In a bold move to tackle illegal mining activities, the Federal Government has seized 10 trucks and charged suspects for illegal possession and transportation of minerals. This crackdown is part of the Honourable Minister of Solid Minerals’ 7-point agenda to revitalize and sanitize the mining sector.
Reports indicate that Mining Marshals from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps apprehended 10 suspects along the Itobe-Ajokuta Road in Kogi State, found with minerals lacking necessary documentation, contravening the Minerals and Mining Act 2007 and Mining Regulations, 2011.
Investigations revealed that these individuals procured minerals from illegal miners without proper authorization, mining titles, or payment of royalties.
The suspects are facing legal charges, while directors of implicated companies have been summoned for interrogation, with appropriate legal actions to follow.
Commander of the Mining Marshals, ACC Attah John Onoja, has pledged to intensify operations to ensure full compliance with mining laws and regulations, stressing the importance of collective support from stakeholders to reinforce the Minister’s efforts in sanitizing the Nigerian mining sector.
This development marks a significant step toward restoring order in the nation’s mining industry, promoting adherence to legal frameworks, and safeguarding responsible exploitation of mineral resources.
The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has highlighted the pressing issues contributing to the brain drain and healthcare crisis in Nigeria.
At a press conference in Abuja, NMA President Dr. Bala Audu addressed the key factors, including poor remuneration, inadequate infrastructure, protracted insecurity, low standard of living, and insufficient funding.
The 64th Annual General Conference and Delegates Meeting (AGC/DM) in Calabar observed a catastrophic shortage of Human Resource for Health (HRH) due to the alarming rate of migration of healthcare workers overseas, often referred to as the “Japan Syndrome.”
The conference also discussed the complex and sensitive nature of euthanasia in medical practice, noting the lack of a clear global consensus on the subject.
The AGC/DM expressed deep concern over the prevailing economic crisis in Nigeria, including the surge in consumer prices, exchange rate instability, and an increase in multi-dimensionally poor Nigerians, surpassing 100 million according to the World Bank.
The conference highlighted the obliteration of the middle class, heightened hunger and suffering, and violent assaults and kidnappings of healthcare workers.
The escalating rate of kidnappings, banditry, armed robbery, and killings in Nigeria was described as alarming, instilling fear among citizens.
The conference lamented the exit of pharmaceutical giants from Nigeria due to challenging business environments, leading to drug shortages, increased drug prices, and job losses.
The AGC/DM emphasized the impact of quackery in the healthcare sector, including complications with deadly outcomes, and called for urgent government intervention to prioritize healthcare funding.
The conference urged the government to implement robust palliatives and social intervention strategies to alleviate hunger and economic hardships, increase efforts to address security lapses, and create a friendly business environment to mitigate the impact of pharmaceutical and multinational companies’ exodus.
A tragic confrontation between scavengers (known as “baban bola”) and residents of Byazhin community in Kubwa, Bwari Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has resulted in the heartbreaking loss of three lives – two women and a young boy.
The conflict began when a scavenger attempted to steal a woman’s pot of soup, leading to a violent attack by the scavenger and his accomplices.
Despite police intervention, no arrests were made, and tension remains high in the area.
Ms. Adams recounted the chaos that ensued, with the community thrown into turmoil as the violence escalated. Despite police intervention to restore order, no arrests were made, and tension remains high in the area.
Another resident, speaking anonymously, confirmed the deaths but expressed uncertainty about the cause of the clash. The incident has led to the closure of schools and shops in the area, as parents rush to retrieve their children and businesses remain shuttered.
Efforts to contact the FCT Police Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, were unsuccessful at the time of filing this report, as her phone remained unreachable.
The tragic incident underscores the urgent need for measures to address violence and insecurity in the community, as residents mourn the loss of innocent lives.
In a move poised to reshape Nigeria’s mining landscape, the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development unveiled the Nigerian Minerals Resource Decision Support System (NMDSS) on Tuesday, May 14, 2024.
This pioneering technology marks a significant milestone in the industry’s development, offering a powerful tool for investors, policymakers, and other stakeholders to make informed decisions and drive growth.”
Dr. Oladele Alake, Minister of Solid Minerals Development, addressed a distinguished audience comprising key stakeholders and international investors, underscoring the pivotal role of the occasion within President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Highlighting the NMDSS’s importance to economic growth and development, Dr. Alake emphasized its alignment with the administration’s objectives.
He stressed the necessity of international competitiveness and attracting foreign direct investment to propel Nigeria’s mining sector forward.
Describing the NMDSS as a game changer, Dr. Alake hailed it as the most investor-friendly tool ever introduced to the industry.
The system, he explained, revolutionizes investment prospecting by providing easy access to crucial data on geology, hydrology, and urban geography of mining sites, thereby eliminating the need for costly physical visits.
Dr. Alake elaborated on the software’s features, emphasizing its role in streamlining business processes and easing investor concerns such as labor availability, water sources, and transportation infrastructure.
He expressed confidence that the NMDSS would showcase the administration’s commitment to investment promotion and accelerate business setup in the mining sector.
In a goodwill message, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, Minister of Interior, expressed profound gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his steadfast dedication to the Solid Minerals sector.
He commended the President’s decisive actions and bold reforms, citing them as evidence of genuine commitment to economic diversification.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo underscored the unprecedented significance of President Tinubu’s recognition of Solid Minerals as a cornerstone of diversification, expressing confidence in Nigeria’s ability to replicate the successes of countries like Saudi Arabia.
He pledged the Ministry of Interior’s full support for the initiative and urged stakeholders to seize the moment for prospective investments.
Earlier, Engr. Salim Salam welcomed attendees and highlighted the event’s historic significance in realizing President Tinubu’s agenda.
He praised the strides made in addressing sectoral challenges, particularly in geoscience data generation, and expressed optimism for a vibrant and diversified Nigerian economy anchored by a robust Solid Minerals sector.
The Honourable Minister of Defence, H.E. Muhammed Badaru, CON, has urged the National Space Defence Administration to harness the power of emerging technologies to build a more secure and prosperous future for the nation and its people. This, he said, will enable the nation to confront the challenges of tomorrow with confidence and resilience.
This was contained in a statement signed by Henshaw Ogubike Director (Information and Public Relations) ministry of Defence.
Speaking as a special guest of honour during the opening of a two-day symposium on Defence Space Administration in Abuja, Badaru emphasized the need for the nation’s security architecture to leverage on emerging technologies to counter new and sophisticated threats, ranging from cyber-attacks to space-based challenges.
“In today’s rapidly evolving world, where technological advancements are reshaping the landscape of national security, we must adapt and innovate to protect our defence infrastructure effectively,” the Minister said. “It is crucial to stay ahead of the curve and harness the power of emerging technologies to fortify our defence and ensure the security of our nation.”
The Minister commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his continued support in providing an enabling environment for the Nigerian Armed Forces to operate effectively and efficiently. He reiterated that technology plays a vital role in the fight against insecurity, and therefore, the nation’s security architecture must leverage and strengthen its defence infrastructure and safeguard the nation by deploying new technologies.
During the event, the Minister and other dignitaries were conducted on a tour of the exhibition stands by the Chief of Defence Space Administration, Air Vice Marshal AA Shinkafi, to showcase various military equipment produced by the Administration on display.
Pastor Jide Akiode, Regional Pastor of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Region 10, delivered a compelling sermon at the 70th birthday celebration of Pastor Ademola Adeyinka held at RCCG Central Parish in Wuse, Zone 2, Abuja.
His message, titled “He Deserves It,” emphasized the importance of recognizing God’s mercy as the foundation of all personal achievements and milestones.
“Often, we mistakenly believe we deserve everything we have. But it is not by our own merit; it is by the mercy of God,” Pastor Jide explained, citing conversations with Daddy GO. He highlighted the role of divine grace in survival and health, particularly referencing the attendees who had survived since the 1950s.
Pastor Jide utilized biblical passages, such as 2nd Samuel and Psalm 119:89, to underscore the consistency and integrity of God’s presence in everyday life. “His consistency is evident in our lives. The fact that you are healthy at 70 is a testament to God’s faithfulness,” he added.
The sermon also touched on the divine influence in marital and family relationships, drawing parallels with biblical figures like Joseph to illustrate God’s unwavering support and protection, detailed through Psalm 121 and 89:13.
As the service proceeded, the celebrant, Pastor Ademola Adeyinka, expressed profound gratitude for the blessings of a faithful marriage, wonderful children, and the gift of salvation.
Alongside his wife, Dr. Modupe Adeyinka, he has spearheaded The King’s Medical Mission International since 2011, an initiative providing essential medical care to remote and underserved communities. “Thousands of people have received ministry from this group, and their testimonies are uplifting and inspiring,” Pastor Adeyinka noted.
Dr. Mrs. Modupe Adeyinka reflected on her marriage, saying, “Marrying him was always a decision God helped me to make, and I would do it a million times over.” She praised her husband’s enduring faith and passion, which she believes sets a powerful example for younger generations.
Their daughter, Ademola Adeyinka, shared personal reflections on her father’s impact, emphasizing his unconditional love and the high standards of care and respect he has instilled in her. “He is my first love and my gist partner. My daddy is ready to move the earth if he could, just to make my mummy happy,” she said.
The event, which included high-profile guests such as senator and senior pastors from the Redeemed Christian Church of God, family members and well wishers.
The event culminated in an exuberant African praise session, celebrating Pastor Adeyinka’s life and contributions, and filling the air with vibrant energy and heartfelt appreciation.
This piece is to provide highlights to the litigation regarding the alleged organ harvesting case brought by National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Person, NAPTIP, against Alliance Hospital before Justice Kezziah Ogbonnaya of the Federal Capital Territory High Court.
During the first day of the trial regarding the organ trafficking case, NAPTIP introduced its primary witness, Oluwatobi Saliman, who was questioned by NAPTIP’s legal representative, Hassan Tahir. In the court session held on Monday, Saliman, who is also a donor, detailed the process of signing pertinent documents prior to the surgery. He recounted visiting the Federal High Court in Abuja to sign a declaration of age, and upon returning to the hospital, he confirmed that he signed a document stating that his kidney donation was voluntary and not for financial gain, emphasizing that the recipient was a family member.
He stated that following the surgery, he contacted Emmanuel Olorunlaye (also known as Mayor), the individual who escorted him to the hospital, and requested for the remaining balance of N1 million from him as he had spent the little funds previously provided.
During the cross-examination, the defense counsel, Afam Osigwe, SAN, inquired whether the man had signed an affidavit and could verify that he declared himself to be 18 years old in the affidavit at the time of signing. The man affirmed this.
This raised significant inconsistencies in his age, as he informed the court that he was 16 years old, but claimed to be 17 in his sworn affadivit in the civil case In regards to his connection with the recipient, the senior attorney sought confirmation from him whether the patient, Egbuson Samson, to whom he graciously donated his kidney, was a blood relative, as captured in the consent form. Additionally, he sought confirmation that the decision to donate his kidney was made of his own volition. The individual affirmed that he executed an affidavit at the high court using a light pen, and also signed the necessary consent forms prior to the surgical procedure.
During his testimony, he mentioned that after the surgery he journeyed to Ibadan; however, in a sworn statement to NAPTIP, he indicated that he traveled to Lagos. The witness unequivocally stated that at no point was he coerced or pressured by any individual to donate his kidney. He emphasized that the decision to undergo the organ donation procedure was entirely voluntary and made of his own free will.
Day Two
On the second day of the hearing, NAPTIP introduced its second witness, Yahaya Musa, who was questioned by Hassan Tahir, legal counsel for NAPTIP. Musa testified that he encountered Abdul in his community, who informed him of the opportunity to sell his kidney for One Million Naira at Alliance Hospital. Following his independent verification of the information, he visited the hospital and liaised with an individual named Mayor, who he stated guided him through the process. Musa claimed that he is 16 years old during his testimony. He also affirmed that he signed the necessary consent form and affidavit at the Federal High Court.
During the rigorous cross-examination conducted by Afam Osigwe, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), various inconsistencies were highlighted in the witness’s oral testimony, his sworn affidavit at civil matter and his affidavit at the court. One such inconsistency pertained to his age; he claimed to be 16 years old in court, stating he was 17 years in the sworn affidavit, and asserted in his age declaration that he was 18 years old.
The defense counsel, who was keen on ensuring coherence in the witness’s accounts, also identified additional discrepancies. For instance, in his sworn affidavit of a civil matter, the witness alleged that Abdul had fled when the police and his father attempted to apprehend him, whereas during his oral testimony, he claimed that Abdul had been arrested. The witness concluded by disavowing most of the content in the sworn statement, asserting that it was not reflective of his own words and had not been authored by him.
Another incorrect claim was made when he stated in court that the Mayor instructed him to stay in a hotel until his wound healed, whereas in his sworn affidavit he clearly stated that it was Dr. Aremu who recommended the hotel stay after the surgery.
The witness concluded by asserting that the majority of the content in the affidavit he sworn to in a civil matter presented by NAPTIP does not belong to him and was not authored by him. Upon inquiry from the defense, he confirmed that he had never considered withdrawing from the procedure.
When questioned by the defense counsel regarding his awareness of the contents of the consent form and the potential consequences, Musa stated that he was fully cognizant of the details. He mentioned that Dr. Aremu assured him that the surgeries would be conducted smoothly and safely, and he proceeded with the surgery after agreeing to the terms.
The defense counsel inquired whether the defendant was fully cognizant of the contents of the consent form he signed and the potential consequences. Musa affirmed that he had a thorough understanding, as Dr. Aremu assured him that the surgical procedures would be smooth and safe, and no harm would befall him. Consequently, he consented to and underwent the surgery. When questioned by the defense counsel about his acquaintance with any of the staff members of Alliance Hospital, specifically Dr. Christopher Otabor, Chikaodili Ugochukwu, and Dr. Aremu Abayomi, Musa responded negatively, stating that he had never encountered any of them.
Eager to ascertain any possible connection with the hospital, the defense counsel inquired whether any staff members of Alliance Hospital had given Musa money in cash or deposited funds into his bank account. Musa denied this, clarifying that his first interaction with Dr. Otabor occurred after the surgery when they were both summoned by the police for questioning.
The witness confidently stated that he had requested one million naira as payment, which Mayor promptly provided after the surgery took place. It raises questions as to why the witness, who had signed a consent form with his photograph, claimed to be donating his kidney to a family member without any mention of financial gain, only to eventually receive payment for his organ donation. This discrepancy in the witness’s initial statement and subsequent actions brings into question the true motives behind the kidney donation and the financial transaction that followed.
The witness made it very clear that he was not influenced or forced by anyone to donate his kidney. He stressed that he freely chose to undergo the organ donation process without any external pressure. His decision was completely voluntary and came from his own desire to help others in need.
Day Three
On the third day of the trial, Aminu Yahuza, a 25-year-old man, was called as a witness by NAPTIP. During the cross-examination by the defense counsel, the first document presented to him was a statement on oath provided to NAPTIP. Yahuza vehemently denied the statement, asserting that he neither made the statement nor signed it.
Discrepancies arose regarding his place of origin. While testifying orally, Yahuza stated that he was from the Yelwa Local Government Area of Plateau State, which contradicted the information documented in the NAPTIP statement indicating that he hails from Mangu LGA.
Moreover, Yunusa’s narrative regarding his encounter with the accused individuals, Dr. Christopher Otabor, Chikaodili Ugochukwu, and Dr. Aremu Abayomi, was found to be lacking in coherence. Initially, he mentioned that his acquaintance Abdul had relayed to him that an individual named Mayor was interested in selling their kidney. However, he subsequently asserted that a manager had reached out to his intermediary, Mayor, directly. Nevertheless, Yunusa ultimately maintained that he had not come into contact with any hospital staff until Mayor escorted him to the medical facility.
Bar Afam SAN argued that Yunusa had previously arranged the sale of his kidney for one million naira with Mayor and Abdul before any interaction with Alliance Hospital. He emphasized that none of the hospital staff provided him with compensation for the donation. Yunusa corroborated this assertion, affirming that he did not receive any form of payment from any hospital official.
The witness adamantly affirmed that he was never manipulated or influenced by anyone to contribute his kidney. He stressed that the choice to proceed with the organ donation process was completely voluntary and a result of his own volition.
Upon examination of the witnesses’ testimonies, it is evident that there are discrepancies in their accounts, with one consistent detail being that Alliance Hospital did not offer them remuneration in exchange for their kidneys.
. The presiding judge, Justice Kezziah Ogbonnaya, adjourned the proceedings to April 21st for the continuation of the hearing.
The Honourable Minister of Defence, H.E. Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, MON, mni has urged troops of Operation HADARIN DAJI to continue their tireless efforts towards ensuring that the entire country is completely safe.
Badaru made this charge during a one- day working visit to the Headquarters of 8 Division and Operation HADARIN DAJI’s Area of Responsibility in Sokoto State.
The Minister commended the troops for their remarkable achievements in curbing insecurity in the North West States and in Nigeria in general.
He assured them of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to their welfare and acknowledged the operational challenges they face. He reiterated that the President is working hard to address these challenges and is fully supportive of the military’s efforts.
Speaking on the fight against insurgency and other related criminalities in Nigeria, the Minister said that the successes recorded in the fight was because of President Tinubu’s strong support and the good synergy among security agencies.
He said: “Considering the team assembled, we have a highly cooperative and effective collaboration between the Chief of Defence Staff, Service Chiefs, and other security agencies.
“The level of cooperation has been unprecedented, resulting in significant progress in addressing security challenges.”
Badaru assured the troops that with the requisite equipments, determination, courage, and collaboration, the prevailing security challenges would soon be a thing of the past .
He expressed gratitude to the troops for their unwavering commitment to safeguarding the nation, while assuring them of the government’s dedication to ensuring their welfare and that of their families.
The Minister was briefed by the General Officer Commanding 8 Division and Commander Joint Task Force (North West) Operation HADARIN DAJI, Maj Gen Godwin Mutkut, on the operational activities, achievements, and challenges of Operation HADARIN DAJI.
Earlier, the Minister paid courtesy visits to the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar, and the Deputy Governor of Sokoto State, His Excellency Alhaji Idris Mohammed Gobir, soliciting their support for the military and assuring that troops will intensify operations to bring insecurity to the lowest ebb in the North West and also to drum their support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR’s Renewed Hope Agenda in the fight against insecurity for the entire nation.
The Honourable Minister of Defence, H.E. Muhammed Badaru Abubabar, CON, mni has opined that activities of oil theft, illegal crude oil refining and kidnapping are aided by proliferation of small arms and light weapons in the Niger Delta.
The Minister made the observation while delivering a keynote address at the opening of the 13th National Security Seminar 2024 organized by the Alumni Association of the National Defence College in Abuja.
The seminar served as a platform for addressing critical National Security issues and fostering collaboration among stakeholders.
He said that crude oil theft and illegal crude oil refining are serious crimes against the nation, economy and the citizenry, and government will not tolerate such crimes.
Speaking on the theme of the Seminar: “Curbing oil theft and illegal crude oil Refining in Nigeria”, Badaru emphasized the need for decisive action to combat crude oil theft, illegal refining, and kidnappings. He stressed the importance of implementing comprehensive strategies to end these activities and restore normalcy to affected communities.
“We must continue to broaden the use of appropriate technology in warfare to enhance our situation awareness and execution.These are essential to ensuring that life in the Niger Delta, especially the host communities, return to normalcy,” he said.
While commending President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR for his commitment to national security, he also acknowledged the sacrifices of the Armed Forces and other agencies in tackling insecurity in Nigeria. He said that the significant increase in crude oil production was as a result of the efforts of the Nigerian Armed Forces.
The Minister acknowledged the support of President Tinubu towards the Armed Forces, saying that the successes recorded was as a result of Mr. President’s Renewed Hope Agenda on security of the nation.
Furthermore, he commended AANDEC for bringing these issues to the fore and added that efforts are being made to achieve the desired national objectives.
In a bold move to tackle tax evasion, the Federal Capital Territory Internal Revenue Service (FCT-IRS) has sealed off four premises in Abuja, including a hotel, a school, and two business premises.
Led by Mr. Festus Tsavsar, acting Director of Legal Services at FCT-IRS, the enforcement team took action against the premises for contravening FCT tax laws by failing to file annual returns despite numerous notices and a court summons.
Deo Gratias International School in Games Village, Kaura, was among the premises sealed off for persistent refusal to comply with tax regulations. Despite multiple notifications, the school management failed to file their tax returns, and even attempted to evade tax payments by changing their name to DGIS College.
“This is a clear case of tax evasion, which is a criminal offense,” said Tsavsar, expressing concern over the school’s actions.
The team also sealed off Residency Hotels at No. 4, Port Harcourt Crescent, Area II, Garki, for similar tax evasion offenses. Additionally, Rural Urban Homes Ltd in Utako and two business premises, Trevari International Company and Phenomenon International Company, located in Transcorp Hilton, Abuja, were sealed off for non-compliance with tax regulations
Tsavsar warned the affected business owners against attempting to unseal the premises without a court order, stating that doing so would be a criminal offense. “They will be prosecuted in line with tax laws and face a six-month jail term and fine upon conviction,” he added.
The FCT-IRS has vowed to go after all tax defaulting companies and individuals, and has advised taxpayers to comply with existing tax laws, pay their taxes, and file their annual returns to avoid similar action.”
