by admin | Apr 2, 2025 | crime, government, news, politics, politics and law
Operatives of the Department of State Security have arrested two principal suspects involved in the killing of 16 Nigerians of northern extraction in Uromi, Esan North East Local Government last week.
As stated by Governor Monday Okpehbolo’s Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, the suspects were apprehended by agents of the Department for State Security (DSS) in Uromi, based on reliable information.
He pointed out that agents from different security organizations were searching for additional crucial suspects linked to the regrettable events.
He stated, “Agents from the Department of State Security have detained two main suspects implicated in the murder of 16 individuals of northern Nigerian origin in Uromi within the Esan North East Local Government area earlier this week.”
The individuals under suspicion were apprehended by agents from the DSS in Uromi, based on reliable information. Various security agency personnel are currently searching for additional key figures implicated in these regrettable events.
The most recent update indicates that both primary suspects detained by the DSS officers have been moved to Abuja, which serves as the country’s capital, for additional questioning and potential legal proceedings under the oversight of the pertinent agencies, according to information obtained by The PUNC.
A source informed PUNCH that the 14 individuals apprehended for their alleged involvement in the murders have been moved to the Force headquarters as investigations into the case remain ongoing.
He pointed out that moving the suspects to Abuja was done according to the instructions issued by the Inspector-General of Police.
I can assure you that the suspects have been transported to Abuja as instructed by the IGP, and investigations regarding the case are continuing.
Itua also mentioned that he couldn’t verify whether the compensation pledged to the victim’s family would be monetary.
However, he stated that both the Edo and Kano state administrations are collaborating to develop an appropriate compensation plan for the families of the victims.
As you know, Governor Okpehbolo had meetings with the Kano State Government and visited the families of the 16 individuals who were killed; during these visits, he pledged to provide compensation.
I can’t specify the exact nature of the compensation, but both state governments are discussing measures to guarantee that the families of the victims receive appropriate restitution.
A person from Uromi, identifying himself only as Michael, stated that people living in the region where these murders occurred were abandoning their villages out of fear they might be detained.
He mentioned that women crowded the Ojuromi at the Uromi palace to demonstrate against the random arrests occurring in Uromi after the killing of 16 travelers.
He stated, “Currently, individuals are vacating the premises where the killings occurred due to concerns about potential arrest by law enforcement officers tasked with apprehending all those responsible.”
I think the demonstration held by the women on Monday is related to the random arrests of locals carried out by law enforcement agencies.
In the meantime, the Edo State branch of the All Progressives Congress has alleged that several key opposing political parties are plotting to create a crisis within the state with the aim of making it unmanageable.
Jarret Tenebe, who is the chairman of the APC in the state, mentioned this at a press briefing held on Tuesday in Abuja.
“We have learned that the leaders of several prominent opposing political parties within our state, together with two additional groups, have concocted an irresponsible and perilous scheme aimed at provoking unrest and making Edo unmanageable,” he stated.
Tenebe claimed that the intention of those involved in the conspiracy was to compel President Bola Tinubu to impose an emergency situation in the state.
Their malevolent aim is evident: they wish to compel President Bola Tinubu into declaring an emergency situation in Edo, as they lack faith in attaining success before the Edo Election Petition Tribunal.
The Nigerian news agency has reported that the tribunal plans to announce its decision on Wednesday regarding the petition submitted by the PDP candidate, Asue Ighodalo, challenging the results of the gubernatorial elections held on September 21, 2024, within the state.
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by admin | Apr 2, 2025 | government, political debates, politics, politics and government, politics and law
The
All Progressives Congress (APC)
Babatunde Sobowale, who is seeking leadership for the Ayobo-Ipaja Local Council Development Area (LCDA), has organized a Ramadan lecture.
At the gathering, speakers motivated attendees to engage actively in political endeavors.
Sheikh Yunus Jamiu, from Mufti Diyaar of Alimosho, emphasized using power and authority for fulfilling God’s will.
As per his view, the concept of leadership within Islam began with the arrival of Prophet Muhammad, who advised his companions to always select a leader whenever they embarked on a journey.
The prophet merged within himself the roles of emissary, political leader, and military chief, much as we see today. It is attributed to Prophet Muhammad that he stated: ‘Whoever follows their leader has followed me, Muhammad, and whoever disobeys their leader has disobeyed me, Muhammad.’
Sheikh Jamiu highlighted certain criteria for selecting leaders, including “choosing according to an Islamic viewpoint, demonstrating mercy, showing benevolence, possessing the wisdom to guide others, maintaining fairness and justice, and beingmale.”
Host Tunde Sobowale expressed his gratitude to God for bringing the event to fruition.
He mentioned that the purpose of the meeting was to enlighten Muslim attendees about topics such as “Islam and Politics” and “The Importance of Continuous Charity.”
“This public Ramadan lecture is unprecedented for TS projects and is here to remain, God willing,” he stated.
Sheikh Sulaimon Ibrahim stated that Zakat is an essential part of Islam, designed to cleanse one’s finances and promote support from the affluent to those in need.
He mentioned that items eligible for Sadaqah encompass edibles, monetary donations, and extending compassion to those who are underprivileged.
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by admin | Apr 2, 2025 | government, laws and regulations, politics, politics and government, politics and law
GABORONE – The Executive Secretary of Sadc, Elias Magosi, has praised the recent efforts aimed at transforming the Sadc Parliamentary Forum (Sadc PF) into a regional parliament.
After Botswana’s President Duma Boko signed an agreement last week amending the SADC treaty to facilitate the creation of a potential SADC parliament, Magosi initiated this action.
Mauritius currently stands as the sole SADC member state to have signed the agreement.
Nevertheless, he urged for the proactive participation of the region’s parliaments to guarantee prompt approval of all regional agreements.
Magosi characterized the signing of the agreement as a “significant moment” and an essential move toward regional unification, praising everyone who has contributed over the years to achieve this landmark accomplishment.
“We did not lose hope,” Magosi stated, further saying, “Many leaders have preceded you, laying down the groundwork, and now we stand together as you sign this crucial document. While the nation and past leadership deserve recognition, so do you for quickly recognizing the importance of affixing your signature.”
Magosi emphasized that setting up a regional parliament goes beyond symbolism; it represents an essential step forward in the institutional growth of SADC. This move aims particularly at bolstering democratic governance, providing better oversight mechanisms, and aligning legislation among member countries.
He stated that this measure ensures better regional governance, leading to more effective performance.
“The current laws require an independent advocate and an impartial observer to ensure that both the region and the individual member states adhere to these regulations in a way that benefits our area, our member nations, and our people,” Magosi stated.
Nevertheless, he voiced concerns about the persistent gap between presidential endorsements at the SADC summit and the sluggish pace of ratification by the parliaments of member states—delays that have hindered multiple regional agreements for as long as two decades.
“One of my objectives in this position is to ensure that member states endorse these agreements that we’ve had for quite a while,” Magosi stated.
He stated, “Upon approval of the agreement, a time lag exists between when Their Excellencies sign it during the Sadc summit and when they provide their ratification signatures. This interval frequently spans from 5 to 20 years, leading us to question the reason for such delays.”
He pointed out that this delay is especially concerning since all required internal assessments by legal teams and government agencies are presumed to be finished prior to the president’s approval, which means that ratification ought to move forward without undue administrative obstacles.
“SADC is only as robust as its mechanisms. The organization’s efficacy hinges on the efficiency of these tools. For these tools to function effectively, they require signature and ratification,” he emphasized.
Magosi implored lawmakers throughout the area to take an active role in promoting the ratification and implementation of agreed upon documents.
“It’s an appeal to each one of us serving as Members of Parliament from this area to thoroughly examine these tools and help expedite their implementation. We should aim to match the speed at which member states operate,” he stated.
He remained optimistic that should all necessary technical contributions be submitted promptly, the body forming the Sadc regional parliament might be completed and showcased during the forthcoming 45th Sadc summit in Madagascar.
He emphasized that the proposed regional parliament should be viewed and developed as a reliable, efficient, and beneficial organization, distinct from other pancontinental entities.
We are establishing a regional parliament. It needs to appear capable and efficient, with us as Members of Parliament ensuring its effectiveness… Our role includes safeguarding and maintaining it to ensure it brings benefit to the region and enhances the value for each member state.
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by admin | Apr 2, 2025 | government, korea national news, local news, news, politics and law
On April 4th, Seoul plans to enforce an unparalleled security measure near the Constitutional Court due to President Yoon Suk-yeol’s impeachment verdict scheduled for that day. The subway stations, fueling stations, and building sites within proximity will shut down temporarily, along with local educational institutions suspending their activities. Authorities stated that they would establish a barrier encompassing a hundred meters from the courthouse boundary, forming what has been termed as a “no-go zone,” excluding everyone without exception—even legislators won’t be allowed entry. Renowned cultural landmarks such as palaces, art museums, and exhibition halls will also cease operations. Businesses located in this region are advising staff members to opt for remote working arrangements instead.
On April 1, authorities stated that Anguk Station on Seoul Metro Line 3, situated close to the Constitutional Court, would remain shut throughout April 4, with trains bypassing this station without halting. Three days prior to the decision, four out of its six exits had been sealed off. Depending on circumstances, Seoul Metro might collaborate with law enforcement to make additional stations such as Gwanghwamun, Gyeongbokgung, Jongno 3-ga, Jonggak, City Hall, and Hangangjin pass-by stops as well.
The Seoul Metropolitan Police Department has implemented traffic limitations beginning at 1:00 PM on April 1st. They have completely blocked off Yulgak-ro near the Constitutional Court under a 24-hour urgent measure. Should gatherings increase, street closings might expand to include Sajik-ro and Sejong-daero.
On April 4, the National Palace Museum and surrounding cultural landmarks proximate to the Constitutional Court will be shut down, with 15 government employees designated for their security. In an effort to ensure student safety amid possible demonstrations, the Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education has mandated the closure of 11 educational institutions located in the vicinity; this includes kindergartens, elementary, middle, high, and specialized schools.
In order to minimize disruptions, the Seoul Metropolitan Government plans to station up to 1,350 crowd management personnel in crucial locations such as Gwanghwamun, Anguk Station, and Yeouido during the three-day period preceding and following the event. Additionally, the city has requested mobile service providers to install additional temporary cell towers to prevent network issues due to high pedestrian traffic.
A significant police deployment is scheduled for the day of the impeachment verdict, involving 20,000 riot police from 338 units across the country, with 14,000 officers stationed in Seoul. At midnight, the National Police Agency plans to declare a “Gapho” emergency, enabling complete activation of law enforcement resources. Additionally, on April 3rd, a “Eulho” emergency declaration will take effect specifically for Seoul and national-level policing efforts, deploying half of their personnel. Meanwhile, local police agencies throughout the regions will face a “Byeongho” emergency status requiring the involvement of 30 percent of their workforce.
The Korea Heritage Service’s Royal Palace and Tombs Center stated that visits to Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung, and Deoksugung palaces will be limited on April 4 due to safety concerns and efforts towards cultural conservation. Additional closures might occur based on circumstances preceding and following this decision. Notably, Changdeokgung, which holds the status of a UNESCO World Heritage site, lies merely 600 meters away from the Constitutional Court, whereas Gyeongbokgung has often served as a focal point for demonstrations.
A number of local museums and art galleries, such as the Seoul Museum of Craft Art, will remain closed on April 4. Additionally, the Unhyeongung Royal Residence, situated roughly 300 meters away from the Constitutional Court, will not accept visitors that same day.
A number of businesses close to the Constitutional Court are modifying their work schedules. The finance and public relations personnel at HD Hyundai, situated approximately 100 meters away from the court, have been instructed to either telecommute or go to the company’s Pangyo branch. Similarly, workers at Hyundai Oilbank within the same complex are making comparable adjustments. Additionally, both Hyundai Engineering & Construction and Hyundai Engineering are contemplating implementing remote working options for all team members; definitive choices will be finalized by early next month.
by admin | Apr 2, 2025 | government, international relations, politics, technology, united nations
On April 1, 2025, Minister of Foreign Affairs Gedion Timothewos welcomed United Nations Under-Secretary-General and Special Envoy for Digital and Emerging Technologies Amandeep Singh Gill to his office in Addis Ababa.
(Addis Ababa, April 1, 2025 — ENA)
During this event, Gill urged for Ethiopia’s inclusion in the new UN initiative focused on digitalization and artificial intelligence (AI), emphasizing the importance of its proactive participation.
The recently launched UN initiative focusing on digital and emerging technologies aims to create an enhanced regulatory structure for AI and strengthen capabilities in this area.
The Foreign Minister Gedion pointed out that Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has already begun establishing entities like the Ethiopian Artificial Intelligence Institute to stress the significance of digitization for the country’s progress.
The Minister further stated that Ethiopia is dedicated to playing an active role as a crucial member of the recently initiated program.
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by admin | Apr 2, 2025 | community, government, public health and safety, safety, security
The Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps plans to dispatch 500 of its staff members to maintain safety during the crowning ceremony of Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, set to occur in Oyo town this coming Saturday.
The rollout is designed to ensure proper crowd management, maintain safety, and protect vital facilities during the event.
The dignitaries anticipated at the coronation consist of the ex-Prime Minister of Canada, Justin Trudeau, envoys from several nations, along with more than 200 individuals of Nigerian Yoruba descent residing in Canada.
Notable attendees also encompass prominent traditional leaders like the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi; Omo N’Oba N’Edo, Oba Erediauwa from Benin; Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar III; and Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, along with several others.
As stated by Samuel Opebiyi, the spokesperson for the NSCDC in Oyo State, the officers will be positioned tactically at the site of the coronation, major roadways, and various crucial locations throughout Oyo town.
The primary coronation event will be held at Olivet Baptist Heights, with the Local Organizing Committee designating 10 additional locations to accommodate guests.
The Oyo State Command of the NSCDC, led by Commandant Augustine Padonu, has confirmed that their personnel have received specialized training to handle the particular needs of this event. The gathering is anticipated to attract numerous individuals from across the globe.
The declaration stated: “Under the guidance of Commandant Augustine Padonu, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Oyo State Command, has established an extensive security strategy aimed at ensuring a seamless and protected coronation ceremony for His Imperial Majesty, Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I.”
Considering the importance of this momentous occasion and the anticipated high attendance, the NSCDC plans to deploy approximately 500 well-trained staff members for security duties. Their roles include maintaining order among crowds, protecting vital facilities, and ensuring safety across all stages of the event. These agents will be positioned at crucial points such as the location where the crowning takes place, significant roadways, and essential sites within Oyo Town to thwart any potential breaches in security measures.
The NSCDC representative additionally highlighted the cooperation with various security organizations to ensure prevention of any security incidents prior to, throughout, and following the event.
Furthermore, the NSCDC plays a crucial role within the committee established to guarantee the smooth execution of the coronation, primarily concerning safety measures. They are closely coordinating with various security organizations to uphold public order throughout the entire duration of the event. These seasoned personnel will oversee operations and swiftly address any security issues that arise.
The NSCDC continues to uphold its commitment to safeguarding individuals and assets. We guarantee both residents and visitors that comprehensive precautions have been implemented to secure them during the coronation celebrations. Additionally, we encourage everyone to collaborate with law enforcement personnel and follow all regulations to facilitate a safe and harmonious occasion,” the statement read.
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