Police bust ritualist gang targeting Uber drivers in Rivers

 

2nd June 2024

The Rivers State Police Command has apprehended a graduate of Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, Port Harcourt, for allegedly luring cab drivers to ritualists.

He will face charges in court, according to the State police command.Ignatius Ajuru University of Education entrance

Spokesperson of the Command, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, disclosed this in a statement issued in Port Harcourt on Sunday.

Iringe-Koko, said the arrest of the suspect, Anthony Chima, aged 35, a graduate of Political Science from the university followed the sudden disappearance of an Uber driver identified as Oghenevwarhe Akpobome, upon which operatives swung into action.

She stated that after his arrest, the suspect confessed to how he was recruited into a gang that specialized in luring cab drivers into ambushes, stealing their vehicles, and ultimately murdering them for ritualistic purposes and organ harvesting.

The statement read, “In a shocking turn of events, the Rivers State Police have uncovered a disturbing criminal enterprise that has been targeting Uber drivers in the region.

“According to Chima’s testimony, he was recruited into a gang that specialized in luring cab drivers into ambushes, stealing their vehicles, and ultimately murdering them for ritualistic purposes and organ harvesting.”

BREAKING NEWS: NLC and TUC To Proceed with strike

 BREAKING NEWS : NLC and TUC to proceed with a strike despite the call from the NASS Leadership to resume negotiations at the discussion table.

JUST IN: Flights threatened as Nigerian aviation unions join strike

 JUST IN: Flights threatened as Nigerian aviation unions join strike

Aviation unions have agreed to join the organised Labour in its indefinite strike starting tomorrow.

The aviation unions which initially said they were yet to receive a directive from the Trade Union Congress which they are affiliated to have now directed its members to withdraw services across airports in Nigeria.

The Southern Post learnt that the unions decided after an emergency meeting held on Sunday.

The withdrawal would take effect by midnight on Monday, June 3, the unions declared.

US based Nigerian woman, is seeking a well educated man for marriage

 A US-based Nigerian woman, Ogechukwu Christine Kalu,  is seeking a well educated and God fearing man for marriage.

 

The educational consultant, in a post on Sunday, June 2, 2024, said the man should know how to cook, do laundry, enjoy other house chores, PDA and “perform.”

 

"Now that my DM is clogged with “I love you” let me reinstate that I am single. Looking for a cute man, well educated, God fearing, knows how to pray and intercede for the family, can cook and enjoys laundry, is homely and can fold clothes immediately after laundry. Enjoys house chores, can take care of kids and also has a good job business and/or great career prospects. Loves PDA and can perform. Loves plants. Enjoys listening to worship. Expects loyalty, respect, faithfulness because he gives and is capable of giving them long term. Listens to understand and not to respond. Knows how to pronounce “parallelogram, Otorhinolaryngologist, and Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious”

Nigeria Minister of Finance optimistic about the economy

 Finance Minister, Wale Edun, says the inflationary crisis plaguing the country has been projected to fall in the coming months and Nigeria ''needs to stay the course'' to get out of it.

During one on one on Channel TV 

#Sunday Politics

South Africa president faces up to poor poll result

Lou Newton

President Cyril Ramaphosa has described South Africa's election results as a victory for its democracy, despite his African National Congress (ANC) party losing its majority for the first time.

The party, which was once led by Nelson Mandela, won 159 seats in the 400-seat parliament, down from 230 in the previous assembly.

It is the ANC's worst election result since apartheid ended 30 years ago - though it still has by far the most seats.

The results announced on Sunday represent a sharp drop in support for the party, which now must go into a coalition to form the next government.

"Our people have spoken, whether we like it or not, they have spoken," Mr Ramaphosa said.

"As the leaders of political parties, as all those who occupy positions of responsibility in society, we have heard the voices of our people and we must respect their wishes."

South Africa's political parties have two weeks to work out a coalition deal, then the new parliament will sit to choose a president.

Former president Jacob Zuma, who now leads the MK party that came third, did not attend the results announcement and had suggested that he might challenge them.

Earlier in the day, Mr Zuma called for an election rerun and said the electoral commission should not announce the final results.

On Saturday, he warned the commission that it would "be provoking us" if it ignored his demand for a fresh election, and for an independent investigation into his party's claims that it was rigged.

"Don’t start trouble when there is no trouble,” he said.

There are now concerns over how Mr Zuma's supporters may respond to the results.

Earlier, South Africa's police chief warned that threats to destabilise the country would not be tolerated.

"There cannot be any room for threats of instability in order to register objections or concerns about the electoral processes," Police Minister Bheki Cele said at a news conference

BBC

93 year old Media mogul has tied knot with Elena Zhukova

The owner of Fox news, media mogul Rupert Murdoch, at the age of 93, has tied the knot with his partner Elena Zhukova in a lavish ceremony at a picturesque California vineyard. The couple's union comes after Murdoch proposed to Zhukova earlier in 2024, marking a new chapter in their relationship. The wedding celebrations were said to be a grand affair, attended by close family and friends, showcasing the couple's love and commitment to each other.

The union of Rupert Murdoch and Elena Zhukova has captured the attention of many, given the significant age difference between the two. Despite the years that separate them, the couple's bond reflects a deep connection and mutual respect, evident in their decision to formalize their relationship through marriage. Murdoch, a prominent figure in the media industry, has found happiness and companionship in Zhukova, a testament to the power of love transcending age and societal norms.

The lush California vineyard provided a stunning backdrop for the couple's nuptials, adding a touch of romance and sophistication to the occasion. As they embark on this new journey together, Rupert Murdoch and Elena Zhukova stand as a testament to the enduring nature of love and partnership. Their wedding serves as a celebration of their unique bond and the joy of finding a lifelong companion to share life's moments with.

With a lifetime of experiences and successes behind him, Rupert Murdoch's marriage to Elena Zhukova symbolizes a new chapter filled with love, happiness, and togetherness. As they embrace the future together, the couple's union is a reminder that love knows no boundaries and can flourish at any stage in life, bringing fulfillment and joy to those who dare to seek it.

As Super Eagles fly home to the Nest

 [OPINION] As Super Eagles fly home to the Nest 

By Etim Etim

The recent certification of Akwa Ibom State-owned football stadium by CAF as the only approved home ground for all of Super Eagles’ international matches is a big boost for tourism in the state, and a dividend of the huge investments in sports facilities that the government has made over the years. The Super Eagles will now play all their CAF/FIFA international home matches at the famous Godswill Akpabio International Stadium (also known as the Nest of Champions) in Uyo. Fans are already bracing up for the arrival of the Eagles in Uyo as the 2024 Nations Cup and 2026 World Cup will soon kick off; and since Nigeria is co-hosting the 2024 AFCON Cup with Benin Republic, football fans across the country will soon descend on the Akwa Ibom capital. Completed in 2014 by the Akpabio administration and designed in the shape of a bird’s nest, the 30-000 capacity stadium is the most modern football facility in West Africa. It is modelled after the Allianz Arena, the 70-000 stadium in Munich, Germany.

The Nest has bullet proof VVIP/VIP areas; Box Office; media facilities; two scoreboards and video facilities for replays. There are 30 emergency exit points; a helipad; two dressing rooms and ambulance bay. When I broke the news of the certification to Senator Akpabio last night, he cooed: ‘’Congratulations to Akwa Ibom people. They are reaping the benefits of the era of uncommon transformation’’. There are other smaller, but up-to-date stadia that are suitable for trainings. Last year, the Uyo township stadium was comprehensively refurbished with an Olympic-sized swimming pool added. In Eket, a 40-minute drive from Uyo, the government has also built a new township stadium. It was commissioned early this year by former Governor Udom Emmanuel. About a kilometer from the Nest of Champion is another football stadium built in 2017. NDDC hosted its sports competitions in 2020 down there.

But there is more to Akwa Ibom than sports facilities. The state has two five-star hotels: Ibom ICON Golf Resort, a beautiful facility lying on the banks of the tributary of Cross River. The lawn tennis courts on the marina are my favourite getaway. The 18-hole golf course is one of the best in the country on which many an international golfer has played since it opened in 2007. There is also Four Points by Sheraton Hotel in Ikot Ekpene, just a 25-minute drive from the Nest of Champions. Typical of the renowned Sheraton brand, the facility is one of the best furnished hotels in Africa. In addition, there are many other privately owned hotels that would cater for ordinary football fans that will pour into the state. With a good road network, Akwa Ibom has the least crime rate in the country. Its airline, Ibom Air, has in its four-year history, impressed the travelling public with its prompt service. The cuisine is in a class of its own. A lot of people talk fondly of edikang ikong soup, but if you haven’t tasted the fisherman soup in Uyo, then you ain’t eaten nothing yet!

Akwa Ibom State is therefore a natural home for the nation’s football team, and this much was stated by the NFF Chairman, Ibrahim Gusau when he visited Gov. Umo Eno on Thursday. He asked the government to support the Federation to make the tournaments successful, just as Mr. Eno commended his predecessors for the huge investments in sports in the state. He announced that the state has renewed its facility management contract with Julius Berger Plc to continue keeping the Nest of Champions in good shape. I should emphasize that this stadium had in the past hosted a few of the Super Eagles’ international engagements and fans had always come out in their numbers to cheer them. I have attended a few of those games. But in recent times, the national team have been playing at the MKO Abiola National Stadium in Abuja. But by designating Akwa Ibom as the home ground for the Eagles, all CAF/FIFA games would only be played in Uyo. It is a pleasant development. In addition to keeping the stadium beautiful, the government should go a step further and ensure that the state looks its best. Steet and traffic lights should work perfectly; lunatics that roam the streets, apparently brought in from neighbouring states, should be permanently taken care of and refuse collection efforts should be stepped up. The police will do well to keep crime rate as low as it is or even lower.

Much more, I will like the government to encourage sports among school kids in the state. Whatever happened to inter-secondary school football competitions which were so well organized in the ‘70s when I was a star footballer for my school? What of basketball, lawn tennis and athletics? It is possible that the death of youth sports in our schools has led to the flourishing of cult activities among these kids. The government should bring back Boys’ Scouts, Girls Guide, Man-o-War and other such associations to our schools. They helped in instilling discipline and moulding our characters in those days.

I welcome Super Eagles to the Nest of Champions. Their coming should boost the stadium’s advertising revenues which should go into maintaining the facility. The influx of football fans into Uyo will undoubtedly boost the local economy. I urge the fans and Akwa Ibom people to enjoy the games responsibly.

Last night’s heavy downpour, the Deputy Governor Senator Akon Eyakenyi PhD visited Ewet Housing Estate (Extension),

 In response to a distress call earlier today, the Deputy Governor Senator Akon Eyakenyi PhD visited Ewet Housing Estate (Extension), where a house was submerged and surrounding buildings flooded as a result of last night’s heavy downpour. 

The Akwa Ibom State Government sympathises with victims of the disaster even as efforts are being made to ameliorate their pain and find a permanent solution to the menace. The Deputy governor drew their attention to the efforts of His Excellency, Pastor Umo Eno at de-flooding Atiku Abubakar Road, Tabernacle Road and the ongoing Uyo - Ewet Reclamation and Beautification Project to underscore government’s determination to keep the State safe and flood free.  

Away from the present incident, She also used the occasion to once again draw the attention of our people to the 2024 Annual Flood Outlook Report released by the federal government through the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) which lists Akwa Ibom among the 31 States which will likely experience flooding this year.

Although His Excellency, Pastor Umo Eno immediately swung into action by constituting a  Committee chaired by me to work towards mitigating the impact of such occurrences, the solution is largely dependent on our collective attitude towards the environment. We must avoid dumping refuse in gutters,  building on waterways as well as littering our streets with non biodegradable pollutants like plastics, polythene bags, aluminum cans, glass objects, etc. In our own interest, we must learn to periodically desilt   gutters in our surroundings. 

Moreso, while building in areas where roads are yet to be constructed, it’s important to raise our houses to the likely levels of the envisaged roads so that they don’t become too low for inhabitation after construction since we are topographically a flatland which is susceptible to flooding. 

Keeping our environment safe and healthy is everyone’s responsibility.

Senate President, Godswill Akpabio and the leadership of the Nigeria Governor's Forum in a bid to avert the planned Nationwide strike

Deborah Tolu-Kolawole

 In a bid to avert the planned nationwide strike, the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, and the leadership of the Nigeria Governors Forum have invited the leadership of the Organized Labour for an emergency meeting Tonight, sources familiar with the matter told our correspondent on Sunday Afternoon.

“A meeting has been summoned by the senate president and the Nigeria Governors Forum. The meeting will be held Tonight,” a highly knowledgeable source said.

On Friday, the Nigeria Labour Congress declared an indefinite nationwide strike, starting on Monday, June 3, 2024, due to the Federal Government’s refusal to increase the proposed minimum wage above N60,000.

The President of the NLC, Joe Ajaero, announced that the strike followed failed negotiations between the government and organised labour.

Market Surveillance Officer at the Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX Group

 Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX Group)

Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX Group)

Market Surveillance Officer at the Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX Group)

NGX Group seeking an exceptional and highly motivated individual to work collaboratively in the development and implementation of Market Surveillance plans and strategies.

By The Southern Post June 2, 2024 Reading Time: 2 mins read

Nigerian Exchange Group Plc. is a Holding Company (HoldCo) that sits at the apex of several organisations including; NGX Regulation Ltd, NGX Real Estate Ltd and Nigerian Exchange Ltd

Job Summary

We are seeking an exceptional and highly motivated individual to work collaboratively in the development and implementation of Market Surveillance plans and strategies for the Market Surveillance Unit. He/She will support the team with objectives of providing assurance on integrity of Market Surveillance processes.

The successful candidate will report to Team Lead, Market Surveillance.

Actively participate in monitoring the markets to detect anomalies, review market alerts, as well as address market participant inquiries;

Carry out regular surveillance reviews to ensure that NGX Group’s trading systems are operating optimally to achieve market efficiency consistent with applicable regulations;

Carry out first level investigations of identified surveillance alerts signifying potential violations of market rules recommend for further actions;

Assist in development and implementation of Market Surveillance plans and strategies;

Review results of post trade analysis for unusual market events and trading behaviour, escalating outcomes; including issues that require physical inspections;

Support investigation efforts of tips, referrals, as well as complaints from Market participants;

Ensure updates to Market rules are implemented.

Gather and generate Market intelligence to support recommendations for management decisions.

Person Specification & Required Qualification (s)

HND/Bachelor’s degree in in Finance, Economics, Statistics, Computer Science or any related field;

Professional certification(s) such as ACCA, ACA, CPA, CFA, CIS is an added advantage;

Minimum of 4 years’ cognate experience in Market Surveillance, Compliance, or a related field within the financial industry;

Significant knowledge of Capital Market operations, with familiarity on the trading rules of NGX Regulation;

In-depth understanding and practical knowledge of NGX and SEC rules and regulations, Market Structure, Trading Platforms, Surveillance Systems and Financial Instruments;

Experience as a “Securities Trader” is desired.

Please apply directly or send an updated resume to talentmanagement@ngxgroup.com with the subject title “NGX REGCO Recruitment – Market Surveillance Officer” Kindly note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Gov.Otti gives scholarship to children of slain soldiers

 NEWSAbia: Otti gives scholarship to children of slain soldiers

Published on June 2, 2024

By Matthew Atungwu

Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has awarded scholarships to the children of the 5 soldiers who were killed during an attack at a checkpoint in Obikabia, Ogbor Hill, Aba.

Otti made this promise when he paid a condolence visit to the headquarters of the 144 Battalion, Asa in Ukwa West council, to commiserate with the widows of the slain military personnel.

“Let me start by sending out words of sympathy to the Nigerian Army, the Brigade Commander himself and most importantly the families of the five fallen heroes.

"It’s as if General Diya was with me at the last place that we went to where I had promised everybody that was listening to me that we would smoke out whoever is remotely connected to this killing, whoever they are, wherever they are, wherever they run to,” he said.

To support the families of the slain soldiers, the Governor announced an automatic scholarship for the deceased’s children to the university level and promised that he would ensure that the scholarship was legalized by the state House of Assembly.

He explained that the legalization of the scholarship to the children of the dead soldiers is to ensure that successive governments continue to fund the scholarship.

He explained that the legalization of the scholarship to the children of the dead soldiers is to ensure that successive governments continue to fund the scholarship.

STRIKE: NUPENG has directed its members to comply

 The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) has directed its members to comply with the directive of the labour unions to begin an indefinite nationwide strike on Monday.

On May 31, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) declared an indefinite nationwide strike to begin on June 3, over the federal government’s refusal to increase the minimum wage from N60,000

All eyes on Odot Nsit Atai

A look at the Primary Health Center Odot Nsit Atai

By Anietie Edet

 The Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, has successfully delivered on his commitment to the people of Nsit Atai with the completion of a state-of-the-art Primary Health Centre in Odot. Executed by U&K Limited, the project meets high standards in terms of design, quality, and functionality. The facility boasts solar-powered street lights, meticulously paved internal roads, and an elegant fountain, enhancing its aesthetic appeal and functionality. This achievement stands as a testament to the Governor's dedication to improving healthcare infrastructure in the area.

African Development Bank

$117 billion General Callable Capital increase approved for the African Development Bank by its Board of Governors, at its Annual Meetings in Nairobi, Kenya. I am grateful to our shareholders for their extraordinary confidence and support.  

⁦@AfDB_Group

⁩

Woman Kills her husband with a pestle

 

Woman k+lls her husband with a pestle for allegedly having a side-ch+ck in Ondo State

A woman, Omolara Oluwakemi, has been arrested for the m¥rder of her husband, Seidu Jamiu.

It was gathered that the incident happened on Saturday night, June 1, 2024, in Akungba Akoko, Ondo State.

A source who spoke to the Southern Post said the suspect used a pestle to hit her husband on the head while he was asleep after she discovered he had a side-ch+ck. The husband was rushed to the hospital but was pronounced d£ad on arrival.

Omolara was quickly arrested and is currently thinking about her actions as she wonders who will take care of their three children now that she’ll likely be jailed for m¥rder. This incident is coming after the deceased bought a car for her and built her a house in Ondo State.

Nigerians in Diaspora laud Fubara’s leadership style

 The group emphasised that Governor Fubara’s approach to politics was still relatively rare in Nigeria’s dynamic political landscape.

In a statement signed by its President, Dr Reginald Agamah, the group noted that despite distractions from disgruntled politicians in the state, Governor Fubara’s achievements in just one year in office are far-reaching and worthy of commendations.

Dr Agamah lauded the Governor for resisting the urge to use the distractions he faced from state actors as an excuse not to perform.

Bauchi commissioner killed in road crash

 

Bauchi commissioner Ahmad Jalam killed in road crash

The commissioner left behind wives and many children and would be buried on Sunday in his hometown in Dambam LGA.

NEW AGENCY OF NIGERIA 02 June

The commissioner for local government and chieftaincy affairs in Bauchi, Ahmad Jalam, has been killed in a road crash.

The crash occurred on Saturday.

Governor Bala Mohammed disclosed this in a condolence message to the members of his immediate family, which was issued in the early hours of Sunday.

According to him, the commissioner lost his life in an accident that occurred on the busy Misau-Darazo highway.

Mr Mohammed described the deceased as a dedicated public servant whose commitment to the development and well-being of his local communities was unwavering.

The governor said, “During his lifetime, he championed numerous initiatives aimed at improving good governance and community relations.

(NAN)

Billionaire Philanthropist, Wale Babalakin, Gbongan Monarch Pledge Support to Osun Govt.

 "Billionaire Philanthropist, Wale Babalakin, Gbongan Monarch Pledge Support to Osun Govt, Says Gov Adeleke is Performing Excellently

OSOGBO- 31/05/2024- Osunstate.gov.ng

A frontline business lawyer and Chief Executive of Bi-Courtney Limited, Dr. Wale Babalakin SAN has promised to support the Osun State Government in its drive to take the state out of the woods.

The Senior Lawyer gave this pledge while hosting the Governor today in his country home, Gbongan, Ayedaade Local Government area.

The Governor who was in Gbongan for the burial celebration of late Pa Gabriel Adegoke Ajayi used the opportunity to appreciate the elder statesman for his numerous contributions to national development and request his support for the State Government as no government can develop the society alone without support from societal stakeholders.

Senator Adeleke briefed the frontline entrepreneur on his triple-focussed agenda of soft, hard and stomach infrastructure and the successes recorded.

The Governor narrated the underpinning principles of his leadership to include local content in procurement, contracting and workforce alongside financial transparency and open government.

“We call on the Osun elite to join me in this task of rebuilding the state economy first through infrastructure upgrade, agro-industrial development and restoration of workers’ dignity. We are open to ideas to complement our resolute determination to take Osun to greater heights”, the Governor told a small circle of top leaders including the Gbongan monarch, the revered Olufi, Oba Adetoyese Babayemi.

In his remarks, the Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Dr. Babalakin who conducted the Governor round his 6000 seater capacity conference hall with meeting halls expressed delight at the quality of good governance being delivered by the Asiwaju of Edeland.

Dr. Babalakin pledged to deploy his wealth of experience and resources to support the government as it continues to steer the ship of the state to greater heights.

"I want to use this opportunity to thank Your Excellency, Governor Adeleke for leaving no stone unturned as you vigorously pursue your infrastructural development agenda". Dr. Babalakin said..."