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Abiodun inaugurates 18km Ala-Idowa-Ibefun Road, takes campaign to Odogbolu LG

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Abiodun inaugurates 18km Ala-Idowa-Ibefun Road, takes campaign to Odogbolu LG

…as former deputy governors rally support for governor

 

 

 

 

Ogun State governor, Dapo Abiodun, on Monday, reiterated that his administration would construct more roads in the state to further open it for more economic prosperity.

 

 

 

 

 

The governor stated this while commissioning the 18-Km Ala-Idowa-Ibefun Road, as part of his campaign tour to Odogbolu Local Government Area of the state.

 

 

 

 

He added that the road was another milestone in the infrastructural development of Ogun to address the huge deficit inherited by his administration.

“This is another milestone in the infrastructural development needed to further develop our state. These are visible projects which are in line with our vision to create prosperity for our people.

“We did not promise to do all things, but we will do all those things that we promised. We will make an appreciable mark by leaving the state better than we met it. We will continue to construct roads, rehabilitate schools and make them more conducive for learning. We will create an enabling environment for industries to strive. Please get your PVCs so that you can vote for us so that we continue with the development of our state” Abiodun noted.

He explained that the road is a federal road that connected Lagos with Ogun, it was constructed by the state government to ameliorate the hardship being encountered by the people who travel on the road on a daily basis.

He further noted that the road the project was another fulfilment of his campaign promises in 2019, which according to him is in line with the vision of his administration to build the future of the state and leave it better than he met it.

Abiodun, however, said that his administration had. ensured inclusive governance by executing at least a project in each of the 20
local government areas, assuring that all sectors would be given adequate attention through building of more houses, construction of more roads, provision of health facilities, while conducive environment would be made for teaching and learning.

Speaking during a courtesy call on the Dagburewe of Idowa, Oba Yinusa Adekoya in his palace, the governor directed the Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, to move to the Imosan-Imodi road and commence the reconstruction of the road.

He stated that apart from trying to bridge the infrastructural gap, his administration has grown the State Internally Generated Revenue; repositioned the education and health sectors, while affordable houses were also provided for the people.

“I want to assure you that I know your expectations, I know that there is still a long wish list that needs to be attended to, but I just want to plead that three and seven months is like a flash, the infrastructural deficit that we met on assumption of office requires more than three years and seven months to correct.

“However, as a people-oriented administration, we will continue to be responsive, when you call our attention to something, we will respond to it on time, we will continue to consult with you so that you have a voice and have a say in whatever decisions that we are making.

“When I was in Imodi- Mosan, I told them that road that leads from Ijebu-Ode, Molipa express to Imodi-Mosan, I am going to tell the ministry of works to come and start work on that road immediately, because a few times, my attention had been drawn to that road, ditto for the Aiyepe-Sagamu road which is a long road”, Abiodun stated.

He appreciated the traditional rulers for consistent support and their efforts at ensuring peace and security in their various domains, emphasizing that he would do more if voted for a second term.

“As we prepare for the year 2023 general elections, I want to admonish all of us to ensure that we go and collect our PVCs because without our PVCs, we won’t be able to vote and it is by voting that you can vote us in again to continue with this laudable initiative.

“Those that are here today, we consider you as our disciples, please, go back home and let our people know that they must go and collect their PVCs because you can only vote in the government you deserve or desire by using your PVCs’, the governor noted.

He dmonished parents and guardians to not allow their children to be used as thugs in the cause of the election, saying his administration has lowered the political temperature, by allowing every political party to go about in marketing themselves without fear

He warned that the state government would not tolerate any act of thuggery, vowing that “we will deal decisively against any person, no matter how highly placed that attempts to test our will”.

Oba Adekoya lauded that governor for his style of leadership which he said had engendered development in all parts of the state, saying that Idowa town founded in 1540 with close affinity with Ijebu-Ode, has gotten its fair share of projects from the state government.

He particularly commended the incumbent administration for focusing on road infrastructure, which according to him remained important to the socio-economic development of the state, concluding the governor would perform better in his second term.

Speaking on behalf of the traditional rulers in the local government area, the Obiri of Idobiri, Oba Adebisi Okunbanjo, said they were happy to identify with the Abiodun-led administration, calling for the construction of Ikenne-Ayepe and Okun Owa-Ijesha-Ijebu roads.

Meanwhile, former deputy governors in the state have publicly affirmed their support for the second term ambition of Governor Abiodun

The former number two citizens including Senator Gbenga Kaka, Alhaja Salimot Badru and the two deputy governors who served with the immediate past governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, Segun Adesegun and Mrs.Yetunde Onanuga, declared their support at the APC campaign rally held at Odogbolu town.

In their respective remarks, the former deputy governors commended the governor for taking the state to a higher level, noting he would do more if he is reelected.

They, however, expressed their confidence that the ruling All Progressives Congress(APC) would sweep the forthcoming poll.

Speaking, Governor Abiodun said that it would be the the first in the anal of the state that former deputy governors would be in the same political camp, calling the electorate to collectively vote for all candidates of the APC.

“This is the first time all living past deputy governors will be in the same political camp and party. As you will agree with me, this is great. As you can see all of them here, we are all happy.

“This is a good signal and good development. I want to encourage all eligible electorate to collect their PVCs and vote for APC both at national, state and local government levels”, Abiodun concluded.

Abiodun inaugurates 18km Ala-Idowa-Ibefun Road, takes campaign to Odogbolu LG

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Enhancing public safety and security: The Halo Trust, US Govt partner to provide ammunition handling and accounting training at Ikeja Lagos, Nigeria

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Enhancing public safety and security: The Halo Trust, US Govt partner to provide ammunition handling and accounting training at Ikeja Lagos, Nigeria

 

 

 

The Nigeria Police Force Explosive Ordnance Disposal – Chemical Biological Radiological and Nuclear (NPF EOD-CBRN) has successfully completed the first batch of training for 19 personnel on Ammunition Handling and Accounting Course. The training, held in Ikeja, Lagos, from December 3-20, 2024, was organized by The HALO Trust and sponsored by the United States Department of State’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs.

According to The HALO Trust’s Country Director for Nigeria, Prince Ganiyu Otunba, this training is part of aholistic NPF-HALO developed project aimed at supporting personnel capacity building, addressing equipment needs, and enhancing the operational readiness of the NPF EOD-CBRN Command to mitigate explosive ordnance threats in Nigeria. A second batch of 22 personnel is scheduled to undergo the same training in January.

The Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun PhD, NPM, through the CP EOD–CBRN CP Patrick Atayero expressed gratitude to the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs andThe Trust HALO for their support.

The training aimed to equip NPF EOD-CBRN personnel with the knowledge, skills, and best practices necessary to handle and account for ammunition and explosives safely and securely. The course also focused on ensuring proper accounting and record-keeping, preventing theft and diversion, reducing the risk of unplanned explosions at munitions sites, and promoting international best practices.

The NPF appreciates the support provided by the United States government, which will have a profoundly positive impact on the society.
CP Patrick Atayero emphasized the importance of responsible ammunition management in preventing the proliferation of illicit weapons and reducing the risk of unplanned explosions at munitions sites. He urged all stakeholders to collaborate with the Police in efforts to prevent the diversion, misuse, and unauthorized handling of explosive and other hazardous materials.

 

About HALO
The HALO Trust is the world’s largest humanitarian organization engaged in the field of Mine Action and weapons and ammunition management. With over 35 years’ experience, The HALO Trust is the most experienced organization in the field of Weapons and Ammunition Management, rehabilitating and constructing armouries and ammunition stores to international standards, disposing of unsafe and unserviceable weapons and ammunition, and building national capacity to allow for the safe, accountable and secure management and control of weapons and ammunition.
The HALO Trust presently implements Mine Action and weapons and ammunition management projects in 30 countries and territories. In 2024, HALO trained a total of 106 Nigeria security forces personnel in weapons and ammunition management.

Enhancing public safety and security: The Halo Trust, US Govt partner to provide ammunition handling and accounting training at Ikeja Lagos, Nigeria

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“Sentenced to Death for Stealing a Fowl: The Shocking Case of Segun Olowookere Sparks National Outrage”

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“Sentenced to Death for Stealing a Fowl: The Shocking Case of Segun Olowookere Sparks National Outrage”

“Sentenced to Death for Stealing a Fowl: The Shocking Case of Segun Olowookere Sparks National Outrage”

 

The Nigerian social media space was thrown into an uproar on Tuesday as news spread about Segun Olowookere, an only child, who was sentenced to death by hanging for stealing a fowl in Osun State. The case, which dates back to 2010, has raised serious questions about justice, fairness, and the Nigerian judicial system.

Olowookere, now 31, was arrested alongside Sunday Morakinyo in Oyan, Odo-Otin Local Government Area, when he was just 17 years old. Accused of robbing a police officer of two fowls and eggs worth ₦20,000, the duo was convicted in 2014 by Justice Jide Falola of the Osun State High Court.

The Arrest and Trial

According to Olowookere, his ordeal began when a group of minors, allegedly involved in theft, named him as their gang leader. Despite his denial, he was subjected to severe torture by police officers and detained without immediate legal recourse.

“The police demanded ₦30,000 for my bail, but my father could only raise ₦20,000. Before he could return with the full amount, I was transferred to the Special Anti-Robbery Squad in Osogbo,” Olowookere recounted.

At trial, six witnesses testified against him. Although he pleaded not guilty and claimed innocence, the court relied heavily on a controversial confession reportedly obtained under duress. Justice Falola sentenced both Olowookere and Morakinyo to death for armed robbery, life imprisonment for robbery, and three years for theft.

Public Outcry and Calls for Justice

The harsh sentence, perceived as disproportionate to the crime, has ignited widespread criticism. Human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN) condemned the ruling, arguing that the trial was unlawful since Olowookere was a minor at the time of the offence.

Falana stated, “The Osun State High Court lacked jurisdiction over the case. The matter should have been handled by the Family Court, which would not impose the death penalty on a child.”

Governor Adeleke’s Intervention

“Sentenced to Death for Stealing a Fowl: The Shocking Case of Segun Olowookere Sparks National Outrage”

Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has ordered an investigation and initiated steps for a pardon. “I assure the public that this case is receiving urgent attention. Justice and fairness must prevail,” the governor announced on X.

Lingering Appeal and a Tarnished Legacy

The case is still pending appeal at the Court of Appeal, Akure, 13 years after it began. Meanwhile, Justice Falola, who presided over the trial, was recently retired by the National Judicial Council following a separate scandal involving professional misconduct.

The Human Toll

Olowookere, who has spent over a decade on death row, dreams of becoming a doctor. He has trained under medical practitioners at his custodial center and hopes to prove his innocence and contribute to society.

“I pray to God to set me free. I am not a criminal. I’ve never stolen anything in my life,” he said.

Morakinyo, his co-convict, was not as fortunate. Following years of torture, he has developed severe mental health issues and is now unrecognizable, according to Olowookere.

What’s Next?

As the public awaits the conclusion of the appeal process, Olowookere’s story has become a rallying point for advocacy against systemic injustice. Many Nigerians are calling for comprehensive judicial reforms to prevent such cases in the future.

The tragedy of Segun Olowookere is a grim reminder of the cracks in Nigeria’s justice system—cracks that have left a young man’s life hanging in the balance for over a decade.

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Nigerian Man Returns ₦5 Million Mistakenly Sent to His Account Amid Economic Hardship

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Nigerian Man Returns ₦5 Million Mistakenly Sent to His Account Amid Economic Hardship

A Nigerian man, Ben Kingsley Nwashara, has become a symbol of integrity after returning ₦5 million mistakenly deposited into his bank account during a time of widespread economic hardship in the country.

Nigerian Man Returns ₦5 Million Mistakenly Sent to His Account Amid Economic Hardship

Nwashara shared his experience on X (formerly Twitter) on December 20, posting a screenshot of the unexpected transaction alert. He expressed astonishment at receiving such a large amount during challenging financial times.

“Someone mistakenly sent me ₦5,000,000 (Five Million Naira) to my Fidelity Bank account. In this hard time? I’ve been getting calls from different persons because of this,” he wrote.

Determined to resolve the situation lawfully, Nwashara immediately contacted the police to report the incident, explaining his intent to protect himself from potential fraud accusations.

“I will be headed to the police station to make a statement. Let the bearer of the account come and confirm he or she sent it with evidence,” he added.

In a follow-up post, he shared evidence of his integrity—a receipt showing the successful return of the funds to Sliding Towers Global Limited, the original sender. Additionally, he documented his visit to the Ogui Police Station in Enugu to ensure transparency and accountability.

“Let it be on record that I’ve returned the sum of ₦5Million mistakenly sent to me by one Sliding Towers Global Limited. I’ve also made an entry at the Ogui Police Station, Enugu, to this effect,” Nwashara stated.

His actions have garnered widespread praise on social media, with many commending his honesty and strong moral compass, particularly during Nigeria’s current economic challenges.

“This is the kind of integrity we need in our society. He didn’t succumb to the temptation to keep the money despite the hardship,” one user wrote.

Ben Kingsley Nwashara’s exemplary behavior has sparked conversations about ethics and accountability, proving that integrity still thrives in unexpected situations.

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