the forefront of preserving our rich cultural heritage.
“Hence the introduction of the cultural carnival in the orientation course.
“Today’s event is also embellished with the Local Government Day Festival for the host communities to showcase their cultures.
“A clear understanding of the culture and traditions of the host communities where the corps members will be posted to serve is very important in ensuring a successful year.
“It is meant to remove prejudice, eliminate ignorance, and confirm at first hand the many similarities among Nigerians of all ethnic groups.
“My dear corps members, I wish to inform you that though our tradition may vary from one ethnic group to another, the operational norms and cultures are similar all over the state,” Ekwe said.
In her remarks, the Nsit Atai Local Government Council Chairman, Ms Emem Ibanga, commended NYSC for commencing the cultural carnival during the orientation course.
Ibanga said that the introduction of the cultural carnival for corps members would continue to promote national unity and integration among Nigerians from various ethnic backgrounds. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng) /Flowerbudnews
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Outrage as woman whips, cuffs children for playing football into her compound
An outrage erupted on social media following a video that showed a woman beating and cuffing three boys for playing a football into her compound.
In a video of the incident shared on X, formerly Twitter, the yet-to-be identified woman is seen whipping the underage boys and threatening to have them arrested.
Do you want me to have you arrested? Lie down and take your hand off,’ she ordered as one of the boys pleaded for mercy.
She then proceeded to have them sit in a puddle before being led away handcuffed.
According to an X user, John Donaldson, the incident happened in Sango Ota in Ogun State
These kids were said to be playing football and it inadvertently got kicked into this landlady’s compound at God Salvation Estate, behind Conoil, Sango-Ota. This woman was said to have accosted them, handcuffed them, beat them and forced them to sit in a pool of dirty water.”
Reacting, @Ukusedboy wrote, “Omo it will never be well with this woman are children and those who recorded this act… Haba
Flogging them with no remorse cos of football ⚽…”
@Gbenga4Glory: This is wickedness and I hope @PoliceNG will prosecute the Landlady 😭
@i_am_agbeke: Na wa o! She no born? Which kin wickedness be this?😢
@jagabanolu: Tomorrow we shall say the government is wicked… she shud be arrested they are just children for crying out loud.
It is, however, gathered that the woman has been arrested by the Ogun State police command.
It is, however, gathered that the woman has been arrested by the Ogun State police command.
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6 die in Osun road accident
The Federal Road Safety Corps ( FRSC ), Osun Command, said six persons lost their lives in an accident that occurred on Imesi- Ile highway.
The Sector Commander, Mr Henry Benamesia, said this in a statement by the command’s spokesperson, Mrs Agnes Ogungbemi, on Sunday in Osogbo.
Benamesia said two vehilces had head on collision on Saturday at about 9: 44 p.m. due to brake failure of one of them, resulting to the death of six persons .
He said that an articulated vehicle ( Red Daf ) without number plate, collided with another blue commercial truck on Imesi -Ile hill with casualties due to speeding .
” We have five dead victims taken to University Teaching Hospital in Osun (UNIOSUN) by the Nigeria Police before the arrival of FRSC team .
” The last dead victim was trapped under the truck and we were able to use extricate machine to remove the trapped body from one of the vehicles, ” Benamesia said.
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Fuel subsidy removal: Borno Rep member contracts 15 filling stations to sell petrol at N430/litre
Apparently perturbed by the increasing economic hardship associated with removal of fuel subsidy by the federal government and its attendant high prices of commodities, member representing Jere federal constituency in Borno state, Hon Ahmed Satomi has contracted 15 filling stations in Jere local government and Maiduguri metropolis to sell Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), a.k.a Petrol at the cost of N430 only per litre as his personal palliatives.
Recall that the current official price of petrol is sold between N630 to N637 per litre which have caused motorists and passengers huge economic burden for survival.
Addressing Journalists at the week end, the federal lawmaker who is also the Chairman House Committee on National Security and Intelligence at the national assembly, Hon Satomi said, the gesture which kick -started last Saturday 2nd September 2023 is a continuous process, as 100,000 litres were dispensed over the week end for motorists and residents irrespective of political affiliation.
On why he chose and directed his committee and the contracted filling stations such as G-Nile, some NNPC mega stations, Total, Bamus Oil among others to sale the product during the week end, the lawmaker said, this will quarantee not only motorists, but even civil servants have the opportunity in joining the queue to access the product at ease.
He however called on well-to-do individuals and organizations to emulate the gesture so as to impact positively on the living condition of all Nigerians, as according to Satomi, palliatives should not be carried out by government alone.
“Out of my little way to cushion the economic hardship, we have initiated palliatives for selling of petrol/PMS at subsized rate for our people which have started in phases.
“My committee led by Member Borno state House of Assembly, representing Jere Local Government, Hon. Abba Kolo Kyari has monitored the flagging off the exercise of 37,500 litres of petroleum products at the price of four hundred and thirty naira (N430) per litre against the government price of six hundred and thirty seven (637) to motorists and tricycles within the metropolis.
“Today, the committee will monitor the second phase of about 62,500 litres to be dispensed in some selected outlets and central filling stations such as Bamus oil-custom road, NNPC filling station-Damboa road, G- Nile filling station-Bulunkutu road and Mufimai Innami-Muna road respectively.
“This gesture will continue until we reach our target of 100,000 litres at subsidized rate for our people.
Likewise, i want to call on well-to-do individuals and organizations to emulate the gesture so as to impact positively on the living condition of all Nigerians, because palliatives should not be carried out by government alone.” Satomi stated.
He therefore urged motorists and interested members of the public to be law abiding and conduct themselves peacefully while accessing the products at the filling stations, as more of such palliatives would be provided.