“The terrorists took advantage of the gaps in cooperation between both countries and exploited difficult terrains to make incursions in remote areas in some North Western states to spread their ideology,” he said.
Uncategorized
Tension in Ondo as gunshots rock polling unit, boat capsized
Sporadic shootings have been reported at a polling unit in the Oke Ijebu area of Akure at the ongoing governorship election in Ondo State.
Ondo police spokesman, Tee-Lee Ikoro, confirmed the incident, adding that mobile police personnel had been promptly drafted to the area.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) said on Twitter that those shooting were thugs from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The opposition party said the plan was to scare away voters from the polling unit.
Also, a boat conveying electoral materials and officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, to the Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State capsized this morning.
The boat was said to have capsized on its way to deliver voting materials to polling units in the Ilaje area.
No death was recorded as all the passengers were reportedly put on life jackets while onboard.
The Police Public Relations Officer, Tee-Leo Ikoro, who confirmed the incident, however, said the development would not affect the election.
He added that the materials were not affected either.
The Deputy Inspector General leading the police team for the election, Leye Oyebade, said on Friday that adequate measures had been put in place to ensure maximum safety during the poll.
He said tactical squads had been deployed in strategic areas apart from police manning the polling booths.
Oyebade said, “We have been able to put a robust mechanism on ground that is going to work; a mechanism that it is going to give us the desired result, which is safety.
“We have deployed to the riverine areas at least three per unit. We have deployed men to all the collation centres and given adequate protection to INEC officials, and materials in all the necessary areas that are meant to be covered.
“Our preparation has been ongoing before now behind the scene. We have been able to crime map the state and noted the threat analysis.
“We will not be distracted. We have enough personnel to address the issues of banditry, kidnapping and all of that. We have our technical platform to track and do the needful.
“We have adequate number to address the supervision of this election; personnel are sound technically. We are good to go. We have been able to structure the terrain, the waterways, land and air, all entry and exit points. We have been able to get adequate personnel lectured, trained and tutored to be professional.
“So, with the personnel we have on ground, appropriate logistics and with the mindset to sacrifice, because this is a major event to celebrate our democracy, the police officers’ morale is very high. We know that the police and other security agencies are ready to protect lives and property.
“We have been able to support in terms of protection of INEC officials and transportation of INEC materials that has begun for some days now and has been going on without any issue.”
He also said, “We have a code of conduct guiding the personnel that have been deployed. They have been given a tag with their names and pictures on it to identify them in the places they are posted to. “Their names and mobile phone numbers are also with the officials at the various places they are posted. That is how we will curb fake or illegal policemen.
“We have also sent out dedicated mobile numbers- 07049960674 and 09152784339. These two numbers are for members of the public to have access to us through calls and text messages.
“If they think there is an urgent matter going on, they can send a message, pictures or videos to us through WhatsApp on this number: 07049936417.”
But the Transition Monitoring Group (TMG), a coalition of over 400 civil society organisations, on Friday condemned what it described as an invasion of the state by some governors.
The Chairman, Transition Monitoring Group, Dr Abiola Akiyode-Afolabi, said at a press briefing this constituted a threat to the peaceful and credible conduct of the election.
Also, the Independent National Electoral Commission has denied the allegation by the PDP that it appointed a townsman of Governor Rotimi Akeredolu as its chief returning officer for the election.
National Commission and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee, Festus Okoye, gave the clarification in a statement on Friday.
The PDP had on Thursday alleged that the electoral umpire had appointed the Vice-Chancellor of the Obafemi Awolowo University, Prof. Eyitope Ogunbodede, as the chief returning officer for the governorship election.
The Chairman of the PDP National Campaign Council and Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde said Ogunbodede is a known crony of Governor Akeredolu of the All Progressives Congress and hails from Owo, the same hometown as the candidate.
Makinde said Ogunbodede could not be a fair party in the proceedings by virtue of his association with the governor and as such, would not guarantee a free and fair election.
But in dismissing the report, Okoye said the returning officer for the election was not from Ondo State and not from the OAU.
“The attention of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has been drawn to a press conference addressed by the Chairman of the PDP National Campaign Council and Governor of Oyo State, Mr Seyi Makinde, on Thursday, October 8, 2020 to the effect that the Commission has appointed the Vice-Chancellor of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Professor Eyitope Ogungbenro Ogunbodede, as the returning officer for the Ondo governorship election taking place on October 10, 2020.
“While the commission will not be drawn into speculations relating to the performance of its constitutional and statutory functions, it is imperative to set the records straight for the benefit of the people of Ondo State and the integrity of the electoral process.
“It is the sole responsibility of the commission to appoint a returning officer for the Ondo governorship election and does not share this responsibility with any individual, group, or political party.”
metro
New terror group now operating in Kebbi, Sokoto – Defence HQ
New terror group now operating in Kebbi, Sokoto – Defence HQ
The Nigerian Military has said that a new terror group has been identified in the country.
The Defence Headquarters on Thursday morning said the group is in operation in Kebbi and Sokoto States.
Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Edward Buba, revealed that this group is affiliated with jihadi organizations in Mali and Niger.
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The emergence of this new terror group is attributed to the political instability in Mali and Niger, which has led to a spill-over effect in Nigeria’s northwestern region.
New terror group now operating in Kebbi, Sokoto – Defence HQ
Uncategorized
A Life of Impact: Celebrating Alhaja Fausat Fadeke Atoke Bankole
A Life of Impact: Celebrating Alhaja Fausat Fadeke Atoke Bankole
BY SAKA GBEMINIYI
Alhaja Fausat Fadeke Atoke Bankole, a remarkable woman, left an indelible mark on the lives of those who knew her. Although she may not have had formal education, her wisdom, kindness, and entrepreneurial spirit inspired countless individuals.
Her passing leaves a void, but her legacy endures.
Born into a humble family, Alhaja Fausat’s determination and resilience shaped her future. She started very early in life as she ventured into business, leveraging her natural talent for herbal remedies.
Her expertise in traditional medicine earned her respect and recognition within her community.
As a recognition of her commitment to her profession, she was in 2019 honoured as APESIN of Alagbo of Ibadanland by her professional body.
Her successful business acumen provided for her family and created endless opportunities for others.
Alhaja Fausat’s commitment to community service was unwavering. As a dedicated member of the Ansarudeen Society of Nigeria, she actively participated in various charitable initiatives.
Her selflessness and generosity inspired others to follow suit. She provided support to the less fortunate, offering guidance, shelter, and financial assistance whenever needed.
And as a mark of honour, the Oyo State chapter of Ansarudeen Society of Nigeria took over her burial and ensured that all Islamic injunctions pertaining to burial were dutifully carried out.
As a mother, her greatest joy was her family. She leaves behind a loving husband, Alhaji Abdu Waheed Bankole and children among whom are Mogaji (Alhaji) Abdu Akeem Adewale Bankole, Mr Sharafadeen Adebayo Bankole, Mrs. Ahmad Amidat Olaide and Mrs. Rufai Rukayat Adeola. Her grandchildren affectionately called her Grandma or Iya Agbo.
Her death will for very long time remained a mystery to some of her acquaintances as nobody expected her to leave at the time left.
Alhaja Fausat passed away at the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan after a brief illness surrounded by loved ones and family members (both nuclear and extended).
The outpouring of love and respect was evident during the 8th day Fidau prayers, held at Aweni Arena, Oke-Ado, Ibadan.
Hundreds of people gathered to pay their respects, sharing stories of Alhaja Fausat’s kindness, generosity, and impact.
Those who knew Alhaja Fausat described her as a pillar of strength, wisdom and a generous benefactor to her community.
Her legacy extends beyond her immediate family. She touched the lives of countless individuals through her business, community service, and kindness.
Alhaja Fausat Fadeke Atoke Bankole’s life serves as a testament to the power of determination, resilience, and compassion.
Rest in peace, Alhaja Fausat Fadeke Atoke Bankole. Your life was a blessing to many, and your memory will continue to inspire generations to come.
Uncategorized
NAJA commended, holds training on CNG initiative Thursday
NAJA commended, holds training on CNG initiative Thursday
The Nigeria Auto Journalists Association (NAJA) will this Thursday October 31, 2024 holds a training/capacity building workshop on Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) as an alternative fuel for vehicles in Nigeria.
Already, key stakeholders in the Nigerian automobile industry have commended the association for its initiative to organise the workshop.
The one-day training is slated for Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) building, Ikeja, under the theme: CNG/LPG/EV Initiative: Challenges, Sustainability, Opportunities, Alternative to Fossil Fuels in Nigeria’.
Some of the industry stakeholders said NAJA was showing the lead in the auto industry by propagating the government’s initiative, which they noted would bring succour to motorists and Nigerians in general.
Managing Director, Jet Systems Limited, Mr. Derek Ewelukwa, said the training and capacity building on the CNG initiative was timely.
He spoke in an interaction with the training committee, saying that by holding the workshop, NAJA was taking an important step in helping the public and key stakeholders to better understand the government’s CNG initiative.
He insisted that auto journalists as a vehicle of information dissemination and a channel of enlightenment, play a critical role in breaking down complex issues like the CNG initiative, stressing that through this platform, the media was helping to promote greater awareness and acceptance of cleaner energy options.
He enjoined other beat associations to emulate NAJA in propagating government schemes.
Ewelukwa said, “We want the public to understand the benefits of transitioning to CNG, as an alternative fuel to petrol and diesel, particularly in terms of cost savings, environmental impact, and energy sustainability.
“A key part of our participation, we will focus on addressing safety concerns and skepticism about the use of CNG, especially with fears surrounding gas explosions and/or fires.
“We will aim to educate and clarify that CNG systems are rigorously tested and designed with strict safety standards, making them a safe and reliable alternative.”
In his comment, Operations Manager, Mikano Motors, Mr. Syam Abdul-Kadir, said that the training would further bring to the fore necessary steps required by all; government, stakeholders and the public to make the new initiative work.
Abdul-Kadir also lauded the leadership of NAJA and its members for embracing the initiative, stressing that it would go a long way in boosting its public acceptance.
He maintained that as a new development, sensitising and educating the public with accurate and factual information was key.
He posited that by sharing the facts and statistics with the public, the company also intended to prevent a widespread fear of the unknown and provide them with renewed hope for a better Nigeria.
He added, “everybody is a stakeholder, whether you choose to use CNG powered vehicles or not, the CNG initiative on transportation will support the ease-of-doing business. It also has less emissions than fuel, so everyone is impacted”.
“It is critical to emphasize that all stakeholders need to be aware that the correct certifications and adherence to global standards for CNG use must be implemented. From the appropriate certified tanks and parts to the correct standards for dispensing, the goal is to encourage the use of CNG vehicles correctly.”
Chairman of the 2024 Annual Training/Capacity Building Workshop Committee, Adrian Egonu, said through the training in the past, many members of the auto journalists’ association had enhanced their knowledge base of the industry.
He explained that NAJA was intentional with the 2024 theme, noting that the Federal Government in the last 16 months had taken some giant steps to promote Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) and Electric Vehicles (EV), in line with global best practices for cleaner burning automotive fuels.
Egonu said that the 2024 edition would further ensure improved knowledge and skills of the journalists and commended sponsors for partnering with the association in its drive to contribute to the auto industry not just in Nigeria, but around the world.
He declared that the training would afford industry investors and sponsors the opportunity to showcase their products and reach a wider audience.
Chairman NAJA, Mike Ochonma, in his comment, commended the sponsors and partners for associating with NAJA.
He stressed that NAJA as the fourth estate of the realm would continue to play its critical roles of information, education and opinion molding without bias.
Other industry leaders that have confirmed participation include, the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), C
FAO Mobility, Fixit45 Limited and Pi-CNG.
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