Category: News

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has expressed “utter dismay” at the recent social media advert by FrieslandCampina WAMCO Nigeria PLC, makers of Peak Milk, which used the crucifixion of Jesus Christ as a metaphor to promote their product on Good Friday.

The government of the United Kingdom (UK) has announced restrictions on the “active” recruitment of health and social care workers from Nigeria by its public and private healthcare organisations.

The presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Peter Obi, has assured his followers, popularly referred to as ‘Obidients’, that he and his running mate Datti Baba-Ahmed are with them.

This comes days after the 61-year-old distanced himself from a purportedly leaked phone call between himself and the founder of Living Faith Church Worldwide aka Winners Chapel, Bishop David Oyedepo.

While denying the authenticity of the viral audio, he raised the alarm about pressure by unidentified adversaries on him to flee Nigeria.

In a series of tweets on Monday, Obi encouraged his supporters, saying allegedly orchestrated efforts to demarket and delegitimise the “OBIdient Movement” would fail.

He argued that members of his base face and pass through a litany of challenges, including flawed electoral processes, insecurity, weak institutions, multidimensional poverty, unemployment, inflation, lack of justice, fairness, equity, and opportunities.

“As we reflect on these challenges and look forward to a New Nigeria that is POssible, Datti and I are painfully mindful that for the mere reason of being OBIdient, most of you have suffered vituperations, physical attacks, loss of rights and privileges, hateful trolls, indignities and vexatious fighting words, even from some of those we long regarded as civic leaders and conscience of our nation,” he said.

He urged Obidients to bear such attacks as the sacrifices that they are required to make in order to create a New Nigeria, where justice, equity, fairness, love and prosperity shall reign.

“Be assured that Datti and I are with you, and that the ongoing unfortunate orchestrated efforts to demarket and delegitimize the OBIdient Movement will fail,” Obi said.

“We are fully structured and have remained focused and steadfast in addressing the ills in our nation; while underpinning the supremacy of our Constitution and imperatives of the rule of law.”

Asking his followers not to relent or be lured into “unnecessary conflicts”, he assured them that “in the fullness of time, our mission to rescue Nigeria from those engaged in State Capture will come to fruition.”

The LP candidate restated his and his supporters’ desire to use all lawful and peaceful means allowed under Nigeria’s laws and constitution to “reclaim our mandate to create a New Nigeria that is POssible”.

Obi added that “in all your actions and inactions”, they should be law-abiding, respectful and peaceful.

“In all you do, always remember those immortal words of Dr. Martin Luther King Jnr, that “The true measure of a man is not how he behaves in moments of comfort and convenience, but how he stands at times of controversy and challenges”. A New Nigeria is Indeed POssible,” he said.

(Channels TV)

Governor Chukwuma Soludo has tasked the newly inaugurated members of the Anambra State Internal Revenue Service to increase the state’s internally generated revenue (IGR), describing the agency as the lifeblood of every government.

Soludo disclosed this on Monday during the inauguration of members of the board at the Governor’s Lodge, Amawbia.

The governor reminded them that the state was yet to start generating up to N3 billion a month on IGR and that over 180 percent turnaround on the state revenue is required as the 2023 budget depends on it.

In like manner, the Board of Anambra State Housing Development Corporation was inaugurated with a charge to bring about a positive disruptive change in the sector and bridge the gap of millions of housing deficits in the state.

The board chaired by former Deputy Governor of Anambra, Emeka Sibeudu, was also mandated to develop housing structures that would suit the desires of the people.

The chairman pledged complete commitment to disruptive change in the state’s housing development.

While the revenue board will be interfacing with the governor every three months for evaluation, the housing board is expected to build model estates.

(Channels TV)

…Condoles with affected families

The governor-elect of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, has expressed sadness over the fatal accident that claimed 15 lives at Ituku, along the Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway on the eve of Easter.

Mbah, in a statement signed by Dan Nwomeh, Head, Peter Mbah Media Office, on Monday, while condoling with the families of the deceased and praying for the peaceful repose of the souls of the departed, described the incident as a heavy and collective loss to the state, urging for greater caution by road users.

“I received with a deep sense of loss the news of the fatal accident that claimed 15 lives at the Ituku axis of the Enugu–Port Harcourt expressway on the eve of Easter. My heart bleeds at this gruesome development and indeed goes out to the families and friends, who lost their loved ones.

“It is a collective loss to us as a people and I urge all to pray the Almighty God to grant the affected families and friends the fortitude to bear the tragic losses. Let us also join them in prayers for the peaceful repose of the souls of their loved ones.

“May I also urge all road users to be more mindful of road rules and regulations for the safety of all. While also saluting the efforts of our law enforcement agents, I equally call for stricter enforcement of the rules and regulations to minimise such unfortunate incidents, especially during festive seasons,” the statement read.

He commended the Enugu State Commissioner of Police, CP Ahmed Ammani, for instituting a full-scale investigation into the road accident, noting that it would be helpful in the efforts to make the roads safer.

Over fifteen occupants of a Toyota bus were killed and burnt beyond recognition on Saturday, April 8, 2023, when the bus had a head-on collision with a Mercedes truck on the Port Harcourt-Enugu Highway.

The spokesman of the FRSC, assistant corps marshal Bisi Kazeem confirmed the accident in a statement he issued yesterday in Abuja.

Kazeem said the accident took place at the Enugu end of the highway at about 8.20 p.m.

“The Enugu State Fire Service already extinguished the fire in the bus. The fatal crash was blamed on several factors including fatigue, which must have made one of the drivers to sleep on the wheels,’’ he stated.

While also confirming the accident yesterday, the state police command public relations officer, Daniel Ndukwe, said it occurred at about 8.30 pm on Saturday

Ndukwe, who issued a statement, said, “Enugu State Police Command regrets to inform the general public that on April 8, 2023 at about 8.30pm, a fatal motor accident involving a Mercedes Benz Tipper with registration number AAA 285 XR and an 18-seater commuter to Enugu South Mass Transit bus, with registration number: NKE 622 XA, occurred at Ituku Awgu LGA, on Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway.

“Preliminary investigation reveals that the Tipper loaded with bags of cement and plying against traffic from Enugu City, had a head-on collision with the bus loaded with passengers and coming from Aba, Abia State, which resulted in the both vehicles bursting up in flames and all the occupants burnt beyond recognition, except the driver of the Tipper, who was found alive and is currently admitted in the hospital.

“Meanwhile, the commissioner of police, CP Ahmed Ammani, while bemoaning the unfortunate incident in this Easter season, when Christians in the state and the world over are commemorating the resurrection of Jesus Christ, has prayed for the repose of the souls of the deceased and also consoled their families, friends and loved ones,” he said.

The CP also ordered the state traffic officer to carry out a full-scale motor traffic investigation into the incident, including evacuating the remains and obtaining the exact identities of the deceased victims and their relatives, as well as coming up with an actionable report.

He cautioned motorists against disobeying road traffic rules, while he reiterated that the only way to safety on the road is to “exercise caution, patience and obey all road traffic rules and regulations.”

(Leadership)

President Muhammadu Buhari has condemned the recent bout of killings in Benue State.

The president, in a statement by Garba Shehu, a presidential media aide, urged that all efforts must be made to end what he called “extreme violence.”

There has been reported killing of over 80 in Umogidi community of Entekpa-Adoka in Otukpo Local Government Area of the state.

Thirty-four people were also reportedly killed in Mgaban village in Benue North local government area on Friday.

The president condemned the use of terrorism as a tool in inter communal conflicts.

Mr Buhari said the attackers must be found and dealt with accordingly.

“He conveyed his grief and sympathy to the families of those who lost their lives due to the attack and directed the secret services, police and military commanders to enhance surveillance on every front and to immediately review the security management in the affected areas,” the statement said.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of those murdered. The entire nation stands united in the fight against the forces of terror and evil,” Mr Shehu quoted the president as saying.

Benue, in north-central part of Nigeria suffers from communal violence, farmer and herders clashes among other criminalities.

(Premium Times)

As  Christians all over the world remember the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, Nigeria’s President-Elect, Sen. Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Presidential candidates of the Labour Party and Peoples Democratic Party, Mr Peter Obi and Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, have all felicitated with Christians in Nigeria, tasking them to imbibe the messages of Peace, Love, Hope, etc, that Christ’s death reflected.

The President-elect, Senator Bola Tinubu  urged Nigerians to reflect on the priceless sacrifice and limitless love of God for mankind at Easter.

The President-elect enjoined Christians across the country to emulate the virtues of Jesus Christ by showing love to neighbours, regardless of tongue, faith and tribe as they celebrate Easter.

He noted that Easter was about renewed hope and redemption, adding that it symbolised the triumph of hope over despair, love over hate and condemnation, and optimism over cynicism.

“Let us embrace this spirit and recommit ourselves to edifying and patriotic pursuits in the interest of our nation.

“I send my best wishes to Christians in Nigeria and all over the world who are celebrating Easter this Sunday.

“As we all enjoy the well-deserved break, I urge every Nigerian to reflect on the priceless sacrifice and limitless love of God for mankind.

“For Christians everywhere, this celebration is in commemoration of Jesus Christ’s life of service and his supreme sacrifice for the salvation of mankind.

“Let us all imbibe the essential message of Christ’s ministry and truly begin to love our fellow Nigerians as we love ourselves,” he said

According to the two-term former governor of Lagos State, we will make faster progress toward the achievement of the peaceful, united, strong, progressive and prosperous country we all desire if we eschew divisive, parochial, ethnic, religious sentiments and rivalries.

He urged Nigerians to begin to live more harmoniously with their compatriots.

Obi urges Nigerians, not to despair but remain hopeful, peaceful

…Felicitates with Muslims during Ramadan

The Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party, LP, Peter Obi, has urged Nigerians not to despair in the face of tribulations and provocations because Easter is about hope and promise for all who believe.

He made the appeal in a message to Nigerian Christians celebrating Easter as well as Muslims who are observing the Ramadan fast. His statement was made available to newsmen in Abuja, on Saturday.

Obi who noted that Muslims are in the middle of their 30 days of special prayers and fasting that will culminate in Eid El Fitr said he is praying with them during this solemn period for a great and peaceful Nigeria ahead.

He said, “To our Muslim brothers and sisters who are well into the Ramadan fasting period, which will culminate in the Eid El Fitr, my special greetings and prayers are with you as we look forward to a joyous celebration.

“Given that we are all united as brothers and sisters, and in our trust in the mercies and infinite benevolence of God Almighty, I urge all Nigerians particularly the youths not to despair in the face of many challenges and tribulations we are facing as a country.

“We continue to thank God for all His blessings on Nigeria and pray for a better and New Nigeria where equity, fairness, peace, unity, accountable leadership, and prosperity shall reign.

Obi said in the Easter message said if Jesus our messiah died for us and rose from death to fight for us why should we be hopeless at anything?

“Every religion believes that God our creator is of justice, so why should we as his children not expect it from him?

“The main significance of Easter that the Christendom celebrate this time is that it marks the Resurrection of Jesus Christ three days after his death by crucifixion.

“The three most significant events in it are the trial of Jesus, the death of Jesus, and finally the resurrection.

“What is the strength here for us, it gives all who believe in Christ the courage and hope that the Lord they serve, worship, and adore is alive and not dead. And that Good Friday must come before Easter Sunday. Meaning that the road to Alleluia is not smooth but it must come.

Obi further said that “Easter is therefore a celebration and festival of hope knowing that our messiah is alive and not dead. Easter gives us hope of eternal life which is what every believer is working for.

“If therefore we know that Easter gives us hope that our savior is alive after dying for our sake, why should we despair.?

“So, fellow Nigerians, dear obidients, of all faith and class, never despair as I pray that the blessings of the resurrection will remain with us in the face of any tribulations because our redeemer is living and active”

Obi wished all Christians a happy cel ebration and pray that the message and blessings of Easter will remain with us.

Ethnicity, Religion not Nigeria’s problem — Atiku Abubakar

The presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP Atiku Abubakar said ethnicity and religion are not the problems of Nigeria’s development.

The former Vice President stated this in his message, posted on his verified Facebook page on Saturday, commemorating this year’s Easter.

He said, “We must not allow those who seek to divide us to pretend as if our problems are a result of another ethnic or religious group.”

According to Atiku, Easter celebration was a time for deep reflection as it marked the sacrifice of Jesus Christ and his victory over death.

He said, “It is a time to reach out to our brothers and sisters in need.

“It is also a time for all of us — regardless of faith or ethnicity — to come together to pray for the peace of our nation. We must all remain constant in our efforts to promote unity — across all lines — because united, our nation remains stronger, and we can thrive as a people.

“Our shared experiences bring us to the conclusion that no matter what the forces of evil can do, we, as Nigerians, united in doing good, can and shall prevail,” he added.

Atiku urged leaders at all levels to follow the virtues that defined this season – sacrifice, love, and charity – “and come together to help all Nigerians resolve the differences that divide us.”

He said Nigerians must collectively own their problems and collectively find solutions to overcome them.

(Pacesetter/Vanguard)

Armed bandits have abducted about 60 persons, mostly children, in the border communities of Zamfara and Katsina states.

The affected victims are from the Kucheri, Wanzamai, and Danwuri communities of Tsafe Local Government Area of Zamfara State, and Yankara town in Faskari Local Government Area of Katsina State.

The incidents happened early hours of Friday when the terrorists were moving from Sububu Forest in Zamfara State to neighbouring Birnin-Gwari Forest in Kaduna State.

Although police authorities in the state are yet to confirm the incident, Channels Television gathered that the terrorists were fleeing Zamfara territory due to heavy military bombardment that led to the killing of over 100 bandits within the week.

A resident of Tsafe, Ahmad Kucheri, told Channels Television that the fleeing bandits who suffered heavy casualties from the military were abducting people they sight along their way out of the state.

He said most of the people abducted were picked inside their various farms, some children that were fetching firewood and local fertilizers in the bush, and some workers in local mining sites.

“The bandits were moving from Sububu Forest to Birnin-Gwari side. So, they see people in the bush fetching firewood, they picked them, some children that are picking local fertilizers, some that are doing mining work, they gathered all of them and moved them to Birnin-Gwari side to Niger State,” he said.

“They did not shoot or kill anybody, they just gathered people and not only children but anybody also they see along their way.”

The spokesperson of the Zamfara State Police Command, CSP Mohammed Shehu, did not respond to several calls or text messages sent to him

The Zamfara State Commissioner for Security, a retired Deputy Inspector General of Police, Mamman Tsafe, who is also from the local government area, did not respond to phone calls put across to him.

(Channels TV)

A bill to prevent Nigeria-trained medical or dental practitioners from being granted full licences until they have worked for a minimum of five years in the country passed second reading at the House of Representatives on Thursday.

This is aimed at addressing the increasing number of medical doctors leaving Nigeria for greener pastures, and making quality health services available to Nigeria.

Sponsored by Ganiyu Abiodun Johnson, it is titled ‘the Bill for an Act to Amend the Medical and Dental Practitioners Act 2004’.

Johnson said it was only fair for medical practitioners, who enjoyed taxpayer’s subsidies on their training, to “give back to the society” by working for a minimum number of years in Nigeria before exporting their skills abroad.

Many lawmakers supported the bill though a number of them called for flexibility and options in the envisaged law.

Uzoma Nkem-Abonta said tying a doctor down for five years in Nigeria before seeking employment outside is akin to enslavement.

However, a majority voice vote passed the bill for second reading at the plenary presided by Speaker Femi Gbajabiamila

(Daily Trust)