Author: The Nation

  • YSFON sets date for Ilaji National U16 Football Tourney

    YSFON sets date for Ilaji National U16 Football Tourney

    The Youth Sports Federation of Nigeria (YSFON) has announced that the maiden edition of Ilaji National U16 Boys Football Tournament will hold from November, 27- December, 3 2023 at Ilaji Stadium & Resort Ibadan, Oyo State.

    According to YSFON National Secretary, Patrick Okpavuerhe, state chapters are advised to get their teams made up of 20 players ready for the competition.

    The statement noted that the players should be under the age of 16 years as at December, 15, 2023 with body weight of 58 kg and height of 175 meter with three officials; one of whom must be a YSFON official.

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    Arrival date for participating states has been set at December 27 assuring  that a member of the national organising committee and Oyo State YSFON official shall be on ground to receive the teams just as it advised states  to confirm their team list  on or before Friday, November, 17, 2023 for necessary preparation.

    Accommodation for all teams will be provided at Ilaji Sports Hostels while screening of players shall take place on Tuesday, November, 28.

  • AIU slams Nwokocha with three-year ban

    AIU slams Nwokocha with three-year ban

    The Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) has slammed a three-year ban on Nigerian athlete Grace Nwokocha for the Presence/Use of Prohibited Substances Ostarine and Ligandrol.

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    Nwokocha’s ban is a result of the positive In Competition sample returned during the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, where the Commonwealth Games Federation (“CGF”) in accordance with the Anti-Doping Rules for the 2022 Commonwealth Games (the “CGF ADR”), found an Adverse Analytical Finding for Ostarine and Dihydroxy-LGD4033 (a Metabolite of Ligandrol) which are Non-Specified substances, prohibited at all times.

  • Vet council inducts 29 graduates of UNILORIN as members

    Vet council inducts 29 graduates of UNILORIN as members

    Veterinary Council of Nigeria (VCN) has inducted 29 graduates of the University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) into the council.

    The inductees on Monday this week graduated from the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine of UNILORIN In the 2021/2022 academic session.

    A son of a police officer in Ogun state and a petty trader mother, Fasasi Abdulbasit, emerged as the best graduate in the faculty.

    Performing the induction during the fifth induction/oath-taking ceremony entitled: “From Healing Heaves to Healthy Harvests: The inspiring Journey to Tunde Agbato, Veterinarian Extraordinaire”, the President, Veterinary Council of Nigeria (VCN) Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) Aishatu Abubakar-Baju, represented by Prof Matthew Adamu, charged the graduates to abide by laid down rules, regulations, and laws.

    She said the regulatory agency had digitized its operation to check quackery and provide more efficient and effective operation.

    She urged the new graduates to register with the agency to practice legally. “You must practice within the ambits of ethics of the profession and within the law or face tribunal set up to try defaulters”, he said.

    In his remarks, the Vice Chancellor of the institution, Prof Wahab Egbewole (SAN), charged the graduands to soar like eagles with comportment and integrity.

    Prof Egbewole, who said that parents and society deserve more from the new veterinary doctors for their labour on them, added that “You cannot afford to disappoint Nigeria”.

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    “Practice with compassion because the animals you’ll be dealing with cannot talk. Also, it would be best if you comported yourself in society because people expect a lot from you. Develop your capacity. Don’t be complacent. Be diligent. Leverage on technology. This is an opportunity. Don’t abuse the opportunity given to you”, he said.

    Earlier, the Dean of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Prof Oyebisi Azeez, said that the ceremony marked the beginning of a journey that holds great responsibility and even greater reward.

    Professor Azeez, who said that veterinarians play a unique role in society, added “We are the guardians of the health and well-being of animals, large and small.

     “We are the defenders of the bond between humans and their beloved pets. We are the stewards of our environment, advocating for the welfare of both domestic and wild creatures.

    “But being a veterinarian is not just about treating ailments, prescribing medications, or performing surgeries. It’s about understanding the intricate connections that exist between animals, humans, and

    the environment. It’s about being a voice for those who cannot speak for themselves, a source of comfort to those in pain, and a beacon of hope for those who are suffering.

    “In your hands, new veterinarians, you hold the power to make a real difference in the world. You can alleviate suffering, promote the welfare of animals, and safeguard public health. Your

    knowledge and expertise will touch the lives of countless creatures, both great and small.”

  • Mutiu Are hails Tinubu’s Supreme Court victory

    Mutiu Are hails Tinubu’s Supreme Court victory

    A Chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos, Alhaji Mutiu Are has congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over his victory at the Supreme Court.

    Are who is also the Otun Bada Adinni of Lagos averred that the dismissal of the petitions brought forth by the presidential candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Labour Party was a resounding affirmation of the trust and mandate bestowed upon Tinubu by the Nigerian people.

    “This outcome not only reinforces the will of the Nigerian citizens who freely chose you as their leader but also reaffirms the strength and integrity of our democratic processes. As the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, this victory is a testament to your dedication, vision, and your ability to connect with the aspirations of the people.

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     Are also congratulated the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, saying the VP’s partnership and collaborative efforts with the President was a testament to the unity and resolve within the administration.

     “Furthermore, I offer my sincere congratulations to our esteemed First Lady, Yeye Asiwaju Remi Tinubu, whose unwavering support has undoubtedly been a source of strength and encouragement for you.

     “As we celebrate this momentous victory, I join millions of Nigerians in earnest prayers for your continued good health, longevity, and wisdom to lead our great nation to greater heights.

     “Once again, congratulations, Mr. President. May your journey be marked by success and the fulfillment of the aspirations of our beloved nation.

     “Congratulations, Mr. President,” Are said.

  • Amosun, Daniel pay tributes  as Onabiyi is laid to rest

    Amosun, Daniel pay tributes  as Onabiyi is laid to rest

    The remains of the former Commissioner in Ogun State, Alhaji Suleiman Adebodun Onabiyi have been laid to rest in Lagos.

    Suleiman Onabiyi, according to his family, died on Sunday, 22nd of October at the age of 85. The family said farewell to the Grassroots politician as he was laid to rest in a traditional Muslim funeral while tributes from top family friends and well-wishers kept coming.

    The elder statesman was known for his grassroots politics and a philanthropist to his community and beyond which earned him a book entitled, “Prince of the Grassroots” a biography of Chief Suleiman ONABIYI Okanlomo of Egbaland.

    Amosun in a recent press statement described him as a selfless leader who was Chairman of Ifo Local Government Area under the Social Democratic Party (SDP) State, Commissioner for Agriculture, Chairman of the Nigeria Inland Waterways Authority, and the Chairman of the Elders Council of People Democratic Party (PDP) in Ogun State, among others.

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    In his words: “A great lover of the masses, a kind-hearted leader, and a man of admirable carriage, Chief Onabiyi will be remembered for the many lives he touched positively through his philanthropic gesture, and for his devotion and commitment to the cause of the Almighty Allah (SWT).

    Alhaji Suleiman Onabiyi was a man of unparalleled character, an embodiment of wisdom, and a pillar of strength for his family. His life was a testament to the values of integrity, kindness, and selflessness. He touched the lives of those around him in profound ways.

    A free thinker and a selfless soul, he consistently placed the needs of his family at the forefront. He was the guiding light of our lives, offering wisdom and unwavering support to his loved ones.

  • Tinubu felicitates Justice Ayoola at 90

    Tinubu felicitates Justice Ayoola at 90

    President Bola Tinubu has celebrated renowned jurist and retired Justice of the Supreme Court, Justice Emmanuel Ayoola,  on his 90th birthday.

     In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, President Tinubu described the foremost retired justice as a trailblazer and a fine example of integrity and honour in Nigeria’s judiciary.

    “Justice Ayoola is among the pace-setters of the Nigerian judiciary. He is renowned for his discipline, diligence, honour, and unwavering integrity.

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    “He is one of those distinguished jurists whose hard work, brilliance, fortitude, and patriotism built and strengthened the Nigerian judiciary,” the President said.

    He wished the foremost justice many more years in good health.

    Justice Ayoola retired from the Supreme Court in 2003. He served as the Chief Justice of the Gambia from 1983 to 1992 and was Vice President of the World Judges Association in 1991.

  • Council allocates palliatives to residents

    Council allocates palliatives to residents

    Residents of Amuwo-Odofin Local Government Area (LGA) have lauded the council for the recent distribution of palliatives they received to alleviate the effects of fuel subsidy removal.

    The food items distributed included rice, beans, eggs, palm oil, vegetable oil, yam, and plantain, among others. One of the representatives of the Community Development Council (CDC) of Amuwo-Odofin, Prince Abdullahi Akinsemoyin, efforts reached various segments of society and made a significant impact.

    According to the local government Chairman, Valentine Buraimoh, representatives were selected from various groups within the community to ensure the equitable distribution of the palliatives to their members; while noting that the palliatives were intended for the poor, the downtrodden, and those struggling to afford food during these challenging times. Buraimoh added that the distribution of palliatives would continue every month until further notice, adding that a free medical programme would be available for community members for an entire week.

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    “This is our way of providing aid to our people, and it is completely free. Considering the issue of fuel subsidy removal, we deemed it necessary to support our community. We have structured the distribution in a way that ensures all major stakeholders will be able to provide these supplies to their members who are in need. This aid is not intended for those who are already well-fed, but rather for those who are struggling to access enough food.

    We have taken the time to carefully examine all the groups within our local government council, including women, men, youths, the physically challenged, and the downtrodden. We follow the same structure every time we implement programs like this,” Buraimoh said.

    A representative of the Spinal Cord Injury Association of Nigeria, Adejoke Afolabi, lauded the chairman for his commitment to ensuring the well-being of the residents despite the harsh economic conditions.

    She said: “It’s not easy nowadays; even affording food has become so expensive. With this distribution, we are grateful to him. He has promised that it will continue every month. We don’t know how to thank him enough, but God will surely reward him.”

  • Why we created 137 standing committees, by House

    Why we created 137 standing committees, by House

    The House of Representatives has said that it created about 137 standing committees to make oversight functions of the legislature more effective.

    While the House initially created 134 standing committees before proceeding on its annual vacation, Speaker Tajudeen Abass announced the creation of additional three committees when the House resumes from vacation.

    The House also said it had passed for first reading,  about 1800 bills since it was inaugurated in June while 10 of those bills had been passed awaiting concurrence from the Senate.

    Spokesman of the House, Akin Rotimi who spoke at his first media briefing since the inauguration of the House, said rather than fault the creation of more committees, Nigerians should applaud the House for its attempt to bring governance closer to the people through effective oversight.

    Rotimi said the committees were constituted in line with present realities in the polity to create the right structure for its envisioned strengthening of oversight functions and to ensure seamless engagement.

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    He said the House leadership should be commended for taking a bold step towards carrying members of such a politically diverse parliament along, while dismissing the claim that the newly-reformed 70 Parliamentary Friendship Groups were a duplication of both the House Committee on Foreign Affairs and that on Diaspora.

    He disclosed that the leadership of the friendship groups was drawn largely from the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, adding that their function was to ease interaction with other parliaments across the world.

    Speaking on the bills that had been passed by the House, Rotimi said one of the most significant bills passed by the House was an audit bill which seeks to repeal the 1956 audit act.

    He informed that two new members Zango Baba Abubakar (Yola North/Yola South/Girei Federal Constituency) and Magaji Jaafar Abubakar (Maiha/Mubi North/Mubi South Federal Constituency) had been inaugurated as members of the parliament following recent judgements by the Court of Appeal on their election petitions.

    The two new lawmakers are members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Adamawa State.

    Also speaking, Chairman of the House Committee on Rules and Business, Hon. Francis Waive, revealed that over 1,800 bills had scaled first reading while 10 pieces of legislation had so far been passed by the House.

    Waive described the passage of the Nigeria Audit Service Bill which repealed the Audit Ordinance of 1956 as one of such landmark bills, just as he listed a key achievement of his Committee to include innovations in the areas of the Notice and Order Papers in order to enable a seamless distribution process and allow effective contributions by Members during plenary.

    The Delta federal lawmaker further praised the 10th Assembly for its unprecedented feat in the area of motions, noting that over 300 motions sponsored by no fewer than 200 Members have so far been sponsored despite the fact that eighty (80%) of the lawmakers are newbies in the federal parliament.

  • Gombe police arrest teenage killer of 58-year-old mother

    Gombe police arrest teenage killer of 58-year-old mother

    The Gombe State Police Command yesterday announced the arrest of 18 years old Mustapha Adamu Isah alias Abbati, who killed 58 years old Hajiya Aishatu Abdullahi a.k.a. Damori at Jekadafari Quarters of Gombe.

    The state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), ASP Mahid Mua’zu, who announced this in Gombe while parading the suspect, said on October 20, 2023, at about 10 pm, a formal complaint was received at Pantami Division from one Muhammad Sani Abdullahi, a male aged 45, of Jeka da Fari Quarters Gombe, who reported that his mother, Aishatu Abdullahi, was slaughtered with a knife by an unknown person around 0930hrs.

    “Upon receipt of the complaint, police operatives attached to Pantami Division immediately responded and went to the scene where Aishatu Abdullahi was found in a pool of blood, and was immediately rushed to the hospital but was certified dead by a medical doctor at the Federal Teaching Hospital Gombe.

    “The suspect mentioned above was arrested on October 22, 2023, at around 01:30 p.m. in connection to the case following credible intelligence received by the investigative team which was constituted by DC Operation CP Hayatu Usman on behalf of the command and headed by the Assistant Commissioner of Police, SCID Gombe,” he said.

    According to him, during the investigation, the suspect confessed to sneaking into Aishatu Abdullahi’s room in search of his spanner, which she had seized from him.

    The suspect also mentioned an accomplice, Idris Abubakar Danjauro, male, aged 17 years, from the same address, who he said joined him in the room to carry out the act.

    But Idris, who was also arrested, denied knowledge of Aishatu’s killer during interrogation.

    “The suspect mentioned that Aishatu returned from the neighbours, found him in her room, and questioned him. He refused to leave, resulting in him attacking her, strangling her, and killing her with a knife and escaping through the toilet to an unknown destination, leaving behind his stained shirt and knife but managing to escape with the spanner, which was later recovered from him,” said Mua’zu.

    Further investigation by the police revealed through eyewitnesses that at the time of the incident when the said Aishatu was screaming for help, they were together with the said Idris who assisted in calling the relatives of the deceased on the phone but they were not reachable.

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    The suspect also later admitted committing the act alone without support from Idris, saying that he only mentioned Idris because he had caused him to be sacked from the garage where they were working together, leaving him unemployed for a year.

    The Spanner, blood-stained shirt and knife were recovered as exhibits.

    Similarly, the police have also arrested 22 years old Rabilu Adamu of Gombe Abba, Dukku Local Government Area of Gombe State and 28 years old Ado Yusuf of Zoro village in Darazo Local Government Area of Bauchi State in connection with the kidnapping and murder of three years old Ismail Sadi.

    A formal complaint on the incident was made by one Malam Sadi Musa of Gombe Abba, Dukku LGA Gombe State, that on 18/10/2023 at about 1200 hrs he discovered that his son named Ismail Sadi ‘m’ 3yrs old was kidnapped by an unknown person.

    He later suspected his 22 years old nephew, Rabilu Adamu, following his suspicious movement while in search of the missing child.

    On receipt of the complaint, the officer in charge of Gombe Abba Police outstation and his team rushed to the area, arrested the said Rabilu and took him to the station for questioning.

    “After diligent investigation, the suspect confessed to having handed over the said Ismail to his accomplice Ado Yusuf of Zoro village, Darazo LGA Bauchi State, after kidnapping him together at Gombe Abba village.

    “A team of Police operatives attached to Dukku Division, led by the DPO, swung into action and succeeded in arresting the said Ado who denied having the victim in his custody even after arriving at Dukku Divisional Police Headquarters.

    “During interrogation, the two suspects confessed to kidnapping the victim on 18/10/2023 at about 10 am to an unknown destination, tied him with rope and left him there lying down till 11 pm,” said Mua’zu.

    Further investigation by the police revealed that after picking up the three years old boy, the suspects killed him, put him in a sack, and took him to the room of Rabilu who happens to be his cousin.

    The body had already started decomposing before it was recovered by the Police and taken to the hospital for certification.

    The suspects have confessed to the crime voluntarily.

  • Zamfara ex-commissioners fault N70b fraud allegation against Matawalle’s govt

    Zamfara ex-commissioners fault N70b fraud allegation against Matawalle’s govt

    A former Commissioner of Finance and Economic Planning in Zamfara State, Rabiu Garba, and his counterpart in the Ministry of Information, Ibrahim Dosara, have faulted the allegation of N70 billion fraud allegedly committed under the immediate past administration.

    Garba and Dosara, who served in the administration of Governor Bello Matawalle, described the allegation as a mischief and campaign of calumny being fuelled by agents of the incumbent administration in the state, led by Governor Lawal.

    They claimed that the said N70 billion was not diverted as being alleged but was judiciously deployed for the execution of projects across the state, which were approved by relevant agencies.

    The ex-commissioners, who spoke in Abuja, accused the current administration in the state of engaging in extra budgetary spending without the approval of the State House of Assembly.

    Garba said: “We are calling on the State House of Assembly to impeach the governor for spending outside the budget of the state.

    “He awarded a contract that is not in the budget. A budget primarily is a source document where works and services of government are going to be rendered. A budget is an act of the state assembly which the governor violated.

    “He awarded the contract that was not in the budget. There was no evidence that the contract awarded was budgeted for, because I have a copy of the budget.

    “There was no virement to support the contracts that were awarded.  There was no evidence that the virement had been received by the State House of Assembly and even, if there is, the state assembly had not attended to that issue.

    “Therefore, he was engaged in extra budgetary spending, which is an impeachable offence, and we call on them to commence impeachment proceedings against the governor.”

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    Garba alleged that the state government terminated the contract of a company engaged by the previous administration in relation to the cargo airport project and asked it to return N4.5 billion.

    “The contract was initially awarded for about N25b and has now been jacked up to N50b after the contract of the company was terminated. The company has taken the state government to court.

    Garba added: “As far as the former government of the state is concerned, we will not talk about it again. The contractor has the right to challenge termination of contract since it was duly signed and awarded.

    The allegation that contract was illegally taken by the former government of Alhaji Bello Matawalle is false.

    “EFCC went to banks and asked about the contract we executed. The Court stopped them from further investigation because they don’t have jurisdiction as it related to state funds.

    “The former Chairman of EFCC came to the conclusion that the funds were diverted from the companies to private pocket without knowing that those companies executed contracts on various projects. But he came out to say that the state government diverted N70b to 100 private companies for his personal use, which is absolutely untrue.

    “The only thing is that he cannot go to the state government and collect documents for those contracts because the court has stopped him and is desperate to nail the former governor.

    “That is the reason he came up with that revelation of N70b. The issue of N70b does not arise because N30b is for the 14 local governments and the remaining N40b is for the state government,” Garba said.

    In his contribution, Dosara said Matawalle’s administration left the state better than the current state of affairs.

    He added: “We left the state better than it is today. The state is exposed to bandits, and as things are now, the state capital, Guasau, is not spared.

    “Since May 29 when this government came into power, unnecessary IDP camps have been created.

    “The primary responsibility of protecting lives and property has not been attended to.

    “He should face governance and not allegations that cannot be substantiated.”