GAZA UNDER SIEGE: 19 Palestinians Killed in Israeli Attacks

 GAZA UNDER SIEGE: 19 Palestinians Killed in Israeli Attacks

Gaza City, Gaza Strip - At least 19 Palestinians, including women and children, were killed in Israeli attacks targeting northern and southern Gaza Strip areas on Saturday.

Multiple Airstrikes Rock Gaza City

Five Palestinians died and others were wounded in an airstrike near Dar Al-Arqam School in northwestern Gaza City, according to Gaza's Civil Defense. A separate airstrike killed a woman and injured several others in eastern Gaza City.

Civilian Casualties Mount

Medical sources reported 11 Palestinians, including three women and four children, killed and many injured in Israeli shelling targeting a house in Al-Tuffah neighborhood, eastern Gaza City. Beit Hanoun saw one Palestinian killed in an artillery strike.

"Humanitarian Safe Zone" Attacked

In southern Gaza, one Palestinian was killed and six injured in an Israeli bombing of a tent sheltering displaced people in Al-Mawasi area, west of Khan Younis.

Destruction and Displacement Continue

Eyewitnesses described Israeli forces destroying residential buildings and neighborhoods near the Nitzarim axis, separating northern and southern Gaza.

Ongoing Crisis

Israel's Gaza offensive, launched last October, has killed over 41,000 people (mostly women and children) and injured 95,000, according to local health authorities. The blockade has caused severe shortages of food, clean water, and medicine, displacing almost the entire population.

International Community Urged to Intervene

The UN Security Council's demand for an immediate ceasefire remains unheeded. The international community is called upon to take action to halt the humanitarian crisis.

The Complex World of Women's Thoughts: Unraveling the Mysteries of Decision-Making and Relationships

 The Complex World of Women's Thoughts: Unraveling the Mysteries of Decision-Making and Relationships

Women's thoughts and decision-making processes have long been a subject of fascination and sometimes, misconception. The complexities of the female mind are often oversimplified or misunderstood, leading to stereotypes and unrealistic expectations. In this article, we'll delve into the intricacies of women's thinking, exploring what drives their decisions and what makes them receptive to romantic relationships.

The Emotional Landscape

Women's brains are wired to prioritize emotions, empathy, and interpersonal connections. Research suggests that women's brains have a larger corpus callosum, facilitating communication between logical and emotional centers. This integration enables women to consider multiple perspectives, weighing emotional implications alongside rational considerations.

Irrational Decisions: Myth or Reality?

Women are often accused of making irrational decisions, but this perception stems from a narrow understanding of their thought process. Women's decisions may seem impulsive or emotional, but they're often guided by:

1. Intuition: Women's intuition is a powerful force, driven by subtle cues and emotional intelligence.

2. Emotional resonance: Women prioritize relationships and emotional connections, influencing their choices.

3. Contextual thinking: Women consider the broader context, factoring in long-term consequences and interpersonal implications.

What Convinces Women to Accept a Man?

While every woman is unique, research highlights key factors that contribute to a woman's willingness to accept a romantic partner:

1. Emotional intelligence: Men who demonstrate empathy, active listening, and emotional awareness are more attractive.

2. Authenticity: Genuine, vulnerable, and true to oneself – these qualities foster trust and connection.

3. Shared values: Aligning values and life goals create a strong foundation for relationships.

4. Support and encouragement: Women value partners who support their aspirations and personal growth.

5. Communication: Open, honest, and respectful communication is essential for building trust.

Debunking Stereotypes

It's essential to dispel common misconceptions about women's thoughts and decision-making:

1. Women are not inherently irrational or emotional; their processes are simply more holistic.

2. Women are not solely driven by emotions; logic and reason play a significant role.

3. Women's decisions are not always about seeking validation; self-awareness and autonomy are key.

Conclusion

Women's thoughts and decision-making processes are multifaceted and influenced by a complex interplay of emotions, context, and relationships. By embracing this complexity and abandoning simplistic stereotypes, we can foster deeper understanding and more meaningful connections.

Lagos Prepares for Dangote Refinery Operations, Guarantees Smooth Traffic Flow

 Lagos Prepares for Dangote Refinery Operations, Guarantees Smooth Traffic Flow

The Lagos State Government has unveiled a comprehensive traffic management plan to ensure free-flowing traffic along the Lekki-Ajah corridor as the Dangote refinery commences operations on Sunday. Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Transportation, Sola Giwa, announced the strategy, reassuring residents and commuters of thorough preparations.

LASTMA Boosted with Advanced Equipment and Personnel

The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has been equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and trained personnel to regulate traffic flow in the affected areas. Advanced tow trucks, emergency response equipment, and medical ambulance services are on standby to address potential disruptions.

Strict Adherence to Traffic Regulations

The state government will enforce strict adherence to traffic regulations by tanker operators, particularly during loading and navigation within the Lekki-Ajah axis. Commercial bus operators and mini-bus drivers are cautioned to comply with traffic laws, refraining from picking up or dropping passengers at undesignated bus stops and driving against traffic.

Government Commitment to Citizens' Welfare

The Lagos State Government reaffirms its commitment to safeguarding citizens' welfare and maintaining orderly traffic during this period of industrial activity. By adhering to regulations, residents and commuters can ensure a harmonious and efficient transportation system.

Actress Joan Johnson Opens Up About Her Turbulent Past

 Actress Joan Johnson Opens Up About Her Turbulent Past

Fast-rising actress, Joan Johnson, has shared her heart-wrenching story of overcoming adversity to achieve her dreams. From being a house help and facing sexual harassment to being duped of N4.7m and struggling to make ends meet, Joan has seen it all.

Despite her challenges, Joan has risen above them and is now living her dream as a movie star. She has worked with top Nollywood actors and played lead characters in several productions.

Joan's Love Life

Joan has also opened up about her love life, revealing that she has been hurt badly in past relationships. She prioritizes her career and is unsure if she'll get married. Despite her efforts to make her partners feel special, she's often met with scorn.

A True Survivor

Joan's story is a testament to her strength and resilience. From being a child actor to becoming a superstar, she's proven that with determination and hard work, anything is possible.

Follow Joan Johnson's journey as she continues to soar in the entertainment industry!

Manchester United Adds Sekou Kone to Premier League Squad

 Manchester United Adds Sekou Kone to Premier League Squad

Manchester United has announced the inclusion of Sekou Kone in their Premier League squad for the 2023-2024 season. The news was broken by renowned football transfer expert Fabrizio Romano on Friday night.

According to Romano, Kone, an 18-year-old midfielder from Mali, is considered a significant talent for both the present and future. His addition to the squad comes ahead of Manchester United's Premier League clash with Southampton on Saturday.

Kone, who joined the Red Devils from Guidars FC, is expected to be integrated into the under-21 squad as he adjusts to life in England. His inclusion in the Premier League squad signals a bright future for the young midfielder.

Manchester United's Squad Boost

The addition of Sekou Kone to Manchester United's Premier League squad is a significant boost to the team's midfield options. With his talent and potential, Kone is expected to make a meaningful contribution to the team's success in the upcoming season.

"Tragedy struck on the Gbòde Jedo River in Ogun State

  "Tragedy struck on the Gbòde Jedo River in Ogun State

"Tragedy struck on the Gbòde Jedo River in Ogun State when a boat ferrying wood merchants capsized, leaving two people unaccounted for. The victims, Ahohe Seido and Dogbon, were part of a group transporting firewood to the Benin Republic when a sudden storm caused the boat to overturn. Rescue efforts managed to save two individuals, but the search for the missing duo continues. The Ogun State Police Command has launched an investigation and is collaborating with local divers to locate the missing persons."

Or, in a slightly different tone:

"A devastating boat accident occurred on the Gbòde Jedo River in Ogun State, resulting in two people going missing. The boat, carrying wood merchants, was headed to the Benin Republic when a fierce storm hit, causing it to capsize. While two individuals were rescued, Ahohe Seido and Dogbon remain unaccounted for. The authorities are working tirelessly to find the missing pair, with the Ogun State Police Command leading the search efforts."

"Legal proceedings have been initiated by a lawyer against Bola Tinubu, the Police Council, and others, contesting the purportedly unlawful prolongation of the IGP's tenure."

 "Legal proceedings have been initiated by a lawyer against Bola Tinubu, the Police Council, and others, contesting the purportedly unlawful prolongation of the IGP's tenure."

"President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Nigeria Police Council are facing a lawsuit at the Federal High Court in Abuja. The case, filed by lawyer and human rights activist Maxwell Opara, challenges the legality of extending the tenure of Inspector General of Police Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun. Opara seeks a court order to stop Egbetokun from continuing to act as IGP, arguing that the tenure extension under the amended Police Act is unlawful."

Or, in a slightly different tone:

"Human rights lawyer Maxwell Opara has filed a suit against President Tinubu and the Police Council, contesting the legitimacy of IGP Egbetokun's tenure extension. Opara requests a court injunction to prevent Egbetokun from further serving as IGP, citing violations of the amended Police Act."

The lawyer's main argument is that, according to the Public Service Rules 2023, Egbetokun must retire as a public servant when he turns 60 or completes 35 years of pensionable service, whichever comes first. The lawyer is asking the court to clarify several points, including:

- Whether Egbetokun's position as IGP is subject to the Public Service Rules

- Whether he can continue in office after reaching retirement age

- Whether formal notification is needed when an appointment ends due to retirement

- Whether a terminated appointment can be revived by a later law change

The lawyer seeks court declarations that:

- Egbetokun's position is subject to the Public Service Rules

- He must retire at 60 or after 35 years of service

- No formal notification is needed when an appointment ends due to retirement

- A terminated appointment cannot be revived by a later law change

- Egbetokun cannot remain in office after reaching retirement age

- Only actively employed, non-retired police officers can be appointed as IGP

The suit, supported by an 18-paragraph affidavit, was filed by Pastor Nnenna Maxwell Opara on behalf of the plaintiff, but a hearing date has not been set yet.

The APC withdraws from the Edo election peace accord.

 The APC withdraws from the Edo election peace accord.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has decided to withdraw from signing the peace accord for the Edo State governorship election, citing concerns over unresolved security issues, particularly the killing of a police officer assigned to their candidate, Senator Monday Okpebholo. This decision comes less than 12 hours after Governor Godwin Obaseki, while meeting with the Chairman of the Presidential Peace Committee, former Head of State General Abdulsalami Abubakar, indicated that his party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), might not sign the peace accord. He explained that the PDP has lost confidence in both the police and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

During a press conference at the party secretariat, Emperor Jarret Tenebe explained that their decision not to sign was influenced by several factors. He highlighted that, despite a police inspector, Onuh Akor, being shot and killed over two months ago along Airport Road while serving as the orderly to the party's candidate, Sen. Monday Okpebholo, no arrests or prosecutions have occurred. This is despite former Commissioner of Police Funsho's claims that the command had identified the suspects involved in Inspector Akor’s murder at the Benin airport.

Tenebe alleged that instead of arresting the suspects, Governor Godwin Obaseki is reportedly harboring them in the government house. He asserted that this police failure has emboldened both Governor Obaseki and his party, the Peoples Democratic Party, to repeatedly attack members of their political party at rallies and business locations.

He criticized the governor for making inflammatory remarks that undermine his role as the Chief Security Officer of the State. Tenebe detailed various attacks on the APC campaign team in communities like Akoko-Edo, Etsako Central, and Esan West while they were mobilizing supporters for the election. 

In response to these attacks, Tenebe noted that Governor Obaseki had remained silent and failed to condemn the violence. Instead, he pointed out that Odion Olaye, Chairman of the Nigerian Labour Congress in Edo State, had threatened that “Nigeria will burn” if INEC did not declare the PDP candidate, Asue Ighodalo, as the winner of the September 21, 2024 gubernatorial election.

Tenebe also mentioned that several PDP leaders have publicly boasted about their ability to act with impunity, and criticized the police for not addressing the party’s petition, which included names of suspects involved in these incidents.

He stated, “In summary, these incidents highlight Governor Obaseki’s reluctance to promote peace and the security agencies’ failure to ensure a peaceful environment for the upcoming September 21, 2024 election.”

The Pharmacy Council has closed 666 drugstores in Kaduna.

 The Pharmacy Council has closed 666 drugstores in Kaduna.

The Pharmacy Council of Nigeria has closed 666 unauthorized medicine shops in Kaduna State due to their illegal operations and breach of National Drug Distribution Guidelines.

The crackdown, which started earlier this week, targeted various open drug markets and other locations throughout the state where medicines were sold without proper registration and oversight.

This action is intended to ensure the safe and effective distribution of drugs, safeguard public health, and prevent the sale of dangerous substances.

At a press conference in Kaduna on Thursday, PCN Director of Enforcement, Pharm. Stephen Esumobi, reported that the closures included 47 pharmacies, 313 patent medicine stores, and 306 other illegal medicine outlets.

Esumobi mentioned that the PCN team inspected 895 locations during the operation, issuing 9 compliance orders to shop owners found operating illegally.

He stated, "By the conclusion of the enforcement exercise, which began earlier this week, a total of 895 premises were inspected. This included 75 pharmacies, 514 patent medicine shops, and 306 illegal establishments.

"A total of 666 premises were sealed. These included 47 pharmacies, 313 patent medicine shops, and 306 illegal medicine shops."

Esumobi cautioned that the PCN would not hesitate to take additional measures against non-compliant medicine dealers. He also mentioned that the council would support owners of sealed shops who are willing to adhere to the regulations.

Few hours to 2 years in office; my open letter to Governor C.C Soludo

Izuchukwu D. Anolue

My dear Governor, it pleases me to congratulate you as you will mark two years in office tomorrow 17th March, 2024 as the leader of the Nigerian greatest state. It is unarguably a great feat for one to become the Governor of any state in Nigeria but an election into the office of Anambra state Governor is unique for obvious reasons. Historically, Anambra has had the most resourceful people in Nigeria. The Azikiwes, Okadigbos, Ojukwus and the Orizus are some amongst the hundreds of human resources bestowed upon us as a people . The likes of Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie from Abba and Ebuka Obi Uchendu from Okija have for some time been making our dear state proud globally. A state with such human capital certainly will have some peculiar characters.

My dear Governor, on 27th December, 2009, you were in St. Anthony's Catholic church Umuohi Okija during the year's harvest and bazaar on the invitation of Ken Emeakayi, former state Chairman of the People's Democratic Party (PDP), then the party's state Vice Chairman Anambra South which was as at that time your political platform. It was my first time seeing you and you can imagine the joy in the heart of an 18 year old Anambrarian seeing a man he had read about through the pages of national newspapers and watched on television between 2004-2009 while in office as the Governor of the Nigerian apex bank.It was an ecstasy seeing someone who was as at that time a role model. 

After the election on 6th February, 2010, you lost to Mr. Peter Obi, the would be greatest Igbo man in the last few decades. Your second contest for same office was also unsuccessful, it was Dr. Willie Obiano instead. Sir, I am sure that if you were from another state in Nigeria, with all your portfolios , profile and antecedents in the banking industry, no candidate would be a match for you but because it was Anambra state, the land of lions and elephants, the mountain was almost impossible to climb. In 2020, your interest to run for the office of the Anambra state Governor on the platform of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) was already declared, and on 4th November, 2021,your long time dream to become the Governor of Anambra state was fulfilled.

Upon your declaration as the Governor elect of Anambra state, people like me could not wait for too long to witness the the Dubai -Taiwan promised us before 2010. In one Fr. Joe Memorial High School Aguleri where I served as a Corp member between November 2021 to November 2022, I had wrangles with staff members on what was called my blind support for Charles Soludo. I was not struggling to convince them to believe me because I was sure they would witness our collectively desired transformation from a man touched by magic wand. "Yes, he did it in the Central Bank of Nigeria, Anambra state is too small for Soludo, he has the capacity and wherewithal to place us among the most responsible states in Africa". This was always my statement to these teachers. I even became uncomfortable staying in the same staff room with them because I was sure that a fight would ensue whenever your name was mentioned in a manner that displeased me.

My dear Governor, I am sure you will not want to transcend the boundaries of mortality without having young men like me who will without any fear criticize the ills and abnormalcies in your administration, WE ARE ALL FROM ANAMBRA, the home state of Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe. First, I must commend your efforts so far in building Anambra state. In infrastructural development, it is very clear that you are doing well considering the deplorable state of our environment when you assumed office almost two years ago. You have also thrived in education employing almost, if not more than five thousand teachers since your assumption into office. Recently, I also read on the internet that about 5,000 PCs were distributed to teachers in Anambra state, this was unprecedented and laudable. But my dear Governor, our state is unsafe under your watch.

Education is one of the prettiest things every good government can do for its people. In fact, it is catalytic to positive change. Infrastructures are also pertinent for this developmental strides we have embarked on as a people but sir, security of lives and properties of the people are the most fundamental responsibilities of any reasonable government, even under the natural and national laws.

My dear Governor C.C, today 16th March, 2024 marks one month one Mr. Arinze Obunadike from Umuohi Okija was murdered in Onitsha by a team of gangsters working as law enforcement agency. Despite the priming to the matter in the first week of the incidence, you have made no official statement about this dastardly act and sheer wickedness by people employed in your government. Your incompetent information Commissioner who could not write good account in English language of what actually happened in Onitsha tried to distort the story but the world already knows the truth. To this day, not even the state Commissioner of Police has been able to bring the perpetrators of Arinze's killing before the law to face Justice.

My dear Governor, what will you be celebrating tomorrow 17th March ; the killing of Arinze or the injustice apportioned to his family, the negligence to the 70 year old mother or the confidence you have lost among ndi Anambra?

Few days ago, I watched through the social media how a young man was brutalized by a section of the law enforcement agency you have employed. If we allow these to continue, how many of us will live to make use of those roads and schools you are building?

Sir, giving justice to the family of Arinze Obunadike would be a remarkable two years celebration in office but if not, be assured that praise singers and bootlickers are leading you to the furnace of Nebuchadnezzar.

I will still say congratulations as you mark your two years in office tomorrow Charlie Nwagbafor. Being 10% great like you is one of my biggest aspirations. But you must DO JUSTICE.

 *Justice to Arinze Obunadike!!!* 

 *_Izuchukwu D. Anolue_* 

 *UPIC, United Kingdom.* 

 *_Saturday 16th March, 2024_*

My Mother

   By Pan-Okafor, Jessica Chidera

    Kindle and soft blossom of rest

    Strong and might shield of care

    Elegant beauty in heart

    So happy should I have been

    Pushed me with tear's

    

    My mother ,My beauty

    My mother ,My hope

    My mother ,My shield and strength

    My mother ,My life and love

    My Comfort zone , My all

   

    When shall our part ever cross

    When shall my heart delight again

    I love and miss you

    I need and want you

    I desire ur role in my life

    My Kindle bed _Absent 

    My tears _forgotten

    when life's hurt 

    You were gone

     I need you back ,My mother

8 suspected oil thieves in rivers investigated by (EFCC)

 8 suspected oil thieves in rivers investigated by (EFCC)

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has launched an inquiry into the actions of eight individuals suspected of participating in oil theft in Port Harcourt, the capital of Rivers State. This development was revealed by the EFCC Spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, in a statement issued on Wednesday in Abuja.

Oyewale stated that the investigation was initiated after the Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base, Bonny Island, Port Harcourt, handed over the suspects to the EFCC on Wednesday. The suspects, along with their vessel MV Cabrini, were apprehended during an operation on November 8, 2023, with an unspecified quantity of illegally acquired Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) along the Bonny Channel.

The individuals involved in the alleged oil theft are Tyson Saidi, Emmanuel Memedo, Bamidele Owoeye, Sunday Okenwa, Sanusi Adeola, Kessen Friday, Miebaka Kienka, and Emmanuel Adewole. Lt.-Comm. G.Y Gwaza, the Naval Hand-Over Officer, conveyed that the suspects were handed over to the EFCC for further investigation and potential prosecution.

Responding to the handover, Chief Superintendent of the EFCC, CSE Itoro Levi, who received the suspects, assured that a comprehensive and professional investigation would be carried out. She also expressed gratitude to the Navy for their collaborative efforts with the EFCC.

Wrong use of beauty products

by Jennifer Chinonso 

 “Beauty is in the eyes of the beholder “, goes the popular saying. It boils down to say that everyone is beautiful in his /her own way and should not be stigmatized on the ground that he /she is dark or fair in complexion. We were created in the image of God and after his likeness.

Beauty products are products that are produced to enhance our natural beauty not alter it.

Its major aim is to bring out one’s beauty, acts as a catalyst to repair some damages caused by sun and other environmental hazards. But recently, the use of beauty products has being wrongly used by many due to some reasons either personal or societal reasons.

It is disheartening to watch a TV documentary especially in Asia countries where people of dark complexion are seen as dirty and such be considered as animals and not humans and as such people in the bid to make money decided to experiment on how to alter the natural dark color of people who are willing to lay down their bodies for such experiment. They mix different chemicals and present it to the ignorant masses.

In one documentary, during the advertisement of a washing machine, an dark man was dipped in the machine and when pulled out, he was a fair man. That is racism in the highest order. In a similar light, an Asian woman was seen feeling disgusted about her dark complexion and the next scene was shown when the dark woman became white.

Some adverse effect of the wrong use of beauty products include:-

Skin cancer 

Untimely aging 

Eye infection 

Breakout 

Clogged pores that is bumps around the eye

Zebra coloration etc

It’s important to note that you are unique and nobody else has your skin,, no matter the advice of dermatologist and experts, it’s important to find out what works best for you and always be kind to your skin. Don’t be deceived or get jealous of other people’s skin, love yourself because you are wonderfully and beautifully made. 

The APC successfully secures victory in the Ekiti Local Government election.

The APC successfully secures victory in the Ekiti Local Government election.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has been declared the victor in the Ekiti State local government election held on Saturday, according to the Ekiti State Independent Electoral Commission (EKSIEC). 

Justice Cornelius Akintayo (rtd), the EKSIEC Chairman, revealed that the ruling party secured victory in all 38 chairmanship and 177 councillor seats. The election covered 177 wards, 22 Local Council Development Areas, and 16 Local Government Areas within the state, with Justice Akintayo making the announcement at the state electoral body's situation room in Ado Ekiti, the capital.

New album launch - Minister Uuju - GFM24

New album launch - Minister Uuju - GFM24

Today is the D-day we've all been waiting for , the album launch of Gospel music artiste Uuju.

This is going to be a live concert.

please click here to join live ... Stream live on facebook
 

Analyzing the Truth from Misconceptions: Nigeria's Involvement in COP28 - GFm24 News

 Analyzing the Truth from Misconceptions: Nigeria's Involvement in COP28

The presence of Nigerian delegates at the ongoing Climate Summit in Dubai, also known as COP28, has sparked significant controversy and extensive discussions on social media in the past 24 hours. It is crucial to provide accurate information and bring clarity to the situation. Firstly, the summit, denoted as COP, stands for Convention of Parties.

The current gathering in Dubai involves more than 97,000 delegates from over 100 countries globally and marks the 28th event in the series dedicated to addressing climate change and its impacts on a global scale. The previous COP27 took place in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt, last year.

When addressing a pressing global issue like climate change, various entities participate in the summit, including representatives from governments, the private sector, civil society, media, and multilateral institutions. These parties converge to discuss diverse agendas and interests, advocating for mitigating actions.

In the case of Nigeria, as with many other countries, a diverse group of interested parties is present in Dubai. This includes government officials from both the Federal and sub-national governments, business leaders, environmentalists, climate activists, journalists, and representatives from government agencies such as NNPC, the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs, NIMASA, and NDDC.

Numerous youth organizations from Nigeria, particularly those from the Northern and Niger Delta regions most affected by desert encroachment and hydrocarbon activities, are also in attendance. Jonathan Lokpobiri, the President of the Ijaw Youth Council, leads a pan-Ijaw delegation with more than 15 members representing Nigeria. Additionally, over 20 journalists from various media houses in Nigeria are part of the delegation.

It is essential to emphasize that their participation is not a mere excursion, contrary to some misleading representations on social media. Delegates from all countries, encompassing government officials, private sector representatives, media personnel, and civil society groups, attend COP summits and conferences as parties. The number of attendees is registered based on their countries of origin, and this does not imply government sponsorship.

It is worth noting that registering to attend a conference does not guarantee physical presence. Given Nigeria's status as the largest country in Africa with the biggest economy and a substantial stake in climate action due to its extensive extractive economy, it is logical that the number of delegates from Nigeria surpasses that of other African countries.

Among the Nigerian delegates are prominent figures like UBA Chairman Tony Elumelu, BUA Group Chairman Abdul Samad Rabiu, and other billionaires whose businesses actively promote sustainability and climate actions through philanthropy. These business leaders and their accompanying staff, present among the 1,411 delegates from Nigeria, are not funded by the federal government for their trip to Dubai.

"INEC clarifies that IReV is not an election result collation system."

 "INEC clarifies that IReV is not an election result collation system."

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has clarified that its results viewing portal is designed to promote election transparency and is not intended for result collation or transmission. This clarification was provided by Paul Omokore, INEC's Director of ICT, during a presentation titled "The Role of BVAS, IReV for Bayelsa, Kogi, and Imo Governorship Elections" at a workshop for journalists in Akwanga, Nasarawa State.

Omokore advised journalists and the public not to mistake the act of uploading Polling Unit (PU) results to the INEC Result Viewing Portal (IReV) with electronic result transmission. He explained that the INEC Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) is used solely to capture images of Form EC8A, which contains the results at the polling units, and upload these images to IReV for public access. This process does not involve result collection; it merely shares the images of the EC8A forms that presiding officers have signed and stamped with party scores.

He emphasized that the system does not aggregate or collect results; it merely facilitates public access to the original EC8A forms. Omokore also noted that historically, election results in Nigeria were manually transmitted from polling units to collation centers, and the introduction of technology has enhanced the credibility of elections, although challenges remain. INEC is committed to addressing these challenges for the benefit of free and fair elections.

Yahaya Bello seeking third term using APC candidate

Dino Melaye, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in the upcoming Kogi State governorship election, has accused Governor Yahaya Bello of attempting a third term. Melaye alleges that Bello is using the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate, Ahmed Ododo, as a front for this third term bid. He expressed that Ododo, if elected, would serve as a symbolic figurehead, with Bello still wieldingi nfluence behind the scenes. 

Melaye emphasized that the focus should be on his own political party and the offerings for Kogi State, rather than on Yahaya Bello.

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Police kill notorious criminal in Kogi, recover weapons

 The Joint Security Team in Kogi State, Thursday said it has gunned down a notorious criminal Kabir Bala who was responsible for the killing of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) Women Leader, Mrs Salome Abu, woman Leader, burnt to death in her residence at Ochadamu, Ofu council area of the state in the November 2019 Governorship election

The Kogi State Commissioner of Police, CP Akeem Yusuf disclosed this on Thursday at the state Police headquarters in Lokoja, while addressing newsmen.

He said, “It would be recalled that the Kogi State Government in October, 2018 granted pardon in prerogative of mercy as part of rehabilitation to one notorious gang leader named Kabir Bala allas (Okwo) in Ejule, Ofu LGA.

“However, the said Kabir Bals remained an unrepentant criminal with lots of atrocities traced to him which includes; dealing in illegal arms, Kidnappings and killings in the State

“Several cases had been traced to him such as burning alive of Mrs Salome Abu, a PDP wuman Leader in Olu LGA in her residence on November, 2019 at Ochadamu, Killing of two  Igala youths; Umoru Abeh and Unerwu Sule in 20 April, 2022 at Ejule

“He also killed Five Fulani Herders namely: Ibrahim, Haruna and Shuaibu along Alloma Road, Ofu Local Government Area in April, 2022 and Muhammed and Dauda in 3 March, 2023

“Other crimes committed by Kabir Bala and his gang are attack on troops of Nigerian Navy and dispossessed them of four rifles at Alloma village on 4th March, 2022. Though, the Firearms were later returned to the Navy following high-powered intervention.

“Attack on Elisha Aya, Pastor and founder of Kingdom Faith Assembly Ejule on 18″ March, 2022 who later paid 1 Million naira to Bala as levy for establishing a Church, invasion of Egane Fulani settlement, burning 213 huts, rustled 122 cows on 25th December, 2022, assault on the Lord’s Chosen Church, Ejule on 29 January 2023 for disturbing his Hotel with their Service, during which Joy Abuh, a worshipper sustained gunshot injury on her left hand.”

The Commissioner said that he was also responsible for seven kidnappings along Itobe-Anyigba highway from 5 to 28 May 2023.

“Based on the above facts, the decision reached at the State Security Council meeting held on 20th June 2023, is that, the state pardon granted to Kabir Bala in 2018 be revoked immediately, security agencies must go after Kabir Bala and arrest him immediately for prosecution and also all known agents of Kabir Bala in criminal activities must be apprehended to face the law.”

The Commissioner also discosed that the state also took the decision to recover all illegal arms in the possession of criminals in the Eastern Senatorial area for peace to reign in the State.

“Joint Operations should be set up comprising the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Navy, Nigeria Police, DSS, Civil Defence to go after Kabir Bala and his gang to arrest them and recover the arms in their possession

“Today, 22 June 2023, at about 0430hrs in pursuit of the above, the Kabir Bala and his gang members on sighting the Joint Security team opened fire on them and started shooting sporadically.

“The team engaged the hoodlums; the said Kabir Bala was neutralized in the process while other members of his gang escaped with varying degrees of injuries.”

He said items recovered from his premises include, one AK 47 Rifle with three fully loaded magazines, six locally fabricated weapons

and two Phones and Charms

He said  the ongoing onslaught against criminal activities will be sustained to ensure the safety of lives and properties in the State.