FULL LIST: Distinguished Nigerian Politicians Who Are Proprietors Of Private Universities

By Tijani Abdulkareem

On Monday, November 27, the National Universities Commission (NUC) authorized a total of 147 private universities on behalf of the Federal Government of Nigeria.

It has been observed that this figure marks a significant increase from merely three in 1999. These private institutions coexist with universities owned by both the Federal and state governments.

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The surge in private universities is linked to persistent challenges in public universities, including frequent industrial actions, inadequate funding, and deteriorating conditions.

The NUC has disclosed the existence of more than 270 pending requests for establishing new private universities. An analysis from the NUC website, as reported by Punch, indicates that a substantial number of these private universities are established by religious organizations and various past and present politicians.

This article specifically highlights some private universities established by Nigerian politicians:

1. Bells University, Ogun state – Founded by former President Olusegun Obasanjo, with former Governor Ibrahim Dakwambo of Gombe state and former Senator Iyabo Obasanjo-Bello on its board.

2. American University of Nigeria, Yola, Adamawa state – Owned by former Vice President and 2023 Peoples Democratic Party presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar.

3. Amaj University, Kwali, Abuja – Established by former Sokoto State Governor Attahiru Bafarawa, receiving its license in 2023 as one of the youngest private universities in the country.

4. Hensard University, Bayelsa state – Similar to Amaj University, Hensard is a newly licensed private university in Nigeria, founded by former Bayelsa State Governor Seriake Dickson.

5. PAMO University of Medical Sciences, Rivers state – Founded by former Rivers State Governor Peter Odili, it is the first private medical university in Nigeria, with notable figures like former military administrator Gen. Abdulsalam Abubakar and Senator Abu Ibrahim on its board.

6. Baze University, Abuja – Established by one-time Senator and 2023 Labour Party vice-presidential candidate Datti Baba-Ahmed.

7. Eastern Palms University, Imo state – Founded by former Imo State Governor and Senator Rochas Okorocha.

8. Edwin Clark University – Established by former Federal Commissioner of Information and elder statesman Edwin Clark.

9. Sports University, Delta State – Owned by current Senator Ned Nwoko, obtaining its license in 2021 as the first private university of sports.

Video: Jubilation Fills The Air As OAU's Enitan Completes 50 Hours Wash-A-Thon

By Tijani Abdulkareem

The well wishers of Enitan, OAU student who has broken the Guinness world record of the longest hand washing exercise jubilates as she completes the wash-a-thon.

 Recall that the event kicked off on Friday at the Obafemi Awolowo University campus, and Enitan's well-wishers, supporters, and friends came together to celebrate her incredible achievement.

The dedicated student's journey was met with enthusiastic cheers and applause from OAU Students' Union and those who witnessed her commitment to the Wash-A-Thon.

 As Enitan successfully concluded the 50-hour feat, her accomplishment became a cause for joy and pride among the OAU community. 

OAU's Enitan Shines As Wash-A-Thon Clocks 30 Hours

By Tijani Abdulkareem

Subair Enitan, a 200-level Linguistics and African Languages student at Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State, is making waves as her wash-a-thon surpasses the thirty-hour mark. 

Enitan had notified Guinness World Record of her plans in June, with the attempt scheduled for November 24th, 2023.

Supported by the school's Students’ Union leadership, the event unfolded on the Ile-Ife campus, with enthusiastic cheers from fellow students and staff as she aimed to set the record for the longest handwashing exercise.

Enitan's primary objective is to reach 50 hours, and she has currently surpassed the halfway point of this ambitious goal.

Expressing confidence in becoming the title holder, she underlined the motivation drawn from her life experiences. Before officially commencing the wash-a-thon, she shared her optimism about finishing strong as the title holder of the longest hand-washing hours, saying, “My background, the lessons life taught me have been motivating me to embark on this wash-a-thon. My experience is unexplainable but it taught me to be selfless. I am confident that I will reach the set goal of 50 hours of hand wash and, by God’s grace, I will emerge victorious."

Highlighting the preparations for her success, the Student Union President, Abbas Akinremi-Ojo, mentioned the presence of essential elements like an ambulance, lighting, and water.

OAU's management, represented by the Dean of Students Affairs, Professor John Odedire, affirmed the school's unwavering commitment to supporting Enitan in achieving the record.

One Injured As Trucks Collide In Lagos

By Tijani Abdulkareem

In the outward Apapa area of Lagos State on Sunday around 5 pm, an unidentified man suffered injuries in a car crash involving two trucks. 

The collision severely damaged both vehicles, as depicted in a video shared on the official Lagos State Traffic Management Authority's X handle. The footage highlighted one truck with a completely shattered windscreen.

Adebayo Taofiq, the Public Relations Officer of the agency, confirmed the incident in an interview with PUNCH Online. He explained that the accident occurred due to overspeeding, with a truck bearing the registration number T382-LA colliding with another moving truck. 

Fortunately, LASTMA personnel swiftly intervened, rescuing the driver who had sustained injuries to his left leg.

The injured driver was promptly transported to Apapa General Hospital for treatment, assisted by police officers from the Area B Police Command in Apapa. Taofiq emphasized the severity of the leg injury and mentioned that the towing vehicle was promptly deployed by LASTMA personnel to clear the damaged truck from the road.

Carpenter Allegedly Beats Apprentice To Death For Coming Late To Work

By Tijani Abdulkareem

The Delta State Police Command has launched a manhunt for a carpenter named Orunor, who is alleged to have beaten his apprentice, Onome, to death in the Sapele area. 

Onome faced disciplinary action for arriving late to work and reportedly died as a result of the beating. Additionally, Orunor is accused of claiming that the boy stole his ATM card during the incident.

A resident of the area, speaking anonymously, shared that Onome, upon returning home after work, complained to his parents about not feeling well and recounted the events at his workplace.

 The parents intended to take him to the hospital for a checkup, but before this could happen, Onome tragically passed away. 

Upon learning of the apprentice's death, Orunor fled, and the workshop has since been locked.

The Police Public Relations Officer, Bright Edafe, confirmed that a manhunt has been initiated to apprehend the carpenter. 

"The carpenter is currently at large, and the police are making efforts to arrest him," he stated.

Tragedy As Wife Kills Husband switch Pestle

By Tijani Abdulkareem

A housewife identified as Biba Mohammed has been paraded by the Gombe State Police Command over the murder of her husband.

 The incident occurred in Barunde quarters of the metropolis.

The state Public Relations Officer ASP Mahid Abubakar, while parading the suspect on Friday, stated that the police received a distress call from a resident of the area reporting a suspected homicide case committed in his neighborhood.

 According to Abubakar, Mohammed Maliki was discovered lying helplessly when detectives from the Lowcost Division dispatched to the scene arrived.

He added that, upon interrogation, the housewife confessed to killing her husband. 

The tragic event unfolded in Barunde quarters, highlighting the somber reality of the situation.

Markazud Da'awah To Orientate Over 200 New Members On Sunday

By Tijani Abdulkareem 

The Markazud Dawah Wath Thaqoofahtil Islamiyyah, Ile Ife Unit, Osun State has decided to hold an orientation program, on Sunday for over 200 new members.

This was revealed to our correspondent in a statement released by Markazud Dawah Wath Thaqoofahtil Islamiyyah and signed by the coordinator, Mr Badrudeen Ajibola 

The orientation program is meant to enable the newly admitted students discover the ins and outs of the campus life and make them ready for the academic journey they are about to embark on.

Coordinator Badrudeen Ajibola has officially announced that the event will unfold at Poplat Central Mosque, Ede Road, Ile-Ife, Osun, commencing at 10 am on Sunday, November 19th, 2023

He emphasized that the orientation program will take place at Poplat Central Mosque, Ede Road, Ile-Ife, Osun. Additionally, he highlighted that the event will feature exciting side attractions, such as GB calculation, package showcases, games, personality profiling, continuous counseling, and much more.

The objective of the orientation program is to guide newly admitted students through the nuances of campus life, equipping them for the academic journey that lies ahead. 

Adding a touch of intellectual prowess to the occasion, the renowned Ustaz Idris Adebisi, an erudite scholar, will grace the event as the invited lecturer. He will delve into the theme "Balancing Between Spirituality and Academics," promising a thought-provoking and  insightful experience for all attendee.

ASUU Declares Nationwide Strike

The President of ASUU, Prof Emmanuel Osodeke, has instructed all members to join the nationwide strike declared by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC). 

This directive was communicated on Monday evening through a letter addressed to all union zonal coordinators and branch chairpersons.

In the letter, Prof Osodeke stated, “The Nigeria Labour Congress, at a Joint National Executive Council (NEC) of NLC and TUC, directed all affiliate Unions to commence withdrawal of services with effect from 12:00 midnight today, 13th November 2023. As an affiliate of NLC, all members of our union are hereby directed to join this action of NLC to protect the interest of Nigerian workers and the leadership of the union.”

He further emphasized the importance of unity, urging zonal coordinators and branch chairpersons to immediately mobilize union members to actively participate in the strike. The message concluded with the rallying cry, "A people united cannot be defeated."

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ELECTORAL MALPRACTICE: INEC Suspends Election In Nine Wards

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has suspended elections in nine wards in Kogi State due to reported cases of electoral malpractice.

The nine wards affected are Ogori/Magongo Local Governemennt Area of the state. They are Eni, Okibo, Okesi, Ileteju, Aiyeromi, Ugugu, Obinoyin, Obatgben and Oturu.

In a statement released by Mohammed Kudu Haruna, the National Commissioner & Member, Information and Voter Education Committee on Saturday night.

“The Commission has received reports from our officials in Kogi State on incidences of electoral malpractices, particularly the incident of result sheets completed before voting.

“Reports indicate that the incidents occurred in Adavi, Ajaokuta, Ogori/Magongo, Okehi and Okene Local Government Areas. The most serious incidents occurred in Ogori/Magongo, affecting nine of 10 Registration Areas.

“This is entirely unacceptable. Any result not emanating from the Commission’s process in the Polling Units will not be accepted,” the statement partly read.

It added, “The Commission is determined not to reward bad behaviour. Consequently, the election in the nine Wards in Ogori/Magongo LGA (Eni, Okibo, Okesi, Ileteju, Aiyeromi, Ugugu, Obinoyin, Obatgben and Oturu) is at this moment suspended. 

The incidences in the other Local Government Areas are being thoroughly investigated, and the outcome, including the way forward, will be announced in the next 24 hours.

The commission, however, assured voters in Kogi State that their votes are protected, and their wishes will be respected.

Investigation Begins As OAU Lecturer Assaults Student

The management of Obafemi Awolowo University has initiated an investigation into an altercation involving a male student and a lecturer of the university.

The Student, known as Gift, a 200-level student was said to have mistaken the class for the one he was to attend and upon realising this, he quickly made attempts to exit the class when the lecturer called him back.

A student, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the lecturer engaged the student in an argument, which eventually degenerated into a scuffle.

“He thought the class was meant for him as well. When he saw that the faces in the class were strange, he quickly dashed out. The lecturer then called him back. After a while, we discovered that the lecturer invited the security personnel to take the student. He also dragged the student’s phone,” the source said.

The Students' Union spokesperson, Elijah Omisore, strongly condemned the incident and demanded the prosecution of the lecturer. The union narrated the incident in a statement, stating that Gift had mistakenly entered the class and was later assaulted by Dr. Ariyo.

The university's Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Olarewaju, also condemned the lecturer's actions and stated that an administrative probe had been initiated. 

The Vice-Chancellor expressed his displeasure with the incident and called for calm among the students while the university investigates the matter. The university aims to make its findings known after the investigation, and they have engaged the relevant faculty and department heads.

BEAKING: Longest Cooking Marathon Record Broken As Irish Chef Dethrones Hilda Baci

Irish chef Alan Fisher, the owner and chef of a restaurant in Japan, has dethroned Nigerian chef Hilda Baci as the longest cooking marathon titleholder. 

Fisher achieved this remarkable feat by breaking two Guinness World Records in the culinary world. 

He first secured the record for the longest cooking marathon (individual), with an impressive time of 119 hours and 57 minutes, surpassing Hilda Baci's previous record by more than 24 hours. 

In addition, Alan also claimed the title for the longest baking marathon (individual), accomplishing a time of 47 hours and 21 minutes, surpassing the previous record held by Wendy Sandner from the USA, who had a time of 31 hours and 16 minutes.

 It's worth mentioning that Hilda Baci had been officially declared the Guinness World Record holder for the longest cooking marathon on Tuesday, June 13.

MOHBAD: Court Grants Naira Marley, Sam Larry bail

A Magistrate's Court in Yaba, on Monday, granted bail to the singer Azeez Fashola, popularly known as Naira Marley, and Lagos socialite Balogun Eletu, who goes by Sam Larry. The bail was set at N20 million, with three responsible sureties.

Naira Marley, Sam Larry, and two others had been arraigned and detained on October 6 in connection with their alleged involvement in the circumstances surrounding the death of the musician Ilerioluwa Aloba, also known as Mohbad.

Magistrate Adeola Olatunbosun instructed the defendants to surrender their passports and mandated that they must report weekly to the State Criminal Investigation Department at Panti.

In her ruling, Olatunbosun stressed that no one should attempt to contact her directly regarding the case, warning that any such attempts would be documented and potentially disclosed during open court proceedings.

One child killed and two wounded every ten minutes, says Gaza Health Ministry

A child is killed and two others injured every 10 minutes in Gaza, according to the enclave's Health Ministry.

About 9,500 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza since October 7, most of whom are women and children.

More than 1,000 children are also trapped under the rubble of destroyed buildings, the Health Ministry said earlier this week.

The UN's Children Fund has said Gaza is a "graveyard" for thousands of children.

Credit: The national news

Israeli Military Releases New Photographs Of Troops In Gaza

The Israeli military has released new photographs of its troops in the Gaza Strip during their ongoing ground invasion. 

These images depict Israeli tanks, soldiers positioned near the coast, and ground forces navigating through heavily damaged streets.

 The military has surrounded Gaza city and urged civilians to relocate to the south. 

Meanwhile, airstrikes persist throughout the region, targeting crowded refugee camps and hospitals where thousands of individuals have sought shelter.

Love Poem: Sweet Heart, Shower Me With An Eternal Flame Of Love

Remember the stars were made to light the sky

Our love was made too bright

Like the sun was made to shine 

My love for you will never dry.

Hold me by the hand,

Reassure me of the good old times,

Walk me through the darkest night

To strengthen our love at large.

We shouldn’t be tired at all,

We should get it fired all cost,

Our love should keep spreading,

Just like wildfire.

For our love will never transform

From sweet to vile

Leaving behind only warmest smile,

That will forever make us glad.

EFCC Denies Receiving $107,000 From Fraudster

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) of Nigeria has refuted allegations that it accepted a $107,000 bribe to compromise the alleged fraud case involving Ezekiel Joseph Oyo. 

This denial was conveyed through a statement issued by Dele Oyewale, the Head of EFCC Media and Publicity, on Friday. The statement argues that it is irrational to assert that the EFCC received $107,000 from Joseph Oyo, who was accused of profiting $50,000 from fraudulent activities.

According to the statement, Oyo had jumped bail, and efforts are underway to bring him to trial for money laundering offenses. It explains that the EFCC's Abuja Zonal Command arrested Ezekiel Joseph Oyo on April 5, 2023, in the Life Camp area of Abuja, based on intelligence about his suspected involvement in internet fraud, online romance scams, and money laundering. Oyo was introduced to these fraudulent activities through his friend, Bruno, based in Germany. He used a wallet address with the username "Hubert.elwood@outlook.com" to conduct his illicit business.

Through this wallet address, Oyo received a total of $3,982,260.91 in fraudulent transactions from Remitano, a digital company based in Seychelles, on March 3, 2023. He profited $50,000 from this fraudulent bitcoin business. After his arrest, investigators at the Abuja Zonal Command granted him administrative bail with two sureties provided by him. It took his sureties three weeks to meet the bail conditions, and Oyo was released after these conditions were satisfied.

The statement clarifies that investigators recovered a total of $27,000 from Oyo and duly documented this recovery. It emphasizes that it is untrue and baseless to attribute the alleged $107,000 bribe to EFCC investigators. The statement questions how a suspect who had gained $50,000 from his fraudulent transactions could offer $107,000 as a bribe. It dismisses the allegations against the investigators as fabricated and unfounded and affirms that all items recovered from Oyo, including a Mercedes Benz C43 AMG, are in the custody of the Commission.

Police Apprehends Two Individuals For Stealing Dangote Truck

The Ogun State Police Command Has Apprehended Two Individuals For Allegedly Stealing Truck Owned By Dangote Cement Factory In Ibese.

Omolola Odutola, the Ogun State Police Public Relations Officer, disclosed this information in a statement provided to the media.

The suspects involved in the theft are Lawal and Mohammed Ndatotu. According to Odutola, the truck driver, who worked in Dangote Cement's transport department in Ibese, reported that his truck, bearing registration number KPF 237 XA, was stolen while he had left his two assistants, Mohammed Lawal and Ismail, inside the vehicle.

Upon his return to the parking area on October 29, 2023, the driver found that his truck was missing, and the two assistants had fled. Lawal and Mohammed Ndatotu were subsequently tracked down and arrested in Ogbere by the Ogbere Divisional Police Officer.

The two suspects have admitted to stealing the vehicle from its parked location. The police are now conducting an investigation into the matter and taking appropriate legal actions.

Messi To Lose UEFA Best Player Award

In a recent announcement, the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) has revealed a new partnership with Ballon d'Or to jointly organize an awards ceremony beginning in 2024. 

This collaboration effectively ends the tradition of UEFA's annual award, which means that Lionel Messi will no longer have the opportunity to win the UEFA Best Player of the Year award.

UEFA's official statement regarding this partnership with Groupe Amaury, the owner of media companies France Football and L'Équipe, reads as follows:

"UEFA and Groupe Amaury, owner of media companies France Football and L’Équipe, have today announced a partnership to co-organise the renowned Ballon d'Or® from 2024. 

Together, UEFA and Groupe Amaury aim to enhance the stature and global reach of the awards while fostering a sense of unity and collaboration within the football community."

As part of this agreement, Groupe Amaury will retain ownership of the Ballon d'Or® brand and continue to oversee the existing voting system, maintaining its independence. UEFA's role in this partnership will involve leveraging its football expertise, managing global commercial rights, and organizing the annual awards gala.

The implications of this collaboration are significant, as it signals the end of the UEFA Best Player of the Year award, impacting players like Lionel Messi who previously competed for this prestigious title.

PDP Sues Tinubu, Senate To Court

The Peoples Democratic Party, Ikwa Ibom State Has Charged President Bola Tinubu To Court For Allegedly appointing Etekamba Umeron As The State's Resident Electoral Commissional

In their originating summons, which were filed on Tuesday, the complainants are requesting the court to declare that Umoren is not qualified to be appointed as the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) since he is a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC). To support their claim, they have attached colored photographs of Umoren participating in APC campaign activities for the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio.

The complainants argue that the Constitution, as the supreme law, must be strictly followed when determining how the President carries out his function under Section 154(3) and who qualifies to be appointed as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) REC for Akwa Ibom and every state in Nigeria. They assert that the unconstitutional appointment of partisan officers into INEC is the starting point for election rigging, a significant problem in Nigeria's democracy. They believe this practice should be resisted for the benefit of all citizens.

The court is also asked to declare Umoren's appointment illegal, null, and void, particularly noting that Tinubu failed to consult with the Council of State before making the appointment on October 25, 2023.

Among other requests, the complainants seek a declaration that Tinubu cannot present Umoren to the Senate for confirmation as REC for Akwa Ibom. They also seek a declaration that Umoren's appointment as REC is unlawful, illegal, unconstitutional, null and void from the beginning and of no effect.

• The complainants further request a perpetual injunction to prevent Tinubu from presenting Umoren to the Senate as REC, as well as an injunction to stop the Senate from confirming Umoren for this position. They also seek an injunction to prevent Umoren from acting, assuming office, or portraying himself as the REC for Akwa Ibom.

Ode To Maama By Aishat Elusogbon

It's not just the fact that you gave me birth 

Or you let me you womb without a month's rent.

It's more than the fact that you took care of me 

Or trained me to be a Mother-to-be 

It also surpasses the Deen you taught me 

Which turned out to be the most important thing. 

It's just the fact that you did all these 

And still managed to be uniquely unique 

I won't bother to describe your amazing self 

Because words would not be of much help.

But with this short piece, I would have you know 

That my love for you will never cease to grow.

OAU Management Explains How They Secured the Release Of 59 OAU Students From EFCC Custody

The Management of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, has revealed that it successfully secured the release of 59 out of the 69 students who were apprehended by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). These students were detained after a late-night raid on off-campus hostels earlier in the week.

In an official statement issued on Thursday by the University's Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Olarewaju, it was explained that, aside from parents and guardians who worked to secure the release of their children and wards, the university's administration played a significant role in ensuring the freedom of the remaining students.

The Vice Chancellor of the University, Professor Adebayo Simeon BAMIRE, expressed gratitude to the EFCC for swiftly processing and releasing the students within a mere twenty-four hours. He also urged the EFCC to collaborate with higher education institutions to organize workshops across different faculties, educating students about the perils of financial crimes and cybercriminal activities.

Furthermore, the Vice Chancellor appealed to the students who endured the ordeal to put it behind them and move forward with their lives. He commended their peers who supported the affected students, exemplifying unity and peaceful coexistence without resorting to violence or vandalism.

Unfortunately, Our Supposed Parents, In loco Parentis, Have Failed To Fulfill Their Parental Roles By Taiwo Emmanuel (Network),NANS JCC Osun

Anyone can have a child and call themselves "parents," but the true essence of parenthood lies in placing the interests of their children above their own selfish desires and wants.

When I first gained admission to this prestigious campus, I was filled with excitement and joy. I was particularly inspired by the eloquent words of the then-University Vice Chancellor, Prof. Eyitope Ogunbodede, who presented himself as our parental figure. However, with time, I came to realize that these words from the OAU administration were merely rhetoric, designed to create a fleeting spectacle and one of the tactics used to disempower students. These same tactics are now being employed by the current Vice Chancellor, who is an ally of Ogunbodede and a former deputy Vice Chancellor. The current VC has often claimed to be our father and protector of our interests, but his actions consistently contradict his professions.

Numerous events have unfolded, and those who professed to be our parents have, in fact, undermined our interests. It raises questions about what kind of parent nurtures their children in such a manner.

When students stand up for just causes, such as protesting against exorbitant school fees and the lack of basic necessities like water, the university's administration is quick to condemn such actions. However, when students' lives are in jeopardy, they remain eerily silent and passive.

The height of this hypocrisy by the administration occurred yesterday when uniformed individuals, commonly known as EFCC, invaded hostels in Ife and abducted 69 OAU students at around 2 a.m. One would expect those who claimed to be our parents to take immediate action and secure the release of these students from their captors. Unfortunately, as of now, not a single statement has been issued by them.

The fact that 69 students under their care were kidnapped, and they show no urgency or concern, is bewildering. These students, who should ideally have on-campus accommodation, are forced to rent apartments off-campus because the OAU management prioritizes less significant matters over providing sufficient school hostels to ease the students' burdens. One would ordinarily anticipate the management to protect these students, but instead, they seem to support injustices against them.

When we protested against the exorbitant school fees, the administration easily threatened to disband the union and emotionally manipulated the students. Yet, they remained silent as students under their care were kidnapped.

We have demonstrated to the management that in our unity there is strength, and we can achieve all things without the school management. Today's victory is a testament to this, despite their reluctance to see us emancipated. The students took charge of the situation and mobilized, and the results were fruitful.

I commend every OAU student who played a role in securing the release of our fellow students abducted by EFCC. As a fellow student, I urge you all to remain vigilant about your security, as our so-called parents have disavowed us and abandoned their parental responsibilities.

Breaking: EFCC Releases OAU Students

 

The Economic Financial Crimes Commission has released 58 out of 69 students of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State.

Recall that the students were arrested by the EFCC earlier on Wednesday in a midnight raid on hostels outside the campus.

However, the Students Union President of OAU, Abbas Akinremi in a statement signed by him confirmed that 58 students have been released.

Also, confirming the release at 8:51pm on Wednesday, the National Director of Security and Safety, of the National Association Of University Students, Eruobami Ayobami, said, “58 students have been released.”

BREAKING: OAU Arrest Saga - EFCC Bans Night Operation Nation Wide

 

The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Mr. Ola Olukoyede has directed that sting operations at night time be stopped in all the commands of the EFCC.

He gave the directive in Abuja on Wednesday, in reaction to the arrest of 69 students of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife by operatives of the Ibadan Zonal of the Commission in Ile-Ife, Osun State.

Recall that the students were arrested by the EFCC earlier on Wednesday in a midnight raid on hostels outside the campus.

However, the Students Union President of OAU, Abbas Akinremi in a statement signed by him confirmed that 58 students have been released.

However, in a statement on the verified social media handle of EFCC said, “In line with the newly-reviewed procedures on arrest and bail of suspects by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, the Executive Chairman of the Commission, Mr. Ola Olukoyede has directed that sting operations at night time be stopped in all the Commands of the EFCC.

“He gave the directive in Abuja on Wednesday, November 1, 2023 in reaction to the arrest of 69 suspected internet fraudsters by operatives of the Ibadan Zonal of the Commission in Ile-Ife, Osun State.

“Already, many of the suspects duly profiled by the Command have been released, while profiling of suspects yet un-released will be completed, without further delay.

“The Commission wishes to assure the public that it will not relent in its adherence to the rule of law, in the exercise of its mandate.”

Israeli Air Strike Kills Seven On Refugee Camp

 

According to Hamas, seven captives, including three individuals with foreign passports, were killed in an Israeli air strike on Jabaliya, the largest refugee camp in Gaza. 

Additionally, the armed wing of Hamas, al-Qassam Brigades, claimed that nearly 50 Israeli captives were killed during Israeli bombing campaigns.

 However, these figures have not been confirmed by Israeli authorities. Currently, there are 240 captives in Gaza, consisting of Israelis, foreigners, and dual nationals, as reported by Israel's army. 

Israeli authorities have also noted that four women have been released, and an Israeli soldier was freed during a ground operation.

Finally!!! EFCC discloses the motive behind the arrest of 70 OAU students

 

By Tijani Abdulkareem 

In the late hours of the night, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) conducted a raid on hostels housing Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) students who resided off-campus. The officials targeted the Fine Touch and Superb hostels located in Oduduwa Estate, Ile Ife.

In response to this incident, members of the OAU Students Union swiftly organized a protest at the EFCC Office in Ibadan to express their dissatisfaction with the arrests.

Subsequently, in the afternoon, the EFCC provided an explanation for the reasons behind the students' arrests. 

According to a statement from the EFCC Ibadan Zonal Command, they arrested 69 individuals suspected of involvement in internet fraud in the Oduduwa Estate area of Ile-Ife, Osun State, based on credible intelligence regarding their alleged fraudulent internet activities.

The individuals apprehended include Dankuwo Eniola Erioluwa, Mustapha Monsuru Oluwanisola, Adeyeye Timilehin Ebenezer, Toromade Hammed Adedeji, Busari Abdulazeez Ayodeji, Adeleye Olumuyiwa Emmanuel, Oluwasakin Moyosore Favour, Olubini Pere Michael, Oluwadara Emmanuel Benny, Gbadamosi Okikola Omotola, Okusipe Tobiloba Paul, Nnekwelugo Enaemeka, Aghwaritoma Wisdom, Adesina Gbolahan Khalid, and Micheal Olugoke Oluwaseun, among others.

The EFCC disclosed that they recovered various items, including exotic cars, 190 mobile phones, and 40 laptops during the operation. The suspects have cooperated with the EFCC and will face legal charges once the investigations are concluded.

Ten Compelling Reasons Why You Must Consider Keeping A Cat As pet

 

Certainly, here are ten reasons why many people choose to keep cats as pets:

1. Companionship: Cats make wonderful companions and can provide emotional support and comfort to their owners.

2. Low Maintenance: Cats are generally low-maintenance pets compared to some other animals. They don't require constant attention and can be independent.

3. Stress Reduction: The act of petting a cat can reduce stress and promote relaxation.

4. Entertainment: Cats can be highly entertaining with their playful behavior, hunting instincts, and quirky personalities.

5. Rodent Control: Many cats are natural hunters and can help keep your home free of unwanted pests like mice and insects.

6. Allergen Reduction: Contrary to popular belief, owning a cat may help reduce allergies and asthma in children.

7. Health Benefits: Studies suggest that having a cat can lead to lower blood pressure and a reduced risk of heart attack and stroke.

8. Warmth and Comfort: Cats are known for their warmth, and having a cat on your lap can be incredibly comforting.

9. Independence: Cats are self-sufficient animals, making them great for people with busy lifestyles.

10. Unconditional Love: Despite their independent nature, cats can form strong bonds with their owners and provide unconditional love.

Keep in mind that while these are compelling reasons to have a cat as a pet, it's important to be a responsible owner and provide proper care, attention, and a safe environment for your feline friend.

Mixed Reactions As Lagos Shuts Down 34 Companies

 

Lagos State Government has taken action against 34 companies operating within the state for allegedly failing to remit their employees' personal income tax and other taxes, resulting in a total amount of N356.12 million in unremitted funds.

 The Director of Legal Services at the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS), Seyi Alade, confirmed this during a state-wide tax law enforcement exercise. These companies, which also include those in the hospitality sector, were accused of deducting personal income taxes from their employees' salaries and charging consumption taxes on goods and services but unlawfully withholding these payments for their own use.

Here is the full list of the companies that have been shut down:

1. NTS Nigeria Ltd

2. Med-In Hospital & Pharma Services Ltd

3. Danvic Petroleum Int’l Ltd

4. Business Intelligence Technology

5. Avaya Nigeria Ltd

6. Gladstone Tech Ltd

7. Courier Plus Services Ltd

8. Kurioucity Ltd

9. Medilag Ventures Ltd

10. Future Oilfields

11. Seven Six and Ten Limited

12. Blitz Suites and Hotel

13. Offshoroomz Hotel

14. God’s Grace Hotel

15. De Orange Place Ltd

16. De Santos Hotel

17. Kentade Hotel Limited

18. Chamcee

19. Chelsea Suites

20. Falode Hotels

21. High Climax Hotel

22. Chez Moi Apartment

23. Excellence Hotel

24. Bereans Venture (Tantalizer Ebute Metta)

25. La Avril Hotel and Suites

26. De Orange Place Ltd

27. Milaco Guest House

28. New World Inn

29. Model Motels Ltd

30. Rely Maritime Ltd

31. 4 Seasons Hotel

32. Dream Land Hotel

33. North Restaurant and Lounge

34. Jade Palace Chinese Restaurant.

The shutdown of these companies is part of the government's efforts to ensure tax compliance and revenue generation.