society

Husband jailed 12 years for killing wife

Published

2 weeks ago

November 26, 2024

Husband jailed 12 years for killing wife

The Lagos State High Court in Ikeja on Monday convicted and sentenced a man, Akinwale Akinlabi, to 12 years imprisonment for killing his wife.

The convict was initially arraigned on July 26, 2021, on a count of manslaughter before the presiding judge, Justice Oyindamola Ogala, to which he pleaded not guilty.

His charge sheet read, “Akinwale Akinlabi on or about February 2, 2020, at No 23 Adeogun Street, Ijaiye Ojokoro area of Lagos State, in the Ikeja Judicial Division unlawfully killed one Cecilia Tope Akinlabi.”

According to the prosecution counsel, the one count of manslaughter is an offence that contravenes Section 229 of the Criminal Law Ch. C17, Vol. 3, Laws of Lagos State 2015.

It was reportedly gathered that during the trial which began on May 12, 2022, the prosecution’s first witness, identified as Inspector Jumai Adonduwa, testified that the deceased had reported her husband, the defendant, to the police for domestic violence before her death.

“The deceased on January 30, 2020, at about 11:40 pm, made a report against her husband, the defendant, at the station and stated that on that particular day at about 10:00 am, her husband demanded N100 from her to buy a recharge card and when she said she didn’t have any to give him, the defendant used a bunch of brooms to beat her in the presence of her son. She said she left home for peace to reign and thought that by the time she returned, all would be settled,” Adonduwa said. He then told the court that the deceased returned at about 10:00 pm and the beatings continued.

“She said the radio in the room was too loud and when she tried reducing the volume, the defendant came in from nowhere and started beating her with fist blows all over her body. The defendant then pushed her and she fell on a glass shelf in their room.

“She said the glass broke and she sustained a serious injury with a deep cut and that her husband continued to beat her and it was her son that rescued her from the defendant and that the defendant threatened to beat her to death saying that his family has money for a court case,” Adonduwa stated.

The prosecution counsel further disclosed that the deceased’s brother came to the Ijaiye Police Station to inform them about his sister’s sudden death.

On February 2, 2020, at about 6:30 pm, the brother to the deceased came to the police station to report that he was in Benin when he heard the sad news of his sister’s death and that he learnt that his sister had come to the station to report the case. He told the police that his sister had died as a result of beatings. The deceased’s brother stated that the defendant refused to inform them of the death of their sister and that the defendant took the corpse somewhere in Ogun State to bury it without the consent of her family,” he said.

Adonduwa further confirmed that the children reported their mother was purging blood and was rushed to the hospital where she slumped and later died.

The prosecution’s second witness, Sergeant Adeniyi Sola, testified that he was familiar with the defendant and remembered February 3, 2020, when the case was initially reported at the Ijaiye Police Station against the defendant. He stated that the case was later transferred to the SCID for further investigation. His testimony supported that of the prosecution’s first witness.

During cross-examination, Adeniyi confirmed that the first altercation occurred on January 31, 2020, and the second incident happened a day before the deceased’s death. He also assured the court that he conducted a thorough investigation into the case.

The defendant, testifying as the defence second witness on March 18, 2024, stated that he had been married to his wife for 21 years without any incident of violence. He revealed that January 29, 2020, was the first time the police intervened in their marital issues. The defendant also disclosed that his wife had a history of health episodes, including attacks and fainting. Furthermore, he confirmed that, to his knowledge, his late wife did not have any disagreement with anyone else apart from the January 29, 2020 incident.

Justice Ogala, in her judgment, stated that the prosecution had established beyond a reasonable doubt the single count of manslaughter against the defendant whose wife, Cecilia Tope Akinlabi, died on February 2, 2020. She held that there was consistency in the evidence of the prosecution witnesses as regards the facts leading to the fight between the defendant, his wife and the resultant injury.

The judge said, “After having carefully reviewed the evidence before the court, the evidence tendered and the position of the case law, the honourable court finds that the prosecution has provided circumstantial evidence beyond a reasonable doubt, the unlawful acts of the accused which harmed the deceased and caused her death.”

“The honourable court finds that it is clear from the evidence before it that the fatality arose from the violence (fight) that ensued between the defendant and his wife. It is also clear that the death was unintentional and that the deceased died shortly after the fight. The fact of vertical scars on the back of the deceased as stated in Exhibit (f) corroborates the evidence of the prosecution witnesses and situates the sustained injury.

“Prosecution has indeed established the ingredients of the offense of manslaughter that the defendant is charged with. He is therefore accordingly convicted of the same.”

He ruled that, After having heard and having considered the plea of the defence counsel, and also taking into consideration the peculiarity of this case, the defendant is accordingly sentenced to a term of 12 years. The period of his incarceration, from February 3, 2020, will also be taken into consideration.”

society

NCS, JBPT Intercept Six Pump-Action Rifles and 1,125 Live Cartridges in Oyo State By Ifeoma Ikem

Published

1 hour ago

December 8, 2024

Sahara Weekly

NCS, JBPT Intercept Six Pump-Action Rifles and 1,125 Live Cartridges in Oyo State

By Ifeoma Ikem

The Joint Border Patrol Team (JBPT), Sector 2, South West Zone of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), has intercepted six pump-action rifles and 1,125 live cartridges in Oyo State.

Addressing journalists, the Coordinator of JBPT Sector 2, Mohammed Shuaibu, stated that the unit also arrested 1,507 irregular immigrants between 2019 and 2024. He noted that the briefing marked the conclusion of the ad-hoc unit’s operations since its inception. During this period, the unit seized contraband goods valued at N36.7 billion.

Shuaibu disclosed that the live cartridges were concealed inside sacks containing cassava flakes.

“On December 3, 2024, a patrol team spotted a man fleeing from a stationary Toyota Camry along the Okerete-Odo bush path in Oyo State. The suspicious behavior led to an inspection of the abandoned vehicle. Upon searching the car, six pump-action rifles with the following serial numbers were discovered: 602-H22YT-641, 602-H22YT-397, 602-H22YT-623, 22-MT-0238, P537916, and T051084. Additionally, 1,125 live cartridges were found concealed in sacks containing cassava flakes,” Shuaibu said.

Seizures and Accomplishments

Other notable seizures made by JBPT Sector 2 between August 20, 2019, and December 2024 include:

130,954 bags of foreign rice (50kg each): Equivalent to 218 truckloads.
7,200 kilograms of pangolin scales.
5,575,020 liters of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS).
11,322 cartons of foreign frozen products.
4,124 bales of used clothing.
4,057 kegs of vegetable oil.
15 pump-action rifles.
280 suspected cases of human trafficking.
480 vehicles.
1,190 modes of conveyance used in smuggling activities.

Shuaibu emphasized that the sector’s efforts also bolstered the Federal Government’s revenue, with N1.140 billion remitted into the Federation Account through the auction of seized petroleum products.

Enhancing National Security

He highlighted that the unit’s activities disrupted the supply chains of illicit goods, thereby enhancing national security by addressing concerns linked to cross-border crimes. Shuaibu acknowledged that JBPT Sector 2 faced several operational challenges. However, he credited the successes to collaboration with critical stakeholders, innovative problem-solving approaches, and effective leadership.

Appreciation and Commendations

Shuaibu commended the dedication of JBPT Sector 2 officers, personnel from component security agencies, and patriotic citizens who contributed to combating cross-border crimes.

“I am privileged to lead a courageous and determined team committed to our nation’s safety and security. Your dedication, bravery, and perseverance have been instrumental to the successes recorded by the team. The tireless efforts towards securing our borders, suppressing smuggling, and intercepting illegal immigrants have not gone unnoticed,” he said.

He expressed gratitude to God, noting that no lives were lost during “Operation Swift Response.”

society

Ewekoro Local Government Strengthens Ties with Community and Celebrates Unity at Recent Events

Published

12 hours ago

December 7, 2024

Sahara Weekly

Ewekoro Local Government Strengthens Ties with Community and Celebrates Unity at Recent Events

Ewekoro, Ogun State – December 7, 2024

In a series of significant events underscoring the commitment to community welfare and development, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Ewekoro Division, led by Division Officer Mrs. Oyebade Folukemi, paid a congratulatory visit to the newly elected Chairman of Ewekoro Local Government Council, Hon. Adesina Sikiru Adisa. This visit, which took place on December 2, 2024, marked a crucial step towards strengthening collaboration between the NSCDC and local government officials, aimed at enhancing the safety and security of the Ewekoro community.

Mrs. Oyebade expressed her congratulations to Hon. Adesina, emphasizing the NSCDC’s commitment to supporting local governance and ensuring a secure environment for residents. The visit served as a platform to discuss strategies for improving safety measures in the area, illustrating the proactive approach of the NSCDC in fostering a safe community for all.

In another notable event, market women from Ewekoro Local Government paid a visit to Hon. Adesina to express their gratitude for his administration’s efforts in empowering local traders. Under his leadership, significant projects have been implemented, including the construction of modern market facilities, such as the 183 lock-up shops at Arigbajo Market. These developments have greatly enhanced the socio-economic activities of market women, contributing positively to their livelihoods and the overall well-being of the community.

Led by Alhaja Ejire, the head of market women, the delegation thanked Hon. Adesina for his unwavering support and commitment to their cause. The discussions during the visit focused on exploring further collaboration to address the challenges faced by market women, reinforcing the administration’s dedication to people-oriented projects that uplift the community.

The strong presence of local leaders during this visit, including Vice-chairman Alhaja Abisola Nuratu Aliyu and other key administration officials, highlighted the unified effort to promote the welfare of Ewekoro’s residents. The Chairman’s administration has earned recognition for its initiatives that significantly impact the lives of market women and the broader community.

Additionally, the recent Obada Day 2024 celebration, held on December 1 at Owiwi Primary School in Obada Ward 10, showcased the unity and love within the communities of Obada Town. Hon. Sikiru Adesina joined dignitaries such as HRM Oba Olufemi Solaja, the Olu of Obada Town, and HRH Oba Kasimawo Ogundare, the Olu of Opelifa, to celebrate this significant event. The celebration emphasized the importance of love, unity, and progress in Ewekoro Local Government, Ogun State, and Nigeria as a whole.

In a related announcement, the Ewekoro Local Government has informed all revenue consultants that the 2025 Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) Sales of Form will commence on December 2 and close on December 13, 2024. Those interested in securing a position are encouraged to purchase the form during this period.

These recent engagements and celebrations reflect Hon. Adesina Sikiru Adisa’s commitment to fostering community spirit, enhancing local governance, and promoting economic growth in Ewekoro Local Government. As the administration continues to work hand-in-hand with various stakeholders, there is a renewed sense of optimism for the future development of the community.

society

FG Issues Alert on New COVID-19 Variant XEC Found in 29 Countries

Published

1 day ago

December 7, 2024

Sahara Weekly

FG Issues Alert on New COVID-19 Variant XEC Found in 29 Countries

The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare has raised an alert on the new XEC COVID-19 variant, urging heightened surveillance across Nigeria’s healthcare facilities.

The XEC variant, first identified in Australia, has now been detected in 29 countries and is showing a growth advantage over existing strains. Health experts are concerned about its potential impact on public health.

The warning was conveyed in a letter dated December 5, addressed to the Committee of Chief Medical Directors and Medical Directors by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Dr. O.N. Anuma.

“I am directed to inform you of the newly detected XEC COVID-19 variant which has already spread to 29 countries globally. This variant has shown a growth advantage over other circulating strains, raising concerns about its potential impact on public health,” the letter read.

Call to Action

Dr. Anuma emphasized the need for immediate vigilance in hospitals nationwide.

“Alert systems should be activated immediately for a high index of suspicion in patients presenting with COVID-like symptoms,” he said.

The ministry also stressed the importance of collaboration among health institutions to monitor the variant and share critical data.

“We urge you to work with relevant stakeholders to implement enhanced monitoring protocols and ensure timely information sharing with the Federal Ministry of Health for effective response strategies.”

Global Spread and Implications

First identified in Germany in June, the XEC variant has since been reported in France, the United States, the UK, Denmark, and other countries. Over 600 cases have been recorded globally, with scientists noting that while the variant has mutations that may aid its spread, vaccines are expected to remain effective in preventing severe cases.