NEWS
NLC Launches CNG Buses for North Central States in Kogi

From Joseph Amedu, Lokoja
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in collaboration with its Central Working Committee (CWC), have launched the North Central Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses given to them by the federal government.
Speaking at its official inauguration in Lokoja, the NLC President, Joe Ajero said that the 10 CNG buses given to Kogi state would ease transportation for workers.
Ajero stressed that the collaboration was a significant step towards improving the lives of workers and residents of the state.
The NLC President urged the state government to complement the initiative by establishing gas re-filling stations for the CNG buses in the state for the benefits of the workers and the people.
“We want the state government to complement our effort and adopt the CNG development in Kogi for the benefits of workers and the entire residents of the state,” he said.
Ajero commended the state government and labour union for maintaining industrial harmony which has guaranteed peace and development in the state.
He also commended the state government for being worker-centric in all its programmes and policies, especially the prompt implementation of the new minimum wage and regular payment of workers’ salaries in the state.
He however called for recruitment of more health workers and teachers especially in basic and secondary schools, saying there was shortage of manpower as workers were retiring on daily basis.
He further appealed to the state government to critically look into the issue of gratuity arrears, and take a concrete step towards clearing its backlogs.
In his remarks, Gov Ahmed Ododo commended the NLC for the initiative and for choosing Kogi as the flagship state for the North Central region to benefit from the gesture.
The governor, who was represented by his Deputy, Elder Joel Salifu, assured the NLC President that the state government would look into union’s requests in a bid to addressing them.
“We came out of the union and we belong to the union and the grassroots. We are for the grassroots and we are ready to serve the people.
“We have maintained a peaceful and cordial relationship with the labour and we will continue to improve on it.
Ododo noted that his administration had appointed over 10 labour leaders in the cabinet of the state government which had been yielding great results in prioritising workers’ welfare in the state.
“We deeply appreciate your decision to establish the base for CNG buses in the North Central Region here in Kogi State.
“This initiative will undoubtedly improve inter-and intra-state mobility, especially for the most vulnerable in our society.
“Let me assure you that our administration, will continue to prioritize the welfare of workers, sustain industrial harmony, and create an environment where every worker feels valued and empowered.
“Together, we will build a better and more prosperous Kogi State and contribute to the progress of Nigeria as a whole,” he said.
Earlier, the state NLC Chairman, Gabriel Amari said in CNG buses would be significant development that promises to improve transportation in the state.
According to him, the initiative would enhance the workers’ performance and make a positive impact for effective service delivery in the state.
Our Correspondent reports that the highlight of the occasion was the unveiling of 10 CNG buses by the governor for the North Central States.
NEWS
Police Officer Commits Suicide in Ogun

The Police Command in Ogun State has confirmed a police officer, Insp Ajele Oloyede, allegedly shot himself in the Igbesa area of the state.
The command’s spokesperson, CSP Omolola Odutola, confirmed this in a statement issued to journalists in Ota, Ogun state, on Sunday.He said before who the tragic incident at about 1:20 p.
m. on Friday, the deceased officer was on special duty at Goodwill Ceramic Company,“According to preliminary reports, Tolorunloju Stephen, an officer attached to the Force Headquarters Annex, Lagos,who was also on special duty at the company.
“He had just returned from Ikeja when he entered the security office.
“He found Oloyede resting his head on a table.
After exchanging pleasantries and briefly inquiring about his well-being, Oloyede responded positively.“Shortly after, Stephen proceeded to the restroom but moments later heard a gunshot.
“Rushing back, he found Inspector Oloyede lying in a pool of blood.”
Odutola said that with the assistance of private security personnel, the injured officer was immediately rushed to Ota General Hospital, where he was confirmed dead by the attending doctor.
She added that the firearm used in the incident had been recovered, and the officer’s body had been deposited at the hospital for an autopsy.
“The Ogun state police command has launched an investigation into the tragic death of Inspector Oloyede, who was reported to have shot himself while on special duty at Goodwill Ceramic Company, Igbesa,” Odutola said.
She noted that the Commissioner of Police had ordered a full-scale investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident, including the possibility of foul play or mental health concerns.
Odutola assured that the police swiftly contacted the deceased officer’s family.
According to her, the case will be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Eleweran, for a thorough investigation.
She extended the Nigeria Police Force’s deepest condolences to the officer’s family, colleagues, and loved ones.
“The command remains committed to the well-being of its officers and will ensure all necessary support is provided during this difficult time,” she added.
NEWS
We Didn’t Borrow to Accomplish Achievements in 3 Years – Gov Soludo

Gov. Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State has said that his administration achieved significant progress in infrastructure and human capital development in three years without borrowing money.
Soludo made the disclosure on Sunday during a thanksgiving Mass at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Awka, ahead of the celebrations marking his third anniversary in office on March 17.
He said: “I express my gratitude to the Almighty God because it is a journey ordained by God.
Tomorrow, March 17, we will be three years in office.“Three years ago, we applied for this job and you employed us based on trust. Looking back on the promises we made, it is fair to say so far, so good.
“We have commissioned over 750 kilometers of roads, with more than 400km already completed. Additionally, we have recruited over 8,000 teachers and rehabilitated public schools to enhance the education sector.
“We achieved remarkable progress in youth empowerment, agriculture, security, and the health sector. Today, Anambra is leading in health in Nigeria.
“We have done all these without borrowing one kobo in three years.
The governor said his goal was to transform the state into the Dubai, Taiwan, and Silicon Valley of Africa, leveraging its abundant resources and exceptional human capital.
“We still have one more year left in this tenure, and I want to assure you that we will continue working diligently every single day to fulfill the promises we made to you.
“So far, we are on track to laying the foundations for realising the Anambra of our dreams,” he said.
Soludo thanked residents for their support and prayers.
Earlier in his sermon, Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Bishop Matthew Kukah, said that serving as a governor, senator, or bishop is a sacred contract with both God and the electorate.
According to him, it is a form of stewardship, where one is entrusted with duties that demand accountability to the people and adherence to personal principles.
Kukah praised Gov. Soludo for his accomplishments over the past three years and for his expression of gratitude to God.
“I’m from Kaduna State, but I must admit I’m jealous of the progress in Anambra. You have consistently had governors who leave their unique mark in terms of good governance.
“Anambra is a state with great men and women like Cardinal Francis Arinze, late Chinua Achebe, Chimamanda Adichie, late Dr Alex Ekwueme and many others. And I’m happy that Gov. Soludo is consolidating on the gains.
“I have seen some of the projects by Gov. Soludo and I commend him. These are projects that will improve the quality of life of the people.
“I pray that your agenda for securing the people, for education, health, women and youth empowerment will be achieved by God’s Grace for the betterment of the people,” Kukah said.(NAN)
NEWS
6 Die as Truck Rams Into Vehicles, Pedestrians in Onitsha

The Police Command in Anambra has confirmed that six people died in a multiple-vehicle accident on Saturday at Upper Iweka axis of Onitsha, the commercial hub of the state.
The command’s Public Relations Officer(CPRO), SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said in a statement on Sunday that the police had taken over the accident scene to maintain order and facilitate investigations.
“According to eyewitness accounts, the accident occurred due to the loss of control of a truck, which rammed into pedestrians, two tricycles, and a commercial bus loaded with passengers,” he said
Ikenga noted that the crash claimed six lives, while several others sustained injuries and were currently receiving treatment at the hospital.
He added that the bodies of the deceased had been deposited in the morgue.
He added that some relatives of the victims had been contacted and informed about the incident.
Ikenga said that the command extended its condolences to the families and friends of the deceased and wished the injured a swift recovery.
He urged drivers to conduct necessary safety checks before plying the roads to prevent such tragic incidents.
The CPRO assured the public that further updates would be provided as investigations progressed (NAN)