Abiola Adebisi, husband of Deborah Loveth, popularly known as Debbie, has expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support and donations they have received from Nigerians on social media. Debbie gained widespread attention after sharing on X that she wakes up at 4:50 a.m. daily to cook for her husband.
The tweet stirred controversy, drawing both criticism and support. However, many individuals, touched by her dedication, contributed money and other items to assist the couple. The donations include over 2 million in cash, two new Infinix smartphones, new furniture, and a PM’s voucher.
In response to the outpouring of support, Abiola took to X to bless the day he met Debbie, describing her as a blessing in his life. He also referred to her as a prayer warrior, stating, “She can pray. My god in human form.”
The couple’s story has become a testament to the power of social media in rallying support, fostering unity, and showcasing the generosity of individuals within the online community.
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has extended a gesture of appreciation to #_Debbie_OA, an X user, by offering a free Petrol Motor Spirit (PMS) voucher worth N200,000. This move follows a tweet in which Debbie shared her commitment to waking up at 4:50 a.m. daily to prepare food for her husband.
In a tweet from the official NNPCL X handle, the company expressed admiration for Debbie’s love story and announced the gift, stating that the voucher could be redeemed at any of their 900+ retail stations nationwide. The tweet emphasized that this gesture would ensure that Debbie has energy for today and tomorrow. NNPCL confirmed reaching out to Debbie via direct message.
Debbie’s story gained attention and sparked controversy on social media after she revealed waking up early to cook for her husband, who mentioned his colleague’s thoughtful act of bringing two spoons to share a meal. The tweet generated mixed reactions, with some condemning and others supporting her dedication.
In addition to the NNPCL’s reward, Infinix Nigeria offered Debbie and her husband its latest device, Infinix Hot 40. The generosity extended beyond corporate gifts, as netizens donated over N2 million to Debbie, showcasing the supportive nature of fellow Nigerians.
This series of gestures reflects the power of social media in bringing attention to individuals and stories, creating a ripple effect of goodwill and contributions.
The Accountant-General of the Federation (AGF), Dr. Oluwatoyin Madein, has refuted reports claiming that her office honored a request to pay N585 million into a private account as directed by the Minister for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Betta Edu.
The AGF clarified that while her office received the minister’s request, it did not carry out the payment. The statement emphasized that the AGF’s office advised the ministry on the appropriate steps to follow, ensuring compliance with established payment procedures.
According to the AGF, payments in such situations are typically processed by the affected ministries as self-accounting entities. The AGF stressed that no bulk payment should be made to an individual’s account in the name of the Project Accountant. Instead, payments should be directed to the beneficiaries through their verified bank accounts.
Dr. Madein reiterated her commitment to upholding principles of accountability and transparency in the management of public finances. She urged Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to adhere to the necessary steps in conducting financial transactions.
The clarification comes in response to a document that circulated on social media, indicating a directive from the minister to disburse funds into a private account for vulnerable groups in Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Ogun, and Lagos States. The media assistant to the minister had previously stated that such payments into private accounts were legal within the civil service, specifically for project accountants.
The AGF’s statement aims to dispel any misconceptions regarding the alleged payment into a private account and reinforces the importance of transparent financial practices within government entities.
Port Harcourt, January 6, 2024 – The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, paid a visit to the National Vice Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief Victor Giadom, in Rivers State, raising speculations about potential political realignment. Wike, the former governor of Rivers State, expressed happiness at reconciling with Giadom during the visit.
In a video shared, Wike confidently stated that the individual in charge would soon be revealed. Addressing the crowd, he said, “Forget about these hungry noisemakers on the road. When the time comes, we will know who is in charge and who is not in charge. There is a time for everything.”
Wike emphasized that the current situation was not the time for politics, stating, “When the time comes, we will know who is who.” He urged the people not to be swayed by social media discussions and affirmed his commitment to the people.
The visit, hosted by Giadom in his hometown, Bera, Gokana Local Government Area, seemed to mark a possible realignment in Rivers State politics. Wike clarified that his visit was not for political reasons, stating, “I came here to visit my friend, Giadom. Let nobody misinterpret why I came here. That is why I came with PDP and APC leaders. It is a private visit to my friend.”
Wike stressed the importance of friendship in politics and acknowledged Giadom’s political relevance. He encouraged impactful politics that positively affect the people.
Giadom, in response, described Wike’s visit as a homecoming of a brother, friend, and leader. He pledged support for any team Wike would lead in Rivers State, highlighting the control they have over the region.
Prominent politicians present during the visit included Senators Barry Mpigi, Allwell Onyeso, Philip Adudua, Chief Dan Orbih, Ambassador Maurine Tamuno, Felix Obuah, and others.
The visit comes amid political tensions in Rivers State, with Wike expressing his support for Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s government and emphasizing the need for unity in the region.
The Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN) has issued a stern warning, threatening to close the nation’s seaports from next Tuesday. The union cites the alleged persistent refusal of International Oil Companies (IOCs) and stevedoring contractors to comply with existing laws as the reason behind the planned action.
In a statement by MWUN’s Head of Media, John Ikemefuna, quoting the President-General, Prince Adewale Adeyanju, it was revealed that the shutdown would extend to all jetties and oil and gas platforms. Adeyanju emphasized the union’s frustration with the unresponsiveness of IOCs and stevedoring contractors to various forms of communication and warnings.
The union claims to have taken multiple steps to address the issue, including letters, press releases, ultimatums, marine notices to the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), and ministerial orders. However, all these efforts seem to have been ignored by the management of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA).
Adeyanju referenced a letter dated June 13, 2023, demanding total compliance of IOCs with stevedoring regulations in line with communiqués signed by relevant stakeholders in the sector. The NPA, as a master stevedore and industry regulator, is responsible for granting operational licenses to stevedoring companies. It must ensure that IOCs adhere to regulations and oversee the dealings of IOCs using the services of stevedoring companies, as well as the welfare of MWUN members employed by IOCs.
Expressing disappointment with the NPA’s alleged neglect of its responsibilities, the union emphasized its commitment to operating within existing regulations. The MWUN accused the NPA of allowing IOCs to run amok without control in the sector.
Citing the refusal of IOCs to comply with stevedoring regulations and the violation of union cheque-off dues remittance, the MWUN declared its intent to shut down seaports nationwide on Tuesday, January 9, 2024. This action follows the expiration of the three workdays given to the NPA, starting from January 4, 2024.
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) Command, has made significant interceptions, including combat drones, military hardware, and counterfeit currency. Customs Area Controller, Compt. Charles Orbih, shared these details during a press briefing on the command’s activities in 2023.
According to Compt. Orbih, the combat-ready drone, equipped with first aid box space and the ability to carry weapons, was intercepted. Additionally, 154 drones were either seized or detained by the command. Notably, these drones lacked the required End User Certificate (EUC) from the office of the National Security Adviser (NSA) and exceeded the specifications allowed into the country.
Orbih highlighted the concerning features of the combat drone, stating, “It can fly for over 70 hours and has space for weapon handling. This can be used as a weapon of war, and it lacks the EUC from the National Security Adviser (NSA).”
In the press briefing, Compt. Orbih reported that the NCS, MMIA Command, exceeded its revenue target in 2023, generating N30.5 billion from January to December. This figure surpassed the target revenue by five percent and represented a 46% increase compared to the revenue collected in the corresponding year of 2022, which was N20.89 billion.
Providing a breakdown of the seized items, he mentioned that the command made 125 seizures with a Duty Paid Value (DPV) of N801.56 million for the year 2023. The intercepted goods included 89 seized drones, 66 detained drones, 330 military and other security wares, 700 rolls of cigarettes, 126 walkie-talkies and their accessories, 87 pieces of artifacts and antiquities, and 22 pieces of elephant tusks.
Additionally, the command discovered $10,000 counterfeit notes, which have been handed over to the Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC), along with $8,800 concealed in an album.
The Customs Area Controller emphasized the command’s commitment to enforcing regulations and protecting the nation from the influx of illegal and harmful items.
Sir Oladipo Okpeseyi (SAN), the legal counsel to former Minister of Humanitarian Services, Disaster Management, and Social Development, Hajiya Sadiya Umar-Farouq, has addressed misconceptions surrounding her purported non-compliance with an Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) invitation.
Contrary to media reports, Okpeseyi emphasized that Sadiya did not shun the invitation but instead sought an extension of time to appear for an interview. He explained that he personally submitted a letter to the EFCC, requesting a rescheduling of the interview. The lawyer highlighted the eagerness of his client to clarify matters concerning the financial activities of agencies under her ministry.
“The EFCC has yet to send me a formal reply, the leadership availed us of its understanding, which resulted in parties amicably agreeing to have the interview originally scheduled for Wednesday postponed,” Okpeseyi clarified during a media chat.
Responding to allegations of misappropriation of funds, the Senior Advocate of Nigeria countered such claims, asserting that Sadiya’s invitation was centered on offering clarifications about certain expenditures by agencies under her ministry, not fraudulent activities.
The EFCC, through its spokesperson Dele Oyewale, supported Okpeseyi’s statement, confirming that Sadiya did not disregard the invitation but sent a letter citing health challenges. Oyewale stated, “Sadiya didn’t shun EFCC invitation; she actually gave reasons why she couldn’t meet up. Her lawyer was also at the commission to brief the anti-graft agency of why she couldn’t come or honor the invitation.”
Addressing the alleged fraud of N37.1 billion in agencies under the ministry, Oyewale clarified that the figure was yet to be confirmed as investigations were ongoing. He asserted that the EFCC considered Sadiya’s plea and expected her to honor the invitation without further delay.
In a related development, the National Coordinator and Chief Executive Officer of the National Social Investment Programme Agency (NSIPA), Halima Shehu, who was arrested earlier, has been released. Shehu was directed to appear at the EFCC office for interrogation throughout the ongoing investigation.
While Sadiya had previously issued a response through her media aide, denying any business relationship with a contractor under investigation, she reiterated her readiness to legally seek redress if her name is defamed. Sadiya served as the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management, and Social Development in the immediate past administration.
The rescheduled interview is expected to shed light on the financial transactions and expenditures of the agencies under her ministry, providing clarity to the ongoing EFCC investigation.
Chief Bode George, a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), voiced deep concern about the current state of insecurity in Nigeria, stating that it has spiraled beyond control. In an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Friday, George emphasized that the nation is facing a dire situation that transcends political considerations.
“The state of our nation has been completely in a shambolic situation, it is perpetual despair and despondency. There is hunger in the land and there is anger in the land; the insecurity has gone beyond control,” remarked George during the interview.
Acknowledging President Bola Tinubu’s New Year speech and objectives for the year, George asserted that it is not the time for political games but a crucial moment for the entire nation. He acknowledged the challenges ahead for President Tinubu and expressed readiness among Nigerians to give him the necessary time to address the pressing issues.
George highlighted key areas that demand urgent attention, such as national defence, internal security, and job creation. He urged President Tinubu to leverage modern technology to tackle insecurity effectively, emphasizing the importance of surveillance and the use of cameras to monitor and control situations remotely.
“We all Nigerians will give him a chance, let us see how he is going to handle it. Bola Tinubu, God will guide him – he is in the hottest seat in the whole of Africa today because for every 10 Africans 6 are Nigerians, brilliant people,” George expressed, acknowledging the complexities of the challenges faced by the new administration.
On the issue of security, George reiterated the call for the establishment of state police, emphasizing that much power is concentrated in the hands of the Inspector General of Police. He advocated for a communal approach to policing, suggesting that employing individuals from local communities would enhance the effectiveness of law enforcement.
While acknowledging that addressing these issues may take time, George stressed the importance of President Tinubu initiating concrete steps to demonstrate a commitment to tackling the security challenges plaguing the nation.
The alleged marriage between a four-year-old girl and a 54-year-old man in the Akeddei community of Sagbama Local Government Area in Bayelsa has sparked controversy, with the child’s parents defending the ceremony as a traditional rite to save their daughter’s life.
The parents, along with the 54-year-old man, a traditional ruler, and others involved in the event, faced scrutiny from the Bayelsa Government’s Gender Response Initiative Team (GRIT) following public outcry.
During the meeting, the father of the toddler, Mr. Morris Aboma, and the “groom,” Mr. Akpos Napoleon, explained that the ceremony was a cultural practice known as “Koripamo,” performed to address the child’s recurring illnesses. They clarified that this ritual required a symbolic amount to be paid by a man to save the child’s life and was not a formal marriage.
Representatives from the Akeddei community emphasized that the ceremony did not involve the man taking the girl as his wife, and it would not prevent her from marrying someone of her choice in the future. They highlighted that the rite, performed during the December 26, 2023 event, was a customary practice specific to their community.
Mr. Napoleon expressed regret over the public outcry, stating that he participated in the ceremony solely to save the child’s life, as she is reportedly no longer suffering from the severe illnesses.
The paramount ruler of Akeddei community, Chief Moneyman Binabo, corroborated the explanation, clarifying that the ritual was not a formal marriage but a fulfillment of a cultural practice. He further mentioned the unexpected demand from the little girl for an elaborate celebration involving food, canopy, and a sound system.
The GRIT team, including Dr. Dise Ogbise-Goddy and Kizito Andah, clarified that based on their investigation, the event was not a formal marriage, and the child had not been sexually abused. Dr. James Omietimi at the GRIT office confirmed that the child was leading a normal life with no relationship with the 54-year-old man.
Chairman of GRIT, Ogbise-Goddy, assured that the Bayelsa Ministry of Women Affairs, Children, and Social Development, along with stakeholders, would review the situation and make informed decisions. She emphasized the government’s commitment to protecting children from any perceived abuse, reaffirming Bayelsa’s child-friendly stance.
The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) reported a significant achievement in its efforts to combat human trafficking in Katsina, revealing the rescue of approximately 470 victims during the course of 2023.
Mr. Musa Aliyu, the NAPTIP Commander in Katsina, disclosed this information to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) during a statement provided on Saturday. He outlined that, alongside these rescues, the command successfully apprehended and prosecuted four individuals involved in human trafficking.
Throughout the year, the Katsina command dealt with 25 reported cases of human trafficking and an additional two cases related to Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP).
“In 2023, the command in Katsina rescued 470 victims of human trafficking, reuniting them with their respective families,” stated the NAPTIP Commander, emphasizing the critical nature of their intervention.
To address the needs of the rescued victims, the NAPTIP Katsina command is anticipating the delivery of rehabilitation items from the agency’s headquarters, facilitating the process of reintegrating these individuals into society.
Furthermore, Aliyu highlighted collaborative efforts with the International Centre for Migration on Policy Development (ICMPD), underscoring various initiatives aimed at raising awareness within border communities. Sensitization programs were conducted in conjunction with the Katsina government, targeting Religious and Traditional leaders, as well as youth populations in Mai’adua, Baure, and Mashi Local Government Areas.
As part of the comprehensive approach, the NAPTIP Katsina command, in collaboration with the ICMPD, organized free medical treatment for over 80 victims of human trafficking. Aliyu stressed the importance of addressing issues of trauma and sexual exploitation faced by these victims through such medical interventions.
The concerted efforts of NAPTIP and its partners aim not only to combat human trafficking but also to provide support, rehabilitation, and preventive measures to safeguard vulnerable communities.
