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NDLEA Apprehends Wheelchair-Bound Drug Dealer, Ex-Convict, and Others in Various Operations
By Daniel Edu
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has made significant arrests in different operations, including a wheelchair-bound drug dealer and an ex-convict, as detailed in recent reports.
In Afuze, the headquarters of Owan East Local Government Area of Edo State, the NDLEA arrested a physically challenged drug dealer, Godwin Emuneyin, aged 45. Despite his wheelchair use, Emuneyin allegedly used it as a cover to engage in the illicit trade of substances like methamphetamine and cannabis. The agency recovered a wooden box containing 18 pinches of methamphetamine, one block, and 71 wraps of cannabis during his arrest.
Other operations in Edo State included the recovery of 42 bags of cannabis (480kgs) from a camp in Aviosi forest and the raiding of Utese forest in Ovia North East LGA, resulting in the confiscation of 231.5kgs of cannabis and the destruction of a cannabis farm.
In Adamawa State, NDLEA operatives intercepted a Toyota Corolla loaded with 30,899 tramadol pills along the Ngurore-Yola Road. The driver, Sani Samaila, claimed the consignment was from Jalingo, Taraba State, destined for Yola, Adamawa State. In another operation, a suspect named Abdullahi Sani was arrested in Ngurore town with dried weeds suspected to be cannabis sativa, leading to the recovery of 19 blocks of compressed cannabis from the home of an alleged drug lord, Alhaji Bubakari.
In Ogun State, a joint team of NDLEA operatives and other security agencies destroyed 18.875 tonnes of cannabis on a farmland and recovered 100 jumbo bags (1,100kg) of the substance in James town, Ogunmakin area of Obafemi Owode LGA. Okpor Chukwuma and six other male suspects were arrested during the operation.
Other arrests included a commercial bus driver, Olayinka Sowo, apprehended along the Ibadan-Akure Expressway for the alleged conspiracy to transport 45.150kgs of cannabis from Lagos to Osun State. In Abuja, NDLEA officers intercepted 7,980 pills of diazepam and 567 bottles of codeine syrup in a commercial bus along Abaji-Abuja highway, leading to the arrest of the consignment’s owner, Ugwu Ikenna.
In Delta State, NDLEA operatives, assisted by the Nigerian Army, destroyed 12.5 tonnes of cannabis on a farmland in Umuchime community, Ndokwa West LGA, and recovered 53.22kgs of processed weeds and seeds. A suspect named Christopher Anim (alias Ogidi) was also arrested during the operation.
Lastly, in Kano, two suspects, Amarachukwu Eugene and Abdulaziz Auwal, were arrested with 202 blocks of cannabis weighing 113.1kgs.
November 13, 2023
House Committee Chairman, Gagdi Refutes Claims of Advocating Tinubu’s Investigation
By Daniel Edu
Hon. Yusuf Gagdi, the Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Navy, has refuted reports suggesting that he called for an investigation into President Bola Ahmed Tinubu regarding the removal of the fuel subsidy, deeming them as misleading.
The initial report alleged that Gagdi, in an interview with BBC Hausa Service, asserted that the president should be scrutinized for the savings resulting from the subsidy removal.
In a statement released on Sunday, Gagdi urged the media to exercise thoroughness in reporting and emphasized the importance of maintaining integrity, especially in matters of translation. He asserted that it is not within his character to use specific words or insinuate any motives against an administration working to uplift Nigerians out of poverty and improve the overall well-being of the populace.
Gagdi argued that the removal of the fuel subsidy was a necessary step, highlighting that it previously only benefited a select few, excluding the majority of Nigerians. He commended Tinubu for taking the bold initiative.
Emphasizing his commitment to the All Progressives Congress (APC), Gagdi dismissed the purported report of him calling for Tinubu’s probe as an attempt to create a division between him and the ‘Renewed Hope Agenda.’
He clarified, “The report quoting me as allegedly saying President Tinubu would be probed over the subsidy removal was misleading. Nothing can be farther from the truth in that news report.”
Gagdi further explained that in the interview with BBC Hausa Service, he emphasized the necessity of eliminating the fuel subsidy, as it had been benefiting only a privileged few, to the detriment of the majority of Nigerians.
In conclusion, Gagdi denounced the report as irresponsible and designed to create a rift between him and President Tinubu, reaffirming his dedication to the APC and the objectives of the Renewed Hope Agenda. He also highlighted his respect for the president by voluntarily stepping down from the speakership race when directed to do so.
November 13, 2023
INEC Declares APC’S Ododo winner of the off-cycle Election in Kogi
By Noah Ocheni, Lokoja
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has declared the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Alh. Usman Ahmed Ododo, as winner of the last Saturday’s governorship election, held in Kogi state.
According to the INEC’s returning officer, Prof. Johnson Urame, he said that the candidate of the APC got APC 446,237 votes.
The governorship candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Alh. Muritala Yakubu Ajaka, who came second in the exercise, polled a total votes of SDP 259, 052 while the candidate of People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Dino Melaye, came third with the total number 46, 362 votes.
Prof. Johnson said “Ahmed Usman Ododo of the All Progressives Congress having satisfied the mandate of the law is declared the winner of Kogi state governorship election and returned elected”.
November 13, 2023
Kogi Guber: Again INEC to conduct Fresh Election in 25 wards in the Central Kogi
By Noah Ocheni, Lokoja
The Independent National Electoral Commission has reacted to the suspension of results in some polling units in the Saturday November 11th gubernatorial election in Kogi state.
INEC in a statement signed by National Commissioner & Member
Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Kudu Haruna on Sunday evening explained that the commission received an update from the Kogi State office regarding the suspension of election in some locations in the State where result sheets were completed before the commencement of voting.
According to the statement, “The most critical incident occurred in nine out of 10 Wards in Ogori/Magongo Local Government Area (LGA).”
“We received reports of similar and other incidents in Adavi (5 Polling Units in Okunchi/Ozuri/Onieka Ward), Ajaokuta (5 Polling Units in Adogo Ward), Okehi (1 Polling Unit in Eika/Ohizenyi Ward) and Okene (5 Polling Units in Obehira Uvete Ward). Results from the affected Polling Units have been accounted for in Form EC40G for the four LGAS”.
“However, in the case of Ogori/Magongo LGA, only the result of Oshobane Ward II with eight Polling Units and 2,264 registered voters has been collated”.
“Election in the other nine Wards (Eni, Okibo, Okesi, Ileteju, Aiyeromi, Ugugu, Obinoyin, Obatgben and asOturu) involving 59 Polling Units and 15,136 registered voters remain suspended.”
In line with Section 24(3) of the Electoral Act 2022 and Clause 59 of INEC Regulations and Guidelines on the Conduct of Elections 2022, fresh election will be held on Saturday 18th November 2023 in the affected Polling Units”.
“The decision to hold fresh elections is subject to the Returning Officer’s determination of the application of the Margin of Lead Principle.”
However, this decision is without prejudice to our avowed commitment to follow the audit trail of personnel and materials to ascertain those who may have been complicit in undermining the process and apply appropriate sanctions where necessary”.
INEC however concluded by reiterating its assurances to voters in Kogi State that their votes will continue to count and their wishes respected.
November 13, 2023
“Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) Renews Commitment to Revenue Enhancement”
By Daniel Edu
Hussaini Magaji, the Registrar-General/CEO of the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), has restated his commitment to implementing a comprehensive four-point agenda aimed at improving revenue and enhancing overall operations at the agency. This affirmation was made during his working visit to the CAC Kano office.
In a statement signed by Rasheed Mahe, Head of the Media Section in the Public Affairs Unit, Magaji emphasized the paramount importance of enhancing the commission’s revenue and solicited the full support of the staff in achieving this objective. He stated, “Improving the commission’s revenue will be given top priority attention during my tenure, and I need your total support to achieve this goal.”
During an interactive meeting with the staff, Magaji highlighted key areas of focus, including human capital development, institution building, staff welfare, and the improvement of the commission’s revenue. He underscored the significance of timely filing of annual returns by company owners to avoid sanctions.
Addressing welfare concerns, Magaji assured that hardworking officers would not only receive commendations but also be generously rewarded. He called on CAC staff to collaborate in building a stronger Commission aligned with the renewed hope agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The head of the Kano office, Almustapha Dahiru, welcomed the Registrar General and initiated an interactive meeting where staff discussed various issues. Magaji pledged to address these concerns promptly. The statement further mentioned that the Registrar was guided around the premises by the site engineer, accompanied by the Commission’s head of the General Services Department, Ado Ali Birninkudu.
November 12, 2023
“Imo State Residents Erupt in Celebration Over Uzodinma’s Re-election Victory”
By Daniel Edu
Owerri, the state capital, witnessed a massive influx of Governor Hope Uzodinma’s supporters on Sunday, celebrating the governor’s triumph in the November 11 gubernatorial election. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had declared Uzodimma, the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, the winner after securing 540,308 votes, defeating Samuel Anyanwu of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Athan Achonu of the Labour Party.

The city resonated with the sounds of motorcycles and vehicles as jubilant supporters took to the streets immediately after the INEC returning officer for Imo, Prof. Abayomi Fasina, announced Uzodinma’s victory. The celebratory mood was evident as APC supporters, led by Chinasa Nwaneri, Barr. Ennyinna Onuegbu, and Deputy Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Amarachi Iwuanyanwu, paraded from the INEC office along Port Harcourt Road, Owerri.
Brandishing APC flags and brooms, the exuberant supporters chanted victory songs, marching through various streets. The celebration gained momentum as groups of convoys from different parts of the state joined the victorious procession along Port Harcourt Road, Bank Road, Wetheral Road, Douglas, and Okigwe roads. The festive atmosphere reflected the enthusiasm and excitement among the residents in response to Uzodinma’s re-election. #ImoState #Uzodinma #ElectionCelebration

November 12, 2023
Breaking News: INEC Announces Fresh Elections in 59 Kogi Polling Units on November 18
By Daniel Edu
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) revealed on Sunday its decision to conduct new polls in 59 polling units located in the Ogori/Magongo Local Government Area of Kogi State.
According to INEC, the fresh elections are scheduled for Saturday, November 18, 2023, as stated by Mohammed Haruna, a National Commissioner at INEC, in a statement released on Sunday night.
Haruna explained, “Following our statement yesterday, we have received an update from our Kogi State office regarding the suspension of elections in certain locations in the State where result sheets were completed before the start of voting. The most significant incident occurred in nine out of 10 Wards in Ogori/Magongo Local Government Area (LGA).”
He continued, “Similar incidents were reported in Adavi (5 Polling Units in Okunchi/Ozuri/Onieka Ward), Ajaokuta (5 Polling Units in Adogo Ward), Okehi (1 Polling Unit in Eika/Ohizenyi Ward), and Okene (5 Polling Units in Obehira Uvete Ward). Results from the affected Polling Units have been documented in Form EC40G for the four LGAs.”
“However, in the case of Ogori/Magongo LGA, only the result of Oshobane Ward II, comprising eight Polling Units and 2,264 registered voters, has been collated. Elections in the other nine Wards (Eni, Okibo, Okesi, Ileteju, Aiyeromi, Ugugu, Obinoyin, Obatgben, and Oturu) involving 59 Polling Units and 15,136 registered voters remain suspended. In accordance with Section 24(3) of the Electoral Act 2022 and Clause 59 of INEC Regulations and Guidelines on the Conduct of Elections 2022, a fresh election will be held on Saturday, November 18, 2023, in the affected Polling Units.”
Haruna added, “The decision to hold fresh elections is subject to the Returning Officer’s determination of the application of the Margin of Lead Principle. However, this decision is without prejudice to our avowed commitment to follow the audit trail of personnel and materials to ascertain those who may have been complicit in undermining the process and apply appropriate sanctions where necessary.”
“The Commission wishes to reiterate its assurances to voters in Kogi State that their votes will continue to count, and their wishes respected.”
November 12, 2023
NUJ FCT Chairman buries late wife Anthonia Osadebamwen in Edo
By Joyce Remi-Babayeju
NUJ FCT , Chairman, Comrade Osaretin Patrick Osadebamwen on Wednesday buried the remains of Late Mrs. Anthonia Attach Osadebamwen, amidst tears in the ancient city of Benin, Edo State.
Comrade Osadebamwen, an Abuja based journalist, who reports for the Nigerian Tribune newspaper at Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Among those who commiserated with the Chairman, NUJ, FCT Council include Honourable Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud.
In a statement personally signed by Mahmoud stated, “It is with a deep sense of loss and sadness that I convey to you my heartfelt condolence on the death of your amiable spouse, Mrs. Anthonia Attah Osadebamwen.”
“I can’t imagine the pain you are going through, but in this time of sorrow, may you find peace and solace in the loving memories you shared with your dear wife.”
“As you comprehend this profound loss, my heart goes out to you, and the rest of your family, and I wish you nothing but comfort and strength.”
“On behalf of the Office of the Honourable Minister ot State, FCT, do accept my deepest sympathies for this great loss.”
“May the Almighty GOD grant her eternal rest.”.
Speaking during after the burial, Comrade Osadebamwen maintained that the late Mrs. Osadebamwen was a virtuous and supportive wife whose demise was a great loss to the entire family.
He said, “My sweetheart, the 6th wonder of Igala-nation, my pride, my love, our love story is taking a new turn. One that would take a very long time to agitate my mind. It is about your sudden exit. You played me, my love. You sent me on an errand, and before I came back, you were on your way to heaven. Not my wailing could hold you back. So sweet was your heavenly sight you always talked about. You saw it, liked being there, and disregarded my call to return. And you were excited.”
“Today, the beautiful moments seem to have all gone. Wait, not gone. Efeosa Eseosa is here, so is Omosefe Ufedoh and Osarhiemen Ojone. They are the products of our union. The blessings of God that added no sorrow. I love you, my darling.”
November 12, 2023
Delta commissioner calls for commitment to science development
By Anne Azuka
Delta State Commissioner for Science, Technology and Innovation , Dr. Odinigwe Daniel Odigie has called for a reaffirmation of commitment to building trust in science, describing Science as a force for good.
Dr. Odigie made the call on Friday in Asaba during the celebration of the 2023 World Science Day For Peace and Development.
According to him, it is our collective responsibility to ensure that it continues to be a beacon of hope and progress as we harness the power of Science
to drive peace, development and the ‘more agenda’ of this new
administration.
Odigie however, expressed gratitude to all the Scientists, Researchers, Educators, Tech Communities, Inventors, Innovators who have contributed to the advancement of Science in Delta State.
He averred that this year’s theme:
“Building Trust in Science” reflected on the role of Science and Technology towards promoting peace, and fostering sustainability.
“As a beacon of hope and innovation over the centuries, Science has
transformed our world, from the simplest discoveries to the most groundbreaking advances of life-saving medical breakthroughs to sustainable energy solutions.
“Science has indeed shaped the course of humanity, guiding us towards a better future.
“Trust in Science, like any other form of trust, must be nurtured and earned especially in an age of misinformation and mistrust.
“It is crucial therefore that we promote a culture of Scientific integrity and transparency thus making the theme of 2023 World Science Day Celebration, so timely and requires a multi-faceted
approach”, Commissioner explained.
Speaking in an interview, the Permanent Secretary Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr. Ejiro Ogheneaga expressed the need for pupils, students and the populace to be trained on the importance of science in their lives.
Dr. Ogheneaga said the celebration was a means of creating awareness on the importance of science in the lives of everyone.
“Delta government intends to train many of our youths. Very soon you will see that a lot of things will be happening in here”, he stressed.
Highpoints of the ceremony was sharing of books to students and youths present.
November 12, 2023
CSO condemns rearrest of journalist, detention by police, vows to step-in
By our correspondent
Pro- Democracy and Civil Society group, ‘Campaign for Democracy’, has vowed to intervene in the rearrest and detention of investigative journalist Mr. Gabriel, A. Idibia by Nigeria police Kaduna command, over news reports.
A leader of the group, Comrade Abdul Bako Usman stated this on Sunday morning in a phone conversation with the victim. He said their intention is to be at operation Yaki police station on Monday to know the rationale for his continuous invitations over the news report, saying the arrest, rearrest and detention of the journalist is becoming a thing of concern to the Civil Society body.
“I am Comrade Abdul Bako, Usman, I just read the news story about your rearrest over a news report. You mean you were rearrested again. I think we the civil society need to come in because this arrest is taking a new and dangerous dimension.
“We’re surprise to hear that you’ve been rearrested and detained over the news report again and why this is happening to a journalist doing his professional job of informing the society and what’s the involvement of the police instead of the court, or is ii because he’s a non Muslim”, he lamented.
Recalled that the journalist had suffered two arrests and detention over the news report published in Daybreak Nigeria newspapers based in Abuja.
The two investigative news reports were published on poor condition of 2023 Muslims pilgrims exercise in Mando Hajj. Camp, with video evidence, and on the total failure of the Hajj exercise, as credited to the Amirul Hajj. the Emir of Zazzau, HRH Nuhu Bamali as monitored on foreign media as spoke on the situation.
The Civil society group leader who expressed deep surprised over the development promised to be at the Operation Yaki Kaduna police station to listen and ascertain the complaint made against the journalist by the police.
He lamented that the move is leading towards plans to quiet the journalists and deny the general public the right to fair, accurate information dissemination about happenings in the society.
Our correspondent was reliably informed that the journalist has also consulted widely, with relevant law firms including the CEO of the House of Justice, Barnawa, Kaduna Nigeria Barr. Gloria Ballason and Barrister Kure, for intervention and Justice, security of his life and protection of journalism in Kaduna and Nigeria in general.
November 12, 2023