Author: Val Kosi

  • Comfort Tinubu stabs husband to death in Ibadan

    Comfort Tinubu stabs husband to death in Ibadan

    A 33-year-old woman, Comfort Tinubu, has allegedly stabbed her 39-year-old husband, Olusegun Tinubu to death in Ibadan.

    It was gathered that the couple who got married about three years ago had two children from the marriage.

    The incident according to sources occurred around the Gbeyi community in Adegbayi area of Ibadan on Wednesday around 10.00 p.m.

    It was learnt that the crisis started as a result of an argument about the wife locking the husband out of the bedroom.

    This later resulted in a fight that saw the wife allegedly stab the husband in the back.

    It was learnt that the matter was earlier reported at Gbagi Police station.

    The case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Iyaganku, Ibadan, according to a source.

    The Public Relations Officer of the state police command, Adewale Osifeso, said that the case is under investigation.

    He added that updates would be provided accordingly.

    Osifeso in a short statement on Friday said, “The case is under investigation at the Homicide Department of the State Criminal Investigation Department of the Command. Updates would be provided accordingly, please.”

  • NAFDAC alerts Nigerians on recall of Nivea black & white deodorant

    The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued a warning regarding the recall of a specific batch of Nivea Black & White Invisible Roll-on Deodorant (50ml).

    This deodorant, which claims to provide 48-hour protection in African climates, is being recalled due to safety concerns.

    The affected batch (number 93529610) contains a chemical known as 2-(4-tert-Butylbenzyl) propionaldehyde (BMHCA), which is prohibited in cosmetics because it may harm the reproductive system, pose risks to unborn babies, and cause skin irritation or burns.

    NAFDAC released this notice following a warning from the European Union Rapid Alert System for Dangerous Non-Food Products in Brussels. The agency urged importers, distributors, retailers, and consumers to exercise caution and vigilance within the supply chain to prevent the importation, distribution, sale, and use of the affected Nivea Roll-on with the specified batch number.

    The notice stated: “The recalled Nivea product is reported to contain 2-(4-tert-Butylbenzyl) propionaldehyde, a chemical prohibited in cosmetic products due to its potential to cause harm to the reproductive system, impair the health of an unborn child, and cause skin irritation and burns to users.”

    The product is manufactured in Germany and has the Bar Code Number 42299882. NAFDAC advised the public to cease the sale and use of the affected batch and to submit any stock to the nearest NAFDAC office.

    Additionally, healthcare professionals and consumers are encouraged to report any adverse events related to the use of regulated products to the nearest NAFDAC office, via email at pharmacovigilance@nafdac.gov.ng, through the E-reporting platform available at www.nafdac.gov.ng, or via the Med-Safety application, which can be downloaded on Android and

  • NAFDAC warns against circulation, sale of unregistered Foula condoms

    NAFDAC warns against circulation, sale of unregistered Foula condoms

    By Chioma Obinna

    The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has warned Nigerians against the illegal circulation and sale of Foula condoms, an unregistered brand found on the market.

    According to NAFDAC’s Post-Marketing Surveillance Directorate, unregistered Foula condoms, packaged in threes, have recently been discovered in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, and Zango, Katsina State.

    In its Risk-Based Post-Marketing Surveillance study on registered condoms in Nigeria, the Directorate noted: “The condom is not registered by NAFDAC for use in Nigeria, and the product’s labeling is not in the English language.”

    The agency emphasized that condoms, when properly registered and used correctly, are effective in preventing unintended pregnancies and protecting against HIV and other sexually transmitted infections. However, the circulation of unregistered brands like Foula compromises safety, quality, and effectiveness, thereby increasing risks associated with condom failure.

    NAFDAC cautioned: “The purchase and use of poor-quality condoms adversely impact condom promotion efforts. If condoms leak or break, they cannot provide adequate protection.”

    NAFDAC has instructed its zonal directors and state coordinators to conduct surveillance and remove the unregistered products from circulation. It advised importers, distributors, retailers, healthcare professionals, and consumers to remain vigilant within the supply chain and only obtain medical products from authorized and licensed suppliers, carefully checking the authenticity and physical condition of products.

    The Directorate urged healthcare professionals and consumers to report any suspicion of substandard or falsified products to the nearest NAFDAC office,  or via email at sf.alert@nafdac.gov.ng.

    Additionally, NAFDAC encouraged the reporting of any adverse effects related to medical products or devices to their offices or through the E-reporting platform on the NAFDAC website at www.nafdac.gov.ng, or via the Med-safety app, available on Android and iOS stores, or by emailing pharmacovigilance@nafdac.gov.ng.

  • Police detain five suspects over alleged cybercrime in Benue

    Police detain five suspects over alleged cybercrime in Benue

    The Police Command in Benue has detained five suspects over alleged idenity theft and cyber fraud.

    This is contained in a statement issued by the command’s Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Sewuese Anene, and made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Makurdi on Friday.

    The statement said that the four suspects, whose ages range between 18 and 21, were apprehended by the Cybercrime and Narcotics Department of the Police Command.

    It said that the operatives following intelligence gathered on activities of the suspects raided their hideout in Makurdi and subsequently apprehended them.

    “Exhibits recovered from them include: three iphones, one small tecno phone and two other smartphones.

    “Further investigations revealed that the suspects had previously been engaged in impersonating people and using their identities to defraud unsuspecting persons of their belongings,” Anene said.

    She quoted the Commissioner of Police (CP), Mr Steve Yabanet, as warning residents to be wary of activities of cyber criminals.

    Yabanet also assured residents in the state of the command’s commitment to fighting crime.

    He warned individuals and groups involved in cybercrime in Benue State to desist from such acts or face the consequences of their action.

    The CP said that the suspects would be prosecuted on completion of police investigations.

  • Why Bobrisky was re-arrested in Lagos – EFCC

    Why Bobrisky was re-arrested in Lagos – EFCC

    The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has given reasons for re-arresting controversial crossdresser Idris Olanrewaju Okuneye known as Bobrisky.

    Speaking in a telephone conversation on Friday morning, the EFCC spokesman, Mr Dele Oyewale, said the self-styled ‘Mummy of Lagos’ was arrested because he refused to honour several invitations sent to him.

    Oyewale noted that the crossdresser was arrested in connection with the allegation of bribery against him.

    “We arrested him last night and we took him to Abuja because our team investigators are in Abuja,” the EFCC spokesman said.

    He continued: “He was trying to run away from mentioning those he said collected bribes from him. We sent him an invitation, but he refused to honour our invitation, and he was trying to leave the country.

    “This was why we arrested him. We want him to come and mention the names of the officials involved in the bribery, but he has not shown up.”

    The Guardian gathered Friday afternoon that Bobrisky has been flown to Abuja to answer questions relating to allegations of bribery and corruption.

    Bobrisky was stopped and removed from an Amsterdam-bound KLM flight at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos and detained by immigration officers late Thursday night while attempting to leave the country for London, the United Kingdom.

    The popular crossdresser posted on his Instagram page to alert followers about the arrest, stating that he had sustained injuries during an altercation with the immigration officers.

    Bobrisky alleged that the EFCC was responsible for his detention.

    He wrote, “Nigerians help me, EFCC just arrested me. I’m badly injured.”

    Bobrisky had, in a voice note shared by a controversial social critic, Martins Otse (aka VeryDarkMan) allegedly said he bribed EFCC officers with N15 million to drop money laundering charges against him.

    Although the EFCC denied the allegations, it set up a committee to investigate the matter.

    At a press briefing on Thursday, the Director of Public Affairs, Wilson Uwajaren, had hinted that Bobrisky could face a fresh charge from the commission if the allegations against the EFCC were false.

    Uwujaren stated that one could be charged for giving false information to the EFCC, let alone making false allegations against the commission.

  • Kogi HoS urges traditional rulers to promote unity, peace

    Kogi HoS urges traditional rulers to promote unity, peace

    Traditional rulers in the Kogi Central Senatorial District have been charged to use their positions as royal fathers to foster unity and peace in their respective domains.

    The Kogi State Head of Civil Service, Elijah Evinemi, gave the charge on Thursday during his tour of palaces of traditional rulers across the Ihima community in Okehi Local Government Area of the state.

    Evinemi said the royal fathers, being custodians of the culture and traditions of the people, have significant roles to play in ensuring absolute peaceful coexistence among the diverse clans in the community.

    The Head of Service, whose first point of call was the Ohi of Ihima’s palace in Ihima, told the first-class traditional ruler that the State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has been advocating for peace in Ihima and the entire state, noting that without peace, unity, and common understanding, no community can achieve the desired development.

    “I am paying this homage to all traditional rulers in Ihima today, first to formally present myself as the Head of Service appointed by His Excellency Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo and, secondly, to appreciate the governor for the favour done to Ihima people through this appointment.

    “I am also visiting the palaces to inform the traditional rulers that the current administration has a lot of developmental plans for the people of Ihima and, indeed, the entire Okehi Local Government. It is crucial that without cooperation and speaking with one voice as an indivisible entity, it will be difficult to achieve the development plans the government has for our people.

    “That is why I am passionately appealing to all the traditional rulers in Ihima to set aside any past grievances so that we can benefit from the rare opportunities God has presented to the people of Ihima in this dispensation.

    “It will also interest you to know, Your Royal Highness, that Ihima has a Senator, House of Representatives member, Commissioner, Special Advisers, Head of Service, and numerous other political appointees. This is the time we should unite so that we can collectively translate these appointments into the development of Ihima,” the HOS stated.

    Responding, the Ohi of Ihima, His Royal Highness Alhaji Ogido Abdulraheem, revealed that no clan in Ihima has been left out of the benefits from Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo’s administration, declaring that Ihima people have no reason not to cooperate and support the government.

    The royal father described the appointment of Mr. Elijah Evinemi as a round peg in a round hole, noting that Ihima community and its people would continue to be grateful to the governor for the appointment.

    “Without mincing words, Governor Ododo has done a lot for us. Currently, as I am speaking, there are constructions and rehabilitations of some township roads ongoing in Ihima, in addition to the political appointments the governor graciously offered to us. God will continue to bless him, the Head of Service, and all those working with the governor,” the royal father said.

    At the palace of the Idu of Oha, His Royal Highness Adai Salawu Hassan Aje commended the HOS for the visit, saying, “Anyone who believes in his origin and remembers home can never regret his actions.”

    He promised that, as traditional rulers, they would continue to ensure peace reigns in the community and appealed to all the appointees from Ihima to do their best in uplifting the image of Governor Ododo’s government.

    Also, at the palace of the Obobanyi of Ohionwa, the royal father, Dr. Jimoh Eneji Ahmed, assured the HOS that, as traditional rulers, they would join hands to ensure there is peace in Ihima town and thanked Governor Ododo for appointing their son as Kogi State Head of Service.

    The HOS visited other traditional rulers, including the Ohiomata of Odumi, Chief James Otaru; the Ogubanyibanyi Aninyere of Ihima, Chief Yakubu Sunday; the Ogasube of Ure of Ihima; the Obobanyi of Ohueta, HRH Omonori Zubairu; and the Ava’abe of Averehi of Ihima, among others.

  • Tweeps Attack Basket Mouth for Fixing German Show on Nigerian Election Day

    Comedian Bright Okpocha, popularly known as Basket Mouth ,has come under criticism by his tweeter followers and others on the social media platform for fixing a comedy concert in Hamburg, Germany on February 25 same day Nigeria Presidential and National Assembly Elections will hold

    While some described the move as insensitive and patriotic, others faulted it as taking his jokes too far.

    A Nigerian in diaspora tweeting under the name Obiologue @IsokoTolopia wrote
    “My girls bought me a Baskemouth show ticket for the 19th Feb as my birthday gift. I told them I shan’t go. You know why? I can’t be laughing at jokes from a JERK.
    I am vexed by people who see their country as a bout of a joke only but won’t lift a finger to help make it better”

    @honillate tweeted: “Rest, you’re actually being inconsiderate of your Nigerian fans at this point. No be everything be comedy”

    @Chima_Teey :”Selling tickets for a show on February 25th is selfish. No difference btwn you and those that selfishly sell their votes, and play footy on the streets on election day. Shameful!
    #CollectYourPVC”

    @DeCaptn: “Omoo see way back gutter guy wey God show mercy Don forget where his coming from. Like you don’t you have a responsibility to this country on the 25th Feb with your Huge fan base? Omo I’m shocked at what these gutters dey display these days o chia money oo”

    In a trending tweet, Okpocha wrote via his verified handle @basket_mouth thanking Hamburg for the love as tickets were almost sold out

    Joshua Okoria is a Lagos based multi-skilled journalist covering the maritime industry. His ICT and graphic design skills makes him a resourceful person in any modern newsroom. He read mass communication at the Olabisi Onabanjo University and has sharpened his knowledge in media practice from several other short courses.

     

  • Minimum wage: Labour calls for reversal of tax imposed on Kwara workers

    Minimum wage: Labour calls for reversal of tax imposed on Kwara workers

    The organised labour in Kwara State has appealed to the state government to reverse the new tax regime following the implementation of the new minimum wage of N70,000.

    The labour expressed disappointment over the move to effect a percentage on tax deductible from workers’ salaries, arguing that it is contrary to the negotiation with the government for tax relief for workers upon the payment of the new minimum wage.

    Rising from a joint State Administrative Council (SAC) meeting of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) in Ilorin last Thursday, the labour leaders called for a downward review of the tax percentage on salaries of workers.

    The labour said this in a joint statement signed by NLC Chairman, Comrade Muritala Olayinka; TUC Chairman, Comrade Olayinka Onikijipa; Coalition of Health Workers Union (COHESU), Comrade Isaac Bolatito; and state Chairman and Secretary, Joint Negotiation Council (JNC), Comrade Saliu Suleiman and Comrade Tunde Joseph respectively.

    They lamented the refusal of the state government to implement the new N70,000 minimum wage for pensioners in the state.

    The labour leaders urged the government to grant tax holiday to workers on the consequential adjustment of the new minimum wage of N70,000 for 12 months as succour.

    According to the joint labour congress, the state government should swiftly act on the demand of the labour to avert industrial disharmony.

    “This was at variance with government/labour discussion at the negotiation table for tax relief on added sum or status quo ante on the percentage tax deduction,” they said.

    “In view of the above, the committee resolved that government should grant tax holiday to Kwara State workers on the added sum for at least 12 months to serve as succour for workers in the state, and to review downward the tax percentage on workers salary.

    “Arising from the Joint SAC of NLC and TUC, we strongly condemned the recent tax imposed on Kwara State workers and demand reversal of it to avoid industrial disharmony.”

    Kwara State Governor Abdulrahman Abdulazaq last Saturday approved the payment of N70,000 minimum wage for the least paid worker in the state as announced by the Federal Government of Nigeria.

    The state Commissioner for Finance, Dr. Hauwa Nuru in a statement said that the approved wage will be implemented across the Kwara State public service, with immediate effect from October 2024.

  • Lagos trade fair testament to power of partnerships – Sanwo-Olu

    Lagos trade fair testament to power of partnerships – Sanwo-Olu

    Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has said that the Lagos International Trade Fair (LITF) is a testament to the power of partnerships in advancing economic prospects of large corporations and small businesses.

    The governor, represented by his Deputy, Dr Obafemi Hamzat, said this at the opening of the 38th LITF by the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) on Friday.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the yearly event with the theme: “Connecting Businesses, Creating Value” is a 10-day event.

    It is taking place at the Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos.

    According to Sanwo-Olu, in today’s world where connectivity is the backbone of growth, the fair is an opportunity for collaborations that will fuel innovations.

    He added that such innovations would have value for businesses.

    He said that Lagos, as the economic nerve centre of Nigeria and West Africa, was committed to playing a unique role in fostering connections among businesses of all sizes.

    According to him, all businesses whether homegrown startups, established multinationals or local artisans working to scale their enterprises, are welcome to the state.

    “Our mission is to position Lagos as a regional hub and a thriving global marketplace – one that harnesses the energy, resilience and ingenuity of its people to drive forward economic prosperity and sustainable development.

    “Our vision is to elevate Lagos as a global economic hub, where businesses from every corner of the world feel welcome and empowered as we believe that an interconnected Lagos is a prosperous Lagos.

    “This goal is why we are committed to enhancing our infrastructure, improving our business environment and ensuring that Lagos remains a safe, welcoming and efficient place to do business,” he said.

    The governor noted that the state in recent years embarked on projects aimed at improving infrastructure, transport systems and digital connectivity.

    Sanwo-Olu said that Lagos had made significant strides through digital transformation, simplification of regulatory processes, and various incentives for entrepreneurs in improving ease of doing business.

    He said that Lagos was also determined to fostering a culture of entrepreneurship and tech-driven growth by supporting incubators, accelerators and tech hubs to equip the state’s youths.

    “As we work toward building a sustainable future, Lagos is even more committed to promoting green business practices and renewable energy.

    “Lagos is open for businesses, and we invite our partners from across the world to seize the tremendous opportunities available in Nigeria’s largest market,” he said.

    The Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole, said that the trade fair showed the nation’s vibrant economic landscape and its unwavering commitment to fostering global trade partnerships.

    Oduwole, represented by Mrs Lucia Shittu, Chief Executive Officer, TBS Management Board, said that the fair was a reminder of immense potential in connecting businesses from around the world.

    She said that LITF offered a unique platform for entrepreneurs, investors and industry leaders to network, collaborate and explore new avenues for growth.

    The minister said that the President Bola Tinubu-led administration was dedicated to creating an enabling environment which would support businesses and drive economic development.

    She said that the administration had achieved significant milestones in promoting trade and investment, including trade policy reforms and investment promotion.

    “We understand the challenges that our nation has faced in recent times, and we are working tirelessly to implement policies that promote investment, enhance competitiveness and create jobs.

    “By connecting businesses, we are building bridges that foster understanding and cooperation.

    “By creating value, we are contributing to the overall prosperity of our nation and the well-being of our citizens,” she said.

    The President of LCCI, Mr Gabriel Idahosa, said that the trade fair was a means to foster economic cooperation, strengthen industry networks and enhance business connectivity within Nigeria and beyond.

    Idahosa said that governments’ participation in the fair demonstrated commitment to empowering the private sector to produce for local consumption and export.

    He added that the fair had become a veritable platform where state governments and federal parastatals showcased investment opportunities in states and programmes of impact.

    “This year’s fair holds special significance as Nigeria navigates an era of economic adjustment marked by challenges and opportunities.

    “We urge Nigerian businesses and entrepreneurs to seize the opportunity to network with international exhibitors, initiate distributorship deals, and foster trade agreements that will enhance their business value chains and diversify their product offerings.

    “I see this year’s trade fair igniting new ideas, creating lasting partnerships, and being a testament to the power of unity in pursuing economic transformation,” he said

  • Lagos Speaker presents official vehicles to senior legislative workers

    Lagos Speaker presents official vehicles to senior legislative workers

    The Speaker, Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, has presented official vehicles to legislative staff in the directorate cadre.

    This is contained in a statement issued by the Speaker’s Chief Press Secretary, Mr Eromosele Ebhomele, in Lagos on Friday.

    According to the statement, the presentation of the cars to the staff was the second in a row ,coming a few weeks after some senior legislative workers were given official cars.

    Obasa said the presentation was part of efforts of the House leadership to bolster productivity and service delivery to the legislative arm and the state.

    The Speaker said the beneficiaries include directors and deputy directors across the various departments and units that make up the Assembly.

    He said the occasion marked an important landmark in the determination to ensure effectiveness, encourage productivity and hardwork and ensure a conducive work environment for legislative staff.

    The Speaker noted that the House of Assembly had become a yardstick for measuring legislative prowess and excellence ,ensured by the result-oriented focus of the staff and management.

    “As a result of this, it is just necessary to boost this efficiency and keep the Assembly up there as the perfect example of legislative effectiveness that it has become in our democratic Nigeria.

    “We cannot falter or step down from the successes we have achieved so far. The Lagos Assembly has created that pathway in this democracy for the smooth running of the society.

    “We want to continue to have a House of Assembly that does not only have a conducive environment, but with staff who are always eager to meet the needs of the people of Lagos through inputs in pro-people legislation for which the House is poised.

    “It is pleasing to say that the vehicles would help the beneficiaries meet official needs and tasks and enhance our collective goals of making Lagos better each day,” he said .

    Responding on behalf of the beneficiaries, the Clerk of the House, Mr Olalekan Onafeko, commended the positive outlook and welfare-oriented posture of the leadership of the assembly, headed by Obasa.

    Onafeko, who doubles as Head of Service of the Assembly, said the vehicles would enhance productivity and encourage passion and commitment among staff.