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Human Rights Group Petitions APC Leadership, Calls for Immediate Arrest of Buraimoh, Olorunrinu

Published

4 years ago

June 3, 2021

Eric

The Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR) has called for the immediate arrest of the Executive Chairman of Amuwo Odofin Local Government, Engr. Valentine Buraimoh and Hon. Dipo Olorunrinu for the roles they played before and during the May 29, 2021 local government council primaries conducted by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in lagos State.

In a petition addressed to high profile APC leaders including President Muhammadu Buhari, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, Governor Mai Mala Buni, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and Alhaji Tunde Balogun, the CDHR accused the duo of possessing fire arms, disrupting the election primaries in different wards o the local government and causing general unrest and terrorising the peace of the local government with heavily armed thugs.

An armed thug

“The incumbent Council Chairman of Amuwo Odofin Local Government, Engineer Valentine Buraimoh personally led thugs to chase away voters and cart away ballot boxes to unknown destination while some people suffered various degrees of body injuries particularly in Ward K, see youtube link (https://youtu.be/9N30S51jBmc), where rounds of gunshots by thugs led by Engineer Valentine Buraimoh were fired at electorates and passerby and with bullets scattered on the ground. These thugs were also seen hanging around the Black Toyota Hilux pickup vehicle Engineer Valentine Buraimoh was riding in.

“Engineer Valentine Buraimoh is not from ward K, why then was he found at other wards on the day of election with thugs numbering up to 80 thereby violating the electoral guidelines of the All Progressives Congress (APC). Hon.Dipo Olorunrinu who claims to be from Ward C was also seen in some other wards during voting hours alongside hoodlums working with him thereby also violating the electoral guidelines since he is an aspirant and not an election observer,” CDHR noted.

In the petition, signed by the State Chairman, Committee For The Defence of Human Rights Comrade Kehinde Adeoye, the group called on the President and the security agencies to immediately arrest Engineer Valentine Buraimoh in order to mop up the arms from the community during the attack and prosecute the LGA chairman in a competent court of jurisdiction.

They also demanded to know the state of the investigation by the Nigerian Police in Lagos State on the arrest of Hon. Dipo Olorunrinu by the Commissioner of Police with respect to illegal possession of fire arms and ammunition in 2018.

Mr Adeoye said that the calls for the arrest of the two men are predicated on the fact that the arms they have placed in the hands of thugs and violent elements may likely be used to terrorise the lives of innocent Nigerians, especially residents of Amuwo Odofin Local Government Area, and therefore should be mopped up.

The body recalled that in recent times, violent crimes which involved the letting of blood have taken place, citing the killing of former President Goodluck Jonathan’s former aide and APC chieftain, Ahmad Gukak, killing of former Enugu High Court judge, Stanley Nnaji and former youth leader ward C, APC Amuwo Odofin, Mr. Soji Abraham.

“One wonders why those arms have not been mopped up, the culprits arrested and brought to book by a competent court of Law. This portrays danger as the pump actions and riffles in possession of the thugs remain within the community in Amuwo Odofin posing as a huge security risk to residents,” the letter read.

Read the letter in full:

OPEN LETTER TO PRESIDENT MUHAMMADU BUHARI; NATIONAL LEADER OF ALL PROGRESSIVES CONGRESS (APC) ASIWAJU BOLA AHMED TINUBU; ACTING NATIONAL CARETAKER COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN OF APC GOVERNOR MAI MALA BUNI; EXECUTIVE GOVERNOR OF LAGOS STATE MR BABAJIDE OLUSOLA SANWO OLU; LAGOS STATE APC CARETAKER COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN ALHAJI TUNDE BALOGUN.
INSECURITY IN NIGERIA: WHY HONOURABLE DIPO OLORUNRINU AND ENGINEER VALENTINE BURAIMOH ARE NOT FIT TO BE EXECUTIVE CHAIRMAN OF A LOCAL GOVERNMENT IN NIGERIA.

The attention of the above named personalities and the general public is hereby drawn to the negative consequences of the All Progressives Congress (APC) primaries of Saturday 29th May, 2021 across Lagos State especially in Amuwo Odofin Local Government Area.

Prior to the local government APC primaries, one of the APC chairmanship aspirants Honourable Dipo Olorunrinu Former Member Lagos State House of Assembly Amuwo Odofin Constituency 1, on the platform of People’s Democratic Party (PDP) 2015-2019, had and still has a case with the Nigerian Police, Lagos State where he was arrested for being in possession of illegal fire arms and ammunitions and the case is still on since 2018. See a link on the subject matter on 15th July 2018. (https://www.google.com/amp/s/punchng.com/lagos-lawmaker-arrested-for-unlawful-possession-of-guns/%3famp). In accordance with the APC, INEC and LASIEC guidelines, no aspirant of the party must have a pending criminal trial or pending criminal record in any court of law and if found to have, is not eligible to contest any election.(reference APC nomination form page 3 & 4, INEC, LASIEC guidelines). During the campaign towards the May 29 2021 APC primaries, there were several rounds of gunshots fired into the air at 512 Road Festac Town by members of Hon. Dipo Olorunrinu’s group while he was present at the location. See a link on the subject matter on May 21, 2021. (http://globaltimesinternational.com.ng/2021/05/21/ex-lawmaker-representing-amuwo-odofin-flags-off-campaign-amidst-gunshots/). At this level of insecurity and incessant killings in the country, we feel that the situation in Amuwo Odofin LGA and indeed across the country is very fragile now and can snowball into a huge security threat.

The incumbent Council Chairman of Amuwo Odofin Local Government, Engineer Valentine Buraimoh personlly led thugs to chase away voters and cart away ballot boxes to unknown destination while some people suffered various degrees of body injuries particularly in Ward K, see youtube link (https://youtu.be/9N30S51jBmc), where rounds of gunshots by thugs led by Engineer Valentine Buraimoh were fired at electorates and passerby and with bullets scattered on the ground. These thugs were also seen hanging around the Black Toyota Hilux pickup vehicle Engineer Valentine Buraimoh was riding in.

Engineer Valentine Buraimoh is not from ward K, why then was he found at other wards on the day of election with thugs numbering up to 80 thereby violating the electoral guidelines of the All Progressives Congress (APC). Hon.Dipo Olorunrinu who claims to be from Ward C was also seen in some other wards during voting hours alongside hoodlums working with him thereby also violating the electoral guidelines since he is an aspirant and not an election observer.

Our concern as members of civil society is to ensure that the lives of people are not endangered. There are pictorial and video evidences of the use of illegal possession of firearms at the primaries, see a link on the subject matter (https://youtu.be/9N30S51jBmc). On 31st May 2021, members of the civil society stormed the Lagos State House of Assembly to protest incessant killings of citizens, policemen and soldiers. A protest letter was delivered to the office of the speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly Hon. Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa to arrest the situation. In this regard, the recent brutal killings of Ex political adviser to former president Dr. Goodluck Jonathan Alhaji Ahmed Gulak (30th May, 2021), Ex Enugu high court judge Stanley Nnaji (31st May,2021), former youth leader ward C, APC Amuwo Odofin Mr. Soji Abraham (4th Feb, 2021) and many others.

One wonders why those arms have not been mopped up, the culprits arrested and brought to book by a competent court of Law. This portrays danger as the pump actions and riffles in possession of the thugs remain within the community in Amuwo Odofin posing as a huge security risk to residents. See Reference to the Executive Order signed by President Muhammadu Buhari that all illegal weapons be retrieved.

(https://thesourceng.com/buhari-signs-executive-order-banning-use-of-guns/).

There were also confirmed reports of violence and the use of arms at Surulere Local Government in Lagos State where two (2) lives were lost and also in Agege Local government where there was series of gunshots heard within the local government. There were several protests at the Lagos State Party Secretariat ACME at Ikeja on Sunday 30th May 2021 and on Monday 31st May, 2021.

We hereby call on President Muhammadu Buhari as the Chief Security Officer of the country, National Leader of the APC Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Governor of Lagos State Mr Babajide Sanwo Olu as the Chief Security Officer of the state; the National Security Adviser Major General Babagana Monguno (Rtd); Director General of the Department of State Security Service (DSS) Alhaji Yusuf Magaji Bichi; Inspector General of Police Alkali Baba Usman; Lagos State Commissioner of Police CP Hakeem Odumosu, Lagos State Director of State Security Service (SSS) to order a high-powered investigation into this security matter and life-threathening issue considering the spate of insecurity currently in Nigeria and to also mop up the firearms from the community used during the attack.

OUR DEMAND

1.)We call on President Muhammadu Buhari and all the security agencies to immediately arrest Engineer Valentine Buraimoh in order to mop up the arms from the community during the attack and prosecute him in a competent court of jurisdiction.

2.)We demand to know the state of the investigation by the Nigerian Police in Lagos State on the arrest of Hon.Dipo Olorunrinu by the Commissioner of Police with respect to illegal possession of fire arms and ammunition in 2018.

Signed:
Comrade Kehinde Adeoye
State Chairman,
Committee For The Defence of Human Rights

The group maintains that there was no election in the local government on the day as thugs loyal to the chairman were moving from ward to ward shooting and scaring innocent voters, and call on the APC leadership to as a matter of urgency call for the arrest of the chairman to begin the process of retrieving dangerous weapons in the hands of thugs and violent elements in the community.

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Akwa Ibom Gov Disburses N750m Business Grant to 15,000 Youths

Published

2 days ago

December 24, 2024

Eric

In a historic move to tackle unemployment and empower Akwa Ibom’s youth, Governor Umo Eno has disbursed ₦750 million in unemployment business grants to 15,000 youths across the state. This innovative programme provides ₦50,000 monthly grant to 5,000 beneficiaries, with plans to expand the initiative to a total of 60,000 youths drawn from all 31 Local Government Areas (LGAs) over the next 12 months.

Speaking during the official presentation of the grants at Banquet Hall of Government House, Uyo, Gov Eno described the initiative as a cornerstone of his administration’s commitment to youth empowerment and capacity building.

He urged beneficiaries to utilize the grants for productive ventures that will enhance their personal growth and contribute meaningfully to the state’s economy.

He reaffirmed his administration’s focus on creating opportunities that enable youths to thrive and unlock their full potential, adding that this programme is part of a broader charter to highlight and support the immense talent and resilience of Akwa Ibom youth.

Gov. Eno also announced plans for civil service recruitment through the State Youth Employment Portal.

He encouraged youths to register on the portal, which has been designed to simplify access to jobs and other employment-related initiatives, underscoring his administration’s commitment to transparency and inclusivity in public service recruitment.

Additionally, the governor highlighted several complementary programmes aimed at building youth capacity, including Ibom LED, the Dakkada Skills Acquisition Centre, and the Ibom Community Watch initiative. These initiatives provide vital training, mentorship, and job creation opportunities for young people, equipping them with the skills needed to succeed in today’s competitive economy.

Describing the selection process, SSA on ICT, Dr. Frank Ekpenyong said beneficiaries where chosen through an unbiased and thorough process.

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Ahead Christmas, It’s Glo’s Feliz Navidad All the Way on TVCs

Published

4 days ago

December 22, 2024

Eric

Celebratory seasons, such as Christmas and New Year, are times when corporate organisations churn out new television commercials (TVCs) to connect with their customers and share the fun, euphoria and uncommon conviviality of such seasons.

One such organization which has over the years used this strategy to great effect is Nigeria’s top telecommunications brand, Globacom.

The exciting commercials that the technology company keeps rolling out fan the delight and elation of the season of goodwill. The brand employs the occasion not only to promote brand awareness but to felicitate its customers and the nation at large.

It is a tradition Glo has established. Since it started operations in 2003, it has always used television commercials as veritable tools of ensuring brand presence, marketing products and services and spreading joy among its various targets.

The 2024 Yuletide adverts it rolled out recently are not different. The two unique yet powerful commercials serve dual purposes. They felicitate the Nigerian people and spread mirth, which the season typifies, around existing and prospective customers.

Expectedly, the two new commercials have dominated the airwaves, and kept viewers talking and relishing the joy that Christmas brings.

The first commercial features juju music maestro, King Sunday Adegeye, popularly called King Sunny Ade, who parades a full ensemble of dancers and a rich, talented band in the TVC tagged “Merry Christmas”. The percussions, rhythm and dance merge to foster affability and enchanting memories of the season of glad tidings.

Before the party celebration where King Sunny and his band entertain guests, the TVC takes viewers back to the 1970s and 1980s when Christmas was celebrated with so much fanfare. It paints a vivid picture of rural Nigeria during Christmas where the warmth of tradition and community fills the air. The village with lush green vegetation is buzzing with excitement, with children playing, women cooking delicious meals in open-air kitchens, the aroma of local dishes (you can literally perceive it) mixing with the sounds of Afro Juju music. Families and friends gather around, dancing joyfully to the rhythmic beats, their faces beaming with happiness as they celebrate the festive season. A woman bearing the Aso ebi for the party is shown coming down from a Peugeot 504 car which also reinforces the advert as being set in the 1980s.

The television commercial by the telecom company captures the essence of togetherness, blending the cultural richness of rural life with the spirit of Christmas, all while subtly underscoring the telecom brand’s role in connecting loved ones, no matter how far apart they may be. It ends with “Better don come. Merry Christmas, Nigeria” further underscoring the reason for the commercial.

The second commercial tagged “Feliz Navidad” uses a galaxy of known artistes including Nollywood star, Timini Egbuson, as well as Uche Nwaefuna (Uchemontana), Chigozie Stephanie Alichi (Chizzy Alichi), Tomi Ojo, Eronini Osinachim, Kiki Bakare and Tope Adenibuyan (Teddy A) to pass across the message of Christmas.

At the heart of the Christmas party, the energy is electric as tap dancers take center stage, their feet tapping out intricate rhythms that blend seamlessly with the upbeat melody of Feliz Navidad. The sound of their shoes striking the floor creates a lively pulse, complementing the lively tunes of the music band performers who bring the festive song to life with vibrant instruments and harmonious vocals. Laughter and cheer fill the air as all come together to toast the season, sharing in the joy of music, movement, and the warmth of the Christmas spirit. The scene is a vibrant celebration of culture, unity, and festive joy, all set to the timeless sounds of Feliz Navidad.

These commercials have further endeared the Glo brand to its subscribers and the general Nigerian public as they enjoy the geniality of the season of love, hope, gifts and celebrations.

Talking about the Yuletide commercials, Ademide Gafar, an industry watcher opined that churning out great TVCs is one of the selling points of the Glo brand while John Michael, a marketing communications expert, noted that Globacom is not just a leader in the telecommunications sector but a prominent creator of unforgettable commercials. From the nation’s pride in telecommunications, it’s Feliz Navidad-Merry Christmas!

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Court Sends Woman to Prison for Abusing Tinubu’s Son, IGP on Social Media

Published

5 days ago

December 21, 2024

Eric

Olamide Thomas, who reportedly threatened Seyi Tinubu on social media, was on Friday, arraigned before a Federal High Court in Abuja.

Olamide was arraigned by the office of the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, before Justice Emeka Nwite on a three-count charge.

Olamide was alleged to have, sometime in 2024, knowingly and intentionally transmitted communication in the form of video recording through a computer system or network on her social media platforms wherein she made remarks in Yoruba language.

In the video, she was alleged to have stated: “Mr. Seyi Tinubu would die this year, and misfortune and calamity had befallen the Tinubu family, with intent to bully, threaten, harass the person of Mr Seyi Tinubu.”

The communication was said to have placed Seyi in fear of death, violence or bodily harm.

The offence is contrary to and punishable under Section 24 (2) (a) of Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc.) (Amendment) Act, 2024.

In count two, the defendant was alleged to have intentionally transmitted communication in the form of video recording wherein she made remarks in Yoruba Language to bully, threaten, and harass the person of Egbetokun.

The communication was said to have placed Egbetokun in fear of death, violence or bodily harm.

The offence is contrary to and punishable under Section 24 (2) (a) of Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc.) (Amendment) Act, 2024.

She, however, pleaded not guilty to the charge.

Olamide was arrested on allegations bordering on harassing and threatening Seyi Tinubu, Egbetokun, and the Police Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi, in a viral social media post.

In the charge marked: FHC/ABJ/CR/636/2024 dated and filed on December 18 by the police team of lawyers led by A.A. Egwu, Olamide was sued as sole defendant.

Upon resumed hearing, Victor Okoye, who appeared for the police, informed the court that the matter was slated for arraignment and that he was ready to proceed.

After the counts were read to the defendant, she pleaded not guilty to the charge.

The defence lawyer, T J. Aondo (SAN), sought to move an oral application on his client’s behalf but the request was turned down.

Justice Nwite directed Aondo to file a formal bail application and adjourned the matter until December 30 for the commencement of trial.

The judge, however, assured the defence counsel that as soon as a bail application is filed in form of a motion on notice, the court would not hesitate to hear it.

Justice Nwite, thereafter, ordered Olamide to be remanded in Suleja Correctional Centre pending the hearing of her bail application.