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Redeemers Varsity Reacts After JAMB Suspended It From Law Admission

Redeemers University, located in Ede, Osun State, has provided clarification on the suspension of its law programme for the 2025/2026 academic session by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB).

The university explained that the suspension stemmed from the Council for Legal Education’s (CLE) decision to penalize the institution for initiating the law programme in 2017 without the CLE’s approval, despite having received approval from the National Universities Commission (NUC).

In a statement released by Adetunji Adeleye, the Deputy Director of Corporate Affairs at Redeemer’s University, the institution emphasized that it currently holds full accreditation from both the NUC and the CLE to offer an undergraduate law programme.

The university assured that the one-year suspension would not affect students currently enrolled in the law faculty.

The university also stated that it would comply with the CLE’s penalty by refraining from offering admissions to the law programme for the 2025/2026 academic session.

Prospective law students were encouraged to apply for other available programmes at the university, all of which are fully accredited.

On Thursday, JAMB announced the suspension of law admissions for eight universities, following CLE’s suspension of their law programmes.

The universities affected include Redeemer’s University, Kwara State University, Bingham University, Western Delta University, Taraba State University, Arthur Jarvis University, Alex Ekwueme Federal University, and the Nigerian Police Academy.

Dr. Fabian Benjamin, JAMB’s Public Communications Advisor, explained that the suspension resulted from violations of regulatory procedures concerning law programmes.

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Dangote Refinery Reduces Petrol Price To N890 Per Litre

Dangote Petroleum Refinery has announced a price reduction for Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, lowering the cost from N950 to N890 per litre.

The new price takes effect from Saturday, February 1, 2025, according to a statement issued by the refinery’s spokesperson, Anthony Chiejina, on Saturday.

Chiejina described the price adjustment as a strategic response to shifts in the global energy market, particularly the recent decline in international crude oil prices.

“This revision aligns with our commitment to transparency and fairness. It reflects ongoing fluctuations in global crude oil markets, just as our January 19 price adjustment responded to rising crude costs at the time,” he stated.

Dangote Refinery expressed confidence that the N60 reduction will help lower the cost of petrol nationwide, easing the financial burden on Nigerians.

The company also anticipates that the price cut will reduce transportation costs, drive down the prices of goods and services, and positively impact the economy.

The refinery urged oil marketers to cooperate in ensuring that the benefits of the price reduction reach consumers.

“This initiative is in line with the economic recovery plan of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who is committed to achieving self-sufficiency in refined petroleum products and positioning Nigeria as a leading exporter,” Chiejina added.

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Police Begin Crackdown On Third-Party Insurance Defaulters, Warn Motorists

The Kogi State Police Command has commenced the enforcement of the mandatory Third-Party Insurance Policy for all vehicles, in line with the directive of the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun.

Commissioner of Police, Miller Dantawaye, ordered strict compliance with the directive across the state, warning motorists to ensure their vehicles are properly insured to avoid penalties.

In a statement issued in Lokoja by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Williams Ovye-Aya, the commissioner emphasized that full compliance was expected from all vehicle owners in Kogi.

The enforcement, which began on Saturday, February 1, 2025, aims to improve road safety and ensure motorists adhere to insurance regulations.

“These regulations are in place to protect both drivers and other road users,” Dantawaye stated.

He urged residents to cooperate with officers conducting enforcement operations to prevent unnecessary inconveniences.

“Failure to comply with the directive will attract legal consequences,” he warned.

The commissioner advised all vehicle owners to obtain valid third-party insurance to avoid disruptions during enforcement.

He also directed Area Commanders, Tactical Commanders, and Divisional Police Officers to ensure full implementation of the policy while maintaining professionalism and adherence to standard procedures.

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FBI Agents Involved In Trump Investigations Face Dismissal

A sweeping shake-up is underway at the FBI, with agents involved in investigations that led to now-abandoned criminal charges against President Donald Trump facing termination, U.S. media reported Friday.

According to CNN, dozens of FBI agents, including those who investigated Trump supporters involved in the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot, are being reviewed for possible dismissal.

Some supervisors are also under scrutiny, raising concerns about a broad political purge within the nation’s top law enforcement agency.

The Washington Post, citing sources familiar with the plan, reported that officials are working to identify potentially hundreds of agents for termination.

Beyond the FBI, the Justice Department has also dismissed about 30 federal prosecutors who worked on Capitol riot cases and were still on probationary status.

On Monday, the department fired several officials who had been involved in prosecuting Trump, with an unnamed official stating that the acting attorney general no longer trusted them to “faithfully implement the president’s agenda.”

Meanwhile, NBC News reported that more than 20 FBI field office heads, including those in Miami and Washington, are among those facing dismissal.

At least six senior FBI leaders have been given an ultimatum to retire, resign, or be fired by Monday, CNN added.

However, acting FBI Director Brian Driscoll, a veteran agent appointed by Trump to oversee the bureau until a new director is confirmed, has refused to approve the widespread firings.

Senator Dick Durbin, the top Democrat on the Senate Judiciary Committee, condemned the dismissals as a “brazen assault on the rule of law.”

“The Trump administration’s purge of dozens of DOJ and FBI officials involved in investigating Donald Trump and the January 6 rioters is a major blow to the integrity and effectiveness of these institutions,” Durbin said.

The FBI Agents Association (FBIAA), which advocates for bureau employees, issued a statement warning that mass dismissals could significantly weaken national security.

“If reports of these terminations are true, they run fundamentally counter to the law enforcement objectives outlined by President Trump,” the group said.

“Firing potentially hundreds of agents would severely hamper the Bureau’s ability to counter national security and criminal threats.”

The restructuring at the FBI and DOJ follows the resignation of Special Counsel Jack Smith earlier this month.

Smith had led two federal cases against Trump, one involving efforts to overturn the 2020 election and another concerning classified documents but both were dropped after Trump won the November election.

In keeping with Justice Department policy, which bars prosecuting a sitting president, Smith formally dismissed all charges.

On his first day back in the White House last week, Trump pardoned more than 1,500 supporters convicted for storming the Capitol on January 6, 2021.

Following Trump’s reelection, FBI Director Christopher Wray resigned, and Trump has since nominated Kash Patel, a former advisor and staunch loyalist, to lead the bureau.

During his Senate confirmation hearing on Thursday, Patel was asked whether he was aware of plans to punish FBI agents who investigated Trump.

“I am not aware of that,” he responded, adding that “all FBI employees will be protected against political retribution.”

Despite these assurances, concerns persist over whether the mass dismissals mark a shift toward politicization of federal law enforcement.

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Speaker’s Impeachment Backfires As Tinubu Orders Lagos Lawmakers To Reinstate Obasa

President Bola Tinubu has directed members of the Lagos State House of Assembly to reinstate Mudashiru Obasa as Speaker, sources familiar with the situation told DAILY GAZETTE.

The directive comes three weeks after Obasa’s impeachment over allegations of corruption and abuse of office, which rocked the state’s political landscape.

According to sources, Tinubu expressed concerns that Obasa’s removal could have greater political consequences than any potential benefits from holding him accountable.

With 38 of the 40 lawmakers belonging to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Tinubu’s influence is expected to weigh heavily on the decision.

“The president has instructed us to start making arrangements for his return,” a senior Lagos politician disclosed.

“He insists that Obasa will only serve a short time before stepping down on his own terms.”

Another politician, speaking anonymously, added, “We have decided to reinstate him for a soft landing. The political fallout from prolonging this crisis could be severe.”

However, some lawmakers who supported Obasa’s removal remain apprehensive.

“Bringing him back is like reviving a snake after cutting off its head,” one legislator warned. “The consequences could be disastrous.”

To ensure full compliance, Tinubu has reportedly summoned key political figures to a meeting in Abuja on Monday.

Lawmakers who remain hesitant are expected to be persuaded to align with the president’s stance.

Obasa was impeached on January 13 after an investigative report exposed how he allegedly misappropriated billions in procurement allocations meant for vehicles and other expenses.

Following his removal, Lasbat Mojisola Meranda was elected as Speaker.

However, sources say she has struggled to assert authority over Obasa, despite having the backing of at least 32 lawmakers.

Adding to the tension, Obasa has refused to vacate the Speaker’s official residence in Ikeja G.R.A.

“He initially claimed he needed time to remove his personal belongings, but he has refused to leave,” a source revealed.

“Madam Speaker is too intimidated to challenge him.”

The extent of First Lady, Remi Tinubu’s involvement in the matter remains unclear.

However, her reported intervention in preventing the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) from arresting Obasa has raised further questions.

Tinubu’s push for Obasa’s return is expected to deepen internal divisions within Lagos’ political circles.

However, given the president’s strong grip on state politics, lawmakers may feel compelled to comply rather than risk political repercussions.

“Many lawmakers feel humiliated by this decision,” a source admitted. “But no one wants to challenge the president, who also leads the party.”

When contacted, a presidential spokesman said he was unaware of Tinubu’s directive.

Meanwhile, both Obasa and Meranda declined to comment.

Sources also confirmed that Obasa met with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu at the Government House in Marina on Saturday to finalize plans for his return.

An aide to the governor acknowledged the meeting but did not provide further details.

Obasa’s reinstatement could take effect as early as next week.

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Canada Hits Back At Trump’s Tariffs, Imposes 25% Duties On US Goods, Declares Readiness For Trade War

Canada has announced sweeping retaliatory tariffs on United States of America imports in response to President Donald Trump’s latest trade measures, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said on Saturday, warning Americans about the economic fallout of the escalating trade conflict.

Speaking at a press conference, Trudeau outlined Canada’s plan to impose 25% tariffs on a range of U.S. products, covering C$155 billion ($107 billion) worth of goods.

The first round, affecting C$30 billion in imports, will take effect on Tuesday, coinciding with the implementation of Trump’s tariffs.

The remaining C$125 billion will be subjected to levies within three weeks.

The move follows Trump’s decision to slap 25% tariffs on Canadian and Mexican imports, along with 10% tariffs on Chinese goods, fueling concerns of a global trade war.

Trump also announced a separate 10% tariff on all Canadian energy imports.

Among the U.S. products facing Canadian tariffs are beer, wine, bourbon, fruits, and fruit juices, including Florida’s orange juice.

Other affected goods include clothing, sports equipment, and household appliances.

Addressing Americans directly, Trudeau cautioned that Trump’s tariffs would have severe economic consequences, potentially jeopardizing jobs in the U.S. auto and manufacturing industries while driving up consumer costs.

“Tariffs against Canada will put American jobs at risk, potentially shutting down auto assembly plants and other manufacturing facilities,” Trudeau said.

“They will make groceries more expensive and raise prices at the gas pump.”

Canada is also weighing additional countermeasures, including restrictions on critical minerals and energy procurement, Trudeau added.

The U.S.-Canada trade relationship is one of the world’s largest, with their shared border facilitating over $2.5 billion in daily trade, particularly in energy and manufacturing.

In 2023, Canada exported nearly C$550 billion worth of goods and services to the U.S., accounting for over three-quarters of its total exports.

Energy made up 30% of this figure, while manufacturing contributed around 15%.

Trudeau’s announcement comes at a politically turbulent time, as he prepares to step down following a leadership crisis in the Liberal Party.

With low approval ratings and polls favoring the opposition Conservatives, Trudeau has already announced his resignation after nine years in office.

Appealing to shared history, Trudeau referenced past military alliances between the two nations, underscoring Canada’s longstanding commitment to the U.S.

“From the beaches of Normandy to the mountains of the Korean Peninsula, from the fields of Flanders to the streets of Kandahar, we have fought and died alongside you during your darkest hours,” he said.

“We’ve built the most successful economic, military, and security partnership the world has ever seen.”

Calling on Canadians to rally behind domestic industries, Trudeau urged consumers to support local businesses and tourism.

“We didn’t seek this confrontation, but we won’t back down,” he declared.

In a social media post, Trudeau reaffirmed Canada’s preparedness for the trade war.

“The United States has confirmed that it intends to impose 25% tariffs on most Canadian goods, with 10% tariffs on energy, starting February 4,” he wrote.

“I’ve met with Premiers and our Cabinet today, and I’ll be speaking with President Sheinbaum of Mexico shortly. We did not want this, but Canada is prepared. I’ll be addressing Canadians later this evening.”

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Why I Dumped PDP, Joined APC – Senator Ned Nwoko

Senator Ned Nwoko, representing Delta North in the National Assembly, has announced his resignation from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), citing internal conflicts and deepening divisions as primary reasons for his exit.

In a resignation letter dated January 30 and addressed to PDP leaders in Ward 8, Aniocha North Local Government Area of Delta State, Nwoko expressed disappointment over the state of affairs within the party.

“My decision to resign is first and foremost due to the deep divisions and factionalization within the party. This fragmentation has made it increasingly difficult to foster unity and advance the collective interests of our people,” he stated.

The senator also referenced a recent development that, according to him, highlighted the extent of discord within the party.

“Just this week, precisely on the 29th of January, the top party functionaries degenerated to the lowest levels by physically fighting each other, arising from the stated factions, which have become irreconcilable,” he revealed.

While acknowledging the role the PDP played in his emergence as a senator in the 2022/2023 elections, Nwoko expressed concerns that the party’s structure in Delta State had become an obstacle to delivering on his electoral promises.

“Regrettably, the current structure of the party in our state has not been conducive to realizing these promises. After careful consideration, I have come to the conclusion that stepping away from the party is necessary to fulfil my obligations to my people,” he explained.

Despite his decision, he assured both party members and his constituents of his continued commitment to service.

“While I bid farewell to my membership in the PDP, I assure all party members and my constituents of my unwavering dedication to statesmanship,” Nwoko affirmed.

As the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Reparations and Repatriations and Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Environment and Sports Development, he reiterated that his decision was driven by the need to prioritize the interests of his people.

“My decision is rooted in the best interest of those I serve, and I remain committed to the progress and prosperity of our state and nation,” he emphasized.

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Obasa Stands Impeached – Lagos Assembly

The Lagos State House of Assembly has reaffirmed the removal of Mudashiru Obasa as Speaker, insisting that the process was conducted in full compliance with constitutional provisions.

In a statement released on Thursday and signed by Hon. Ogundipe Stephen Olukayode, members of the Assembly maintained that Obasa’s removal followed due process and aligned with the legal framework guiding legislative proceedings in Nigeria.

Following their visit to the Lagos Command of the Department of State Services (DSS) in Shangisha, Olukayode emphasized that the decision adhered strictly to the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Powers and Privileges Act.

Citing Sections 92 and 96, which outline the procedure for electing and removing a Speaker, the lawmakers stressed that their actions were lawful.

“The Lagos State House of Assembly, as an independent arm of government, exercised its constitutional duty in the best interest of the people of Lagos,” the statement read.

“Any attempt to challenge this lawful action undermines the authority granted to us by the Nigerian Constitution.”

The legislators also commended the DSS for handling the situation with professionalism, noting that all detained lawmakers had since been released after a smooth and respectful engagement.

Reaffirming their commitment to legislative responsibilities, the Assembly called on all stakeholders including the executive and the public to respect the autonomy of the legislature and refrain from undue interference.

Obasa was removed from office on January 13, 2025, after 35 out of the 40 Assembly members voted in favor of his ouster, citing allegations of misconduct and financial mismanagement.

He was immediately replaced by his former deputy, Rt. Hon. Mojisola Lawal-Meranda.

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Chaos In Ghanaian Parliament Over Ministerial Vetting, Lawmakers Damage Property

Ghana’s parliamentary session on Thursday night descended into disorder as lawmakers clashed over the vetting process for new ministerial nominees.

The heated altercation saw members pushing and shoving each other, leading to the destruction of furniture, microphones, and other parliamentary property before police intervened.

The disagreement stemmed from allegations by the vetting committee that opposition MPs were deliberately prolonging the process for political reasons.

On Friday morning, the committee’s chairman expressed regret over the incident, calling it “totally unacceptable.”

The vetting exercise involved three lawmakers from the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC), who were nominated for ministerial positions following the party’s victory over the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the December elections.

However, tensions escalated when NDC members accused NPP parliamentary leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin of excessively scrutinizing nominees, particularly communications minister-designate Samuel Nartey George.

George’s questioning lasted over five hours, with some NDC MPs suspecting it was a form of political payback.

They argued that opposition members were seeking to pressure him into retracting past criticisms of former President Nana Akufo-Addo and his Vice-President Mahamadu Bawumia.

The standoff eventually led to a shouting match and physical altercations, disrupting parliamentary proceedings.

In response, Afenyo-Markin defended his party’s actions, stating that lawmakers have the right to rigorously examine all presidential nominees.

He also accused the NDC of attempting to manipulate the vetting process to their advantage.

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JAMB Announces New Date For Commencement Of 2025 UTME Registration

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has rescheduled the commencement of registration for the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) to Monday, February 3, 2025.

Initially slated to begin on Friday, January 31, 2025, the change aims to accommodate crucial adjustments in the registration process.

JAMB’s spokesperson, Fabian Benjamin, announced the development in a statement on Friday, explaining that the delay was necessary to allow the Board to implement modifications to its registration template.

According to Benjamin, these adjustments follow the recent suspension of Law programmes at several universities by the Council for Legal Education (CLE).

Additionally, the Board identified some Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres that obtained approval using deceptive facilities, necessitating a thorough review and disapproval of such centres.

“The Board acknowledges the disruption this may cause to candidates and other stakeholders and sincerely apologizes for any inconvenience,” the statement read.

JAMB assured that the extra time would be used to finalize all necessary changes to ensure a seamless registration process.

The Board had earlier announced that it would not be processing admissions into the Law programmes of certain universities for the 2025/2026 academic session, following the CLE’s decision to suspend their accreditation.

Furthermore, the restriction on Law programme registration at the Nigerian Police Academy will extend into the 2026/2027 academic session.

Universities Affected by Law Programme Suspension

1. Kwara State University, Malete, Ilorin, Kwara State

2. Bingham University, Karu, Nasarawa State

3. Redeemers University, Ede, Osun State

4. Western Delta University, Oghara, Delta State

5. Taraba State University, Jalingo, Taraba State

6. Arthur Jarvis University, Akpabuyo, Cross River State

7. Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State

8. Nigerian Police Academy, Wudil, Kano State

JAMB urged candidates seeking admission into Law programmes to verify their preferred institutions’ accreditation status before registration.

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