Author: Our Correspondent

Lucy Omakpo

Last week, the Project Manager of the ongoing Lagos-Opebi-Mende roads project, Julius Berger’s Dymitry Denysenko declared that, with the near-completion of the ongoing Lagos-Opebi-Mainland Roads and Bridges project, there is no gain-saying the fact that Julius Berger looks set to deliver lasting solutions to the notorious Lagos Traffic congestion.

Stating that work at the project site is steadily progressing to an end, he added that, though  we continue to navigate complex engineering challenges to deliver a lasting solution to Lagos’ traffic congestion, the planned May 2025 deadline for handover to our client remains sacrosanct.

He further said that every milestone that has been constructed on the project takes Lagos  closer to transforming mobility within the Ikeja-Ojota corridor, adding that, once completed, the vital infrastructure will not only ease commuter stress but also enhance connectivity, drive economic activity, and improve the overall transport experience in Lagos.

The Lagos-Opebi-Mende Road project is one of the many projects being undertaken by leading engineering construction company, Julius Berger Nigeria PLC. across the country with each designed to solve particularly peculiar problem in the operational areas. But by its many peculiarities, the State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu chose to tag the Lagos-Opebi-Mende Road and link bridge as one of his legacy projects.

Currently, Julius Berger is rounding up its work at the site with unwavering resolve to deliver a bridge and road network that supports the continued progress of Lagos State and needed respite to commuters in the region.

The scope of the contract agreed upon in 2022 included the reconstruction of Opebi Road, construction of Odo Alaro Bridge, construction of Odo Alaro Underpass 1, construction of Odo Alaro Underpass 2, construction of deck on pile link bridges, and reconstruction of Maryland U-turn.

Giving an update on the state of the project, the Project Manager said, reconstruction of Opebi Road is 100% completed, construction of Odo Alaro Bridge, 100% completed, construction of Odo Alaro Underpass 1 completed, construction of Odo Alaro Underpass 2 almost completed, construction of deck on pile link bridges completed, and reconstruction of Maryland U-turn is 100% completed.

With an agreed road length of 4.52km, Pile depth of 40m, Bored piles numbering 1500 and a Bridge structure of 640m in length, Lagos state government reasoned that an iconic project as the Opebi-Mende link Bridge and approach roads would no doubt help to address the recurrent traffic and transportation hiccups on that axis of the state.

The state government was to summarise it all thus: ‘It is a known fact that the people are the ultimate beneficiaries of development projects like this. As promised, the State Government led by Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu will continue to take concrete steps toward ensuring the delivery of the dividends of democracy to our people. Evidently, this particular project, like many that have been executed across sectors, will add on as a good example of making life more abundant for the governed.

Another project being handled by the company in Lagos is the reconstruction of Idumagbo Avenue, Adeniji Adele, Ojo Giwa, Oroyinyin, Okoya, Moshalashi and Iga-Iduganran Streets in Lagos Island Local Government Area, a part of the state where daily vehicular traffic had posed serious threat to the flow of goods, services and commerce.

According to the state governor, the reconstruction projects in such locked spaces as the Local Government Area is to assist to provide conducive business environment and promote equal opportunities for the people to actualize their full potentials.

According to the Regional Manager, Technical, Region West, Christl Thomas, we build and rebuild road infrastructures to the taste of our clients. Look at what we have started doing at Idumagbo. It signposts what the outcome will be eventually; we

By Gabriel Udeh

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Thursday, June 27, 2025, opposed an application filed by former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Adoza Bello, seeking leave of court to travel abroad for medical treatment.

The application was presented before Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court, Maitama, Abuja, during the resumed hearing of Bello’s alleged ₦80.2 billion money laundering trial. His counsel, J.B. Daudu, SAN, urged the court to consider the defendant’s health condition as paramount and to grant him permission to travel.

Daudu informed the court that the application was brought pursuant to Section 173(2)(a) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) and under the court’s inherent jurisdiction.  He said the application was backed by a 22-paragraph affidavit deposed to by the defendant himself, including annexures such as a medical report and a letter from a consultant cardiologist.

He further argued that Bello had not travelled outside Nigeria in over eight years and now required urgent medical attention which, according to him, cannot be provided even in the hospital he built. “The subject of this application is the release of his passport, which was surrendered as part of his bail conditions. What should be considered is not whether there are alternatives in Nigeria but whether the defendant poses a flight risk,” he said.

 He also claimed that the defendant has no criminal record abroad and may not pose a flight risk.  “He has no criminal record in those countries. The defendant is not a flight risk and will return before the end of August. My lord can even specify a return date,” he said.

However, prosecuting counsel, Kemi Pinheiro, SAN, strongly objected to the application, describing it as an abuse of court process. He argued that Bello had previously filed similar applications before another court, the current court and the FCT High Court, seeking the same relief, which he said was improper and confusing.

Pinheiro advanced five main reasons the application should be denied. First, he said the motion was “technically incompetent” as the sureties to Bello’s bail were not informed or included in the application, thereby raising questions about their liability if the defendant fails to return.

He also emphasized that the case involved money laundering, and money laundering is international in nature, referencing charges related to properties in Dubai and funds in bank accounts in the US and UK. “The defendant is already under a red notice and international alert. He risks being arrested abroad and extradited. He could be ‘Hushpuppied’ from Dubai,” Pinheiro warned, alluding to a known cybercrime case.

The prosecution further discredited the medical report submitted by the defence, noting that the doctor who signed it failed to indicate his qualifications or specialization.  He argued that the health concerns mentioned, such as low potassium and mild hypertension, could be managed locally. “He says he has low potassium; bananas and pawpaw will handle that. This is not sufficient reason to fly to the UK,” he said.

He also pointed out the irony that Bello had boasted during his tenure of building an ultra-modern hospital in Kogi State. “From Abuja to Lokoja is two hours. I advise him to visit that hospital rather than take a six-hour flight abroad,” he said.

In his reply on points of law, Daudu insisted that the sureties were not required to be parties to the motion and argued that the red notice previously issued by EFCC had lapsed following Bello’s arraignment in Nigeria. He urged the court to exercise its discretion in favour of the defendant.

Meanwhile, earlier in the proceedings, cross-examination of Prosecution Witness 4, PW4, Aryan Mashelia Bata, a Compliance Officer with Zenith Bank Plc, continued. The defence questioned his jurisdiction over several of the bank accounts admitted as exhibits, many of which were outside the branches under his direct supervision.

Clarifying an earlier issue raised by the prosecution, PW4 told the court that he wished to place it on record that he was not harassed by Yahaya Bello’s security team, but rather experienced difficulty in finding a seat while in court. “I want it on record that the incident happened while I was trying to get a seat. I later got one and I have no issue with anyone,” he said.

Following all submissions, Justice Emeka Nwite adjourned the matter to July 3 and 4, 2025, for continuation of trial and fixed July 21, 2025, for ruling on the defendant’s application to travel abroad.

Dele Oyewale

Head, Media & Publicity

June 27, 2025

By Ogenyi Ogenyi, Uyo

Mrs. Aniekan Essienette, FNIMN, Group Manager, Marketing and Communications at Ibom Air, Mrs Aniekan Essienette has been elected first Chairman of the National Institute of Marketing of Nigeria (NIMN), Uyo Chapter.

Essienette’s election which would be for a two year tenure was a key highlight of the 2025 Annual Marketing Conference & General Meeting (AMC/AGM) of the institute, and the formal inauguration of the Uyo Chapter, held in Uyo.

Other members of the newly inaugurated executive council include: Dr. Samuel Etuk as Vice Chairman, Dr. Ini Udoh as Secretary, Dr. Orok Imagha as Assistant Secretary, Mr. Aniekan Inwang as Financial Secretary, Dr. (Mrs.) Emem Akaninyene Sampson as Treasurer, Dr. Aniefiok Akpan as Welfare Officer, and Mr. Uwem Okon as Public Relations Officer (PRO).

In her acceptance speech, the new chairman expressed heartfelt appreciation to the President and members of the Council for their unwavering support in establishing the Uyo Chapter.

“I would like to express my heartfelt appreciation to the President and members of the Council for their unwavering support in establishing the Uyo Chapter.” She said.

Essienette pledged to uphold the tenets of the marketing profession, promote ethical leadership, and work collaboratively to position the chapter as a vibrant hub for excellence and innovation.

“We pledge to uphold the tenets of the marketing profession, promote ethical leadership, and work collaboratively to position the chapter as a vibrant hub for excellence and innovation.” She assured.

Earlier, the NIMN National President and Chairman of Council, Mr. Idoreyen Enang who presided over the ceremony commended the inauguration committee for their efforts and celebrated the establishment of the Uyo Chapter as a fulfilled aspiration under his leadership.

He expressed optimism that the Uyo Chapter’s establishment would promote professionalism and excellence in marketing practice in Akwa Ibom and provide a platform for marketing professionals to network, share knowledge, and advance their skills.

“The establishment of the Uyo Chapter is a significant step in the growth and development of NIMN, and is expected to have a positive impact on the marketing profession in the state”. He said

He therefore advised leadership and members of the new chapter to demonstrate commitment and dedication. He also called for support of stakeholders in the marketing industry. “With the right leadership and support, the Uyo Chapter is poised to make a significant impact in the marketing profession in Akwa Ibom State”. He said

Our correspondent reports that the 2025 conference of NIMN explored the theme “Leveraging Environmental Social Governance (ESG) in Driving Value Across Generations”.

….Minister Jisalo Congratulates Maikalangu, Urges Support for Party Flagbearer

The Executive Chairman of Abuja Municipal Area Council, Hon. Christopher Zakka Maikalangu, has emerged victorious in the APC primaries for the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) chairmanship election, securing 51 votes. This win solidifies his position as the party’s standard flag bearer for the upcoming 2026 general election.

A statememt signed by Kingsley Madaki, Senior Special Assistant on Media and Public Affairs to the Executive Chairman AMAC, the AMAC Electoral Committee Chairman, Dr. Habib Ibrahim, announced the result, urging all aspirants to accept the outcome and support the winner in good faith. Notably, some prominent candidates stepped down in favor of Maikalangu, demonstrating the confidence and trust party members have in his leadership abilities.

The Minister of Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs, Hon. Zephaniah Jisalo, who is also the leader of APC in FCT, congratulated Hon. Christopher Zakka Maikalangu on his victory in the APC primaries.

Jisalo urged all aspirants and parties involved to accept the outcome of the primary election and support Maikalangu as the party’s flag bearer.

Maikalangu in his reaction, thanks party delegates for their votes and support, while calling on other aspirants who contested with him shew their sword and join hand with him to work together for overall interest of the party and AMAC communities.
As the incumbent Chairman of AMAC, Maikalangu has implemented numerous developmental projects, enhancing infrastructure, healthcare, and education within the council area. His commitment to the welfare of AMAC residents likely contributed to his success in the primaries.

Maikalangu’s strategic defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) earlier this year has paid off, as he has now won the APC ticket for the chairmanship election. This move was seen as an effort to align AMAC with the federal government, potentially unlocking more opportunities for development.

With this win, Maikalangu is poised to continue his tenure as AMAC Chairman, building on the progress he has made so far. His victory is expected to strengthen the APC’s hold on the FCT, and he will likely focus on delivering more projects and services to the people of AMAC.

As Maikalangu prepares for the general election, he will likely focus on consolidating support from residents and further showcasing his vision for AMAC’s development. With his track record and the trust of party members, he is well-positioned to lead the council towards greater progress and prosperity.

By Mike Odiakose

The Pioneer National Woman Leader of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Life Member of the party’s Board of Trustees (BOT), has debunked speculations that she has tacitly endorsed the joint ticket of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the forthcoming governorship election in Anambra State.

A video of her presence in a gathering organized by the Anambra APC Guber running mate, Senator Uche Ekwunife, went viral on Tuesday with some people reporting that she has endorsed the APC ticket.

In a statement by Dr. Obumneme Nnoli, State Publicity Secretary
PDP, Anambra State Chapter, the party Spokesperson explained that Iyom Josephine Anenih remains a steadfast and loyal member of the PDP and that her attendance at the said event was in furtherance of her lifelong advocacy for increased women participation in politics and governance, not a political endorsement or defection to any party.

Part of the statement reads: “The attention of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Anambra State Chapter has been drawn to a misleading and mischievously edited video currently trending on social media, which attempts to misrepresent the presence and speech of our revered leader, Iyom Josephine Anenih, Esq., mni, FNIM, at a women’s gathering convened by Senator Uche Ekwunife in Awka on Sunday, 22nd June 2025.

“For the avoidance of doubt, Iyom Josephine Anenih, a trailblazer in Nigerian politics, the Pioneer National Woman Leader of our great party and Life Member of the PDP Board of Trustees (BOT), remains a steadfast and loyal leader of the Peoples Democratic Party.

“Her attendance at the said event was in furtherance of her lifelong advocacy for increased women participation in politics and governance, not a political endorsement or defection to any party.

“The event, which was ostensibly themed around ‘Women Inclusion in Politics,’ was unfortunately manipulated by certain political interests to give the false impression that Iyom Anenih had endorsed a political party other than the PDP. This is completely untrue, and such narratives are both unethical and insulting to her person and legacy.

“At the event, Iyom Anenih delivered a passionate speech rooted in her decades-long commitment to advancing the role of women in public service. She reminded women that “we are not begging to be included—we are asserting our right to be present.” She challenged women to start where they are, organize, support one another, and boldly demand their space in politics.

“At no point did she deviate from her long-held convictions or endorse any political agenda outside of her well-documented mission for women empowerment.

“As a party, we maintain our respect for Iyom Anenih and respect her for the contributions to the growth of democracy. Her role in the PDP, especially in Anambra State, cannot be diminished by political propaganda.

“We call on the general public, our supporters, and members of the PDP family to disregard the misleading video making the rounds.

“We also urge political actors to refrain from dragging respected elders into partisan misrepresentations for selfish gains.

“Iyom Josephine Anenih is PDP. She remains our mother, our leader, and a champion of democratic values.”
End

By Ogenyi OgenyiUyo

Akwa Ibom State Government has announced plans for the employment of 3,000 new workers into the state Civil Service.

State Head of Civil Service Mr Effiong Essien made this known yesterday in Uyo at a Media Parley to unfold the lined-up of activities for the celebration of the 2025 Public Service Week in the State.

Essien said, the recruitment of new hands into government employ became necessary to fill the shortfall in the numerical strength of Workers realized during the recently concluded Staff verification exercise ìn the State.

The Head of Civil Service disclosed that, the 3000 workers to be employed would be distributed to fill vacancies in the Mainstream Civil Service, the Teaching Service and the Health sector with 1000 going into each of the listed Service areas.

He applauded Eno for approving the 2025 Public Service Week Celebration in the State barely a year after, on breaking the jinx in 2024, since the last celebration of the event a decade ago.

Easier said the Governor has been supportive to workers in the areas pf procurement of sophisticated SUVs and Capacity building for Permanent Secretaries and Directors in the State by the prestigious Administrative Staff College of Nigeria, ASCON, provision of 150 Housing Estates for Workers at the Grace Estate,
registration of 8000 Workers into the ARISE Health Insurance Scheme and the Reward of hardworking staff in all MDAs with the sum of N1M each.

Others include: release of 2024 Promotions to workers and payment of entitlements, payment of pensions and gratuities to pensioners, payment of Wardrobe allowance to Teachers, approval of Special Promotion to outstanding workers and provision of Enomber 13th month’s largesse to Civil Servants in the State, among others.

He listed the planned activities for the 2025 Public Service Week to include: a Public Lecture a Novelty Football Match, A Roadwalk on Saturday and a Thanksgiving Service on Sunday,

Chairman, Planning Committee and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Mrs. Grace Akpan had said, this year’s celebration is unique because it has been extended to include: workers in the Unified Local Government Service and those in the Federal Government employ.

Akpan said the celebration of the Public Service Week is a means of expressing a sense of Value and Worth to workers in the State emphasizing that this exercise will give workers a sense of belonging in government

Chairman of the State Council of NUJ, Comrade Amos Etuk pledged continous partnership and support by the Press to the Office of the Head of Civil Service and assured that, all activities lined up for the weeklong event would receive effective publicity by the Press.

Amgbare Ekaunkumo, Yenagoa 

Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has ordered security forces to secure the unharmed release of Justice Ebieyerin Omukoro, a high court judge abducted by gunmen in Yenagoa on Saturday.

Addressing Sagbama residents during his local government thank-you tour on Monday, Diri cautioned criminals and their backers, emphasizing the state’s advanced security measures, including CCTV cameras that captured the kidnappers. 

He assured that investigations would expose those responsible.

“I summoned security commanders immediately after the judge’s kidnapping and directed them to ensure her safe return,” Diri stated.

 “Criminals must know our CCTV systems are active, and there’s no hiding.”

Diri thanked Sagbama for their steadfast support for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the November 11, 2023 governorship election, which secured his re-election.

 He urged Sagbama and Ekeremor in Bayelsa West senatorial district to maintain peace and unity.

Deputy Governor Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo hailed Sagbama as the PDP’s heartland, crediting their massive votes—termed ‘Kano votes’—in the 2019 and 2023 elections. 

He lauded former governor and Senator Seriake Dickson for choosing Diri and thanked Sagbama for backing the Prosperity Government.

Lawmakers, including Dr. Frederick Agbedi (Sagbama/Ekeremor Federal Constituency), Dr. Godbless Oyinke (Sagbama Constituency 1), Lt. Col. Bernard Kenebai (rtd) (Constituency 2), and Hon. Ebizi Ndiomu-Brown (Constituency 3), praised Diri for infrastructure progress, notably the Sagbama-Ekeremor road. 

They appealed for action on the stalled Abuetor-Elemebiri-Asamabiri road project.

At the palace of the Pere of Kumbowei Kingdom, King Boloyi Sufadoh, Diri and Ewhrudjakpo were honored with walking sticks, hats, and Holy Bibles.

By Muhammad Ibrahim, Sokoto 

A resident of Gidan Igwai area in Sokoto,Aminu was arrested for stealing aluminum conductor wires belonging to the Kaduna Electricity Distribution Company (KEDCO).

 Umar was caught on June 20, 2025, around 7:00 a.m. along Ummaruma Achida with two rolls of stolen wires.

 Umar confessed to receiving ₦5,000 from Usman Yahaya, a resident of Makera Asada area, to supply the stolen wires. Yahaya has previously been charged in court for similar offenses.

The suspects will be arraigned in court upon completion of the investigation.

The statement by the Police Public Relations Officer DSP Ahmad Rufa’i said the Commissioner of Police, Sokoto Command, urges residents to report suspicious activities and individuals to aid in curbing vandalism.