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Police Summon Dino Melaye Over Shot At Police Sergeant. (Photos)

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The Kogi State Police Command has summoned Senator Dino Melaye to report at the State Criminal and Investigation Department after his armed guards fired on a team of policemen on patrol duties in the state.

A police sergeant was the victim of the shooting, the police said and is recuperating in the hospital.

The Kogi Police Command asked Melaye to report at the SCIID office in the state capital, in the company of his armed guards, as investigation began on the shooting.

the policeman shot by Melaye’s guards recuperating in hospital

According to the police, their statement, signed by DSP William Ovye Aya, the PRO, was partly to refute Melaye’s allegation that he was shot at by the police.

On the contrary, the police said that Melaye’s guards opened fire first, with the police responding.

Dino Melaye, right, commissioning a transformer in Mopa after the encounter with the police

In posts on Instagram, Melaye did not mention any shooting incident. However, he claimed the police tried to block his convoy with a grader, parked on a bridge, while he was on his way to Yagba east to commission some projects. According to him, his convoy avoided the blockade.

In another Instagram post, the senator representing Kogi West said the state government barricaded the road to stop his movement.

It was on Twitter that the senator claimed an attempt was made on his life during the visit to his state.

He claimed over 20 bullets were fired at his jeep by a combination of policemen, men of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) and the military.

”I thank God for spearing(sic) my life once again. Over 20 bullets holes on my jeep. Combination of police,SARS and military. God I thank you.

The police statement reproduced below contradicted his account:

“Today, at about 1530hours, a team of policemen from the Command was on a routine Anti – Robbery/Kidnapping patrol along Aiyetoro Gbede – Mopa Road.

“During the patrol, and as it is often the practice, the team pinned down at a point at Iyah Gbede Junction, where they were observing the highway and occasionally conducting Stop and Search.

Melaye claims this grader was used to block a bridge to prevent his passage

“It was in this process a long convoy of vehicles coming from Mopa towards Aiyetoro Gbede approached the Point. Officers of the Command at the Point flagged down the convoy. While the lead vehicle, a Toyota Hilux van, which was later discovered to be conveying officers of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, stopped to introduce themselves, other vehicles in the convoy dangerously zoomed off without regards to the safety of the officers on ground.

“Surprisingly, some plain clothed armed men, occupying a white Toyota Hilux van, without registration number, without provocation fired gunshots at the officers of the Anti-Robbery /Kidnapping Patrol Team.

“One of the officers, a Sergeant, was hit by bullet on the right part of his chest as a result of which he sustained grievous injury.

“The Officer is currently lying critically ill in the hospital where he has undergone a live threatening surgery and currently recuperating.

“Expectedly, the policemen in self defence responded by firing back to repel the unexpected attack. Vehicles in the convoy nevertheless, drove away from the scene. It was not until the officers of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps were questioned that it was realised that the convoy was that of Senator Dino Melaye.

“It is rather unfortunate that the Senator could after this dastardly act by his aides, be going around with armed men, unknown to the Command who could launch such a lethal attack on police officers in the course of their normal duty.

“It is more saddening that the Senator could turn around to issue misleading statements to cover up the heinous crime committed by his hired aides.

“While, the command has instituted a high powered investigation panel into the incident, Senator Melaye is hereby advised to report with people in his convoy to the office of the Deputy Commissioner of Police, State Criminal Intelligence and Investigation Department, Lokoja to assist in the investigation.”

Source: http://kikiotolu.com/police-summon-melaye-after-his-guards-shot-sergeant/

 

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Christmas Party Tragedy: Seasoned Movie Producer, Bukky Amos-Bello, Expresses Support for Queen Naomi, Sympathizes with Victims

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Christmas Party Tragedy: Seasoned Movie Producer, Bukky Amos-Bello, Expresses Support for Queen Naomi, Sympathizes with Victims

Christmas Party Tragedy:
Seasoned Movie Producer, Bukky Amos-Bello, Expresses Support for Queen Naomi, Sympathizes with Victims

 

A top Nollywood actress and movie producer, Arewa Bukky Amos-Bello, has joined numerous well-wishers who have expressed their support for former queen of Ife Kingdom, Naomi Silekunola, who is currently facing challenges following a tragic stampede at a charity event she organised in Ibadan, resulting in loss of children’s lives.

 

The beautiful thespian popularly called Ajitannawo, in a statement made available to journalists on Sunday, sent a message of encouragement, urging Queen Naomi to stay strong.

 

 

In her heartfelt message, Arewa Amos-Bello expressed sorrow over the incident and offered prayers for Queen Naomi’s courage and resilience in the face of the tragedy.

 

“Be strong and courageous; the Lord is with you. And He will never forsake you my Queen Silekunola. My heart goes out to you in this sorrowful time of yours. My prayer is with you always. God bless you in this difficult time,” Arewa Bukky wrote, while she offered her sincere condolences to families and parents of the victims.

 

Arewa Amos-Bello stated that she feels every bit of what Queen Naomi feels at the moment because she is also a philanthropist who understands that the former Ife Queen did what she did with good intentions.

 

She added;

“I know she meant well because I’m also into charity. The Ibadan event was not her first nor was it the second. We can only pray that God help her and console the victims.”

 

“I want to assure her of my valid support; she is not alone. Her struggles are valid and real, and in acknowledging this, she finds our solidarity. When things like this happen, we may feel ashamed and find it hard to cope, yet even in such a dark time as this, we share our burdens, support one another, and find strength in our unity. She must not give up on her goal and she is encouraged to stand tall against the odds. She is never alone in this journey, she will overcome.”

Christmas Party Tragedy:
Seasoned Movie Producer, Bukky Amos-Bello, Expresses Support for Queen Naomi, Sympathizes with Victims

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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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