A 42-year-old woman, Titi Solano, who was docked for allegedly damaging another woman’s property valued at N80,000, was on Wednesday admitted to a bail of N50,000.
Solano was said to have unlawfully and maliciously damaged the walls, doors and electrical appliances belonging to one Alhaja Halimat Ashake.
Titi, who was arraigned before Mrs Olumide Fusika of the Yaba Magistrate’s Court on a one-count charge, however, pleaded not guilty.
The prosecutor, Sgt. Ajayi Emmanuel, alleged that Solano committed the crime on Nov. 1, noting that it contravened Section 451 of the Criminal Code of Lagos State.
The magistrate adjourned the case till Dec. 21.
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Man arraigned for allegedly assaulting mother, son
The police in Lagos on Wednesday arraigned a 33-year-old man, Kunle Idowu, for allegedly assaulting a woman and her son.
Idowu is standing trial before a Yaba Magistrate’s Court in Lagos on charges of conspiracy, carrying a lethal weapon, threatening violence, assault and conduct likely to cause breach of the peace.
Police Prosecutor Chinedu Uwadire told the court that the accused, with others now at large, on Nov. 13 at Olorunfunmi Str., Oworonsoki, Lagos, assaulted Mrs Toyin Olorode.
The prosecutor told the court that the accused and his gang also assaulted her son Kazeem by using cutlass to in inflict injury on his neck and mouth.
Uwadire said the accused threatened to kill their victims with the cutlasses they were wielding.
The prosecutor said the offence committed contravened Sections 80, 86, 249 (d), 355 and 516 of Criminal Code Law of Lagos State.
When the accused pleaded not guilty, the Magistrate, Demi Ajayi, granted him bail in the sum of N50, 000 with two sureties in like sum.
Ajayi consequently adjourned the case till Dec. 8.
Idowu is standing trial before a Yaba Magistrate’s Court in Lagos on charges of conspiracy, carrying a lethal weapon, threatening violence, assault and conduct likely to cause breach of the peace.
Police Prosecutor Chinedu Uwadire told the court that the accused, with others now at large, on Nov. 13 at Olorunfunmi Str., Oworonsoki, Lagos, assaulted Mrs Toyin Olorode.
The prosecutor told the court that the accused and his gang also assaulted her son Kazeem by using cutlass to in inflict injury on his neck and mouth.
Uwadire said the accused threatened to kill their victims with the cutlasses they were wielding.
The prosecutor said the offence committed contravened Sections 80, 86, 249 (d), 355 and 516 of Criminal Code Law of Lagos State.
When the accused pleaded not guilty, the Magistrate, Demi Ajayi, granted him bail in the sum of N50, 000 with two sureties in like sum.
Ajayi consequently adjourned the case till Dec. 8.
Magistrate remands suspected robber in prison custody
An Ebute Meta Magistrate’s Court in Lagos on Wednesday remanded a 23-year-old man, Osita Agbom, in Ikoyi Prison over his alleged involvement in armed robbery.
Magistrate, M.O. Olajuwon ordered that the accused, whose plea was not taken, be remanded in custody pending legal advice from the office of the Director of Public Prosecution.
Agbom is facing charges of conspiracy and armed robbery.
The prosecutor, Ezekiel Ayorinde, told the court that the offence was committed on Sept. 19 at No 19 Okachie St., Ajangbadi, Lagos.
Ayorinde said whilst armed with cutlass and other dangerous weapons, the accused and others at large robbed Promise Ofor, a caterer, of her handbag.
The prosecutor said the stolen property had a total value of N110, 950.
Ayorinde said the offence contravened Section 6 (b) and was punishable by Section 1 (2) (a) of the Robbery and Firearms (Special Provisions) Act, Laws of the Federation.
Olajuwon adjourned the case till Jan. 24, 2011for mention.
Magistrate, M.O. Olajuwon ordered that the accused, whose plea was not taken, be remanded in custody pending legal advice from the office of the Director of Public Prosecution.
Agbom is facing charges of conspiracy and armed robbery.
The prosecutor, Ezekiel Ayorinde, told the court that the offence was committed on Sept. 19 at No 19 Okachie St., Ajangbadi, Lagos.
Ayorinde said whilst armed with cutlass and other dangerous weapons, the accused and others at large robbed Promise Ofor, a caterer, of her handbag.
The prosecutor said the stolen property had a total value of N110, 950.
Ayorinde said the offence contravened Section 6 (b) and was punishable by Section 1 (2) (a) of the Robbery and Firearms (Special Provisions) Act, Laws of the Federation.
Olajuwon adjourned the case till Jan. 24, 2011for mention.
Court seals off 12 apartments in Lagos for being dirty
A Grade “A” Customary Court in Shomolu, Lagos, on Wednesday ordered the sealing-off of 12 apartments at 9, Laulah Ibrahimo Str., Bariga.
The court took the action following the refusal of the 12 occupants of the apartment to appear before the court over alleged environmental nuisance.
The affected tenants have on three occasions refused to honour summons to appear in court. They were summoned on Nov. 1, Nov. 8 and Nov. 24.
However, six other tenants who honoured the court summons on Nov. 1 were each fined N500 when they pleaded guilty.
Court President, Modupe Bajulaiye, while ordering the sealing-off of the apartments, said while six of the tenants had been appearing in court the others refused.
Earlier, the prosecutor, Iyabowale Okeowo, who is the Health Officer, Bariga Local Council Development Area , urged the court to deal decisively with the affected tenants.
Felicia Kehinde, wife of the deceased landlord, who is also an occupant, told the court that the affected tenants were duly informed of the court order.
Bajulaiye, however, adjourned the case till Nov. 29 for continuation.
In a related development, the Court President threatened to commit to jail four tenants of 10, Jebina Str., Bariga, who were brought to court on bench warrant, for contempt of court.
The tenants had also earlier refused to heed summons to appear before the court for environmental nuisance in their premises.
Bajulaiye, however, gave each of the four tenants who pleaded not guilty to contempt, an option of a N5,000 fine.
The Health Officer earlier told the court that the landlord and tenants needed to be fined for failure to appear in court.
The case has been adjourned till Nov. 29 for further hearing.
The court took the action following the refusal of the 12 occupants of the apartment to appear before the court over alleged environmental nuisance.
The affected tenants have on three occasions refused to honour summons to appear in court. They were summoned on Nov. 1, Nov. 8 and Nov. 24.
However, six other tenants who honoured the court summons on Nov. 1 were each fined N500 when they pleaded guilty.
Court President, Modupe Bajulaiye, while ordering the sealing-off of the apartments, said while six of the tenants had been appearing in court the others refused.
Earlier, the prosecutor, Iyabowale Okeowo, who is the Health Officer, Bariga Local Council Development Area , urged the court to deal decisively with the affected tenants.
Felicia Kehinde, wife of the deceased landlord, who is also an occupant, told the court that the affected tenants were duly informed of the court order.
Bajulaiye, however, adjourned the case till Nov. 29 for continuation.
In a related development, the Court President threatened to commit to jail four tenants of 10, Jebina Str., Bariga, who were brought to court on bench warrant, for contempt of court.
The tenants had also earlier refused to heed summons to appear before the court for environmental nuisance in their premises.
Bajulaiye, however, gave each of the four tenants who pleaded not guilty to contempt, an option of a N5,000 fine.
The Health Officer earlier told the court that the landlord and tenants needed to be fined for failure to appear in court.
The case has been adjourned till Nov. 29 for further hearing.
Court adjourns hearing in N22.55b Union Bank debt
Justice Mohammed Idris of the Federal High Court, Lagos, on Tuesday adjourned till Dec. 1 further hearing in the case filed by Union Bank of Nigeria against Mr Jimoh Ibrahim, an industrialist, over an alleged N22.55 billion debt.
Others joined in the suit were NICON Investment Ltd, Global Fleet Oil and Gas Ltd, Nigeria Reinsurance Corporation Plc, NICON Insurance Ltd and Union Registrars Ltd.
The bank claimed that it granted N41.27bn credit facility to the defendants for a period of 12 months which expired on Jan. 30, 2010.
The plaintiff also claimed that NICON Investment Bank drew down the loan account and fully utilised it for the funding of the operations of the firms within its group.
The bank, however, claimed that the said N22.55bn debt was outstanding as at April 30, 2010, three months after the credit facilities had expired, alleging that NICON Investment had refused to liquidate the debt in spite of repeated demands.
The plaintiff asked the court to restrain Global Fleet and its agents from dealing with its 51 per cent shares held in Nigeria Re and NICON (the shares were used as security for the loan) pending the determination of the motion on notice.
The plaintiff is further asking the court to restrain NICON from registering any transfer of Global Fleet’s 51 per cent shares in Nigeria Re and NICON in favour of any person other than the bank.
At the resumed hearing of the case on Tuesday, counsel for the defendants, Messrs Niyi Akintola Dele Adesina , Tayo Oyetibo and Bolaji Ayorinde asked the court for an adjournment to enable then to file their responses.
They contended that they were still within time to file their responses to the motion on notice filed by the plaintiff.
Counsel to the plaintiff, Kemi Pinheiro , however, told the court that he had no objection to an adjournment.
Others joined in the suit were NICON Investment Ltd, Global Fleet Oil and Gas Ltd, Nigeria Reinsurance Corporation Plc, NICON Insurance Ltd and Union Registrars Ltd.
The bank claimed that it granted N41.27bn credit facility to the defendants for a period of 12 months which expired on Jan. 30, 2010.
The plaintiff also claimed that NICON Investment Bank drew down the loan account and fully utilised it for the funding of the operations of the firms within its group.
The bank, however, claimed that the said N22.55bn debt was outstanding as at April 30, 2010, three months after the credit facilities had expired, alleging that NICON Investment had refused to liquidate the debt in spite of repeated demands.
The plaintiff asked the court to restrain Global Fleet and its agents from dealing with its 51 per cent shares held in Nigeria Re and NICON (the shares were used as security for the loan) pending the determination of the motion on notice.
The plaintiff is further asking the court to restrain NICON from registering any transfer of Global Fleet’s 51 per cent shares in Nigeria Re and NICON in favour of any person other than the bank.
At the resumed hearing of the case on Tuesday, counsel for the defendants, Messrs Niyi Akintola Dele Adesina , Tayo Oyetibo and Bolaji Ayorinde asked the court for an adjournment to enable then to file their responses.
They contended that they were still within time to file their responses to the motion on notice filed by the plaintiff.
Counsel to the plaintiff, Kemi Pinheiro , however, told the court that he had no objection to an adjournment.
Monday, November 15, 2010
70 awaiting trial detainees drag Lagos State to court.
An Ikeja High Court in Lagos on Monday adjourned a suit filed by 70 awaiting trial inmates against the Lagos State Government over delay in their trial to Dec. 21.
The suit was recently filed by “Detainees and Indigent Help Center” –an NGO--, on behalf of one Tunde Akinsepe and 69 other inmates of the Ikoyi Prisons.
The plaintiffs filed the suit pursuant to Section 36 (1) and (4) of the 1999 Constitution which guarantees the right to fair hearing and trial within a reasonable time.
The attorney-general of Lagos State, the state director of public prosecutions and the state commissioner of police, are joined as defendants in the suit with reference number ID/615M/10.
At the hearing, counsel to the plaintiffs, Kunle Omotimirin told the court that some of the detainees have spent over nine years in detention without being charged with any known offence.
Omotimirin said this was a gross violation of their fundamental rights to fair hearing and trial within reasonable time, and prayed the court to release them.
Femi Adamson, from the office of the attorney-general of Lagos State, promised that they would collaborate with the NGO to ensure that the cases were given the desired priority.
The presiding judge, Justice Lateefat Okunnu had earlier urged the NGO to narrow down the list so that the court would be able to tackle the rights cases.
Okunnu, who frowned at the unnecessary delay of trying cases, implored both parties to collaborate in order to resolve the matter on time.
The suit was recently filed by “Detainees and Indigent Help Center” –an NGO--, on behalf of one Tunde Akinsepe and 69 other inmates of the Ikoyi Prisons.
The plaintiffs filed the suit pursuant to Section 36 (1) and (4) of the 1999 Constitution which guarantees the right to fair hearing and trial within a reasonable time.
The attorney-general of Lagos State, the state director of public prosecutions and the state commissioner of police, are joined as defendants in the suit with reference number ID/615M/10.
At the hearing, counsel to the plaintiffs, Kunle Omotimirin told the court that some of the detainees have spent over nine years in detention without being charged with any known offence.
Omotimirin said this was a gross violation of their fundamental rights to fair hearing and trial within reasonable time, and prayed the court to release them.
Femi Adamson, from the office of the attorney-general of Lagos State, promised that they would collaborate with the NGO to ensure that the cases were given the desired priority.
The presiding judge, Justice Lateefat Okunnu had earlier urged the NGO to narrow down the list so that the court would be able to tackle the rights cases.
Okunnu, who frowned at the unnecessary delay of trying cases, implored both parties to collaborate in order to resolve the matter on time.
Man in court over N60.4m alleged fraud
A suspected fraudster, Alabi Adebayo, on Monday appeared before an Ebute Meta Chief magistrate’s Court in Lagos charged with stealing, impersonation and forging 10 banks cheques, valued at N60.4 million.
Adebayo is standing trial before Chief Magistrate Philip Ojo on a 49 count-charge of conspiracy, stealing, forgery, altering and impersonation.
The accused, however, pleaded not guilty to the charges.
The Prosecutor, ASP. Innocent Effiong, told the court that the accused, with others still at large, committed the offence sometime between Dec. 6, 2005 and Feb. 8, 2010.
Effiong explained that the accused impersonated one Adebowale Johnson, a revenue officer with the Federal Inland Revenue Service with intent to carry out the alleged crimes.
The banks were Unity Bank, GTBank, First Bank, AfriBank, Stanbic Bank, Union Bank, Ecobank, Oceanic Bank, Bank PHB and Union Homes Savings and Loans,’’ the prosecutor said.
He said the accused stole from the Lagos Internal Revenue Service, Federal Internal Revenue Service, CFAO, Golden Screen Company Ltd and Delta State Internal Revenue Service .
Also duped were the Federal Ministry of Works, Housing and Urban Development and Abuja Geography Information System.
Adebayo also forged a National Identity Card, Certificate of Incorporation and altered an electricity bill, the prosecutor said.
Chief Magistrate Ojo, however, granted the accused bail in the sum N500,000 with two sureties in like sum.
He adjourned the matter till Jan. 14, 2011 for further hearing.
Adebayo is standing trial before Chief Magistrate Philip Ojo on a 49 count-charge of conspiracy, stealing, forgery, altering and impersonation.
The accused, however, pleaded not guilty to the charges.
The Prosecutor, ASP. Innocent Effiong, told the court that the accused, with others still at large, committed the offence sometime between Dec. 6, 2005 and Feb. 8, 2010.
Effiong explained that the accused impersonated one Adebowale Johnson, a revenue officer with the Federal Inland Revenue Service with intent to carry out the alleged crimes.
The banks were Unity Bank, GTBank, First Bank, AfriBank, Stanbic Bank, Union Bank, Ecobank, Oceanic Bank, Bank PHB and Union Homes Savings and Loans,’’ the prosecutor said.
He said the accused stole from the Lagos Internal Revenue Service, Federal Internal Revenue Service, CFAO, Golden Screen Company Ltd and Delta State Internal Revenue Service .
Also duped were the Federal Ministry of Works, Housing and Urban Development and Abuja Geography Information System.
Adebayo also forged a National Identity Card, Certificate of Incorporation and altered an electricity bill, the prosecutor said.
Chief Magistrate Ojo, however, granted the accused bail in the sum N500,000 with two sureties in like sum.
He adjourned the matter till Jan. 14, 2011 for further hearing.
Salesman arraigned for theft
The police in Lagos on Monday arraigned a sales man, Sunday Nwakwo, for allegedly stealing goods worth N3.6 million and N550,000 cash.
Nwankwo is standing trial before an Ebute Meta Chief Magistrate’s Court in Lagos on a two-count charge of conspiracy and stealing.
The prosecutor, Insp. Eshiet Eshiet, said the accused stole 748 cartons of Exeter corned beef and the cash with a total value of N4.1million sometime in June, property of Mr Okechukwu Ezechieod.
Eshiet said the offence was committed at No. 56/61, Offin Road, Oke-Arin in Lagos.
The prosecutor explained that the accused after selling the cartons of corned beef converted the proceeds to his personal use.
Eshiet said the offence contravened Sections 516 and 390 (9) of the Criminal Code, Laws of Lagos State.
The accused, however, pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Chief magistrate, Oyindamola Ogala, granted Nwankwo bail in the sum of N500,000 with two sureties in the sum of N250, 000 each.
The case was adjourned till Dec. 13 for further hearing.
Nwankwo is standing trial before an Ebute Meta Chief Magistrate’s Court in Lagos on a two-count charge of conspiracy and stealing.
The prosecutor, Insp. Eshiet Eshiet, said the accused stole 748 cartons of Exeter corned beef and the cash with a total value of N4.1million sometime in June, property of Mr Okechukwu Ezechieod.
Eshiet said the offence was committed at No. 56/61, Offin Road, Oke-Arin in Lagos.
The prosecutor explained that the accused after selling the cartons of corned beef converted the proceeds to his personal use.
Eshiet said the offence contravened Sections 516 and 390 (9) of the Criminal Code, Laws of Lagos State.
The accused, however, pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Chief magistrate, Oyindamola Ogala, granted Nwankwo bail in the sum of N500,000 with two sureties in the sum of N250, 000 each.
The case was adjourned till Dec. 13 for further hearing.
Friday, November 12, 2010
Night guard docked for allegedly stealing 600 bags of flour
A 56-year-old night guard, Bola Kadri, was on Friday arraigned before an Igbosere Chief Magistrate’s Court for allegedly stealing 600 bags of wheat flour valued at N3.6 million.
Kadiri is facing a two-count charge of conspiracy and stealing.
The prosecutor; Sgt. Stephen Molo, told the court that the accused, with others now at large, committed the offence on July 12 at the Mile 2 area of Lagos.
The accused with others now at large stole 600 bags of crown flour valued at N3.6 million, property of Olugbenga Kehinde,” he said.
He said the offence contravened Sections 390(9) and 516 of the Criminal Code, Laws of Lagos State, 2003.
The defendant pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Chief Magistrate, Adebayo Sonuga, granted the accused N500,000 bail with two sureties in like sum and adjourned the case till Dec. 10 for further hearing.
Kadiri is facing a two-count charge of conspiracy and stealing.
The prosecutor; Sgt. Stephen Molo, told the court that the accused, with others now at large, committed the offence on July 12 at the Mile 2 area of Lagos.
The accused with others now at large stole 600 bags of crown flour valued at N3.6 million, property of Olugbenga Kehinde,” he said.
He said the offence contravened Sections 390(9) and 516 of the Criminal Code, Laws of Lagos State, 2003.
The defendant pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Chief Magistrate, Adebayo Sonuga, granted the accused N500,000 bail with two sureties in like sum and adjourned the case till Dec. 10 for further hearing.
Man charged with personating ministry worker
A 56-year-old man, who allegedly paraded himself as an employee of the Lagos State Ministry of Justice, on Friday appeared before an Ikeja Magistrate’s Court charged with impersonation.
Jacob Idemudia of No. 52, Ikotun Igando Road was arraigned on a one-count of false representation before Magistrate O. A. Adegite.
He, however, pleaded not guilty.
The prosecutor, ASP. W. G. Wagbara, told the court that Idemudia paraded himself falsely as an employee of the ministry with an intention to carry out an evil act.
He said the alleged impersonation was committed on Oct. 29 at the Lagos State Ministry of Justice, Alausa, Ikeja.
The court granted bail to Idemudia in the sum of N50,000 with two sureties in like sum, and adjourned the case till Dec. 6 for further hearing.
Jacob Idemudia of No. 52, Ikotun Igando Road was arraigned on a one-count of false representation before Magistrate O. A. Adegite.
He, however, pleaded not guilty.
The prosecutor, ASP. W. G. Wagbara, told the court that Idemudia paraded himself falsely as an employee of the ministry with an intention to carry out an evil act.
He said the alleged impersonation was committed on Oct. 29 at the Lagos State Ministry of Justice, Alausa, Ikeja.
The court granted bail to Idemudia in the sum of N50,000 with two sureties in like sum, and adjourned the case till Dec. 6 for further hearing.
Petinrin warns people living around militant camps to leave immediately.
The Chief of Defence Staff, Air Chief Marshal Oluseyi Petinrin, on Friday in Abuja warned people living around the vicinity of militant camps in the Niger Delta to leave immediately.
Petinrin, who gave the warning at a news conference, said that the military would no longer tolerate the existence of militant camps in the Niger Delta.
He said the military had observed with great concern some criminal acts within the past few days by some people claiming to be militants.
Petinrin noted that in order to significantly reduce violence, conflict and lawlessness, and to begin a long-term development of the Niger Delta, the Federal Government began the presidential amnesty initiative which started on Aug. 6, 2009.
He said the amnesty, which ended on Oct. 4, 2009, was an unconditional pardon to all persons who had directly or indirectly participated in the commission of offences associated with militant activities in the Niger Delta.
Petinrin said the amnesty was to lead to the reintegration of the militants into the larger society after the handover of their arms, adding that since the end of the amnesty last year, no one was expected to be living in a militant camp.
Petinrin said efforts would be made to assist those who might need to relocate temporarily until ``the clearing out of these dens of common criminals have been concluded’’.
Petinrin, who gave the warning at a news conference, said that the military would no longer tolerate the existence of militant camps in the Niger Delta.
He said the military had observed with great concern some criminal acts within the past few days by some people claiming to be militants.
Petinrin noted that in order to significantly reduce violence, conflict and lawlessness, and to begin a long-term development of the Niger Delta, the Federal Government began the presidential amnesty initiative which started on Aug. 6, 2009.
He said the amnesty, which ended on Oct. 4, 2009, was an unconditional pardon to all persons who had directly or indirectly participated in the commission of offences associated with militant activities in the Niger Delta.
Petinrin said the amnesty was to lead to the reintegration of the militants into the larger society after the handover of their arms, adding that since the end of the amnesty last year, no one was expected to be living in a militant camp.
Petinrin said efforts would be made to assist those who might need to relocate temporarily until ``the clearing out of these dens of common criminals have been concluded’’.
My husband stabs, beats me, 26-year-old woman tells court
A 26 -year-old trader, Adebola Tanimawo, on Friday told a Grade II Customary Court how her husband, Saheed, stabbed her severally during a domestic brawl.
Besides, she alleged that her husband had turned her into a punching bag, beating her to a pulp at the slightest provocation.
Adebola, who said she was no longer interested in the relationship, pleaded with the court to dissolve the four-year-old marriage.
She also alleged that Saheed was an irresponsible husband, adding that he did not take care of her during pregnancy and even when she put to bed.
Adebola further told the court that the marriage had produced a child, who she said was with her mother in-law.
She, however, said she had no objection to the child being with her mother in-law.
The complainant said she had packed out of their matrimonial home in Ijeun in Abeokuta for about two months as a result of the alleged maltreatment.
Adebola, who indicated her resolve to go back to school to complete her secondary education, pleaded with the court to dissolve the marriage ``to save my life and my future’’.
Saheed, a 28-year-old photographer, consented to the dissolution of the marriage, saying that he was also tired of the relationship.
He described her estranged wife as wicked, troublesome, devilish and also provocative.
Saheed urged the court to warn Adebola not to come anywhere near him, adding, however, that she could go to his mother anytime she wanted to see her daughter.
The President of the court, Chief Ishola Fajebe, dissolved the marriage and warned the couple to maintain the peace.
Besides, she alleged that her husband had turned her into a punching bag, beating her to a pulp at the slightest provocation.
Adebola, who said she was no longer interested in the relationship, pleaded with the court to dissolve the four-year-old marriage.
She also alleged that Saheed was an irresponsible husband, adding that he did not take care of her during pregnancy and even when she put to bed.
Adebola further told the court that the marriage had produced a child, who she said was with her mother in-law.
She, however, said she had no objection to the child being with her mother in-law.
The complainant said she had packed out of their matrimonial home in Ijeun in Abeokuta for about two months as a result of the alleged maltreatment.
Adebola, who indicated her resolve to go back to school to complete her secondary education, pleaded with the court to dissolve the marriage ``to save my life and my future’’.
Saheed, a 28-year-old photographer, consented to the dissolution of the marriage, saying that he was also tired of the relationship.
He described her estranged wife as wicked, troublesome, devilish and also provocative.
Saheed urged the court to warn Adebola not to come anywhere near him, adding, however, that she could go to his mother anytime she wanted to see her daughter.
The President of the court, Chief Ishola Fajebe, dissolved the marriage and warned the couple to maintain the peace.
Woman seeks dissolution of 5-year-old marriage over neglect
A 30-year-old nurse, Ruth Ilori, on Friday asked a Grade 1 Customary Court in Abeokuta to dissolve her five-years-old marriage on grounds of neglect and abuse.
Ruth told the court how her enstraged husband, Peters Ilori, neglected her and the two children aged four and two, products of the marriage.
She said her husband packed out of their matrimonial home at Kuto, in Abeokuta, to an unknown place since February.
She told the court that Ilori instructed her to pay a visit to his people in Sagamu, and that on her return, she discovered that Ilori had left the house with all their belongings.
The complainant also said all her effort to bring the situation under control was not successful.
She said she had pleaded with Ilori's family members to intervene on the matter but nothing had come out of it.
While alleging that Ilori beat her on daily basis, she described him as an irresponsible husband.
Ruth claimed that she had for sometime now been bearing the responsibilities of her children’s education and upkeep alone.
She said all these made her to seek for the dissolution of the marriage, but pleaded with the court to mandate Ilori to pay the children’s tuition fees.
Ilori, a 40-year-old civil servant, did not object to the dissolution, saying he was also tired of the marriage.
He, however, pleaded with the court to mandate Ruth to allow him have access to the children whenever he wished.
Ilori pledged to be paying N2,500 monthly for the children’s education and upkeep.
He said he had four other children from two other wives to look after and so might not be able to pay more than that.
The President of the court, Christianah Olaleye, said it was obvious that love no longer existed between the estranged couple.
Olaleye ordered Ilori to pay N3,000 monthly to the Court Registrar for the children’s education and upkeep.
She, however, dissolved the union and ordered the two parties to maintain the peace.
Ruth told the court how her enstraged husband, Peters Ilori, neglected her and the two children aged four and two, products of the marriage.
She said her husband packed out of their matrimonial home at Kuto, in Abeokuta, to an unknown place since February.
She told the court that Ilori instructed her to pay a visit to his people in Sagamu, and that on her return, she discovered that Ilori had left the house with all their belongings.
The complainant also said all her effort to bring the situation under control was not successful.
She said she had pleaded with Ilori's family members to intervene on the matter but nothing had come out of it.
While alleging that Ilori beat her on daily basis, she described him as an irresponsible husband.
Ruth claimed that she had for sometime now been bearing the responsibilities of her children’s education and upkeep alone.
She said all these made her to seek for the dissolution of the marriage, but pleaded with the court to mandate Ilori to pay the children’s tuition fees.
Ilori, a 40-year-old civil servant, did not object to the dissolution, saying he was also tired of the marriage.
He, however, pleaded with the court to mandate Ruth to allow him have access to the children whenever he wished.
Ilori pledged to be paying N2,500 monthly for the children’s education and upkeep.
He said he had four other children from two other wives to look after and so might not be able to pay more than that.
The President of the court, Christianah Olaleye, said it was obvious that love no longer existed between the estranged couple.
Olaleye ordered Ilori to pay N3,000 monthly to the Court Registrar for the children’s education and upkeep.
She, however, dissolved the union and ordered the two parties to maintain the peace.
2 arraigned over theft of PHCN cables
The Police in Lagos on Friday arraigned two persons for allegedly stealing cables belonging to the Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN).
Paul Ozurumba (25) and Okechukwu Eze (29) were alleged to have stolen the cables on Nov. 3 at about 1.45 a.m. at Gbagada Phase II, Yaba, Lagos.
The accused, who are facing a three-count charge of conspiracy, stealing and receiving stolen items at a Somolu Magistrate’s Court, pleaded not guilty.
But the Prosecutor, Insp. Akinlabi Adegoke said the accused committed the offence and violated Sections 390, 427 and 516 of the Criminal Code, laws of Lagos State.
He said some policemen attached to Pedro Police Station, Somolu, caught the accused with the cables while on night patrol.
Adegoke said Ozurumba gave the second accused, Eze, the stolen items to keep.
Magistrate, B.O. Osunsanmi granted the accused bail in the sum of N200, 000 each, with a surety in like sum, and adjourned the case till Dec. 8 for further hearing.
Paul Ozurumba (25) and Okechukwu Eze (29) were alleged to have stolen the cables on Nov. 3 at about 1.45 a.m. at Gbagada Phase II, Yaba, Lagos.
The accused, who are facing a three-count charge of conspiracy, stealing and receiving stolen items at a Somolu Magistrate’s Court, pleaded not guilty.
But the Prosecutor, Insp. Akinlabi Adegoke said the accused committed the offence and violated Sections 390, 427 and 516 of the Criminal Code, laws of Lagos State.
He said some policemen attached to Pedro Police Station, Somolu, caught the accused with the cables while on night patrol.
Adegoke said Ozurumba gave the second accused, Eze, the stolen items to keep.
Magistrate, B.O. Osunsanmi granted the accused bail in the sum of N200, 000 each, with a surety in like sum, and adjourned the case till Dec. 8 for further hearing.
Court adjourns hearing on Babalakin’s alleged N12.3b debt case
A Federal High Court, Lagos, on Friday adjourned till Nov. 18 further hearing in a case filed by the Guaranty Trust Bank Plc against Dr Wale Babalakin (SAN), a businessman, over alleged N12.3 billion debt.
Justice Mohammed Idris adjourned hearing in Babalakin’s motion challenging the court’s jurisdiction to hear the suit.
The GTB sued Babalakin along with his construction and real estate firms.
The companies are Stabilini Visinoni Ltd., Roygate Properties Ltd., Resort International Ltd. and Homan Engineering Company Ltd.
The bank wants the court to help it to recover the alleged debt, which it claimed was an outstanding balance of a credit facility it granted the defendants.
It also wants the court to compel the defendants to pay interest on the N12.3 billion at the rate of 30 per cent from Nov. 30 last year till judgment date.
Idris ruled on Friday that it was wrong to hear the substantive suit together with the application challenging the court’s jurisdiction as argued by the plaintiff.
The only exception appears when the issue of jurisdiction is laced with the merit of the case which is not so in this case,’’ the judge held
Justice Mohammed Idris adjourned hearing in Babalakin’s motion challenging the court’s jurisdiction to hear the suit.
The GTB sued Babalakin along with his construction and real estate firms.
The companies are Stabilini Visinoni Ltd., Roygate Properties Ltd., Resort International Ltd. and Homan Engineering Company Ltd.
The bank wants the court to help it to recover the alleged debt, which it claimed was an outstanding balance of a credit facility it granted the defendants.
It also wants the court to compel the defendants to pay interest on the N12.3 billion at the rate of 30 per cent from Nov. 30 last year till judgment date.
Idris ruled on Friday that it was wrong to hear the substantive suit together with the application challenging the court’s jurisdiction as argued by the plaintiff.
The only exception appears when the issue of jurisdiction is laced with the merit of the case which is not so in this case,’’ the judge held
Food seller charged with attempted murder
A food vendor, Patience Pekipuma, on Friday appeared before an Ebute Meta Magistrate’s Court, Lagos, charged with alleged attempted murder.
Pekipuma, 30, is facing a three-count charge of conspiracy, attempted murder and intention to cause grievous harm.
The prosecution told the court that the accused had on Sept. 26 attempted to kill one Joshua Paul for allegedly failing to pay for food served him at her eatery.
The prosecutor, Innocent Effiong, an Assistant Superintendent of Police, said the offence was committed at Market Bus Stop on the Lagos-Badagry Expressway.
Effiong said the offence contravened Sections 32, 332 (1) and 516 of the Criminal Code, Laws of Lagos State.
Pekipuma, however, pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Magistrate, T. Abolarinwa, granted her bail in the sum of N20,000 with two sureties in like sum and adjourned the case till Dec. 6 for further hearing.
Pekipuma, 30, is facing a three-count charge of conspiracy, attempted murder and intention to cause grievous harm.
The prosecution told the court that the accused had on Sept. 26 attempted to kill one Joshua Paul for allegedly failing to pay for food served him at her eatery.
The prosecutor, Innocent Effiong, an Assistant Superintendent of Police, said the offence was committed at Market Bus Stop on the Lagos-Badagry Expressway.
Effiong said the offence contravened Sections 32, 332 (1) and 516 of the Criminal Code, Laws of Lagos State.
Pekipuma, however, pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Magistrate, T. Abolarinwa, granted her bail in the sum of N20,000 with two sureties in like sum and adjourned the case till Dec. 6 for further hearing.
Arms import: FG says no plan to expel Iranian diplomat
The Federal Government says it has no plan to expel the Iranian diplomat who was implicated in the arms and explosives consignment shipped in 13 containers into the country.
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Odein Ajumogobia made this known on Friday, while fielding questions from State House correspondents.
He maintained that diplomats always enjoyed immunity and that Nigeria ``respects the Vienna Convention and we will not pursue the issue where a diplomat is concerned’’.
Ajumogobia said the Federal Government had no intention of engaging in a diplomatic row with Iran as the matter was being addressed amicably.
He said the Iranian government had granted permission to Nigerian security officials to interrogate the principal suspect in the arms saga, who was taking refuge in the Iranian Embassy in Abuja.
Ajumogobia commended the Iranian government for its understanding and cooperation, saying that the matter would soon be resolved.
The arms and ammunition, which were shipped into the country in July, were discovered on Oct. 26.
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Odein Ajumogobia made this known on Friday, while fielding questions from State House correspondents.
He maintained that diplomats always enjoyed immunity and that Nigeria ``respects the Vienna Convention and we will not pursue the issue where a diplomat is concerned’’.
Ajumogobia said the Federal Government had no intention of engaging in a diplomatic row with Iran as the matter was being addressed amicably.
He said the Iranian government had granted permission to Nigerian security officials to interrogate the principal suspect in the arms saga, who was taking refuge in the Iranian Embassy in Abuja.
Ajumogobia commended the Iranian government for its understanding and cooperation, saying that the matter would soon be resolved.
The arms and ammunition, which were shipped into the country in July, were discovered on Oct. 26.
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Labour begins 3-day warning strike over minimum wage.
The Nigeria Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress on Wednesday began a three-day nation-wide warning strike in protest against the failure of the Federal Government to implement the N18,000 minimum wage.The decision followed the deadlock in the Nov. 9 talks between the NLC's leadership and President Goodluck Jonathan on how to meet the workers’ demand.on Oct. 27, the National Executive Council of the NLC decided to proceed on the strike from Nov. 10 to Nov. 12.The NLC recalled that the joint government-labour-employer negotiating team, chaired by Justice Alfa Belgore, a former Chief Justice of the Federation, had finished its work on the minimum wage in April.The Labour and Civil Society Coalition on Wednesday urged the Lagos State Government to accede to the demands of striking medical doctors and lecturers of the state university.The coalition threatened to shut down the State Government secretariat and all its offices if it failed to address the demands of the workers.Its Secretary, Abioun Aremu told a rally at the NLC secretariat, Yaba, that Gov. Babatunde Fashola should negotiate with the workers instead of announcing 75 per cent increase for them.The coalition had called the rally in conjunction with the NLC to press home their demand for N18, 000 minimum wages.Aremu said a notice has been served to the Lagos State government to immediately meet the demands of the striking doctors and lecturers or face our wrath.On the N18, 000 minimum wages, Aremu urged the Federal Government to respect the agreement it reached with the labour since April.He said Wednesday’s warning strike was the sixth national strike called by the labour movement on minimum wage since the struggle for improved welfare for workers began in 1942.The first national strike on minimum wage was called by the late NLC President, Pa Michael Imodu in 1942 while the fifth was called in 2000 by the Adams Oshiomhole then NLC president and current Edo governor.Some of the placards displayed by the protesting workers read Fashola meet doctors’ demand; workers demand decent wages; build infrastructure, create jobs; Senators are well paid; arrest and prosecute looters.However the warning strike has been suspended.
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Suspected thief arraigned over air conditioner theft.
The police in Lagos on Tuesday arraigned a teenager suspected to have specialised in cutting air conditioner pipes.
Adeola Adeniyi (19) was also charged before an Ikeja Magistrate’s Court with stealing an air conditioner worth N20, 000.
He, however, pleaded not guilty to the two-count charge.
The prosecutor, Sgt. Francis Igbonosa, submitted that the teenager cut an air conditioner copper pipe belonging to Iyat Nig. Ltd. on Nov.1 at the Oba Dosumu St., GRA, Ikeja.
He said Adeniyi had been terrorising the GRA residents by cutting air conditioner copper pipes of both companies and individuals.
Igbonosa said the teenage cut the pipes, stole the air conditioners and sold them.
He submitted that the alleged offences contravened sections 451 and 390 (9) of the Criminal Code of Lagos State.
Magistrate A.F.O. Botokun granted the accused bail in the sum of N50, 000 with two sureties in like sum.
She adjourned the case till Dec. 12 for further hearing.
Adeola Adeniyi (19) was also charged before an Ikeja Magistrate’s Court with stealing an air conditioner worth N20, 000.
He, however, pleaded not guilty to the two-count charge.
The prosecutor, Sgt. Francis Igbonosa, submitted that the teenager cut an air conditioner copper pipe belonging to Iyat Nig. Ltd. on Nov.1 at the Oba Dosumu St., GRA, Ikeja.
He said Adeniyi had been terrorising the GRA residents by cutting air conditioner copper pipes of both companies and individuals.
Igbonosa said the teenage cut the pipes, stole the air conditioners and sold them.
He submitted that the alleged offences contravened sections 451 and 390 (9) of the Criminal Code of Lagos State.
Magistrate A.F.O. Botokun granted the accused bail in the sum of N50, 000 with two sureties in like sum.
She adjourned the case till Dec. 12 for further hearing.
Bus driver, 2 others face affray, assault charges
Three men, including a commercial bus driver, were on Tuesday charged before an Ebute Meta Magistrates’ Court, Lagos, with affray and assault.
The accused area: a bus driver, Nurudeen Azeez (25), Ismaila Olanrewaju (25) and Rasaki Ogidan (37).
Prosecutor Gabriel Ekundayo, said the trio with others still at large, engaged in a free-for-all on Oct. 5 at Odunsi St., Bariga, Lagos.
He alleged that Ogidan assaulted Azeez by macheting him on the head while Azeez stabbed Olanrewaju, a carpenter, with a broken bottle.
The offence, Ekundayo said, contravened Sections 83 and 355 of the Criminal Code, Laws of Lagos State.
The accused, however, pleaded not guilty to the charges and each was granted bail in the sum of N100, 000 with one surety each in like sum.
The case was adjourned till Dec. 9 for further hearing.
The accused area: a bus driver, Nurudeen Azeez (25), Ismaila Olanrewaju (25) and Rasaki Ogidan (37).
Prosecutor Gabriel Ekundayo, said the trio with others still at large, engaged in a free-for-all on Oct. 5 at Odunsi St., Bariga, Lagos.
He alleged that Ogidan assaulted Azeez by macheting him on the head while Azeez stabbed Olanrewaju, a carpenter, with a broken bottle.
The offence, Ekundayo said, contravened Sections 83 and 355 of the Criminal Code, Laws of Lagos State.
The accused, however, pleaded not guilty to the charges and each was granted bail in the sum of N100, 000 with one surety each in like sum.
The case was adjourned till Dec. 9 for further hearing.
Tanker drivers give FG ultimatum to check killing by security men.
Petroleum Tanker Drivers have given a seven-day ultimatum to the Federal Government to arrest and prosecute security personnel who allegedly molest and kill tanker drivers.
The drivers, who are members of the National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers gave the ultimatum at a conference in Lagos on Tuesday.
Its Chairman, Timothy Ogbu said the alleged molestation and killing occurred in Abuja and Plateau.
Ogbu said the drivers would boycott petroleum products supply to Abuja and Plateau if the government failed to address the situation.
Our member, 42-year-old Muhammed Saidu, was killed by a soldier at a boundary between Bauchi and Plateau states on Nov. 6.
We cannot continue to risk the lives of our members while trigger-happy uniformed personnel will be on the prowl endangering the lives of workers on duty, he said.
He said the PTD were demanding N50 million as compensation to the family of late Saidu who had two wives and children.
Ogbu said a tanker driver, whose name he did not disclose, was also killed in Abuja by an army man who was neither arrested nor prosecuted.
The chairman also alleged that some army men ceased a tanker carrying 33,000 litres of fuel in Port-Harcourt after a misunderstanding with the driver on Feb. 7
The tanker and its content have not been released in spite of all entreaties to the Army Barracks in Bori in Rivers as well as the Chief of Army Staff, Ogbu said.
He said PTD would no longer tolerate what he described as violation of their rights.
Joseph Akinlaja, a former General Secretary of NUPENG, said the drivers’ protest had become necessary to compel the government and security agencies to stop the alleged molestation and killing.
The drivers, who are members of the National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers gave the ultimatum at a conference in Lagos on Tuesday.
Its Chairman, Timothy Ogbu said the alleged molestation and killing occurred in Abuja and Plateau.
Ogbu said the drivers would boycott petroleum products supply to Abuja and Plateau if the government failed to address the situation.
Our member, 42-year-old Muhammed Saidu, was killed by a soldier at a boundary between Bauchi and Plateau states on Nov. 6.
We cannot continue to risk the lives of our members while trigger-happy uniformed personnel will be on the prowl endangering the lives of workers on duty, he said.
He said the PTD were demanding N50 million as compensation to the family of late Saidu who had two wives and children.
Ogbu said a tanker driver, whose name he did not disclose, was also killed in Abuja by an army man who was neither arrested nor prosecuted.
The chairman also alleged that some army men ceased a tanker carrying 33,000 litres of fuel in Port-Harcourt after a misunderstanding with the driver on Feb. 7
The tanker and its content have not been released in spite of all entreaties to the Army Barracks in Bori in Rivers as well as the Chief of Army Staff, Ogbu said.
He said PTD would no longer tolerate what he described as violation of their rights.
Joseph Akinlaja, a former General Secretary of NUPENG, said the drivers’ protest had become necessary to compel the government and security agencies to stop the alleged molestation and killing.
Man in court for allegedly taking photographs of policemen.
A 25-year-old man, Michael Onyekwere, who took photographs of two policemen, on Tuesday, appeared before an Ikeja Magistrate’s Court on charges of assault and breach of public peace.
Onyekwere allegedly indiscriminately took photographs of the policemen and other passersby with his mobile telephone set and became violent when asked why he took the photographs.
The prosecutor, Insp. Eranus Nnamonu, said that Onyekwere took the photographs on Nov. 4 at Acme Junction, Ogba in Ikeja.
Nnamonu said Onyekwere grabbed the uniform of the affected policemen and scratched their faces when they confronted him for taking the photographs.
He submitted that Onyekwere had an evil motive, adding that the alleged offences were punishable under sections 249 (D) and 355 of the Criminal Code of Lagos State.
Magistrate A. F.O Botokun granted Onyekwere bail in the sum of N100, 000 with two sureties in like sum, and adjourned the case till Nov. 29 for further hearing.
Onyekwere allegedly indiscriminately took photographs of the policemen and other passersby with his mobile telephone set and became violent when asked why he took the photographs.
The prosecutor, Insp. Eranus Nnamonu, said that Onyekwere took the photographs on Nov. 4 at Acme Junction, Ogba in Ikeja.
Nnamonu said Onyekwere grabbed the uniform of the affected policemen and scratched their faces when they confronted him for taking the photographs.
He submitted that Onyekwere had an evil motive, adding that the alleged offences were punishable under sections 249 (D) and 355 of the Criminal Code of Lagos State.
Magistrate A. F.O Botokun granted Onyekwere bail in the sum of N100, 000 with two sureties in like sum, and adjourned the case till Nov. 29 for further hearing.
Absence of judge stalls Ogbulafor's case.
The absence of Justice Ishaq Bello of the FCT High Court on Tuesday stalled the ongoing N2.3 billion corruption trial of former National Chairman of the PDP, Vincent Ogbulafor.
The EFCC slammed the N2.3 billion charge against Ogbulafor while he was the national chairman of PDP.
No reason was given for the judge's absence on Tuesday's proceedings as the court was besieged by members of the public, journalists and lawyers waiting for the case to commence.
Bello had fixed Nov. 9, Nov. 10 and Nov. 11 for an accelerated hearing of the case.
It would be recalled that Bello had also ruled that Ogbulafor had a case to answer after his lawyer, Amaechi Nwaiwu, asked the court to quash the charges preferred against him by the ICPC.
Ogbulafor had asked the court to quash the charges on the grounds that there was no evidence linking him to the alleged offence.
But Bello held that after analysing the proof of evidence before him that he was of the opinion that the prosecution made sufficient evidence to establish a prima facie case against him.
Ogbulafor was in June arraigned by the ICPC on an amended 17-count charge alongside Emeka Ebilah and Jude Nwokoro.
They were alleged to have conspired to commit the offence using their offices as Minister of Special Duties, Secretary, National Intelligence Committee and Director Budget Implementation, Federal Ministry of Finance, respectively.
They were alleged to have awarded contracts worth N2.3 billion to some fictitious companies and verifying same as purportedly executed on behalf of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in 2001.
Nwaiwu said the case had been fixed for Dec. 6 for hearing.
The EFCC slammed the N2.3 billion charge against Ogbulafor while he was the national chairman of PDP.
No reason was given for the judge's absence on Tuesday's proceedings as the court was besieged by members of the public, journalists and lawyers waiting for the case to commence.
Bello had fixed Nov. 9, Nov. 10 and Nov. 11 for an accelerated hearing of the case.
It would be recalled that Bello had also ruled that Ogbulafor had a case to answer after his lawyer, Amaechi Nwaiwu, asked the court to quash the charges preferred against him by the ICPC.
Ogbulafor had asked the court to quash the charges on the grounds that there was no evidence linking him to the alleged offence.
But Bello held that after analysing the proof of evidence before him that he was of the opinion that the prosecution made sufficient evidence to establish a prima facie case against him.
Ogbulafor was in June arraigned by the ICPC on an amended 17-count charge alongside Emeka Ebilah and Jude Nwokoro.
They were alleged to have conspired to commit the offence using their offices as Minister of Special Duties, Secretary, National Intelligence Committee and Director Budget Implementation, Federal Ministry of Finance, respectively.
They were alleged to have awarded contracts worth N2.3 billion to some fictitious companies and verifying same as purportedly executed on behalf of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in 2001.
Nwaiwu said the case had been fixed for Dec. 6 for hearing.
Police Reforms: retired officers to be re-engaged.
The Ministry of Police Affairs has concluded plans to re-engage physically fit retired police officers to serve as instructors at police colleges in the country.
Force Deputy Public Relations Officer, CSP Ajayi Yemi on Tuesday said the measure was part of efforts to reposition the police in line with the ongoing reforms.
Yemi stated that the first round of interviews for interested retired officers in the South-South and South-East zones had been scheduled for Nov. 9 and Nov. 12, and Nov. 13 and Nov. 16 in Port Harcourt and Enugu, respectively.
It urged all candidates, who met the requirements to take advantage of the offer and come with the originals of their credentials for screening.
Force Deputy Public Relations Officer, CSP Ajayi Yemi on Tuesday said the measure was part of efforts to reposition the police in line with the ongoing reforms.
Yemi stated that the first round of interviews for interested retired officers in the South-South and South-East zones had been scheduled for Nov. 9 and Nov. 12, and Nov. 13 and Nov. 16 in Port Harcourt and Enugu, respectively.
It urged all candidates, who met the requirements to take advantage of the offer and come with the originals of their credentials for screening.
Jonathan cuts short trip to meet with labour leaders.
President Goodluck Jonathan on Tuesday cut short his official trip to Lagos to meet with labour leaders in Abuja to avert the imminent nationwide strike planned for Wednesday.
The President cancelled some of his programmes in Lagos and left for Abuja to lead a high-powered government delegation to an emergency talk with labour representatives.
Jonathan is scheduled to meet with representatives of Nigeria Labour Congress and Trade Union Congress later in the day at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
The Government delegation to the talks is expected to include Vice President Namadi Sambo, Ministers of Finance Olusegun Aganga, Labour, Emeka Wogu, and other key ministers.
Meanwhile, the President has urged the labour leaders to embrace continued dialogue on the issue of national minimum wage.
Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Ima Niboro, said Government was committed to the plight of labour, as evident by the recent increase workers’ salaries in the federal civil service.
Niboro said Tuesday’s meeting would review government's action plan for a new national minimum wage which will be implemented in the shortest possible time.
The President cancelled some of his programmes in Lagos and left for Abuja to lead a high-powered government delegation to an emergency talk with labour representatives.
Jonathan is scheduled to meet with representatives of Nigeria Labour Congress and Trade Union Congress later in the day at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
The Government delegation to the talks is expected to include Vice President Namadi Sambo, Ministers of Finance Olusegun Aganga, Labour, Emeka Wogu, and other key ministers.
Meanwhile, the President has urged the labour leaders to embrace continued dialogue on the issue of national minimum wage.
Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Ima Niboro, said Government was committed to the plight of labour, as evident by the recent increase workers’ salaries in the federal civil service.
Niboro said Tuesday’s meeting would review government's action plan for a new national minimum wage which will be implemented in the shortest possible time.
NSCDC will not be scrapped – Says Mustapha
Chairman, Senate Committee on Internal Security, Lekan Mustapha says the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps was created by an Act and could only be scrapped by the National Assembly.
Mustapha made the clarification on Tuesday while answering a question at the 2010 ministerial briefing by the Ministry of Interior.
Mustapha stressed that there was no need to scrap the Corps as, according to him, the public had rated the performance of NSCDC above 80 per cent.
He said the rating was an indication that the public was satisfied with the performance of the organisation.
Mustapha said the National Assembly would continue to support the ministry in terms of budgetary allocation to enable it to discharge its responsibilities.
Minister of Interior, Retired Captain Emmanuel Ihenacho had said adequate security reporting and intelligence gathering by the corps had assisted government in checking criminal activities across the nation.
Ihenacho said the corps, between January and September, arrested 395 illegal oil bunkerers and vandals of petroleum pipelines, PHCN and Telecommunication facilities as well as government infrastructure.
He said out of the number, 25 had been convicted adding that during the same period, the corps impounded 50 vehicles, six boats and 11 motorcycles used in the illegal activities.
Ihenacho said the organisation, through its services to the public during the period, generated above N63 million into government coffers.
On security, Ihenacho said the ministry had sought the approval of the presidency to create a well equipped Mobile Quick Reaction Force within the NSCDC, to counter kidnapping, terrorism and other threats to internal security.
The minister announced the extension of deadline for the Machine Readable Passport from December 31, 2010 to April 2011.
According to him, the ministry and its agencies would achieve more in the years ahead with adequate funding.
In a welcome address, Minister of State in the ministry, Humphrey Abah noted that internal security was a shared responsibility as it had direct implications on the socio-economic activities of the nation.
Abah, however, said the country had both human and material capacities to meet the security challenges being posed by the activities of some few criminals, to make Nigeria safe for all.
The Comptrollers-General of the Federal Fire Service, Nigeria Immigration Service, Prison Service and the NSCDC attended the briefing.
Mustapha made the clarification on Tuesday while answering a question at the 2010 ministerial briefing by the Ministry of Interior.
Mustapha stressed that there was no need to scrap the Corps as, according to him, the public had rated the performance of NSCDC above 80 per cent.
He said the rating was an indication that the public was satisfied with the performance of the organisation.
Mustapha said the National Assembly would continue to support the ministry in terms of budgetary allocation to enable it to discharge its responsibilities.
Minister of Interior, Retired Captain Emmanuel Ihenacho had said adequate security reporting and intelligence gathering by the corps had assisted government in checking criminal activities across the nation.
Ihenacho said the corps, between January and September, arrested 395 illegal oil bunkerers and vandals of petroleum pipelines, PHCN and Telecommunication facilities as well as government infrastructure.
He said out of the number, 25 had been convicted adding that during the same period, the corps impounded 50 vehicles, six boats and 11 motorcycles used in the illegal activities.
Ihenacho said the organisation, through its services to the public during the period, generated above N63 million into government coffers.
On security, Ihenacho said the ministry had sought the approval of the presidency to create a well equipped Mobile Quick Reaction Force within the NSCDC, to counter kidnapping, terrorism and other threats to internal security.
The minister announced the extension of deadline for the Machine Readable Passport from December 31, 2010 to April 2011.
According to him, the ministry and its agencies would achieve more in the years ahead with adequate funding.
In a welcome address, Minister of State in the ministry, Humphrey Abah noted that internal security was a shared responsibility as it had direct implications on the socio-economic activities of the nation.
Abah, however, said the country had both human and material capacities to meet the security challenges being posed by the activities of some few criminals, to make Nigeria safe for all.
The Comptrollers-General of the Federal Fire Service, Nigeria Immigration Service, Prison Service and the NSCDC attended the briefing.
Monday, November 8, 2010
NASS to challenge court's judgment on 1999 Constitution.
The Senate said on Monday that it would appeal against a Lagos Federal High Court judgment that the 1999 Constitution (first Alteration) amendment required presidential assent to become law.
The court ruled that the amendment to the 1999 Constitution by the National Assembly required President Goodluck Jonathan’s assent to become operational.
The court, presided over by Justice Okechukwu Okeke, also ruled that the purported amendment to the Constitution remained inchoate until it was presented to the President for his assent and approval.
The court, therefore, declared the 2010 Constitution Amendment Act as null and void.
Olisa Agbakoba sued the National Assembly and the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Mohammed Adoke, challenging the legality of the claim by the lawmakers that President Jonathan's assent was not required before the amendment to the Constitution could become operational.
But Senate Spokesperson, Ayogu Eze, on Monday in Abuja said the National Assembly respected the court’s judgment but would file an appeal.
Eze said as a law-abiding institution and one charged with the function of making laws for the good governance of the country, we shall appeal against the judgment.
We believe that the 1999 Constitution did not envisage that any single individual should sign the alteration after the people have spoken through the exercise of their sovereignty.
We believe we were right in reaching the decision we did. One should have asked why the governors did not sign the amendment at the time it went to the states for approval.
We were also guided by practice and conventions of other older democracies.
He explained that the U.S. passed through the same argument after the Congress passed the Bill of Rights but the Supreme Court in that country ruled that the assent of the president was not required to alter the constitution.
Members of the National Assembly embody the mandate and sovereignty of the people and the people speak through them. Sovereignty in a democracy belongs to the people and not to any office.
We shall, however, abide by the final outcome of the litigation. We shall definitely appeal this decision which we think did not reflect the spirit and intent of the Constitution,’’ he said.
The court ruled that the amendment to the 1999 Constitution by the National Assembly required President Goodluck Jonathan’s assent to become operational.
The court, presided over by Justice Okechukwu Okeke, also ruled that the purported amendment to the Constitution remained inchoate until it was presented to the President for his assent and approval.
The court, therefore, declared the 2010 Constitution Amendment Act as null and void.
Olisa Agbakoba sued the National Assembly and the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Mohammed Adoke, challenging the legality of the claim by the lawmakers that President Jonathan's assent was not required before the amendment to the Constitution could become operational.
But Senate Spokesperson, Ayogu Eze, on Monday in Abuja said the National Assembly respected the court’s judgment but would file an appeal.
Eze said as a law-abiding institution and one charged with the function of making laws for the good governance of the country, we shall appeal against the judgment.
We believe that the 1999 Constitution did not envisage that any single individual should sign the alteration after the people have spoken through the exercise of their sovereignty.
We believe we were right in reaching the decision we did. One should have asked why the governors did not sign the amendment at the time it went to the states for approval.
We were also guided by practice and conventions of other older democracies.
He explained that the U.S. passed through the same argument after the Congress passed the Bill of Rights but the Supreme Court in that country ruled that the assent of the president was not required to alter the constitution.
Members of the National Assembly embody the mandate and sovereignty of the people and the people speak through them. Sovereignty in a democracy belongs to the people and not to any office.
We shall, however, abide by the final outcome of the litigation. We shall definitely appeal this decision which we think did not reflect the spirit and intent of the Constitution,’’ he said.
Man bags 2 weeks for stealing fruit juice.
A Magistrate's Court in Abuja on Monday sentenced one Peter Maikano, 22, to two weeks imprisonment for allegedly stealing a carton of fruit juice worth N2,100.
The Magistrate, Jacinta Okeke, who handed down the sentence to Maikano, however, gave him an option of N1,000 fine.
The accused of Karmagiji Viilage in Abuja metropolis, had pleaded guilty to the offence, which Police Prosecutor Simon Emmanuel said contravened the Penal Code.
The prosecutor told the court that Maikano stole the juice at the Coca-Cola Bottling Company, Idu Industrial Layout, on Nov. 4 while on duty at the premises.
Emmanuel said Maikano, who was attached to the carpentry section of the company, was caught by the security guard that fateful day as he attempted to cart away the said carton of fruit juice from the store.
The Magistrate, Jacinta Okeke, who handed down the sentence to Maikano, however, gave him an option of N1,000 fine.
The accused of Karmagiji Viilage in Abuja metropolis, had pleaded guilty to the offence, which Police Prosecutor Simon Emmanuel said contravened the Penal Code.
The prosecutor told the court that Maikano stole the juice at the Coca-Cola Bottling Company, Idu Industrial Layout, on Nov. 4 while on duty at the premises.
Emmanuel said Maikano, who was attached to the carpentry section of the company, was caught by the security guard that fateful day as he attempted to cart away the said carton of fruit juice from the store.
Robbery accused remanded pending DPP’s advice.
A man standing trial for alleged armed robbery was on Monday remanded in Kirikiri Prisons pending when the court would receive an advice from the Lagos State Director of Public Prosecutions.
Ihekwuoaba Okoloji, 20, was alleged to have conspired with others at large to rob a supermarket at Orile-Iganmu.
Okoloji is facing a two-count charge of conspiracy and armed robbery before Mrs A.F. Botokun of the Ikeja Magistrate’s Court.
The prosecutor, Sgt. Francis Igbinosa, told the court that the accused and others at large, conspired and armed with guns and other dangerous weapons attacked the supermarket.
Igbinosa alleged that Okoloji and his gang invaded the supermarket late at night wielding weapons and ordered everyone to lie on the floor.
He said they had attempted to seize the supermarket operator, one Kalu Uka Kalu, to get him surrender the day’s sales when they were overpowered.
He said the offence was contrary to and punishable under Sections 1 (2) (a) and 1 (2) (a) (b) of the Robbery and Firearms (Special Provisions) Act, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria.
He said the offence was committed on Sept. 25, at no. 109 Baale Str., Orile-Iganmu, in Lagos.
The pleas of Okoloji were not taken and the Magistrate ordered him remanded in prison custody pending the DPP’s advice.
She then adjourned the case till Dec. 7, for mention.
Ihekwuoaba Okoloji, 20, was alleged to have conspired with others at large to rob a supermarket at Orile-Iganmu.
Okoloji is facing a two-count charge of conspiracy and armed robbery before Mrs A.F. Botokun of the Ikeja Magistrate’s Court.
The prosecutor, Sgt. Francis Igbinosa, told the court that the accused and others at large, conspired and armed with guns and other dangerous weapons attacked the supermarket.
Igbinosa alleged that Okoloji and his gang invaded the supermarket late at night wielding weapons and ordered everyone to lie on the floor.
He said they had attempted to seize the supermarket operator, one Kalu Uka Kalu, to get him surrender the day’s sales when they were overpowered.
He said the offence was contrary to and punishable under Sections 1 (2) (a) and 1 (2) (a) (b) of the Robbery and Firearms (Special Provisions) Act, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria.
He said the offence was committed on Sept. 25, at no. 109 Baale Str., Orile-Iganmu, in Lagos.
The pleas of Okoloji were not taken and the Magistrate ordered him remanded in prison custody pending the DPP’s advice.
She then adjourned the case till Dec. 7, for mention.
PSC urges police to be civil in dealing with public.
The Police Service Commission on Monday urged officers and men of the Nigeria Police Force to be tolerant, civil, of good temper and propriety in dealing with the public.
In a communiqué issued at the end of the commission’s 2010 biennial retreat, it also called on members of the public to treat the police with respect and dignity.
The retreat was on repositioning the force to meet the challenges of policing in a democracy.
Signed by the Chairman of the commission, retired DIG Parry Osayande, the communiqué urged attitudinal change on the part of the police, especially in the way they related with the public and reacted to allegations of brutality.
There is the need to take action against any officer that acts contrary to force orders and police regulations,`` it said, adding that training curriculum should be reviewed to contain elements that could produce respect for the police.
It noted that though the police were faced with challenges, including poor funding, rising crime, the need for training and re-training, corruption and poor image, there were many officers and men who were honourable, patriotic and hardworking.
The communiqué, however, advised the police to improve their image through the concept of respectful policing, management of information and image as well as checking corruption among the rank and file.
It called on the government to equip the force with ICT and scientific aid such as finger prints machines, forensic laboratories and camera systems, including CCTV, to enhance policing.
It also urged the National Assembly to pass the Police Act to enable the force to meet the challenges of policing in the 21st century.
In a communiqué issued at the end of the commission’s 2010 biennial retreat, it also called on members of the public to treat the police with respect and dignity.
The retreat was on repositioning the force to meet the challenges of policing in a democracy.
Signed by the Chairman of the commission, retired DIG Parry Osayande, the communiqué urged attitudinal change on the part of the police, especially in the way they related with the public and reacted to allegations of brutality.
There is the need to take action against any officer that acts contrary to force orders and police regulations,`` it said, adding that training curriculum should be reviewed to contain elements that could produce respect for the police.
It noted that though the police were faced with challenges, including poor funding, rising crime, the need for training and re-training, corruption and poor image, there were many officers and men who were honourable, patriotic and hardworking.
The communiqué, however, advised the police to improve their image through the concept of respectful policing, management of information and image as well as checking corruption among the rank and file.
It called on the government to equip the force with ICT and scientific aid such as finger prints machines, forensic laboratories and camera systems, including CCTV, to enhance policing.
It also urged the National Assembly to pass the Police Act to enable the force to meet the challenges of policing in the 21st century.
Labour insists on warning strike on Wednesday.
Labour and Civil Society Coalition on Monday said workers would go ahead with their two-day warning strike on Wednesday unless the Federal Government signed into law the N18,000 minimum wage bill.
Joe Ajaero, who spoke for LASCO, told reporters that workers in both the public and private sectors had been directed to stay away from work from Wednesday if government failed to implement the agreement.
The only condition that will stop this action is the passage of the law for minimum wage for workers between now and tomorrow, said Ajaero, Secretary, National Union of Electricity Employees.
The union scribe said it would take the National Assembly only a few hours to sign and repeal the existing Act for the new bill to become a law.
Such law had been implemented by past leaders during Shehu Shagari regime. What is needed now is an amendment that will not take a lost time to implement, he said.
He said after the two days warning strike, labour would strategise on when to embark on a total strike if government failed to accede to workers’ demand.
Abiodun Ogunade, who represented the Trade Union Congress, appealed to the Federal Government to implement the wage for workers.
NLC had on Oct. 27 announced that workers would go on two days warning strike on Nov. 10 if the government failed to implement the N18, 000 it agreed to pay workers.
A committee on minimum wage headed by Justice Alfa Belgore submitted its report on the new wage to the government in April 2010 after several tripartite meetings with stakeholders.
Joe Ajaero, who spoke for LASCO, told reporters that workers in both the public and private sectors had been directed to stay away from work from Wednesday if government failed to implement the agreement.
The only condition that will stop this action is the passage of the law for minimum wage for workers between now and tomorrow, said Ajaero, Secretary, National Union of Electricity Employees.
The union scribe said it would take the National Assembly only a few hours to sign and repeal the existing Act for the new bill to become a law.
Such law had been implemented by past leaders during Shehu Shagari regime. What is needed now is an amendment that will not take a lost time to implement, he said.
He said after the two days warning strike, labour would strategise on when to embark on a total strike if government failed to accede to workers’ demand.
Abiodun Ogunade, who represented the Trade Union Congress, appealed to the Federal Government to implement the wage for workers.
NLC had on Oct. 27 announced that workers would go on two days warning strike on Nov. 10 if the government failed to implement the N18, 000 it agreed to pay workers.
A committee on minimum wage headed by Justice Alfa Belgore submitted its report on the new wage to the government in April 2010 after several tripartite meetings with stakeholders.
Constitutional amendment without presidential assent is nullity -- court
The amendments recently carried out on the 1999 Constitution by the National Assembly cannot become law and operational without the assent of the president, a Federal High Court has ruled.
Justice Okechukwu Okeke held on Monday in Lagos that the amendment would remain inchoate until approved by the president.
The 2010 Constitutional Amendment Act is null and void and will remain void until it is sent to the president for his approval, he said.
Okeke delivered a judgment in a suit filed by Olisa Agbakoba challenging the claim of the National Assembly that the president’s assent is not required on the amendments.
The National Assembly and the Attorney-General of the Federation are defendants in the suit.
Agbakoba, a former President of the Nigerian Bar Association, had argued that the refusal of the National Assembly to forward the constitution to the president for his assent was illegal.
His counsel, Emeka Chijioke, had prayed the court to declare that the Constitution (First Amendment ) Act 2010 passed by the National Assembly should not take effect as law without the assent of the president.
Chijioke also argued that in view of the provisions of Section 58 (1) of the 1999 Constitution, the assent of the president was a prerequisite to the amendments becoming law.
According to him, unless the assent of the president is overridden pursuant to Section 58 (5) of the Constitution, the president’s assent is sacrosanct before the amendments can become law.
Counsel to the National Assembly, Johnson Usman, had, however, prayed the court to strike out the suit on the grounds that the court lacked the jurisdiction to entertain it.
He also argued that Agbakoba lacked the competence to institute the suit, adding that the suit disclosed no reasonable cause of action against the AGF.
Usman told newsmen that his client would appeal against the judgment.
Justice Okechukwu Okeke held on Monday in Lagos that the amendment would remain inchoate until approved by the president.
The 2010 Constitutional Amendment Act is null and void and will remain void until it is sent to the president for his approval, he said.
Okeke delivered a judgment in a suit filed by Olisa Agbakoba challenging the claim of the National Assembly that the president’s assent is not required on the amendments.
The National Assembly and the Attorney-General of the Federation are defendants in the suit.
Agbakoba, a former President of the Nigerian Bar Association, had argued that the refusal of the National Assembly to forward the constitution to the president for his assent was illegal.
His counsel, Emeka Chijioke, had prayed the court to declare that the Constitution (First Amendment ) Act 2010 passed by the National Assembly should not take effect as law without the assent of the president.
Chijioke also argued that in view of the provisions of Section 58 (1) of the 1999 Constitution, the assent of the president was a prerequisite to the amendments becoming law.
According to him, unless the assent of the president is overridden pursuant to Section 58 (5) of the Constitution, the president’s assent is sacrosanct before the amendments can become law.
Counsel to the National Assembly, Johnson Usman, had, however, prayed the court to strike out the suit on the grounds that the court lacked the jurisdiction to entertain it.
He also argued that Agbakoba lacked the competence to institute the suit, adding that the suit disclosed no reasonable cause of action against the AGF.
Usman told newsmen that his client would appeal against the judgment.
Jobs:NDLEA to begin screening of applicants.
The National Drugs Law Enforcement Agency says it will on Tuesday commence the screening of applicants who applied for jobs with the Agency.
Head, Public Affairs of the Agency, Ofoyeju Mitchell said Only successful applicants would be invited for the screening.
Narcotic Superintendent and Agent Cadres shall write aptitude test on Nov. 13 and Nov. 14, 2010 respectively.
The Narcotic Assistant Cadre comprising NASS I to NASS III shall be screened at the Agency’s state headquarters nearest to the applicants and at the FCT Command, Abuja, between Nov. 10 to Nov. 12.
The selection process was to identify the best and most qualified, stressing that the written test would be the first task to be faced by the applicants.
Aptitude test shall take place simultaneously in all the 36 states of the Federation and the FCT and advised applicants to come along with their application acknowledgement slips.
Applicants were required to write the test in the state where they reside.
Applicants are reminded that any form of examination malpractice and acts of misconduct shall be dealt with in line with extant rules and regulations.
Head, Public Affairs of the Agency, Ofoyeju Mitchell said Only successful applicants would be invited for the screening.
Narcotic Superintendent and Agent Cadres shall write aptitude test on Nov. 13 and Nov. 14, 2010 respectively.
The Narcotic Assistant Cadre comprising NASS I to NASS III shall be screened at the Agency’s state headquarters nearest to the applicants and at the FCT Command, Abuja, between Nov. 10 to Nov. 12.
The selection process was to identify the best and most qualified, stressing that the written test would be the first task to be faced by the applicants.
Aptitude test shall take place simultaneously in all the 36 states of the Federation and the FCT and advised applicants to come along with their application acknowledgement slips.
Applicants were required to write the test in the state where they reside.
Applicants are reminded that any form of examination malpractice and acts of misconduct shall be dealt with in line with extant rules and regulations.
Anti-corruption Committee to partner govt. agencies at ports
The Port Anti-Corruption Standing Committee is to partner other government agencies at the ports in its fight against corruption.
Coordinator of the committee, Enoche Ogenyi said the committee would meet with all the agencies on Tuesday.
According to her, because of the activities of the committee, the level of corruption at the ports has reduced drastically.
She explained that although no specific parameter was used, the committee usually embarked on random sampling, which had helped to reduce the trend.
Ogenyi also attributed the reduction of corruption at the ports to the introduction of electronic transactions by all operators.
The anti-corruption committee was inaugurated 10 years ago to rid the ports of all forms of corrupt practices, including fake documentation.
Ogenyi emerged as the coordinator of the committee two weeks ago, following the death of Suleiman Hameen, who died inside a plane on his way from Hajj in September.
Coordinator of the committee, Enoche Ogenyi said the committee would meet with all the agencies on Tuesday.
According to her, because of the activities of the committee, the level of corruption at the ports has reduced drastically.
She explained that although no specific parameter was used, the committee usually embarked on random sampling, which had helped to reduce the trend.
Ogenyi also attributed the reduction of corruption at the ports to the introduction of electronic transactions by all operators.
The anti-corruption committee was inaugurated 10 years ago to rid the ports of all forms of corrupt practices, including fake documentation.
Ogenyi emerged as the coordinator of the committee two weeks ago, following the death of Suleiman Hameen, who died inside a plane on his way from Hajj in September.
NIGERIAN WARNED AGAINST STRANGE CARS.
Commissioner of Police in charge of the Anti-Bomb Squad, Chris Olakpe has warned Nigerians to be wary of any strange car parked in their neighbourhood for too long.
Olakpe also cautioned Nigerians to report persons who suddenly develop interest in acquiring large quantities of acid.
He said these were minor ways of checking terrorism, said Everybody must be involved in community policing and Every strange movement in all areas should be watched closely.
People should beware of persons carrying and placing battery close to where people are gathered or pouring acid inside vehicles.
Police is not everywhere, therefore, every man should become police of everybody; policing should go beyond the corporate policeman.
He advised that because of the peculiar nature of the Federal Capital Territory, close circuit television should be placed in its streets.
Olakpe stressed that corporate organisations, hotels and big businesses should have CCTV in and around their premises.
According to him, this will help during investigations and it will put fear in criminals because they know they are being watched.
Olakpe said in the last 15 months, his men had detonated more than 30 bombs in the eastern part of country.
Olakpe said in the event of any blast, people in the vicinity should lie flat on the ground for about 30minutes to avoid being hit.
Olakpe also cautioned Nigerians to report persons who suddenly develop interest in acquiring large quantities of acid.
He said these were minor ways of checking terrorism, said Everybody must be involved in community policing and Every strange movement in all areas should be watched closely.
People should beware of persons carrying and placing battery close to where people are gathered or pouring acid inside vehicles.
Police is not everywhere, therefore, every man should become police of everybody; policing should go beyond the corporate policeman.
He advised that because of the peculiar nature of the Federal Capital Territory, close circuit television should be placed in its streets.
Olakpe stressed that corporate organisations, hotels and big businesses should have CCTV in and around their premises.
According to him, this will help during investigations and it will put fear in criminals because they know they are being watched.
Olakpe said in the last 15 months, his men had detonated more than 30 bombs in the eastern part of country.
Olakpe said in the event of any blast, people in the vicinity should lie flat on the ground for about 30minutes to avoid being hit.
Police did not call for scrapping of NCDSC says-- Ringim
The Inspector-General of Police , Hafiz Ringim, said on Monday that he did not call for the scrapping of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps.
I never called for the scrapping of the Corps, the Police Force never did that too, Ringim told Newsmen .
Our position is that, the job of the Nigerian Police Force as contained in the 1999 Nigerian Constitution is very clearly stated that there shall be one police force for the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Ringim, who described the allegation as journalistic mischief, however, called for a revisit of the Act establishing the Corps.
The I-G said when put side by side one is certainly trying to override the other and the constitution in this regard should be supreme.
The government will do well to look at the provisions of the Constitution that established the Nigerian Police Force as well as the National Assembly Act that established the NSCDC.
The inspector general, who also spoke on current decay in the police, said the situation called for urgent rejuvenation.
He said with the implementation of the current reform programme, the serious and disturbing security challenges currently facing the country would become a thing of the past.
The government is determined, having realised that there is no other option than to strengthen and empower the police and we have since commenced the reform programme, the I-G said.
Ringim noted that there were emerging security challenges globally and that Nigeria was not the only country facing such challenges.
He, however, solicited the support of the public in addressing those challenges.
I never called for the scrapping of the Corps, the Police Force never did that too, Ringim told Newsmen .
Our position is that, the job of the Nigerian Police Force as contained in the 1999 Nigerian Constitution is very clearly stated that there shall be one police force for the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Ringim, who described the allegation as journalistic mischief, however, called for a revisit of the Act establishing the Corps.
The I-G said when put side by side one is certainly trying to override the other and the constitution in this regard should be supreme.
The government will do well to look at the provisions of the Constitution that established the Nigerian Police Force as well as the National Assembly Act that established the NSCDC.
The inspector general, who also spoke on current decay in the police, said the situation called for urgent rejuvenation.
He said with the implementation of the current reform programme, the serious and disturbing security challenges currently facing the country would become a thing of the past.
The government is determined, having realised that there is no other option than to strengthen and empower the police and we have since commenced the reform programme, the I-G said.
Ringim noted that there were emerging security challenges globally and that Nigeria was not the only country facing such challenges.
He, however, solicited the support of the public in addressing those challenges.
Sales rep in court over theft of hair, beauty products.
A sales representative, Kingsley Anyanwu, who allegedly stole hair and beauty products worth N211,000 was on Monday arraigned in Lagos.
Anyanwu (30) is standing trial on a two-count-charge of conspiracy and stealing before Chief Magistrate Abiola Soladoye of the Surulere Chief Magistrate’s Court.
The prosecutor Insp. Olaide Sunday told the court that the accused on Oct. 3, at No 58 Akanki Onitiri Close, off Eric Moore Road, conspired with one other person now at large to steal the goods.
The prosecutor said the accused earlier told the owners, Smart Mark Ltd., that his vehicle broke down but later changed his story that the goods were stolen.
He said the goods included 96 units of Beautiful Beginning kit, 32 units of D and I Relaxer kit, 41 units of Blue ice big ball roll-on.
Others are 24 units of Legacy Deo, 15 units of Adhoc Roll on and 14 units of Halo soap pink grape fruits.
Sunday said the offence contravened Sections 516 and 390(9), Criminal Code, Laws of Lagos State.
The accused, however, pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Soladoye granted him bail in the sum of N100,000 with two sureties in like sum.
She adjourned the case till Nov. 26, for further hearing.
Anyanwu (30) is standing trial on a two-count-charge of conspiracy and stealing before Chief Magistrate Abiola Soladoye of the Surulere Chief Magistrate’s Court.
The prosecutor Insp. Olaide Sunday told the court that the accused on Oct. 3, at No 58 Akanki Onitiri Close, off Eric Moore Road, conspired with one other person now at large to steal the goods.
The prosecutor said the accused earlier told the owners, Smart Mark Ltd., that his vehicle broke down but later changed his story that the goods were stolen.
He said the goods included 96 units of Beautiful Beginning kit, 32 units of D and I Relaxer kit, 41 units of Blue ice big ball roll-on.
Others are 24 units of Legacy Deo, 15 units of Adhoc Roll on and 14 units of Halo soap pink grape fruits.
Sunday said the offence contravened Sections 516 and 390(9), Criminal Code, Laws of Lagos State.
The accused, however, pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Soladoye granted him bail in the sum of N100,000 with two sureties in like sum.
She adjourned the case till Nov. 26, for further hearing.
Court sentences lawyer to 2 months imprisonment over poor hygiene.
A Grade “A” Customary Court in Mushin, Lagos, on Monday sentenced a lawyer, Adeniyi Adesina, to two months’ imprisonment for the poor sanitation of a building under his charge.
Court President, Abayomi Ipaye, however, gave Adesina, the caretaker of No. 34, Showunmi St., Mushin, of an option of N10,000 fine after he had pleaded guilty.
Ipaye, however, ordered that the fine must be paid before 4 p.m. on Nov. 9.
The caretaker had admitted failure to carry out proper maintenance of the dilapidated bungalow, but promised to effect the repairs soon.
A health officer in the Mushin Local Government, Raji Razak, had said Adesina failed to repair the building’s leaking roof and dilapidated walls.
Razak said the caretaker also failed to repair the defective septic tanks and the building’s collapsed fence.
He said the alleged poor sanitation was punishable under Section 7 of the Lagos State Environmental Health Law.
Court President, Abayomi Ipaye, however, gave Adesina, the caretaker of No. 34, Showunmi St., Mushin, of an option of N10,000 fine after he had pleaded guilty.
Ipaye, however, ordered that the fine must be paid before 4 p.m. on Nov. 9.
The caretaker had admitted failure to carry out proper maintenance of the dilapidated bungalow, but promised to effect the repairs soon.
A health officer in the Mushin Local Government, Raji Razak, had said Adesina failed to repair the building’s leaking roof and dilapidated walls.
Razak said the caretaker also failed to repair the defective septic tanks and the building’s collapsed fence.
He said the alleged poor sanitation was punishable under Section 7 of the Lagos State Environmental Health Law.
Police Mobile Force: Most bastardised, cannibalised Says-- Police Boss
The Inspector-General of Police, Hafiz Ringim, on Monday in London described the Police Mobile Force, the force's striking unit as the most bastardised and cannibalised outfit.
Ringim said the unit was over- staffed, which informed a recent downsizing of the outfit.
Ringim said the security of the country did not hinge on private individuals alone, adding that every Nigerian was entitled to police protection.
The inspector general said the police authorities embarked on the downsizing of the PMF in order to audit its strength.
He noted that the downsizing was also aimed at re-deploying men of the force to appropriate operational base at the various police stations.
According to the inspector general, the unit will provide security to government officials and VIPs as authorised by law.
On the 2011 elections, the I-G said the police would not tolerate situations where some individuals abused police protection at election period.
He condemned the situations were some politicians, who enjoyed police protection, used them to perpetrate havoc during or after elections.
Ringim said the unit was over- staffed, which informed a recent downsizing of the outfit.
Ringim said the security of the country did not hinge on private individuals alone, adding that every Nigerian was entitled to police protection.
The inspector general said the police authorities embarked on the downsizing of the PMF in order to audit its strength.
He noted that the downsizing was also aimed at re-deploying men of the force to appropriate operational base at the various police stations.
According to the inspector general, the unit will provide security to government officials and VIPs as authorised by law.
On the 2011 elections, the I-G said the police would not tolerate situations where some individuals abused police protection at election period.
He condemned the situations were some politicians, who enjoyed police protection, used them to perpetrate havoc during or after elections.
Two alleged arsonists granted N350,000 bail each.
Two men who allegedly set fire to a store that destroyed clothing materials worth N2.1 million were on Monday granted bail in the sum of N350,000 with three sureties each.
The duo, Stanley Nwachukwu, 27, and Daniel Moweta, 26, were arraigned on a two-count charge before Mrs O.O. Oshin of the Apapa Chief Magistrate’s Court, Lagos.
The Prosecutor, Cpl. John Iberedem, told the court that the accused, with others at large, on Nov. 1 conspired to set ablaze the store located in Awodiora Market, Ajegunle.
He said the duo willfully and unlawfully set fire to the store, the property of one Mrs Caroline Osuji, which contained clothing materials.
The accused persons burnt various lace, damask, silk and linen materials with the market value of N2.1million, he said.
The prosecutor said the offence was contrary to and punishable under Sections 443 (A) and 516 of the Criminal Code, Cap. C17, Vol. 2, Laws of Lagos 2003.
The accused, however, pleaded not guilty to the two-count charge of felony and arson.
In granting the accused bail, Chief Magistrate Oshin, said the two sureties must be civil servants on GL 12 and above.
She adjourned further hearing in the case till Dec. 6.
The duo, Stanley Nwachukwu, 27, and Daniel Moweta, 26, were arraigned on a two-count charge before Mrs O.O. Oshin of the Apapa Chief Magistrate’s Court, Lagos.
The Prosecutor, Cpl. John Iberedem, told the court that the accused, with others at large, on Nov. 1 conspired to set ablaze the store located in Awodiora Market, Ajegunle.
He said the duo willfully and unlawfully set fire to the store, the property of one Mrs Caroline Osuji, which contained clothing materials.
The accused persons burnt various lace, damask, silk and linen materials with the market value of N2.1million, he said.
The prosecutor said the offence was contrary to and punishable under Sections 443 (A) and 516 of the Criminal Code, Cap. C17, Vol. 2, Laws of Lagos 2003.
The accused, however, pleaded not guilty to the two-count charge of felony and arson.
In granting the accused bail, Chief Magistrate Oshin, said the two sureties must be civil servants on GL 12 and above.
She adjourned further hearing in the case till Dec. 6.
Court Orders bank to pay entitlements of former employee.
An Ikeja High Court in Lagos on Monday ordered the United Bank for Africa Plc to pay its former employee, Gogo Anyanwu, his entitlements after he resigned from the bank following deductions from his salary.
The deductions were to repay a loan he granted a customer who later took ill.
Justice Opeyemi Oke, in her judgment, said it was illegal for any bank to recover loans by debiting its employees without their consent.
Anyanwu ,who was an Assistant Banking Officer had recommended that two customers, PMO Global limited and First Omega Network Limited, be given a loan of N2 million and N4 million respectively.
The loans were granted but the second creditor defaulted with the repayment of the entire loan because its Chief Executive Officer took ill.
In a bid to recover the loan, UBA converted it to a personal loan to Anyanwu, deducting it from his emoluments.
The claimant had told the court that his June and July 2005 salary of N51, 015 were withheld, as well as July 2005 Guranteed Bonus Pay of N341, 391.
Also withheld was his five-year long service benefit of N650, 000 and disengagement benefits of N123, 500.
He said he was forced to resign from the bank in June 2006 following intimidations and threats from his employers over the loans.
The court ordered the bank to pay Anyanwu all the withheld money, as well as N500, 000 as general damages and N300,000 as cost of the suit.
The bank is to pay an interest on the total sum at the rate of 15 per cent per annum from July 2006 until the day the judgment was delivered, as well as 10 percent interest on the sum until it is liquidated.
Oke held that there was no doubt the claimant suffered from the bank’s obnoxious policy, adding that there was no evidence that the claimant applied for a personal loan.
She held that the bank had no right to transfer a third party debt to any employee without lawful reason.
Such practice, she held, “was repugnant to natural justice, equity and good conscience.”
According to her, the claimant only recommended the creditor and was not the one who approved the loan.
The bank’s managers, she held, had a right to turn the loan application down but failed to do so.
Oke said It is evident that the granting of overdraft facility is not a one man affair as it involves painstaking scrutiny and an approval process that involves the entire chain of command depending on the amount requested.
I therefore hold that the claimant cannot be held responsible for the failure of the creditor to repay the loan, she held.
The deductions were to repay a loan he granted a customer who later took ill.
Justice Opeyemi Oke, in her judgment, said it was illegal for any bank to recover loans by debiting its employees without their consent.
Anyanwu ,who was an Assistant Banking Officer had recommended that two customers, PMO Global limited and First Omega Network Limited, be given a loan of N2 million and N4 million respectively.
The loans were granted but the second creditor defaulted with the repayment of the entire loan because its Chief Executive Officer took ill.
In a bid to recover the loan, UBA converted it to a personal loan to Anyanwu, deducting it from his emoluments.
The claimant had told the court that his June and July 2005 salary of N51, 015 were withheld, as well as July 2005 Guranteed Bonus Pay of N341, 391.
Also withheld was his five-year long service benefit of N650, 000 and disengagement benefits of N123, 500.
He said he was forced to resign from the bank in June 2006 following intimidations and threats from his employers over the loans.
The court ordered the bank to pay Anyanwu all the withheld money, as well as N500, 000 as general damages and N300,000 as cost of the suit.
The bank is to pay an interest on the total sum at the rate of 15 per cent per annum from July 2006 until the day the judgment was delivered, as well as 10 percent interest on the sum until it is liquidated.
Oke held that there was no doubt the claimant suffered from the bank’s obnoxious policy, adding that there was no evidence that the claimant applied for a personal loan.
She held that the bank had no right to transfer a third party debt to any employee without lawful reason.
Such practice, she held, “was repugnant to natural justice, equity and good conscience.”
According to her, the claimant only recommended the creditor and was not the one who approved the loan.
The bank’s managers, she held, had a right to turn the loan application down but failed to do so.
Oke said It is evident that the granting of overdraft facility is not a one man affair as it involves painstaking scrutiny and an approval process that involves the entire chain of command depending on the amount requested.
I therefore hold that the claimant cannot be held responsible for the failure of the creditor to repay the loan, she held.
My husband abandoned me – Woman tells court.
A 43-year-old teacher, Olayemi Amechi, on Monday urged a Shomolu Grade “A” Customary Court to dissolve her 18-year-old marriage over alleged neglect by the husband.
My husband did not just abandon his family but also neglected me as he had married another wife, with whom he has two sons, without my consent”, said Olayemi.
Olayemi said her husband, Ikechukwu Amechi, suddenly disappeared from the matrimonial home and rebuffed all efforts for reconciliation.
She pleaded with the court to order Amechi to pay her N20,000 monthly for her daughter’s school fees and N30, 000 monthly allowance for upkeep.
But Amechi, who claimed that he was presently jobless, said he still loved his wife.
Court President, Modupe Bajulaiye, said all efforts by the court to reconcile the estranged couple had yielded no fruitful result and adjourned the case till Nov 24 for further hearing.
My husband did not just abandon his family but also neglected me as he had married another wife, with whom he has two sons, without my consent”, said Olayemi.
Olayemi said her husband, Ikechukwu Amechi, suddenly disappeared from the matrimonial home and rebuffed all efforts for reconciliation.
She pleaded with the court to order Amechi to pay her N20,000 monthly for her daughter’s school fees and N30, 000 monthly allowance for upkeep.
But Amechi, who claimed that he was presently jobless, said he still loved his wife.
Court President, Modupe Bajulaiye, said all efforts by the court to reconcile the estranged couple had yielded no fruitful result and adjourned the case till Nov 24 for further hearing.
Immigration vows to check trans-border crimes.
The Nigeria Immigration Service has vowed to sustain the fight against all forms of trans-border crimes, especially those that are likely to rubbish the new electronic passport.
Comptroller-General of Immigration, Rose Uzoma gave the assurance while handing over two suspected human traffickers to officials of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons.
Uzoma said the suspects whose names were being withheld, hailed from Ogun and Lagos States and were handed over alongside their six victims, which included a six year old boy.
According to her, the suspects were arrested by vigilant immigration officers at the Kwara State Passport Office in Ilorin while trying to procure the new e-passports for their victims.
She said the suspects claimed that the victims were the biological children of one Thomas.
Uzoma said on cross examination, immigration officers discovered that the six children who were purported to be members of one Olatilewa family from Lagos State, bore different surnames and hailed from Edo and Ogun States.
She commending her officers for their security alertness, promising to give such dedicated officers higher challenges and recognition.
Uzoma warned that any immigration officer caught aiding and abetting the abuse of the e-passport would be dismissed and prosecuted.
In a related development, Uzoma paraded two suspected passport and visa racketeers with one of their victim, whose names were being withheld.
The suspects were arrested at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos, while attempting to board a Turkish airline flight en route to Ukraine with 61 international passports concealed in their luggage.
She directed the legal unit of the service to release the suspects on bail to responsible sureties, who must be senior civil servants residing in Abuja, while investigation continues.
Comptroller-General of Immigration, Rose Uzoma gave the assurance while handing over two suspected human traffickers to officials of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons.
Uzoma said the suspects whose names were being withheld, hailed from Ogun and Lagos States and were handed over alongside their six victims, which included a six year old boy.
According to her, the suspects were arrested by vigilant immigration officers at the Kwara State Passport Office in Ilorin while trying to procure the new e-passports for their victims.
She said the suspects claimed that the victims were the biological children of one Thomas.
Uzoma said on cross examination, immigration officers discovered that the six children who were purported to be members of one Olatilewa family from Lagos State, bore different surnames and hailed from Edo and Ogun States.
She commending her officers for their security alertness, promising to give such dedicated officers higher challenges and recognition.
Uzoma warned that any immigration officer caught aiding and abetting the abuse of the e-passport would be dismissed and prosecuted.
In a related development, Uzoma paraded two suspected passport and visa racketeers with one of their victim, whose names were being withheld.
The suspects were arrested at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos, while attempting to board a Turkish airline flight en route to Ukraine with 61 international passports concealed in their luggage.
She directed the legal unit of the service to release the suspects on bail to responsible sureties, who must be senior civil servants residing in Abuja, while investigation continues.
Friday, November 5, 2010
FRSC, Road Safety Advisory Association, hold Ember Months campaign
The Federal Road Safety Commission in collaboration with the Road Safety Advisory Association, Special Marshal Unit 9, Surulere, held an ember months enlightenment campaign for motorists.
The Assistant Corps Commander, Surulere, Gregory Drambi said the campaign became necessary because of the approaching festive seasons.
Drambi said motorists were educated on the importance of seat belt, the dangers of using mobile phone while driving, over-speeding, over-loading and driving under the influence of alcohol.
He urged drivers to give consideration to other road users.
The campaign tagged Remember Your Life is in Your Hand began from Ojuelegba to Funsho Williams Avenue through Costain Roundabout to Bode Thomas Street.
The Public Enlightenment Education Officer, Special Marshal Department, Bashorun Olaide said the Road Safety Advisory Association was ready to assist in reducing crashes during the festive period.
The Unit 9 of the Special Marshal is working tirelessly through public enlightenment to reduce crashes in designated areas,’’ Olaide said.
The Assistant Corps Commander, Surulere, Gregory Drambi said the campaign became necessary because of the approaching festive seasons.
Drambi said motorists were educated on the importance of seat belt, the dangers of using mobile phone while driving, over-speeding, over-loading and driving under the influence of alcohol.
He urged drivers to give consideration to other road users.
The campaign tagged Remember Your Life is in Your Hand began from Ojuelegba to Funsho Williams Avenue through Costain Roundabout to Bode Thomas Street.
The Public Enlightenment Education Officer, Special Marshal Department, Bashorun Olaide said the Road Safety Advisory Association was ready to assist in reducing crashes during the festive period.
The Unit 9 of the Special Marshal is working tirelessly through public enlightenment to reduce crashes in designated areas,’’ Olaide said.
2 motorcyclists remanded in prison
Two commercial motorcyclists, docked on Friday in Lagos for allegedly stealing a motorcycle, have been remanded in Ikoyi Prisons pending when they would perfect their bail conditions.
The accused, Umaru Abubakar, 27, and Ali Abdulahi, 26, were arraigned at the Surulere Chief Magistrate’s Court for the alleged theft of a Bajaj motorcycle, valued at N99,000.
The duo, standing trial before Chief Magistrate Abiola Soladoye, pleaded not guilty to the two-count charge of stealing and conspiracy.
Soladoye had granted the accused bail in the sum of N50,000 with two sureties in like sum, but ordered that they be remanded in prison pending when they would satisfy the bail conditions.
The prosecutor, Insp. Olaide Sunday, said the two accused on Oct. 23 at Aguda Str., Surulere Lagos, conspired and stole the motorcycle, property of one Mrs Sherifatu Ojo.
Sunday alleged that the duo stole the motorcycle after they had operated it as a commercial motorcycle on behalf of the complainant and later claimed that it was missing.
He said the offence contravened Sections 516 and 390(9) Criminal Code Laws of Lagos state.
The case has been adjourned till Nov. 24 for further hearing.
The accused, Umaru Abubakar, 27, and Ali Abdulahi, 26, were arraigned at the Surulere Chief Magistrate’s Court for the alleged theft of a Bajaj motorcycle, valued at N99,000.
The duo, standing trial before Chief Magistrate Abiola Soladoye, pleaded not guilty to the two-count charge of stealing and conspiracy.
Soladoye had granted the accused bail in the sum of N50,000 with two sureties in like sum, but ordered that they be remanded in prison pending when they would satisfy the bail conditions.
The prosecutor, Insp. Olaide Sunday, said the two accused on Oct. 23 at Aguda Str., Surulere Lagos, conspired and stole the motorcycle, property of one Mrs Sherifatu Ojo.
Sunday alleged that the duo stole the motorcycle after they had operated it as a commercial motorcycle on behalf of the complainant and later claimed that it was missing.
He said the offence contravened Sections 516 and 390(9) Criminal Code Laws of Lagos state.
The case has been adjourned till Nov. 24 for further hearing.
4 charged with assault
The police in Lagos on Friday arraigned four for persons for allegedly assaulting a company director.
Mary Sunday (24), Richard Akpan (30), Kingsley Sunday (36) and Christiana Agim (26) were charged before Magistrate B.O Osunsanmi of the Somolu Magistrate’s Court, but they pleaded not guilty.
The prosecutor, Adegoke Akinlebi, said the accused assaulted Mr Emeka Wilson, the managing director of a marketing company, at about 10 a.m. on Nov. 4 at Abiodun Junction in Shomolu.
Akinlebi said the accused also damaged some of the company’s property.
He explained that the misunderstanding started when Sunday, an employee of Wilson, demanded her salary two weeks after she was employed.
Akinlebi said the alleged assault was contrary to Section 351of the Criminal Code of Lagos State.
The four persons, however, pleaded not guilty to the two-count charge and were granted bail by the magistrate in the sum of N50,000 with a surety each.
The court adjourned the case till Dec. 10 for further hearing.
Mary Sunday (24), Richard Akpan (30), Kingsley Sunday (36) and Christiana Agim (26) were charged before Magistrate B.O Osunsanmi of the Somolu Magistrate’s Court, but they pleaded not guilty.
The prosecutor, Adegoke Akinlebi, said the accused assaulted Mr Emeka Wilson, the managing director of a marketing company, at about 10 a.m. on Nov. 4 at Abiodun Junction in Shomolu.
Akinlebi said the accused also damaged some of the company’s property.
He explained that the misunderstanding started when Sunday, an employee of Wilson, demanded her salary two weeks after she was employed.
Akinlebi said the alleged assault was contrary to Section 351of the Criminal Code of Lagos State.
The four persons, however, pleaded not guilty to the two-count charge and were granted bail by the magistrate in the sum of N50,000 with a surety each.
The court adjourned the case till Dec. 10 for further hearing.
Thursday, November 4, 2010
NAPTIP to enlighten youths on traveling abroad legally
The National Agency for the Prohibition of Traffic in Persons NAPTIP says it will embark on massive campaign on the need for young Nigerians to travel abroad legally.
NAPTIP’s Southwest Zonal Head, Godwin Morka, said on Thursday that the campaign was to check rampant deportation over forged documents.
Morka said about 1,500 Nigerians engaged in foreign trips annually through falsification of travel documents.
According to him, young Nigerians have devised unscrupulous ways of falsifying visas and other documents to enable them travel abroad.
The issue of illegal immigration is today linked to human trafficking, such that in general terms, we can say that trafficking is an irregular kind of migration.
Illegal immigration now revolves around human smuggling. Taking people to other countries without the necessary documents,’’ he said.
The NAPTIP leader said so many young Nigerians often get stranded in the process of using false documents to travel abroad.
It is an ugly development that should be tackled headlong because it is not good for the image of this country that so many people are being repatriated daily,’’ he said.
Morka claimed that Nigeria’s new e-passport was being tampered with by syndicates who give forged visas and passports out at exorbitant charges.
The syndicates carry out their operations at the nation’s land borders and at the airports, according to him.
He described the situation as unhealthy for Nigeria’s immigration policy.
NAPTIP’s Southwest Zonal Head, Godwin Morka, said on Thursday that the campaign was to check rampant deportation over forged documents.
Morka said about 1,500 Nigerians engaged in foreign trips annually through falsification of travel documents.
According to him, young Nigerians have devised unscrupulous ways of falsifying visas and other documents to enable them travel abroad.
The issue of illegal immigration is today linked to human trafficking, such that in general terms, we can say that trafficking is an irregular kind of migration.
Illegal immigration now revolves around human smuggling. Taking people to other countries without the necessary documents,’’ he said.
The NAPTIP leader said so many young Nigerians often get stranded in the process of using false documents to travel abroad.
It is an ugly development that should be tackled headlong because it is not good for the image of this country that so many people are being repatriated daily,’’ he said.
Morka claimed that Nigeria’s new e-passport was being tampered with by syndicates who give forged visas and passports out at exorbitant charges.
The syndicates carry out their operations at the nation’s land borders and at the airports, according to him.
He described the situation as unhealthy for Nigeria’s immigration policy.
Brothers charged with assaulting defence corps member over petty trading
Two brothers on Thursday appeared before an Ikeja Magistrate’s Court for allegedly assaulting a civil defence corps member who refused them entry into an NYSC orientation camp to trade.
The brothers-- Favour Udofi (32) and Uzoma Udofi (24) -- are facing a two-count charge of conspiracy and assault before Magistrate C. J. Momodu.
They, however, pleaded not guilty.
The Police Prosecutor, Insp. Augustine Orji, said that the defence corps member, Lateef Wasiu, prevented the brothers from entering the camp after they showed him an identity card belonging to a woman.
Orji said Wasiu had demanded to know the identities of the men and their intention.
He said the Wasiu was dissatisfied with the claim of one of the brothers that the owner of the identity card allotted them a space in the camp for petty trading.
The prosecutor said the brothers, displeased at Wasiu’s decision, grabbed him, gave him fist blows and tore his uniform.
He said the alleged offences were committed on Oct. 31 at the NYSC Orientation Camp, Iyana-Ipaja.
The court granted bail to the brothers in the sum of N80,000 with two sureties each, and adjourned further hearing in the case till Dec. 12.
The brothers-- Favour Udofi (32) and Uzoma Udofi (24) -- are facing a two-count charge of conspiracy and assault before Magistrate C. J. Momodu.
They, however, pleaded not guilty.
The Police Prosecutor, Insp. Augustine Orji, said that the defence corps member, Lateef Wasiu, prevented the brothers from entering the camp after they showed him an identity card belonging to a woman.
Orji said Wasiu had demanded to know the identities of the men and their intention.
He said the Wasiu was dissatisfied with the claim of one of the brothers that the owner of the identity card allotted them a space in the camp for petty trading.
The prosecutor said the brothers, displeased at Wasiu’s decision, grabbed him, gave him fist blows and tore his uniform.
He said the alleged offences were committed on Oct. 31 at the NYSC Orientation Camp, Iyana-Ipaja.
The court granted bail to the brothers in the sum of N80,000 with two sureties each, and adjourned further hearing in the case till Dec. 12.
Man collapses while testifying in divorce suit
The petitioner in a divorce suit, Mr Anthony Okoli (45), on Thursday collapsed while giving evidence before a Grade “A” Customary Court in Mushin, Lagos State.
The incident stalled proceedings in the suit for about 20 minutes.
Okoli, whose first marriage produced a girl that has given him two grand-children, was revived with the help of the court clerk, Mr Gabriel Akoro, who fanned him and poured water on him.
Okoli wanted to continue his evidence after his revival, the Court President, Abayomi Ipaye, stopped him.
Ipaye advised him to go and take care of his health before further evidence.
Anthony, who had testified for 10 minute before he collapsed, had told the court how his wife, Ijeoma, allegedly attempted to kill him with hot water.
He alleged that Ijeoma (35) poured hot water on him, resulting in the peeling off of the skin of his legs and some other parts of his body.
He prayed the court to dissolve the relationship.
Counsel to Ijeoma, H. U. Odia, told the court that her client was ready for divorce, but should be compensated by her husband before the dissolution of the union that was childless.
The court adjourned further hearing in the case till Dec. 7 to enable Anthony to take care of his health.
The incident stalled proceedings in the suit for about 20 minutes.
Okoli, whose first marriage produced a girl that has given him two grand-children, was revived with the help of the court clerk, Mr Gabriel Akoro, who fanned him and poured water on him.
Okoli wanted to continue his evidence after his revival, the Court President, Abayomi Ipaye, stopped him.
Ipaye advised him to go and take care of his health before further evidence.
Anthony, who had testified for 10 minute before he collapsed, had told the court how his wife, Ijeoma, allegedly attempted to kill him with hot water.
He alleged that Ijeoma (35) poured hot water on him, resulting in the peeling off of the skin of his legs and some other parts of his body.
He prayed the court to dissolve the relationship.
Counsel to Ijeoma, H. U. Odia, told the court that her client was ready for divorce, but should be compensated by her husband before the dissolution of the union that was childless.
The court adjourned further hearing in the case till Dec. 7 to enable Anthony to take care of his health.
EFCC's failure to present witness stalls Borisade's case
The failure by EFCC to present a principal witness at the trial of former aviation minister Babalola Borishade and three others on Thursday forced an Abuja High Court to adjourn the case.
Justice Abubakar Umar adjourned the case to Nov. 25 due to the failure of the EFCC to present Mr Reuben Omosigho for cross examination by Adegboyega Awomolo , counsel to the third accused.
The third accused, Timothy Dairo, a former personal assistant to Borisade, is standing trial alongside an Australian, George Eider, and Rowland Iyayi, a former Managing Director of the Nigeria Airspace Management Agency .
Borisade and the other accused are being tried for allegedly receiving gratification in the award of the N5.6 billion Safe Tower projects in the country.
The principal prosecution witness had in August told the court that Dairo made oral and written confessions during interrogation that the committee that approved the N5.6 billion aviation contract was a phantom one.
But at the resumed hearing on Thursday, Awomolo, counsel to Dairo, told the court that his client ``wants to prove that he made the statements under duress’’.
Umar ordered the EFCC to present the principal witness for cross-examination by Awomolo.
Counsel to EFCC, David Enda, promised to produce the witness by the next hearing date.
Justice Abubakar Umar adjourned the case to Nov. 25 due to the failure of the EFCC to present Mr Reuben Omosigho for cross examination by Adegboyega Awomolo , counsel to the third accused.
The third accused, Timothy Dairo, a former personal assistant to Borisade, is standing trial alongside an Australian, George Eider, and Rowland Iyayi, a former Managing Director of the Nigeria Airspace Management Agency .
Borisade and the other accused are being tried for allegedly receiving gratification in the award of the N5.6 billion Safe Tower projects in the country.
The principal prosecution witness had in August told the court that Dairo made oral and written confessions during interrogation that the committee that approved the N5.6 billion aviation contract was a phantom one.
But at the resumed hearing on Thursday, Awomolo, counsel to Dairo, told the court that his client ``wants to prove that he made the statements under duress’’.
Umar ordered the EFCC to present the principal witness for cross-examination by Awomolo.
Counsel to EFCC, David Enda, promised to produce the witness by the next hearing date.
Pastor, two others docked over N7.7 million fraud
Three persons, including a pastor, were on Thursday arraigned before an Ikeja High Court in Lagos for allegedly defrauding one Mrs Rose Bello of N7.7 million.
The trio Rev. Akanji Kehinde, Enoch Idris and Amuzie Oku-Ani-- were dragged before the court by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission EFCC.
The accused persons are facing a six-count charge, including fraud and conspiracy to commit fraud.
Counsel to the EFCC, Cosmas Ogwu alleged that the accused persons and one Edwin Onyuku, now at large, collected various sums of money from Bello between May 2008 and June 2008.
Ogwu further alleged that it was under the pretext of assisting the victim’s company, BVM Productions to secure a contract with the Nigerian Football Association .
He told the court that they collected the money in five installments of N1.1 million, N1 million, N1.2 million, N3.5 million and N850, 000 respectively.
The three accused, he claimed, perpetrated the fraud using Communication Development Company Ltd, M.T Olives and Stephen Ltd, and Utex Nig. Ltd as fronts.
According to him, the offences contravened Section 8 (a) and 1(3) of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Related Offences Act No. 14 of 2006.
However, the accused persons pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Presiding Justice Olabisi Akinlade ordered that the accused persons be remanded in prison custody and fixed Nov. 18 for ruling on their bail application.
The trio Rev. Akanji Kehinde, Enoch Idris and Amuzie Oku-Ani-- were dragged before the court by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission EFCC.
The accused persons are facing a six-count charge, including fraud and conspiracy to commit fraud.
Counsel to the EFCC, Cosmas Ogwu alleged that the accused persons and one Edwin Onyuku, now at large, collected various sums of money from Bello between May 2008 and June 2008.
Ogwu further alleged that it was under the pretext of assisting the victim’s company, BVM Productions to secure a contract with the Nigerian Football Association .
He told the court that they collected the money in five installments of N1.1 million, N1 million, N1.2 million, N3.5 million and N850, 000 respectively.
The three accused, he claimed, perpetrated the fraud using Communication Development Company Ltd, M.T Olives and Stephen Ltd, and Utex Nig. Ltd as fronts.
According to him, the offences contravened Section 8 (a) and 1(3) of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Related Offences Act No. 14 of 2006.
However, the accused persons pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Presiding Justice Olabisi Akinlade ordered that the accused persons be remanded in prison custody and fixed Nov. 18 for ruling on their bail application.
Court jails 18 tenants for poor sanitation
A Grade “A” Customary Court in Somolu, Lagos, on Wednesday sentenced 18 tenants to two months’ imprisonment for poor sanitation.
The Court President, Modupe Bajulaiye, held that the tenants, of No. 103 Ilaje Road, Bariga, were keeping a dirty environment.
Bajulaiye, however, gave an option of N10,500 fine each to three of the tenants who had pleaded not guilty to the two-count charge preferred against them.
She gave an option of N2,500 each to three tenants who pleaded guilty to only one of the counts while 12 others who pleaded guilty to the two-count charges got an option of N1, 500 fine each.
Bajulaiye observed that the tenants had engaged in indiscriminate dumping of refuse by failing to provide waste bins in their premises.
The Bariga Local Council Development Area had accused them of promoting a dirty environment and failure to repair their dilapidated roofs, cracked walls and defective septic tanks.
The councils’ Sanitation Officer, Iyabo Okeowo said the offence was contrary to sections 6, 7 and 8 of the Lagos State Environmental Health Law.
The Court President, Modupe Bajulaiye, held that the tenants, of No. 103 Ilaje Road, Bariga, were keeping a dirty environment.
Bajulaiye, however, gave an option of N10,500 fine each to three of the tenants who had pleaded not guilty to the two-count charge preferred against them.
She gave an option of N2,500 each to three tenants who pleaded guilty to only one of the counts while 12 others who pleaded guilty to the two-count charges got an option of N1, 500 fine each.
Bajulaiye observed that the tenants had engaged in indiscriminate dumping of refuse by failing to provide waste bins in their premises.
The Bariga Local Council Development Area had accused them of promoting a dirty environment and failure to repair their dilapidated roofs, cracked walls and defective septic tanks.
The councils’ Sanitation Officer, Iyabo Okeowo said the offence was contrary to sections 6, 7 and 8 of the Lagos State Environmental Health Law.
Salesman in court over palm oil theft
The police in Lagos on Thursday arraigned a salesman, Abayomi Lawal (20), over alleged theft of palm oil and groundnut oil.
Lawal was charged before a Surulere Chief Magistrate’s Court for allegedly breaking into the house of a woman and stealing palm oil and groundnut oil, worth N147,000.
The accused , however, pleaded not guilty to the charge before Magistrate Mukaila Fadeyi.
The Police Prosecutor, Sgt. Idowu Onime, had submitted that the accused stole the oil from Mrs Nimota Lawal on Aug. 15 at No. 49, Hassan St., Aguda, Surulere.
Onime said the alleged offences contravened Sections 413 and 390 (9) of the Criminal Code of Lagos State.
The court adjourned the case till Dec. 12 for further hearing.
Lawal was charged before a Surulere Chief Magistrate’s Court for allegedly breaking into the house of a woman and stealing palm oil and groundnut oil, worth N147,000.
The accused , however, pleaded not guilty to the charge before Magistrate Mukaila Fadeyi.
The Police Prosecutor, Sgt. Idowu Onime, had submitted that the accused stole the oil from Mrs Nimota Lawal on Aug. 15 at No. 49, Hassan St., Aguda, Surulere.
Onime said the alleged offences contravened Sections 413 and 390 (9) of the Criminal Code of Lagos State.
The court adjourned the case till Dec. 12 for further hearing.
Bombings: Screening commences at Lagos airport
Security operatives on Wednesday commenced the screening of vehicles entering the cargo shed of the Murtala Muhammed Airport in Lagos.
A notice pasted on boards around the cargo area said that the screening was in view of the recent bombings and security threat in the country.
The notice, signed by Group Capt. Bello Garba, Military Airport Commandant on behalf of the Airport Security Committee, said cars would no longer be allowed access through the gate to the terminal.
Unauthorised vehicles and personnel were restricted to certain areas while removal of all abandoned vehicles parked around the cargo terminal had commenced.
A patrol vehicle fitted with radio communication gadgets was also deployed to the area for proper monitoring of personnel and cargo.
A security source, who pleaded anonymity, told NAN that the new measure was to improve safety of persons and aircraft at the airport.
The source further said the tight security arrangement at the cargo shed was to stop the influx of undesirable elements in to the tarmac.
A notice pasted on boards around the cargo area said that the screening was in view of the recent bombings and security threat in the country.
The notice, signed by Group Capt. Bello Garba, Military Airport Commandant on behalf of the Airport Security Committee, said cars would no longer be allowed access through the gate to the terminal.
Unauthorised vehicles and personnel were restricted to certain areas while removal of all abandoned vehicles parked around the cargo terminal had commenced.
A patrol vehicle fitted with radio communication gadgets was also deployed to the area for proper monitoring of personnel and cargo.
A security source, who pleaded anonymity, told NAN that the new measure was to improve safety of persons and aircraft at the airport.
The source further said the tight security arrangement at the cargo shed was to stop the influx of undesirable elements in to the tarmac.
Cart pusher charged with armed robbery
The police in Lagos on Wednesday, charged a cart pusher, Musibau Owoyemi, 25, with armed robbery.
Owoyemi was charged before an Igbosere Magistrate’s Court which remanded him in the Ikoyi Prisons, pending the advice of the state’s Director of Public Prosecutions .
Magistrate J.A. Adegun said he needed the DPP’s advice on the two-count charge of conspiracy and armed robbery.
The Prosecutor, Sgt. Stephen Molo, said the accused conspired with others still at large and snatched a motorcycle while armed with dangerous weapons on March 15 at the Apostolic Grammar School Road, Ketu.
He said the motorcycle had registration number QU 266 FST.
The Prosecutor added that the cart pusher was arrested while trying to dispose of the motorcycle.
He said the alleged offences contravened sections 516 and 2 (a) of the Criminal Code of Lagos State as well as the Firearms (Special Provisions) Act.
Owoyemi was charged before an Igbosere Magistrate’s Court which remanded him in the Ikoyi Prisons, pending the advice of the state’s Director of Public Prosecutions .
Magistrate J.A. Adegun said he needed the DPP’s advice on the two-count charge of conspiracy and armed robbery.
The Prosecutor, Sgt. Stephen Molo, said the accused conspired with others still at large and snatched a motorcycle while armed with dangerous weapons on March 15 at the Apostolic Grammar School Road, Ketu.
He said the motorcycle had registration number QU 266 FST.
The Prosecutor added that the cart pusher was arrested while trying to dispose of the motorcycle.
He said the alleged offences contravened sections 516 and 2 (a) of the Criminal Code of Lagos State as well as the Firearms (Special Provisions) Act.
Ibru urges court to transfer her to LUTH
Convicted former Chief Executive Officer of Oceanic Bank Plc, Cecilia Ibru, has urged a Federal High Court in Lagos to order her transfer from a private hospital on the Victoria Island to the Lagos University Teaching Hospital .
Ibru, who is currently serving a six-month jail term, said that the transfer would give her access to further treatment.
Ibru’s counsel, Margaret Orakwusi, had on Oct. 29 filed an application, asking the court to order her transfer from Reddington Hospital to LUTH.
The application, however, could not be heard on Wednesday because of the absence of the counsel to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Konyinsola Ajayi .
Ibru, who claimed to be suffering from a chronic cardiac problem, was sentenced to six months imprisonment by Justice Dan Abutu on Oct. 8 without an option of fine.
She had pleaded guilty to the offence of granting 20 million dollars and N2 billion credit facilities above the Central Bank-approved limit.
Ibru also entered into a plea bargaining with the EFCC and forfeited assets worth N191billion, comprising 49 properties in Nigeria, the U.S. and Dubai to the Federal Government.
She equally forfeited shares in more than 100 firms.
The case was adjourned for Nov. 8 for hearing.
Ibru, who is currently serving a six-month jail term, said that the transfer would give her access to further treatment.
Ibru’s counsel, Margaret Orakwusi, had on Oct. 29 filed an application, asking the court to order her transfer from Reddington Hospital to LUTH.
The application, however, could not be heard on Wednesday because of the absence of the counsel to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Konyinsola Ajayi .
Ibru, who claimed to be suffering from a chronic cardiac problem, was sentenced to six months imprisonment by Justice Dan Abutu on Oct. 8 without an option of fine.
She had pleaded guilty to the offence of granting 20 million dollars and N2 billion credit facilities above the Central Bank-approved limit.
Ibru also entered into a plea bargaining with the EFCC and forfeited assets worth N191billion, comprising 49 properties in Nigeria, the U.S. and Dubai to the Federal Government.
She equally forfeited shares in more than 100 firms.
The case was adjourned for Nov. 8 for hearing.
Court imposes N50, 000 bail on 3 over affray
Three tenants, who were charged with affray, were each granted N50,000 bail by the Somolu Magistrate’s Court, Lagos.
Funke Odetunde (60), Tobi Omodehin (20) and Seun Ajala (29) all occupants of 39, Bawahala St., Pedro, Somolu, were charged with one-count charge of physical combat.
The accused, however, pleaded not guilty.
The prosecution told the court that Funke, the landlord’s daughter and Tobi, also a grandson, engaged a tenant, Seun, in a fight for making a noise with her shoes while entering the house.
Sgt. Adegoke Akinlebi said the accused had on Oct. 31 at about 4 p.m. engaged in a fight causing a breach of the peace.
He said the offence contravened Section 83 of the Criminal Code, laws of Lagos State 2000.
Magistrate, B. O. Osunsanmi, adjourned the case till Nov. 24 for mention.
Funke Odetunde (60), Tobi Omodehin (20) and Seun Ajala (29) all occupants of 39, Bawahala St., Pedro, Somolu, were charged with one-count charge of physical combat.
The accused, however, pleaded not guilty.
The prosecution told the court that Funke, the landlord’s daughter and Tobi, also a grandson, engaged a tenant, Seun, in a fight for making a noise with her shoes while entering the house.
Sgt. Adegoke Akinlebi said the accused had on Oct. 31 at about 4 p.m. engaged in a fight causing a breach of the peace.
He said the offence contravened Section 83 of the Criminal Code, laws of Lagos State 2000.
Magistrate, B. O. Osunsanmi, adjourned the case till Nov. 24 for mention.
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
2 men jailed for stealing laptop
An Abuja Magistrate's Court on Wednesday sentenced Francis Omonigho, 35, and Musa Idris, 22, to jail for stealing a laptop.
Omonigho and Idris, who both hail from Dagba Village in Garki area of Abuja, are to spend one year and six months behind bars for the theft.
Presiding Magistrate Hafisat Soso, however, gave Omonigho an option to pay N2,000 as fine and Idris N1,000.
Both men had pleaded guilty to the charges, but begged the court for leniency.
The prosecutor, Police Constable Yilkudi Dungji, had told the court that on Oct. 15, Dr Stephen Osiobe of Plot 113, Phase 1, Lugbe, FCT, reported Omonigho and Idris to the police that they forcefully broke into his house and made away with his laptop.
The convicts stole the HP-530 laptop valued at N110,000 and were caught at the scene while trying to escape, he said.
Dungji said during investigation, Omonigho and Idris admitted that they committed the crime, punishable under Sections 79, 340 and 288 of the Penal Code Law.
Omonigho and Idris, who both hail from Dagba Village in Garki area of Abuja, are to spend one year and six months behind bars for the theft.
Presiding Magistrate Hafisat Soso, however, gave Omonigho an option to pay N2,000 as fine and Idris N1,000.
Both men had pleaded guilty to the charges, but begged the court for leniency.
The prosecutor, Police Constable Yilkudi Dungji, had told the court that on Oct. 15, Dr Stephen Osiobe of Plot 113, Phase 1, Lugbe, FCT, reported Omonigho and Idris to the police that they forcefully broke into his house and made away with his laptop.
The convicts stole the HP-530 laptop valued at N110,000 and were caught at the scene while trying to escape, he said.
Dungji said during investigation, Omonigho and Idris admitted that they committed the crime, punishable under Sections 79, 340 and 288 of the Penal Code Law.
Professiionalism: Police to downsize mobile force .
The Nigeria Police has begun the overhauling and downsizing of its mobile force in a bid to professionalise it, Hafiz Ringim, the Inspector General of Police, has said.
Ringim announced this on Wednesday at his maiden conference with senior police officers.
He said he had directed the immediate disbandment of the multiple crime squads in the country due to their inefficiency.
Ringim also said the Federal Highway and Border Patrol Teams as well as Surveillance, Intelligence and Anti-robbery Units would soon be re-structured for proactive policing.
He expressed regret that the Police Mobile Force had compromised its traditional role of serving as the operational ``punching arm`` in dealing with tasking and riotous situations.
Ringim said when he assumed duty, the relatively subdued restiveness in the Niger Delta, Boko Haram’s renewed rampage and killings in Plateau State were some of the problem that needed urgent attention.
He said kidnapping frenzy in the South East and the structural flaws in the police were some of the issues that also called for urgent attention.
Ringim charged the senior officers to review their supervisory mechanisms to ensure that the police become an embodiment of respect for human dignity and professionalism in line with best practices.
Ringim said proactive measures were more pertinent now, especially as preparations for the 2011 elections were unfolding.
Ringim stressed the need to build institutional capacity anchored on collective commitment of officers and men of the force, assuring them that welfare and motivation would be given priority.
He however, warned that the police would compulsorily retire any personnel who failed to pass prescribed promotion examination after two attempts.
The 12 newly elevated Commissioners of Police were decorated with their new ranks of Assistant Inspectors-General of Police during the conference.
Ringim announced this on Wednesday at his maiden conference with senior police officers.
He said he had directed the immediate disbandment of the multiple crime squads in the country due to their inefficiency.
Ringim also said the Federal Highway and Border Patrol Teams as well as Surveillance, Intelligence and Anti-robbery Units would soon be re-structured for proactive policing.
He expressed regret that the Police Mobile Force had compromised its traditional role of serving as the operational ``punching arm`` in dealing with tasking and riotous situations.
Ringim said when he assumed duty, the relatively subdued restiveness in the Niger Delta, Boko Haram’s renewed rampage and killings in Plateau State were some of the problem that needed urgent attention.
He said kidnapping frenzy in the South East and the structural flaws in the police were some of the issues that also called for urgent attention.
Ringim charged the senior officers to review their supervisory mechanisms to ensure that the police become an embodiment of respect for human dignity and professionalism in line with best practices.
Ringim said proactive measures were more pertinent now, especially as preparations for the 2011 elections were unfolding.
Ringim stressed the need to build institutional capacity anchored on collective commitment of officers and men of the force, assuring them that welfare and motivation would be given priority.
He however, warned that the police would compulsorily retire any personnel who failed to pass prescribed promotion examination after two attempts.
The 12 newly elevated Commissioners of Police were decorated with their new ranks of Assistant Inspectors-General of Police during the conference.
Prostitute allegedly steals N720,000 from patron
The police in Lagos on Wednesday arraigned-- for the second time-- a suspected prostitute, Oluayo Olatunji, for allegedly stealing N720, 000 from a man who slept with her.
Olatunji (40) is facing a one-count charge before a Surulere Magistrate’s Court.
She, however, pleaded not guilty before Magistrate Mukaila Fadeyi.
The prosecutor, Sgt. Idowu Onime, told the court that Olatunji committed the alleged theft on March 30 in a hotel at No. 19, Adebola St., off Adeniran Ogunsanya St., Surulere.
Onime said the money belonged to a businessman, Yomi Soyemi, who took the accused to the hotel.
He said Olatunji, who was initially arraigned on Oct.13, could not meet her bail condition of N500, 000 and two sureties.
The prosecutor said she had since been in koyi Prisons.
Onime said the alleged offence contravened section 390 (9) of the Criminal Code of Lagos State, and punishable with seven years’ imprisonment.
The court still granted Olatunji bail in the sum of N500, 000 with two sureties in like sum.
Further hearing in the case will come up on Nov. 15.
Olatunji (40) is facing a one-count charge before a Surulere Magistrate’s Court.
She, however, pleaded not guilty before Magistrate Mukaila Fadeyi.
The prosecutor, Sgt. Idowu Onime, told the court that Olatunji committed the alleged theft on March 30 in a hotel at No. 19, Adebola St., off Adeniran Ogunsanya St., Surulere.
Onime said the money belonged to a businessman, Yomi Soyemi, who took the accused to the hotel.
He said Olatunji, who was initially arraigned on Oct.13, could not meet her bail condition of N500, 000 and two sureties.
The prosecutor said she had since been in koyi Prisons.
Onime said the alleged offence contravened section 390 (9) of the Criminal Code of Lagos State, and punishable with seven years’ imprisonment.
The court still granted Olatunji bail in the sum of N500, 000 with two sureties in like sum.
Further hearing in the case will come up on Nov. 15.
Judge grants EFCC's request to drop charges against late LG chairman.
An Abuja High Court has granted a request by the EFCC to drop all criminal charges against Clement Fasawe, a former Chairman of the Ile-Oluji/Oke-Igbo Local Government Area of Ondo State.
Justice Salisu Garba dropped the three-count charge of conspiracy, corruption and stealing on Wednesday following a request by Counsel to the EFCC, Steve Ovialeh, that consequent upon the death of the accused, the charges should be dropped.
Garba responded positively by striking out the suit.
Counsel to Fasawe, Ajiwale Yusuf, had earlier told the court that his client died on Aug. 1 following injuries he sustained in an auto crash on the Lagos–Ore Road.
He commended the prosecution counsel for agreeing to terminate the case.
Fasawe was charged for allegedly stealing more than N2.3 billion belonging to the council and using it to acquire choice property in Ondo and Abuja.
Justice Salisu Garba dropped the three-count charge of conspiracy, corruption and stealing on Wednesday following a request by Counsel to the EFCC, Steve Ovialeh, that consequent upon the death of the accused, the charges should be dropped.
Garba responded positively by striking out the suit.
Counsel to Fasawe, Ajiwale Yusuf, had earlier told the court that his client died on Aug. 1 following injuries he sustained in an auto crash on the Lagos–Ore Road.
He commended the prosecution counsel for agreeing to terminate the case.
Fasawe was charged for allegedly stealing more than N2.3 billion belonging to the council and using it to acquire choice property in Ondo and Abuja.
Two siblings docked for assaulting 86-year-old woman.
For allegedly assaulting an 86-year-old woman, two siblings, Lanre Gbadamosi, 21, and his sister, Joke Gbadamosi, 27, have been dragged to court.
The duo is facing a three-count charge of conspiracy and assault before Folashade Kayode of the Ebute Meta Magistrate’s Court, Lagos.
The Prosecutor, Insp. Lucky Ojogu, told the court that the accused assaulted one Kuburat Agbogunleri, 86, by slapping and pushing her to the ground.
Ojogu said the offence, which was committed on Nov. 1 at No 19 Adegboyega Str., Mushin, contravened Sections 355, 356 and 516 of the Criminal Code, Laws of Lagos State.
The duo, however, pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Magistrate granted them bail in the sum of N100,000 with two sureties in like sum.
She adjourned the case till Dec. 15 for further hearing.
The duo is facing a three-count charge of conspiracy and assault before Folashade Kayode of the Ebute Meta Magistrate’s Court, Lagos.
The Prosecutor, Insp. Lucky Ojogu, told the court that the accused assaulted one Kuburat Agbogunleri, 86, by slapping and pushing her to the ground.
Ojogu said the offence, which was committed on Nov. 1 at No 19 Adegboyega Str., Mushin, contravened Sections 355, 356 and 516 of the Criminal Code, Laws of Lagos State.
The duo, however, pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Magistrate granted them bail in the sum of N100,000 with two sureties in like sum.
She adjourned the case till Dec. 15 for further hearing.
20 year-old in court for raping minor.
A 20-year-old unemployed, Emmanuel Tochukwu was on Wednesday arraigned before a Surulere Chief Magistrate’s Court in Lagos for allegedly raping a 14-year-old girl.
The prosecutor, Pc. Samuel Ishola told the court that the accused, with others at large, gang- raped the minor on Oct. 10,at the Salvation Army School Compound, Surulere, Lagos.
He said when the accused was arrested, he owned up to having had unlawfully carnal knowledge of the girl but later changed his plea.
According to him, the offence contravenes section 358, Criminal Code, Laws of Lagos state.
The accused,however, pleaded not guilty to the offence.
Magistrate, A. Tobi, granted the accused N20,000 bail with two sureties in like sum and adjourned the case till Nov. 8 for further hearing.
The prosecutor, Pc. Samuel Ishola told the court that the accused, with others at large, gang- raped the minor on Oct. 10,at the Salvation Army School Compound, Surulere, Lagos.
He said when the accused was arrested, he owned up to having had unlawfully carnal knowledge of the girl but later changed his plea.
According to him, the offence contravenes section 358, Criminal Code, Laws of Lagos state.
The accused,however, pleaded not guilty to the offence.
Magistrate, A. Tobi, granted the accused N20,000 bail with two sureties in like sum and adjourned the case till Nov. 8 for further hearing.
Unemployed charged over N195,000 theft
The Police on Wednesday in Lagos arraigned an unemployed middle- age man before the Apapa Chief Magistrate’s Court for stealing motor spare parts worth N195,500.
The prosecutor, Sgt. Kalu Umeh told the court that Chinedu Okoye stole a jack, two tyres, two motor batteries and siphoned many litres of diesel from a truck belonging to one Bernard Chukwuma.
Umeh told the court that the offence was committed sometimes in Aug. 2010, at Happy Home Road, Kuje Amuwo, Lagos.
He said the accused contravened Section 390 (9) of the Criminal Code, Cap. C17, Vol. 2, Laws of Lagos State 2003.
The accused, however, pleaded not guilty.
Chief Magistrate, A.K. Shonubi, granted the accused N50, 000bail, with one surety in like sum and adjourned the case till Nov. 10.
The prosecutor, Sgt. Kalu Umeh told the court that Chinedu Okoye stole a jack, two tyres, two motor batteries and siphoned many litres of diesel from a truck belonging to one Bernard Chukwuma.
Umeh told the court that the offence was committed sometimes in Aug. 2010, at Happy Home Road, Kuje Amuwo, Lagos.
He said the accused contravened Section 390 (9) of the Criminal Code, Cap. C17, Vol. 2, Laws of Lagos State 2003.
The accused, however, pleaded not guilty.
Chief Magistrate, A.K. Shonubi, granted the accused N50, 000bail, with one surety in like sum and adjourned the case till Nov. 10.
24-yea-old man arraigned for alleged rape
A 24-year-old man, Elijaj Agbonjimi, was on Wednesday charged before an Apapa Chief Magistrate’s Court in Lagos for allegedly raping a 20-year-old woman.
The accused, who is facing a one-count charge of having unlawful carnal knowledge of the woman, however, pleaded not guilty.
But the prosecutor, Sgt. Kalu Umeh told the court that the accused committed the offence as charged.
According to him, the accused lured the victim-- names withheld-- into his room and raped her sometimes in March, at Amukoko area of Apapa, Lagos.
He said the accused had contravened Section 214 (1) of the Criminal Code, Laws of Lagos State 2003.
Chief Magistrate, A. K. Shonubi, granted the accused bail in the sum of N20, 000 with one surety in like sum.
She said the surety should also show evidence of tax clearance and address verified by the prosecutor.
Shonubi adjourned further hearing till Nov. 15.
The accused, who is facing a one-count charge of having unlawful carnal knowledge of the woman, however, pleaded not guilty.
But the prosecutor, Sgt. Kalu Umeh told the court that the accused committed the offence as charged.
According to him, the accused lured the victim-- names withheld-- into his room and raped her sometimes in March, at Amukoko area of Apapa, Lagos.
He said the accused had contravened Section 214 (1) of the Criminal Code, Laws of Lagos State 2003.
Chief Magistrate, A. K. Shonubi, granted the accused bail in the sum of N20, 000 with one surety in like sum.
She said the surety should also show evidence of tax clearance and address verified by the prosecutor.
Shonubi adjourned further hearing till Nov. 15.
54-year-old man in court for altering name on PHCN bill
A man who allegedly altered the name on a Power Holding Company of Nigeria electricity bill, was on Wednesday arraigned at an Apapa Chief Magistrate’s Court.
Solomon Onyeji, 54, was said to have erazed the name of another electricity consumer on an original electricity bill and replaced it with his own.
Onyeji was also charged with conducting himself in a manner likely to cause the breach of the peace.
The accused, who is standing trial on a two-count charge of forging and breach of peace, before Chief Magistrate Amos Adeyemi, however, pleaded not guilty to the charges.
The prosecutor, Friday Inedu, said the accused was caught with the forged bill when he tried to present it as genuine.
Inedu said the accused committed the offence on Aug. 14 at No. 31, Ibitoye St., Off Ojo Road, Ajegunle in Lagos.
He said the offence contravened Sections 249 (d) and 467 (d) of the Criminal Code of Lagos State 2003.
The court granted the accused bail in the sum of N20,000 with one surety in like sum.
The case was adjourned till Nov. 30, for further hearing.
Solomon Onyeji, 54, was said to have erazed the name of another electricity consumer on an original electricity bill and replaced it with his own.
Onyeji was also charged with conducting himself in a manner likely to cause the breach of the peace.
The accused, who is standing trial on a two-count charge of forging and breach of peace, before Chief Magistrate Amos Adeyemi, however, pleaded not guilty to the charges.
The prosecutor, Friday Inedu, said the accused was caught with the forged bill when he tried to present it as genuine.
Inedu said the accused committed the offence on Aug. 14 at No. 31, Ibitoye St., Off Ojo Road, Ajegunle in Lagos.
He said the offence contravened Sections 249 (d) and 467 (d) of the Criminal Code of Lagos State 2003.
The court granted the accused bail in the sum of N20,000 with one surety in like sum.
The case was adjourned till Nov. 30, for further hearing.
Lagos Chief Judge wants vibrant magistracy
The Chief Judge of Lagos State, Justice Inumidun Akande has charged magistrates to improve their performances in order to fast track the dispensation of justice in the state judicial system.
Akande gave the charge on Wednesday while declaring open the first batch of the 2010 Magistrates Retreat in Lagos.
The retreat was organised by the Lagos State Judiciary to enhance and equip the on-the-job performances of its magistrates.
Akande said The Magistracy has remained vital in the dispensation of justice, serving in most cases, as court of first instance in criminal, civil and related matters”.
The Chief Judge stressed the need for an effective and vibrant Magistracy which she described as the basis for the retreat.
Akande said the retreat would create a convivial forum for participants to share their personal experiences in the Lower Bench and to interact on personal issues of mutual interest.
She noted that it was designed to provide a veritable platform for the exchange of ideas and to reflect on past challenges and achievements.
It is also aimed at projecting into the future with a view to moving the Magistracy and indeed, the Lagos State Judiciary forward, Akande added.
Akande gave the charge on Wednesday while declaring open the first batch of the 2010 Magistrates Retreat in Lagos.
The retreat was organised by the Lagos State Judiciary to enhance and equip the on-the-job performances of its magistrates.
Akande said The Magistracy has remained vital in the dispensation of justice, serving in most cases, as court of first instance in criminal, civil and related matters”.
The Chief Judge stressed the need for an effective and vibrant Magistracy which she described as the basis for the retreat.
Akande said the retreat would create a convivial forum for participants to share their personal experiences in the Lower Bench and to interact on personal issues of mutual interest.
She noted that it was designed to provide a veritable platform for the exchange of ideas and to reflect on past challenges and achievements.
It is also aimed at projecting into the future with a view to moving the Magistracy and indeed, the Lagos State Judiciary forward, Akande added.
NDLEA destroys 395 hectares of cannabis
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency has destroyed 395.3 hectares of cannabis plantations in the past nine months.
The Agency signed by its Head of Public Affairs, Mitchell Ofoyeju, said the cannabis farms were traced and destroyed between January and September 2010.
Its Chairman, Ahmadu Giade, directed the Agency’s commanding officers to check the activties of drug barons across the country.
Giade had placed states and special Area Commands on alert to eradicate illicit drug abuse.
According to the Chairman, the directive is imperative as it is the Agency’s statutory responsibility to take necessary measures at eradicating cannabis and other illicit drugs in the country.
The statement also quoted the NDLEA chief as expressing satisfaction with the destruction of cannabis plantations so far identified.
The Agency signed by its Head of Public Affairs, Mitchell Ofoyeju, said the cannabis farms were traced and destroyed between January and September 2010.
Its Chairman, Ahmadu Giade, directed the Agency’s commanding officers to check the activties of drug barons across the country.
Giade had placed states and special Area Commands on alert to eradicate illicit drug abuse.
According to the Chairman, the directive is imperative as it is the Agency’s statutory responsibility to take necessary measures at eradicating cannabis and other illicit drugs in the country.
The statement also quoted the NDLEA chief as expressing satisfaction with the destruction of cannabis plantations so far identified.
Court jails salesman over theft of electrical, plumbing materials.
The Ebute Meta Magistrates’ Court in Lagos on Wednesday sentenced a 54-year-old salesman, James Nwaorie, to one- and-a half years’ imprisonment for stealing plumbing and electrical materials worth N600,000.
Magistrate Folashade Kayode gave Nwaorie no option of fine after finding him guilty of the two-count charge of conspiracy and stealing preferred against him by the police.
Kayode sentenced the accused to six months for conspiracy and 12 months with hard labour for stealing.
She directed that the stolen materials tendered before the court as exhibits be released to Nwaorie’s boss, Mr Christopher Nwaokoye, who owned them.
Nwaorie was arraigned along with one Anthony Eweni (35) on Oct. 18.
While Nwaorie pleaded guilty to the charge, Eweni pleaded not guilty.
Eweni’s trial was adjourned till Jan. 26, 2011.
Police Prosecutor, Insp. Paul Enedu, had submitted that Nwaorie stole the materials from Nwaokoye in June at No. 60, Ajayi Road, Ijaye-Ogba.
Enedu said the salesman sold the stolen property to Eweni for N270,000.
He said Eweni knew that the items were stolen.
Magistrate Folashade Kayode gave Nwaorie no option of fine after finding him guilty of the two-count charge of conspiracy and stealing preferred against him by the police.
Kayode sentenced the accused to six months for conspiracy and 12 months with hard labour for stealing.
She directed that the stolen materials tendered before the court as exhibits be released to Nwaorie’s boss, Mr Christopher Nwaokoye, who owned them.
Nwaorie was arraigned along with one Anthony Eweni (35) on Oct. 18.
While Nwaorie pleaded guilty to the charge, Eweni pleaded not guilty.
Eweni’s trial was adjourned till Jan. 26, 2011.
Police Prosecutor, Insp. Paul Enedu, had submitted that Nwaorie stole the materials from Nwaokoye in June at No. 60, Ajayi Road, Ijaye-Ogba.
Enedu said the salesman sold the stolen property to Eweni for N270,000.
He said Eweni knew that the items were stolen.
3 babies born at Lagos flood relief camp
Three new babies have been born at the Lagos State Relief Camp, Agbowa, since the facility was established three weeks ago, according to a government official.
General Manager, Lagos State Emergency Management Agency, Femi Osanyintolu said the babies` safe delivery was a testimony to God's kindness and the efficient service delivery at the camp.
Safe arrival of babies, in whatever circumstance, is a thing of joy, that is why we assisted the families to celebrate the arrival of the babies, Osanyintolu says
The camp has a population of 1,006, consisting of 484 adults –including 48 pregnant women -- and 522 children.
The three mothers described their safe deliveries as miraculous, considering the trauma they went through during the recent floods in their respective areas.
Meanwhile, the camp commandant, Wewe Ganiyu, has appealed to the residents to make the best use of the facilities provided.
The relief camp was opened on Oct. 11 by the Lagos State Government for the victims of eight communities affected by the floods.
The victims were from Ajegunle , Kiokio , Agiliti ,Odo –Ogun ,Ito, Iwolo ,Maidan ,Owode Elede , Owode Onirin and other areas in Ikosi -Isheri and Agboyi Ketu Local Council Development Areas.
General Manager, Lagos State Emergency Management Agency, Femi Osanyintolu said the babies` safe delivery was a testimony to God's kindness and the efficient service delivery at the camp.
Safe arrival of babies, in whatever circumstance, is a thing of joy, that is why we assisted the families to celebrate the arrival of the babies, Osanyintolu says
The camp has a population of 1,006, consisting of 484 adults –including 48 pregnant women -- and 522 children.
The three mothers described their safe deliveries as miraculous, considering the trauma they went through during the recent floods in their respective areas.
Meanwhile, the camp commandant, Wewe Ganiyu, has appealed to the residents to make the best use of the facilities provided.
The relief camp was opened on Oct. 11 by the Lagos State Government for the victims of eight communities affected by the floods.
The victims were from Ajegunle , Kiokio , Agiliti ,Odo –Ogun ,Ito, Iwolo ,Maidan ,Owode Elede , Owode Onirin and other areas in Ikosi -Isheri and Agboyi Ketu Local Council Development Areas.
Undergraduate in court for slapping 62-year-old
A 26-year-old undergraduate, Olakitan Ogbara, on Wednesday appeared before an Ebute Meta Magistrate’s Court in Lagos for allegedly threatening to kill a 62-year-old woman.
Ogbara, a student of the Lagos State University, was arraigned on a three-count charge of assault, threat to life and breach of the peace.
The prosecutor, Cpl. Ishiaku Babaji, told the court that the undergraduate slapped his relative, Mosunmola Gbajumo, over a family issue in December, 2009 at No. 1, Babani St., Ebute Meta.
Babaji submitted that Ogbara also threatened to send assassins to the woman.
He said the accused conducted himself in a manner likely to cause a breach of the peace.
The accused, however, pleaded not guilty and was granted bail in the sum of N50,000 with two sureties in like sum.
The court adjourned the case till Dec. 9 for further hearing.
Ogbara, a student of the Lagos State University, was arraigned on a three-count charge of assault, threat to life and breach of the peace.
The prosecutor, Cpl. Ishiaku Babaji, told the court that the undergraduate slapped his relative, Mosunmola Gbajumo, over a family issue in December, 2009 at No. 1, Babani St., Ebute Meta.
Babaji submitted that Ogbara also threatened to send assassins to the woman.
He said the accused conducted himself in a manner likely to cause a breach of the peace.
The accused, however, pleaded not guilty and was granted bail in the sum of N50,000 with two sureties in like sum.
The court adjourned the case till Dec. 9 for further hearing.
Businessman in court over N1m fraud
A businessman, Abiodun Afolabi, was on Tuesday arraigned at a Yaba Chief Magistrate’s Court for allegedly obtaining N1.1 million under pretext.
Afolabi, 37, is facing a four-count charge of conspiracy, fraud, obtaining money under false pretence and stealing, before Chief Magistrate Akintunde Isaac.
The prosecutor, Okorie Okoronkwo, said the accused with others at large on Sept. 15 at Ikeja collected the money from one Kikelomo Adejonwo with the pretext of supplying her some goods.
He said the accused also issued a First Bank cheque No 73574326 for the sum of N500,000 to the complainant which was dishonoured for lack of sufficient fund.
Okoronkwo said the offence contravened Sections 390(9), 416, 419, 516, of the Criminal Code, Laws of Lagos State, 2003, and Dishonored Cheque Act, Laws of the Federation.
The accused pleaded not guilty to the charge.
Isaac granted the accused bail in the sum of N200,000 with two sureties in like sum.
He adjourned the case till Nov. 24, for further hearing.
Afolabi, 37, is facing a four-count charge of conspiracy, fraud, obtaining money under false pretence and stealing, before Chief Magistrate Akintunde Isaac.
The prosecutor, Okorie Okoronkwo, said the accused with others at large on Sept. 15 at Ikeja collected the money from one Kikelomo Adejonwo with the pretext of supplying her some goods.
He said the accused also issued a First Bank cheque No 73574326 for the sum of N500,000 to the complainant which was dishonoured for lack of sufficient fund.
Okoronkwo said the offence contravened Sections 390(9), 416, 419, 516, of the Criminal Code, Laws of Lagos State, 2003, and Dishonored Cheque Act, Laws of the Federation.
The accused pleaded not guilty to the charge.
Isaac granted the accused bail in the sum of N200,000 with two sureties in like sum.
He adjourned the case till Nov. 24, for further hearing.
Man in court for raping 12-yr-old girl
A 23-year-old man was on Tuesday charged before an Apapa Chief Magistrate’s Court for allegedly raping a 12-year-old girl.
Tony Nwachukwu is facing a two-count charge of indecent treatment and unlawful carnal knowledge of the minor.
The police prosecutor, Cpl. John Iberedem, told the court that the accused lured the victim to an isolated place and raped her.
Iberedem said the offence, which was committed on Oct. 19 at Oluti area of Lagos, contravened Sections 222 and 218 of the Criminal Code, Laws of Lagos State.
The accused, however, pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Chief Magistrate, O. O. Oshin, granted the accused N100,000 bail with two sureties in like sum and adjourned the case till Nov. 24 for further hearing.
Tony Nwachukwu is facing a two-count charge of indecent treatment and unlawful carnal knowledge of the minor.
The police prosecutor, Cpl. John Iberedem, told the court that the accused lured the victim to an isolated place and raped her.
Iberedem said the offence, which was committed on Oct. 19 at Oluti area of Lagos, contravened Sections 222 and 218 of the Criminal Code, Laws of Lagos State.
The accused, however, pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Chief Magistrate, O. O. Oshin, granted the accused N100,000 bail with two sureties in like sum and adjourned the case till Nov. 24 for further hearing.
Court slams N100,000 bail on accused over N75, 000 theft
An Apapa Chief Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday in Lagos slammed a bail of N100,000 on an accused over an alleged theft of a handset and cash valued at N75,000.
Thirty-one-year-old Darlington Ufoma was alleged to have stolen N43, 000 cash and a Sony Erickson handset, valued at N32, 000 and property of one Francis Saibu.
Ufoma and an accomplice, still at large, are facing a three-count charge of felony, stealing and assault.
The accused, however, pleaded not guilty to the charge.
The police prosecutor, Cpl. John Iberedem, told the court that the accused committed the offence on Oct. 25 at about 2 a.m. on Kingsway Road, Apapa, Lagos.
He said Ufoma also attacked and injured Saibu while trying to steal his property.
The offence, according to him, is punishable under Sections 390 (9), 355 and 516 of Criminal Code, Laws of Lagos State 2003.
Counsel to the accused, Nnadi Uche, urged the court to grant him bail on liberal terms, saying the offence was bailable.
Chief Magistrate, O. O. Oshin, considered his plea and granted the accused bail in the sum of N100,000 with two sureties in like sum.
The case has been adjourned till Nov. 29 for further hearing.
Thirty-one-year-old Darlington Ufoma was alleged to have stolen N43, 000 cash and a Sony Erickson handset, valued at N32, 000 and property of one Francis Saibu.
Ufoma and an accomplice, still at large, are facing a three-count charge of felony, stealing and assault.
The accused, however, pleaded not guilty to the charge.
The police prosecutor, Cpl. John Iberedem, told the court that the accused committed the offence on Oct. 25 at about 2 a.m. on Kingsway Road, Apapa, Lagos.
He said Ufoma also attacked and injured Saibu while trying to steal his property.
The offence, according to him, is punishable under Sections 390 (9), 355 and 516 of Criminal Code, Laws of Lagos State 2003.
Counsel to the accused, Nnadi Uche, urged the court to grant him bail on liberal terms, saying the offence was bailable.
Chief Magistrate, O. O. Oshin, considered his plea and granted the accused bail in the sum of N100,000 with two sureties in like sum.
The case has been adjourned till Nov. 29 for further hearing.
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