The city of Abuja is, indeed, a modern one, reflecting development-in-progress as Federal Capital Territory of Nigeria. The territory is subdivided into six Area Councils, being of equal status to Local Governments in Nigeria. The Government of Nigeria that muted and executed the movement of the seat of power from Lagos to Abuja must have considered the distorted and congestive state of Lagos being the erstwhile Federal Capital. The city of Abuja is privileged to have emerged in advanced era of technology and electronic devices that could be used to track, plan, control crime and criminality but such is being obstructed and most often, unimplemented due to decay in our institutions and endemic corruption of security and relevant personnel. Those are the ones entrusted with enforcement in order to have a seamless and low crime modern city. Road networks and urban planning of Abuja should have been one of the best in Africa but, the menace of lawless road users being encouraged by criminally minded traffic enforcers have remained a cankerworm and destroyers of the good dream of developing Abuja into one of the most beautiful cities in Africa. Security enforcers and road managers cutting across the police traffic departments, Vehicle Inspection Officers, (VIO) Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) are culpable in encouraging and clogging the wheel of progress to the sanitization of Abuja from criminal and criminalities. Most flashpoints of traffic violations such as beating traffic lights, plying of One-Ways are being selectively “enforced.” The enforcement is often made on cash induced basis. In fact, such situation is often not the type that can deter traffic offenders. If you are a “big man” or “big madam” and drive around area such as Rita Lori junction along Ahmadu Bello Way through to dead end of Gudu Market and you beat the traffic light, all you need to do is to part with crispy Naira notes for traffic enforcers who would just counsel, threaten and or intimidate you about having your vehicle impounded. At the end, you would be allowed a soft landing from all such threats after corruptly greasing the palm of the officers. Most of the culprits in this lawlessness are drivers of rickety commercial vehicles, as well as delivery riders. All such lawlessness and bribe taking are done by officers who obviously don’t mind whose ox is gored, and in what looks like a synergy amongst the traffic wardens and the FRSC patrol team. These law officers, at the alter of what they corruptly gain from such outing, do overlook breach of traffic light, none use of seatbelts, hyper overloading of vehicles, over expired and life threatening, time bomb worn out Tyres. Grateful for the recent court ruling against the lawless activities of VIOs, a department that is completely enmeshed in corrupt practices. Apo bridge is another dangerous spot where you encounter chaotic display of lawless NAPEP riders and unofficial non gazetted, one-chance-like “enforcers” who are good at snatching car keys from innocent motorists for parking to drop relatives, or family members. Still under the watchful eyes of Police, you sometimes innocently fall victim to their harassment and extortion. It must be stressed that impunity, recklessness of commercial road users and traffic violations are destroying the traffic architecture of Abuja metropolis as a result of selective enforcement, motivated and encouraged by corrupt infractions of the enforcers. These enforcers, seem to be officially operating without adequate supervision and accountability by the relevant Government institutions. Abuja city should be made to enjoy a seamless and less criminal activity in terms of traffic system. Relevant institutions should rise to address the growing corruption trends in the city, brooking no sacred cow or selective enforcement of traffic offenders.. In the word of Robert Kennedy: “Every society gets the kind of criminal it deserves. What is equally true is that every community gets the kind of law enforcement it insists on.” Let there be equity in our justice system and in implementation as well as enforcement. Mr. Emmanuel is a Public Affairs Analyst, and wrote in from Abuja Email: oohinoyi@yahoo.com
A federal high court in Abuja has discharged and acquitted Ishaq Modibbo Kawu, former Director-General of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), of fraud allegations. Modibbo Kawu was first arraigned in May 2019 on a 12-count charge alongside Dipo Onifade, Pinnacle Communications Limited and its former chairman, Lucky Omoluwa. The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) accused the defendants of allegedly paying N2.5 billion seed grant for the digital switchover (DSO) project to Pinnacle Communications Limited. ICPC charged Modibbo Kawu with abuse of office, money laundering and misleading a public officer with the intent to defraud the federal government. The act was said to contravene sections 26 (1) (c) and punishable under the section 19 of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000. Although the defendants filed a no-case submission, it was later dismissed by the federal high court and also dismissed by the court of appeal. The defendants, except Omoluwa who died in February 2020, were later re-arraigned on a five-count charge in December 2020. Delivering judgment today, February 13, the trial judge, Justice Folasade Giwa-Ogunbanjo, held that the ICPC was not able to prove the allegations against the defendants. The judge discharged the defendants on the grounds that the statements and evidences of the witnesses could not link any allegation against the defendants. Source: TheCable.
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi State has enumerated a number of the benefits of Radio to the growth and development of a society. Speaking as the world celebrates this year’s World Radio Day today, February 13, Ododo noted that the unique ability of Radio to reach a wide audience transcend geographical boundaries and provide a platform for diverse voices. Such outreach, he stressed, makes Radio to be an indispensable tool for promoting understanding, empathy, unity and social change. “We are reminded of the importance of radio in promoting development, democracy, human rights and social change. “Our investment in climate-resilient agricultural practice and sustainable development and the premium we have placed on expanding access to information through broadcasting and radio in particular resonate with the theme of this year’s celebration, Ismaila Isah, Special Adviser on Media to the Governor”, quoted the governor to have said The Governor reiterated the commitment of his administration to support the growth and development of radio, stressing that radio has the power to transform lives, promote education and health, and foster economic growth and development. The Governor used the occasion to restate his administration’s commitment to promoting inclusion in governance and leaving no voices unheard in the governance of the state. He said that he had demonstrated this by ensuring the participation of youth, women, people living with disabilities and all stakeholders from different ethnic, religious and political affiliations in the administration, he said. “I am delighted to join the rest of the world in celebrating this year’s World Radio Day. I recognize the immense contribution of radio to our state’s development and the nation at large. Radio has been a trusted companion to millions of people around the world, providing news, entertainment and education. “It has been a powerful tool for social change, promoting understanding as a platform for all voices to be heard.” Reflecting on the theme of this year’s celebration, “Radio and Climate Change,” Governor Ododo noted that the celebration presents an opportunity for people around the world to acknowledge the pivotal role radio plays in raising awareness about climate change, promoting and supporting communities affected by climate-related challenges.
Clerk to the National Assembly (CNA), Kamoru Ogunlana has commended the National Assembly Service Commission (NASC), for streamlining appointment of legislative aides. The Clerk noted that the decision to streamline appointment of the legislative aides had enhanced the efficiency and effectiveness of legislative processes. In a speech at the valedictory session for the immediate chairman and members of the NASC, Kamoru Ogunlana said that the Commission’s focus on “optimizing this aspect of our work has ensured that our lawmakers are supported by capable and dedicated professionals, thus strengthening the foundation of our democracy.” He celebrated the achievements of the Commission as chairman and members concluded their five-year tenure. “This moment is not just a reflection on the past, but also a celebration of the transformative journey we have undertaken together.” He said that throughout their time in office, the Commission had championed significant reforms that had profoundly impacted the operations and administration of our National Assembly. Kamoru Ogunlana said that the unwavering commitment to excellence by the Board of the Commission had paved the way for a more efficient and responsive legislative framework. “One of the most commendable achievements has been the successful organization of promotion examinations. “The timely release of results has instilled a culture of meritocracy and transparency, motivating our staff members to strive for excellence. “This initiative has empowered many dedicated individuals in our assembly to realize their career aspirations. “The groundbreaking work on the construction of the permanent complex of the Commission stands as a testament to their vision for creating a conducive work environment. “This complex will not only serve as a physical space for our operations, but will symbolize our commitment to ongoing improvement and modernization in service delivery.” The CNA expressed appreciation for the opportunities he received during his tenure, including three elevations to exalted positions: Secretary, Legal Services, Deputy Clerk to the National Assembly and Clerk to the National Assembly. “Each advancement has been a testament to the confidence the Commission has placed in me, and I am appreciative of the collaborative spirit that imbued our work.” “As we bid farewell to our esteemed Commissioners, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for your exceptional service to the National Assembly Service. Your leadership, vision and dedication have left an indelible mark on our institution. You have set a high standard that will guide future endeavours within the Commission and beyond. “To conclude, as you embark on new journeys, know that your contributions will always be cherished, and your legacy will continue to inspire us all. Thank you for your service and may you find success in all your future endeavours.”
The Tony Elumelu’s Foundation has signed a $6 million agreement with the UAE’s Office of Development Affairs and the Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Foundation to empower 1,000 young African entrepreneurs. The partnership, according to report, is aimed to provide essential resources, including business training, mentorship, and non-refundable seed capital of $5,000. The founder of the Foundation, Tony Elumelu, was quoted as saying: “empowering entrepreneurs is not just a moral imperative, but also a strategic investment in Africa’s future. “By providing the necessary access to capital, mentorship, and resources, we are unlocking the potential of Africa’s entrepreneurial talent, eradicating poverty, driving self-reliance, and paving the way for inclusive growth and prosperity on the continent.” The partnership will leverage the Tony Elumelu Foundation’s expertise in catalysing entrepreneurship through the Tony Elumelu Entrepreneurship Programme.
The Director General of the Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Foundation, His Excellency Mohamed Haji Al Khoori, said: ”This partnership aligns with our goal of strengthening economies and creating sustainable businesses that uplift communities”. It would be recalled that since its inception in 2015, the Tony Elumelu Foundation has made significant strides in its mission to support young African entrepreneurs. The foundation has provided access to training and resources via its digital hub, TEFConnect, reaching over 2.5 million young Africans. The foundation has disbursed more than $100 million in funding to over 21,000 entrepreneurs across the continent, creating over 1.5 million direct and indirect jobs. Source: Persecondnews.
Morocco, through its Association of Regions (Governor’s Forum) has made special request for Yobe state government to participate and showcase its sesame seeds and Gum Arabic in the forthcoming international trade fair in Mekenes, Morocco. The Executive Director of the association, Mohammed El Bachiri, said that the association is ready to collaborate with the Yobe state government to attract investors and marketers to the state for direct and indirect investments. He said that under the collaboration programme, there would be rooms for financing of Agriculture, environment, climate and housing in the local government areas. This is even as the leader of the delegation and Secretary to Yobe state government, Baba Malam Wali, said that the state government would take advantage of the forthcoming trade fair to present its agricultural products. “We have high quality graded sesame seeds, Gum Arabic, beans, groundnut and livestock among others in commercial quantities in all the local government areas. “His Excellency Gov. Mai Mala Buni has directed us to collaborate with reputable agencies and organizations to attract employment and wealth Creation opportunities for the benefit of our youth. “The state government is ready to partner the association to engage our youth into agricultural production especially in the sesame seeds and others.” Meanwhile, the state Commissioner for Agriculture, Mustapha Goniri, has said that Yobe state produces and processes the best sesame seeds of international standard. “The state government under His Excellency Governor Mai Mala Buni established four Sesame seeds processing plants to upgrade the quality of the product. “The international trade fair would give our state the opportunity to show the quality of our farm produce to the World” Goniri said. Similarly, the state Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Ibrahim Adamu Jajere, expressed the readiness of the 17 Local Government Councils to participate in the trade fair. “They all have the opportunity to showcase their individual products to attract investors to their areas and secure employment to their people.” The Chief Executive Officer of the consulting firm, African Network Center, Ahmed Shuaibu Gara Gombe, said that documentation and all other necessary requirements for participation in the international trade fair would be completed quickly.
“As the Chief Security Officer of this state, I have directed security agencies to deal decisively with any promoter of violence within the context of rule of law. We will not allow this state to be plunged into a baseless conflict.” These were contained in a statement today, February 12, by Olawale Rasheed, Spokesperson to Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State as the state prepares for the local government election, scheduled for February 22, 2025. The spokesperson quoted Governor Adeleke as saying that his government has credible reports of plots by elements within the opposition to foment crisis in the state, saying: “I warn those plotting such evil to desist because of its grave consequences. “Democracy is about ballot papers, not guns and cutlass. Go to the poll on the 22nd. Make your preference known in peaceful manners. Osun is a bastion of democracy. We are ready as we have the capacity to defend our democratic heritage.” The governor commended the peaceful campaigns by various political parties ahead of the elections, but asked candidates across the parties to sell their agenda to the voting public instead of resorting to violence or arm twisting. “As a government, we are committed to free and fair elections. We have followed the preparatory activities of the state electoral commission and we assure the public that we respect the independence of the commission to conduct credible elections. “We are highly educated in Osun state. Our literacy level is at an all time high. This is not a state where residents can be lied to. They read and digest court rulings and political subjects without being hoodwinked. I urge our people to get prepared for February 22. It is an opportunity to vote for your preferred council chairmen and councilors. “We are a nation governed by law. The judiciary, like it has been said recently, is the harbinger of hope. We must avoid misrepresentation and misinformation about court processes. We have a sacred duty to avoid fake news. It is an offence punishable under the law.”
The Security Committee of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has raised a special Committee to address what it described as “influx of Almajiri” (Qur’anic pupils) and other persons considered security threats into the city. The formation of the special Committee was made today, February 11, during an expanded security meeting that was chaired by the Minister, Nyesom Wike. The special committee, according to a statement from the minister’s office, would be made up of members from the FCT security agencies, including the Nigerian Police, the Nigerian Army, the DSS and the NSCDC. The special Committee has the responsibilities of working with Area Council Chairmen to identify schools where these Almajiri children are being taught, profile the organizers of the schools, including their pictures and phone numbers, and determining the content of the training provided to the pupils. The statement said that the special committee was given two weeks within which to submit its report to the Minister. The committee advised all FCT residents to be security conscious and report suspicious individuals in their areas to the appropriate authorities. “Everybody should be security conscious; we need to profile people coming into our environments, we need to know them.”
The official manufacturer and marketer of the Peugeot brand of vehicles in Nigeria, Dangote Peugeot Automobiles Nigeria Limited (DPAN), has commenced the assembly of the GT model of the wave-making Peugeot 3008. A statement from the company said that the product has hit commercial success and won awards with its different variants in various markets across the world. The statement said that with its 1.6 litre high performance turbo engine, Peugeot 3008 GT has expanded the existing line-up of vehicles from the assembly lines of the modern plant that opened some years ago in Kaduna. “The new 3008 GT is joining the existing ‘Made-in-Nigeria Peugeot’ range that includes the popular 301 sedan, and the 5008 (a large, seven-seater known for its spacious interior, stylish design, and modern technology features). “Get behind the steering and fall in love with the driver lumbar adjustment and massage seat. And, ready to go? Just push the start button, and you will hear the gentle hum of the engine that is mated to an Automatic Transmission system. “You will find the Bluetooth telephony very useful – keeping you clear of ‘phoning-while-driving’ infraction, which is one of the most violated traffic offences in Nigeria according to the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC). “For a long-distance drive on the highway, the vehicle’s cruise control enables the driver to maintain a preset speed without having the need to press the accelerator pedal. “A premium trim level of the Peugeot 3008 SUV, the new GT model being assembled by DPAN features auto headlights, fog lamps, day running lights, sunroof with sliding function and covering, and 17-inch alloy wheels. “Just as In its older siblings, safety, whether active or passive, has not been compromised in the 3008 produced with the needs of the Nigerian market and motoring environment in mind. “Some of the salient safety features are at least eight airbags ensuring comprehensive protection for all occupants, including the driver and front seat passenger; lane departure warning; electric child safety system; as well as graphic and audible rear parking assistance. “The vehicle is also endowed with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) which obviates locking of the wheels during braking; Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) that prevents skidding and loss of control; and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBFD). ‘Working in tandem with the ABS during braking, EBFD distributes braking force to each wheel based on the vehicle’s weight distribution. “As in most class-beating Peugeot vehicles, 3008 GT flaunts the brand’s I-Cockpit, which interfaces with the driver through the 12.3” head-up display, the 8-inch touchscreen, and and a multifunction steering wheel. “The comfortable ambience of the interior is enhanced by the auto dual zone air-conditioner, cooling glove box, top quality CD/MP3 sound system with aux plug and HP pack, as well as rear power windows.” The Dangote Peugeot Chief Commercial Officer, Umar Isa -Kaita, was quoted as having confirmed that the automaker is also set to introduce into the light commercial segment of the market the Peugeot Landtrek 4×2 – a pickup truck with a rear-wheel drive system. “A 2.4 litre engine work horse, the vehicle is part of the Peugeot Landtrek pick-up truck range with a reputation for ruggedness. Another member of the family is the 4×4 version (which DPAN may consider introducing later). Isa-Kaita also disclosed that DPAN has been holding discussions with some auto companies towards expanding the Peugeot sales and after-sales network by accrediting dealerships in parts of Nigeria. “Apart from enhancing the visibility and availability of the new generation vehicles in all parts of the country, increased number of dealerships is expected to ensure satisfactory after-sales support for Peugeot owners nationwide. “Dangote Peugeot Automobiles Nigeria Limited is jointly owned by billionaire businessman and mega industrialist, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, through his Dangote Industries Limited; Kaduna, Plateau and Kebbi State Governments; and the technical partner (Stellantis Group, the parent company of Peugeot). “The addition of the 3008 GT to the ‘Assembled-in-Nigeria’ and the introduction of the Landtrek, were in fulfillment of the promise made by the company during the roll-out of the 301 in January, 2022. The Managing Director, Ibrahim Isa Gachi, had assured that the Landtrek, 3008, 5008 and the new 508, would later be introduced into the market to follow the trail blazed by the 301.” Engineer Isa Gachi expressed confidence that with the capacity to assemble 120 sundry Peugeot vehicles a day (running two shifts), DPAN would gradually return the Peugeot brand to the forefront of the Nigerian auto market. The roaring French lion emblem was the flagship brand of the Nigerian auto industry from the 80s to the early 90s until unfavourable economic atmosphere and policy inconsistency paved the way for the invasion of fully built-up vehicles with Asian DNAs.
Former Nigeria’s Vice President, Atiku Abubakar has claimed that he and former President Olusegun Obasanjo did not discuss any thing politics when they held a close door meeting today, January 10. Atiku, who arrived at Obasanjo’s Abeokuta residence within the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library at exactly 12:37 pm, was accompanied by former Governor of Cross River State, Senator Liyel Imoke; former Governor of Sokoto State, Senator Aminu Tambuwal; and Senator Abdul Ningi, among others. Atiku and his entourage were received at Obasanjo’s residence by elder statesman Oyewole Fasawe before proceeding upstairs for a private meeting with Obasanjo, which lasted approximately one and a half hours. When he emerged from the meeting at about 2:17 pm, Atiku told journalists that he was on a courtesy visit to his former boss and that politics was not discussed. When asked whether the meeting was related to his 2027 presidential ambition, Atiku said: “I am here on a courtesy call. I am not here to talk politics.”
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Abuja City And The Impunity Of Traffic Law Enforcers, By Emmanuel Omuya Yusuf
The city of Abuja is, indeed, a modern one, reflecting development-in-progress as Federal Capital Territory of Nigeria. The territory is subdivided into six Area Councils, being of equal status to Local Governments in Nigeria.
The Government of Nigeria that muted and executed the movement of the seat of power from Lagos to Abuja must have considered the distorted and congestive state of Lagos being the erstwhile Federal Capital.
The city of Abuja is privileged to have emerged in advanced era of technology and electronic devices that could be used to track, plan, control crime and criminality but such is being obstructed and most often, unimplemented due to decay in our institutions and endemic corruption of security and relevant personnel. Those are the ones entrusted with enforcement in order to have a seamless and low crime modern city.
Road networks and urban planning of Abuja should have been one of the best in Africa but, the menace of lawless road users being encouraged by criminally minded traffic enforcers have remained a cankerworm and destroyers of the good dream of developing Abuja into one of the most beautiful cities in Africa.
Security enforcers and road managers cutting across the police traffic departments, Vehicle Inspection Officers, (VIO) Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) are culpable in encouraging and clogging the wheel of progress to the sanitization of Abuja from criminal and criminalities.
Most flashpoints of traffic violations such as beating traffic lights, plying of One-Ways are being selectively “enforced.” The enforcement is often made on cash induced basis. In fact, such situation is often not the type that can deter traffic offenders.
If you are a “big man” or “big madam” and drive around area such as Rita Lori junction along Ahmadu Bello Way through to dead end of Gudu Market and you beat the traffic light, all you need to do is to part with crispy Naira notes for traffic enforcers who would just counsel, threaten and or intimidate you about having your vehicle impounded. At the end, you would be allowed a soft landing from all such threats after corruptly greasing the palm of the officers. Most of the culprits in this lawlessness are drivers of rickety commercial vehicles, as well as delivery riders.
All such lawlessness and bribe taking are done by officers who obviously don’t mind whose ox is gored, and in what looks like a synergy amongst the traffic wardens and the FRSC patrol team.
These law officers, at the alter of what they corruptly gain from such outing, do overlook breach of traffic light, none use of seatbelts, hyper overloading of vehicles, over expired and life threatening, time bomb worn out Tyres.
Grateful for the recent court ruling against the lawless activities of VIOs, a department that is completely enmeshed in corrupt practices.
Apo bridge is another dangerous spot where you encounter chaotic display of lawless NAPEP riders and unofficial non gazetted, one-chance-like “enforcers” who are good at snatching car keys from innocent motorists for parking to drop relatives, or family members.
Still under the watchful eyes of Police, you sometimes innocently fall victim to their harassment and extortion.
It must be stressed that impunity, recklessness of commercial road users and traffic violations are destroying the traffic architecture of Abuja metropolis as a result of selective enforcement, motivated and encouraged by corrupt infractions of the enforcers. These enforcers, seem to be officially operating without adequate supervision and accountability by the relevant Government institutions.
Abuja city should be made to enjoy a seamless and less criminal activity in terms of traffic system. Relevant institutions should rise to address the growing corruption trends in the city, brooking no sacred cow or selective enforcement of traffic offenders..
In the word of Robert Kennedy: “Every society gets the kind of criminal it deserves. What is equally true is that every community gets the kind of law enforcement it insists on.”
Let there be equity in our justice system and in implementation as well as enforcement.
Mr. Emmanuel is a Public Affairs Analyst, and wrote in from Abuja
Email: oohinoyi@yahoo.com