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The Akwa Ibom State Government has inaugurated an Independent Monitoring Committee to oversee the implementation of the Administration of Criminal Justice Law (ACJL), saying it signals a renewed commitment to transparency and efficiency in the state’s justice system.

The committee was unveiled at the end of a five-day capacity-building workshop in Uyo, organised by the Centre for Law Enforcement Education (CLEEN Foundation) in collaboration with the Norwegian Embassy, to strengthen criminal justice processes and enforce compliance with the ACJL.

Retired Deputy Commissioner of Police Joseph A. Udoh was appointed chairman of the committee, while Barr. Comfort Udo, Deputy Director in the Ministry of Justice, serves as Legal Adviser.

Other members include Chief Magistrate Helen Umanah (Vice Chairman), Mrs. Amaka Asuzu of the National Human Rights Commission (Secretary), Barr. Sampson Adula of the Legal Aid Council (Advocacy Lead), Barr.

Emmanuel Udoyen of the Nigerian Bar Association serves as Assistant Advocacy Lead, while a veteran journalist, Comrade Solomon Okpo, serves as Communication and Visibility Lead.

Speaking after his inauguration, DCP Udoh (Rtd.) described the assignment as ‘both a privilege and a call to service,’ pledging to foster teamwork among justice institutions, including the Judiciary, Police, Correctional Service and Civil Society Organisations.

‘The ACJL represents a progressive step toward transforming Akwa Ibom’s justice system. Our goal is to ensure justice that is swift, transparent and people-centred,’ he said, adding that collaboration among institutions will help reduce case delays, protect human rights and enhance accountability.

Participants at the workshop discussed Advocacy and Coalition Building, Monitoring and Evaluation of ACJL compliance and Stakeholder Engagement, with sessions facilitated by CLEEN Foundation’s Acting Executive Director, Mr. Peter Maduoma, and Programme Manager, Mrs. Chigozirim Okoro.

The event ended with the formal signing of the committee’s Terms of Reference by Mr. Maduoma and DCP Udoh (Rtd.), marking a joint commitment to justice sector reform and institutional accountability in Akwa Ibom State.

Preparations for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) National Convention slated for November 15 and 16 in Ibadan, the Oyo State Capital, have received a significant seal of approval as members of the PDP Convention Committee expressed outright satisfaction with the infrastructure and readiness of the host state.

The commendation followed a detailed inspection tour of the Lekan Salami Sports Complex, Adamasingba, the designated venue for the historic gathering.

The inspection team, comprising core members of the National Convention Committee, arrived at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba, and was warmly received by the Oyo State Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Wasilat Adegoke.

The team, led on the tour by the Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Barrister Bayo Lawal, meticulously inspected every facet of the complex, including the expansive main bowl, the condition of the delegate and public toilet facilities, the surrounding training pitch, the stadium’s floodlighting systems, and other essential infrastructural and logistical points crucial for accommodating thousands of delegates and party leaders.

The State Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Wasilat Adegoke, while receiving the team, assured them of the state’s capability. ‘The Governor, His Excellency Engr. Seyi Makinde has charged us to ensure that the newly remodelled Lekan Salami Stadium not only hosts a memorable convention but sets a new standard for political gatherings in Nigeria,’ she stated. ‘All our facilities are up to par, and we are working round the clock on final touches to guarantee a hitch-free experience for every delegate and visitor.’

It Will Be the Most Organised Convention

Hon. Olajide Speaking with newsmen immediately after the inspection, the Secretary of the PDP Convention Committee, Honourable Stanley Olajide, conveyed the committee’s overwhelming approval of the arrangements in Oyo State.

Hon. Olajide expressed profound appreciation to the State Governor, emphasising that the tour served as a crucial preliminary assessment that yielded exceptional results.

‘Honestly, our preliminary assessment of the state of facilities in Oyo State has been highly satisfactory,’ Hon. Olajide declared.

‘We have seen the commitment on the ground. The structures are solid, the environment is secured, and the enthusiasm is palpable. I have no doubt in my mind that the forthcoming PDP National Convention in Ibadan will be one of the most successful and, indeed, the most well-organised events in the history of our great party.’

He further commended the state helmsman for his dedicated service to the party, adding, ‘Governor Seyi Makinde’s unwavering commitment to the progress of the PDP is evident in the quality of preparations we have witnessed here today. We thank him for his exemplary leadership.’

Addressing concerns about security, a critical aspect of any large political gathering, the PDP Convention Committee Secretary gave firm assurances.

‘The issue of security for the duration of the convention is one of our top priorities,’ Hon. Olajide affirmed. ‘We want to assure all our delegates, party leaders, and observers from across the nation that the security arrangements are being thoroughly managed by the committee. We are collaborating closely with all security apparatus in the state to guarantee a safe, secure, and serene environment for the entire event.’

This successful inspection reaffirms the commitment of the Oyo State Government and the PDP National Convention Committee to hosting a landmark event that will further strengthen the party ahead of future elections.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)-recognized National Chairman of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Alhaji Shehu Gabam, has dismissed reports of his expulsion from the party as ‘a nullity and the product of a kangaroo process,’ insisting that he remains the duly elected and INEC-recognized chairman of the party.

Speaking during a national television interview on Sunday night, Alhaji Gabam described the crisis rocking the SDP as ‘an artificially induced political operation,’ alleging that certain vested interests were bent on destabilizing the party because of its growing relevance and independent voice in national politics.

According to him, those claiming to have expelled him lack legitimacy and are not recognized by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). ‘The commission has the certified true copy of our convention held at the International Conference Centre in 2022, where my executive was duly elected.

‘None of those who claimed to have suspended or expelled me appears on that list. Even Sadik, who presided over their so-called meeting, is not a registered member of the party.’

Alhaji Gabam pointed out that the police had also been officially informed of the INEC-recognized leadership and that any group operating outside that structure was guilty of impersonation.

He urged the authorities to investigate those attempting to hijack the party’s organs.

Reacting to allegations of financial misconduct, embezzlement, and abuse of office levelled against him, Alhaji Gabam dismissed them as ‘cheap fabrications without substance.’

He explained that the same National Secretary of the party, Dr. Olu Agunloye, who raised the accusations, had earlier written a petition to the Inspector General of Police, but police investigations had not substantiated any wrongdoing.

According to him, ‘The police invited him to substantiate his claims, but no report has been issued.

‘Instead, he turned around to set up a kangaroo committee of his friends to investigate me. I was never invited or interrogated-not even for one second. It’s a political smear job.’

He also alleged that his life had been threatened by armed men during the course of the crisis, forcing him to exercise restraint.

‘People came with AK-47s to assassinate me,’ he said. ‘But I decided not to drag the SDP into the mess because I value the institution we are trying to protect.’

The SDP leader said what is happening in his party mirrors the crises in other opposition parties, adding that ‘there is no political party in Nigeria today that is standing firmly apart from the ruling APC.’

He, however, dismissed suggestions that his problem with some party members stemmed from hostility to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu or his government.

According to him, ‘I have always maintained mutual respect for the President and once held a private discussion with him when Tinubu considered joining the SDP during his face-off with the APC.

‘I have no personal issues with the President whatsoever,’ Gabam said. ‘Even at the time he was having challenges within the APC and was considering joining the SDP, we had a mature and civilized conversation. Eventually, he chose to remain in the APC. From that period till now, I have neither seen the President nor received any message from him. Those suggesting otherwise are manufacturing lies out of political insecurity.’

Alhaji Gabam emphasized that any position taken by the SDP on national issues was based on constructive criticism and patriotism. ‘Every opposing view we have expressed about government policies has been in good faith and in the national interest,’ he said. ‘I will never be part of any attempt to pull down a government because no one can predict the consequences.’

On claims that the party’s state chairmen endorsed his removal, Gabam described the assertion as false.

‘The so-called chairman of chairmen is not even a substantive chairman,’ he said. ‘He has been acting chairman of the party in Lagos for years, and his tenure expired long ago. In fact, there are three factions within the chairmen’s forum itself.’

He confirmed that the police had temporarily taken control of the SDP national secretariat in Abuja following violent clashes between rival groups. ‘As an experienced politician, I refused to force myself into the building because anything could be planted there and blamed on me,’ he explained. ‘The former Commissioner of Police deployed officers to prevent further violence, and I respect that decision.’

Despite the turbulence, Gabam maintained that his focus was on preserving the integrity of the SDP. ‘I will not do anything to bring down the party,’ he declared. ‘But anyone who tries to tarnish my name, I will pursue the matter to any length possible. Nigerians should know that I did not ignite this crisis. I am handling it with maturity, but history will record those who did.’

While reaffirming his position, Alhaji Gabam stated: ‘I remain the authentic National Chairman of the Social Democratic Party. Those trying to hijack the SDP are acting on political instructions, but the truth will prevail.’

In a landmark move to improve road safety, enhance insurance compliance, and ensure timely support for accident victims, the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) has entered into a strategic partnership with the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA).

The collaboration, anchored on the recently enacted Nigerian Insurance Industry Reform Act (NIIRA) 2025, seeks to integrate regulatory oversight, data systems, and enforcement mechanisms to strengthen the Motor Third-Party Insurance Scheme across the country.

The initiative was unveiled during a courtesy visit by the FRSC Corps Marshal, Shehu Muhammed, to the Commissioner for Insurance and Chief Executive Officer of NAICOM, Mr. Olusegun Ayo Omosehin, at the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja.

During the meeting, Corps Marshal Muhammed commended NAICOM for its leadership role in repositioning the insurance sector through the NIIRA, which he described as ‘a milestone reform with far-reaching impact on road safety, insurance integrity, and victim compensation.’

He highlighted the need for enhanced data sharing and system integration between the FRSC and NAICOM to facilitate quicker accident response, streamline claims settlement, and eliminate fake motor insurance certificates.

‘By digitising our processes and linking our databases, we can create a real-time verification system that ensures only valid third-party insurance policies are recognised, while improving emergency response and compensation timelines,’ Muhammed said.

In his response, Mr. Omosehin lauded the FRSC’s technological innovations in vehicle registration and licensing, noting that the collaboration aligns perfectly with NAICOM’s goal of improving compliance and transparency in the insurance ecosystem.

He explained that under the NIIRA 2025, the enforcement of compulsory third-party motor insurance has been strengthened, with the establishment of a dedicated fund to compensate road accident victims.

‘The new law creates a structured framework for enforcement and victim compensation. This fund, managed by a multi-stakeholder committee that includes representatives from the FRSC, will ensure prompt payment, accountability, and efficient coordination,’ the Commissioner stated.

Representing the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), Mr. Ajodi Nuhu Nasir described the partnership as a transformative step toward a more humane and responsive road safety ecosystem.

‘This collaboration guarantees not only safer roads but also timely and quality medical care for accident victims. It will help reduce fatalities and long-term disabilities resulting from crashes,’ he said.

Following the meeting, the three agencies agreed on several key action points, including: Integration of NAICOM and FRSC data systems to enable seamless information exchange and insurance verification; Launch of a joint national awareness campaign on the benefits of motor insurance and road safety compliance;

Formation of a joint enforcement committee to combat fake insurance practices; and Inclusion of insurance verification as part of FRSC’s enforcement and public education programmes.

The agencies emphasised that the partnership reflects a shared commitment to public welfare, regulatory efficiency, and digital innovation in the management of motor insurance in Nigeria.

‘This is a proactive step towards restoring public trust in motor insurance and ensuring that every valid policy translates into real protection for motorists and accident victims,’ Omosehin added.

The alliance is also expected to expand collaboration across data analytics, claims automation, and nationwide sensitisation campaigns to educate motorists on their obligations under the new insurance framework.

A date will soon be announced for the formal inauguration of the Joint Enforcement Committee, which will drive implementation and monitor compliance across states.

With this initiative, NAICOM, FRSC, and NHIA aim to create a unified and technology-driven system that protects lives, promotes financial inclusion, and strengthens confidence in Nigeria’s insurance and road safety systems.

Ondo Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has restated his administration’s unwavering commitment to enhancing the security framework of the State through sustained collaboration with all security agencies.

The Governor said his government’s approach prioritizes proactive intelligence sharing, inter-agency cooperation, and community safety as key pillars of state security policy.

Speaking while receiving the National Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Prof. Abubakar Ahmed, at the Government House in Akure, the Governor said security remains a top policy priority of his administration.

Aiyedatiwa noted that the recently leaked intelligence report among security agencies demonstrated effective collaboration and coordination within the state’s security architecture.

He assured that the government will continue to provide logistics, intelligence, and operational support to strengthen the collective capacity to tackle emerging threats.

The Governor emphasised that the peace and stability of Ondo State are non-negotiable, reaffirming his administration’s readiness to respond swiftly and decisively to any attempt to undermine public safety.

Speaking, the National Commandant NSCDC, Prof. Abubakar Ahmed, lauded Aiyedatiwa, for his consistent support towards strengthening security operations across the state.

He noted that Aiyedatiwa is among the few governors in the country who provide significant operational backing to the Corps, a gesture that has deepened collaboration between the government and security agencies in Ondo State.

He said: ‘Your Excellency, I am in Ondo State for operational activities and it is important for me to pay you a visit to appreciate all your efforts towards enhancing the security of this State.

‘I can say that just like your predecessor (late Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu) did, you are one of the few governors in Nigeria that we have identified as giving tremendous support for our operations.

‘In doing this, you have demonstrated exceptional leadership and all we can do is to continue to support the government in providing adequate security for the people of Ondo State.

‘We are here on the ground to access the situation and to further motivate our men who are working very hard.

‘We are satisfied with what we have seen so far and we will continue to collaborate with the government and other security agencies to enhance the security and safety of the people and national assets domiciled in Ondo State’.

Our spotlight today is on Otu Ibe-Enwo. Otu, who is also known as Otunberg, is a progressive Nigerian artist with great potential behind many contemporary masterpieces.

He has continued to stir up interest in his craft by curating thrilling re-interpretations of chromatic narratives by the use of vibrant hues.

In tribute to his Ejagham identity, his works bear markings of Ibidi inscriptions on Indigo Blue(backgrounds), with a pink base. The juxtaposition of these colours, which represent Afikpo gender codings, signifies the complementary inter-relationships between gender identities. These colours are recurrent in his paintings, forming the customary basis for his style.

His paintings reflect the resilient spirit of the Afikpo people and convey a spiritual quest for identity and emancipation, reinforced through struggle and perseverance. Afikpo’s riverine geography, historical depth, and proximity to Cross River and Nigeria’s border with West Cameroon make it a unique cultural melting pot-a hybrid sub-group sharing in the Ejagham identity.

Otu’s passion for African art has driven his extensive cultural research on his Afikpo/Ejagham heritage, which he expresses through his creative output.

Otu’s artistic influence has been developing with him hosting exhibitions in London, UK, Abuja, Nigeria as well as in his native town of Afikpo. Private collectors have purchased some of his works in Abuja, Lagos, London, New York and Vienna.

It is often said that the apple doesn’t fall too far from the tree. This adage reflects the manifestation of genetic or inherited traits which recur over generations within a given family.

Hence, it becomes the case that certain families exhibit a prevalence in a particular field. Families like the Rothschilds, Rockefellers and contemporarily, the Marleys, Kutis and Enwonwus epitomise this notion. On this basis we draw a parallel which would take the attention of our readers to Mgbom Village in Afikpo, Ebonyi State, South-East, Nigeria.

There, the name Chukwu Okoro (1910-1987), is revered as an extraordinary sculptor, artist, and wood-carver, who himself hails from a long lineage of renowned artists and custodians of Afikpo culture. His repertoire set him apart; he was recommended by Honourable Nnachi Enwo (a Member of the Nigerian Parliament from 1960-1963) to Professor Simon Ottenberg (an American anthropologist, researcher and scholar c.1923-2023).

Okoro became a field assistant to Ottenberg (on his field research on West Africa conducted in the 1950s) and donated his wooden masks and sculptures, some of which are housed internationally in institutions such as the Smithsonian Institute, the Seattle Art Museum and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology Museum, towards the research.

Chukwu Okoro is Otu’s great-grandfather. Thus, Otu’s background is deeply rich with personal heritage, elements that shape the authenticity of his creative voice and direct his artistic journey. He is passionately committed to contributing to ongoing analogies surrounding the social, political, philosophical, and cosmological ethos of the Ejagham people.

This young virtuoso, whose techniques are reminiscent of past prodigies, can achieve even greater feats and would benefit immensely from an art fellowship or residency.

Looking ahead, Otu hopes to establish an organisation that supports individuals facing adversity in pursuing their dreams and talents. Young artists like Otu and indeed the Nigerian society as a whole would gain immensely from innovative and skill-building initiatives.

Art entrepreneurships can empower young creatives to develop their skills, contributing to Nigeria’s success narrative through self-employment, thus playing a vital role in poverty alleviation.

Zamfara State Polio Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) has disclosed that, with the continued support of partners such as the World Health Organisation (WHO), the challenges associated with polio vaccination in the state are surmountable despite prevailing security concerns.

The centre revealed that over 1.8 million children have so far been vaccinated against the poliovirus across the state.

This was made known by the Incident Manager of the Zamfara State Polio EOC, Dr. Murtala Salaudeen, during a media briefing held to commemorate the 2025 World Polio Day in the state.

Dr. Salaudeen said there has been significant improvement in the fight against polio in Zamfara compared to previous years, noting that both national and international partners have played vital roles in achieving this progress.

‘National and international partners have contributed immensely to the reduction of polio. We were able to vaccinate all targeted children and reach many communities despite the challenges of insecurity,’ he said.

He added that with the collaboration of the Zamfara State Government and development partners, all obstacles to vaccination are now being effectively addressed.

Dr. Salaudeen commended partners, including WHO, UNICEF, Solina, Chigari Foundation, and Sultan Foundation, for their continued support in ensuring successful vaccination campaigns across the state.

Also speaking, the Executive Secretary of the Zamfara State Primary Health Care Board, Dr. Hussaini Yakubu Anka, lauded Governor Dauda Lawal for his unwavering support toward the success of immunization exercises in the state.

‘We appreciate the tremendous efforts of our royal fathers, traditional rulers, and religious leaders for their continuous enlightenment and advocacy on vaccination,’ he added.

Troops of the Nigerian Army engaged in ongoing security operations in Kebbi have reportedly neutralised no fewer than 80 armed bandits attempting to infiltrate the state from the Zamfara border.

Abdullahi Idris Zuru, Special Adviser to the Governor on Communication and Strategy, in a statement issued on Sunday, said the success of the operation was part of ongoing efforts by the Kebbi State Government to strengthen security across border communities.

According to him, the operation in Ngaski Local Government Area was made possible through the strategic deployment of troops along the state’s borders with Sokoto, Zamfara, and Niger states, as directed by the Governor.

Governor Idris, he said, had earlier requested the deployment of additional military personnel to address security challenges in the state, leading to sustained operations that have foiled infiltration attempts by armed groups.

Zuru added that credible intelligence led to the positioning of troops around Makurdi village, resulting in a successful confrontation with heavily armed bandits attempting to cross from Niger State between Friday night and Saturday.

According to Abdulrahaman Usman, Director of Security in the state, about 80 bandits were neutralised during the encounter, and several motorcycles were recovered alongside two abducted persons who were rescued.

The statement further noted that the collaboration between the Kebbi State Government and security agencies, including the Nigerian Army, has been instrumental in recent operational gains.

The Governor has recently provided logistical support, including 100 Hilux vehicles and 5,000 motorcycles, to enhance troop mobility and response capacity.

Reacting to the development, the Emir of Yauri, Dr. Zayyanu Muhammad, commended the troops for their efforts and lauded Governor Idris for his continued commitment to safeguarding lives and property in the state.