The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria has launched a scathing critique of the retiring Chief Justice of Nigeria, Hon. Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, describing his tenure as the worst in the country’s judicial history.
According to HURIWA, Ariwoola’s leadership was marred by allegations of nepotism, corruption, and a blatant disregard for fairness and justice, severely damaging the judiciary’s credibility.
The association pointed to several instances of nepotism, including the appointment of Ariwoola’s brother to a key position at the National Judicial Council and the judicial appointment of his son to the Federal High Court.
HURIWA warned that these actions have set a dangerous precedent, influencing other judicial leaders to engage in similar behaviour, and undermining the integrity and independence of the Nigerian judiciary.
Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun is now the new Chief Justice of Nigeria, CJN.
President Bola Tinubu who returned to the country at the early hours of this Friday, administered the oath of office on her at the council chamber of the state house.
The 66-year old who emerges the second female CJN, succeeds Olukayode Ariwoola who retired from the position yesterday Thursday after berely two years.
The National Judicial Council (NJC) had recommended the appointment of Justice Kekere-Ekun, the next most senior justice of the apex court, as the next CJN.
Justice Kekere-Ekun was elevated to the Supreme Court of Nigeria as the 5th female Justice of the Court and was sworn in July 2013.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has said the former governor of Kogi state, Yahaya Bello must be made to face the law as he is currently charged with money laundering, breach of trust, and the misappropriation of N80.2 billion, during his time as governor.
The anti graft agency made this known on Thursday, during an interview on News Central TV.
Speaking at the interview, Spokesman for EFCC, Dele Oyewale said they had declared Bello wanted after multiple attempts to arrest him were unsuccessful and are unaware of his current location.
THE WHISTLER had reported that the Court of Appeal, Abuja on August 20, 2024, ordered Bello to appear before it for arraignment on corruption charges brought against him by the EFCC.
Reacting to the judgement, Oyewale said “the court of appeal is just to amplify the position of the commission and also to establish the fact that we are focused concerning his matter”.
“We are collaborating with both local and international law enforcement agencies to ensure Bello’s arrest.
“As it is now, Yahaya Bello cannot come into the open. He cannot make himself available anywhere because he has become a fugitive, and we all know the instruments of the law.
Anywhere he is sighted, he would be arrested,” Oyewale said.
Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has instituted a N500m soft loan scheme for artisans and traders across the state.
The governor, who announced this at the 2023 International Community Day and World Trade Day celebration held at the M.K.O. Abiola Stadium, Kuto, Abeokuta, said the soft loan, which would be tagged “Oko’wo Irinse Dapo,” would be given to traders and artisans within 30 days after modalities had been worked out.
Abiodun acknowledged the contributions of traders and artisans to the economic development of the state, adding that his administration would not neglect them, as they had been worthy partners in realizing the ‘Building Our Future Together’ agenda
He said: “In fulfilment of the promise I made in the year 2022, which was to provide N500 million in soft loans for the artisans that we call Okowo Irinse Dapo, I have instructed the Commissioners for Finance, Trade and Investment, as well as Community Development and Cooperative, to work out the modalities for disbursement of this loan.
“The N500 million is available for disbursement. However, we need to work out the details of how this disbursement will be made, and I have given them one month to ensure that our artisans and trade unions begin to benefit from this disbursement.”
The governor also announced the disbursement of grants and subventions to community development associations and area, zonal, and senatorial development committees across the state.
“Today, over 200 Community Development Associations will receive grants ranging from N200,000 to N5 million.
“Additionally, subventions and administrative grants will be allocated to 437 Area Development Committees, as well as 20 Zonal Development Committees and three Senatorial Community Development Committees, namely the Ogun State Community Development Council and the Ogun State Trade Council,” the governor added.
He disclosed that the revolving loan is part of his administration’s initiative that will soon be unveiled to have an Ogun Youth Empowerment and Entrepreneur Scheme tagged OG-YES, adding that it would enable the government to provide loans and grants to various individuals in the State.
The initiative, the governor noted, is part of his government’s contribution to support the efforts of the Community Development Associations and to acknowledge their selfless services in ensuring that communities across the State receive the desired infrastructure for development.
Governor Abiodun maintained that the occasion provided the government with the opportunity not only to recognize the invaluable contributions of communities and other valuable stakeholders but to appreciate them for their communal efforts, which have led to increased economic and social activities in their areas.
“Your support for government programs and activities reflects a strong sense of belonging and a strong sense of partnership in our shared relations to advance the development of the State in line with the ‘Building Our Future Together’ agenda.
“Today’s occasion is not just to celebrate your efforts and dedication to serving your various communities but to acknowledge your commitment to bridging the gap between the government and the people,” he said.
While assuring that the government would continue to strengthen the community development associations, trades, and artisans for improved service delivery, the state helmsman also assured that his administration’s policies and programs would continue to be people-oriented and community-driven in terms of project selection, implementation, and maintenance.
Commissioner for Community Development and Cooperative, Alhaji Balogun Ademola, in his welcome address, lauded the state government for its supportive role in the development of the communities, imploring the community development associations to continue partnering with the government to make life better for all.
The Chairman, Community Development Council, Chief Taiwo Lucien, noted that communities are built on mutual respect between the government and the people, appreciating the governor for granting the CDAs a marching grant, as well as providing palliatives to the people to cushion the effects of the fuel subsidy withdrawal.
He applauded members of various communities for making this year’s celebration the best, assuring that the CDAs will continue to work with the government for the development of the state.
The highlight of the celebration was the conferment of Grand Patron and Patron on the governor and the Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Dapo Okubadejo.
A 20-year-old construction worker identified as Adeshina Adewale has been accused of raping a woman in the Itori area of Ewekoro Local Government, Ogun State.
The incident reportedly took place on Wednesday, August 14, 2024, while the woman was suffering from abdominal pain.
According to reports, the victim’s mother, Abiodun Odunlami, who runs a food business in the area, had left her daughter in charge of the shop while she was away.
Due to late sales that night, the lady decided to spend the night in her mother’s makeshift room near the shop.
Adewale, a regular customer, had earlier come to the shop to buy food but was informed that it was sold out. Later that night, he returned, claiming that his company’s gate was locked and he needed a place to sleep.
The lady, trusting him as a longtime customer, gave him the key to a nearby shop.
However, at around 3 am, Adewale allegedly entered the room where the woman was sleeping and raped her.
Four days after the incident, he reportedly returned and apologised, expressing remorse for his actions.
Odunlami said, “He came to our shop to buy food, but my daughter informed him that it was sold out, so he left. Much later that night, he returned, telling my daughter that his company’s gate was locked and he needed a place to sleep.
“Since he had been a longtime customer, my daughter gave him the key to a shop near where we sleep. We had no idea he harboured ill intentions towards her. He left the shop and, at around 3 am, entered my room and raped my daughter.
“He didn’t show up until four days later and began apologising, saying he didn’t know what came over him and expressing remorse for what he had done.”
The victim’s mother further revealed that the suspect tossed her daughter with ₦2,000 after committing the crime.
In the modern history of Ibadanland, few names have continued to resonate with the people of the ancient city and one of them is the legendary Salami Agbaje. From the pioneering achievements of Salami Agbaje, a shrewed businessman and philanthropist, to the distinguished contributions of his descendants to Medicine and Law, the Agbaje legacy is unarguably one of enduring service to the people of Ibadanland and beyond.
Today, the flag of that legacy is being flown at even a higher altitude no less a person than Akeem Agbaje, a man deeply rooted in his heritage and driven by a vision to elevate Oyo State, nay humanity, to new heights.Salami Agbaje, the patriarch of the Agbaje dynasty, was a trailblazer in every sense of the word. As one of the wealthiest and most influential figures in pre-independence Nigeria, he made significant contributions to the socio-economic development of Ibadan. His entrepreneurial spirit was matched only by his commitment to humanitarian causes, as he invested heavily in education, healthcare, and infrastructure. Salami Agbaje was a man who came ahead of his time, using his resources to uplift his community and lay the foundation for future generations.His influence extended beyond business; he was a man of the people, known for his generosity and deep concern for the welfare of his fellow humans.
He built schools, provided scholarships and supported numerous community projects, all of which had lasting impacts on the lives of countless number of people. His legacy of giving back to the community was a proof to his belief that wealth should serve the greater good of the greater number of people, a principle that has continued to guide his descendants.Agbaje family’s contributions to Nigeria’s development did not end with Salami Agbaje, as his descendants have continued to build on his legacy, particularly in the realm of law and justice.
Akeem Agbaje’s father, was a towering figure in Nigeria’s judiciary. Known for his integrity, fairness and deep legal acumen, he made significant contributions to the development of Nigeria’s legal system in all ramifications. His rulings and judgments have left an indelible mark on the nation’s jurisprudence, while his commitment to justice and the rule of law has inspired many within and beyond the legal community.
Akeem Agbaje, following in the footsteps of his forebears, has established himself as a respected legal practitioner. His career is distinguished by a deep commitment to justice and the welfare and well-being of the people. With a reputation for fairness and a keen understanding of the law, Akeem has consistently demonstrated a dedication to upholding the principles that his family has long championed.
As Oyo State now stands at a crossroads, the need for visionary leadership has never been greater. Akeem Agbaje’s aspiration to govern Oyo State is a natural extension of his family’s legacy of service and his personal commitment to the well-being of the people. He brings to the table not only a rich heritage of humanitarian service and legal expertise but also a clear vision for the future of the state.His vision for Oyo State is one that prioritizes development, transparency and inclusive governance. Drawing inspiration from his grandfather’s entrepreneurial spirit and his father’s dedication to justice, Barr. Akeem Agbaje is committed to creating an environment where every citizen of Oyo State can attain their respective potentials and thrive. He understands the importance of economic empowerment, the need for robust infrastructure and the critical role of education in driving sustainable development.His track record as a legal practitioner and community leader has equipped him with the skills and experience necessary to navigate the complexities of governance. Akeem Agbaje is not just a candidate with a famous name; he is a leader with a deep understanding of the challenges facing Oyo State and a strong resolve to address them.As Oyo State looks to the future, it needs a leader who understands its past, committed to its present and has a clear vision for its future. Akeem Agbaje is that leader. His deep respect for tradition, combined with his forward-thinking approach to governance, makes him the ideal candidate to lead Oyo State to a brighter, more prosperous future. He is surely ready to serve.
A 58-year-old man who embarked on 19 days of spiritual fasting has died.
The death of the yet-to-be-named man was confirmed by the Police Command in Lagos State.
Superintendent of Police Benjamin Hundeyin who serves as the spokesperson of the command on Tuesday, August 20, said the incident happened in Alagbado axis of Lagos State.
According to Hundeyin, the religious man died at about 6:00 am on Monday, August 19.
The Police spokesperson also stated that the younger brother of the deceased reported the incident at the Alagbado Police Division at about 7:00 pm on the same Monday.
From an account of the younger brother, the deceased died while allegedly undergoing 19 days of dry fasting.
“No foul play suspected, family demands to convey the corpse for burial,” the Lagos Command spokesperson said.
The Oyo Hospitals Management Board has announced that it has concluded its first stage of recruitment process by announcing the shortlist of a total of 1,250 candidates from the 5,000 applications received for an forthcoming Computer Based Test.
According to the Board, the decision to announce the shortlist follows a comprehensive review process involving representatives from the Head of Service, Civil Service Commission, Ministry of Establishment and Training, and the Oyo Hospitals Management Board.
The shortlisted candidates are set to sit for the MCQ on Thursday, where their professional competence and knowledge of current affairs will be assessed. From the initial pool of applicants, 1,000 were deemed professionally qualified for the examination.
Dr. Akin Fagbemi, in his chat with Correspondent of Oduduwa News had affirmed that the delay in conducting the exam was for administrative convenience and to ensure that the most qualified are recruited.
“We are ensuring that not only qualified applicants are selected, but that the entire process adheres to the necessary protocols, especially considering the critical nature of healthcare,” he stated.
Dr. Fagbemi also expressed gratitude to Governor Seyi Makinde for his continuous support throughout the recruitment process.
He urged all applicants to check their email addresses and mobile phones for important updates regarding the examination details.
Ogun State has joined the league of rice-producing states in the country with the flagging off of the harvest of 200 hectares of farmland at Magboro Rice Farm in Obafemi-Owode Local Government Area of the state.
The farm is the brainchild of the Ogun State Economic Transformation Project, supported by the World Bank and aimed at driving economic growth and development in the state.
Speaking on the occasion, Governor Abiodun said that with the flag-off, Ogun State is not only joining states like Lagos, Kebbi, and Bayelsa in producing locally grown rice for the consumption of the people, but also fostering economic development, creating jobs, and improving livelihoods within the communities.
He said: “This is a 200-hectare rice farm. The farmers are mainly women and youths from all parts of the country and not just from Ogun State alone.
“Each farmer was allocated one hectare of farmland; this means that we have 200 farmers in this cluster. This project started in April this year. They began planting in May, and today we are already harvesting, making it a three-month cycle. It means that we can do this three times a year.’
Abiodun noted that the farm, with a seven metric ton yield per hectare, could translate to 1,400 metric tons for 200 hectares of milled rice with an efficiency yield of about 70 percent, which would also translate to about 20,000 bags of milled rice per cycle.
“20,000 bags of milled rice per cycle should be estimated to cost about N1 billion. So, these 200 farmers, made up of women and youths across the country who farm here in just three months, have a revenue of N1 billion. If they do this three times this year, they will earn N3 billion. We have no business being hungry in Nigeria.
“In this place, I have 12,500 hectares of land, and all we have farmed is 200 hectares that yielded N1 billion for 200 farmers. From here, I can feed the rest of the country. We will scale up this project immediately from 200 to 2,000 hectares.
“We can generate N30 billion in revenue. We can take significant steps towards realizing that vision of making Ogun State the food basket of this country,” he added.
The governor stated that the project is in line with President Bola Tinubu administration’s resolve to eradicate poverty and hunger by providing affordable food to Nigerians, adding that the project, apart from increasing rice production, would also address animal husbandry.
Governor Abiodun emphasized that the state is blessed with adequate manpower and natural resources, stating that agriculture remains an important agenda of his administration as it provides employment and raw materials for the numerous industries that abound in the state.
He said the OGSTEP Agricultural Sector Intervention will provide critical support, including advanced agricultural techniques, access to quality seeds, modern irrigation systems, and technical training for farmers, adding that the approach is offered to beneficiaries at a 65 per cent discount on the cost for each mechanization operation.
While lauding the people, especially members of the communities, for supporting the project, the governor promised that the farm would be provided with solar pumps to power the boreholes, as well as modern drones for effective pest control.
Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Hon. Bolu Owotomo, said the project is in tandem with the agricultural policy of the Abiodun-led administration: ensuring food sufficiency for the people.
The Economic Adviser, who is also the Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Dapo Okubadejo, while commending the farmers for their determination, noted that the project is part of the agenda of producing food locally to feed the populace.
The Project Coordinator, Mrs. Mosun Owo-Odunsi, said the project, which aims to produce high-quality rice, would positively impact the lives of citizens in all sectors, appreciating the governor for providing the necessary support.
In his goodwill message, the Olu of Magboro, Oba Modiu Alalade, acknowledged the great impact the project has on the communities in the area, stating that the town has enough farmland to accommodate more farmers to produce sufficient food for the country.
Ogun State Government has declared Tuesday, August 20th, as public holiday to celebrate this year’s Isese day, in line with Dapo Abiodun-led administration’s firm belief in religious inclusivity.
According to a statement signed by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Strategy, Hon. Kayode Akinmade, the work-free day will allow traditional worshippers across the State to commemorate their special day.
The statement added that Ogun State remains an exemplary federating unit with enviable level of religious cohesion and harmony, even in the face of diversity.
It, therefore, urged traditional worshippers in the state to celebrate in moderation and respect the right of others religions in the course of celebration, so as to sustain the inherent culture of religious tolerance in the State.
The statement also charged the adherents to use the special festive period to pray for peace and economic advancement in Ogun State and Nigeria at large, adding that prayers contribute immensely to the success of every nation.
