Edo State APC Candidate Summoned Over Alleged False Declaration of Date of Birth
Abuja, Nigeria—As the Edo State gubernatorial election approaches, mounting legal troubles have cast a shadow over the candidacy of Monday Okpebholo, the All Progressives Congress (APC) nominee. In a development that has ignited debate over electoral integrity, Okpebholo has been summoned to appear before a Magistrate’s Court in Abuja on allegations of falsifying his date of birth on official documents submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The summons, issued by Magistrate Abubakar Mukhtar, requires Okpebholo to be present at the Wuse Zone 2 Magistrate Court on Friday, September 20, 2024, just a day before the election. At the heart of the case are claims of conflicting birth dates. While Okpebholo stated in one document that he was born on August 29, 1970, another submission reportedly lists his birthdate as August 29, 1972—a discrepancy that has fueled accusations of perjury. The suit was brought forward by Honesty Aginbatse, a resident of Edo State, who alleges that the APC candidate misrepresented his age on official electoral forms. According to court filings, the defendant submitted his personal particulars to INEC on March 24, 2024, with documents affirming the 1970 birthdate. However, a West African Senior School Certificate provided by Okpebholo lists 1972 as his year of birth, further complicating the matter. “This is a serious concern,” said Aginbatse in his formal complaint. “The statutory declaration of age, which in law stands in place of a birth certificate, clearly states 1970 as the defendant’s birth year, and any other assertion is false.” The legal battle raises broader questions about the potential impact on the impending election. While Okpebholo has yet to issue a public statement, political analysts suggest that the outcome of the case could have significant ramifications for the APC campaign. With election day drawing nearer, it remains to be seen whether the court proceedings will influence voter sentiment. However, Edo State voters, already on edge over rising political tensions, now face a contentious lead-up to the gubernatorial race, as questions over integrity and transparency swirl around one of the leading candidates. As the story develops, all eyes will be on the court hearing on September 20, which could mark a turning point not only in Okpebholo’s candidacy but also in the broader discussion on electoral accountability in Nigeria.
EFCC declares 26 year old wanted for stealing commission’s vehicle
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has declared Ibrahim Mohammed wanted. In a flier shared on its official X page and signed by the Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, the EFCC revealed that Mohammed, 26, is wanted for allegedly stealing the commission vehicle. The agency appealed to the public for any information regarding Mohammed’s whereabouts, urging them to contact the anti-graft agency or the nearest police station. According to the commission, the 26-year-old suspect hails from Jada Local Government Area in Adamawa State. The statement read: “The public is hereby notified that Ibrahim Mohammed, whose photograph appears above, is wanted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in an alleged case of stealing and illegal possession of the commission’s vehicle. “Mohammed, 26, is an indigene of Jada Local Government Area of Adamawa State, and his last known address is 56 Jada Bariki Road, Adamawa State. Anyone with useful information as to his whereabouts should contact the EFCC or the nearest police station.”
Headline: Dangote Refinery: Lagos Govt to ensure effective traffic management
As the Dangote Refinery prepares to commence operations, including the distribution and lifting of refined petrol to outlets on Sunday, September 15, the Lagos State Government has assured the public that a robust traffic management strategy will be in place. In a statement issued by the Director of Public Affairs and Enlightenment at the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), Adebayo Taofiq, the Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Transportation, Sola Giwa, confirmed the initiative. Mr. Giwa emphasized that the strategy would ensure smooth and uninterrupted traffic flow along the Lekki-Ajah corridor, considering the anticipated impact of the refinery’s operations beginning on Sunday. He further explained that LASTMA has been equipped with cutting-edge technology and trained personnel, who will be strategically deployed to manage and regulate traffic in the affected areas. Reassuring residents and commuters in the Lekki-Ajah area, Mr. Giwa urged them to remain calm, noting that the state government has made thorough preparations to manage the situation effectively. “In collaboration with relevant stakeholders, LASTMA has mobilized advanced tow trucks and emergency response equipment to promptly address potential traffic disruptions. Medical ambulance services are also on high alert to ensure rapid response to emergency situations.” “As the Dangote Refinery begins operations, Hon. Giwa emphasized the imperative of strict adherence to traffic regulations by tanker operators, particularly during loading and navigation within the Lekki-Ajah axis. The state government will rigorously enforce these regulations to prevent traffic disruptions and ensure seamless vehicular movement,” the statement added. According to him, the state government remains committed to prioritizing citizens’ welfare and ensuring smooth traffic flow during this crucial phase of industrial activity. He stressed that all road users, particularly commercial bus operators, including mini-bus drivers, must strictly adhere to traffic laws. This, he said, includes refraining from picking up or dropping off passengers at unauthorized locations, avoiding one-way driving, and obeying all traffic signs and signals, among other important regulations. He further noted that compliance with these measures is essential for maintaining a harmonious and efficient transportation system.
FG commences selection exams for Unity Principals
The Federal Ministry of Education has commenced the Computer-Based Test (CBT) for the selection of principals for Federal Unity Colleges. According to the Minister of Education, Tahir Mamman, 293 eligible candidates have been shortlisted for this competency-based test. He emphasized that the initiative reflects the Ministry’s commitment to promoting excellence and enhancing leadership within the nation’s unity schools. In a statement by the Ministry’s Director of Press and Public Relations, Boriowo Folasade, Ajia Binta Abdulkadir, Director of Senior Secondary School Education, said the exercise is essential to fill vacancies left by outgoing principals who have completed their six-year tenure. Abdulkadir further noted that the candidates were carefully selected from different states and invited to participate in the CBT, a system designed to ensure fairness, inclusivity, and transparency in the recruitment process. SASCON International School in Abuja was chosen as the examination venue due to its spacious facilities and conducive environment, providing comfort for all participants. Abdulkadir encouraged candidates to remain confident, adhere to the examination rules, and maintain professionalism throughout the process. Additionally, Udu Ali Lawrence, Director of Planning, Research, and Statistics at the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN), underscored the significance of this exam. He highlighted it as a key element of the career path policy and the professional standards set for school leadership. “The exam evaluates candidates’ competence in leadership, management, and teaching, ensuring they meet global educational standards,” said Lawrence. Lawrence added that Nigerian teachers are integral members of the global teaching community, noting that the initiative reaffirms the Ministry’s dedication to improving the quality of school leadership nationwide. “The Federal Ministry of Education remains steadfast in its mission to uphold the highest standards in education through this selection process, ensuring that only the most qualified individuals lead the nation’s Federal Unity Colleges.”
Nigeria Reopens Nurse Verification Portal, Easing International Employment Concerns
The Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) has reopened its verification portal, resolving a months-long disruption that caused significant hardship for Nigerian healthcare professionals seeking employment abroad. The portal, a critical tool for verifying the credentials of nurses and midwives, had been unexpectedly closed, leaving many professionals in limbo. The closure sparked protests and even legal challenges, with some nurses facing deportation or employment loss due to their inability to provide the necessary verification. The NMCN announced the portal’s reopening on Friday, stating, “Good news, verification requests are back online.” This development has brought relief to countless nurses and midwives who were anxiously awaiting the resolution of the issue. Outlined by the Punch. The portal closure had far-reaching consequences, particularly for those working in the United Kingdom and the United States. Many nurses found themselves in violation of visa conditions and employment laws due to the lack of verification, leading to legal repercussions and forced returns to Nigeria. Our correspondent confirmed linked has open for the nurse’s verification. While the NMCN has not officially commented on the reasons behind the initial closure, some officials have linked it to the Nigerian government’s efforts to curb the emigration of healthcare workers. The country faces a significant shortage of nurses and midwives, and the government is actively seeking ways to retain its healthcare workforce. The reopening of the verification portal marks a positive step towards resolving the challenges faced by Nigerian nurses and midwives seeking international employment. It is expected to streamline the verification process and reduce the disruptions experienced by healthcare professionals in recent months.
Enzo Fernandez Likely to Avoid FA Sanction for Racist Chanting Incident
Argentina and Chelsea midfielder, Enzo Fernandez, may likely avoid sanction from the English FA for racist chanting, according to a source cited by ESPN. Remember that the midfielder was caught on camera singing racist lyrics about the French national team. There has since been many calls for the player to be sanctioned. However, the English FA has not instituted any action against the Chelsea midfielder, although the incident was months ago.On the other hand, Tottenham midfielder Rodrigo Bentacur who made a racist remark about teammate Heung-Min Son. Bentacur made a statement implying that all South Koreans look the same. Following this, the FA has charged Bentacur for misconduct despite having apologized to Son, calling the comment “a bad joke.” Son has also responded that he accepts the apology. However, Bentacur has until September 19 to respond to the charge.This difference has been explained in terms of the context surrounding each incident. According to the earlier mentioned source, the FA is refraining from taking action on Fernandez because his racist action took place when he was representing Argentina on international duty. As such, his actions fall directly under FIFA’s jurisdiction. In Bentacur’s case, his statement was during an interview he granted on a personal capacity. Therefore, the FA can exercise jurisdiction over his action.Note also that FIFA has previously said in a statement that the Enzo Fernandez incident is being looked into. If the world governing body finds the Argentinian culpable, sanctions meted against him will only be in relation to Argentina games and will not affect his appearances for Chelsea.Bentacur will continue to appear for Tottenham before the date of his expected response. Therefore, he will be available to play against Arsenal on Sunday in the all-important North London Derby. Tottenham manager, Ange Postecoglou, explained that the two players have resolved the issue. He said, “Rodri has already apologized for what he said and Sonny has accepted that.
Rangers Secure Narrow 1-0 Win Over Sagrada Esperança in CAF Champions League Clash
NPFL sides Enugu Rangers and Enyimba took on their continental opponents earlier today. Rangers, the reigning NPFL champions, played at home against Sagrada Esperança of Angola in the first leg of the CAF Champions League Second Preliminary Round. The Nigerian champions will head into the second leg with a 1-0 lead, thanks to an 80th-minute goal by substitute Kazeem Ogunleye. The 18-year-old midfielder struck a powerful shot from just outside the box, sending the ball flying into the opponent’s net. The second leg of the knockout fixture will be played in Angola on September 22. This qualification stage will be followed by the lucrative group stage of the competition. Although Rangers had more ball possession, they were unlucky in front of goal, failing to convert their chances until Ogunleye broke the deadlock. In other news, Enyimba Football Club faced Etoile Filante in the first-round, second preliminary round of the CAF Confederation Cup. The game ended in a goalless draw, with neither side finding the back of the net. The result is crucial for the two-time African champions as they head into the second leg with a clean sheet and the advantage of playing in front of a home crowd at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo. The second leg of the tie is scheduled for September 22.
