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Amaechi A Golden Fish, An Asset To My Administration – Buhari

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As former Rivers State Governor and Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, celebrates his 60th birthday, former President Muhammadu Buhari has paid glowing tribute to his contributions to Nigeria’s infrastructure development.

In a statement issued on Wednesday through his former spokesperson, Garba Shehu, Buhari referred to Amaechi as a “golden fish” and an indispensable part of his administration, especially for his role in revitalising Nigeria’s moribund railway sector.

Buhari emphasized that Amaechi played a key role in the revival and modernisation of Nigeria’s rail system, breathing new life into projects that had long been abandoned.

“Amaechi shared with me the aspiration of strengthening infrastructure, bridging the nation’s long-delayed gaps through the railway, a vital component, leading to its revival from a comatose state, completion of abandoned projects, turning them into major transit hubs, and initiating major ones across the country, some of which were driven to completion before he left office,” Buhari said.

He highlighted how the rail system, which had been dormant for decades, began to function again under Amaechi’s watch, becoming an essential part of the country’s transport network.

“Under him, the nation witnessed a new era of railway infrastructure. I wish him and his family many happy years ahead.”

According to Buhari, Amaechi’s efforts not only brought long-neglected projects to life but also improved rail connectivity and services for both passengers and cargo across Nigeria.

“The railway network, which used to be the heartbeat of many towns and cities but was killed and buried for decades, began a new chapter under Amaechi’s leadership,” he said.

Buhari added that the sector experienced growth in capacity, enhanced safety measures, and the introduction of modern rolling stock and new services, enabling millions of Nigerians to benefit from improved transportation.

Rotimi Amaechi served as Nigeria’s Minister of Transportation from 2015 to 2023.

Prior to that, he was the Governor of Rivers State from 2007 to 2015 and earlier, the Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly from 1999 to 2007.

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Onitsha: NAFDAC Reopens Ogbu-ogu Market After Months Of Closure

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Normalcy has returned to the Ogbu-ogu Drug Market, popularly known as the Bridge Head Drug Market in Onitsha, following its reopening by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), months after its closure.

During an inspection visit to the market, Anambra State’s Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor, confirmed that the facility has resumed operations.

He was joined by the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike, as they toured the market to monitor compliance with NAFDAC’s conditions for reopening.

Dr. Mefor expressed satisfaction with the progress made, stating: “95 percent of the shops in the market have reopened for business, while the remaining 5 percent remain under lock due to the owner’s failure to present themselves for screening or meet NAFDAC’s directives.”

Addressing traders at the market, Dr. Obidike reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the wellbeing of those in the pharmaceutical trade.

“The ongoing construction of the new drug market in Oba, with full facilities for proper drug storage will be completed as scheduled,” he assured.

Echoing the update, Pharm. Omoyeni Babatunji, Deputy Director of Investigation and Enforcement for the South-South and South-East regions of NAFDAC, confirmed the current status of shop reopenings.

“95 percent of shops in the market have reopened, while the remaining 5 percent remain closed,” he stated.

Meanwhile, the Chairman of the Onitsha Drug Market, Mr. Chukwuleta Ndubisi, expressed deep appreciation to the Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo.

“It was the Governor’s appeal that led the agency to shorten the duration of the market closure,” he noted.

He went on to say, “We thank Governor Chukwuma Soludo for his fatherly support throughout the process and pray for God’s abundant reward on him.”

With most traders now back in business, the atmosphere at the Ogbu-ogu Market reflects cautious optimism as regulatory compliance continues to be monitored by both state and federal authorities.

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Anyone Who Illegally Resells Land Will Face A 21-Year Jail Term, Says Ondo Governor

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Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has declared tough new penalties for land-related offenses, introducing jail terms of up to 21 years for illegal resale of land and 10 years for forceful acquisition or encroachment.

This announcement came on Wednesday during the inauguration of the State Task Force on Property Protection and Anti-Land Grabbing in Akure.

The governor made it clear that his administration is taking a firm stance against land grabbing and related criminal activities.

“Land is more than just property. It is our heritage, a birthright, and the foundation of community identity.”

“We will not stand by and allow criminal elements to rob our people of what rightfully belongs to them,” he said.

Governor Aiyedatiwa raised alarm over the growing incidence of violent disputes, illegal land sales, and the imposition of unauthorized charges by those exploiting the traditional “Omo-Onile” system.

He said these issues have disrupted peace and caused displacement across both urban and rural areas.

The new law, passed by the Ondo State House of Assembly, outlines severe consequences: 10 years’ imprisonment for land grabbing and forceful entry, 5 years in prison or a ₦5 million fine for unlawful occupation, 7 years for violating real estate transaction laws, 21 years for reselling land without proper revocation, and 2 years for collecting illegal levies.

Governor Aiyedatiwa applauded the legislative efforts that brought the law into effect.

“I commend the House of Assembly for its proactive legislative action,” he said, describing the new law as “timely and visionary.”

He also praised the Attorney-General and the Ministry of Justice for crafting a legal framework that enables the government to aggressively combat land-related offenses.

The governor urged the newly formed Task Force to enforce the law impartially.

“Work closely with relevant ministries, community leaders, and stakeholders to ensure proper implementation,” he charged the task force.

Reaffirming his administration’s dedication to the security of lives and property, Aiyedatiwa stressed that the protection of land rights is key to peace and sustainable development.

The Task Force includes notable officials: Dr. Kayode Ajulo (Attorney General/Commissioner for Justice), Engr. Olawoye Ayorinde Abiola (Special Adviser on Infrastructure, Lands and Housing), CP Wilfred Afolabi (Commissioner of Police, Ondo State), Chief Adetunji Adeleye (Commander, Amotekun Corps), and Surv. Idowu Owolabi (Ondo State Surveyor-General), among others from ministries, local governments, and civil society.

During his welcome speech, Attorney General Dr. Ajulo recalled the passage of the law on December 30, 2024, highlighting it as a critical step toward restoring order in land administration.

“Most communal clashes in the State have their roots in unresolved land ownership issues.” he emphasized.

Also speaking at the event, Hon. MoyinOlorun Ogunwumiju, who sponsored the bill and represents Ondo West Constituency I, thanked the governor for his strong backing.

“Even before the bill was passed, the Governor had demonstrated strong commitment by issuing an Executive Order against land grabbing,” he noted.

Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Lands and Housing, Edward Ogumola, echoed these sentiments, calling the Task Force’s establishment a “major milestone” in the battle against illegal land activities.

“Land grabbing has long been one of the biggest challenges facing the ministry,” he said, adding that the initiative will significantly ease their operations.

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WABMA Trains Journalists On Ethical Reporting Of SGBV

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The West African Broadcast and Media Academy (WABMA), a non-governmental organization, has conducted a training session for journalists on global best practices in reporting Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) cases.

The training, held in Enugu on Thursday, was part of WABMA’s broader efforts to strengthen ethical journalism and promote social justice through responsible media.

Speaking at the event, Mrs. Chidiebere Njoku, Chief Operations Head of WABMA in Enugu State, emphasized the organization’s commitment to media as a powerful tool for societal transformation.

“WABMA Media Development Foundation is a non-profit development and impact-driven arm of the WABMA based in Nigeria, with campuses in Enugu, Abuja, and Lagos,” she said.

Njoku explained that the foundation operates at the intersection of media, development, and democracy.

“It focuses on building the capacity of journalists, content creators, and civic actors to drive inclusive narratives, hold power holders to account, and amplify voices from underrepresented communities,” she added.

She noted that WABMA’s core areas of interest include ethical and development journalism, SGBV prevention and media advocacy, gender-responsive reporting, as well as election coverage, civic engagement, climate and public health communication, media literacy, and youth empowerment.

As part of its strategy, Njoku said the foundation is also working with cultural and religious leaders across Southern Nigeria to shift community attitudes on SGBV.

“By this, we engage religious and cultural leaders across Southern Nigeria to champion SGBV prevention, influence community norms, and enhance visibility through media training and storytelling,” she explained.

She further highlighted WABMA’s long-term vision: “To be the leading catalyst for transformative media excellence and social impact in West Africa.”

“The aim is to build the capacity of media institutions and practitioners for a free, independent, diverse, and development-oriented media that strengthens democratic values and empowers communities,” Njoku said.

One of the resource persons at the training, Dr. Ambrose Igboke, a Regional Communications Consultant, addressed the issue of societal stereotypes fueling SGBV.

“Narratives about SGBV are stereotypes which are rooted in the religion and traditions of the people,” he said.

Igboke pointed out that gender imbalance persists across many developing countries, including Nigeria.

“It has continued to bring discrimination in the society,” he stated.

He called for an end to such stereotypes, stressing that “people should be able to bring out their best in opportunities or positions they find themselves without thinking of what people would say against them.”

Also speaking at the event, Mrs. Ngozi Ebo, Executive Director of the Global Initiative for Development, Care of Women and Youths, advised journalists to protect the identity of survivors when reporting SGBV cases.

“Journalists should avoid blames, when interviewing survivors, as they may not like to speak up until they ensure that they will be protected,” she cautioned.

Some of the journalists who participated in the workshop expressed satisfaction with the training, pledging to improve their approach to reporting on SGBV issues moving forward.

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Two-Year Anniversary: Under Your Watch, Enugu Has Begun A New Chapter – Nkanu West Council Boss Hails Gov. Mbah

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As Governor Peter Mbah marks two years in office, the Executive Chairman of Nkanu West Local Government Area, Hon. John Ogbodo, has lauded the governor’s leadership, describing it as a “turning point” for Enugu State in the committee of states across the nation.

Speaking at Okpara Square during a ceremony to commemorate the administration’s second anniversary, Hon. Ogbodo praised the Mbah-led government for its vision, reforms, and tangible developmental strides that have repositioned Enugu as a rising model of modern governance.

“Under your watch, Enugu has begun a new chapter in the committee of states. The transformation we are witnessing across key sectors like infrastructure, education, healthcare, and digital innovation speaks volumes,” the council boss said.

According to him, the governor’s unwavering commitment to turning the state into a productive and investment-friendly environment has begun to yield visible results.

He cited the ongoing road rehabilitation projects, increased budgetary support for education, and investment in digital governance as critical steps that have restored public confidence and attracted private sector interest.

Chief Ogbodo further noted that the people of Nkanu West and indeed Enugu State have every reason to celebrate, as the governor’s policies are impacting lives at the grassroots level.

“The promise of a new Enugu is no longer a dream, it is becoming a reality, and we in Nkanu West are proud to be part of this progress,” he added.

The council chairman called on residents to continue supporting the Mbah administration, stressing that sustained collaboration between the government and the people will accelerate development and ensure a lasting legacy of good governance.

DAILY GAZETTE recall that Governor Mbah assumed office on May 29, 2023, on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), with a promise to transform Enugu into a digitally driven, economically vibrant, and inclusive state.

Two years into his tenure, many stakeholders say the state is beginning to reflect that vision.

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Akpabio Appoints Bayelsa Senator As Chairman Of South-South Development Commission

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President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has appointed Senator Benson Konbowei, who represents Bayelsa Central Senatorial District, as Chairman of the Standing Committee on the South-South Development Commission.

The announcement was made during the Senate plenary session held on Wednesday.

Senator Konbowei, a former Secretary to the Bayelsa State Government, was elected to the Senate in 2023 under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party.

His political journey began as a councillor in 1992, and over the years, he has served as Chairman of Southern Ijaw Local Government Council and a three-term member of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, where he also served as Speaker.

The newly constituted 12-member committee includes Senators Asuquo Ekpeyong as Vice Chairman, along with members Onowakpo Thomas Joel, Benson Friday Agadaga, Neda Bernards Imasuen, Allwell Heacho Onyesoh, Samson Ekong, Samaila Dahuwa Kaila, Mustapha Musa, Patrick Ndubueze, Idiat Oluranti Adebule, and Mustapha Saliu.

In a related development, Senate President Akpabio also carried out a minor reshuffle in the leadership of Senate committees. Sl

Senator Fadeyi Olubiyi was named Chairman of the Senate Committee on Environment, while Senator Sadiq Sulieman was appointed Chairman of the Committee on Rules and Business.

These appointments are part of the Senate’s ongoing efforts to strengthen oversight and drive developmental initiatives across various regions and sectors of the country.

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May 30: Anambra Police Vow To Quell Threats Ahead Of Biafra Day Celebration

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Police authorities in Anambra State have pledged to counter any potential threats from separatist groups planning to mark Biafra Day on May 30, 2025, assuring residents of heightened security across the state.

Some schools in the state have already declared Friday a lecture-free day in response to security concerns tied to the activities of pro-Biafra agitators.

In anticipation of the day, the state police command announced a strategic deployment of personnel to key areas, especially major junctions, to prevent any breakdown of law and order.

In a statement released by the command’s spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, he confirmed that officers are fully mobilized and highly motivated to respond to any incidents.

He revealed that a closed-door meeting involving the Anambra Security Service Commanders had taken place ahead of the planned “illegal” Biafra Day activities by what he described as “some criminal elements.”

According to Ikenga, “Police-led Joint Security Force comprising the Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), other Security agencies as well as the Army and Navy complimenting the security deployment, have intensified patrols and taken over the strategic junctions in Awka, Onitsha, Nnewi, Ihiala, Oraifite and many other parts of the State.”

He emphasized that the coordinated presence of multiple agencies was a deliberate show of strength meant to deter troublemakers and reassure residents.

“This demonstrates the commitment of the security agencies to maintaining security and order as their heightened presence aims to deter criminal activities, reassure the public, and provide a safe environment for citizens and visitors alike,” he said.

Ikenga noted that the synergy among the various security arms had boosted morale and reinforced their determination to maintain peace.

“This collective effort has further strengthened the resolve of the security agencies to tackle threats to peace and security in the State, fostering a safer environment through Community-Police collaboration,” he added.

He also quoted the Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, as acknowledging the role of community support in bolstering security operations.

“CP Ikioye Orutugu fwc MNIPS PhD has noted the increased motivation of the Police and Other Security Agencies stemming from the cooperation and support received from Ndi Anambra in joining voices to condemn any act that threatens our National peace.”

To further engage the public, Ikenga disclosed that contact numbers for divisional police heads across the state have been shared, encouraging citizens to report any suspicious activity or breach of peace in their communities.

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Reps Summon WAEC Over Midnight Exam Sessions, Irregularities

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Dailygazettenig
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The House of Representatives has issued a 24-hour ultimatum to the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) to appear before it and explain mounting concerns surrounding the ongoing Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE).

The directive was announced on Thursday by the Chairman of the House Committee on Basic Education and Examination Bodies, Oboku Oforji, following WAEC’s failure to attend a scheduled investigative session with the committee.

“We invited WAEC to explain the problems being reported, including students writing exams as late as midnight in some centres,” Oforji said, expressing dismay over the examination body’s absence.

“Their absence today is unacceptable.”

The committee’s concerns were triggered by reports from across Nigeria indicating widespread irregularities during the examinations, including instances of candidates writing in near-total darkness and extremely late hours.

WAEC had earlier informed the committee that its officials could not attend the meeting because they were preoccupied with ongoing exam activities.

But Oforji rejected the explanation, insisting their presence was crucial.

“But that is exactly why they need to appear. These irregularities are happening under their watch, and the public deserves answers,” he added.

The lawmaker emphasized that the committee’s aim was not to vilify WAEC but to understand the root causes of the chaos and prevent future occurrences.

“This level of confusion during national exams is unheard of. WAEC has conducted exams for years, but we’ve never seen this kind of disorganisation,” Oforji stated.

He further warned that failure to comply with the summons by Friday, May 30, 2025, would prompt the House to invoke its constitutional powers to compel WAEC’s appearance.

“If WAEC fails to appear by Friday, the House will be forced to use its constitutional powers to compel them,” Oforji cautioned.

He reaffirmed the House’s commitment to student welfare and educational standards.

“The goal is to protect students and ensure such challenges do not happen again.”

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Ritual Killing: Fleeing Enugu Native Doctor Arrested Along Badagry-Seme Border By Immigration

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Dailygazettenig
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A man identified as Obi Levi Obieze, also known by the aliases Levi Obu Onyeka, “Ezeani,” and “E-Dey-Play-E-Dey-Show,” has been captured by operatives of the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) while allegedly attempting to escape the country.

The suspect, a well-known native doctor from Umuojor village in the Isiagu community of Enugu State, was wanted in connection with kidnapping and ritual murder cases.

Obieze was arrested at the Gbaji checkpoint along the Badagry-Seme border route in Lagos while trying to flee Nigeria on a motorcycle.

The Nigeria Police Force had earlier declared him wanted following investigations into the abduction of a 13-year-old girl, who was reportedly kidnapped while walking with her father to their farm.

She was later rescued by police operatives from a shrine allegedly linked to Obieze.

Confirming the arrest, the Public Relations Officer of the Nigerian Immigration Service, ACI AS Akinlabi, said in a statement on Thursday that Obieze’s identity was verified through an enrollment slip from the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) found on him.

“He is currently in custody and his identity has been confirmed through a National Identity Management Commission enrollment slip found in his possession. During the initial questioning, he admitted to the alleged crimes,” Akinlabi said.

The immigration spokesperson also noted that the suspect is being held in coordination with the Nigeria Police Force, who will take over the investigation.

“The Nigeria Immigration Service is collaborating with the Nigeria Police Force for the suspect’s handover and further investigation while reaffirming its commitment to border security,” he added.

In a related development, the Enugu State Police Command earlier apprehended three individuals; Uche Kingsley Agumba (33), Ilo Nweze Onyedikachi (36), and Ejike Odinwankpa (38)—in connection with the same kidnapping incident.

Authorities also discovered two decomposing corpses buried in a sealed pit on Obieze’s property, further linking him to the alleged ritual killings.

Police had described Obieze as a known traditionalist in his community and urged the public to assist with information regarding his whereabouts, until his eventual capture.

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Edo Gov’ship: Appeal Court Dismisses PDP’s Petition For Lacking In Merit, Affirms Okpebholo’s Victory

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The Court of Appeal sitting in Abuja has officially upheld the election of Monday Okpebholo, the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, as the duly elected Governor of Edo State.

This ruling reaffirms the outcome of the gubernatorial poll conducted on September 21, 2024.

A panel comprising three justices unanimously rejected the appeal filed by Asue Ighodalo, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, along with his party.

In its judgment delivered on Thursday, the court described the appeal as lacking merit.

According to the appellate court, “the appellants failed to show that the election tribunal erred in its decision,” thereby leading to the dismissal of the appeal.

The ruling upholds the earlier verdict given by the election tribunal on April 2, which had also validated Okpebholo’s election.

The appellate court emphasized that there was no substantial reason to overturn the tribunal’s judgment.

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