Month: April 2024

NDLEA Halts Drug Shipment To Qatar, Refuses N5m Bribe Offer

NDLEA Intercepts Qatar-bound Drugs, Officers Reject N5m Bribe.

The operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have intercepted a drug trafficking attempt at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja, Lagos State. Chidinma Chinenye-Agbazue, a 35-year-old lady, was apprehended while attempting to export 20 parcels of Cannabis Sativa weighing 10.70kg to Doha, Qatar. The illicit drugs were cleverly concealed within African salad, known as Abacha, and dried vegetables.

Read Also : Emmanuel Chigozie Beat His Pregnant Wife To Death In Lagos

The operation, conducted in collaboration with the Department of State Services, saw the diligent rejection of a N5 million bribe from another suspect in Lagos State. Femi Babafemi, the spokesperson for the NDLEA, disclosed these developments in a statement on Sunday, outlining several arrests and seizures made by the agency in the past week.

Chidinma Chinenye-Agbazue, who was detained after her attempted drug trafficking, confessed to being based in Qatar but returning to Nigeria temporarily for Christmas. She claimed that the consignment was handed over to her for trafficking to Qatar while she stayed at Club Dice Hotel in Lagos.

Read Also : Peter Obi Joins Inmates For Easter: We Are All Prisoners

In addition to Chidinma’s arrest, NDLEA operatives arrested two suspects, Monday Okeke and Chigozie Emeka, in Oniwaya, Yaba, and Agege areas of Lagos, seizing 842,560 pills of opioids, including tramadol, 15 liters of codeine syrup, and 596 grams of Molly. Despite attempts by Okeke to bribe the NDLEA officers with N5 million, the bribe was rejected, and the money was documented as evidence for prosecution.

In another operation, three suspects in Bayelsa attempted to smuggle opioids, including codeine, molly, tramadol, and diazepam, weighing a total of 73.425kg. The drugs were intercepted by NDLEA operatives at Swali jetty, Yenagoa, and at Amasoma. Similarly, arrests were made in Ogun, Taraba, Abia, Ondo, Edo, and Kano states, with significant quantities of illicit drugs seized.

The relentless efforts of the NDLEA underscore the agency’s commitment to combating drug trafficking and abuse, safeguarding public health and safety, and upholding the rule of law.

Stay informed with Ejes Gist News – Your Source for Credible News in Nigeria Now.

April 1, 2024
Emmanuel Chigozie Beat His Pregnant Wife To Death In Lagos

Tragic Incident in Lagos: Resident Allegedly Beats Pregnant Wife to Death.

A harrowing incident has rocked the Okota area of Lagos State, where a resident identified as Emmanuel Chigozie, a Master of Ceremony (MC), is accused of fatally assaulting his pregnant wife. The tragic event unfolded when Chigozie allegedly subjected his wife, identified as Itunu, to a brutal beating, resulting in her untimely demise.

Emmanuel Chigozie and His wife Married for 4 years.

According to reports, the couple had been married for four years, during which Chigozie purportedly engaged in repeated acts of infidelity and domestic abuse towards his wife, especially after the birth of their first child. Itunu, who was pregnant at the time of the incident, had allegedly endured years of physical abuse at the hands of her husband.

Mother Confesses to Killing Daughter to Please New Husband

The situation escalated when Itunu, in her pregnant state, confronted Chigozie about a loan she had provided him, amounting to N2.7 million. In response, Chigozie reportedly assaulted his wife, leading to her sustaining critical injuries. Despite being rushed to the hospital, both Itunu and her unborn child tragically succumbed to their injuries.

Peter Obi Joins Inmates For Easter: We Are All Prisoners

Disturbingly, Itunu had expressed concerns about potential complications during childbirth since December 2021, citing the continuous physical abuse she had endured from her husband.

The shocking incident sheds light on the pervasive issue of domestic violence and underscores the urgent need for increased awareness and intervention to protect vulnerable individuals, particularly women and pregnant women, from such heinous acts.

Breaking: APC Suspends Women Leader

Authorities are currently investigating the matter, and Chigozie is expected to face justice for his alleged involvement in the tragic death of his wife and unborn child.

Stay informed with Ejes Gist News – Your Source for Credible News in Nigeria Now.

April 1, 2024
Mother Confesses to Killing Daughter to Please New Husband

Lady confesses to killing her daughter to satisfy her new husband.

A disturbing revelation has surfaced on social media, as a Twitter user, @SisiYemmie, has shared the harrowing account of a woman who allegedly murdered her own daughter to appease her new husband’s dislike for the child.

READ Also: 10 Environmental Offenders Jailed In Ekiti

According to the report, the mother, who had children from a previous relationship, resorted to poisoning her own daughter in order to satisfy her new partner’s disdain for the girl. It is alleged that the man harbored animosity towards his step-daughter and frequently complained about her presence in their home.

In a shocking turn of events, the woman purportedly confessed the appalling deed to her son, revealing that she took her daughter’s life to alleviate the strain placed on her marriage by her husband’s relentless dissatisfaction with the child.

Peter Obi Joins Inmates For Easter: We Are All Prisoners

“I just heard this guy on the radio say his mom killed his sister because his step-father did not like his sister & was always complaining. So his mom poisoned her. You killed your child for a man??!!!” the Twitter user lamented.

The revelation has sparked widespread outrage and condemnation on social media, with many expressing disbelief and horror at the mother’s actions.

Pay Attention To : Defense Minister Matawalle Donates 50 Bags Of Rice To Wanted Bandits As Ramadan Package? Details Emerge

In a separate development, Choice Christopher, the SUG Vice President of Delta State Polytechnic, recently recounted the ordeal she endured after falling pregnant out of wedlock. Despite facing ridicule, mockery, and suspension from her church, Christopher chose to embrace motherhood and has since raised her child, who now appears to be flourishing.

The contrasting tales serve as poignant reminders of the challenges faced by women, highlighting the resilience and strength exhibited in the face of adversity.

Source: X (Twitter) (@SisiYemmie)

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April 1, 2024
10 Environmental Offenders Jailed In Ekiti

Ten Environmental Offenders Sentenced to Prison for Indiscriminate Refuse Dumping in Ekiti.

A mobile Magistrate Court in Ado Ekiti has handed down a verdict sentencing ten individuals to two months imprisonment for their involvement in indiscriminate dumping of refuse across various locations in the state.

The offenders were apprehended in the act at Ajilosun and NTA road areas, according to the prosecutor, Mrs. Ogunsan Bolaji.

Peter Obi Joins Inmates For Easter: We Are All Prisoners

Magistrate Timothy Abe, presiding over the case, declared the culprits guilty of the offence under Section 7b and Section 12 of subsection 4 of the Ekiti State Environmental Health and Sanitation Law of 2020.

In his ruling, Magistrate Abe sentenced each offender to two months imprisonment with an alternative option of paying a fine of N5000.

Defense Minister Matawalle Donates 50 Bags Of Rice To Wanted Bandits As Ramadan Package? Details Emerge

Alaba Kolade, one of the offenders unable to afford the fine, pleaded for leniency and was instead assigned community service.

Other individuals apprehended by the Environmental Task Force of the Ministry included Adetimi Kemi, Iyabo Ojo, Ajayi Victoria, Olaoye Omolara, and Sunday Risikat, as well as Ilori Wuraola, Olayemi Aarinola, Suleiman Hamed, and Tadeolu Rotimi.

Commenting on the incident, the Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Barrister Mrs. Iyabo Fakunle-Okieimen, expressed displeasure at the offenders’ actions and cautioned against violating environmental laws.

Fakunle-Okieimen reiterated the state government’s commitment to ensuring a healthy and conducive environment to prevent the outbreak of epidemics. She emphasized the continuous enforcement of environmental laws by the Task Force and warned of prosecution for any violations.

Residents of the state were advised to comply with environmental laws and uphold cleanliness in their surroundings to safeguard against diseases.

Stay informed with Ejes Gist News – Your Source for Credible News in Nigeria Now.

April 1, 2024
Peter Obi Joins Inmates For Easter: We Are All Prisoners

Peter Obi Encourages Prisoners During Easter Mass, Stresses Hope and Redemption.

Peter Obi, the Labour Party Presidential Candidate in the 2023 general election, has delivered a message of hope and redemption to prisoners, urging them not to view themselves as isolated or devoid of hope.

Speaking during the Easter mass at the Correctional Center in Onitsha, Anambra State, Obi emphasized that in Nigeria, everyone faces metaphorical imprisonment, yearning for divine intervention for liberation and salvation.

Mother Confesses to Killing Daughter to Please New Husband

Addressing the inmates, Obi drew parallels from the day’s scripture readings, particularly focusing on the transformation of Mary Magdalene, who, despite her past, became the first witness to the resurrected Christ.

He highlighted her journey from a life of sin to redemption, emphasizing that being incarcerated does not signify the end of life.

Defense Minister Matawalle Donates 50 Bags Of Rice To Wanted Bandits As Ramadan Package? Details Emerge

Instead, he encouraged the prisoners to see their time in prison as an opportunity for correction and spiritual renewal, enabling them to experience salvation even before those considered “free.”

The Easter mass, presided over by the Archbishop of Onitsha Catholic Archdiocese, His Grace Valerie Okeke, saw participation from approximately 12 other priests. In his homily, Archbishop Okeke echoed Obi’s sentiments, emphasizing the transformative power of faith and redemption. He cited Mary Magdalene’s remarkable transformation as a testament to the potential for greatness and renewal, even for those within the confines of the Correctional Center.

The celebration witnessed joyous dancing and expressions of gratitude from the inmates, who showcased their cultural diversity while chanting praises for Obi, whom they hailed as a friend and father figure. Notably, Obi has maintained a tradition of celebrating Easter with prisoners since his tenure as Governor of Anambra State from 2006 to 2014.

Ejes Gist News understands that the Easter gathering served as a poignant reminder of the significance of hope, faith, and the potential for redemption, transcending the confines of physical captivity.

Stay informed with Ejes Gist News – Your Source for Credible News in Nigeria Now.

April 1, 2024
Breaking: APC Suspends Women Leader

APC Suspends Women Leader for Criticizing Governor Sani Over Inherited Debt Comment.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kaduna State has suspended its Women Leader, Hajiya Maryam Suleiman (Mai Rusau), for alleged gross misconduct following her criticism of Governor Uba Sani over his remarks on the state’s inherited debt.

The suspension, dated March 31, 2024, was communicated through a letter signed by the APC chairman and secretary of Badarawa/Malali ward, Ali Maishago and Zakkah Bassahuwa, respectively.

According to the letter, Suleiman was accused of defaming the character of Governor Uba Sani through a viral video clip released on March 30 via various social media platforms, including Facebook.

In the video, Suleiman, purportedly an ally of former Governor Nasir El-Rufai, criticized Governor Sani for his remarks regarding the state’s financial situation inherited from his predecessor.

APC Suspends Women Leader, Hajiya Maryam Suleiman (Mai Rusau)

Governor Sani had lamented the substantial debt burden left behind by the previous administration, amounting to $587 million, N85 billion, and 115 contract liabilities. He emphasized the challenges of managing the state’s finances, particularly in meeting salary obligations due to limited funds.

The suspension letter cited Suleiman’s alleged violation of the APC constitution, particularly Article 21.2 (v), which prohibits actions detrimental to the party’s interests.

The gross misconducts listed in the letter include the defamation of Governor Uba Sani’s character and the unauthorized dissemination of party disputes that tarnished the governor’s reputation.

Consequently, the APC Badarawa/Malali Ward Executive Committee unanimously agreed to suspend Hajiya Maryam Suleiman (Mai Rusau) from the party pending further investigation into the matter.

The suspension underscores the internal discord within the Kaduna APC and highlights the tensions surrounding political allegiances and governance issues in the state.

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April 1, 2024
Defense Minister Matawalle Donates 50 Bags Of Rice To Wanted Bandits As Ramadan Package? Details Emerge

Amidst swirling controversy, Defence Minister Bello Mohammed Matawalle has refuted claims of distributing 50 bags of rice to selected bandits in Zamfara state. The allegations, initially circulated by a news blog, were swiftly dismissed by the minister and labeled as a ploy by the opposition to tarnish his reputation.

FG Agreed To N155,000 Minimum Wage With Labour Unions In Nigeria? Here’s What We Know Now

According to reports, the alleged distribution of rice was purportedly orchestrated through Honourable Musa Bawa Yankuzo, an accusation vehemently denied by Yankuzo himself. Contrary to the claims, Yankuzo was reported to have been out of the country for Umrah, casting doubt on the credibility of the allegations.

Similarly, Abdullahi Headmaster, accused of storing the rice, has denied any involvement and hinted at taking legal action against the news blog responsible for spreading the false information.

Anxiety Mounts As Banks Write To CBN Ahead Of Recapitalization Countdown

In response to the allegations, Zamfara Newsletter, a local news platform, has lambasted the accusations as a desperate attempt by the opposition, particularly the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), to discredit Minister Matawalle. The platform alleged that the story was amplified by one Abdul Balarabe, a media aide to Zamfara state governor Dauda Lawal.

Tinubu’s Govt Has Been Complete Catastrophe – Ex-Presidential Candidate

Meanwhile, the Arewa Youth for Peace and Security has criticized Governor Lawal for allegedly neglecting security issues in the state, particularly in light of the recent reports linking Matawalle to the provision of food supplies to wanted bandits.

As the controversy continues to unfold, the Defence Minister remains steadfast in his denial of the allegations, emphasizing his commitment to upholding law and order in Zamfara state.

April 1, 2024
I Get Attacked By Evil Forces If I Don’t Sleep With Gospel Music,” Saweetie Reveals Scary Details

American R&B Star Saweetie Reveals Battle with Spiritual Attacks.

Saweetie, the renowned American R&B sensation, has opened up about her ongoing struggle with spiritual attacks, shedding light on her personal experiences with paranormal phenomena and sleep paralysis.

In a candid interview with Big Boy TV, the 30-year-old artist shared intimate details of her spiritual journey, revealing how her upbringing in an apartment plagued by paranormal activities shaped her relationship with the spiritual realm.

Read Also :FG Agreed To N155,000 Minimum Wage With Labour Unions In Nigeria? Here’s What We Know Now

Saweetie disclosed that she feels vulnerable to “evil forces” if she sleeps without playing Gospel music, a practice she adopted to ward off negative energies. She described the unsettling sensation of sleep paralysis, wherein she feels immobilized and oppressed by unseen entities, a phenomenon that persists to this day.

Reflecting on her spiritual journey, Saweetie acknowledged the role of meditation in strengthening her spiritual resilience. She expressed gratitude for the newfound spiritual strength gained through her meditation practice, which has helped her navigate the challenges posed by spiritual attacks.

Despite the adversity she faces, Saweetie remains resilient and determined to overcome spiritual obstacles, emphasizing the importance of self-care and spiritual grounding in maintaining her well-being.

Saweetie’s candid revelations offer insight into the complexities of navigating spiritual challenges in the public eye, serving as a reminder of the importance of self-awareness and spiritual fortitude in confronting adversity.

As Saweetie continues to navigate her spiritual journey, her openness and vulnerability serve as a source of inspiration for fans grappling with similar experiences, fostering a sense of solidarity and understanding within the community.

Stay informed with Ejes Gist News – Your Source for Credible News in Nigeria Now.

April 1, 2024
FG Agreed To N155,000 Minimum Wage With Labour Unions In Nigeria? Here’s What We Know Now

An online claim by an individual identified as A. Ayofe, suggesting that the Federal Government of Nigeria has settled on N155,000 as the new national minimum wage, has been debunked upon thorough fact-checking.

I Get Attacked By Evil Forces If I Don’t Sleep With Gospel Music,” Saweetie Reveals Scary Details

Despite the purported agreement with the Nigeria Labour Union (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC), no official confirmation has been provided by the involved parties or the 37-man Tripartite Committee responsible for such negotiations.

Ayofe’s post, which circulated on social media platforms, conveyed gratitude from the NLC and TUC leaders towards negotiation members during a press conference, supposedly announcing the agreement on the new minimum wage.

FG Agreed To N155,000 Minimum Wage With Labour Unions In Nigeria? Here’s What We Know Now

However, investigations by Dubawa and Legit.ng have revealed the fallacy behind Ayofe’s claim. No consensus has been reached among the Tripartite Committee regarding the proposed increase in the minimum wage. Furthermore, there has been no official statement released by any of the negotiating parties or credible news outlets confirming such an agreement.

A recent report by The Punch hinted at a possible announcement regarding the new minimum wage by President Bola Tinubu on May 1. Nevertheless, the head of information at NLC, Mr. Benson Upah, denied knowledge of any agreement, echoing the sentiment expressed by the deputy president of TUC, Dr. Tommy Okon, who labeled the claim as “mischievous” and asserted that negotiations with the government have not commenced.

The current minimum wage in Nigeria stands at N30,000, but mounting inflation has propelled Labour Unions to advocate for an increase to alleviate the financial strain on workers. To address this concern, President Bola Tinubu established a Tripartite Committee on the National Minimum Wage in January 2024, chaired by Vice-President Kashim Shettima. This committee is tasked with conducting nationwide public hearings and engaging stakeholders from diverse sectors to formulate a new minimum wage aligned with prevailing economic conditions.

Expected to conclude its proceedings by the end of March, the committee will then present its recommendations to the federal government. Subsequently, a bill will be forwarded to the National Assembly for approval of the proposed minimum wage adjustment.

In a related development, former federal lawmaker Shehu Sani questioned the feasibility of implementing a proposed N794,000 minimum wage in Nigeria. Despite the current N30,000 minimum wage, many states are grappling with salary payments, prompting skepticism regarding the viability of the NLC’s proposed wage increase.

As discussions on the minimum wage continue, clarity and transparency remain essential to ensure fair outcomes for all stakeholders involved.

Stay informed with Ejes Gist News – Your Source for Credible News in Nigeria Now.

April 1, 2024
Anxiety Mounts As Banks Write To CBN Ahead Of Recapitalization Countdown

Banks Seek Clarity from CBN on Retained Earnings Amid Commencement of Recapitalization Countdown.

Commercial banks in Nigeria are urging the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to issue clear directives regarding the treatment of retained earnings in the upcoming recapitalization of banks, according to sources obtained by The Nation.

As the countdown to the two-year recapitalization timeline begins, banks are increasingly anxious for guidance from the CBN on this crucial aspect.

The recapitalization process is slated to kick off from April 1, 2024, and run through March 31, 2026.

Tinubu’s Govt Has Been Complete Catastrophe – Ex-Presidential Candidate

Retained earnings signify the profits retained by a company after settling all expenses, taxes, and dividends to shareholders. These earnings represent a portion of a company’s equity that can be utilized for various purposes such as investment in new equipment, research, and marketing.

Many banks advocating for clarity on retained earnings believe that explicit directives from the CBN will facilitate their capital-raising strategies.

Adding their perspectives to the discourse, analysts at Afrinvest West Africa Limited highlighted the need for further clarification on the treatment of retained earnings by the CBN as the implementation week approaches.

I Can’t Pay Salary, El-Rufai Left $587 Million, N85 Billion In Debts, APC Governor Cries Out

In a communication addressed to investors, the analysts stated: “Assuming the re-engineering of retained earnings to bolster eligible capital levels, our estimation indicates that approximately N901.8 billion combined would be needed by certain banks to meet the new benchmarks.”

The recent announcement by the CBN to revise upward the minimum capital requirements for banks in response to external and domestic economic challenges, including exchange rate fluctuations and inflation, underscores the urgency for banks to strategize their capitalization efforts.

The CBN specified minimum capital requirements of N500 billion, N200 billion, and N50 billion for Commercial Banks with International, National, and Regional licenses, respectively. Similarly, Merchant Banks and Non-interest Banks are mandated to meet specified capitalization thresholds.

It was clarified that the minimum capital for existing banks should consist solely of paid-up capital and share premium, while proposed banks should adhere to new standards for paid-up capital.

While the recapitalization initiative aims to fortify banks’ capacity to support credit creation and stimulate economic growth, potential challenges such as shareholder returns dilution, increased risk exposure, and industry consolidation dynamics need to be addressed.

Olusegun Badaru, Managing Director of Dexterpro Limited, highlighted the adverse effects of naira devaluation on banks’ asset values, emphasizing the importance of recapitalization in bolstering banks’ resilience and regulatory compliance.

Recapitalization of banks in Nigeria

Recapitalization serves to enhance banks’ financial strength, regulatory compliance, and overall stability, thereby fostering confidence among stakeholders and safeguarding the integrity of the banking system.

Stay informed with Ejes Gist News – Your Source for Credible News in Nigeria Now.

April 1, 2024
Tinubu’s Govt Has Been Complete Catastrophe – Ex-Presidential Candidate

Martin Onovo Criticizes President Bola Tinubu’s Administration as “Complete Catastrophe.

Martin Onovo, the former presidential candidate of the National Conscience Party (NCP) in the 2015 elections, has lambasted the administration of President Bola Tinubu, describing it as a “complete catastrophe.” Onovo, who currently serves as the head of Policy Positions in the Movement for Fundamental Change, voiced his concerns during an interview with the Daily Sun newspaper.

I Can’t Pay Salary, El-Rufai Left $587 Million, N85 Billion In Debts, APC Governor Cries Out

In his scathing assessment, Onovo emphasized the lack of legitimacy surrounding Tinubu’s presidency, asserting that a true leader for Nigeria can only emerge through free and fair elections, not through the declaration of fraudulent results. He criticized what he deemed as the “ad hoc regime” of Tinubu, highlighting its catastrophic impact on various aspects of Nigerian society.

According to Onovo, under Tinubu’s leadership, public morality has been eroded, with institutions such as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the judiciary being compromised by the ruling party. He lamented the deterioration of the national economy, citing soaring poverty rates and heightened insecurity as alarming consequences of Tinubu’s governance.

Onovo pointed out that Tinubu’s regime contradicts fundamental principles essential for national development, such as honesty, merit, and pragmatism. He warned of the dire consequences of allowing the current administration to continue unchecked, asserting that it could push Nigeria from its current “failed state” status to “complete collapse.”

In conclusion, Onovo’s remarks underscore the deep-seated concerns and criticisms surrounding President Bola Tinubu’s administration, as Nigeria grapples with pressing socio-economic and security challenges.

Stay informed with Ejes Gist News – Your Source for Credible News in Nigeria Now.

April 1, 2024
I Can’t Pay Salary, El-Rufai Left $587 Million, N85 Billion In Debts, APC Governor Cries Out

Kaduna Governor Uba Sani Reveals Debt Inheritance, Financial Challenges.

Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State has disclosed the daunting financial situation inherited from his predecessor, Nasir El-Rufai, lamenting the burden of debts totaling $587 million and N85 billion as of May 29, 2023.

Addressing a Town Hall Meeting at the late Umaru Musa Yar’Adua Hall in Kaduna, Governor Sani expressed concern over the insufficient funds available to cover the state’s monthly salary obligations.

Despite grappling with the staggering debt burden, Governor Sani affirmed that his administration had refrained from borrowing money over the past nine months. However, he highlighted the challenges posed by servicing the existing debts, especially amidst fluctuating exchange rates, which result in substantial repayment amounts.

Out of the N10 billion received as Federal Allocation for the state in March, Governor Sani revealed that a significant portion, amounting to N7 billion, was allocated to debt servicing. This left the state with a meager N3 billion, which falls short of the N5.2 billion required for monthly salary payments.

Governor Sani reassured the citizens of Kaduna of his administration’s unwavering commitment to advancing the state’s prosperity and sustainable development. He outlined key priority areas, including safety and security, housing, education, healthcare, and support for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

Highlighting achievements in various sectors, Governor Sani emphasized progress in security measures through the recruitment of 7,000 additional personnel for the state Vigilance Service and procurement of operational vehicles and motorcycles. On education, efforts are underway to address skills deficits and reduce the number of out-of-school children through collaborations with international partners.

Despite the formidable challenges, Governor Sani underscored the collective efforts required to propel Kaduna State towards progress and transformation into a premier business hub. He emphasized the administration’s commitment to rebuilding trust, fostering peace, and promoting harmonious coexistence among residents.

In conclusion, Governor Uba Sani reiterated his administration’s dedication to inclusive development and the improvement of livelihoods for all residents of Kaduna State.

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April 1, 2024