Kano Governor’s Aide Claims Fortification Against Arrest

Sanusi Bature, the Director General of Media and Communication to the Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Yusuf, has claimed he is fortified to resist police arrest. Bature made this declaration on Saturday while addressing attendees at the PR Nigeria Young Communication Fellowship in Kano.

The governor’s aide revealed that he spent five days taking refuge at the Kano State Government House to evade arrest by the police. He alleged that at least 40 officers from the Inspector General of Police Monitoring Team were deployed to Kano with the specific mandate of apprehending him.

Bature stated that he remained within the Government House due to the constitutional immunity it provides, which prevents law enforcement from effecting arrests within its premises without the governor’s permission.

“I obtained a court order restraining the police from arresting me,” he explained, adding that the document, though not yet served to the police, had circulated widely. “I’m confident they must have seen it,” he said.

Despite the looming threat of arrest, Bature insisted on attending the event, citing three key reasons.

“Firstly, I felt it was important to be part of this event, even if it meant being arrested,” he said.
“Secondly, the court order gives me some legal cover, and lastly, I ventured out with confidence because I am well fortified to resist arrest if it happens.”

According to Bature, the arrest attempt stemmed from a petition that he claimed was being handled directly by the Inspector General of Police. He, however, did not disclose the nature of the allegations against him.

While addressing the gathering, Bature reiterated his belief in his legal protections and expressed confidence in his ability to navigate the situation.

The episode highlights the ongoing tensions between political figures and law enforcement agencies in Nigeria. It also raises questions about the use of immunity provisions and court orders to counteract police actions.

Ooni of Ife Praises Buhari’s Post-Presidency Well-being and Legacy

The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has commended former President Muhammadu Buhari for his contributions to Nigeria during his time in office, describing him as a vibrant and rejuvenated elder statesman in retirement.

The monarch shared these sentiments during a two-day courtesy visit to Buhari’s residence in Daura, Katsina State, where they engaged in discussions on Nigeria’s development and the nation’s future.

Reflecting on the former President’s post-presidency life, Oba Ogunwusi remarked, “He’s 30 years younger right now. When you see him, you’ll be amazed at how relaxed, vibrant, and full of life he is. He looks remarkably younger than his age, and God has truly blessed him with renewed good health.”

The Ooni expressed optimism about Buhari’s well-being and lauded his resilience and dedication during his leadership. He also noted that Buhari’s unique experience as both a former military and civilian leader, coupled with his strong support in the northern region, positions him as an influential figure who could provide valuable guidance to the current administration.

The visit, according to a statement released by the monarch’s palace, was an opportunity for a meaningful exchange between the revered traditional leader and the former President, underscoring their shared commitment to Nigeria’s progress.

South Korean Police Raid Presidential Office Amid Martial Law Scandal

South Korean police have raided the presidential office in connection with President Yoon Suk Yeol’s failed attempt to impose martial law last week. This move follows the mounting political crisis surrounding the president and his allies, who are now facing charges of insurrection. Several key figures, including Yoon’s associates, have been placed under travel bans.

The former Defense Minister, Kim Yong-hyun, who took responsibility for the martial law attempt, has reportedly attempted suicide while in custody, according to a Justice Ministry official. Despite the controversy, President Yoon has apologized for the declaration but has rejected calls for his resignation.

A vote to impeach Yoon last weekend failed after members of his ruling party boycotted it. However, opposition lawmakers have vowed to hold weekly impeachment votes until he steps down. North Korean state media has condemned the martial law attempt, calling it an “insane” move by a “fascist dictator.”

Unprecedented Raid on Presidential Office

Local reports indicate that the police did not inform the president’s security team about the raid in advance. This marks the first time since December 2019 that a presidential office has been searched. During that raid, prosecutors did not enter the office grounds but received materials from the staff, as per protocol.

The current raid’s scale will depend on whether officers are searching the office or simply retrieving documents. President Yoon is now under investigation by police, prosecutors, and anti-corruption officials. An independent investigation into his martial law attempt has been secured by opposition lawmakers.

Yoon faces accusations of treason, a crime for which he does not have immunity as president. Investigators have suggested they will arrest him if sufficient evidence emerges. The political chaos has led to ongoing protests, with demonstrators demanding his resignation.

Raids Target Martial Law Records

Details of the raids have emerged, with 18 investigators reportedly sent to the presidential office to seize records related to a cabinet meeting held the night of the martial law declaration. Yoon, listed among the suspects in the search warrant, was not in the office during the raids. Investigators have also visited the National Police Agency, Seoul Metropolitan Police, and National Assembly Police Guards to gather more evidence on the events surrounding the martial law attempt.

Unclear Leadership in South Korea

Since the chaotic events of last Tuesday, it remains uncertain how much authority President Yoon still holds. The head of Yoon’s party, Han Dong-hoon, has stated that Yoon will no longer participate in state affairs until his departure is arranged, with Prime Minister Han Duck-soo managing government affairs in the meantime. A roadmap for Yoon’s early exit is expected to be finalized by Saturday.

Despite these developments, the Defense Ministry confirmed that Yoon still has control over the armed forces, allowing him to make decisions on foreign policy and national security matters.

North Korea Condemns Yoon’s Actions

North Korea has also weighed in on the martial law attempt, labeling it an “insane act” and likening it to a coup d’état reminiscent of South Korea’s past military dictatorship. North Korean state media condemned Yoon’s actions, calling them an attempt to establish a “fascist dictatorship.”

Ongoing Turmoil and Investigations

The political landscape in South Korea remains volatile, with protests continuing and calls for Yoon’s resignation intensifying. Although an impeachment vote failed last Saturday due to a boycott by Yoon’s ruling party, opposition members plan to push for a new vote this Saturday.

Authorities have imposed travel bans on Yoon and other key figures, including former Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun, who resigned after taking responsibility for the martial law attempt. Investigators are continuing their inquiries, and the head of the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials has expressed intent to seek Yoon’s arrest if sufficient evidence is found.

Parliamentary Probe Underway

The Speaker of the National Assembly, opposition politician Woon Woo-shik, has initiated a parliamentary investigation into Yoon’s actions, which will include obtaining testimony from the president. A special committee will oversee the investigation to ensure transparency and accountability.

Former Defense Minister’s Suicide Attempt

In another development, former Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun attempted suicide while in detention. He is said to have tried to take his life late last night but was discovered in time. Kim, who resigned following the martial law attempt, has been placed under guard but is reportedly in stable health.

Ongoing Searches and Uncertain Future

During the raids, which also targeted the National Police Agency and other offices, Yoon was not present at the presidential office. The situation continues to evolve, with further investigations expected into the failed martial law attempt and the political fallout that follows.