NEWS
Nigeria @64: We must Renew our Dedication to Fostering National Unity and Social Harmony – CAN.
By Laide Akinboade, Abuja
Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, on Tuesday, said it is imperative for all Nigerians to renew their dedication to fostering national unity, no matter the tribe, religion and work together to build the nation.
Archbishop Daniel Okoh, President, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), stated this in Abuja in his goodwill message in commemoration of the 2024 National day celebration.
He said though there has been a significant progress in addressing the security challenges posed by terrorism and banditry, but Nigerians must remain vigilant and continue to support the initiatives that promote safety .
The CAN President, also said the government should focus on infrastructure development, economic growth, and youth empowerment, in order to address the nation’s economic challenges.
According to him, “I joined other well wishers I extend heartfelt greetings to all Nigerians as we celebrate our nation’s 64th Independence Anniversary. This momentous occasion offers us a profound opportunity to reflect on our journey as a nation, to acknowledge our achievements, and to commit ourselves anew to the ideals of unity, peace, and progress.
“Our beloved nation, Nigeria, stands as a shining example of the strength found in diversity. Despite the challenges that have tested our resolve, we continue to demonstrate resilience and a shared commitment to the common good. As we reflect on our history, let us renew our dedication to fostering national unity and social harmony. It is imperative that, regardless of our religious affiliations, we embrace peaceful coexistence and work collaboratively to build a future marked by mutual respect and understanding.
“In recent years, we have witnessed significant progress in addressing the security challenges posed by terrorism and banditry. These threats have deeply affected many communities, including Christians, and we commend the efforts of our security forces in safeguarding our nation. However, we must remain vigilant and continue to support initiatives that promote safety and security for all Nigerians, ensuring that every citizen can live without fear.
“Social justice remains a cornerstone of our national aspirations. We must address the pressing challenges of education, employment, and equitable opportunities for all. These issues impact Christian communities and every segment of our society. By prioritizing education and creating employment opportunities, we empower our youth and lay the groundwork for a prosperous future.
“Religious freedom is a fundamental right that underpins our national ethos. As we celebrate our independence, let us reaffirm our commitment to mutual understanding and mutual respect. This is essential not only for Christians but for all religious groups in Nigeria. A society that values and respects religious diversity will undoubtedly thrive in unity and peace.
“Our national development agenda must continue to focus on infrastructure development, economic growth, and youth empowerment. These initiatives are crucial for the advancement of Christian communities and the nation as a whole. By investing in our infrastructure and empowering our youth, we pave the way for sustainable growth and a brighter future for all.
“As we mark this 64th Independence Anniversary, let us remain courageous, hold fast to hope, unity, and a shared vision for a better Nigeria. Together, we can overcome the challenges before us and celebrate the richness of our diverse heritage. May God guide us towards lasting peace and prosperity”.
NEWS
Kebbi Gets New Head of Service
The Kebbi Government has appointed Malami Muhammad-Shekari as the substantive Head of Civil Service of the state.The Chief Press Secretary to Kebbi Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Idris, made this known in a statement in Birnin Kebbi on Friday.Idris said the appointment had been conveyed to Muhammad-Shekari in a letter dated Nov.
1.He added that the appointment took effect from Oct. 28.“The Executive Governor of Kebbi State, His Excellency, Dr Nasir Idris, FCNA (Kauran Gwandu), has approved the appointment of TPL. Malami Muhammad Shekare (mni) as the substantive Head of the Civil Service with effect from 28th Oct. 2024,” Idris quoted the letter as stating. (NAN)NEWS
APC Stalwart Faults Ex-Kogi Gov’s Trial
All Progressives Congress (APC) Stalwart Isaac Onuh and a former Ambassador to Botswana has faulted the trial of former Kogi Gov. Yahaya Bello over corruption charges.In a news conference on Friday in Lokoja, Onuh described Bello’s trial as an “unfortunate witchhunt”.The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has, on Thursday, asked a Federal High court in Abuja to begin the trial of Bello in his absence.
The anti-graft agency has also filed a 19-count charge bordering on money laundering to the tune of N80 billion. But Onuh alleged that the anti-corruption agency was harassing and intimidating the ex-governor.He said that Bello deserved to be respected by government agencies, including EFCC, having served the state for eight years.He alleged that the EFCC had yet to provide ample evidence to substantiate its allegations of financial impropriety against Bello.He noted that Kogi was governed by laws made by the state House of Assembly which established the state anti-corruption commission that consistently gave clean bill to Bello during his administration.But the EFCC insisted that it asked Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court sitting in Maitama, Abuja, to proceed with the trial of Bello in absentia, arguing that his non-appearance in court for arraignment should not be allowed to frustrate his trial.The EFCC through its lead counsel, Kemi Pinheiro, SAN, also urged the court to enter a plea of “not guilty” on behalf of Bello.According to EFCC, Bello is facing trial on 19-count charges bordering on money laundering to the tune of N80.2billion.It notes that the court had summoned him for arraignment six consecutive times.Pinheiro noted that the former governor’s refusal to appear for his arraignment was malicious and that the court should not demonstrate helplessness by not trying him in absentia.(NAN)NEWS
Ebonyi: Police Arrest 4 Suspected Organ Harvesters, 173 Others
The Nigeria Police command in Ebonyi said it arrested no fewer than 177 suspected criminals for various offences in the month of October, 2024. The Command noted that four out of the 177 suspects were alleged to be involved in human organ harvesting and ritual killings. DSP Joshua Ukandu, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) disclosed this in a news conference in Abakaliki on Friday.
Ukandu explained that officers and men of the command arrested a total of 177 suspects which includes 162 males and 15 females. “92 suspects among them have been charged to court, while others would be arraigned once investigations are completed. “On behalf of the Commissioner of Police Ebonyi Command, CP Anthonia Uche-Anya, I want to warmly welcome you to this press conference “I am here to update you on the Command’s achievements within October 2024 and our relentless efforts to combat crimes and ensure a safe and prosperous environment for socio-economic growth in the State. “The command has employed strategic steps through increased stakeholders engagement to help bring crimes to the barest minimum. “Through this approach, we have been able to reduce the incidences of violent crimes, while operatives of the command are not relenting in our efforts to make the state safe for all. “During the month under review, the command arrested 162 males and 15 females, totalling 177 suspects for various offences. 92 suspects have already been charged in court, while others will be arraigned once investigations are complete,” Ukandu explained. On the alleged organ harvesting and ritual killings, the Command’s Spokesman said that on October 11, Mrs Blessing Chikezie reported to the command of her missing husband, Mr Idenyi Chikezie, who left home on September 9 for a business trip to Lagos. “Command operatives from the Anti-kidnapping unit, through a painstaking investigation and credible intelligence, arrested one Innocent Elebe and Eze Elechi; they made useful statements, which led the police to arrest Obinna Nwanguru and Oda Peter. “They confessed to killing Chikezie Idenyi, Chibu Odii and Eze Fabian on different dates while trying to extract their blood/ organs to use it to cure a cognitively impaired person (Down syndrome). “Operatives of the command have recovered the corpses of Chikezie Idenyi and Chibu Odii while effort is ongoing to recover the remains of the third victim,” Ukandu stated. Some other suspects were arrested for kidnappings, murder, robbery and unlawful possession of firearms. (NAN)