Politics

On IPOB’s reign of terror, yet again

Latest Politics updatein nigeria

Following the resurgence of terrorists attacks by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and Eastern Security Network (ESN) members, the satellite campus of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), a state-owned university located in Uli, Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State, was closed down on May 10, 2023. The terrorists had, armed with guns and […]
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Following the resurgence of terrorists attacks by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and Eastern Security Network (ESN) members, the satellite campus of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), a state-owned university located in Uli, Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State, was closed down on May 10, 2023.

The terrorists had, armed with guns and other lethal weapons, stormed the streets, in their numbers on motorbikes, and shot sporadically at the junction leading to the university along the Onitsha-Owerri expressway, claiming to enforce a three-day sit-at-home order it imposed. They shut down all commercial activities and movements, forcing academic and non-academic staff of the university to scamper for safety.

Operating from camps in neighbouring Orsu and Oru East LGAs of Imo State and their camps in Orsumoghu and Lilu towns in Ihiala LGA, the terrorists have been carrying out hit-and-run operations in various communities in and around the area.

Since the lull experienced during the general elections, the spate of killings and violence has resumed. The same day the university was closed, security forces killed a deadly trans-border terrorist gang of four, including their leader, Odumodu, in Anambra State. Odumodu is alleged to have been behind many terror activities in Imo and Anambra states. Recovered from them were AK-47 rifles, four pump action guns, and two Rocket Propelled Grenades (RPG).

A day after the university was closed down, a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential Campaign Council in Imo State, Captain Tony Enoch, a retired military officer, was killed in Awommamma, Oru East LGA of the state.

On March 26, 2023, two police officers were killed when the terrorists attacked a checkpoint along Kenyatta Road near the main gate of the University of nigeria, Enugu Campus in Enugu North Local Government Area of the state. Two officers escaped with gunshot injuries. And on Tuesday, May 16, two staff of the United States Embassy in nigeria were shot dead alongside two policemen in Ogbaru Local Government Area of Anambra State. Sources said the convoy of the embassy staff was attacked while passing through the area.

Politics

Lagos Govt Appoints Musician KWAM1’s Daughter as Special Adviser

Latest Politics updatein nigeria

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has sparked mixed reactions with the appointment of Basirat Damilola Marshall, daughter of popular Fuji musician KWAM1 (King Wasiu Ayinde Marshall), as a Senior Special Assistant (SSA).

The announcement, made on Thursday, comes without disclosed portfolio details for Ms. Basirat. While some Lagosians see the move as a potential recognition of youth and a nod to the cultural influence of KWAM1, others raise concerns about nepotism and a lack of transparency regarding qualifications.

This was according to a viral Update of her father thanking the governor, and congratulatory messages posted on her Instagram page, @damimarshall_ on Thursday.

In the viral Update, her father, KWAM1, while performing on stage at the coronation and birthday reception of Oba Sikirullah Apena on Thursday, thanked Sanwo-Olu for appointing his daughter into his cabinet.

The fuji singer noted that it was his daughter, Damilola, who asked him to publicly thank the governor for her appointment.

Until her appointment, Damilola was a principal partner at a law firm, Damilola Ayinde Marshal and Co.

Politics

Coastal Highway Dispute: Obi Calls Out Umahi to Substantiate Allegations

Latest Politics updatein nigeria

The 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has addressed what he calls the “distortion of facts” surrounding his actions and statements during his tenure as governor of Anambra State, particularly concerning the ongoing demolitions for the construction of the Lagos-Calabar coastal super highway.

In a statement on Thursday via his X account, Obi stated, “I aim to address these issues directly, devoid of political rhetoric, to ensure clarity for all. Let me be unequivocal: during my governorship, I made it abundantly clear that all structures obstructing existing roads and lacking approval would be removed.”

Referring to a circulated Update, Obi clarified, “The circulated Update clearly stated this, and I only initiated removal when construction had already commenced. Any insinuation otherwise is a blatant misrepresentation of the truth.”

He challenged critics, saying, “I challenge anyone to verify and show me where the demolished structures on existing roads or ongoing businesses were not encroaching on the road and built without government approval while I served as governor.”

Obi cited the demolition of the Onitsha North local government headquarters situated on the only existing stadium.

“I decisively demolished the Onitsha North local government headquarters situated on the only existing stadium, relocated, and built a brand new structure for the local government office away from the stadium,” he explained.

Politics

Akpabio: No Nigerian Will Work Under Inhuman Conditions Again

Latest Politics updatein nigeria

The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, has assured Nigerian workers that the National Assembly and the executive arm of government would work collaboratively to give them a living wage and better working conditions.

The Senate President declared that “No Nigerian worker will again be allowed to work under inhuman conditions. We will do everything to give you the best because you deserve the best.”

He made the declaration in a statement on Wednesday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Eseme Eyiboh, to congratulate the workers as they commemorate the 2024 May Day.

Akpabio, in the message, extolled the sterling qualities that stood out to the Nigerian workers, saying, “A Nigerian worker is noted for his patriotism, hard work, resilience, and dedication to duty.

“I am happy to be associated with the Nigerian workers in the last more than 25 years and I can attest to the fact that everywhere you go, the Nigerian worker’s spirit resonates profoundly.”

Speaking on this year’s theme for Workers’ Day, “Ensuring safety and health at work in a changing climate,” Akpabio promised that the National Assembly under his leadership was more than committed to ensuring the best working conditions for the Nigerian workers.