#EndSARS: Hoodlums take over protest in parts of Lagos as two die in Ikorodu

 

ADELEKE ADESANYA

HOODLUMS have hijacked the #EndSARS protest in some parts of Lagos State, The Point has observed.

Findings by our correspondent revealed that the hoodlums had seized some places like Ikorodu Garage, Ogolonto, Iyana Oworo, Ilupeju and others under the guise of #EndSARS protests.

In Ikorodu, it was gathered that two lives were lost when the hoodlums, who were suspected cultists, took over the protests and launched an attack on a rival group.

Adedayo, a resident, told The Point, “We cannot go out again as I speak with you. My mother and I had to run back home this morning when the cultists took over at the garage. 

“Two people have already been killed. People going to work could not make it again as some of them were robbed by hoodlums.”

At Ogolonto, a resident who shared his experience on a social media platform said, “I was robbed two times this morning. My wife’s phone was collected at Ogolonto area while she was trekking when there was no vehicle again.

A few minutes from the spot where her phone was collected, other hoodlums also accosted her and collected money from her with knives.”

Residents in Ilupeju and Iyana Oworo said they were now forced to stay in their houses as hoodlums had taken over their streets.

Meanwhile, several residents in Lagos are now stranded as majors roads are totally blocked by protesters.

 

 

#EndSARS: 95-yr-old man joins protest, demands justice for son killed by SARS in Lagos

 

ADELEKE ADESANYA

AS protests continue against the Special Anti-Robbery Squad, a 95-year-old man, Eni Idum, and his 80-year-old wife, Alice Eni Idum, have joined the protest to demand justice over the death of their first son, Francis Eni Idum, who was allegedly killed by a SARS officer in Ilupeju, Lagos.

Francis, a 39-year-old hunchback, was allegedly killed in the early hours of July 15, 2019, by an officer of SARS in Lagos, identified as Akeem Mohammed, fondly called Scoda.

Eyewitnesses had said Scoda shot Francis in the head while attempting to shoot at some hoodlums that police teams were chasing in Ajisegiri Street, Ilupeju.

The incident, which was widely reported, led to calls for justice by friends and family.

Now that the youths of the country are calling for an end to SARS killings and police brutality, the 95-year-old man, who is suffering from stroke, is calling on government for justice over his son’s death.

The 95-year-old man, who spoke with our correspondent, said, “Despite Francis’ condition and the cleaning job he was doing in Lagos, he was sending us money to feed monthly before he was killed. As you can see my condition, I have been suffering from stroke two years before he was killed and he was sending me money to eat as I am just waiting for death. 

“But sadly, SARS killed and sent him to the grave ahead of me. Francis with his condition was the one that took his siblings to Lagos to cater for them since we have no power, but these people threw our family in sorrow. Sorrow will not also depart from them.”

Francis’ mother, who spoke amid tears, said, “Francis didn’t see his condition as a challenge. He was taking good care of me and my sick husband. We were proud of him despite his situation until SARS killed him and threw us in sorrow.”

The old parents, however, called on the Lagos State governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, to help them get justice.

Sunday Idun, the younger brother of the deceased, said government and the police authorities deliberately neglected the family despite efforts to get justice.

He said, “Government, police, and others deliberately neglected us because we are poor. After SARS officer, Scoda, killed my brother, they took his corpse away and kept it away from us with the hope that they will throw it away in order to bury the case. It took series of efforts to locate his corpse among the corpses prepared for mass burial.

“After this, some of their officers at Panti, Yaba, started extorting us, saying they would investigate the case. After three months of being on the case, we had to resolve to get the corpse for burial in our village. And since then, nobody from the state government or the Police has said a word about my brother’s death. But I know if he was a son of a politician they would have given the case attention.”

Recall that Lagos State Government has said it will compensate the family of citizens who lost their lives in the hands of SARS men.

 

 

BREAKING! Ebonyi lawmakers give PDP 7 days ultimatum to zone Presidency to S’East

 

… say Secondus must remain National Chairman

AGNES NWORIE, ABAKALIKI

AHEAD of the February 2023 Presidential election, lawmakers in the Ebonyi State 6th Assembly have given the national body of the Peoples Democratic Party seven days ultimatum to zone the 2023 Presidential ticket to the South East or risk heavy consequences.

The Speaker of the House, Francis Nwifuru, made this known during a press conference organised in Abakaliki, the Ebonyi State capital, by the honourable members, on Monday, 48 hours after the defection rumour of Governor David Umahi.

They also warned that the National Chairman of PDP, Uche Secondus, should not be removed from his office for any reason.

During the briefing, which had in attendance 22 out of the 24 members of the state Assembly, the lawmakers insisted that “it is only appropriate in the spirit of democracy, equity, justice and fairness that the position of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria come 2023, be zoned to the South East.”

The Ebonyi 6th Assembly threw up names like “Peter Obi (Former PDP Vice Presidential Candidate in the 2019 election and former Governor of Anambra State); Sen. Anyim Pius Anyim (former Senate President and former Secretary to the Government of the Federation); Sen. Ike Ekweremmadu (former 3-time Deputy President of the Senate); Sen. Theodore Orji (former Governor of Abia State); Achike Udenwa (former governor of Imo State), and a host of others.”

The lawmakers said, “The unity of our beloved country, Nigeria, has always been hinged on the principles of equity, justice and fairness. It is on such conventional wisdom that the country has striven to grow and develop equally across all her geopolitical zones.

“In furtherance of the above principles, we, the Honourable Members of the sixth (6th) Ebonyi State House of Assembly, wish to draw the attention of our great Party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), to the rightful yearning of our industrious and peace-loving people of the South East Nigeria, that the position of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria come 29th May, 2023, be zoned to the South East.”

They added, “Since the inception of this democracy, the zone has paid its dues, having worked assiduously and massively voted for all the presidential candidates of our great party – Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), when the people of the South West in the year 1999 and 2003, the people of North West in 2007, the people of South South in 2011 and 2015, the people of the North East in 2019, all contested for Presidency.

“It is on record that since the inception of democracy in this country, from 1999 till date, the five (5) States of the South East have always delivered the presidential candidates of our great party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), 100 per cent.

“It is only appropriate in the spirit of democracy, equity, justice and fairness that the position of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria come 2023, be zoned to the South East. South East has presidential personalities, people who are globally renowned, reliable, acceptable, tested and trusted to the position; having discharged their duties efficiently and effectively in the positions held before now.”

Noting that there were qualified people who were very much available for this position, the legislators added, “We did not mention our Governors, not because they are not qualified, but these highly qualified persons are not holding positions currently and there are other eminent qualified Igbo leaders as well who are trusted, competent, capable and reliable. That tells you, gentlemen of the press, that we are not asking for what we don’t have, so our party should not turn this request down.

“On this note, we are giving our great party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), 7 days ultimatum to convocate the National Executive Committee of the party and zone the position of the Presidency to the South East Nigeria, especially as INEC has officially announced the date of the presidential elections. In no minimal measure, this will further develop and unite our dear country.

“Equally, the party should not contemplate to remove the National Chairman of the Party, Prince Uche Secundus as it is customary that the zone (South) from where the National Chairman comes from produces the Presidential Candidate of the Party.

“If this advice is not adhered to, it will further divide and destabilise the party along sectional and regional lines. Failure to adhere to these kind requests will cost our party heavily and we, the Honourable Members of the 6th Ebonyi State House of Assembly will leave no stone unturned in taking decisive actions to ensure that traditions and dividends of democracy are respected in our party.”

 

 

BREAKING! Police confirms jail break in Edo, says arms, ammunition carted away

 

LINUS CHIBUIKE

THE Nigeria Police has described the attacks on its facilities in Edo State, on Monday, by persons “posing as #EndSARS protesters” as unfortunate.

The Force, in a series of tweets via its official handle @PoliceNG, confirmed that protesters carted away arms and ammunition from the armoury and freed the suspects in custody before setting some of the facilities ablaze.

It, however, said the extent of the damage done could not be immediately ascertained.

The Police said, “@policeNG regrettably confirms the unfortunate attacks on Police Facilities – Ugbekun Police Station, Oba Market Police Station, and Idogbo Police Post by persons posing as #EndSARS protesters in Benin, Edo State, today, Monday, 19th October 2020.

“The extent of damage cannot be ascertained at the moment but the report indicates that the protesters carted away arms and ammunition from the armoury and freed the suspects in custody before setting some of the facilities ablaze.

“The Force is doing everything possible at the moment to bring the situation under control, protect lives of innocent citizens and prevent further attacks on any other critical infrastructure in the state.

“The Force is calling on parents/guardians to prevail on their children/wards to desist from acts of violence under any guise whatsoever.”

 

 

Gunshots as hoodlums break into Benin prison, set inmates free

 

ADEMETO ADELEKAN, BENIN

MANY prisoners reportedly escaped on Monday morning in Benin City, Edo State, as hoodlums attacked the correctional centre along Sapele Road.

Our correspondent gathered that there was heavy gunshot in the prison, popularly called White House, when prison officials confronted the hoodlums.

In the process, it was learnt that many prisoners were set free, when the hoodlums reportedly overpowered the prison officials, and broke the walls to free the inmates.

Our correspondent observed that many businesses, shops, including banks around the area were shut in panic, owing to the news that prisoners had escaped.

It was gathered that by the time the security agents could intervene considerably, many properties had been destroyed, especially in areas around the prison.

There were also sporadic gunshots by hoodlums around St. Saviours Anglican Church Road, Ikpoba/Okha Local Government Area of the state, which made residents run helter-skelter, while some motorists abandoned their vehicles.

 

 

#EndSARS: Protests continue in Abuja, as FG deploys soldiers

 

… Abuja Airport Road blocked

LINUS CHIBUIKE

BARELY 48 hours after the Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed, said the Federal Government would no longer fold its arms and watch the ongoing #EndSARS protests degenerate into chaos, heavily armed soldiers have been stationed in strategic locations in the Federal Capital Territory

The Military had also said it would begin an “Operation Crocodile Smile” but noted, in a separate statement, that this was not targeted at the protesters.

The soldiers were seen around protest areas on Monday.

They were mainly controlling traffic, and not molesting protesters, it was observed.

The Kubwa express, Central Bank of Nigeria headquarters, and AYA roundabout, among others, were manned.

Meanwhile, the Airport Road was also blocked by the protesters, a situation that caused serious gridlock and prevented many people from catching their flights.

An Uber driver, who simply identified himself as Victor, said he was not able to ply the road, and that a previous order he got was cancelled.

“But there is free flow of traffic in the Central and Wuse areas. I’ve been there today. I am currently in town, working,” he told our correspondent.

The #EndSARS protests have continued for more than one week, despite attempts by the Federal Government to calm protesters down.

The Federal Special Anti-Robbery Squad, which the youths rose up against, was scrapped and the prostesters’ five-point demand was also met.

But more demands, bearing on good governance, have been made, in addition to suspicion that the newly created Special Weapons and Tactics team created to replace SARS was a matter of dressing the defunct SARS in fresh robes.

 

 

#EndSARS: Protesters shut out civil servants in Alausa

 

FOLASHADE KEHINDE

#EndSARS protesters, on Monday, grounded activities at the Lagos State Secretariat in Alausa.

The entrances to the secretariat were blocked by the youths that have been protesting for days against police brutality, extra-judicial killings and insecurity, among others.

Civil servants, who had hoped to be able to work, were prevented from doing so, as some who had already found their ways into the secretariat before the gates were locked, were also trapped inside, The Point learnt.

A worker with the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency, who simply identified himself as Tajudeen, told our correspondent that he would find his way back home and seize the opportunity to rest again after the weekend.

“We knew this might happen. But some of my bosses were saying that those who refused to show up at work using #EndSARS as an excuse would be penalised. I was told that the protests might not be allowed to happen,” he said.

The protests, it was gathered, started at the Lagos State House of Assembly complex, while the protesters ensured that all gates were locked.

Another civil servant, who spoke to our correspondent, said she would rather stay at home until there was an all-clear to go to work.

“My husband was telling me to stay at home. I refused, saying all my colleagues said we must be at work. I didn’t find it too hard getting here. But when the momentum gathers, no one knows what could happen,” the lady, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, told our correspondent.

The gates at Adeyemi Borough Auditorium, Mosque area, and others have been blocked, according to her.

 

#EndSARS: Edo govt declares 24-hour curfew

 

ADEMETO ADELEKAN, BENIN

THE Edo State Government has imposed a 24-hour curfew across the state.

The state government said the curfew, which will take effect from 4pm, October 19, 2020 (Monday), became necessary, owing to the very disturbing incidents of vandalism and attacks on private individuals and institutions by hoodlums in the guise of #EndSARS protesters.

The Point had earlier reported that many prisoners escaped on Monday morning in Benin City, as hoodlums reportedly attacked the correctional centre along Sapele Road.

In the process, it was learnt that many prisoners were set free, when the hoodlums reportedly overpowered the prison officials, and broke the walls to free the inmates.

In a press statement signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Osarodion Ogie, the Edo government said it would not sit idly and watch hoodlums cause mayhem in the state.

The statement, titled, ‘Edo govt declares 24-hour curfew’, said, “This decision has become necessary because of the very disturbing incidents of vandalism and attacks on private individuals and institutions by hoodlums in the guise of #EndSARS protesters.

“While the government of Edo State respects the rights of its citizens to undertake legitimate protests, it cannot sit idly when hoodlums have taken laws into their hands to cause mayhem on innocent citizens and the state.

“By the directive, schools and businesses are to shut down activities accordingly. Those who cannot move safely are to stay put between now and 4pm till calmness is restored.

“Parents are advised to rein in their children, youths and wards, to forestall further breakdown of law and order.

“The responsibility of government is to protect lives and property and maintain law and order, therefore, anyone found outside in violation of the curfew would be dealt with according to the law.”

 

 

#EndSARS: Governors concerned about hunger, anger in the land – Fayemi

 

BY REBECCA AJANI

… urges protesters to end agitation

GOVERNOR Kayode Fayemi of Ekiti State has said he and his colleagues in the Nigeria Governors’ Forum are concerned about discontent, hunger and anger in the country and will be ready to work with other stakeholders to find a lasting solution.

Fayemi, who is the NGF Chairman, said the raging nationwide EndSARS protests resulted from years of pent-up emotion, anger and hunger in the land, adding that the governors were committed to larger reform of the polity and not only the much taunted Police reform.

The Governor spoke on Sunday at the Special thanksgiving mass held at St. Patrick’s Catholic Cathedral, Old Garage, Ado Ekiti, as part of activities to mark the second anniversary of his administration in office.

Fayemi said he understood the frustration of the young Nigerian Citizens who had taken to the streets for the past one week, noting that he had used his younger years to participate in similar protests against bad governance, especially military dictatorship.

He lent his voice to the view of the Catholic Bishop of Ekiti Diocese, the Most Reverend Felix Ajakaye, who had called for an immediate suspension of the nationwide protests for the authorities to act on the protesters’ demand.

“Myself and my colleagues are concerned and we are committed to reforms not just about SARS because we will be making a mistake that the general disaffection in the land is all about SARS.

“Like Your Lordship (the Bishop) had said, the government should be allowed to address the demands that have been made.”

The Governor said he would always be thankful to God for giving him the grace to serve Ekiti people again, saying he sees himself as an instrument in God’s hands and sees the governorship seat as missionary work.

“If I had gotten my second term normally, I would have ceased being governor now and I know I wouldn’t have been NGF Chairman now. God has a purpose for our lives,” he added.

Speaking on the wave of protests rocking the country on complaints of police brutality in his sermon, Bishop Ajakaye called for an immediate end to the protests to allow the authorities to implement police reforms.

The cleric also urged the Federal Government to address the grievances of Nigerians on the state of the nation, insecurity, insurgency and hardship being faced in the country.

As the Ekiti State Security Network (Amotekun) is launched on Monday, Bishop Ajakaye admonished its operatives to be apolitical and work with integrity and fear of God.

He further called for a synergy between security agencies in Ekiti, including the Amotekun operatives to make the state safe for everybody to live in.

He said, “The Federal Government should listen to the grievances of the people not only on EndSARS but on terrorism and other things that are wrong in our country. EndSARS protest should end, leaders’ indifference to people’s life, bad governance, insincerity and distrust should end.

“There is hunger and anger in the land and the government should act promptly. The protesters should suspend their protest immediately because if it continues, it may be counterproductive. We have those among them who are using the protest to protect their criminal activity.”

 

The service was attended by the Ondo State Governor, Rotimi Akeredolu; Ekiti State Deputy Governor, Bisi Egbeyemi; Ondo State Deputy Governor-elect, Lucky Ayedatiwa; Ekiti State First Lady, Bisi Fayemi; former Ekiti State Governor, and now Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Niyi Adebayo; among others.

Fayemi, who described himself as a product of God’s mercy, sought for forgiveness from those who he might have offended in the discharge of his duties as the State’s Chief Executive.

He said he had sworn to an oath to do what was just and fair, noting that his actions so far in office were based on fairness and justice.

Speaking on the state of the nation, Fayemi said, “There is a lot of anger in the land, there is a lot of hunger in the land, pent-up emotion. There is disillusionment in the land. As a young man who spent much time in the barricades protesting bad governance, I can understand what is going on now.

 

Soji Akanbi mourns Awo’s daughter, says ‘I remain committed to preserving Baba’s legacy’

 

BY REBECCA AJANI

CHAIRMAN, Dynasty Airline Management, Senator Adesoji Akanbi, has commiserated with the Awolowo family on the passing of Rev (Mrs) Omotola Oyediran, the first daughter of the late Obafemi Awolowo.

Akanbi, who represented Oyo South Senatorial District in the 8th National Assembly, described the late Oyediran as a rare personality who represented true and selfless leadership just like her father.

In a tribute, titled, ‘Farewell: Tribute to late Mrs Omotola Oyediran (Nee Awolowo)’, he noted that the late Chairman of Tribune Newspapers, had, along with her husband, built “their own legacy of professionalism, honesty, loyalty to the Yoruba nation and patriotism as Nigerians.”

“Along with her husband, the foremost Professor of Preventive & Social Medicine, and Administrator, Allen Bankole Oladunmoye Olukayode Oyediran, they have built their own legacy of professionalism, honesty, loyalty to the Yoruba nation and patriotism as Nigerians,” the former lawmaker, who is the Okanlomo of Ibadanland, said.

Oyediran died peacefully, at about 12pm on Friday, a few weeks to her 80th birthday, The Point had reported.

The Tribute:

I received with shock, the news of the sudden passing away of Mrs Omotola Oyediran, the Chairman, African Newspapers of Nigeria, publishers of the Nigerian Tribune and first daughter of the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo.

Mama Oyediran, just like Baba Awolowo, represents true and selfless leadership; the type our generation needs and should be enjoying for a very long time. This is why I am particularly pained by her death at a time like this when Nigerian youths are going through their toughest time.

Being born of the great Awo brings a great responsibility to maintain high standards in almost everything and she excelled at this.

Along with her husband, the foremost Professor of Preventive & Social Medicine, and Administrator, Allen Bankole Oladunmoye Olukayode Oyediran, they have built their own legacy of professionalism, honesty, loyalty to the Yoruba nation and patriotism as Nigerians.

I remember her words to me on September 18, 2017 at Methodist Basic School, Agbeni, Ibadan, when we handed over reconstructed buildings and school infrastructure to the management of the school.

While appreciating our investment in education and particularly our efforts in sustaining the legacy of the first Premier of the old Western Region, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, she explained how important education is to the future of our dear nation.

She highlighted how excited she was that a Muslim like me would surrender myself to advance works in the Christian community and how we must all rise above religious differences to prioritize humanity and do good.

Her words still ring loud in my mind and I hold them closely to my heart. Just like her father, Baba Awolowo, she will remain an everlasting light, for her wisdom, leadership, mentoring and great examples in the media and education sector.

As I promised you Mama, I will remain committed to my promise to preserve the heritage and investments of Chief Obafemi Awolowo in education through support funding of education.

My wife whom you fondly called your adopted daughter and I are deeply saddened. Our hearts are heavy but we take solace in the good works Mama has done and in the legacy of uprightness and love for humanity which will keep us going and inspired to do more for humanity.

On behalf of my family and the progressive people of Oyo state, I sympathise with the husband, Prof. A. B. O. O. Oyediran and children of the late Mrs Omotola Oyediran, the entire family of late Chief Obafemi Awolowo, as well as the management and staff of Nigerian Tribune.

 

 

Fayemi raises panel on SARS’ brutality, rights abuses

 

BY REBECCA AJANI

… to revisit creation of LCDAs

GOVERNOR Kayode Fayemi of Ekiti State has revealed that his administration is taking steps to ensure justice for victims of police brutality in the state through the setting up a Panel of Enquiry and Restitution for Victims of SARS and Related Abuses.

He also unfolded plans by his administration to revisit the creation of the Local Council Development Areas to develop the grassroots and bring governance closer to the people, promising to forward a bill to that effect for immediate consideration.

According to a statement on Saturday, Fayemi spoke on Friday while presenting the State of the State Address on the floor of the State House of Assembly, Ado-Ekiti, before the state legislators and other distinguished personalities, as part of activities marking his two years in office.

The State of the State Address was attended by the Deputy Governor, Otunba Bisi Egbeyemi; the First Lady, Bisi Fayemi; House of Representatives member, Femi Bamisile; members of the State Executive Council and traditional rulers, led by the Chairman of the State Council of Obas/Alawe of Ilawe Ekiti, Oba Adebanji Alabi, among others.

Governor Fayemi, who had earlier in the morning, addressed a large crowd of EndSARS protesters at the Fajuyi area of Ado-Ekiti, said his administration was setting up a panel to look into cases of human rights abuses and brutality by the disbanded squad.

He said, “In line with the recommendation of the National Economic Council, I have today constituted a Panel of Enquiry and Restitution for Victims of SARS Related Abuses in the State.

“The panel will look at all verifiable cases of SARS brutality and fatality and ensure offending SARS officers are identified and prosecuted appropriately while victims or their families are duly compensated.

“Membership of the panel will include a retired judge of the State High Court as Chairperson, and representation from Civil Society Organisations, including youth groups.”

“The Honourable Attorney-General will publish additional details, including giving information on how our citizens can access the panel,” Fayemi added.

Addressing the agitation for a revisit of the Local Council Development Areas that were dissolved by the immediate past administration, Governor Fayemi said his administration, having reviewed the development, had decided to revisit the issue and would be forwarding a Bill to the Assembly for consideration.

He said, “After extensive consultations, my administration has decided to revisit the creation of Local Government Development Areas.

“I have therefore directed the Honourable Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice to re-present a Bill for the establishment of Local Government Development Areas in Ekiti State for the immediate consideration of the State Executive Council and subsequently for Legislative scrutiny.”

“May I use this opportunity to appeal to this House to give the Bill the urgent consideration that it deserves,” the Governor said, with an applause from the audience.

Presenting the scorecard of his administration in the last two years backed with relevant statistics, the Governor said appreciable progress had been made in the execution of life changing policies and projects for the benefit of Ekiti people, despite the prevailing economic challenges.

The statement said, “The Governor noted that the five pillars of governance which include Agriculture and Rural Development, Governance, Infrastructure and Industrial Development, Knowledge Economy and Social Investments were being diligently pursued to improve the standard of living of the people.

“He noted that the first year in office was used to lay a solid foundation for the legacy projects which are now in various stages of completion, adding however, that the economic challenges brought about by COVID-19 pandemic led to the review of the 2020 Budget.”

The Governor was also quoted as saying, “Despite the challenges brought on by COVID-19 pandemic, we have remained committed to completing all unfinished projects by previous administrations and following through with those we initiated.

“We have done this to demonstrate that regardless of our partisan leanings, Ekiti State remains our common heritage, and we must do all we can to lay a foundation for sustainable development.

“Today, I address you with restrained joy but a strong conviction that despite the challenges we have faced in the past year, we are making visible progress and steady strides towards our goals for Ekiti.”

 

 

#EndSARS: Save the people, Aisha tells Buhari, Service Chiefs

 

LINUS CHIBUIKE

The #EndSARS protests have continued with greater intensity across the country.

In Abuja, the protesters ignored the notice of a ban on their activities by the Federal Capital Territory Administration.

The Point had reported that despite the statement by the Administration banning the protests, owing to the violation of COVID-19 protocols, the protesters stormed the National Assembly Complex on Thursday, to further press home their demands and continued their protests on Friday through Saturday.

Thugs have also attacked peaceful protesters, killing about five people in Lagos, Osun and Edo states.

In Osun, no fewer than two persons were reportedly killed during the #EndSARS protest that rocked Osogbo, Osun State capital on Saturday.

Several others were severely injured when some armed hoodlums stormed the protest ground around 5:00pm.

The State Governor, Gboyega Oyetola, and his convoy were also attacked by the armed thugs that stormed the EndSARS protest ground while the Governor was addressing the protesters.

THE wife of the President, Aisha Buhari, has joined the calls for an end to oppression, police brutality and insecurity in Nigeria.

Aisha, on Saturday, indicated her desire for President Muhammadu Buhari and service chiefs to save Nigerians through a video she tweeted.

She attached a caption, “Save the People” to a video of a meeting Buhari held with service chiefs, which she tweeted on Saturday. Save the People was communicated in Hausa language as #Achechijamaa.

The tweet was also accompanied by a background song in Hausa.

“Please look at our condition. We need your help. The North is crying. There is insincerity. Our blood is being spilled. Our property is being destroyed. Intervene in our situation, baba,” the song said.

Aisha Buhari is known for her pro-people stance on many issues of national importance, an attribute that has endeared her to Nigerians across socio-political and ethnic divides, ADCNEWS report.

 

 

We may detain Americans over prosecutions, China warns US – Report

 

THE Chinese Government has warned Washington it may detain Americans in China in response to the Justice Department’s prosecution of Chinese military-affiliated scholars, the Wall Street Journal reported on Saturday.

The newspaper, citing unnamed people familiar with the matter, said Chinese officials had issued repeated warnings through multiple channels to US government officials.

The paper said China’s message was the United States should end prosecutions of Chinese scholars in US courts, or Americans in China could find themselves in violation of Chinese law.

A State Department advisory on September 14 warning against travel to China said the Chinese government uses arbitrary detention and exit bans for US citizens and others “to gain bargaining leverage over foreign governments.”

The White House referred questions to the State Department, which said in an emailed statement that it stresses “to the Chinese government – including at the highest levels – our concern about China’s coercive use of exit bans on US citizens and citizens of other countries, and will continue to do so until we see a transparent and fair process.”

The Chinese Embassy in Washington did not respond to a request for comment on Saturday.

 

The Trump administration has increasingly accused China of suing cyber operations and espionage to steal US technological, military and other know-how in a strategy to supplant the United States as the world’s leading financial and military power. Beijing denies the allegations.

In July, the Justice Department said the FBI had arrested three Chinese nationals for allegedly concealing memberships in the Peoples Liberation Army when applying for visas to conduct research at US academic institutions.

Last month, the United States said it had revoked visas for more than 1,000 Chinese nationals under a presidential measure denying entry to students and researchers deemed security risks, a move China called a violation of human rights.

At the time, a State Department spokeswoman said the United States continued to welcome “legitimate students and scholars from China who do not further the Chinese Communist Party’s goals of military dominance.”

– REUTERS

 

US woman faces first federal execution since 1953

THE United States is to execute a female federal inmate for the first time in almost 70 years, the Justice Department said.

Lisa Montgomery strangled a pregnant woman in Missouri before cutting out and kidnapping the baby in 2004.

She is due to be given a lethal injection in Indiana on 8 December.

The last woman to be executed by the US government was Bonnie Heady, who died in a gas chamber in Missouri in 1953, according to the Death Penalty Information Center.

The federal execution of Brandon Bernard, who with his accomplices murdered two youth ministers in 1999, has also been scheduled for December.

US Attorney General William Barr said the crimes were “especially heinous murders”.

Last year, the Trump administration said it would resume federal executions, the British Broadcasting Corporation reports.

Who is Lisa Montgomery?

In December 2004, Montgomery drove from Kansas to the home of Bobbie Jo Stinnett, in Missouri, purportedly to purchase a puppy, according to a Department of Justice press release.

“Once inside the residence, Montgomery attacked and strangled Stinnett – who was eight months pregnant – until the victim lost consciousness,” it says.

“Using a kitchen knife, Montgomery then cut into Stinnett’s abdomen, causing her to regain consciousness. A struggle ensued, and Montgomery strangled Stinnett to death. Montgomery then removed the baby from Stinnett’s body, took the baby with her, and attempted to pass it off as her own.”

In 2007, a jury found Montgomery guilty of federal kidnapping resulting in death, and unanimously recommended a death sentence.

But Montgomery’s lawyers say she experienced brain damage from beatings as a child and is mentally unwell, so should not face the death penalty.

 

Federal and state executions – what’s the difference?

Under the US justice system, crimes can be tried either in federal courts, at a national level, or in state courts, at a regional level.

Certain crimes, such as counterfeiting currency or mail theft, are automatically tried at a federal level, as are cases in which the US is a party or those which involve constitutional violations. Others can be tried in federal courts based on the severity of the crimes.

The death penalty was outlawed at state and federal level by a 1972 Supreme Court decision that cancelled all existing death penalty statutes.

A 1976 Supreme Court decision allowed states to reinstate the death penalty and in 1988 the government passed legislation that made it available again at federal level.

According to data collected by the Death Penalty Information Center, 78 people were sentenced to death in federal cases between 1988 and 2018 but only three were executed.

The executions of Montgomery and Bernard will be the eighth and ninth the federal government has carried out this year.

Why the change in rules on executions?

The Trump administration said it would resume federal executions after a long hiatus last year.

In a statement at the time, the attorney general said, “Under administrations of both parties, the Department of Justice has sought the death penalty against the worst criminals.

“The Justice Department upholds the rule of law – and we owe it to the victims and their families to carry forward the sentence imposed by our justice system.”

– BBC

 

Tinubu not sponsoring #EndSARS protesters – Spokesman

 

BY FOLASHADE KEHINDE

NATIONAL Leader of the All Progressives Congress, Bola Tinubu, has described reports that he is one of those sponsoring the ongoing #EndSARS protests in the country as the “height of illogicality.”

His spokesperson, Tunde Rahman, said in a statement on Saturday that his principal could not have been a sponsor of the protests when he had also been labelled a target by the organisers.

Rahman argued that the sponsors of what he called fake news had forgotten that the protest was so widespread and cut across the country.

He reacted based on the conviction that there was a need “to set the facts and record straight for fear that such a fake story may be taken on its face value by some unwary and gullible persons.”

Rahman said, “Asiwaju Tinubu could not have sponsored the #EndSARS protest that has blocked one of the main entries into and out of Lagos and one of the economic arteries of the Lagos State Government. He could also not have sponsored such a protest where he too has been labeled a target by the organisers.

“Secondly, whereas Asiwaju Tinubu believes in the right of Nigerians to freedom of expression, assembly, and protest where and when necessary, he has always canvassed the need for people to explore peaceful channels to ventilate their views and demands.”

He noted, “He (Tinubu) believes the #EndSARS protesters have made their demands, which the Federal Government is studying. Like most Nigerians, Asiwaju believes that SARS’ brutality and untoward conduct against innocent youths and other Nigerians have gone on for too long and that security outfit ought to be disbanded as demanded by the protesters.

“Asiwaju Tinubu believes it is now time for our youths to wait, exercise restraint for dialogue and reform to commence. It is therefore the height of illogicality to ascribe the sponsorship of the protest to Asiwaju.”

 

 

#EndSARS: Attack on Oyetola, a condemnable act – Akeredolu

BY AYO ESAN

CHAIRMAN of the South West Governors’ Forum and Governor of Ondo State, Rotimi Akeredolu, has condemned in strong terms, Saturday’s attack on the Governor of Osun State, Gboyega Oyetola, at the #EndSARS protest ground in Osogbo, the state capital.

Akeredolu described the attack as unwarranted, misdirected and repulsive, adding that the genuine movement was already being hijacked by politicians to visit their frustrations on perceived opponents.

In a release signed by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and  Publicity, Ojo Oyewande, Akeredolu said, “Undoubtedly, #endSARS movement had a popular and receptive attitude to it by majority of Nigerians, including policy makers, who have seen in it, an opportunity to deepen concern and redirect efforts towards veritable reforms aimed at achieving positive results.

“All the same, the desirability or otherwise of this movement appears to have come under a curious integrity test following the misdirected anger visited on Governor Oyetola. This act is a clear act of terrorism under the guise of a civil and supposedly peaceful protest that has been hijacked by criminals and hoodlums hired by politicians. This is more so, that dangerous weapons were said to have been deployed in the ignoble act.

“Nothing more describes and represents this pernicious act as repulsive. It is, therefore, pertinent to call on the organisers to rein in stakeholders involved in the #EndSARS protests so as to stratify between those with genuine, altruistic desires for reforms and elements who have offered themselves as mercenaries to unleash mayhem on innocent people.”

The newly re-elected Governor added, “It must be noted that State Governors stand in between two inescapable points of challenges: while they ought to be Chief Security Officers in their respective states, are indeed, compelled to act as such, the workability of such still remains some distance away from reality.

“In order words, the attack on Governor Oyetola or any other Governor anywhere in the country is a clear infliction of double jeopardy. No Governor is in charge of any Police Formation, Unit or Department.”

He called on youths to hold firm their belief in the Nigerian Project and press for whatever is desirable to make it work.

He, nonetheless, admonished them not to be useful tools in the hands of politicians at this trying period.

 

 

#EndSARS: We won’t allow anarchy in Nigeria, FG tells protesters

 

THE Federal Government has warned that it will not allow the country to be thrown into anarchy following the violence that has trailed the #EndSARS protests.

The Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, stated this on Saturday when he featured on a late-night Nigeria Television Authority news programme, “Weekend File”.

The programme was entitled, “EndSARS Protest: The Way Forward”.

The minister said the protests had been hijacked by hoodlums and people with ulterior agenda.

He noted that while the original conveners of the protests might have meant well, it was obvious that they were no longer in control of the initiative.

“Peaceful protest is an integral part of democracy and that is why the Federal Government in the last 11 days has treated the protesters in a very civilised manner.

“But, if you look at what happened to the governor of Osun State, it has gone completely beyond peaceful protest against excesses and abuse of power by the police.

“There is nowhere in the world where a government will fold its arms and allow the country to descend into anarchy.

“We are no longer dealing with #EndSARS but a volatile situation that can lead to anarchy if the government does not take some very firm steps to protect the lives and livelihood of innocent Nigerians,” he said.

The minister added that the protests had gone beyond being peaceful because lives had been lost and innocent Nigerians, including workers and students, were passing through harrowing experiences.

Specifically, he said because the protesters were blocking the roads and highway, workers were finding it difficult to get to their offices and back home while many Nigerians were stranded on the roads.

“We have nothing against peaceful protest but there are civilised ways of doing so.

“This is by going to a venue where you are not going to disturb other Nigerians because where your own right stops, other persons’ rights begin,” he said.

– NAN

 

#ENDSARS Protest: A revolution foretold?

BY MICHAEL WEST

I shudder to entertain my fear since the #EndSARS protest started as we might actually be at the threshold of a prolonged agitation that may likely blow the wind of sweeping changes that are long overdue. Should the protest extend beyond next week, government will require a careful and strategic approach to manage the situation. The spontaneous nature of the protest in many states across the country should get government strategists and handlers thinking. They need to respond to the situation with equanimity to stave off the protest from slipping out of control. The most difficult protest to contain or control is a protest without faces or coordinators. Therefore, extreme caution is needed to manage this delicate moment. Employing intimidation, repression or confrontation may escalate the already tensed situation.

Like what happened in Ecuador where a nationwide protest became a tool to express bottled up discontent and oppression of the masses over the years, I see the on-going protest beyond the call for an end to SARS and its atrocities. In a matter of days, political and economic agitations may become a dimension that will further prolong the protest until some fundamental national questions are frontally addressed. I see the possibility of the protest leading to outright restructuring of the country. I see the protest ushering some reprieve for long cheated and deprived segments of this country. I see federal character principle at the core leadership structure. I see sufficient devolution of powers to the three tiers of government. Should the beneficiaries of the present lop-sidedness resist the change, the inevitable consequence may be unpredictable.
Some people are of the opinion that since the government is yielding to the demands of the protesters, they should calm down and allow for the implementation of their demands. But there’s lack of trust and confidence in the government that it will do what it promised. Twice in the past, SARS has either been pronounced disbanded or reformed but the atrocities of its operatives kept soaring. Therefore, until evident actions are seen, there may be no stopping the protest. Also, the swift change of name from SARS to SWAT at the peak of the protest is ill-timed, ill-advised and suspect. The hasty action may keep the youths longer on the streets as #StopSWAT is now trending in cyberspace.
“A common trend in an emerging revolution is that the demands keep increasing. As government tries to respond, more demands from the existing ones will surface. The circle of demands will continue like that until government becomes overwhelmed.”

President Muhammadu Buhari administration should learn from other countries where similar nationwide protests have rocked their spaces in the past. Our government should study how they managed the situation and successfully navigated their ways through. It should also learn from how such protests had snowballed into a revolution which ultimately consumed the government in power due to recalcitrance and acts of impunity. I hope this will not be the eventual situation with us.
In Chile for example, while demonstrators clashed with security forces on a Friday evening, President Sebastián Piñera was pictured dining in an upmarket Italian restaurant – a sign, some said, reflected the chasm between Chile’s political elite and the people on the streets. Chile is one of Latin America’s wealthiest countries, but, like Nigeria, also one of its most unequal – it has the worst levels of income equality among the 36 member nations of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).

In Ecuador for example, the government backtracked and suspended its fare hike in an effort to quell the protests. But the protests continued, growing to take in wider grievances. Reuters news agency quoted a protesting student as saying “This is not a simple protest over the rise of metro fares, this is an outpouring for years of oppression that have hit mainly the poorest.”
Lebanon has seen a similar unrest with plans to tax WhatsApp calls prompting wider protests about economic problems, inequality and corruption. Protests of this nature have also taken place in countries including the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, Spain, Austria, France and New Zealand. Participants have glued and chained themselves to roads and vehicles, and tried to disrupt busy city centres.

In July/August 2019, Omoyele Sowore-led #RevolutionNow protest was swirling the political space. I knew it won’t go far because the mobilisation and sensitization were grossly inadequate. More so, the convener, Sowore, was blackmailed as a frustrated political jobber who resorted to calling for a revolution after losing at the ballot to the incumbent President Mohammadu Buhari. He was arrested, detained for weeks and subsequently charged to court. He was later granted bail on some stringent conditions.
A prophetic dimension was introduced to the #RevolutionNow protest as a video containing a prophecy by Prophet T. B. Joshua suddenly went viral on the Internet. For me, I don’t subscribe to T. B. Joshua’s spiritual authority for reasons known to discerning Christians. However, I solemnly believe that everybody is endowed with innate talents and spiritual gifts from the Creator. One does not have to be a Prophet or an Alfa to see visions or receive revelations in dreams. The Bible says the “gifts of God is without repentance” – meaning that whatever gift or talent whether physical, mental or spiritual that God has created one with is never withdrawn under no circumstance. Once God gifts you any natural or spiritual endowment, it is permanent. It is on that premise that I watched and started observing what T. B. Joshua has said in the video.
He started by enjoining the government to “carry the youths along.” He told his congregation to please note and document the prophecy and “follow it up.” He asserted that “God showed me” the revelation. It is not a press statement but “a revelation from God.” He went further to say “I’m seeing a revolution! And every revolution starts like a protest. I’m seeing people take to the streets. At the beginning, the protest will be quelled by security forces.” But later, a renewed protest, he said, will spring up and it will usher in a revolution. “You can stop protest but nobody can stop revolution because everybody will be ready to go for it. This I see happen. Nigeria, pray!” He gave the prophecy on Sunday, July 14, 2013.

So, when Buhari-led government subdued Sowore-led #RevolutionNow protest, I ticked the first part of the prophecy as being fulfilled. Then, I was keenly waiting for the fulfilment of the second and final part. When the on-going agitation started last week, I began to feel this might be it. I think so because many Nigerians have had similar dreams or revelations about Nigeria before now. The spate of the protest is beyond expectation. Then, the protest is faceless. This makes it much more delicate. Virtually all protests that snowballed into revolutions across the world are usually faceless because there are no arrowheads, leaders or coordinators to discuss or negotiate with.
A common trend in an emerging revolution is that the demands keep increasing. As government tries to respond, more demands from the existing ones will surface. The circle of demands will continue like that until government becomes overwhelmed. In the face of mass action like this, the use of force will be counter-productive as it will rather aggravate the fragility of the situation. In days to come if the protest is not diffused, Nigeria may become an emergency situation to the global community. And in an event that the United Nations decides to step in to contain the situation, only God can tell if the country called Nigeria will still be available on the map of the world.

West wrote via mikeawe@yahoo.co.uk

 

 

#EndSARS: How Nigerian Police murdered my cousin in 2013 – Canadian Minister

BY LINUS CHIBUIKE

CANADIAN Minister of Justice, Kaycee Madu, has added his voice to the calls for an end to police brutality and extra-judicial killings in Nigeria, alleging that his cousin, Chrisantus Nwabueze Korie, was murdered by the Nigerian Police in 2013.

Madu, a Nigerian, is the Minister of Justice and Solicitor General of Alberta, in Canada, North America.

He said in a series of tweets on his verified handle that the Police also refused to investigate the circumstances surrounding the murder of his cousin.

Madu therefore said he supported the #EndSARS protests across Nigeria, noting that the Nigerian government must protect its citizens and deliver substantive police reform.

He tweeted, “I support the people of Nigeria as they protest to end police brutality and extrajudicial killings. My own cousin Chrisantus Nwabueze Korie, was murdered by Nigeria Police in April 2013.

“Despite my best efforts, the police would not investigate his murder and did everything to obstruct. I also helped to petition a committee of Nigeria’s National Assembly to probe the killing and report back to the House within a timely manner.

“Fundamental human rights like peace, security and freedom from police brutality are universal. The Nigerian government has an obligation to protect its citizens and deliver substantive police reform.

“Changing the name of SARS and reconstituting it without significant reform won’t be sufficient to satisfy the cry of the Nigerian people for justice.

“Edmund Burke wrote that, ‘the only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.’ I encourage all Nigerians to stand up and be heard.”

 

#EndSARS: Buhari meets Senate President, Gbajabiamila

 

BY LINUS CHIBUIKE

PRESIDENT Muhammadu Buhari is currently meeting with Senate President Ahmad Lawan and Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila, over the ongoing protests against police brutality in Nigeria.

Personal Assistant to the President on New Media, Bashir Ahmad, disclosed this via his Twitter handle: @BashirAhmaad.

“President @MBuhari currently meeting with Senate President, @DrAhmadLawan and Speaker, @femigbaja on the ongoing #EndPoliceBrutality protests,” he tweeted.

The #EndSARS protests have continued across Nigeria despite the scrapping of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad by the Inspector-General of Police, Mohammed Adamu.

Details later…

 

 

#EndSARS: Nigerian youths calling for an end to impunity, looting, vote buying – Nwosu, ADC Chairman

 

BY AYO ESAN

THE African Democratic Congress has called on the President Muhammadu Buhari administration to urgently address the concerns of Nigerian youths to avoid a situation that no one would be able to control.

The party said the lingering #EndSARS protests had revealed the intensity of the anger in the land, adding that people were fed up with both the ruling All Progressives Congress and the Peoples Democratic Party, as a result of the failure of the two parties to harness the vast resources of the country for sustainable growth and development over the years.

A statement signed by the National Chairman, ADC, Chief Ralphs Nwosu, said the time had come for Nigerians to snatch the destiny of this great nation from the claws of enemies of the economy who had held the country to ransom for too long.

The statement said, “The youths are saying, no Buhari, no Atiku. What they are saying is that they are tired of the parties that have ruled so far. We need a fresh paradigm. They are smart kids and Nigerians should not under-estimate what can happen in the next few days.

“When a people have been robbed for far too long, of the same resources they took part in creating, this is usually the end result. This is no longer about EndSARS or EndSWAT. It is about End Impunity, End Terrorism, End Looting, End Vote Buying, End Leadership Insensitivity.”

Nwosu, however, urged the APC administration to redeem whatever was left of its image and address every point on the demand of the peaceful protesters, saying the days of hiding behind a finger had ended.

The party said, “While we are a peace loving party built on integrity and respect for human and constitutional rights, we would stand solidly by calls to right the numerous wrongs in our society.

“Police brutality, especially by the now defunct Federal Special Anti-Robbery Squad, was at a scary level until this strong movement against it. Extra-judicial killings were being treated like the norm in a sane society; and victims’ families were left helpless, most times, in situations where killer officers were shielded by superior accomplices. It is only in order for people to rise and say ‘Enough is Enough.'”

The ADC therefore urged the youth not to be intimidated by enemies of the nation in their struggle for the realisation of a near ideal society.

“We declare our solidarity with the youths and call on the Federal Government to immediately set machinery in motion to ensure that their demands are genuinely met. The youths have started a revolution that their parents have shied away from. We only need to tread cautiously,” it said.

The party, however, warned political forces not to hijack the protests, by using thugs to disrupt the process and distort the essence of the struggle.

 

 

#EndSARS: Two feared killed, scores injured in Osogbo

 

BY TIMOTHY AGBOR, OSOGBO

NO fewer than two persons have been reportedly killed during the #EndSARS protest that rocked Osogbo, Osun State capital on Saturday.

Several others were severely injured when some armed hoodlums stormed the protest ground around 5:00pm.

The State Governor, Gboyega Oyetola, and his convoy were also attacked by the armed thugs that stormed the EndSARS protest ground while the Governor was addressing the protesters.

The Governor was said to have escaped death by a whisker as vehicles in his convoy were severely damaged during the attack.

Hoodlums were said to have shot at the Governor’s convoy, throwing pebbles at the government officials that accompanied him to the protest ground.

Oyetola, flanked by some other Government officials, had joined protesters in the walk from Alekuwodo area to Olaiya junction, where he made attempts to address them.

The Point had reported that the protesters had demanded for the Governor’s apology for failing to have addressed them since they started the protest last week. They also asked him to see to the arrest and prosecution of ex-SARS officers who are found culpable of brutality and other human rights abuses.

However, when the governor was finally allowed to speak, he apologised for addressing them late and assured that their demands would be met.

While still addressing the youths, some unknown armed hoodlums stormed the scene and started shooting and hurling stones at the Governor. The Governor’s security aides immediately whisked Oyetola out of the already tensed protest ground.

Scores of yet to be identified protesters were said to have been severely injured as a stampede ensued shortly after the governor narrowly left the scene.

Some protesters who sustained severe injuries were said to have been rushed to Asubiaro State Hospital for medical attention while two youths were said to have been killed in the stampede.

When contacted on the telephone, the Public Relations Officer of the Osun State Police Command, Yemisi Opalola, said the Police were on top of the situation.

Opalola could not confirm the casualties but said that the violent protest would be investigated.

 

 

Fayemi upgrades 42-yr-old College of Education to University

 

BY BANYO TEMITAYO

GOVERNOR Kayode Fayemi of Ekiti State, on Friday, signed into law, a bill backing the upgrading of the College of Education Ikere- Ekiti to a University, as part of activities marking the second anniversary of his administration.

The institution will, under the new law, be known as the University of Education, Science and Technology, Ikere Ekiti.

Fayemi signed the bill into law at the Executive Council Chamber, Ado-Ekiti, in the presence of the Deputy Governor, Bisi Egbeyemi; Wife of Governor, Bisi Fayemi; Speaker of the House of Assembly, Funminiyi Afuye; Deputy Speaker, Hakeem Jamiu; members of the State House of Assembly, and members of the executive councils, among others.

The College of Education Ikere- Ekiti (formerly Ondo State College of Education) was established by an Edict on December 5, 1977.

The Governor explained that the signing into law of the legislation that backed the upgrading of the College to University was in realisation of his administration’s commitment to promoting knowledge economy in the state.

He also assured that his administration would continue to demonstrate commitment to the promotion of knowledge in the state.

Commending the Speaker and members of the State House of Assembly for passing the bill that enhanced the fulfilment of his administration’s drive to improve the lives of the people, Fayemi noted that the stress of passing the bill into law could be tedious and demanding.

According to him, the bill, which was passed independently by members of the House of Assembly as part of their constitutional responsibilities, was done in the best interest of the people of the state.

Fayemi, who noted that the three arms of Government were designed to complement one another for peace and good governance, promised that his administration would continue to promote harmonious working relationship with the legislators towards maintaining their institutional autonomy.

He said, “Mr. Speaker has already enumerated several bills that have been passed into law by the State Assembly but the one that assent is being given to today is the one that underscores the importance we attach to knowledge economy.

“I have no doubt that the new legislation I am about to sign will enhance our restoration agenda and make favourable impact in the lives of our people. The three arms of government as we all know are to complement one another for good governance, peace and harmony.

“I am glad that our lawmakers are living up to their constitutional responsibilities of legislation, representation, appropriation and oversight which they must continue to carry out with the larger interest of Ekiti people at the back of their mind.

“The effectiveness and efficiency of our lawmakers is also worthy of commendation. What they have done since they assumed office could only be possible where there is peace and harmony among the rank and file of the Assembly. This has further underscored the dedication and commitment to serving Ekiti people.

“This legislation we have signed into law is not just to the glory of Ikere Ekiti but the glory of Ekiti State in general and the benefit of humanity.”

Earlier, the Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Funminiyi Afuye, disclosed that the bill was one of the 32 bills passed by the sixth Assembly and signed into law by the Governor.

The Speaker explained that the passage of the bill was in response to the long agitation of the Ikere people and to promote and sustain the legacy of knowledge economy which is one of the cardinal programmes of the Fayemi-led administration.

“We are presenting the University of Education, Science and Technology, Ikere Ekiti law for your assent. This is a salutary initiative of your administration,” he said.

The provost, Prof. Olufemi Adeoluwa; and the Chairman, Governing Council of the College, Afolabi Ojuawo, said the event marked the realisation of the long expectation of the college.

They expressed readiness of the college to start on a fresh note, assuring that both the human and infrastructural resources needed for the smooth running of the institution were on ground.

 

 

#EndSARS: BRT operator suspends services, blames protests

 

PRIMERO Transport Services Limited, operator of Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) in Lagos State, has announced a suspension of its operations on Ikorodu and TBS routes due to the EndSARS protests.

The firm’s Head of Corporate Communications, Mr. Mutiu Yekeen, made the announcement in a statement on Saturday in Lagos.

“Following the ongoing protests in Lagos State and other parts of the country, Primero Transport Services Limited has suspended operations on the Ikorodu to TBS corridor for this weekend- Saturday, October 17 and Sunday 18.

“The protest which has impacted the operations of the company in the last week is on a three-day marathon stage this weekend.

“We will continue to monitor the situation and start operations as soon as the road is clear.

“We call on our esteemed commuters to bear with us during this period,” Yekeen said.

He said that the firm’s priority to convey commuters safely to their destinations every day, providing fast, affordable and convenient services to residents had been hindered by the protests.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the #ENDSARS protests over police brutality have continued to impact negatively on traffic as protesters hinder vehicular movements in major parts of the state.

Recall that the Lagos Bus Service Limited operator of Marcopolo high-capacity buses, also suspended operations on Thursday afternoon over a fear of attacks on buses, passengers, and staff members by the protesters.

The LBSL, however, resumed operations on Friday at 8:00 a.m.

– NAN

 

 

BREAKING! Scores injured as thugs attack Gov Oyetola at #EndSARS protest ground in Osogbo

 

BY TIMOTHY AGBOR, OSOGBO

GOVERNOR Gboyega Oyetola of Osun State and his convoy were on Saturday attacked by armed men at the #EndSARS protest ground in Osogbo.

The #EndSARS protest had turned violent in Osogbo as hoodlums attacked the Governor and damaged several government vehicles while he was addressing protesters.

Governor Oyetola had joined protesters in the walk from Alekuwodo area to Olaiya junction, singing with them and promising them that their demands would be looked into.

He said he supported their peaceful agitations, which he said was part of the democratic process.

However, while still addressing the youths, the armed men and women started shooting and hurling stones at the Governor’s car.

Scores of yet to be identified people were severely injured as a stampede ensued shortly after the governor addressed the protesters.

Some protesters who sustained severe injuries were rushed to Asubiaro State Hospital for medical attention.

Before the protest was disrupted by the suspected thugs, Governor Oyetola had addressed the protesters where he assured them that all those who sustained any form of injuries during attacks on #EndSARS protesters would be taken care of by the state government.

The Governor had been reprimanded by the protesters for not identifying with them publicly after about nine days of protest against Police brutality in the state before he was allowed to speak.

Oyetola, who first apologised for not being able to address them since the protest started in the state assured the protesters that he believed in the genuine intention of the protest.

He told the protesters that the Presidency had directed all state governors to constitute a judicial panel of inquiry to look into the SARS activities before it was disbanded.

The atmosphere later became tense with the protesters not given any chance of peace.

Suspected thugs started throwing dangerous objects at the Governor’s convoy, including the vehicle that scampered the Governor for safety.

 

 

Explosion: NNPC commiserates with Lagos, victims

THE Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation has commiserated with the Lagos State Government and victims of the tanker explosion which occurred on the Otedola Bridge in the early hours of Saturday, October 17, 2020.

The Group Managing Director of the NNPC, Malam Mele Kyari, in a statement signed by the Corporation’s Group General Manager, Group Public Affairs Division, Dr Kennie Obateru, said that he felt particularly sad about the reoccurrence of these events.

According to him, the incidents could have been avoided.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the incident occurred when a container truck loaded with fabric experienced brakes failure and collided with a 33,000 litres fuel tanker loaded with Premium motor spirit (PMS), belonging to a downstream operator.

Upon the crash, there was fire outbreak which led to the explosion which was later extinguished by officers of the Lagos State Fire Service.

No fatality was, however, recorded in the incidence.

Kyari admonished motorists and downstream operators to continue to ensure strict adherence to safety rules and regulations in order to avoid these unfortunate incidents that always lead to loss of lives and property.

– NAN

 

 

Two priests accused in Vatican’s first sexual abuse trial

 

TWO Catholic priests have gone on trial in the Vatican, marking the first time the city state has prosecuted a case of alleged sexual abuse.

Gabriele Martinelli, 28, is accused of sexually assaulting an altar boy between 2007 and 2012.

Enrico Radice, 72, is charged with covering up the alleged assault while he was rector of the theological school where it is claimed the abuse happened.

Neither man has submitted a plea or commented on the case.

While scores of priests have faced abuse charges around the world, the Vatican has never held a trial concerning allegations of sexual abuse within its own walls.

The trial, which began with a short hearing on Wednesday, is symbolic as the Vatican is home to the spiritual leadership of the Roman Catholic Church, the British Broadcasting Corporation reports.

What are the allegations?

Mr Martinelli is accused of sexually assaulting a boy at the Pius X Seminary in the Vatican, which houses altar boys who serve Mass in St Peter’s Basilica.

He attended the seminary himself and later became a priest, and prosecutors claim Mr Radice did not block his ordination despite knowing about the allegations.

On Wednesday, during an eight-minute hearing in a small courtroom, the charges against both men were read aloud.

Mr Martinelli was accused of forcing a boy, who cannot be named for legal reasons, to undergo “carnal acts” over a period of several years. The abuse is alleged to have started when the child was 13-years-old.

Mr Radice, meanwhile, was accused of covering up the alleged assault and trying to divert official investigations.

Neither man spoke during the hearing and the trial has been adjourned for two weeks.

A shaken Catholic Church

The seminary, which is just metres away from where Pope Francis lives, trains altar boys for papal masses.

The allegations of sexual assault were reportedly known about since 2012, but were only uncovered by journalists who spoke to the alleged victim’s roommate in 2017.

Allegations of endemic abuse dating back decades have shaken the Catholic Church to its core. Pope Francis has made moves to tackle it, but he is seen by his critics as being too slow to recognise the scale.

So as allegations continue to emerge, it is clear just what a mountain of potential cases the Church still faces.

– BBC

 

 

Man, 40, arrested for sodomising 10-year-old boy in Lagos

       

POLICE in Ejigbo, Lagos, have arrested a 40-year-old-man, Itah Ogah, for sodomising a 10-year-old boy and tearing his anus.

Ogah allegedly carried out the dastardly act after luring the minor to a brothel, at Powerline Street, Ejigbo, Lagos.

It was gathered that the minor, who had been referred to Mirabel Centre for urgent attention, sustained tears in his anus as Ogah forcefully penetrated him.

Sources in the area who confirmed the incident said Ogah had lured the minor into taking some alcoholic drink before he forcefully penetrated him.

He was also reported to have allegedly told people he met at the brothel that the minor was his son.

“It is high time the police beamed their searchlight on this area. This area is now a rapists’ den. Recently, a girl was raped to death. Now, it is another man that raped a boy and tore his anus. I believe the police that arrested him will make sure he pays for this,” Akeem, a resident, told The Point.

“The boy’s noise attracted people to the brothel where they caught him in the act. The boy’s mother immediately reported the matter to the police who came to arrest the man. I also learnt that the boy could not walk again. He was carried to the police station with blood in his trouser,” he added.

Another resident who refused to identify himself, said, “The house was not a hotel, but a depot of hoodlums in the area where they perform various atrocities. Ogah lured the boy there and raped him through the anus. He and his colleagues are terrors in this area, especially at night.

“When he was caught in the act, he was threatening those people until the police came for him. The Police should not spare him and his partners in crime.”

A police source, who is not authorised to speak on the matter, confirmed Ogah’s arrest.

“He will be interrogated further on the matter and transferred to SCIID, Panti, before he goes to Court. We are ready to flush them out of this area. No mercy for them,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, could not be reached as of the time of filing this report.

 

 

Intels sacks 600 workers, Labour threatens showdown

 

THE Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria has given the management of Intels a seven-day ultimatum to withdraw the sack letters the company issued to 600 workers or face total shut down of its operations, nationwide.

The MWUN, which said the company also recently declared 30 workers redundant in Onne Port, noted that those affected in the latest exercise included workers in the Rivers and Warri operational areas of the company.

Secretary General, MWUN, Felix Akingboye, in a letter addressed to the Managing Director, Intels Services, described the decision to sack the workers as unlawful and unacceptable.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar is said to be a part owner of Intels.

Akingboye said, “Over the years, the welfare benefits of your employees (Intels Nigeria Limited) and that of your subsidiary Company, AMS, has always been the product of joint negotiation between your management and the union. In other words, the employees of the principal (Intels Nigeria Ltd) and its subsidiary AMS enjoy the same welfare benefits.

“Recently, your management declared about 30 of its employees redundant and the union was duly consulted, and a joint communiqué between management and the union was issued after due negotiation.

“Regrettably, however, we are informed that your management has terminated its contract with AMS which has led to over 600 workers (who are our members) being declared redundant without due recourse to the union for the negotiation of their terminal benefits.

“Letters of termination/redundancy, we are informed, had already been served on the workers. This unfair labour practice is not acceptable to us.”

The Labour leader added, “I have been directed to issue your management with a seven day notice effective from the date of this ultimatum, within which to withdraw all the letters of termination/redundancy served on the workers and recall them to duty, otherwise, we shall be compelled to withdraw our services from your terminal at the expiration of the notice.

“We demand that status quo ante should remain pending when a management/union meeting is convened to negotiate their exit and payment of terminal benefits.”

 

 

#EndSARS: Two feared killed, many injured as SUV runs into protesters in Lagos

 

TWO persons were reportedly killed and many others injured, on Wednesday, when a Sports Utility Vehicle ran into #EndSARS protesters at the Alagbado area of Lagos State.

While some eyewitnesses said the SUV deliberately ran into the peaceful protesters, others said it was an accident.

Those who were injured in the accident have been taken to the hospital, The Point learnt.

Angry protesters were said to have attacked the unidentified owner of the SUV and a tricycle that was also involved in the accident.

The #EndSARS protests have continued despite the Federal Government’s disbandment of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad and the approval of the five-point demand of the protesters. 

The protesters are demanding the scrapping of the newly created Special Weapons and Tactics unit, saying that the Inspector-General of Police, Mohammed Adamu, had only changed the name, “SARS”.

Protests went on in major areas of Lagos, including Alausa, Iyana Ipaja, Oworonshoki, Amuwo Odofin, Ojodu-Berger, despite the heavy rain.

Protesters also blocked the Lekki Tollgate, forcing road users to take alternative routes.

 

 

N10bn libel suit: Ortom, Oshiomhole ready for out-of-court settlement

 

GOVERNOR Samuel Ortom of Benue State has indicated that he is willing to forgive the former National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Adams Oshiomhole as regards a N10billion libel suit he instituted against him.

He said this on Wednesday in view of the submission at the commencement of the hearing that Oshiomhole’s counsel indicated that they were considering retracting the offensive publication that warranted the legal action.

Ortom had dragged the former Edo State Governor to court after he accused him (Ortom) during an APC press conference, held on July 27, 2018, of having a hand in the death of two Catholic priests and other parishioners at Mbalom Community, Gwer East Local Government Area of Benue State, owing to a claim that one of the priests had preached a very critical sermon against Governor Ortom.

“If he comes back now to tender an apology to me and also go back to the same news medium that he used to scandalise and vilify me to have the apology published and also meet the condition set by my lawyers, I will certainly forgive him,” he said.

Counsel to the Governor, Samuel Irabor, had, on Tuesday, told the Makurdi High Court, presided over by Justice Augustine Ityonyiman that in view of the fact that Oshiomhole’s lawyer had informed him about plans to retract the offensive publication, they would “apply for another date to take a look at the terms of the settlement canvassed by the defendants.”

Confirming this, Titus Akuhwa, holding brief for Oshiomhole’s lead counsel, Festus Jumbo, said, “That is the true position of the matter. We have met and we are drawing out the terms of the settlement.”

Justice Ityonyiman, therefore, adjourned the case to October 29, 2020, for a report on the out-of-court settlement.

Responding, Ortom said, “I am a Christian and the Bible says forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. So, if your brother offends you and comes back to apologise, you will forgive him. Moreover, the conditions are there, and I know that I was innocent even when he made all those allegations…

“I know I also offend others, and I keep saying that they should forgive me. That is life, for us to live together we must learn to forgive one another and move on.

“The problems of this country today are beyond those trivial things. We have major security, social, political and economic problems all over the place. So we must come together. These issues are beyond political party differences.

“The situation requires every one of us to reason together on how we can survive as a country. Even if we are not concerned about this country, we should be concerned about our children. We should be concerned with how we can make this country better than where it is today.”

 

 

CBN to sanction Shipping Companies over violation of export guidelines

 

THE Central Bank of Nigeria has threatened to sanction shipping companies that violate the Federal Government’s directive on exports procedures.

It said that any shipping company that disobeyed the directive of the Federal Government that all export goods leaving the country should carry the Nigerian Export Proceeds numbers would be penalised.

The CBN Governor, Godwin Emefiele, said these during a meeting with shipping companies.

He said, “We are going to set up an auto system, where if someone wants to send cargo, copies of the NXP form will be sent directly to you. So that if you don’t have it online on your system that the NXP has been registered, you turn back that cargo.

“You cannot accept any number and use it as a basis for shipping. We are not going to allow that. That is not acceptable. If you don’t see NXP Forms, that cargo should be turned back.”

Also speaking on the issue, the Executive Secretary/Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, Hassan Bello, said that the Council, in partnership with the apex bank, had carried out three sensitisation meetings in Lagos and Port Harcourt to educate shipping companies and exporters on the need to implement the directive on the NXP.

He added that the NSC would work with other agencies of government to ensure full compliance, so that export without the NXP is discontinued.

The Managing Director, MSC Nigeria Limited, Andrew Lynch, noted that his company received NXP forms on all major agro commodities like cashew, cocoa and sesame, but not for commodities like charcoal and timber.

According to him, the company discovered that these items do not have NXP forms after they have already arrived at the port.

He argued that as soon as a cargo arrived the port and had been cleared by the Nigeria Customs Services, there would be pressure, due to space constraints at the port, to ship immediately.

He added that one of their challenges also was their inability to verify the authenticity of an NXP form.

 

 

#EndSARS: Counter-protests begin in support of Buhari, IGP

 

… Actions of #EndSARS protesters uncalled for, says group

A group under the auspices of the Coalition of Civil Society Organisations has condemned the continuation of the #EndSARS protests across Nigeria, saying the actions of the protesters are totally uncalled for and unacceptable.

The group applauded President Muhammadu Buhari and the Inspector General of Police, Mohammed Adamu, for disbanding the Special Anti-Robbery Squad on popular demand.

Members of the group held a rally in support of the IGP and security agencies at the Unity Fountain, Abuja on Wednesday.

Chief Convener of the Coalition, Comrade Olayemi Success, said, “Today, we the leaders of different Civil Society Organisations are gathered here from far and near with some of our members from every nook and cranny of Nigeria in solidarity with our security agencies, especially the Nigeria Police Force. We are all aware of pockets of protests, demanding for the scrapping of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad.

“The Inspector General of Police in display of his 21st Century Police officer’s compliance, highest level of professionalism and best regards for Democracy, yielded to the call and disbanded the SARS.

“Surprisingly, the protesters still continued with their trade of protest. In view of the above, this solidarity march is very important to boost the morale of the police men and women. It is for them to know that well-meaning Nigerians appreciate their sacrifices in securing Nigeria.

“We are convinced that Police is our friend and everyone that sees police as enemies are suspects.

“Let us use this opportunity to commend the world best Inspector General of Police for creating the Special Weapons and Tactics Team, which we believe will discharge all the responsibilities of the disbanded SARS more professionally and effectively.

“Also, it is very important to call on the National Assembly to approve more funding for the Nigeria Police force for adequate security.”

 

 

34-year-old Nigerian, Austin Chenge, joins Michigan governorship race

 

A 34-year-old native of Benue State in Nigeria, Austin Chenge, has joined the race for the Michigan State governorship seat in the United States.

Chenge is expected to contest for the ticket of the Republican Party with US Representative, Lamar Smith, to be the Party’s candidate in the election scheduled to hold in 2022.

Head, Media and Public Relations, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Abdul-Rahman Balogun, who disclosed this in a statement, said Chenge was popular locally for designing the popular tricycle, called Wazobia tricycle, in 2016.

The tricycle, according to him, was designed to improve the lives of peasant farmers all over Africa.

The statement said, “Chenge is a Law graduate from the University of Birmingham, England. Since the year 2018, he has been serving with the US military as a specialist. He is decorated with the Achievement Medal as a Distinguished Honour Graduate with a Culmulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 99.8% and for exceptional performance while on active duty.

“Austin has always stunned critics by achieving what others consider impossible. A graduate of the School of Law at the University of Birmingham England, Austin raised over $200,000 in funding for his first startup, Holla@Me/Holla.com (now sold) in England and soon expanded to San Jose in California.

“He created Waving in a social networking environment in 2011, a concept later seen on Facebook’ Wave. In 2016, his tricycle design (termed Wazobia tricycle) aimed at improving the lives of peasant farmers, made history in the West African nation of Nigeria as the first designed, engineered and manufactured by a person of Nigerian descent.

“Since 2018, he has served as a Specialist in the US Army, where he has been decorated with an Army Achievement Medal as Distinguished Honor Graduate with a CGPA of 99.8% and for exceptional performance while on Active duty.

“As of March, 2020, Austin became the first Republican Candidate for Governor of Michigan, for the 2022 election.”

 

 

We admitted 7,968, out of over 21,000 applicants – LASU VC

 

THE Vice-Chancellor, Lagos State University, Prof. Olanrewaju Fagbohun, has disclosed that, out of over 21,000 applicants who sought admission into the university during the last exercise, the institution could only admit 7,968.

He stated this on Wednesday during the 2020/2021 matriculation ceremony of the institution.

He said the matriculating students should consider themselves lucky to be in the university, noting specifically that, during the 2020 admission screening, the university recorded 21,626 applications but was able to admit only 7,968.

The VC, however, told them to adhere to the rules and regulations of the institution, saying, “it is one thing to be in the institution, it is another thing to earn their stay on campus.”

“Matriculating under any circumstances is great achievement, so many overcame a lot to be here, navigated challenging classes and challenges outside the classroom,” he noted.

Fagbohun added that in the last four years and 10 months, the university had undergone metamorphic changes that had guaranteed conducive learning, preparedness to take on global challenges and a stable academic calendar.

“Therefore, what is primarily required of you during your stay on campus is good morals and academic excellence,” he noted.

“Times Higher Education ranked LASU as the second best tertiary institution in Nigeria and globally within the global 501-601 bracket, so the onus is on you to raise the bar of achievements,” he stated.

Also speaking at the ceremony, the Dean, Students’ Affairs, Dr. Tajudeen Olumoko, congratulated the newly admitted students, saying that the university had sustained its age-long objective of making quality and liberal education accessible to all, regardless of social or economic class.

He said the main objective of the exercise was to acquaint the students with the fundamental principles, norms and culture of the institution.

He said, “As newly admitted students, you are expected to abide by all rules and regulations of this institution and participate in all activities of the university. You must be fully committed to your studies and justify your selection out of the thousands who wanted to come and study in this noble institution but never got a chance.

“At LASU, we have zero tolerance for any form of misconduct and we do not hesitate to sanction any students who gets involved in any vice.”