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COVID-19: Lagos Govt places restriction order on churches and mosques, Bans carnivals
The Lagos State government has asked churches, mosques, and other places of worship to enforce the existing COVID-19 protocols amid the rising cases reported recently in the state.
It asked them to ensure all gatherings must not exceed two hours with attendance not more than 50 per cent of the maximum capacity of the venue.
The state governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, issued the directives in a statement personally signed by him on Friday.
He also declared that concerts, carnivals and street parties have banned in all parts of the state until further notice.
According to the governor, night clubs have not been allowed to open yet and all night clubs in the state should be shut down indefinitely with immediate effect.
He explained that the directives became important as all local governments in Lagos have begun to record an increase in COVID-19 cases.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, however, noted that the situation was not peculiar to Lagos alone, noting that the entire country was also seeing a rise in the numbers of confirmed cases of COVID-19.
“Of every 100 tests that we now perform, an average of 10 turn out to be positive. This is an increase from the five per hundred recorded in September, but lower than our peak in August which was between 20 and 30 per hundred.
“This suggests the existence of active community transmission and represents the very likely possibility of the emergence of the second wave in Lagos State,” he said.
The governor added, “This second wave calls for a full re-awakening of caution and precaution. The complacency that crept in over the last few months as a result of our early interventions when cases started to decline from our peak in August, must now give way to an abundance of vigilance.”
As part of public health directives, he ordered the closure of all public and private schools in Lagos indefinitely and asked all public servants from Grade Level 14 and below to work from home for the next 14 days starting from Monday next week – in the first instance.
While Governor Sanwo-Olu noted that emergency workers and first responders were exempted, he stated that the 12am to 4am curfew imposed by the Federal Government remained in place.
He also directed that guests and service providers at any event with high temperature (above 37.5 degrees) should be politely turned back and referred to paramedics or the emergency response team.
December 19, 2020
FCTA to set up mobile courts to enforce strict COVID-19 protocols guidelines
By Joyce Remi-Babayeju
As a way of checkmating the second wave of COVID-19 pandemic in the capital city, the FCT Minister Mallam Muhammad Musa Bello has said that the FCTA is embarking on a rigorous enforcement of health and safety protocols to stop the spread of the disease in the FCT.
Bello disclosed this today at a press briefing on the second wave of COVID-19 in the Territory.
He said that the enforcement team will set up third activities and return to the streets of the FCT working very closely with the judiciary through the mobile courts system under existing laws.
The minister said that the fight against the virus in the FCT had been mostly effective as had been attested to by stakeholders including members of the National Assembly, the Presidential Task force on Covid-19 and members of the public.
He explained that the FCT had maintained a high testing ratio and recorded relatively few mortalities.
He however lamented the rising number of positive cases in the Territory which he said were unacceptably high adding that this was mainly because residents of the Territory had ceased to comply with recommended health guidelines put in place to curb the spread of the virus.
He said, “our recorded figures over the last 3 weeks have been unacceptably high and there is an urgent need to contain it as much and as fast as possible.”
The minister also disclosed that the Administration will re-enforce its communication and public enlightenment strategies that will involve the active participation of local youth groups and non-governmental organisations adding that “ it is our intention that they drive these campaign processes to reach the nooks and crannies of the Territory”
He urged residents of the Territory to play their roles if the FCT is to overcome the second wave of the pandemic.
He advised residents of the Territory not to be carried away by the euphoria of the festive season and let down their guard against the virus which he said had not lost its potency or capacity to make the afflicted very ill.
The Minister also revealed guidelines to curb the spread of the virus which are based on resolutions reached during a stakeholders meeting held earlier in the week, the Public Health Advisory of the NCDC, and the Federal Executive council meeting
The guidelines as released are that The Abuja Market Management Limited and the various market associations should work together to carry out sensitization activities and also ensure compliance of all extant health protocols.
All extant regulations issued as conditions for re-opening of places of worship on the 4th of June 2020 still subsists and heads of the various congregations are to ensure compliance.
All extant regulations guiding the operations of entertainment and recreational centers still subsists and operators of such places are enjoined to ensure strict compliance.
Public transportation facilities such as buses taxis and tricycles must also obey all already established protocols.
Other COVID -19 guidelines in offices and business premises are;
Mandatory temperature checks must be carried out on all employees and customers entering office and business premises in the FCT
No mask, No entry, No service – all staff members, visitors and customers entering workplaces, shops or business premises must wear a face mask that should cover the mouth and nose.
All office and business premises must have a handwashing station with running water and soap or hand sanitizer
Restrict all physical meetings and instead opt for virtual meetings, whenever possible..
Office, shops and business premises must be well-ventilated and cleaned regularly throughout the day.
Employees who are feeling unwell or have COVID-19 symptoms, should notify their supervisor immediately, or stay at home and seek medical attention to confirm diagnosis, by doing a COVID19 test.
The minister commmended all medical and other frontline personnel in the fight against COVID-19 pandemic.
December 18, 2020
NCPC boss bags Merit Award
By Joyce Remi-Babayeju

Executive Secretary, Nigeria Christian Pilgrim Commission, NCPC, Rev. Yakubu Pam has bagged the Christian Maturity Leadership Merit Award from the COCIN church in Plateau State.
Vice President of the COCIN church, Rev. Dr. Obed Dashan presented the award to Rev Pam recently in company if the Chairman of the occasion, General John Tyemlong during the 33rd/34th Gindiri Theological Seminary Convocation at Ulster Church, Plateau State Recently.
December 18, 2020
Covid-19: BNSG Bans all activities during Yuletide
By Isaac Kertyo Makurdi
Following an upsurge in covid-19 infection cases in the second wave which is currently rocking the country, Benue State Security Council presided over by Governor Samuel Ortom has banned all activities during Christmas and New year festivities to contain the spread of the dreaded virus.
The Governor of Benue State, Samuel Ortom who briefed Journalists at the government house Makurdi shortly after the meeting explained that the surest way to curb the spread of the disease was to suspend all activities during the period.
Ortom expressed worry over the rising cases of covid-19 infection in recent times. Implored the people of the state to adhere strictly to the precautionary measures as pronounced by the Nigeria Center for Disease Control NCDC, by washing their hands regularly with soap and running water, observing social and physical distancing among others.
The Governor directed the Tor Tiv and Chairman Benue Council of Chiefs, Prof. James Ayatse to prevail on their subjects to keep to the safety protocols to prevent the spread of the virus.
December 18, 2020
Again gunmen attacks S/Kaduna community, killed 7 – SOKAPU
Armed gunmen,  yesterday evening (17th December, 2020) invaded Gora Gan village, in Atyap Chiefdom, Zangon Kataf Local Government Area of Kaduna state and wiped out five members of a family and killed two others, in fresh attack in an unending spiral of violence in Southern kaduna Communities.
The armed gunmen were identified as Fulani by the affected natives, in the attack that occurred on Thursday, at Gora Gan village, in Atyap Chiefdom.
A release issued and signed by spokesman of Southern kaduna People’s Union (SOKAPU), Mr Luka Binniyat, stated that the invaders also burnt down 17 houses in the village and destroyed several other assets.
Those killed include Ayuba Sheyin, 65; Jummai Sheyin, 55; Patience Sheyin, 5; Goodluck Sheyin,11 and Saviour Sheyin, 14. They are all of the same household.
“The rest are Peter Akau, 70, and Joel Ishaya 35.A At least 17 homes were razed by the attackers.
The Union stated that “This will  register as one of other attacks on the Atyap Chiefdom after a much celebrated and publicized peace accord was reached between elites of Atyap natives and their long time settled Hausa/Fulani communities in August this year.

“It could be recalled the on 15^th  November, 2020, the District Head of Ma’Zaki, in Atyap Chiefdom, Mr Haruna Kuye, was murdered along with his 9-year-old son, Destiny Haruna, while his wife and daughter survived with severe injuries inflicted on them.
“On Thursday, 17^th December, 2020, armed men paired on four motor bikes stormed Kujeni Tudu in Kajuru LGA of Kaduna state and attacked the Adara village, killing an elderly man, Bala Umaru, 75 and looted the village.
“In the pandemonium that ensued, 4 persons are still missing up to the time of writing this statement. They are: Dada Bulus, 55, Peter Tanko, 43, Buba Yakubu 51 and Emma Dauda, 38.
“This means that in one day 8 Southern Kaduna natives were killed in a genocidal campaign against our people by armed militia who every surviving victim of the violence always identifies as Fulani”, the statement stressed.
“Information reaching SOKAPU says that four of the Gora Gan invaders were killed by troops of Operation Safe Haven who came for rescue and that some carry identity cards showing where they come from. But, that we cannot confirm this as their corpses were not displayed.
“If the above assertion is true, then the government should have no reason not to use this information for a holistic investigation on the fleeing murderers and unravel those behind them and their motives.
“Part of Chikun LGA of Kaduna State bordering Niger sate have been sacked and are now IDPs in many communities with their kinsmen in Niger state.
“The primary reason why a government is formed is to protect lives and property. Any other reason is secondary. On this, Kaduna state and the Federal government has failed in this regard as scores of Southern Kaduna communities have been sacked and most of them occupied by the invaders after killing several and destroying communities.
“We are calling on the Internal Communities, Humanitarian Organizations, the United National, relevant NGOs both local and International, men and women of conscience to help us bear pressure on our government to take the issue of security and safety of the residents of Kaduna state more seriously, the statement added.
December 18, 2020
42-year-old man sues parents for destroying his porn collection
A 42 year-old man has won compensation against his parents after they destroyed his collection of porn and sex toys.
David Werking could receive a damages payout of up to $25,000 after successfully suing over the destruction of his stash at his folks’ home in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Werking’s parents Paul and Beth, both 68, allowed their son to move back in with them during 2016 and 2017.
But they sparked his fury by destroying the VHS tapes, DVDs and toys, after he moved away to Muncie, Indiana. Werking claims the items had a combined value of $25,000.
His lawsuit explained: ‘Some of the property was pornographic in nature. None of the property was illegal in nature.’
A federal judge agreed with Werkings claims that he had not ‘abandoned his property,’ and that his parents should not have destroyed it.
Werking sued in 2018 after inquiring about the whereabouts of his porn, only to be told that it had been dumped by his dad, the Star Press reported.
An email sent by Paul Werking said: ‘I do not possess your pornography.
‘It is gone. It has either been destroyed or disposed of. I may have missed a few items that are now in your possession but, at this point, if you don’t have it, it is gone.
READ ALSO: We’re enslaved: Benue South farmers cries out over herders invasion
Ditto for your sex toys and smutty magazines.’ Paul Werking’s email added: ‘Frankly. David, I did you a big favor by getting rid of all this stuff.’
Werking reported the destruction of the porn to his local sheriff’s office, and sent more than 40 emails detailing the DVDs, tapes and sex toys he said had disappeared.
The Werkings now have until February to come to an agreement on a damages payment, which will also be put before a judge.
December 18, 2020
BREAKING: Heavy Gridlock as petrol tanker explodes in Ibadan
A fully loaded petrol tanker has exploded at Total Filling Station, Iyaganku Ibadan.
The tanker while trying to maneuver in the axis fell off the ditch, while fuel licked out.
Firefighters on rescue mission are at the location trying to put out the fire.
The level of casualties cannot be ascertained as at the time of filling this report.
Roads leading to the scene of the explosion were said to have been cordoned off causing gridlock along the Dugbe, Ring Road, and Iyaganku areas in the state capital. The entire axis is currently locked down.
Details shortly….
December 18, 2020
Some Nigerians are not happy for Kankara schoolboys release — Presidency
The Personal Assistant to the President on New Media, Bashir Ahmad, says some ‘people’ are miffed over the release of hundreds of schoolboys abducted from Government Science Secondary School, Kankara, Katsina State.
“When those boys were kidnapped, some people were clearly happy, and now are also clearly not happy with their rescue. Nigeria will always win,” Ahmad tweeted.
READ ALSO: We’re enslaved: Benue South farmers cries out over herders invasion
Governor Aminu Masari had on Thursday night confirmed the release of 344 abducted schoolboys, adding that the boys were at Tsafe, Zamfara State, and would be transported to Kankara on Friday. Masari also said no ransom was paid before the boys were released.
Gunmen had invaded the school premises last Friday and abducted over 300 students after a gun duel with the police.
The abduction took place some hours after the President, Muhammadu Buhari, arrived in Daura, Katsina for a week-long private visit.
Leader of terror group Boko Haram, Abubakar Shekau, later released two video footage claiming responsibility for the dastardly act.
The Defence Headquarters, however, discredited the claim, insisting the act was carried out by bandits.
The President’s aide also lambasted the leader of the terror group for being a terrible liar. “Abubakar Shekau is just a terrible liar, though his supporters will definitely disagree and defend him but it’s fact, he is a liar, a terrible one,” Ahmad wrote.
December 18, 2020
Atiku flags off 2023 presidential campaign
Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has inaugurated his support groups across the 36 states of the federation, ahead of 2023 presidential elections
The Atiku Support Group was launched in Abuja with Alhaji Abubakar Kabir Babawo named as its Director General and Atiku Aminu Mohammed as its Chairman.
The mission of the organisation, it was learnt, is to project the former Vice-President’s vision of sustainable national development as he prepares to formally declare his intention to contest the 2023 presidential election.
READ ALSO: FG cancels N20 USSD NIN retrieval fee
The state coordinators and zonal excos include Northcentral Zonal Coordinator, Orngu Anngu; Deputy Zonal Coordinator, Isiaka Mogaji; Women Leader Mabe Ameh; Benue State Coordinator George Odoo Ezekiel; Niger State Coordinator Hassana Shuaibu Dada; Kwara State Coordinator Segun Olawoyin; Kogi State Coordinator Ocheni Titus Okayi; Nasarawa State Coordinator Abubakar Agwai; Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Coordinator Agajo Daniel and Plateau State Coordinator Solomon Ballason Shitnan.
December 18, 2020
Man beheads friend over soup ingredients
A 27-year old Indian hemp farmer, Owalum Benedict Ochin, has been remanded to prison custody by Akure Magistrate’s Court for beheading his friend and roommate identified as Ekon.
Benedict was said to have committed the act after a brawl over ingredients to put in a soup.
He was also alleged to attack one Blessing Opor with a machete after beheading his friend.
Benedict said he hails from Calabar in but came to Ondo State in search of job and was introduced to Blessing Opor and others who cultivated Indian hemp.
The incident was said to have happened on November 29, 2020, at about 6:30pm at Jungle forest, Ipele, Owo local government area.
Both friends were said to be labourers who engaged to cultivate Indian hemp for drug lords at the forest reserve in Ipele.
They lived together after working in the farm.
Benedict however said he killed his friend during a fracas.
According to him, “I killed my friend, Ekon because he provoked me. We were cooking soup and he went to pluck a leaf he knew would upset my stomach and put it inside the soup.
The defendant reportedly told investigators that he used to have stomach upset anytime he consumed the leaf.
He said the both of them went for their cutlasses and began to fight with it which made them sustain injuries but he had the upper hand and was able to hack his friend all over his body, before he made the last stroke at the head.
Benedict said he packed the head inside one bag and hid it inside the bush so that his crime would not be discovered.
On why he attacked Blessing, Benedict said he was angry after killing his friend and remembered that Blessing owed him some money.
He said it was the alarm by Blessing that attracted others to the scene and he was arrested.
Benedict was arraigned on a two count charge of “murder and attempted murder”.
Police prosecutor, Inspector Uloh Goodluck, said the offences were contrary to sections 516, 316 and punishable under section 319(1) and 390(1) of the Criminal Code Cap 37 Volume 1, Laws of Ondo State 2006.
The plea of the defendant was not taken when the charge was read to him.
Blessing was said to fled from the Federal Medical Centre Owo where he was receiving treatment.
Presiding Magistrate, N.T. Aladejana, ordered that the defendant remanded in Ondo Correctional Centre pending the outcome of advice from the office of the Department of Public Prosecution.
The case was adjourned to January 21, 2021 for hearing.
December 18, 2020