PDP National Youth Frontier Calls For Release ,Justice , Fairness On Comrade Austin Okai

The detention of  People's Democratic Party PDP National Youth Frontier and convener, Comrade Austin Okai is an attempt to malign opposition in Kogi state and deserve urgent attention to stop the trend.

The PDPNYF maintained that the clamping into detention of the PDP House of Representatives candidate for Dekina/ Bassa in the 2023 general elections was the continuous muzzling of oppositions , and an attempt to truncate the growing popularity of the people's comrade , Austin Okai.

A statement issued on Sunday by the member of the caucus, Jerome Ali stressed the need to halt the Kogi state government from further embarrassing other members of other political parties in the name of defamation and cyber stalking in the state.

He described the detention by the Kogi state government teleguided legal pronouncement as a slap on democracy and it's norms.

While assuring the state government of victory for Comrade Austin Okai at the end, he said the attempt will not stop the opposition from demanding for accountability amidst misdemeanor of the common resources of the people of Kogi state.

Wike's Shuttles In Abuja

By Abubarka Yusuf

For Nzenwo Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory FCT, his vision and mission to transform the landscape of FCT and Improve on its existing facilities is non- negotiable.

In the last 22 months of this administration in FCT, from the provision of infrastructures to social security and economic development of the nation's capital had been his topmost priority.

His drive to address both economic and social security that is capable of ridden the FCT and it's area councils of criminals and criminal elements led to the donation of about 80 different brands of vehicles free of charge to residents of the city, as part of empowerment program under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the current dispensation.

The plans to make Abuja a modern and model city through the provision of uniform shuttle vehicles , buses and other high capacity vehicles to protect pedestrians , shuttlers and workers within and outside the FCT became sancrosanct.

In line with his policy thrust, promises and resolutions, in October, 2024 , the Minister of FCT, Nyesom Nzenwo Wike provided 80 pieces of vehicles to assist and enhance movement of pedestrians across the city and area councils.

The vehicles consisting of 30 Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs), 30 7-seater Suzuki Minibuses, and 20 14-seater Hiace buses—would provide employment opportunities for the youth and also reduce the cost of transportation in the FCT to security of commuters.

The Minister added that the brand-new vehicles were being provided by the government at no cost to the beneficiaries from across the six Area Councils of the FCT, to give them a source of livelihood and urged the beneficiaries to utilise the vehicles for the purpose which they had been provided and intended.

"The FCT Minister said, “These are brand new vehicles, and they are not paying a dime. We are not saying pay the government any money. The government is saying this is our own support to make sure you have something to feed, to make sure you can support your family, and also to reduce the cost of transportation in the city.”

"Barr. Wike also disclosed that the vehicles would be used as a pilot scheme to gradually phase out tricycle operations in parts of the Abuja city centre, adding that more vehicles would also be procured to address possible shortages."

While urging the public to disregard insinuation that 'Keke' will gradually be phased out of the nations city, he said rather than boosting the local economy , the present administration will not prevent residence from carrying out their lawful activities and means of living .

He said the new shuttle buses will be a graduation from were "Keke" will not be able to ply , so as to provide relief for different categories of FCT residents .

While convening the pilot scheme within Maitama, Asokoro, Guzape and other high brow areas were 'Keke' will no longer be in vogue, he promised to continue to create market for other alternative transportation in line with the lay down procedures.

The new brand vehicle policy was embarked to avoid both deliberate and government efforts not prone to sabotage from beneficiaries who may use the opportunity to delay users of the facilities on the road all in the name of 'fairly use' vehicle.

The provision of initial free 80 shuttle buses , will provide more affordable, cheap and secured transport system in the FCT and will gradually increase after the completion of terminals been constructed in the nation's centre and it's environs.

With these efforts, the activities of miscreants and criminals will be gradually reduced to the barest minimum through provision of jobs and employment opportunities to teeming Nigerians resident in the FCT.

Written BY ABUBAKAR YUSUF on yus.abubakar3@gmail.com.

Mato Condoles Gyado Family Over Loss Of Kenneth

... says his legacy will be always felt 

By Terfa Naswem 

Former member of the House of Representatives for Vandeikya/Konshisha Federal Constituency in Benue State and Co-Founder, Fidei Polytechnic, Gboko Benue State, Rt. Hon. Mrs. Dorathy Mato condoles the family of Gyado over the demise of Kenneth Tersoo Gyado.

He was born on the 24th September, 1971 into the family of Cyprian Liamgee Gyado from Ihugh, Mbadede, Vandeikya Local Government, Benue State. He was the first of three children. He died on 8th February 2025 at age 53 leaving his wife, three children and relatives behind.

His funeral mass was held at St. Winifred's parish, Ihugh, Mbadede, Vandeikya Local Government Council of Benue State while he was buried on Thursday, 27th February, 2025  his hometown, Tse-Gyado, Ihugh, Vandeikya.

Mato extolled late Kenneth as a man who was extremely loving and generous. He hated injustice and supported those who upheld the principles of togetherness and development. She said his legacy will always be felt.

Hon. Mato prayed God to grant Gyado family, friends and associates the fortitude to bear their irreplaceable loss.

Numbeve Extends His Deepest Condolences To Gyado Family Over Demise Of Kenneth

By Terfa Naswem 

Coordinator, Benue Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP), Hon. Steven Numbeve has extended his deepest condolences to the family of Gyado over demise of Kenneth Tersoo Gyado whose sudden death occurred on 8th February, 2025.

Numbeve while consoling the family at their hometown in Ihugh, Mbadede, Vandeikya LGA, Benue State before the funeral mass was held at St Winifred's Parish, Ihugh, he resounded the momentous impact late Kenneth made on the lives of the Benue All Progressives Congress, APC family, his various groups formation in support of the campaign of the Executive Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia when he was contesting for governor in the 2023 gubernatorial election.

He reflected on so many positive impact late Kenneth made on the lives of many people including him, and said he will be enormously missed.

Late Kenneth was born in 1971 and died in 2025 at age 53 and was buried on Thursday, 27th February, 2025. He left behind his wife, three children, mother, siblings and relatives.

He encouraged the wife, children, relatives, friends and associates of late Kenneth to continue to hold firm in the infallible God in this darkest moment and He will give them divine consolation through Christ Jesus our Lord.

NNN PG, Salisu Lauds Tinubu, Omo -Agege over Medical University establishment in Kwale

 By Williams Ode 

The leadership of Ndokwa Nation ably led by Comrade Chief Amechi Asugwuni, President General of Ndokwa Nation (NNU) and others notable leaders in Ndokwa nation has expressed their profund gratitude to former President Muhammadu Buhari for approving the university’s establishment after Omo-Agege lobbied for it  and worked tirelessly for the approval. 

They also , commended President Bola Tinubu for supporting the university with a takeoff grant, demonstrating his administration’s commitment to the Ndokwa Nation.

Speaking at the university’s groundbreaking ceremony on Monday last week on this day, held at its permanent site between Kwale and Emu-Ebendo, the stakeholders of the Ndokwa nation applauded Omo-Agege’s efforts in securing the specialized medical institution and pledge allegiance to support the university with enably environment for smooth takes off.

Dr. Salisu who spoke, at the university ground breaking ceremony,described the university as a major milestone, emphasizing its importance not just for Delta State but for the entire South-South region. “Today is a testimony of Senator Omo-Agege’s efforts. He lobbied for this university, and while five others were created at the same time, this institution stands out significantly,” 

Dr. Salisu, said, the Federal University of Medical Sciences Kwale  in Delta State has remove Ndokwa nation from shame while commended Omo-Agege for championing the institution’s establishment, stating that it represents the beginning of real development for the Ndokwa people. “For too long, our people have faced stagnation, but today, that chain has been broken. This university is a game-changer, and we are hopeful that more developmental projects will follow,” 

He stressed , " the university is not limited to Delta State but is a regional institution meant to serve the entire South-South.

 “All states in this region are stakeholders, and it is our collective responsibility to rally support for its development and successful takeoff,” he added.

Also speaking, Vice Chancellor Prof. Abel Nze Onunu, in his welcome address, highlighted the university’s significance, noting that it marks the first major federal government presence in Ndokwa land. “Before now, the only notable federal structure in this area was a colonial prison. For decades, Ndokwa has suffered neglect, and today, Kwale still lacks public power supply despite the numerous oil wells in the region,” 

Oh his part , in a   remarks by  Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, who served as Deputy President of the 9th Senate, expressed his profound joy in witnessing the project come to life. He described the university’s establishment as a reflection of his unwavering commitment to development and transformation in Delta State.

According to him, “As Deputy Senate President, my passion for service and vision for a better future drove me. Today, we take a giant leap towards realizing that vision,” 

Omo-Agege emphasized that,  the university will provide quality education in medical and health sciences, drive economic growth, foster innovation, and create job opportunities for Ndokwa people. He extended heartfelt appreciation to President Buhari for his visionary leadership and initial approval of the project, as well as to President Tinubu for ensuring its smooth takeoff.

“I want to express my deepest gratitude to President Muhammadu Buhari for his visionary leadership and for giving the initial approval for this university. Your commitment to education and development is truly commendable, and we are grateful for your support.

“I also want to express my heartfelt appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering commitment to the establishments 

“Under President Tinubu’s leadership, the university is receiving the necessary funding for success. His administration’s approval of this institution, alongside other tertiary institutions, underscores his commitment to expanding educational opportunities and securing a brighter future for Nigerian students,” Omo-Agege said.

He further reiterated that, " Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda  administration is dedicated to enhancing access to tertiary education nationwide. “We are proud to see this vision become a reality in Kwale,” he added

Northern Union, 72 Other Arewa Groups Back Tinubu's Tax Reform Bills

 ... Lauds Senate Committee Chairman.

By Dansu Goldmark 

The Northern Union and 72 other Arewa groups have announced their support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's Tax Reform Bills.

This endorsement comes on the heels of a Senate public hearing, where stakeholders gathered to discuss the proposed legislation.

According to the Northern Union, the Tax Reform Bills align with their organisation's values of promoting economic growth, fairness, and simplicity.

The President of the group, Alhaji Adamu Muazu Garuba, said the proposed legislation will streamline tax administration, reduce compliance costs, and promote investment in key sectors.

Speaking on behalf of the groups after a public hearing in the Senate, Garuba commended the Senate Committee Chairman, Senator Sani Musa for his professional conduct throughout the hearing. 

Garuba further praised Musa for displaying the highest level of accountability, neutrality and impartiality by ensuring that all Nigerians were heard.

"The benefits of the Tax Reform Bills to the North are numerous. A simplified tax system will attract investments, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth," Garuba said. 

" The reduction in compliance costs will ease the burden on taxpayers, enabling them to invest in their businesses and communities. Additionally, the increased revenue generated from the reforms will enable governments to fund critical infrastructure projects and social programs.

"The Tax Reform Bills will also promote fairness and equity in the tax system, eliminating multiple taxation and reducing the tax burden on low-income earners.

"This will promote social justice and reduce poverty in the region. Furthermore, the reforms will promote transparency and accountability in the tax system, building trust between governments and the people."

In particular, Garuba said that the Tax Reform Bills will have a profoundly positive impact on the North.

He added: "A simplified tax system will attract investments, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth in the region. This, in turn, will lead to increased economic activity, improved living standards, and reduced poverty levels.

"As the North is a significant contributor to Nigeria's economy, the benefits of the Tax Reform Bills will be felt across the country. The reduction in compliance costs will also ease the burden on taxpayers in the North, enabling them to invest in their businesses and communities.

"This will be particularly beneficial for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which are the backbone of the Northern economy. By reducing the tax burden on SMEs, the Tax Reform Bills will promote entrepreneurship, innovation, and job creation in the region.

"The increased revenue generated from the reforms will also enable governments in the North to fund critical infrastructure projects and social programs.

"This will help to address the region's developmental challenges, such as inadequate healthcare, education, and transportation infrastructure. By investing in these critical areas, the North will be better equipped to unlock its economic potential and improve the lives of its people."

Garuba, however, has urged all northerners to support the Tax Reform Bills, emphasising that these reforms are in their best interest.

He stated: "We urge all northerners to join us in supporting the Tax Reform Bills. These reforms are in our best interest and will promote economic growth, fairness, and simplicity.

"We must work together to ensure that these reforms are passed into law and implemented effectively. We also call on our lawmakers to expedite the passage of the Tax Reform Bills.

"We urge them to put aside their differences and work together to pass these critical reforms. The fate of our region and our people depends on it. Finally, we commend President Tinubu for his leadership and vision in proposing these reforms."

Leadership Crisis: Lagos Assembly Absolves Remi Tinubu of Involvement, , Meets With APC Excos

By Dansu Peter 

The Lagos State House of Assembly has strongly denied any involvement of Nigeria's First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, in the ongoing leadership crisis within the legislative body.

In a statement issued on Tuesday by the House spokesperson, Olukayode Ogundipe, the lawmakers distanced the President's wife from speculation suggesting she was backing the ousted Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa.

"The Lagos State House of Assembly categorically dissociates all its members from this false and baseless claim. The report is purely a fabrication and has no basis in truth,” the statement read.

The lawmakers emphasized their deep respect for the First Lady, acknowledging her past role as First Lady of Lagos State and her current contributions to national development.

"It is, therefore, inconceivable that any member of the Assembly would accuse her of involvement in legislative matters or seek to tarnish her reputation. We firmly state that the First Lady has no role in any internal disagreements within the House. Any attempt to link her to these issues is entirely unfounded,” the statement added.

Meanwhile, some lawmakers on Tuesday met with the executives of the Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to provide updates on the situation in the Assembly.

The State Chairman of the APC, Cornelius Ojelabi, confirmed the meeting in a post on X, stating that the party’s State Working Committee received members of the Assembly to discuss recent developments.

Speaking further, the party's Publicity Secretary, Seye Oladejo, described the meeting as a routine briefing.

"It was just a courtesy visit to brief the party about what’s happening at the House, nothing more than that. And whatever is going on in the House, our position remains that it has to be resolved by the House,” Oladejo stated in a telephone interview.

The Lagos Assembly’s firm stance on the issue aims to quell any misinformation and reaffirm its autonomy in handling internal matters.

15years After, CSO Seeks Probe Report, Prosecution of Asabe Waziri Over Death Of Pregnant Woman

By Dansu Peter 

A civil society organisation, Justice and Equality For All Movement has staged a peaceful protest to the Federal High Court, Abuja, to demand the release of a probe report and prosecution of Ms Asabe Waziri, over the death of a pregnant woman, Mrs Shitua Aso. 

The movement, led by Barrister Moses, Aham Akano, said the incident which took place in 2010 cannot be statue barred. 

He said it's a criminal matter amd the long arm of the law is always ready to catch up with anyone that runs foul of the law. 

We are here to call on the Inspector-General of Police, Mr Kayode Egbetokun to release an investigative report of the  murder allegedly committed by one Asabe Waziri in 2011.

"According to the letter of demand for the report written to the IGP,  we are asking the him to release its investigative report on the matter.  

"We have as long asked the court to order the IGP to release police report on the matter. 

"Apart from being in court, we also want to bring the attention of the public to this because for 15years, family of the late Shitua Aso, who was pregnant at the time of the! Incident needs justice.  

"We are in court to ensure the law takes its course and to get justice for the late pregnant woman, Shitua Aso.  We are in court to follow the legal way to mandate the police to release its investigative report which was carried out 15years ago. We are saying justice must be done because an injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere. 

"Asabe Waziri should not frustrate the process of the court with her application to join in the matter. What we need is justice for late Shitua Aso, who was pregnant at the time of her death. 

"Nigerias are crying, the world is crying amd all we want is justice. The case is not statue bar, we are crying for justice for the late pregnant woman".

In May 2024, Global Integrity Crusade Network, GICN, also wrote the IGP, asking for the report saying the investigation in the matter must not be swept under the carpet.

The petition, signed by the Publicity Secretary of GICN, Leticia Omeiza, stated that failure of the police to make public the report, GICN shall institute an action in court to compel the IGP to release the report.

According to GICN, the case should be re-open for the family of the victim to get justice.

Parts of the petition reads, “Research took us to the National Library of Nigeria where we uncovered a story tagged “Woman hit with car by opponent” on Page 57 of the Sunday Trust newspaper dated 30th May. 2010. Certified True Copy (CTC) of the newspaper is attached as APPENDIX 1.

According to the story, a woman named Mrs. Shitua Aso had accompanied her sister Mrs. Nonto Ogunyinka to the FCT Police Command, Garki 2, Abuja in a controversy involving Mrs. Ogunyinka and one Miss Asabe Waziri. It was reported that Police had settled the dispute between Mrs. Ogunyinka and Miss Asabe Waziri, whereupon both women left with the intention of going to their respective houses but exchanged unpleasant remarks along the stairway.