At least 48 Nigerian nurses under investigation for exam fraud in the UK have been ordered to leave the country, despite pending appeals, Nursing Times has reported.
The UK Home Office issued deportation letters to some of the affected nurses, instructing them to leave as early as next week. This follows an investigation by the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) into 515 nurses who took their Computer-Based Test (CBT) at a test center in Ibadan, Nigeria. The NMC flagged this center due to suspected fraudulent activities, raising concerns about the legitimacy of their exam results.
The CBT is a mandatory requirement for foreign-trained nurses to obtain a UK nursing license. While the NMC has cleared some candidates, others remain under scrutiny, with over 160 nurses still facing doubts about their qualifications. Despite some nurses insisting they followed due process, the Home Office has revoked the visas of several individuals, leading to fears of mass deportations.
Many of these nurses are already employed in NHS hospitals, and their sudden removal could impact the UK healthcare system. Advocacy groups and legal representatives argue that innocent nurses should not suffer due to a systemic failure. The NMC has assured that each case will be reviewed individually, and those who prove their legitimacy will be allowed to remain.
This controversy has sparked concerns about Nigeria’s reputation in the global healthcare sector. Medical professionals worry that future Nigerian applicants may face stricter scrutiny, making it harder to secure jobs abroad. With investigations still ongoing, affected nurses remain in limbo, facing uncertainty over their careers and their ability to stay in the UK.
Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has appointed Messrs Samuel Badekale and Haroun Adebakin, who emerged as the best graduating students of the University of Lagos during the institution’s 55th convocation, as the Education Ambassadors of the State.
The governor also presented them with cheques of N10m each to appreciate their efforts.
Speaking while receiving the duo in his office at Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, the governor said that by scoring a Grade Point Average of 5.0, they not only made the state proud but also set themselves on the path of greatness.
According to the governor, his administration would continue to honor individuals who made the state proud in their chosen careers to serve as motivation for others to discover their full potential.
He said: “I want to commend you for achieving this great honor for yourselves, your families, the state, and Nigeria, because it is not enough that you come from Ogun State and are flying Ogun State’s flag.
“We are going to appoint you as our Education Ambassadors. It is our hope that other up-and-coming students, those who are still in school, will see you and find motivation in you, allowing them to emulate your good virtues.
“You have to think about how you can support and motivate them. As our Education Ambassadors, we are going to develop programs where you can actually go to schools and talk to them because it will be easier for you to communicate with them.
“I can talk to them, but I may not be able to communicate with them effectively. However, when you speak to them, you will be able to connect because they can identify with you as you are of the same wavelength and age bracket, and you can relate to what they are going through, including their pains and issues.
“I congratulate you as our Education Ambassadors, and I don’t want you to be too far away from the Commissioner for Education so that whatever career path you choose, we can support you in achieving your potential and all that you aspire to.
“But today, we will be supporting you with small cheques of N10m each—just a token of our appreciation to you and your parents for what you have accomplished in making Ogun State proud.”
Governor Abiodun expressed delight that despite the decadence in society, some young men and women remain committed, deliberate, diligent, and intentional about their academics by choosing the right path as a means of emancipation.
The governor, who described education as a pathway to success and a means to eradicate poverty, said it provides respect and a platform upon which one can build to become successful in life.
“It gives you the platform and passport that allows you to apply for different opportunities, whether job opportunities, master’s programs, among others. It is what helps you in the process of determination,” he added.
He noted that their academic success was beyond the ordinary, as their perseverance, consistency, and discipline have helped them achieve the targets they set for themselves.
“You set a target for yourselves and decided that you would not settle for second place but strive for the very best. I must say that this is the Ogun State spirit, and I am not surprised that both of you, in the same year and department, studied the same Cell Biology and Genetics. You have both chosen to pursue a very abstract discipline that requires a lot of intellect, and you have not just excelled, but excelled very well. You graduated with a 5.0, the top of your class,” he said.
Ogun State, the governor noted, is blessed with eminent personalities who have excelled in their chosen professions. “This is the blood that flows in you. I am impressed and excited that you are living up to expectations,” he added.
He mentioned that his administration has repositioned the education sector by introducing various reforms, such as the Revitalization Agenda with a learner identification system, adding that the state has a Learner Identification Number that keeps track of the number of students, a development which he said has attracted attention from other states of the federation.
He lauded the parents of the best graduating students for the values instilled in their children and the sacrifices they made to ensure they are educated, emphasizing that their reward would be the success of their children.
Speaking, Adebakin and Badekale expressed their gratitude to the governor for the honor bestowed upon them, stating that their recognition is a testament to the governor’s commitment to improving the education sector in the state.
They advised the youth to focus on their studies and shun activities that could tarnish their family names, saying, “You can be successful and recognized without engaging in fraud and other unwholesome practices, just as we are being celebrated today by the governor.”
Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has approved the appointment of board members for some agencies of government as part of moves to strengthen the governance process in the state.
The newly constituted board members are those of the Local Government Service Commission, Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM), Judicial Service Commission, Agricultural Development Commission, and the Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Agency (TRACE).
The Local Government Service Commission retained Olubukonla Onabanjo as chairman. Other members of the Commission are Hon. Lukman Olufemi, Martins Adekoyejo Ijaduoye, Olatunde Azeez Osunbiyi, and Olatunde Rasaki Rufai.
The Teaching Service Commission has Apostle Abiodun Sanyaolu as chairman. Other members are Olanrewaju Majekodunmi, Deola Akintonde, Hon. Ademola Adeleye, Adebajo Adesegun, Hon. Adeleke Salmon, Hon. (Mrs.) Atinuke Bello, and Hon. Kemi Oduwole.
Rt. Hon. Suraj Adekunbi heads the House of Assembly Commission, with Samuel Odukoya, Alhaji Fasiu Ajadi, and Hon. Folakemi Akintayo as members.
The Judicial Service Commission has Hon. Justice M.A. Dipeolu as chairman. Other members of the Commission are Hon. Justice Femi-Segun Olusola, Mr. Olusina Ogungbade (SAN), Mrs. Oyinkansola Cole, Adeyemi Olumuyiwa, Dr. Saheed Oyede, and Adesola Ayoola Elegbeji.
Mr. Ifede Joshua (chairman), Alhaja Faidat Sarumi, Saheed Animashaun, Oluwaseun Adebowale, Hon. Musulumi Salako, Balogun Adebayo, Taofik Kashimawo, Otunba Olumuyiwa Sobambo, and Barrister Awodele Sunday are members of the Agricultural Development Commission.
Yemi Adelani is the chairman of the Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Agency. Other members are Hon. Bankole Akanbi, Hon. Mosunmola Oladipo, Ajani Babatunde, Olumide Emmanuel, Hon. Taye Whepetoji, Barrister Olumide Oduwole, Opaleye Rafuu, Hon. Olusegun Bankole, and Sunday Akinyemi.
A former member of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon. Kehinde Subair has been reported dead.
The cause of his death has not been announced as at the time of filing this report.
The news of his death is currently making rounds on the internet with party fellows and well wishers mourning his demise.
Hon. Kehinde Subair was a two-term member of the Oyo state house of Assembly from 2011 to 2019. He was the former Majority Leader under the platform of the All Progressive Congress, APC.
The ex lawmaker born on the 21st of March, 1965, died 7 days to his 60th year birthday
The Oyo State House of Assembly has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the activities of the state-owned Pace Setter Transport Services (PTS).
This decision was made after the House Committee on Transport presented its interim report, which revealed several concerns, including the lack of a legal framework guiding the operations of PTS.
The Committee, chaired by Hon. Babajide Adebayo, was given a two-week ultimatum to interface with PTS management and officials.
The report highlighted that the Sole Administrator, Dr. Oladeji Salami Ibrahim, had recruited 106 additional staff without proper authorization.
The Deputy Speaker Hon. Muhammed Fadeyi countered the claim that PTS is an independent agency, stating that the House has the constitutional right to investigate any agency funded by taxpayers’ money.
Hon. Dele Adeola praised Governor Engr. Seyi Makinde for upgrading PTS to alleviate transportation costs following the fuel subsidy removal.
The Speaker, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, instructed the Committee to conduct a thorough investigation into PTS, focusing on staff auditing, operations, and finances, including state government subventions and revenue generation.
The Speaker also urged the executive arm to establish laws governing PTS through the Ministry of Justice.
“This investigation will also examine state government subventions to the Pacesetter Transport Services and the revenue generated by the company. This becomes imperative towards ensuring transparency and accountability in the operations of PTS.” Oyo Speaker said
With deep gratitude and immense appreciation, we extend our heartfelt thanks to Chief (Engr.) Jubril Dotun Sanusi for his unwavering commitment to peace, unity, and progress within the JDS political movement. His visionary leadership and relentless dedication to humanity continue to inspire and bring together individuals from all walks of life, strengthening the foundation for a greater political future in Oyo State.
We also extend our profound appreciation to Hon. Arole Gbenga Adewusi and Hon. Adeyemi Kazeem, whose selfless efforts and peace-making initiatives have played a significant role in fostering harmony and unity within our movement. Their ability to mediate, reconcile, and build bridges of understanding is truly commendable, and we recognize them as vital pillars in ensuring the continued growth and stability of our collective political aspirations.
A special prayer of goodwill and appreciation goes to Alhaja Abegbo Lawal, whose tender and peaceful approach to leadership has been instrumental in uniting the various JDS groups across Oyo State. Beyond being a leader, Abegbo Lawal is a mother, a mentor, and a builder of people, tirelessly nurturing individuals and preparing them for greater political responsibility. Her ability to identify, support, and elevate emerging leaders within our movement is a testament to her selfless nature and unwavering commitment to the growth of our political structure. May Almighty Allah continue to bless her with wisdom, strength, and long life to keep guiding us toward a brighter future. Furthermore, we extend our deep appreciation to Hon. Adeyemo Amosun and several others for their understanding, trust, and love in the leadership of Jubril Dotun Sanusi. Their loyalty and belief in the cause have contributed immensely to the solidarity and resilience of our political family. The spirit of togetherness and commitment they have displayed is an assurance that our collective political future is strong and promising.
Lastly, to all inclusive JDS groups, we acknowledge your steadfast followership, unwavering trust, and relentless dedication to the movement. Your belief in Dotun Sanusi’s leadership and political ideology fuels the strength of our cause. Together, we will continue to work for a better, inclusive, and progressive Oyo State, driven by justice, fairness, and service to humanity. May our unity remain unshakable, and may we continue to grow stronger, together In valuable decision making.
Justices Ladiran Akintola, O.S. Adeyemi, K.B. Olawoyin, G.A. Sunmonu of the Oyo State High Court and Justice Nkeonye Maha of the Federal High Court, sitting in Ibadan. Oyo State, have convicted and sentenced thirty-two persons to prison for fraud.
They were prosecuted by the Ibadan Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on separate one-count charges bordering on impersonation, internet-related offences.
The charge against Akinlosotu reads: “That you, Kolade Olayinka Akinlosotu sometime in May, 2023 at Ibadan, Oyo State, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, with intent to defraud one Orlando Mejia, did falsely represent yourself as one Amanda Smith, a woman from Texas, United States of America through Facebook with account name Amanda Smith, thereby committed an offence of impersonation, contrary to Section 484 of the Criminal Code Cap 38, Laws of Oyo State, 2000.”
They all pleaded “guilty” when the charges were read to them, upon which prosecution counsel, Modupe Akinkoye, Oluwatoyin Owodunni, Chidi Okoli, Sanusi Galadanchi, Lanre Suleiman, Mabas Mabur, Shamsuddeen Bashir, David Olubode and A.M. Aliyu prayed the court to convict and sentence them accordingly.
Consequently, Justice Olawoyin convicted and sentenced Peter to two years imprisonment or to pay N500, 000.00 (Five Hundred Thousand Naira) fine, and Ayodeji to one year imprisonment or to pay N250, 000.00 (Two Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira) fine, while Justice Maha convicted and sentenced Abayomi to one year imprisonment or to pay N250, 000.00 (Two Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira) fine.
Justice Adeyemi on her part, convicted and sentenced Oriyomi and Ibrahim to one year imprisonment each without option of fine. Ayobami, Abdullahi and Ayinde bagged six months community service each, without an option of fine. She convicted and sentenced Ojo, Mustapha and Adebesin to three months community service each without option of fine.
Justice Akintola convicted and slammed Oladimeji, Joseph and Olaoluwa with one year jail term each or to pay a fine of N50, 000.00 (Fifty Thousand Naira, N40, 000.00 (Forty Thousand Naira) and N150, 000. 00 (One Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira) respectively.
He slammed Adeniyi with six months jail term or to pay N150, 000.00 (One Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira) fine, while Jelili bagged six months community service or to pay N150, 000.00 (One Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira) fine. Michael and Olamide got three months jail term each or to pay N50, 000.00 (Fifty Thousand Naira) fine, each.
Also convicted and sentenced by Justice Akintola were Kehinde Emmanuel, Babajide, Sodiq, James, Salam, Yakub, Omolade, Oluwanifemi Emmanuel, Agbaminoja, Okiki Michael and Friday who bagged three months of community service each or to pay N50, 000.00 (Fifty Thousand Naira), N50, 000.00 (Fifty Thousand Naira), N75, 000.00 (Seventy-five Thousand Naira), N50, 000.00 (Fifty Thousand Naira), N75, 000.00 (Seventy-five Thousand Naira), N40, 000.00 (Forty Thousand Naira), N50, 000.00 (Fifty Thousand Naira), N40, 000.00 (Forty Thousand Naira), N40, 000.00 (Forty Thousand Naira), N30, 000.00 (Thirty Thousand Naira) and N50, 000.00 (Fifty Thousand Naira) respectively.
Furthermore, Justice Akintola convicted and sentenced Matthew and Damilola to a fine of N30, 000.00 (Thirty Thousand Naira) and N50, 000.00 (Fifty Thousand Naira) respectively.
Justice Sunmonu convicted and sentenced Akinlosotu to three months community service without an option of fine.
Besides their sentences, all the convicts forfeited items recovered from them to the federal government. These include money, phones and laptop computers. Others are a green-coloured Toyota Camry 2205 model car with registration number: EPE – 232 – GU recovered from Oriyomi, a wine-coloured Toyota Camry vehicle with registration number: MUS – 84 – GU recovered from Ibrahim, a red-coloured Toyota Corolla car with chassis number: 2T1BU4EE3AC495391, recovered from Olaoluwa, a black-coloured Toyota Camry car with registration number: MUS – 683 – HJ, recovered from Adeniyi and a golden-coloured Toyota Camry vehicle with chassis number: 411BE46KX8U203665 recovered from Abdullahi.
In addition, the court ordered that Ayobami pay the sum of N2.5million (Two Million, Five Hundred Thousand Naira) as restitution to his victim. Visit www.efcc.gov.ng for more stories
Members of the Lagos State House of Assembly have arrived at the State House in Abuja for a crucial meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The meeting is seen as a significant development in the ongoing political crisis within the Assembly.
As of the time of filing this report, the legislators, who arrived in two coaster buses, had been granted access to the President’s office area, where they awaited their turn to engage with Tinubu.
Among those present were both the reinstated Speaker of the Assembly, Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, and the recently ousted Speaker, Hon. Mojisola Meranda. Their presence at the meeting signals an attempt to resolve the leadership tussle that has gripped the legislative body in recent weeks.
Meranda, who was removed from office and replaced by Obasa following a high-stakes power struggle, arrived with her colleagues a few minutes past 2 p.m. However, Obasa made a separate entrance at approximately 2:50 p.m., adding to speculation about the divisions within the Assembly.
It would be recalled that Hon. Obasa was impeached as Speaker by a majority of his colleagues but was later reinstated following the intervention of key political figures, including the influential Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC). Despite his reinstatement, sources indicate that tensions remain high among lawmakers, and the lingering discord has yet to be fully resolved.
The purpose of the meeting with President Tinubu remains undisclosed, but insiders suggest that efforts to restore harmony and ensure legislative stability in Lagos State are top on the agenda. Political analysts believe that Tinubu’s intervention could be decisive in quelling the unrest and fostering unity within the Assembly.
The Lagos State government has confirmed a diphtheria outbreak at King’s College, Victoria Island Annexe, leading to the death of a 12-year-old student and the hospitalisation of 14 others.
Authorities have identified 34 close contacts of the deceased and placed them under observation.
Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, stated that the index case, a 12-year-old boy, developed a sore throat and fever on February 22. He was referred to Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), where he received treatment but succumbed to myocarditis, a severe diphtheria complication, on March 6.
Following his death, 14 students developed symptoms and were transferred to LUTH for screening. Twelve tested positive for early signs of diphtheria and are receiving antibiotics and diphtheria antitoxin serum. All are reported to be recovering.
In response, the state government has activated an Emergency Response Committee and will begin a mass vaccination campaign targeting schoolchildren and healthcare providers. Nearly 500,000 doses of diphtheria vaccine will be deployed to high-risk areas, and infection prevention measures will be strengthened at King’s College.
Public awareness campaigns are also underway, urging residents to recognize symptoms such as sore throat, fever, difficulty breathing, and swollen neck glands. The Lagos State government is working closely with federal health agencies and the WHO to contain the outbreak.
Prof. Abayomi reassured residents that the situation is under control and emphasized the importance of good hygiene, avoiding crowded places, and seeking immediate medical attention if symptoms appear.
