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CDHR CHARGES POLICE ON KILLING OF ITS MEMBER, CHRISTIAN NJOKU IN DELTA STATE: CALLS FOR INVESTIGATION AND PROSECUTION OF ERRANT OFFICERS WITHIN SEVEN (7) DAYS OR EXPECT BOTH LAGEL AND MASS ACTIONS

Published

6 years ago

June 21, 2018

CDHR CHARGES POLICE ON KILLING OF ITS MEMBER, CHRISTIAN NJOKU IN DELTA STATE: CALLS FOR INVESTIGATION AND PROSECUTION OF ERRANT OFFICERS WITHIN SEVEN (7) DAYS OR EXPECT BOTH LAGEL AND MASS ACTIONS

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Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR) has furiously condemned and berated the reckless, unlawful and provocative killing of one of its devout members, Comrade Christian Njoku, on Monday 18th June, 2018, by some errant Policemen, including one Sergeant Wilson, of Ekpan Police Station in Warri, Delta State. The malicious killing of Comrade Christian was clearly a manifestation of the several threats against members of CDHR by some Policemen in Delta State, following the activities of CDHR in defence of the rights of citizens against the oppressive, unlawful and criminal conducts of such Policemen.

The Delta Branch of CDHR reported that on Monday 18th June, 2018, some Policemen from Ekpan Police Station shot and killed Comrade Christian Njoku inside his own Car, took his lifeless body and hurriedly deposited at the mortuary at the General Hospital, Warri with instructions by the said Sergeant Wilson (with phone number 08037896445) that no one should know they (the Police), dumped the body of the deceased there, apparently with the intention to conceal their criminal misdeed. They (the Policemen) went further, as a ploy, to declare the slain young and vibrant Comrade Christian Njoku as an armed robber. The purported statement by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Delta State, which alluded to the false and unsubstantiated allegation of armed robbery and exchange of gunfire between the slain Comrade and the Police, was not only reckless but insensitive and callous. The Delta State Branch and the entire membership of CDHR have been caused to mourn and provoked to greater commitment to the protection and defence of Human Rights. Injury to one is injury to all! This is another challenge against the people by some errant state agents!

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CDHR therefore called on the Inspector General of Police, Ibrahim Idris, and the Commissioner of Police, Delta State, Muhammed Mustapha, to swiftly intervene in this matter and ensure thorough and dispassionate investigation of the killing within seven (7) days; and to unravel the irregularities and disparities in the statements of the Police. The claim of exchange of gunfire cannot be true and cannot be substantiated considering the state of the late Christian’s car that had no trace of gunshot impact on any part thereof. CDHR demanded that the Inspector General of Police must get involved in this matter and he must commission a special investigative team to thoroughly investigate this killing. CDHR further demanded transparent autopsy and Coroner Inquest in this matter. The Human Rights Group also demanded for an independent custody of the late Christian’s car, perhaps with the Department of State Services (DSS), to prevent possible interference by the Police, since they are alleged to have unjustifiably murdered the deceased Comrade and have attempted to cover their misdeed. CDHR had already noted the state of the said car, without any traces of gunfire impact, soon after the incident.

The spate of attacks and killings of members of CDHR by errant Policemen in different parts of the country, with similar recent cases in Imo and Ebonyi States, at Udu, and the instant case, just clearly reveals the disturbing level of insensitivity to the rights of citizens and value of life; it shows gross intolerance against matters of Human Rights and Human Rights activists by some Policemen and other security agents. The errant Policemen from Ekpan Police Station conducted themselves in the most unprofessional manner and tried to conceal their misdeed by alleging unsubstantiated case of armed robbery. The Human Rights group has called for a deliberate investigation and prosecution of those errant Policemen, especially Sergeant Wilson, to serve as deterrent to other trigger ready Policemen and to avoid a mass reaction by members of the group, other citizens and Civil Society Organisations.

In a statement issued by its National President, Comrade (Barr) Malachy Ugummadu and made available to the Press, CDHR decried how human life has become worthless; Human Rights activists have become targets for annihilation by some security agents. CDHR expressed worry over the level to which the general security situation in the country has degenerated and how some Policemen have abdicated their core role to protect the lives and property and have become the enemies of citizens; perpetrators of extrajudicial killings of innocent citizens. The Police need to be more professional with the objective to save and protect the lives of all citizens at all times; the right to life remains a fundamental right and must be protected, especially by state agents in all circumstances. Extrajudicial killing of anyone is unlawful, and a breach of the fundamental right to life of the slain Comrade.

The foremost human rights group emphasised that the right to life is guaranteed under section 33 of Chapter IV of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, as amendment, as well as under the African Charter on Human and Peoples Rights (Article 4); the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (Article 6) and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (Articles 3). The state has the primary responsibility to ensure the security and welfare of the people, as provided under section 14 (2) (b) of Chapter II of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, as amendment.

Signed

Comrade (Barr) Malachy Ugwummadu
National President, CDHR

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FRN V. Ali Bello & 3 Ors: Court adjourns to May 27 for continuation of hearing

Published

7 hours ago

May 2, 2024

Sahara Weekly

Panic As The Cardoso Family Takes Possession Of Lagos Land With 300 Houses

FRN V. Ali Bello & 3 Ors: Court adjourns to May 27 for continuation of hearing

Justice Obiora Egwuatu of the Federal High Court in Abuja has adjourned further hearing in the alleged money laundering charges against Ali Bello and three others to May 27, 2024.

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The Judge, on Thursday, adjourned the trial following the conclusion of evidence in chief by the second witness of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC,
Olomotane Egoro.

The adjournment was to allow counsel to Ali Bello, Abubakar Aliu, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria SAN, to cross examine the witness in his testimony against the defendants.

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At Thursday’s proceedings, in the suit marked: ABJ/CR/573/2022 (FRN Vs. Ali Bello and 3 others), Egoro, a Staff of Access Bank, tendered Bank Statements of Keyless Nature Limited, Fasab Business Enterprise and Ari Consulting and Integrated Limited and testified of cash lodgements into the accounts from 14 Local Government Areas of Kogi State.

The witness, who did not state the purpose for which the monies were transferred into the accounts, also testified as to withdrawals from the said accounts.

The lodgements and withdrawals were said to have been made from between 2017 and 2022.

At the end of the Witness’ testimony, Counsel to the 1st Defendant, Ali Bello (A. M. Aliyu SAN) prayed the Court for an adjournment to enable him cross examine the Witness. By agreement of Counsel, the matter was adjourned.

Rotimi Oyedepo Iseoluwa, SAN, appeared for the Prosecution.

Nureini Jimoh SAN appeared for the 2nd, 3rd and 4th Defendants.

Ali Bello and three others are facing trial on an alleged N3 billion fraud charge brought against them by the EFCC.

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STANDARD PROFILE OF BOMA FEMI JULIUS BY CHINEDU NSOFOR

Published

7 hours ago

May 2, 2024

Sahara Weekly

STANDARD PROFILE OF BOMA FEMI JULIUS

BY
CHINEDU NSOFOR

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Boma Femi Julius is one individual who has stood out in the dynamic and demanding realm of drilling and well engineering. With a robust educational background and extensive professional experience, Julius stands as a paragon of expertise and innovation in the field. His journey from Nigeria to international acclaim is a testament to his dedication, skill, and relentless pursuit of excellence.

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Education and Skill Set

Julius’ academic foundation is as solid as the wells he helps to engineer. He earned his Bachelor of Engineering in Polymer and Textile Engineering from the Federal University of Technology Owerri, Nigeria, in 2001. Building upon this foundation, he pursued further studies, obtaining a Mini MBA in Business Administration and Management from the Tekedia Institute in 2020. His crowning achievement came with the completion of a Master of Science in Drilling and Well Engineering from the prestigious Robert Gordon University in 2021.

Armed with this impressive academic arsenal, Julius possesses a diverse array of skills that set him apart in his field. As a drilling engineer and drilling fluids specialist, he combines technical acumen with practical experience to tackle even the most challenging drilling environments. Additionally, his expertise extends to the realm of martial arts, where he serves as a karate coach, demonstrating a well-rounded approach to both professional and personal development.

Professional Experience

Julius’ professional journey is marked by a series of notable accomplishments and contributions to the industry. He has held key roles at leading companies such as Schlumberger Gabon, Baker Hughes GE Saudi Arabia, and Sterling Global Oil Resources, among others.

At Schlumberger Gabon, Julius serves as the Lead Drilling Fluids Consultant, providing invaluable technical guidance and support to Assala Oil Company in navigating complex drilling operations. His role involves supervising all aspects of drilling fluids management, from backloading cuttings waste to ensuring adherence to HSE guidelines.

Julius’ tenure at Baker Hughes GE Saudi Arabia was equally impactful, where he led drilling fluids operations to meet the rigorous standards of Saudi Aramco’s offshore operations. His expertise in hole cleaning simulation and quality assurance helped to optimize drilling performance while upholding the highest safety standards.

As the CEO and Co-Founder of Globat Oil and Gas Skills/Mud School, Julius demonstrates his commitment to knowledge dissemination and professional development. Through training programs tailored to industry professionals at all levels, he shares his wealth of experience and expertise, shaping the next generation of drilling engineers and supervisors.

Contributions and Achievements

Julius’ contributions to the field extend beyond his professional roles, encompassing innovative problem-solving, environmental stewardship, and technological advancement. His meticulous approach to mud operations and inventory management has led to significant cost savings and improved drilling efficiency.

Notably, Julius has played a pivotal role in the successful drilling and completion of numerous high-profile projects, including those in H2S fields, HPHT wells, and deep offshore environments. His expertise in mud program development and application of cutting-edge technologies has been instrumental in overcoming complex drilling challenges and achieving operational excellence.

Professional Affiliations and Accolades

Julius is an active member of esteemed professional organizations, including the Society of Petroleum Engineers and the Energy Institute. His contributions to the industry have been recognized through various accolades and certifications, underscoring his status as a respected leader and authority in drilling and well engineering. Julius stands among the Amazon 20 best-performing CEOs in corporate Nigeria and ranks among the top 10 notable leaders in the country’s corporate sector.

Additional accolades

His professionalism has been recognized with awards from various organizations, including:

10th West Africa Brands Excellence Awards 2021, bestowed by The Institute of Brand Management of Nigeria, for being West Africa’s Best Oil & Gas Training School of the Year 2021.

Positioning of Globat Oil & Gas Skills as one of the best managed businesses in Nigeria’s private sector 2021, recognized by Guardian Newspaper Limited.

Inclusion among the 100 Most Innovative CEOs for the year 2020 by Africa Oil and Gas Brands Awards 2020, presented by The African Brands Magazine.

Acknowledgment as Africa’s Most Innovative Oil and Gas Training Centre of the Year 2020, honored by Vanguard for Developing Careers in the Oil and Gas Sector.

Recognition as one of Vanguard’s Top 40 Best CEOs 2019, awarded by Vanguard Newspaper Limited.

Conclusion

In Boma Femi Julius, the industry finds not only a consummate professional but also a visionary leader and mentor. His unwavering commitment to excellence, coupled with his passion for innovation and knowledge sharing, continues to shape the landscape of drilling and well engineering, inspiring others to reach greater heights in their own endeavors. As the industry evolves and challenges emerge, Julius stands ready to lead the way, leaving an indelible mark on the world of oil and gas exploration and production.

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LASRRA Eases Registration with New Centre at Blue Line Rail Terminal

Published

11 hours ago

May 2, 2024

Sahara Weekly

LASRRA Eases Registration with New Centre at Blue Line Rail Terminal

…Highlights Benefits of LAG-ID Card

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The Lagos State Residents’ Registration Agency (LASRRA) has taken a significant step towards improving its database by launching a registration centre at the Blue Line Rail Terminal.

The event, which occurred at Marina, Lagos Station, on Thursday, seeks to encourage commuters who reside in Lagos State and use the corridor daily to register and validate their information with LASRRA.

The General Manager of LASRRA, Mrs. Bilikiss Adebiyi-Abiola, expressed the agency’s commitment to providing convenient registration facilities for residents. Currently, LASRRA operates 62 registration outlets across the five divisions of Lagos. However, the agency plans to establish more centres to cater to the teeming population of the largest city in West Africa.

She highlighted the importance of bringing the registration process closer to residents, particularly those with busy schedules.

“By setting up centres at strategic locations like the Blue Line Terminal, LASRRA aims to ensure that all residents can fulfill their civic responsibility of registering with the agency.

“Similar registration centres will be established at other terminals across the state in the near future. This initiative is part of the government’s commitment to inclusivity and ensuring that no resident is left behind. The benefits of the LAG-ID Card, the end product of the registration process are enormous.

“Besides serving as a legitimate form of identification, the LAG-ID Card offers multifaceted usage. To check the status of their cards, registered individuals can simply dial the short USSD code *347*641#.

“It is important to note that the registration process is not complete until individuals collect their printed LAG-ID Card and receive a notification on their registered phone number for pick-up,” she noted.

The highlight of the event was when participants had the opportunity to use their LAG-ID Cards to board the train and experience a ride from Marina to Mile 2. This symbolic gesture showcased the seamless integration of the LAG-ID Card with public transportation and further emphasized the importance of registration for all residents.

She emphasized that LASRRA remains committed to its mission of capturing the information and biometrics of Lagos State residents to provide better services and meet their needs, and the launch of the registration centre at the Blue Line Rail Terminal is a significant step towards achieving this goal and ensuring the inclusivity of all residents in the state’s development plans.