The Pacesetter Frontier Magazine

Category: News

This is an optional category description

  • CJN Summons Judges Over Conflicting Court Rulings on Rivers Crisis

    CJN Summons Judges Over Conflicting Court Rulings on Rivers Crisis

    The Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has summoned judges involved in conflicting rulings on political cases in Rivers State.

    A panel of the national judicial council will probe the judges, just as the CJN has ordered that the report be submitted this week.

    The panel will be headed by a former court of appeal justice and two heads of courts.

    The CJN has also summoned the chief judge of the federal high court for questioning on Tuesday.

    This summon comes after formal complaints were filed with the council.

    The Chief Judge of the Rivers State High Court will also appear before the NJC panel next week for the same purpose.

    During during her appearance before the Senate for screening and confirmation as the substantial CJN on September 25, Justice Kekere-Ekun had vowed that there will be zero tolerance for corruption in the judiciary.

    She pledged to do her best and uphold the integrity of the judiciary, the rule of law and defend the Constitution of Nigeria.

    “I am known for integrity and discipline, I will ensure zero tolerance for corruption,” Kekere-Ekun assured.

    “There is a need to insulate the judiciary, push for better welfare for judicial officers to ensure they perform at their optimal. Appointment of Judicial officers will also be stringently done.” Channels TV

  • Southern Governors pay condolence visit to Akwa Ibom Governor over wife’s demise

    …Eno Grateful To Colleagues, Nigerians Over Condolences, Moral Support 

    Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has expressed his profound gratitude to his colleague Governors and other eminent Nigerians for their condolences and moral support since the demise of his wife.

    At a condolence visit on him by members of the Southern Governors Forum, at Government House, Uyo, Governor Eno said the visits have been a source of support, consolation encouragement and upliftment in his trying times.

    He termed the visit a sacrifice of no mean measure, as the Governors had to leave their various responsibilities to their people only to visit on a Monday, and promised to reciprocate the gesture by committing himself more to the service of the people, even in the face of the difficult times he’s facing.

    In a tribute to the departed First Lady, the Governor described the late Pastor (Mrs) Patience Eno as his greatest cheerleader, most honest critic, consistent prayer partner, and one companion who understood him so we’ll, having been with him for 40 years.

    He however acknowledged that though his wife departed earlier than expected, she had left indelible marks on the sands of time, adding that the sustenance of her legacies had informed the nomination of his first daughter and closest assistant, Mrs. Helen Obareki, to continue coordinating the programmes of the office of the First Lady.

    Commiserating with the Governor, his family and the entire people of Akwa Ibom State, on behalf of the Governors of the 17 Southern States, the Chairman of the Forum, Prince Adedapo Abiodun, said the bond of brotherhood that binds the governors is far deeper than the things that divide them, describing Pastor (Mrs) Eno’s demise as a shared pain to all of them.

    Affirming the legacies of the late Pastor (Mrs.) Patience Umo Eno, Prince Abiodun, who is also Governor of Ogun State, further said that as mere mortals, there is the temptation of questioning why death should befall such a person, but admonished all to give praise to God for the great feats she achieved in her lifetime.

    He then prayed that God grants her soul eternal repose and the family, the fortitude and courage to go through the season of grief.

    In the delegation were the Chairman of the forum and Governor of Ogun State,
    Prince Adedapo Abiodun; Senator Ademola Adeleke of Osun State, Dr. Peter Mbah of Enugu State, Prof. Charles Soludo of Anambra State, Rt. Hon. Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State, and
    Abiodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State.

  • Igbo-Jah: Police Dismiss, Arraign Killer Officer, Ozonwanji

    …Gov Mbah awards scholarships to deceased’s children

    …We’ll prosecute expeditiously and diligently – Attorney-General

    The Nigeria Police, on Monday, arraigned before a Chief Magistrate’s Court, Police Inspector Joseph Ozonwanji, formerly of the Anti-Cultism Police Squad, Enugu, for the murder of an Igbo ogene musician, Okezie Mba, popularly known as Igbo-Jah, at the weekend.

    His arraignment followed his orderly room trial and approval of his dismissal and arraignment by the Assistant Inspector General of Police in charge of Zone 13, AIG Godwin Aghaulor.

    The police prosecution was led by the Officer-in-Charge of the Enugu State Police Command, SP Justice Attah and Emmanuel Ajogwu.

    The charge marked CME/614/2024, reads, “That you Ozonwanji Joseph ‘m’ on 25th day of October 2024 at about 2010hrs at anti-Cultism Police Squad, Goshen Estate Enugu in the Enugu North Magisterial District did unlawfully kill one Okezie Chikezie Nwamba ‘m’ by firing him with an AK47 Riffle, which caused his death and thereby committed an offence punishable under Section 274(1) of the Criminal Code, Cap 30, Vol. II, Revised Laws of Enugu State of Nigeria, 2024.”

    Thereafter, the Chief Administrative Magistrate, Enugu East Magistrate Court 1, Ngozi Edeani
    ordered for the case file to be transferred to the Attorney-General of the State, and for the suspect to be remanded at the Enugu Correctional Centre.

    Briefing newsmen after the arraignment, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Enugu State Command, DSP Daniel Ndukwe, said the accused’s arraignment for murder was in keeping with the promise and determination of the Enugu State Government and the police to ensure that justice was done in the matter.

    “It is important to inform our people that the Chief Magistrate has listened to the charge brought against the dismissed police officer and has asked that the case file be transmitted to the Attorney General of Enugu State to proceed from there and advise accordingly for the next line of action.

    “This is one trial we want to see happen. We are talking about a human life. Police men generally have that responsibility to protect lives, but if, for whatsoever reason, any police officer misuses his firearm, the liability is on the person. That’s is exactly what has happened today. You could see the Enugu State Government and the police command in the state have done everything possible to ensure that justice prevails in this case,’ Ndukwe stated.

    Speaking on the matter, the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Kingsley Udeh, said his office would expect the file and act expeditiously.

    “This is a matter His Excellency is very much determined to see to the very end to ensure that justice is done to everyone involved. I also have his instruction to personally prosecute this matter as the Attorney General. This underscores the import he places on it. And I will do exactly that. We will prosecute diligently and expeditiously,” he assured.

    Meanwhile, Governor Peter Mbah has announced the award of scholarship up to university level to the three children of the deceased musician, while also taking charge of the health of his sick wife.

    This was announced by the Commissioner for Children, Gender Affairs, and Social Development, Mrs. Ngozi Enih, during a visit to the home of the deceased by herself, Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dame Ugochi Maadueke, and the Chairman of Enugu North LGA, Hon. Ibenaku Onoh, on Monday.

    “The Governor, in his magnanimity has awarded scholarships to the children to university level. Secondly, the state is going to take care of the welfare of Mrs Igbo-Jah going forward.

    This is a calamity to everybody, who loves Enugu State and who is an indigene of Enugu State. The Enugu state government is on top of the matter and they are going to make sure that justice prevails in this matter.

    “With me here are the children of the late Igbo-Jah, and the governor has promised them that he is not only going to take care of them from now till university, but also promised to take care of their welfare,” she stated.

  • Gov Mbah Flags-off dualization of 43.7 Penoks-Abakpa Nike-Opi-Nsukka Road

    Gov Mbah Flags-off dualization of 43.7 Penoks-Abakpa Nike-Opi-Nsukka Road

    …Mbah is godsent to Nsukka zone- Igwe Asadu

    …You’ve proven yourself more Nsukka than any Nsukka man- Ezenta Ezeani

    …Enugu has suddenly become a reference point for transformational projects – Dennis Agbo

    …We’ll deliver on schedule and quality – Contractor

    Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, has flagged-off the construction and dualisation of the 43.7km Penoks-Abakpa Nike-Ugwogo-Nike-Opi Nsukka Road with streetlights and 18-month completion timeframe in line with his administration’s vision to make the state the premier destination for investment, business, tourism, and living.

    Speaking during the flag-off ceremony at Opi attended by political heavy weights and leaders of Nsukka Zone, Mbah stressed that the the project, which includes straightening the of many bends, would drastically reduce accidents and criminality on the road.

    “In the build-up to the election and in my acceptance speech after my election, we made a pledge that we are going to dualise the Penoks-Abakpa-Ugwogo-Opi-Nsukka Road because . we realised from the outset that if we had to grow this economy to an exponential height, no section of this state should be left behind, more so an economic hub like Nsukka Zone. So, all we are doing here today is connecting those dots,” he said.

    Mbah regretted that a trip from Enugu to Nsukka presently takes over an hour, hence the decision to do the 3.6km from the Penoks Junction all the way to the T-Junction flyover in addition to the 41km Abakpa Nike-Opi Nsukka Road to reduice travel time to about 30 minutes and make it possible for the people to comfortably live and work in Enugu and vice versa.

    He also noted that his administration’s grassroot-based development and economic model placed the Enugu North Zone at an advantage.

    “We are doing projects based on electoral wards. Guess who are the greatest beneficiaries of this model? It is the Nsukka zone. You have 102 electoral wards. That means you will end up with 102 smart schools, 102 Type 2 Primary Healthcare Centres, over 1,000km of roads based since we are additionally going to do at least 10km of roads per ward,” he remarked.

    In his remark, the traditional ruler of Edem-Ani and Chairman, Enugu State Traditional Rulers Council, Igwe Samuel Asadu, said, “The people of Nsukka cultural zone and Enugu North Senatorial District never imagined the possibility of this life-time project. The only way we can pay you back is that you do not need to come to campaign here for your second tenure because we are all going to do that for you. You are Godsent to the people of Nsukka, Enugu State and Nigeria at large.”

    Also speaking, the Deputy Speaker of the Enugu State House of Assembly, Hon. Ezeani Ezenta, noted that the governor had shut the mouths of naysayers.

    “I feel emotional because a lot of things were said during the election. But today, by your good work, you have proved yourself even more Nsukka than any other Nsukka man,” he emphasised.

    On his part, former Deputy Governor of Enugu State, Chief Okechukwu Itanyi, described the project as “gigantic, huge, unbelievable and marvelous,” noting that it would open Nsukka Zone and the state to the world.

    “This is a legacy project. Your name will never die. Your spirit shall never die. We will continue to give you support,” he added.

    Other speakers, including the Chairman of Nsukka Nsukka LGA, Hon. Jude Asogwa, former Secretaries to the State Government, Dr. Dan Shere and Prof. Simon Ortuanya, among others extolled the initiative.

    Significantly, in a press statement he personally issued on Monday, Member representing Igboeze North/Udenu Federal Constituency on the platform of the Labour Party, Hon. Dennis Agbo, described the road as “a transformational project, which will greatly facilitate commerce, ease mass transit and evacuation of farm produce by our hard working farmers as well as fight crime and criminality.“

    “Our governor has clearly demonstrated his uncanny ability to see and unleash the enormous potential of our dear state and people. It is heartwarming to note that Enugu has suddenly become a frontline state and a reference point for transformational project initiatives,” he stated.

    The Member representing Nkanu East/Nkanu West Federal Constituency and Leader of the Enugu State Caucus of the National Assembly, Hon
    Nnoli Nnaji, expressed the total delight of the federal lawmakers at the governor’s development initiatives and pledged their total support for him to move the state forward.

    Meanwhile the CEO of COMAG Construction Company, Cosmas Agu pledged to deliver a high quality project and on schedule.

  • Igbo-Jah’s Killing: Ignore call for sit-at-home in Enugu – State Gov’t

    Igbo-Jah’s Killing: Ignore call for sit-at-home in Enugu – State Gov’t

    …describes sponsors, promoters of sit-at-home as enemies of Ndi Igbo

    The Enugu State Government has dismissed as mischievous the illegal sit-at-home declared by some faceless non-state actors for Tuesday, October 29, 2024, over the unfortunate death of the popular Ogene musician, Okezie Mba, aka Igbo Jah, describing those behind the illegal order as criminals and opportunists who do not mean well for the Ndi Enugu and Ndi Igbo at large.

    While assuring the people that the state government and security agencies had already taken decisive action that would ensure that anyone found culpable in the unfortunate death of the musician is severely punished, it described the sponsors and promoters of sit-at-home as enemies of Enugu State and the Igbo nation.

    The government, therefore, directed citizens to disregard the illegal order and go about their normal activities, vowing to muster all powers at its disposal to protect the lives and property of the people, while the killers of the late Igbo Jah were already behind the bar for interrogation and prosecution.

    The government, in a statement issued by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Prof Chidiebere Onyia, on Sunday, said, “Our attention has been drawn to reports making the rounds on social media to the effect that some criminal and faceless non-state actors have declared a sit-at-home in Enugu State on Tuesday, October 29, 2024 purportedly to protest the unfortunate killing of the popular Ogene musician, Okezie Mba, aka Igbo Jah, by a police officer on Friday.

    “The Enugu State government once again restates its condemnation of the killing as abominable, unacceptable and totally against the values we hold dear, most especially the sanctity of human life.

    “Indeed, His Excellency, Governor Peter Mbah, spared no time in ordering a thorough investigation to unravel the circumstance of the killing with a view to bringing the perpetrator(s) to justice. Already, the culprit has been identified and in custody while investigation continues.

    “On Sunday morning, a delegation from the state government, led by the Secretary to the State Government and the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Barr Victor Udeh, visited the bereaved family to empathize with them and reemphasized government’s commitment to ensuring that justice is served.

    “The Enugu State government is, however, not surprised that criminal elements are seeking to exploit the unfortunate situation to cause mayhem in the state, restrict economic activities, and inflict more pain on our people.

    “These opportunists who play on the emotions of our people in the name of freedom agitation do not mean well for a people known for enterprise, hard work and creativity. They cannot be our true representatives. They do not represent the values we cherish. They are simply criminals and enemies of Ndi Igbo sponsored to destabilize the region.

    “To this end, and as usual, there shall be no compliance with the illegal sit-at-home order in any part of Enugu State on Tuesday, October 29, 2024. Government will muster all the powers at its disposal to ensure the security of lives and property of our people.

    “Government hereby charges civil servants, farmers, market men and women, the corporate sector, business and shop owners, schools, teachers, and all workers in Enugu State that the sit-at-homes belong to an inglorious past we must erase from our memories.”

    The government equally frowns at any attempt to incite fear and promote the illegal order through social media and other media platforms, stressing that anyone found sharing such content will be used as a scapegoat as a deterrent to others.

  • Shooting of Ogene Musician By Policeman: Enugu State Govt Visits Igbo-Jah’s Family

    The Enugu State Government, Sunday morning, paid a condolence visit to the family of the slain Ogene musician, Okezie Mba, popularly known as Igbo-Jah, at Ogui Nike Enugu, restating its determination to ensure that justice is served.

    The government delegation led by the Secretary to the State Government, SSG, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, and the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Barr. Victor Udeh, among other senior government officials, underscored the sanctity of human life in the state, saying it would not tolerate the killing of any Enugu citizen or resident.

    The condolence visit followed the fatal shooting of the popular Ogene musician at the weekend on his departure from the Ant-Cultism Tactical Squad facility after what the Enugu State Police Command described as a friendly visit.

    Recall that Governor Mbah had on Saturday taken to his social media handles to sympathise with Igbo-Jah’s family and fans, noting that he had ordered full investigation into the untimely death of the artiste.

    Addressing the elders of the family and the deceased’s young children, Prof. Onyia said, “We have come as a delegation from His Excellency, Governor Peter Mbah to the family to extend our deep condolences on the passing and brutal killing of your son, your brother and our brother. The governor has directed us to come and share in your deep pain and to deliver his message that we are going to make sure that justice is done.

    “The state government will work with this family every step of the way because enough is enough. Every single life in Enugu counts, and for us to wake up to such a sad news is something that we will never take lightly.

    “We appreciate the emotions because we see what is going on outside, but we want to importantly commend the eldest in the family and the rest of the family for how they have received us well as a government delegation. You have also shown that maturity in working with us.

    “To the children, His Excellency is saying take heart. We will ensure that justice is served. That is one thing we can assure the family; we cannot sit down and fold our hands and allow such an incident to go without consequence.

    “We are really sorry about your loss, our loss. May God strengthen and bless this family as we go through these difficult times,” the SSG said.

    Responding, the family representative and Igbo-Jah’s elder brother, Chief Joseph Mba, said that Governor Mbah’s dispositions since the unfortunate incident underscored the determination to ensure that justice is done.

    “I want to appreciate our governor, Dr. Peter Mbah for the way he has responded to this incident and for his determination to ensure that justice prevails.

    “We are also counting on government’s help towards the welfare and education of his children and family – two boys, one girl, and of course, his wife.

    “But importantly, we want to thank the governor from the bottom of our hearts for the way he has shown human feeling and leadership on this matter. We have seen his determination to do things differently,” he said.

    Meanwhile, the Enugu State Police had on Saturday announced the arrest of the suspected killer cop, Inspector Ozonwanji Joseph and also released his photographs, assuring that “he will be made to face the full weight of the law upon the conclusion of the investigation.”

    Enugu State Police Command Led By CP Kanayo Visits IgboJah’s Family

    The Enugu State Command’s Commissioner of Police, CP Kanayo Uzuegbu, psc (+), on October 26, 2024, also visited the family of the deceased Ogene musian, Chikezie Okezie Nwamba (a.k.a. Igbo-Jah), to console the family over the unfortunate shooting and murder of the musician by a police officer.

    CP Kanayo reassured the family, relatives, friends, and good people of Enugu State that the ongoing investigation into the case will be concluded within record time and justice duly served.

    The CP emphasized that the Nigeria Police Force remains a disciplined organisation where erring police officers are made to face the consequences of their actions to serve as deterrence to others. He restated his sympathy and empathy to everyone affected by the unfortunate and callous murder of the musician, urging all and sundry to keep faith with the police while justice is done to the case.

    Meanwhile, Police Inspector Ozonwanji Joseph “m”, whose unredacted photographs have been released, has been identified as responsible for the shooting. He is currently in custody and will be made to face the full weight of the law upon the conclusion of the investigation.

  • Bayelsa Gov Diri Approves ₦80,000 New Minimum Wage For Workers

    Bayelsa Gov Diri Approves ₦80,000 New Minimum Wage For Workers

    Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri, has approved the sum of ₦80,000 as the new minimum wage for workers in the state’s civil service with effect from November 1, 2024.

    Governor Diri also approved an increase in the monthly pension of retired workers as well as  ₦7 billion to reduce outstanding gratuity liabilities.

    His spokesperson, Daniel Alabrah, who disclosed these in a statement, said the Bayelsa governor acknowledged the challenging times workers face in the state due to the rise in the cost of living.

    The statement read: “To address the harsh times and in line with the National Minimum Wage (Amendment Act 2024), the Prosperity Administration of His Excellency Senater Douye Diri has approved the sum of N80,000 as minimum wage for the state’s workers

    “Governor Diri also approved an  increase in the monthly pension of state retire. The related consequential adjustments for the various sectors, as agreed with the leadership of Labour in the state, will be implemented.

    “To further ameliorate the challenges of our retired senior citizens, His Excellency also approved the payment and reduction of the outstanding gratuity liabilities by Seven Billion Naira.”

    He also stated that Governor Diri appreciates the workers of the State and their leadership for their understanding, patience and commitment to the policies and programmes of the Prosperity Government.

    Diri’s approval comes three days after Enugu Governor, Peter Mbah, announced a new minimum wage of N80,000 for civil servants in the state.Channels TV

  • Iwuanyanwu, championed national unity, built bridges in troubled times – Gov. Mbah

    Iwuanyanwu, championed national unity, built bridges in troubled times – Gov. Mbah

    Enugu State governor, Dr. Peter Mbah, has described the former President-General of Ohanaeze Ndi-Igbo, Late Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, as an irreplaceable iroko who championed national unity, built bridges and stretched his arms of friendship across different communities in Nigeria regardless of creed and belief, particularly in troubled times.

    Governor Mbah, who poured encomiums on the late Igbo leader during the Service of Songs and Tributes held in honour of his memory on Saturday in Enugu, said the grief evoked by his death would hardly be mitigated by time.

    While insisting that despite being candid and unpretentious in his view about burning national issues, Chief Iwuanyanwu was a patriotic Nigerian who discouraged divisiveness, ethnic coloration and spoke for every Nigerian, he was always on the side of truth and justice.

    “Chief Iwuanyanwu was a quintessential statesman, an icon, pan-Nigerian, national colossus, and absolute patriot, who devoted his life to the pursuit of peace and progress of Ndi Igbo and Nigeria. Ahaejiagamba took up the mantle of leadership of Ohanaeze Ndi Igbo at a very difficult, and acquitted himself creditably as a courageous leader, whose vision was to chart a new roadmap for Igbo renaissance in the Nigerian commonwealth. He was a bridge-builder, and the espoused were never coloured by ethnicity or creed. In his death, Nigeria has lost a statesman; and the South East, a strong voice whose shoes will be hard to fill,” Mbah added.

    Sharing his personal encounter with the late sage, the governor said the impression he was left with at the death of Dr. Iwuanyanwu was that he was a lover of the Igbo people with strong devotion for the Nigerian project.

    He recalled how the late Ohanaeze leader visited him a number of occasions to seek his advice on the posthumous project of honouring past Igbo sons and daughters who had distinguished themselves and impacted on the development and transformation of the Igbo society.

    Governor Mbah equally extolled him as a man ahead of his time and for embodying the true spirit of the Igbo people through his entrepreneurship legacies which laid the foundation for many Igbo youths to excel in their careers.

    “In many ways, Chief Iwuanyanwu was a trailblazer, literally lighting the path for younger generation of entrepreneurs and venture capitalists, from civil engineering to newspapers publishing. His grit and innovative spirit was further underlined by his ownership of a private commercial airline at a time such feat was a rarity.

    “He invested in sports in an era when ownership in football clubs was still the exception. In deploying vast resources to sports development and many philanthropic causes, he demonstrated that wealth should never be an end in itself. His capacity to create was only matched by his capacity to give. His roots have nourished us all and he has reached far into our community with the spirit of generosity and service,” Mbah enthused.

    The governor, while calling for the immortalization of Dr. Iwuanyanwu for the meaningful life and uncommon legacies left behind by him, expressed optimism that by imbibing the values that defined his life, his memory will be preserved.

    Dignitaries at the event included the Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodimma, who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Mrs Chinyere Ekomaru, Enugu State Deputy Governor, Barr Ifeanyi Ossai, Speaker, Enugu State House of Assembly, Hon Uche Ugwu, Senator Victor Umeh, Senator Uche Ekwunife, Enugu State PDP Chairman, Dr Martin Chukwuweike, wife of Nigeria first president, Prof Uche Azikiwe, Chairman, Enugu State Traditional Rulers Council, His Majesty, Igwe Samuel Asadu, former governor of Ebonyi State, Senator Sam Egwu, among other eminent personalities.

  • Shot By a Police Officer During a ‘Friendly Visit’ – Enugu Gov Mourns Ogene Musician, Igbo Jah, as Protests Erupt

    Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, has mourned the untimely death of Ogene musician, Chikezie Mba, popularly known as Igbo-Jah, ordering a thorough investigation into the sad development.

    The youthful musician was reportedly shot by a police officer on his departure from the Anti-Cultism Tactical Squad after what the police described as a “friendly visit”.

    Reacting to the development on Saturday, Mbah took to his social media handles to condole with the deceased’s family, stressing that he had ordered a full investigation into the matter.

    “I received with a deep sense of grief the untimely death of Okezie Mba, popularly known as Igbo Jah, under a very sad circumstance. It is a huge loss for us as Ndigbo in general and Ndi Enugu in particular.

    “He was one of the Enugu and Igbo talents, who continued to popularise the Igbo culture through their ogene music.

    “I have been briefed by the police and I have equally ordered a thorough investigation into the matter to ensure justice for him, his family, and fans around the world.

    “On behalf of Ndi Enugu, I also send my heartfelt condolences to his family and fans. May God grant his soul eternal repose,” the governor wrote.

    Protest erupts in Enugu over murder of Enugu musician

    There is heavy protest by aggrieved residents of Enugu and relatives of Igbo Jah, an Enugu-based musician who was murdered by a now arrested police Inspector serving with the anti-cult unit of Enugu State Police Command.

    According to eyewitness reports, it was learnt that hundreds of aggrieved residents had marched to the anti-cult headquarters and had attempted to burn the facility down but were resisted by police officers on ground.

    However the protesters have blocked roads in some parts of the state capital including Onu Asata where they are currently burning tires and chanting angry songs.

  • Israel says it launched ‘targeted’ air strikes on Iran

    Tehran at sunrise on Saturday morning, following Israeli strikes on sites around the Iranian capital
    Image caption, Tehran at sunrise on Saturday morning, following Israeli strikes on sites around the Iranian capital

    Israel says it has conducted air strikes against Iran, with its military saying it hit sites in several areas of the country early on Saturday.

    The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said Israeli aircraft struck military facilities including air defence batteries and missile manufacturing facilities used to produce weapons, adding that the strikes would provide the IDF “broader freedom of aerial action” in future.

    Iranian state media reported several explosions in and around the capital, Tehran.

    Israeli retaliation for an Iranian barrage of almost 200 ballistic missiles fired towards Israel on 1 October had been widely expected for weeks.

    At the time, Tehran said the attack was in retaliation for the killing of Hamas’s political leader on Iranian soil in July. Many missiles were shot down by Israel and its allies but a small number struck central and southern Israel.

    The Israeli military claimed credit for Saturday’s operation shortly after explosions were reported in Iran. IDF spokesperson Rear Adm Daniel Hagari said the military had “fulfilled its mission” and demonstrated its preparedness “to defend the state of Israel”.

    Iranian authorities said sites in Tehran, Khuzestan and Ilam provinces were attacked. The military claimed that the attacks had been successfully countered, although there was “limited damage” in some locations.

    The US, one of Israel’s closest allies, said Saturday’s strike against Iran was an “exercise of self-defence,” language echoed by the UK, where a government spokesman said Israel has a “right to self-defence”.

    Tehran said it had attacked Israel in retaliation for what it called the “violation of Iran’s sovereignty and the martyrdom” of Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh, who was killed by an explosion in Tehran in July that Iranian officials blamed on Israel.

    At the time, Iran said the attack was also in response to the Israeli air strike in the southern suburbs of Beirut that killed Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah and Brig-Gen Abbas Nilforoushan, a high-ranking Iranian official.

    Speaking after Israel launched its strikes on Saturday, a White House official said President Joe Biden “has been briefed and is closely following the developments”. A UK government spokesman said London was closely monitoring the situation.

    However, a US defence official stressed that there had been no US involvement in the Israeli strikes on Saturday.

    The extent of the attacks and the precise targets were still unclear on Saturday morning.

    Iran’s aviation authority briefly suspended flights but announced that they would restart from 09:00 local time (06:30 BST).

    Israeli air strikes also targeted sites in central and southern Syria, Syrian state media reported.

    Two soldiers killed in Israeli strikes, Iranian army says 

    Two Iranian soldiers were killed in the Israeli strikes on Saturday morning, the Iranian army said.

    Without clarifying where the deaths happened, the statement published on state media said that the soldiers were killed “confronting the projectiles of the criminal Zionist entity,” a reference to Israel.

    Israel’s retaliatory attack on Iran targeted its air defense systems and missile production facilities in the provinces of Tehran, Khuzestan and Ilam. The extent of the damage is not yet known.

    “The army of the Islamic Republic of Iran in defending the security of Iranian territory and preventing harm against the people and interests of Iran has sacrificed two personnel while confronting the projectiles of the criminal Zionist entity,” the statement published on Iranian media said.

    BBC/CNN

  • Police Officer Responsible For Alleged Murder of Enugu Popular Ogene Musician, Igbo-Jah, Arrested

    Police Officer Responsible For Alleged Murder of Enugu Popular Ogene Musician, Igbo-Jah, Arrested

    …CP Kanayo orders full-scale investigation and disciplinary action against the police officer

    …consoles and assures all connected to the musician that the police officer and anyone else found culpable will be appropriately sanctioned to serve as a deterrent

    A male Police Inspector serving in the Anti-Cultism Tactical Squad of the Enugu State Police Command has been arrested and detained for the alleged murder of a male traditional Ogene musician, Okezie Chikezie Mba, popularly known as Igbo-Jah. The incident occurred around 8:10 p.m. on October 25, 2024, at the Tactical Squad’s Headquarters.

    According to a statement by the Police, the musician was reportedly leaving the Squad’s Headquarters after a friendly visit when, for reasons yet to be ascertained, the police officer fired his rifle, hitting the victim. He was immediately rushed to the hospital, where he was confirmed dead by the attending doctor. His body has been deposited in the mortuary for preservation and autopsy.

    The Commissioner of Police, CP Kanayo Uzuegbu, psc (+), has ordered the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the State CID to conduct a full-scale investigation that will facilitate prompt and appropriate disciplinary actions against the police officer.

    The Commissioner empathises and consoles the victim’s family, friends, and associates, describing the unfortunate incident as unacceptable. He assures that the police officer and anyone else found culpable will be sanctioned in line with the law to serve as a deterrent.

    CP Kanayo urges everyone connected to the victim to remain calm and cooperate with the police to ensure that justice is served.

  • Enugu: Nkanu-West Local Council Maiden New Yam (Iri Ji) Festival Postponed

    Enugu: Nkanu-West Local Council Maiden New Yam (Iri Ji) Festival Postponed

    Chetanne Chinelo, Enugu

    The Nkanu West Local Government Council of Enugu State led by Hon. John Chukwuma Ogbodo, in collaboration with the Nkanu West Traditional Rulers Council led by HRH Eze-Igwe Barr. Igwesi Obiora Igwesi has announced the postponement of the earlier announced New Yam Festival celebration, ‘Iri Ji Ofuu’.

    The announcement of the postponement of the maiden cultural celebration which was initially scheduled to hold on Sunday, October 27, 2024 was contained in a terse statement jointly signed by the Executive Chairman of Nkanu West Local Government Council, Hon. John Ogbodo and the Chairman of Nkanu West Traditional Rulers Council, HRH Eze-Igwe Barr. Igwesi Obi Igwesi and made available to PACESETTER.

    The announcement reads:

    POSTPONMENT OF THE SCHEDULED NEW YAM FESTIVAL CELEBRATION,’IRI Ji OFUU’, AT NKANU WEST LOCAL GOVT. SECRETARIAT, AGBANI

    The Executive Chairman, Nkanu West Local Government, in conjunction with the Chairman of Nkanu West Traditional Rulers’ Council, wish to announce the postponement of the scheduled New Yam festival celebration,’Iri Ji Ofuu’ earlier slated for Sunday, 27th October, 2024, to another date to be communicated to our People and esteemed Stakeholders in future.

    We sincerely regret the inconveniences this postponement may have caused our highly respected invitees.

    Thanks.

    Signed:
    Hon. John Chukwuma Ogbodo
    Executive Chairman,
    Nkanu West Local Govt. Area.

    HRH Eze Barr Igwesi Obiora Igwesi
    Chairman, Nkanu West Traditional Rulers’ Council.