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Sagamu Riot: Abiodun visits affected locations, vows to go after perpetrators

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Sagamu Riot: Abiodun visits affected locations, vows to go after perpetrators

 

 

 

 

 

SAGAMU RIOT– Following the violent protests that rocked Sagamu on Monday over the scarcity of the new naira notes, the Ogun State governor, Dapo Abiodun, on Tuesday, visited Sagamu for on-the-spot assessment of buildings and property affected by the unrest, with a declaration that the state government would go after those involved in the arson and wanton destruction of the public property.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Speaking with newsmen shortly after the assessment tour of the affected areas, the governor described the level of destruction of properties as shocking and never seen in the history of the town.

 

 

 

 

 

 

“I am here to have on-the-spot assessment of what happened about the protest that rocked Sagamu yesterday. I have visited the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company, local government secretariat and I am here at the Akarigbo Road to see the banks.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What I have seen here breaks my heart. I am speechless. It was supposed to be a protest, but what I have seen here is that there are sinister objectives. The IBEDC office and the local government secretariat were vandalized with properties worth millions of naira destroyed. At the banks, hoodlums attempted to take away computers and cash.

 

 

 

 

 

 

“The protest is beyond naira redesigning or swapping policy. We heard that from so many eye witnesses, we also believe from what we have seen today and this is most unfortunate particularly, as elections are few days away.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

“This is obvious to me that some elements are determined to unleash mayhem in order to cause voters’ apathy or perhaps to hopefully believe that there will be no elections, if they continue with the violence.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

” As the Chief Security Officer of this state, I consider this a test of not only my will, but the collective will of the law architecture. We are going after any person that either directly or indirectly associates with this hideous crime. We will swing them, we will arrest them and they will face the full wrath of the law and make a good example of them”, Abiodun stated.

 

 

 

 

 

 

He reiterated that despite the violence that broke out in the country as the result of the EndSARS protest two years ago, Ogun State was relatively peaceful, as it did not record any destructive protest or violence, wondering why such happened now.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

He expressed thanks to God that no life was lost and to the people for remaining calm in the face of such provocation, assuring that the government would support those who are affected.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The governor further appealed to the people to go about their normal businesses peacefully, saying that adequate security would be provided by the law enforcement agencies.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

He commended the security agents who responded swiftly to the mayhem, saying the perpetuators could only wish, plan, but could not break the spirit of the people, just as he assured that elections would hold on Saturday, February 25, as planned, warning that anyone fomenting trouble would be dealt with.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The governor was accompanied on the visit by the Akarigbo and Paramount Ruler of Remoland, Oba Babatunde Ajayi, the Brigade Commander, 35 Artillery Brigade Alamala, Abeokuta, Commissioner of Police, other Service Chiefs, members of the State Executive Council, among others.

 

Sagamu Riot: Abiodun visits affected locations, vows to go after perpetrators

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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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Director General NSC, Bar. Bukola Olopade Extends Christmas Greetings to Christians in Abeokuta South and Across Nigeria

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Director General NSC, Bar. Bukola Olopade Extends Christmas Greetings to Christians in Abeokuta South and Across Nigeria

Director General NSC, Bar. Bukola Olopade Extends Christmas Greetings to Christians in Abeokuta South and Across Nigeria

 

 

By Solanke Ayomideji Taiwo

 

 

In a heartfelt message, The Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Honourable Bukola Olopade, has extended warm festive greetings to Christians in Abeokuta South, Ogun State, and across Nigeria as the nation embarks on the joyous celebration of Christmas.

 

Director General NSC, Bar. Bukola Olopade Extends Christmas Greetings to Christians in Abeokuta South and Across Nigeria

 

Recognizing the significance of this time of year, Olopade emphasized the essence of unity, love, and gratitude that the Christmas season embodies. He urged citizens to reflect on the virtues of compassion and generosity, which are particularly vital in fostering peace and harmony in communities.

 

 

 

“Christmas is a time for joy, reflection, and togetherness. It reminds us of the values of love and kindness, which are fundamental to our social fabric,” said Olopade. “As we celebrate this festive season, let us remember those in need and extend a hand of support to one another.”

 

 

The Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Honourable Bukola Olopade, acknowledged the challenges that many have faced over the past year, including economic hardships and social unrest, yet he expressed optimism for the future. “In the spirit of Christmas, let us embrace hope and look forward to a brighter tomorrow. Our unity and resilience can overcome any challenges we face.”

 

 

 

Olopade also highlighted the importance of sports in promoting peace and national unity, noting that the NSC is committed to fostering an inclusive environment where all Nigerians can participate in sports and recreational activities. He encouraged communities to engage in sports events during the festive period as a means to strengthen bonds and celebrate togetherness.

 

 

 

As part of his Christmas message, Olopade called on everyone to prioritize the welfare of others, particularly the less fortunate. He urged individuals and organizations to consider charitable acts that can uplift those in need during this season of giving.

 

 

 

In closing, Bar. Bukola Olopade wished all Nigerians a Merry Christmas filled with love, peace, and joy. He expressed hope that the spirit of the season would inspire a renewed commitment to community service and cooperation among citizens.

 

 

 

As the festivities continue, the Chairman’s message resonates with the values of compassion, unity, and hope, encouraging all to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas.

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