Tag: latest naija gists today

  • Akpabio, Abbas In Fresh Trouble As SERAP Drags Them To Court Over Jumbo Allowances

    Akpabio, Abbas In Fresh Trouble As SERAP Drags Them To Court Over Jumbo Allowances

    SERAP Sues Senate President Akpabio, Speaker Abbas Over Lawmakers’ Allowances.

     

    The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has taken legal action against Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, accusing them of refusing to halt the unlawful practice of setting lawmakers’ allowances and running costs.

     

    SERAP’s Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, disclosed in a statement on Sunday that the case was filed last Friday at the Federal High Court in Abuja under suit number FHC/ABJ/CS/1289/2024.

     

    Pay Attention To: Sule Lamido Offers Flood Prevention Plan for Jigawa for free

     

    The organization is seeking an order of mandamus to compel Akpabio and Abbas to reveal the exact amount of monthly running costs paid to lawmakers and to provide details of how these funds are spent.

     

    SERAP argues that the National Assembly’s practice of fixing its own salaries, allowances, and running costs violates the Nigerian Constitution. Specifically, they cite paragraph N, section 32(d) of the Third Schedule, which they say makes it illegal for the National Assembly to set its own financial compensation.

     

    This lawsuit follows allegations made by former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo, who claimed that lawmakers were setting their salaries and allowances independently, contrary to the guidelines set by the Revenue Mobilisation Fiscal Allocation Commission (RMAFC).

     

    Kano Airport Cleaner Who Returned $10,000 Receives Promotion, Cash Reward

    While it has been clarified that the 109 senators in Nigeria earn a monthly salary of N1,063,860, there has been no transparency regarding the allowances they receive.

     

    Kano South Senator, Abdurrahman Kawu Sumaila, recently revealed that senators receive N21 million monthly as running costs. This disclosure has led to further public scrutiny, with former Senator Shehu Sani stating that Sumaila’s revelation corroborates his earlier claims regarding the extravagant allowances enjoyed by lawmakers.

  • They Love Tinubu At Night, But During The Day, They Say Different Things – Wike Slams PDP Governors

    They Love Tinubu At Night, But During The Day, They Say Different Things – Wike Slams PDP Governors

    Wike Accuses PDP Governors of Double-Dealing with President Tinubu.

     

    Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has accused some governors of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) of duplicity in their dealings with President Bola Tinubu. Speaking at the PDP’s Secretariat in Port Harcourt during the party’s state congress on Saturday, Wike claimed these governors exhibit a facade of support for the president by night but criticize him during the day.

    Ember Months: ‘What Nigerians Should Do Before Praying Against Accidents’ – Fr Kelvin

     

    Wike, the former governor of Rivers State, criticized the PDP for what he described as a lack of commitment to justice, fairness, and equity in the 2023 presidential election. He expressed no regrets over his decision to oppose the PDP, stating, “I didn’t hide it in 2023 when I said I would not support you for the presidential election. I said I won’t support PDP because it refused to allow equity, fairness, and justice.”

     

    Wike contrasted his own straightforward approach during former President Muhammadu Buhari’s tenure with the behavior he attributes to current PDP governors, emphasizing a need for integrity and consistency in political conduct.

     

    Transfer: He’s In Pains – Ighalo Blasts Nigerians Over Osimhen’s Failed Napoli Exit

    He stated, “When Buhari was there, you never saw me play two sides; I never went to the Villa at night only to come out in the day to shout.”

     

    He further challenged those who criticize his position, questioning their legitimacy and commitment: “An armed robber is an armed robber any day, any time.”

  • Ember Months: ‘What Nigerians Should Do Before Praying Against Accidents’ – Fr Kelvin

    Ember Months: ‘What Nigerians Should Do Before Praying Against Accidents’ – Fr Kelvin

    As the month of September begins on Sunday, ushering in what people popularly called the ’ember months’, a Catholic missionary priest working in Gambia, Fr Kelvin Ugwu, has advised Nigerian to prioritise their safety.

    Ugwu said vehicle owners should make every effort to do the necessary maintenance on their vehicle before praying against accidents and blood-sucking demons.

    The statement is coming at a time many Nigerians still hold the misconception suggesting a heightened risks, including road accidents, during the ’ember months’ (September, October, November, and December) than in other months.

    They attribute the phenomenon to superstitious practices often referred to as ‘juju’ operations.

    Although the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) had severally in the past dispelled the widespread notions linking the ember months with superstitious, many still hold tightly to the belief.

    In a post on his Facebook page on Sunday, listed five things people should do to avoid exposing themselves to danger.

    He said: “While you pray against accidents and blood-sucking demons these “Ember” months, please do us the favour of keeping the following 5 points in mind.

    “Oil: Make every effort to do the necessary maintenance on your vehicle. Change the oil, check your breaks, change your shock absorber if necessary, and check your car coolant.

    “Tyre: Do not compromise on your car tyres; you are putting yourself in danger. The tyres of the car are what support the vehicle’s load, transmit traction and braking forces to the road surface, absorb road shocks, and change and maintain the direction of travel. . . If they are bald, they are bad.

    “Alcohol: If you must drink, don’t drive; if you must drive, don’t drink. Alcohol consumption remains a major cause of road accidents.

    “Seatbelt: Use your seatbelt always. If you think the distance is too short for you to use a seatbelt, then it means the distance is too short for you to drive. Trek instead.

    “Speeding: The road is not an athletic ground where you compete with other drivers on who can run the fastest. There is no medal for the driver who overtook every vehicle on the way. Kill some of those childish instinct making you think the mark of a driver is to speed. Speed kills.”

  • Transfer: He’s In Pains – Ighalo Blasts Nigerians Over Osimhen’s Failed Napoli Exit

     Victor Osimhen

    Odion Ighalo, a former Super Eagles striker, has hit out at Nigerians over their comments on social media, after Victor Osimhen failed to seal a move away from Napoli.

    Osimhen has been frozen out at the Serie A club following the collapse of transfer talks with Chelsea.

    The situation led to mixed reactions from fans on the Internet, with many criticizing the player and his entourage.

    But Ighalo wrote on X on Sunday morning: “No human being is perfect and we have all made mistakes in life.

    “But seeing comments about this young man from his own country people makes me really sad, without even knowing what happened.

    “I spoke to him and I can feel the pain in his voice, the way he’s been treated, this young man play with heart and pains for his country.

    “Hmmm it’s well, he will definitely be back stronger, we learn everyday in life. Happy New Month to y’all.”

    No human being is perfect and we have all made mistakes in life, but seeing comments about this young man from his own country people makes me really sad, without even knowing what happened, I spoke to him and I can feel the pain in his voice, the way he’s been treated, this… pic.twitter.com/P1J3yTpKx8

    — Odion Jude Ighalo (@ighalojude) September 1, 2024

  • EPL: ‘Old Trafford Is Tough’ – Jamie Carragher Predicts Man Utd Vs Liverpool Game

    EPL: ‘Old Trafford Is Tough’ – Jamie Carragher Predicts Man Utd Vs Liverpool Game

    Former England defender, Jamie Carragher, has predicted today’s Premier League tie between Manchester United and Liverpool.

    Man United will host Arne Slot’s side in the Premier League at Old Trafford by 4 pm.

    Erik ten Hag’s side head to the game after losing their last game 2-1 against Brighton, while Liverpool defeated Brentford.

    “For any Liverpool team, Old Trafford is always going to be a tough place to go,” Carragher said while speaking to fellow Sky Sports pundit, Gary Neville.

    “I wouldn’t take a draw, I think they are a better team than Man United and should be going there to win.”

  • EPL: Sancho Names Two Chelsea Legends As His Idols After Leaving Man Utd

    EPL: Sancho Names Two Chelsea Legends As His Idols After Leaving Man Utd

    Jadon Sancho’s loan move from Manchester United to Chelsea was confirmed on Saturday evening.

    The 24-year-old has joined the Blues until the end of the season.

    Speaking after his unveiling, Sancho said he wants to “bring excitement” to Stamford Bridge and emulate his Chelsea idols.

    “My idols growing up were Didier Drogba and Frank Lampard and now I have the opportunity to play for this club like them,” Sancho told Chelsea’s official website.

    “It’s a great feeling.”

    The loan also includes an obligation to buy Sancho for between £20-£25m next summer.

  • Famous American Rapper Fatman Scoop Dies After Collapsing On Stage

    Isaac Freeman, the renowned American rapper and radio personality famously known as Fatman Scoop, has passed away at the age of 53. The tragic incident occurred during a concert on Friday night, where Fatman Scoop suffered a medical emergency while performing on stage.

     

    The rapper, known for his powerful voice and high-energy performances, collapsed at Hamden Town Center Park in Connecticut, leaving fans and crew members in shock.

    Chidimma Adetshina Wins Miss Universe Nigeria 2024

    Viral Video: I’ll Put Fire in Their States – Wike Fires Shot at PDP Governors Supporting Fubara

     

    A viral video circulating on social media captures the distressing moment when Fatman Scoop, visibly struggling, collapsed shortly after taking the stage. Medics quickly rushed to his aid, but despite their efforts, he was later pronounced dead at the hospital.

    American Rapper Fatman Scoop Dies at 53 After On-Stage Collapse

    Fatman Scoop

     

     

    Announcing his death on Saturday, his tour manager expressed deep sorrow, stating that he was “lost for words” over the sudden loss of the iconic rapper. The music world has been left in mourning, as tributes pour in for the artist who made an indelible mark on the hip-hop scene with hits like “Be Faithful.

     

    Scoop was well-known for his energetic performances and distinctive voice, making a significant impact in the music industry. Fatman Scoop’s untimely death marks a somber end to a celebrated career, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to influence the rap and hip-hop community..

  • Gov Ododo Warns Against Diversion Of Fertilisers Meant For Genuine Farmers In Kogi

    Gov Ododo Warns Against Diversion Of Fertilisers Meant For Genuine Farmers In Kogi

    The Kogi State governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has flagged off the distribution of over 20 trucks of fertilizer to farmers in the 21 local government areas in the state with a stern warning against diversion, inequitable distribution and exclusion of genuine farmers.

    According to a statement by the Special Adviser on Media to the Governor, Ismaila Isah, the governor who performed the flag off at a ceremony in Lokoja reiterated his commitment to develop the agricultural sector in the state.

    While describing the occasion as a fulfilling moment for him as a leader who is committed to serving the state in the best interest of the people, Governor Ododo vowed to deal decisively with anyone involved in any act of sabotage in the distribution of the fertilizer across the state.

    “Let me warn everyone here today that this must not be politicized. It must go to the real farmers only.

    I will be intentional in tracking these bags of fertilizer to ensure they are in the right places, in the right quantity, at the right time and in the hands of our dear farmers. The era of politicians hijacking fertilizers is over, ” he said.

    The governor described investment in agriculture as a critical step to help in the rebound of the country’s economy.

    He noted that the rich and expansive land mass, water bodies and the political will to invest massively in the agricultural sector will enhance the state’s ability to guarantee food security and sufficiency.

    Governor Ododo who announced allocation of 50 per cent of the current batch of the state’s supply of fertilizer to farmers in Ibaji and Bassa local government areas where there are more clusters of farmers in the Eastern senatorial district of the state, promised to extend more patronage to all genuine farmers in the state.

    He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his tireless efforts to reverse the economic challenges faced by the country by increasing incentives for agricultural production in all states of the federation.

    While appreciating the continued support for the administration by farmers in Kogi state, he assured the farming communities in the state that his administration will sustain the commitment to ensure food security in the state.

    In his remarks, the state Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Timothy Ojomah, expressed appreciation to Governor Ododo for his numerous interventions that have positioned Kogi State as a major hub for agricultural production in Nigeria.

    Earlier in his welcome address, the Managing Director of Kogi State Agricultural Development Project, George Ogirima noted that the decision of the federal government to provide trucks of fertilizer for distribution to farmers in the state is in line with the vision of the Kogi State government under Governor Ododo to revamp the agricultural sector in the state.

    The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security provided 25 trucks of fertilizer for distribution to farmers in Kogi State as part of efforts to increase food production in this year’s wet season farming.

  • Sule Lamido: Buhari Didn’t Want Tinubu As President, Never Trusted Osinbajo

    Sule Lamido: Buhari Didn’t Want Tinubu As President, Never Trusted Osinbajo

    Sule Lamido Claims Buhari Never Wanted Tinubu to Succeed Him.

     

     

    Sule Lamido, the former Governor of Jigawa State, has stirred political discourse by asserting that former President Muhammadu Buhari did not want Bola Tinubu to succeed him as Nigeria’s president. In an interview with *Tribune*, Lamido claimed that Buhari had preferred ex-Senate President Ahmed Lawan over Tinubu, as well as over his own Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo.

    Sule Lamido
    Sule Lamido, former Governor of Jigawa State

     

     

     

    Read Also: Viral Video: I’ll Put Fire in Their States – Wike Fires Shot at PDP Governors Supporting Fubara

     

    According to Lamido, Buhari’s support for Lawan was driven by his distrust of both Tinubu and Osinbajo. “He didn’t even trust his own vice president, Professor Osinbajo; he wanted Ahmed Lawan,” Lamido said. He criticized Buhari’s logic of wanting another Northerner to succeed him after eight years in office, calling it “absurd” given Nigeria’s regional dynamics.

     

    Lamido emphasized that Tinubu’s emergence as President was a result of his own determination, suggesting that Tinubu owes his victory to no one, not even Buhari. “Tinubu knows that his victory wasn’t from Buhari, therefore, he owes him nothing,” Lamido remarked.

     

    Breaking: Terrorists Block Major Highway in Zamfara, Abduct Passengers from Two Buses

     

    The former governor’s comments also revisit tensions from the 2015 presidential election when there were rumors that Buhari opposed Tinubu’s bid for the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidacy. This sentiment resurfaced during the 2023 elections, with some alleging that certain actions, like the naira redesign and fuel scarcity, were intended to undermine Tinubu’s campaign. However, Tinubu famously declared “Emi Lokan,” meaning “It’s my turn,” affirming his resolve to pursue the presidency.

     

    Lamido’s statements add another layer to the ongoing political narrative surrounding Tinubu’s rise to power and the internal dynamics of the APC.

  • Nigerian Military Speaks On Overthrowing Tinubu’s Govt

    The Nigerian military has replied those calling on it to overthrow the government of President Bola Tinubu.

    Speaking on behalf of the military, Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen Taoreed Lagbaja on Tuesday said the military will not heed such calls.

    Speaking in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State at the opening ceremony of the COAS Combined 2nd and 3rd Quarters Conference, Lagbaja said the call for military takeover was majorly coming from young Nigerians who never experienced the era of Nigeria’s extensive military rule.

    He stressed that the Nigerian Army was not ready to lose the “new prestige” it has painstakingly built in the past 25 years by allowing safe democratic rule.

    “The Nigerian Army will not allow itself to be used to undemocratically sail some interests to power. As the Service that received the most image bashing as a fallout of previous military interventions in Nigeria, the Nigerian Army is not poised to losing the new prestige it has painstakingly built in the past 25 years,

    secure, and united,” he said.

    Lagbaja noted that the Nigerian Army and its sister services have continued to receive support from the government at both the national and sub-national levels as shown in the recent purchase of 2 BELL UH-1 Huey Helicopters equipped with advanced sensors and enablers to conduct a range of missions, including reconnaissance, surveillance, logistics and medical evacuation, among other functions.

    He added that welfare of widows and family members of fallen heroes remains on course.

    On the fallout of the recent nationwide hunger protest, the Army Chief stated that the situation was an eye opener that as an Armed Force, they should not only focus on physical security and defense of the nation but that food and social security issues can snowball into physical security challenges.

    He said though the situation that led to the protest seemed to have settled, the Nigerian Army understands that the issue of food security was among the factors that led to the protest.

    The COAS pledged the Army’s resolve to wade in through the review of its agricultural policy.

    He further said the Nigerian Army currently provide security cover for farmers in critical farming communities in the North East,North West and North Central zones so as to prevent the devastating consequences of a halt in food production in those regions on the entire country’s food supply chain.

    “The Nigerian Army will, in the coming days, review its agricultural policy to better position the Nigerian Army Farms and Ranches Limited to significantly boost crop production so that the Army can release grains into the market at highly subsidized rate in support of government efforts.

    “Furthermore, the Army Headquarters is reviewing some proposals for partnerships with Ministries, Departments and Agencies of government and reputable private organizations on how best to collaborate to resolve food crisis in the country,” he added.

    Lagbaja revealed that the Nigerian Army has acquired other combat enablers such as Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected Vehicles,rifles, and ammunition to strengthen operations and security across the country.

    Declaring the event open, the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno expressed happiness that the conference was held in Akwa Ibom and commended the COAS for the “purposeful direction he has given to Nigerian Army towards meeting its constitutional responsibility”.

    Eno equally assured of the state government’s readiness to lend all necessary support to enable the establishment of the proposed Army base in the state as well as other logistics.

  • Imo Govt Moves Against Developers Operating Without Approval

    Imo Govt Moves Against Developers Operating Without Approval

    The Imo State Government has activated a mechanism to go after developers acquiring lands and erecting structures without approval.

    The move became necessary following a series of reports from members of the public about individuals and corporate bodies encroaching on people’s land using the name of the state government.

    In response to the development, the Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the Imo State Geographic Information Service, IGIS, Chukwunyere Amaechi, has issued a press release informing members of the public to demand copies of the approved private layout plan issued to developers by the relevant authorities or alert the body through its customer service number, 0809816381.

    The IGIS DG stated: “It has come to our attention that several organisations and companies are currently partitioning, consolidating and selling plots of land located within estates in the above-stated areas.

    “We wish to inform developers, investors in the built environment, and the general public that we have not issued any private layout planning approval to any organisation or registered any estate development scheme in line with our extant laws in the following areas: Ngor Okpala/Airport Road axis; Obinze/Army Barracks/Umuokanne/Oforola axis; Mgbirichi/Umuapu axis.”

    Amaechi pointed out that there is a guideline for the issuance of private layouts in the state, maintaining that any estate development scheme that fails to comply with the requirement as dictated by law is acting improperly and putting investors and the general public at risk.

    Amaechi further stated that anyone who buys or transacts land without verification from the body is doing so at his or her own risk.

    She also reaffirmed that the agency is committed to ensuring that due process is adhered to at all times and that developers and businesses involved in property development operate with due regard to state planning laws and applicable neighbourhood or unitary development plans.

    The IGIS DG further informed that planning officers will be visiting the locations to enforce compliance.

  • Former APC National Auditor, Moghalu Dumps Party

    George Moghalu, a  former National Auditor of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has resigned from the party.

    Moghalu while giving reason for resigning his membership from the party on Tuesday, cited personal reasons.

    The resignation put to rest the rumour of his move to quit the party since last year.

    Moghalu, who previously served as the Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), addressed his resignation in a formal letter.

    The letter was directed to the APC chairman of Uruagu Ward 1 in Nnewi, Nnewi North local government area, Anambra State, and was also sent to the local government and state chairmen of the party.

    The resignation letter, titled “Resignation of Membership of the APC,” officially marks the end of Moghalu’s association with the ruling party.

    The letter reads, “I bring you good wishes of my dear family and to formally notify you of my decision to resign my membership of the APC with effect from today, August 26, 2024.

    “It is my utmost desire and expectation that all of us will continue to maintain a cordial relationship that we have built together over the years.

    “I wish you and all the members of the party the very best. Please, accept as always the assurance of my best regards.”

  • Police Raid Criminal Hideout, Nab Six Cultists In Akwa Ibom

    Police Raid Criminal Hideout, Nab Six Cultists In Akwa Ibom

    Akwa Ibom State Police command said it raided a criminal hideout in Afaha Offiong community, Nsit Ibom Local Government Area and arrested six suspected cultists.

    In a statement made available by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Timfon John in Uyo, she said the operatives acted on the directives of the Commissioner of Police, CP Waheed Ayilara following intelligence about the nefarious activities in the area.

    She enumerated the names of the suspects to include: Kufre Godwin Okon, Uko Monday Edet, Cyril Micheal, Gabriel Effiong, Joseph Effiong Okon, Udofia Emmanuel Udofia.

    The PPRO, who also stated that suspects were allegedly involved in drug dealing, said two bags of substances suspected to be Indian hemp, substances suspected to be cocaine and some concoctions were recovered.

    She stated that efforts were ongoing to apprehend the other fleeing suspects, adding that the ones arrested would be charged to court after investigations.

    “Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police, Akwa Ibom State Command, CP Waheed Ayilara has reassured Akwa Ibomites of the command’s unwavering commitment to rid the state of criminal elements.

    “He urged them to always report any suspicious movements or suspicious persons to the nearest police Station as this will help the Police cultivate and act on the information towards keeping the State safe and secured,” she said.

  • Video Of DSS Officials Jubilating Over Removal Of Yusuf Magaji Bichi As Director-General Of The Security Agency

    In a video that has circulated widely, DSS officials were seen rejoicing in response to the news.

    Celebration

    A video of officials of the Department of State Services (DSS) celebrating the removal of Yusuf Magaji Bichi as the Director-General of the security agency has surfaced online.

    Presidency Knocks Ex-APC Chieftain, Lukman Over Bad Governance Comment

    In a video that has circulated widely, DSS officials were seen rejoicing in response to the news.

    President Bola Tinubu officially named Mr Adeola Oluwatosin Ajayi as the new Director-General of the DSS. Ajayi, who previously held the position of Assistant Director-General, has had an extensive career within the agency.

    His experience includes serving as State Director in several key states, including Bauchi, Enugu, Bayelsa, Rivers, and Kogi.

    Watch The Video Below;

    DSS officials rejoice following removal of Yusuf Magaji Bichi as Director-General of the security agency pic.twitter.com/Sg4SppNzdy

    — APRO MEDIA (@Aprotv_ng) August 27, 2024

  • Presidency Knocks Ex-APC Chieftain, Lukman Over Bad Governance Comment

    Presidency Knocks Ex-APC Chieftain, Lukman Over Bad Governance Comment

    The Presidency has blasted former National Vice Chairman, Northwest of the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, Salihu Lukman, over what he (Lukman) described as growing deterioration of governance in the country.

    Lukman said each successive administration had become progressively worse than its predecessor.

    He said while President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration was worse than that of President Goodluck Jonathan, it was saddening that President Bola Tinubu administration was on track to becoming worse than that of Buhari.

    He lamented that in spite of this, there was no structured engagements regarding 2027 among leading opposition leaders such as former Vice President Atiku Abubakar of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP; Mr Peter Obi of Labour Party, LP; and Engr. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso of the New Nigeria Peoples Party, NNPP.

    “It is not enough to complain that President Bola Tinubu is bad without corresponding initiative to ensure that 2027 results in the defeat of APC at all levels. If APC is defeated in 2027, what is the guarantee that the new government to emerge post-Tinubu will not be worse?

    “As Nigerians, we are witnesses to how governments at all levels progressively become worse. With all the confidence many of us had in former President Muhammadu Buhari, arguably his performance failed to meet public expectations, perhaps worse than former President Goodluck Jonathan.

    ”Certainly, President Tinubu is on track to becoming worse than former President Buhari,” Lukman stated.

    In a swift response, however, the presidency said it would not be distracted by comments from some people on President Bola Tinubu’s administration, saying it was focused on governance.

    Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said, “We are focused on governance. The results of our reforms will speak eloquently for us. We have no time for people whose pastime is denigrating the administration.”

  • Former Malaysian Prime Minister Charged With Sedition Over Comment About Royals In The Country

    Muhyiddin Yassin, a former Prime Minister of Malaysia has been charged with sedition following the comments he made regarding the country’s former king, according to his lawyer.

    The 77-year-old politician appeared in court in the northern town of Gua Musang, where he pleaded not guilty to the charge.

    The sedition charge stems from remarks Muhyiddin made during a speech ahead of recent by-elections, in which he questioned the 2022 decision of then-monarch Sultan Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah to appoint his political rival, Anwar Ibrahim, as Malaysia’s prime minister.

    The king’s decision followed a hotly contested election and was instrumental in forming a coalition government led by Anwar.

    Malaysia operates as a constitutional monarchy, where the throne is uniquely rotated every five years among the rulers of nine states with deep-rooted Islamic royal traditions. While the role of the king is largely ceremonial, it holds significant respect in the Muslim-majority nation, and recent years have seen the monarch play a critical role in maintaining political stability.

    Supporters of Muhyiddin, who now leads the opposition, expressed their approval outside the courthouse when they learned of his not-guilty plea, as reported by an AFP journalist on the scene.

    The sedition charge, brought under Malaysia’s colonial-era Sedition Act, carries the potential for a fine and a prison sentence of up to three years for those convicted of undermining the monarchy. The case underscores the sensitive nature of comments related to the royal institution in Malaysia.

    The Gua Musang court has scheduled Muhyiddin’s next hearing for November 4, where further proceedings will take place.

  • Nasarawa Assembly Appoints Six Pioneer Deputy Clerks

    Nasarawa Assembly Appoints Six Pioneer Deputy Clerks

    Nasarawa State House of Assembly has appointed six pioneer Deputy Clerks, also designated as Permanent Secretaries.

    Speaker of the House, Mr. Danladi Jatau, urged the new appointees to prioritize discipline among staff and deliver selfless service, ensuring effective productivity and service delivery across the state’s legislative institution.

    During a thank-you visit by the newly appointed Deputy Clerks, Jatau assured them of improved welfare conditions to foster optimal productivity.

    He stated the importance of being good ambassadors of the House and reaffirmed the Assembly’s commitment to the well-being of its staff.

    The Speaker also expressed gratitude to Governor Abdullahi Sule for his continued support and cooperation, pledging a sustained synergy between the legislative and executive arms of the government.

    Mr. Ibrahim Musa, the Acting Clerk of the House, speaking on behalf of the newly appointed Deputy Clerks, thanked the Speaker for their elevation from Directors to Permanent Secretaries.

    Musa assured the Speaker of their unwavering loyalty and commitment to the success of the Assembly’s operations.

    The Acting Clerk also prayed for divine guidance and protection for the Speaker in his leadership role.

    The appointments follow the enactment of the “Nasarawa State House of Assembly Service Commission Re-enactment Law 2023,” which came into effect on August 20, 2023.

    The law mandates the appointment of Deputy Clerks/Permanent Secretaries, stipulating that there shall be at least seven such positions within the House of Assembly.

    The appointees will have the same status, remuneration, and conditions of service as other Permanent Secretaries in the State Civil Service, both during their tenure and in retirement.

    The newly appointed Deputy Clerks include:

    Ibraheem Musa – Legislative Services, Alkali Haruna – Finance and Accounts, Barrister Obiri Uji – Legal Services, Hadiza Musa Bako – Administration and Supplies, Mrs. Rosia Kumbugu – Publications and Information and Mr. Owens Kpadji – Planning, Research, and Statistics.

  • Suspected Car Thief Allegedly Caught Disassembling Toyota Yaris To Steal Parts In Lagos

    A 39-year-old man identified as Monday Julius has been apprehended by the Lagos State Police Command during an alleged attempt to steal a Toyota Yaris car in the Oshodi area of the state.

    According to a statement released by the command, the suspect was arrested by officers of the Ilupeju division of the command after investigating the incident of the stolen car.

    The suspect was caught disassembling the car to sell in parts.

    The statement, released Monday, August 26, reads, “Officers of Ilupeju Division while investigating a report about a Toyota Yaris Saloon Car that was removed from where it was parked, arrested one Monday Julius ‘m’ aged 39 at Oshodi.

    “The suspect had however begun to disassemble the car to sell in parts as he could not sell it whole. The vehicle has been recovered and investigation is ongoing.”

  • EPL: Raheem Sterling Takes Decision On Joining Chelsea’s Rivals

    EPL: Raheem Sterling Takes Decision On Joining Chelsea’s Rivals

    Chelsea forward, Raheem Sterling, is open to complete a shock move to Premier League rivals, Manchester United.

    Sterling’s representatives have been considering their options after new Chelsea manage, Enzo Maresca dropped their client from first-team training and effectively told him to leave Stamford Bridge.

    Sterling was left out of the Premier League opener between the two sides last weekend despite featuring in pre-season.

    The 29-year-old has not featured in Chelsea’s two Premier League fixtures against Manchester City and Wolves this season.

    The England star is expected to leave Chelsea before the end of the summer transfer window.

    However, according to the Daily Mail, Sterling has not ruled out a move to the Red Devils this summer.

    Sterling joined Chelsea from Manchester City in 2022 and had played for Liverpool in the past.

  • Police Rescue Suspected Motorcycle Thief From Angry Mob In Jigawa

    The spokesperson of the command, DSP Lawan Shiisu Adam, said the suspect and an accomplice stole the motorcycle from the residence of one Salisu Shafiu.

    Datti Idris

    A suspected motorcycle thief has been rescued by men of the Jigawa State Police Command, after he was beaten up by an irate mob in Kazaure Local Government Area of the state.
     
    The spokesperson of the command, DSP Lawan Shiisu Adam, who disclosed this in a statement on Sunday, said the suspect, Datti Idris and an accomplice stole the motorcycle from the residence of one Salisu Shafiu.
     
    “On 20/08/2024 at about 1000hrs, information from a liable source disclosed that angry mobs gathered at Barga Quarters in Kazaure LGA and started beating one suspect for the offence of theft of motorcycle,” the statement read.
         
    “The team of Policemen raced to the scene after receiving the report.
         
    “On their arrival at the scene, the team professionally rescued the suspect who identified as Datti Idris ‘m’ 42yrs of Mu’azu village, Sule Tankarkar LGA.
         
    “On interrogation at Kazaure Division, the suspect revealed to have conspired with one Sardo, now at large, storm the residential house of one Salisu Shafiu ‘m’ 35yrs of Laminga village, Kazaure LGA, on the same date at about 0500hrs and stole his Bajaj motorcycle red in color.

    “The suspect was conveyed to hospital and later charged to court for prosecution.”