Category: Nigerian Tribune

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress in Abia state, Prince Paul Ikonne, has called on Governor of Abia, Alex Otti, to desist from chasing political clout with the name of the leader of the outlawed group, the Independent People of Biafra ( IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.

Prince Ikonne said the governor’s recent public remarks on the issue of Nnamdi Kanu were nothing but a desperate attempt to gain attention.

Addressing a large gathering of Ukwa la Ngwa youths who paid him a courtesy visit at the weekend, Prince Ikonne expressed deep concern that Governor Otti appeared to have continued to use sensitive national issues to distract Abians from his growing record of underperformance.

In a statement released Saturday in Abuja, by his Chief Press Secretary, Dr Ujo Justice Ikonne, said: ‘It is unfortunate that Governor Otti has chosen to play politics with the emotions of the people by dragging the name of Nnamdi Kanu into his failing government narrative.’

Prince Ikonne described Governor Otti’s administration as ‘a government of repainting, rebranding of some old structures while claiming new achievements.’

He added that Abians are now wiser and will no longer be deceived by mere aesthetics or photo opportunities.

On the issue of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the APC chieftain said: ‘For more than two years in office, Governor Otti never paid a visit, never made a concrete intervention, and never demonstrated any concern about Mazi Nnamdi Kanu’s situation. Now that his government’s credibility is collapsing, he suddenly remembers Kanu. That is hypocrisy at its peak,’ Ikonne said.

He emphasised that Mazi Nnamdi Kanu will regain his freedom without Alex Otti’s political grandstanding and urged the governor to stop exploiting the issue for personal and political advantage.

‘Let me thank my friend and brother Hon. Obi Aguoch and Hon. Ichita for their efforts towards the freedom of Mazi Nnamdi which I believe will bring good results very soon.’

Prince Ikonne further encouraged Abia youths to remain vigilant, courageous, and firm in demanding accountability from their leaders, noting that no amount of propaganda can substitute for genuine performance.

He also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for ensuring consistent financial support to state governments and for creating national frameworks aimed at stabilizing the economy. Ikonne expressed disappointment that while such resources are available, the Abia State Government has failed to translate them into real developmental results.

‘Leadership is about impact, not impression. Abians deserve real projects, and visible progress – not endless excuses, photo-ops, and political drama.’

President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has urged Nigerian youths not to despair about the troubling situation in the country but make conscious efforts to change the narrative.

He made the declaration at an interactive session with youths at an event organised by the office of the Youth Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dayo Israel.

At the event tagged, ‘An Uncommon Evening With President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio,’ the Senator representing Akwa-Ibom North West, acknowledged that there is poverty in the country, but urged the youths not to lose faith in the future of the country.

He said, ‘The world was not built in a day. If you feel discouraged about Nigeria’s future, do something about it. As a young person, you can change Nigeria by doing the right thing. Start first by cleaning your environment. Start first by sharing what you have with others. Start first by showing love to one another.

‘Don’t mind the situation you find today. The evil you see today, you shall see them no more. The poverty around you today, you shall see them no more. Just believe strongly and have faith in your country. That your time will come and Nigeria will change.

‘So, do not be despair. Do not feel discouraged about this country. Just believe in this country. I am here to encourage you. The mind is stronger than the body. Ensure that your mind is stronger than your body.

‘Believe in your mind that your country shall be better. Believe in your mind that you shall make it in life, and you will make it in life. Believe in your mind that you will be the agent of change for your generation, and you will be the agent of change because the mind is stronger than the body.

‘What l will say to the Nigerian child is for the child to have a mindset, to have faith in Nigeria and to ensure that he thinks positively about this country because what he thinks in his mind is what will happen to Nigeria.’

Akpabio described the ruling party as the only stable political party and vehicle of change in the country.

‘APC is not an accident. APC is a dream that was well thought out. APC is a vehicle of transformation. APC is a vehicle of leadership. APC is a vehicle for change. APC is the only stable political party in Nigeria that will guarantee your electoral victory in future.

‘You are not just leaders of tomorrow. You are the leaders of today. I decided to honour the National Youth Leader and all of you to be here tonight because I am a strong believer in the youth.

‘Tonight, l came to tell you, do not wait to be leaders of tomorrow. You are leaders of today. Discover your mission of uniting Nigeria. Your mission of loving one another. Discover your mission of gaining respect from the international community through ensuring that whatever responsibility bestowed on you, you carry it to the letter.’

Responding to a question on what inspired him to go into politics, Akpabio said ‘Anger inspired me to go into politics.

‘If you are not angry with the situation of your family, assuming you were born into a poor home, you will not be able to change that home. Anger inspired me to go into politics.’

Earlier in his welcome address, the APC National Youth Leader, Dayo Israel, explained that the essence of the interactive session was to allow the youth to listen to the Senate President on what inspired him and to hear lessons that would challenge them to be leaders of tomorrow.

Bauchi Police Command has launched an investigation into the alleged killing of a police constable, Ukasha Muhammed (F/No. 533164), by a soldier attached to the Special Task Force (STF), Operation Safe Haven, Jos, Plateau.

The incident reportedly occurred on Friday, October 10, 2025, at Tudun Wadan Dan Iya, popularly known as Bayan Gari, a busy social area in Bauchi metropolis.

Eyewitnesses said the altercation began around 9 p.m. when a police patrol team stopped to conduct routine searches of vehicles and motorcycles in the area. One of the individuals reportedly resisted and obstructed the officers, sparking a brief commotion before leaving the scene.

According to the source, the man – later identified as a soldier – returned about an hour later with two colleagues and allegedly shot Constable Ukasha in the chest. The assailants reportedly attempted to flee but were restrained by bystanders until police reinforcement arrived.

Confirming the incident in a statement, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), CSP Mohammed Ahmed Wakil, said the command received a distress report at about 10:35 p.m., detailing an assault on a patrol team led by Inspector Hussaini Samaila in the Bayan Gari area.

‘The patrol team encountered an assault on one of its members, Constable Ukasha Muhammed, by two individuals in front of Padimo Hotel. The remaining members of the team responded swiftly, resulting in the apprehension of one suspect, while the other escaped the scene,’ the statement read.

Wakil identified the first suspect as Private Usman Mubarak (23NA/84/5346), attached to Operation Safe Haven, Jos.

He added that, around 11:05 p.m., two other soldiers – Private Yakubu Yahuza (23NA/85/10185) and Private Godspower Gabriel (23NA/84/5654) – arrived at the scene armed and partially dressed in military uniforms, before allegedly shooting Constable Ukasha in the chest.

The injured officer was rushed to the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital (ATBUTH), Bauchi, where he was pronounced dead by medical personnel. His remains have been deposited in the hospital morgue.

The statement confirmed that the two soldiers, Yakubu Yahuza and Godspower Gabriel, have been arrested and are in police custody.

The Commissioner of Police, Sani-Omolori Aliyu, has ordered a comprehensive homicide investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the killing and ensure justice is served.

‘A team of seasoned detectives has been constituted to conduct a professional and thorough investigation to clear all doubts and ensure justice through a meticulous process,’ Wakil added.

The Commissioner also condoled with the family of the deceased officer, praying for the repose of his soul and strength for his loved ones to bear the loss.

The Presidency has released the details of 175 convicts and former convicts granted presidential pardon and clemency by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Bayi Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, in a statement via his X account on Saturday, explained that the list includes Maryam Sanda, who stabbed her husband, Biliyaminu Bello to death and was sentenced to death in 2020.

According to him, the list also included illegal miners, white-collar convicts, remorseful drug offenders, foreigners, and capital offenders who received the president’s mercy based on the reports that the convicts had shown remorse and good conduct.

The Presidency said Sanda was granted a pardon following her family’s plea, ‘arguing that it was in the best interest of her two children. The plea was also anchored on her good conduct in jail, her remorse, and her embracement of a new lifestyle, demonstrating her commitment to being a model prisoner.’

Onanuga disclosed that Ken Saro Wiwa and the other Ogoni Eight.

Explaining further on what informed the president’s decision to grant them pardons, Onanuga said Tinubu ‘forgave some due to old age, the acquisition of new vocational skills, or enrolment in the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN). President Tinubu also corrected the historic injustice committed by British colonialists against Sir Herbert Macaulay, one of Nigeria’s foremost nationalists.

‘In all, the Presidential Advisory Committee on the Prerogative of Mercy, chaired by the Attorney-General and Justice Minister, Prince Lateef Olasunkanmi Fagbemi, recommended pardon for two inmates, 15 former convicts, 11 of whom have died. The committee recommended clemency for 82 inmates and commutation of sentences for 65 inmates. Seven inmates on death row also benefited from the Presidential reprieve. The committee recommended that the President should commute their death sentences to life imprisonment.

‘Prince Fagbemi presented the committee’s report at the Council of State meeting, chaired by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,’ he added.

FULL LIST OF BENEFICIARIES OF PRESIDENT TINUBU’S MERCY

PARDONED

1. Nweke Francis Chibueze, aged 44, serving a life sentence at Kirikiri for cocaine.

2. Dr Nwogu Peters, aged 67; Serving a 17-year jail term for fraud. Sentenced in 2013.

3. Mrs Anastasia Daniel Nwaoba, aged 63. Already served a sentence for fraud

4. Barr. Hussaini Alhaji Umar, aged 58. Sentenced in 2023 to pay a fine of N150M in the ICPC case

5. Ayinla Saadu Alanamu, age 63, was sentenced to seven years for bribery in 2019 and has served the sentence.

6. Hon. Farouk M. Lawan, aged 62. Sentenced to five years in 2021 for Corrupt Practices and had served the sentence.

POSTHUMOUS PARDON

7. Sir Herbert Macaulay was banned from public office for misappropriation of funds and sentenced in 1913 by the British colonialists.

8. Major-General Mamman Jiya Vatsa, age 46, Sentenced in 1986 for treason: related to an alleged coup plot

POSTHUMOUS PARDON: THE OGONI NINE

9. Ken Saro Wiwa. Sentenced for murder

10. Saturday Dobee. Sentenced for murder

11. Nordu Eawa. Sentenced for murder

12. Daniel Gbooko. Sentenced for murder

13. Paul Levera. Sentenced for murder

14. Felix Nuate. Sentenced for murder

15. Baribor Bera. Sentenced for murder

16. Barinem Kiobel. Sentenced for murder

17. John Kpuine. Sentenced for murder

VICTIMS OF OGONI NINE HONOURED:

Chief Albert Badey

Chief Edward Kobaru

Chief Samuel Orage

Chief Theophilus Orage

PRESIDENTIAL CLEMENCY

Most of the beneficiaries showed either remorse or learned vocational skills in jail

1. Aluagwu Lawrence, aged 47, sentenced for Indian hemp (selling), 2015

2. Ben Friday, aged 60, was sentenced to 3 years or N1.3 million fine for marijuana in 2023.

3. Oroke Micheal Chibueze, aged 21, sentenced to 5 years (cannabis sativa) in 2023

4. Kelvin Christopher Smith, aged 42, was sentenced to 4 years for importing cocaine in 2023

5. Azubuike Jeremiah Emeka, aged 31, sentenced in 2021 to 5 years or N3 million fine for importing cocaine.

6. Akinrinnade Akinwande Adebiyi, aged 47, sentenced in 2023 to 3 years for dealing in Tramadol.

7. Ahmed Adeyemo, aged 38, sentenced to 15 years for cannabis. Already served nine years, 5 months at Kirikiri

8. Adeniyi Jimoh, aged 31years, sentenced to 15 years for Drugs in 2015 and served nine years at Kirikiri.

9. Seun Omirinde, aged 39, sentenced to 15 years for Drugs in 2015. Served nine years at Kirikiri

10. Adesanya Olufemi Paul, aged 61, sentenced to 14 years for theft. Had served eight years.

11. Ife Yusuf, aged 37, was sentenced for human trafficking in 2019. Had served six years at Kirikiri.

12. Daniel Bodunwa, aged 43, was sentenced in 2018 to 10 years for fraudulent intent to forge a land receipt. Had served six years in jail

13. Fidelis Michael, aged 40, sentenced to 5 years for cannabis sativa

14. Suru Akande, aged 52, sentenced to 5 years for cannabis sativa

15. Safiyanu Umar, aged 56, sentenced to 5 years without the option of a fine for possessing 5kg of Cannabis sativa, 2023

16. Dahiru Abdullahi, aged 46, was sentenced in 2016 to 21 years for possession of 3 pistols and had spent 10 years in jail.

17. Hamza Abubakar, aged 37, sentenced to 5 years for Indian hemp (selling), 2022

18. Rabiu Alhassan Dawaki, aged 52, sentenced in 2020 to 7 years for criminal breach of trust.

19. Mujibu Muhammad, aged 30, sentenced in 2022 to 5 years, no option for a fine for cannabis.

20. Emmanuel Eze, aged 49, sentenced in 2022 to 5 years for Heroine.

21. Bala Azika Yahaya, aged 70, sentenced in 2017 to 15 years for cannabis.

22. Lina Kusum Wilson, aged 34, sentenced to death in 2017 for culpable homicide, had spent eight years in jail.

23. Buhari Sani, aged 33, sentenced in 2022 to 5 years for possession of 558 grams of cannabis.

24. Mohammed Musa, aged 27, was sentenced in 2022 to 5 years for possession of 16 grams of cannabis.

25. Muharazu Abubakar, aged 37, sentenced in 2022 to 5 years for selling Indian hemp. Already spent 3 years in Katsina Prison

26. Ibrahim Yusuf, aged 34; jailed 5 years in 2022 for possession of 5.7 grams of Indian hemp.

27. Saad Ahmed Madaki, aged 72; sentenced in 2020 for a 419 offence. Had served 4 years in Kaduna prison

28. Ex-Corporal Michael Bawa, aged 72: sentenced to life imprisonment for murder in 2005. Had spent 20 years in Kaduna prison

29. Richard Ayuba, aged 38. Sentenced to 5 years in 2022 for Indian hemp

30. Adam Abubakar, aged 30 and sentenced in 2022 to five years for possession of 2kg of tramadol.

31. Emmanuel Yusuf, aged 34; sentenced in 2022 to 4 years for possession of 2kg of tramadol

32. Edwin Nnazor, aged 60; sentenced in 2018 to 15 years for cannabis. Had spent 6 years, nine months at Zamfara prison

33. Chinedu Stanley, aged 34. Sentenced in 2023 to three years for fake lubricant oil.

34. Joseph Nwanoka, aged 42: sentenced in 2022 to five years for drugs

35. Johnny Ntheru, Aged 63, sentenced in 1989 to life imprisonment for robbery. Had spent 36 years in Umuahia Prison

36. John Omotiye, Aged 28, sentenced to six years for Pipeline vandalism

37. Nsikat Edet Harry, Aged 37, sentenced in 2023 to 5 years for Illegal possession of Indian hemp, Cocaine, and Heroin.

38. Jonathan Asuquo, Aged 28, sentenced in 2022 to 5 years for possession of Indian hemp and other drugs

39. Prince Samuel Peters, aged 54, sentenced in 2020 to 7 years for obtaining money by false pretence. Had spent 4 years, 3 months in Ikot Ekpene Prison

40. Babangida Saliu, Aged 35, sentenced in 2024 to 3 years for unlawful mining.

41. Adamu Sanni, aged 39, sentenced in 2024 to 3 years for unlawful mining.

42. Abdulkarem Salisu, aged 30, sentenced to 3 years for unlawful mining.

43. Abdulaziz Lawal, aged 18, sentenced to 3 years for unlawful mining.

44. Abdulrahman Babangida, aged 20, sentenced to 3 years for unlawful mining

45. Maharazu Alidu, aged 22, sentenced to 3 years for unlawful mining.

46. Zaharadeen Baliue, aged 38, sentenced to 3 years for unlawful mining.

47. Babangida Usman, aged 30, sentenced to 3 years for unlawful mining.

48. Zayyanu Abdullahi, Aged 28, sentenced to 3 years for unlawful mining, 2024

49. Bashir Garuba, Aged 20, sentenced in 2024 to 3 years for unlawful mining

50. Imam Suleman, aged 25, sentenced to 3 years for unlawful mining, 2024

51. Abbeh Amisu, Aged 28, sentenced to 3 years for unlawful mining, 2024

52. Lawani Lurwanu, Aged 20, sentenced to 3 years for unlawful mining, 2024

53. Yusuf Alhassan, aged 33, was sentenced to 3 years for unlawful mining in 2024.

54. Abdulahi Isah, aged 25, sentenced to 3 years for unlawful mining, 2024

55. Zayanu Bello, aged 35, sentenced to 3 years for unlawful mining

56. Habeeb Suleman, aged 22, sentenced in 2024 to 3 years for unlawful mining.

57. Jubrin Sahabi, aged 23, was sentenced to 3 years in 2024 for unlawful mining.

58. Shefiu Umar, aged 28, was sentenced to 3 years in 2024 for unlawful mining.

59. Seidu Abubakar, age 29, sentenced in 2024 to 3 years for unlawful mining.

60. Haruna Abubakar, Aged 24, was sentenced to 3 years in 2024 for unlawful mining

61. Rabiu Seidu, aged 26, sentenced in 2024 to 3 years for unlawful mining.

62. Macha Kuru, Aged 25, sentenced in 2024 to 3 years for unlawful mining

63. Zahradeen Aminu, Aged 25 years, sentenced to 3 years for unlawful mining.

64. Nazipi Musa, aged 25. Sentenced to 3 years for unlawful mining in 2024

65. Abdullahi Musa, aged 30 and sentenced to 3 years in 2024 for unlawful mining.

66. Habibu Safiu, aged 20 and sentenced to 3 years in 2024 for unlawful mining

67. Husseni Sani, aged 21 and sentenced to 3 years in 2024 for unlawful mining

68. Musa Lawali, aged 25 and sentenced to 3 years in 2024 for unlawful mining

69. Suleiman Lawal, aged 23 and sentenced to 3 years in 2024 for unlawful mining

70. Yusuf Iliyasu, aged 21 and sentenced to 3 years in 2024 for unlawful mining

71. Sebiyu Aliyu, aged 20 and sentenced to 3 years in 2024 for unlawful mining

72. Halliru Sani, aged 18 and sentenced to 3 years in 2024 for unlawful mining

73. Shittu Aliyu, aged 30 and sentenced to 3 years in 2024 for unlawful mining

74. Sanusi Aminu, aged 27 and sentenced to 3 years in 2024 for unlawful mining

75. Isiaka Adamu, aged 40 and sentenced to 3 years in 2024 for unlawful mining

76. Mamman Ibrahim, aged 50 and sentenced to 3 years in 2024 for unlawful mining

77. Shuaibu Abdullahi, aged 35 and sentenced to 3 years in 2024 for unlawful mining

78. Sanusi Adamu, aged 28 and sentenced to 3 years in 2024 for unlawful mining

79. Sadi Musa, aged 20 and sentenced to 3 years in 2024 for unlawful mining

80. Haruna Isah, aged 35 and sentenced to 3 years in 2024 for unlawful mining

NB: Senator Ikra Aliyu Bilbis signed an undertaking to be responsible for the rehabilitation and empowerment of all the convicted illegal miners granted presidential clemency.

81. Abiodun Elemero, aged 43. Sentenced to life imprisonment for cocaine hawking in 2014. Had spent 10 years plus in Kirikiri,

82. Maryam Sanda, aged 37, was sentenced to death in 2020 for culpable homicide and had spent six years, eight months at Suleja Medium Security Custodial Centre. Her family pleaded for her release, arguing that it was in the best interest of her two children. The plea was also anchored on her good conduct in jail, her remorse, and her embracement of a new lifestyle, demonstrating her commitment to being a model prisoner.

LIST OF INMATES RECOMMENDED FOR REDUCED TERM OF IMPRISONMENT

1. Yusuf Owolabi, aged 36. Sentenced to life in 2015 for Manslaughter. Had spent 10 years at Kirikiri.Prison term reduced to 12 years for showing remorse and learning vocational skills.

2. Ifeanyi Eze, aged 33. Sentenced to life in 2021 for Manslaughter and had spent four years at Kirikiri. Prison term reduced to 12 years for showing remorse and learning vocational skills.

3. Malam Ibrahim Sulaiman, aged 59. Sentenced to life in 2022 for Armed robbery and possession of illegal firearms. Sentence cut to 10 years based on good conduct

4. Shettima Maaji Arfo, aged 54. Sentenced in 2021 to seven years for Corrupt Practices. Sentence reduced to four years, because of good conduct and ill-health

5. Ajasper Benzeger, aged 69 and sentenced in 2015 to 20 years for Culpable homicide. Sentence reduced to 12 years, based on old age and ill-health.

6. Ifenna Kennechukwu, aged 42. Sentenced in 2015 to 20 years for drugs (cocaine import) and had spent close to 10 years in Kirikiri. Prison term reduced to 12 years based on remorse and the acquisition of vocational skills.

7. Mgbeike Matthew, aged 45. Sentenced to 20 years in 2013 for the import of 3.10kg. Following remorsefulness and the acquisition of vocational skills at Kirikiri. Sentence reduced to 12 years.

8. Patrick Mensah, aged 40. Sentenced in 2015 to 17 years for drugs. Sentence reduced to 11 years

9. Obi Edwin Chukwu, aged 43 and sentenced in 2017 to 15 years for drugs. Sentence reduced to 10 years.

10. Tunde Balogun, aged 32 and sentenced in 2015 to 15 years for drugs. Sentence reduced to 10 years.

11. Lima Pereira Erick Diego, aged 27 and sentenced in 2017 to 15 years or a fine of N20million for drugs. Sentence reduced to 10 years.

12. Uchegbu Emeka Michael, aged 37. Sentenced in 2017 to 15 years or a fine of N20million for drugs. Sentence reduced to 10 years

13. Salawu Adebayo Samsudeen, aged 46 and sentenced in 2016 to 15 years for drugs. Sentence reduced to 10 years.

14. Napolo Osariemen, aged 61 and sentenced in 2022 to 15 years for 2 kilos of Indian hemp. The sentence was reduced to seven years.

15. Patricia Echoe Igninovia, aged 61 and sentenced in 2023 to seven years for trafficking in persons. Sentence reduced to five years.

16. Odeyemi Omolaram, aged 65 and sentenced in 2017 to 25 years in prison for drug. The sentence was reduced to 12 years based on the defendant’s remorsefulness and advanced age.

17. Vera Daniel Ifork, aged 29 and sentenced in 2020 to 10 years for trafficking in persons. Sentence reduced to eight years.

18. Gabriel Juliet Chidimma, aged 32 and sentenced in 2022 to six years for drug (cocaine). Sentence reduced to four years.

19. Dias Santos Marcia Christiana, aged 44 and sentenced in 2017 to 15 years for import of cocaine. Sentence reduced to 10 years.

20. Alh. Ibrahim Hameed. Aged 71 and sentenced in 2023 to seven years for illegal property (obtaining property under false pretence). Sentence reduced to five years.

21. Alh. Nasiru Ogara Adinoyi, 65, was sentenced in 2023 to 14 years for obtaining property by false pretence. The sentence was reduced to seven years.

22. Chief Emeka Agbodike, aged 69, was sentenced in 2023 to seven years for obtaining property by false pretence. Sentence reduced to 3 years.

23. Isaac Justina, aged 40. Sentenced in 2022 to 10 years for cannabis sativa and had spent 3 years in the Abeokuta Custodial Centre. Sentence reduced to four years.

24. Aishat Kehinde, aged 38 and sentenced in 2022 to five years for unlawful possession of cannabis. The prison term being served in Abeokuta has been reduced to four years.

25. Helen Solomon, age 68. Sentenced in 2024 to five years for cannabis sativa. Sentence reduced to three years.

26. Okoye Tochukwu, aged 43 and sentenced in 2024 to six years for cannabis sativa. Sentence reduced to 3 years.

27. Ugwueze Paul, aged 38 and sentenced in 2024 to six years for cannabis sativa. Sentence reduced to three years.

28. Mutsapha Ahmed, aged 46 and sentenced in 2022 to seven years without a fine option for criminal breach of trust. The sentence was reduced to five years.

29. Abubakar Mamman, aged 38 and sentenced in 2020 to 10 years in Kebbi Custodial Centre for Possession of firearms. Sentence reduced to seven years.

30. Muhammed Bello Musa, aged 35. Sentenced in 2020 to 10 years in Kebbi Custodial Centre for illegal possession of firearms. Sentence reduced to seven years

31. Nnamdi Anene, aged 67 and sentenced in 2010 to life imprisonment at Katsina Custodial Centre for illegal dealing of arms. Sentence reduced to 20 years.

32. Alh. Abubakar Tanko, aged 61, was sentenced in 2018 to 30 years at the Gusau Custodial Centre for Culpable Homicide. Sentence reduced to 20 years.

33. Chisom Francis Wisdom, aged 30; sentenced in 2018 to 20 years in Umuahia Custodial Centre for kidnapping. Sentence reduced to 12 years.

34. Innocent Brown Idiong, aged 60, sentenced in 2020 to 10 years for possession of 700 grams of Indian Hemp. Has already spent 4 years and 3 months at Ikot Abasi Custodial centre. Jail term reduced to six years.

35. Iniobong Imaeyen Ntukidem, aged 46, was sentenced 2021 to seven years in jail at the Uyo Custodial Centre. Prison term reduced to five years.

36. Ada Audu, aged 72, was sentenced in 2022 to seven years in Kuje Custodial Centre and had spent 2 years and 7 months in prison. Prison term reduced to 4 years because of old age.

37. Bukar Adamu, aged 40 and sentenced to 20 years in 2019 for advance fee fraud. Prison term reduced to nine years.

38. Kelvin Oniarah Ezigbe, 44, was sentenced in October 2023 to 20 years for kidnapping, which took effect in 2013. The sentence was reduced to 13 years for showing remorsefulness and attending the National Open University.

39. Frank Azuekor, aged 42. Sentenced in 2023 for kidnapping and jailed in Kuje Custodial Centre for 20 years, and had spent 12 years behind bars from 2013. The sentence was reduced to 13 years, based on good conduct and attendance at the National Open University.

40. Chukwukelu Sunday Calisthus, aged 47 and sentenced in 2014 to life at Kuje Custodial Centre for drugs. He had spent 11 years at Kuje. Sentence reduced to 13 years.

41. Professor Magaji Garba, aged 67. Sentenced in 2021 to seven years for obtaining money by false pretence and had spent 3 years at Kuje Custodial Centre. The prison term was reduced to four years due to good conduct and advanced age.

42. Markus Yusuf, aged 41. Sentenced in 2023 to 13 years for culpable homicide. Sentence reduced to 5 years based on ill-health

43. Samson Ajayi, aged 31 and sentenced in 2022 to 15 years for drugs. He had spent five years at Suleja Custodial Centre. The sentence was reduced to seven years.

44. Iyabo Binyoyo, aged 49. Sentenced in 2017 to 10 years for drugs and sentenced to nine years at Suleja Custodial Centre, due to good conduct.

45. Oladele Felix, 49, was sentenced in 2022 to five years without a fine option for conspiracy and exploitation. Based on good conduct and remorsefulness, the sentence was reduced to four years. Felix is spending the term at Suleja.

46. Rakiya Beida, aged 33 and sentenced in 2021to seven years, without a fine option, for theft and cheating. The sentence, being served at Suleja, was reduced to three years based on good conduct

47. Nriagu Augustine Ifeanyi, aged 44 and sentenced in 2018 to 10 years in Ikoyi Custodial Centre, for exporting cocaine. The sentence was reduced to eight years.

48. Chukwudi Destiny, aged 36 and sentenced in 2022 to six years in Ikoyi Custodial Centre for heroin import. The sentence was cut to four years.

49. Felix Rotimi Esemokhai, aged 47 and sentenced in 2022 to five years for heroin. The sentence was reduced to four years.

50. Major S.A. Akubo, aged 62, was sentenced in 2009 to life at Katsina Custodial Centre for illegally removing 7,000 assorted weapons. Following good conduct and remorsefulness, the sentence was commuted to 20 years.

51. John Ibiam, aged 39, was sentenced in 2016 to 15 years for manslaughter and served 9 years and one month in the Afikpo Custodial Centre. The sentence was reduced to 10 years after the individual showed remorse and acquired vocational skills.

52. Omoka Aja, aged 40 and sentenced in 2016 to 15 years for manslaughter, served 9 years and 1 month in Afikpo Custodial Centre. The sentence was commuted to 10 years.

53. Chief Jonathan Alatoru, aged 66, was sentenced in 2021 to seven years for conspiracy to cheat. The sentence served in Port Harcourt Custodial Centre has been reduced to five years.

54. Umanah Ekaette Umanah, aged 70 and sentenced in 2022 to 10 years in Port Harcourt Custodial Centre for forgery. Sentence reduced to five years due to old age and remorsefulness.

55. Utom Obong Thomson Udoaka, 60, was sentenced in 2020 to seven years in Ikot Ekpene Custodial Centre for obtaining money by false pretence. He had served four years and two months at Ikot Ekpene. Due to his old age and good conduct, the Initial Sentence has been reduced to five years.

56. Jude Saka Ebaragha, aged 44. Sentenced in 2020 to 12 years at Ikoyi Prison and a fine of N1million for conspiracy to hijack a fishing vessel. The sentence was commuted to six years, and the N1m fine was waived.

57. Frank Insort Abaka, 46, was sentenced in 2020 to 12 years and a N1M fine at Ikoyi Custodial Centre for conspiracy to hijack a Fishing vessel. The sentence was reduced to six years, and the fine was waived.

58. Shina Alolo, 42, was sentenced in 2020 to 12 years and a N1M fine at Ikoyi Custodial Centre for conspiracy to hijack a fishing vessel. Like others, the N1m fine was waived, and the sentence was reduced to 6 years.

59. Joshua Iwiki, aged 50: Sentenced in 2020 to 12 years at Ikoyi Prison and a fine of N1M for conspiracy to hijack a fishing vessel. A N1m fine was waived, and the sentence was commuted to six years in prison.

60. David Akinseye, aged 44: Sentenced in 2020 to 12 years and N1M fine for conspiracy to hijack a fishing vessel. His sentence was commuted to 6 years, and the fine was waived.

61. Ahmed Toyin, aged 46: Sentenced in 2020 to 12 years and N1M fine for conspiracy to hijack a fishing vessel. Sentence also commuted and fine waived.

62. Shobajo Saheed, age 57: Sentenced in 2020 to 12 years and a fine of N1M for conspiracy to hijack a fishing vessel. He got a similar reprieve like the others.

63. Adamole Philip, aged 52 years: Sentenced to 12 years and a N1M fine for conspiracy to hijack a fishing vessel, 2020. Philip also got his term reduced to seven years and the fine waived.

64. Mathew Masi, aged 39: Also sentenced to 12 years and a fine of N1million for conspiracy to hijack a fishing vessel. The sentence was reduced to six years, and the fine was waived.

65. Bright Agbedeyi, 46, was also sentenced in 2020 for conspiracy to hijack a fishing vessel. Like the others in his category, he got a reprieve from President Tinubu.

List of Inmates on Death Row Reduced to Life Imprisonment

1. Emmanuel Baba, aged 38: sentenced to death in 2017 for culpable homicide. On death row in Kuje Custodial Centre for the past 8 years. The sentence was commuted to life imprisonment based on good conduct and remorsefulness.

2. Emmanuel Gladstone, aged 45, was sentenced in 2020 to death for murder and had spent five years at Katsina Custodial Centre. Death sentence commuted to life imprisonment due to good conduct and remorse.

3. Moses Ayodele Olurunfemi, aged 51: sentenced to death in 2012 for culpable homicide and had spent 13 years on death row in Katsina. President Tinubu commuted the death sentence to life imprisonment, citing the individual’s good conduct and remorse.

4. Abubakar Usman, aged 59: Sentenced to Death in 2014 and had spent 14 years on death row in Katsina. His sentence was commuted to life because of his remorse and good conduct.

5. Khalifa Umar, aged 37: Sentenced to death in 2014 and had spent 11 years on death row in Kano Custodial Centre. His sentence has been commuted to life imprisonment.

6. Benjamin Ekeze, age 40. Sentenced to death in 2017 for armed robbery and conspiracy, and had spent 12 years on death row at Kirikiri, Lagos. The sentence was also commuted to life.

7. Mohammed Umar, 43: Sentenced to death in 2018 for culpable homicide and had spent seven years on death row in Onitsha Custodial Centre. He got the Presidential reprieve, commuting the death sentence to life imprisonment.

Maxitech Global Investment Limited, one of Nigeria’s fastest-growing IT distribution and enterprise support firms, has been named HP Retail PC Partner of the Year 2024 at the prestigious HP | Intel Channel Awards, held at the Lagos Marriott Hotel, Ikeja GRA.

Themed ‘A Night of Radiance,’ the annual awards celebrate exceptional HP channel partners who demonstrate excellence in sales performance, innovation, and customer service across the company’s distribution network.

Maxitech Global clinched the top spot in the retail PC category, earning recognition for its outstanding sales execution, channel development initiatives, and strategic growth contributions in Nigeria’s competitive technology market.

‘This recognition is a testament to the dedication, discipline, and innovation of our entire team. At Maxitech, we believe in transforming technology into opportunity. Our partnership with HP continues to redefine value delivery, expand access to quality computing, and enable businesses and individuals to do more’, said Oluwaseun Akinwale, Managing Director of Maxitech Global.

The collaboration between HP and Intel continues to promote excellence in Nigeria’s IT ecosystem by rewarding partners who drive innovation and elevate customer experiences. The recognition further solidifies Maxitech Global’s position as a leading player in the country’s retail technology sector.

Building on this milestone, Maxitech Global announced plans to deepen collaboration with HP and other original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to roll out new retail programs, customer-focused campaigns, and expand operations across Africa.

Founded in Lagos, Maxitech Global Investment Limited has grown into a trusted name in IT distribution and enterprise solutions, specializing in laptops, computers, and related technologies for individuals, institutions, and resellers.

The company’s emphasis on excellence, transparency, and customer satisfaction continues to redefine the retail technology landscape across West Africa.

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has cautioned applicants participating in its 2025 recruitment exercise to disregard social media posts claiming to reveal the number of shortlisted candidates per state for the final stage of recruitment, describing the information as false and unverified.

The Service reaffirmed that its recruitment process remains transparent, merit-driven, and aligned with global best practices.

In a statement shared on X on Saturday, titled ‘Unverified Social Media Post on 2025 Nigeria Customs Service Recruitment Exercise,’ the NCS clarified that the viral publication did not originate from the Service or any of its authorised communication channels.

‘The Service wishes to categorically state that the publication did not originate from the Nigeria Customs Service or any of its authorised communication channels,’ the statement read. It urged members of the public, particularly applicants, ‘to disregard the information in its entirety.’

Reiterating its commitment to a credible and fair process, the NCS stated, ‘The Nigeria Customs Service remains firmly committed to a selection process consistent with global best practices and in line with the principle of Federal Character.’

The Service noted that all official updates are communicated directly to shortlisted applicants through the Recruitment Update Portal at https://updates.customs.gov.ng.

It also reminded the public that the official recruitment exercise, which commenced on December 27, 2024, received 573,523 applications across the Superintendent, Inspectorate, and Customs Assistant cadres. Following documentary screening, 286,697 candidates were shortlisted for the first phase of the Computer-Based Test (CBT), which was conducted in batches ‘to ensure fairness and system efficiency.’

If I read news of the death of Arise News anchor, Somtochukwu Maduagwu, at her residence in Katampe, Abuja, on September 29, with deep sorrow, I read news of the arrest of the perpetrators with heartbreak and exhaustion. According to the FCT police command, which arrested 12 of the robbers that had invaded Somtochukwu’s residence and caused her to jump down to her death from an impossible height in utter fright, one of the suspects, Shamsudeen Hassan, confessed to shooting the security guard who perished in the attack, while another, Sani Sirajo, admitted to trying to prevent the journalist from falling off the three-storey building but being overpowered by her weight. The 12 suspects each received N200,000 from the robbery and bloodshed, and presumably had a dinner of drugs and choice food while their victims lay in the pool of their own blood, silenced forever, and their (the victims’) families wailed in unending agony, disconsolate.

I was in the Tribune House, Ibadan, writing recently when I suddenly learnt that the police were engaged in a shootout with a gang of robbers right behind our fence! One was killed and another arrested. That day, I marveled that if the robbers, who had earlier shot two people in different places, had not been caught that day, they would have gone home to sleep soundly and engage in whatever revelry they chose.

I asked a colleague: ‘How do the women of these criminals engage in pleasure with them despite knowing that they have shed blood and caused other people untold pain?’ The brain of some women is full of sawdust.

In Missouri, United States, 16-year-old schoolboy, Evan Bottler, lies in his hasty grave. The victim of a sextortion network traced to Lagos, Evan took his own life shortly after receiving a blackmail message from someone posing as a teenage girl on Snapchat. That ‘someone,’ one child of perdition called Ola, had obtained nude images of the boy while posing as an online lover. He then began threatening to release the nudes if the boy did not pay up. One of his messages read: ‘I have your nudes and everything needed to ruin your life.’

Now, hear the incredible statement that this murderer made when US investigators asked him if he felt any remorse: ‘I don’t feel bad because I need the money.’ The denominations can pillory the Laodicean Age messenger, William Branham, as much as they want, but there are two distinct categories of humans on this planet, one of them carrying the DNA of the adversary. Ola’s victims, dead or ruined, will never recover from his assault, but he does not care a hoot. Regardless of whatever punishment the authorities come up with, it is my sincere hope that everything that Ola has amassed from his sextortion will perish before his eyes.

His co-demon, one Ikechukwu, has just been arrested in Argentina over multiple romance scams involving thousands of women and for leading an international cybercrime network. Back home, this lunatic would have paraded town as an Odogwu – perhaps he is a chief in his hometown. But if you think Ikechukwu is mean, then consider the trio of Chukwuebuka Nka, Uche Okechukwu and Somto Chukwuma, three kidnappers who were recently arrested by the police in Delta State. Do you know what they did? They shot their victim for having ‘insufficient funds’ in his account! They had seized the victim’s Toyota Venza, then flown into a rage when they found ‘just N2 million’ in his account. And for having the temerity to be that poor, the victim got blazing bullets in his leg!

Various theories explain why some criminals apparently ‘enjoy’ post-crime life. Individuals with psychopathic traits are said to experience shallow emotions and to lack guilt, allowing them to pursue pleasure without remorse. It is also said that the brain’s mesolimbic system can be hyper-responsive to thrill-seeking or material gain, reinforcing criminal behaviour. Then there is cognitive dissonance reduction. The idea is that to cope with the conflict between action and self-image, offenders may rationalize or minimize the harm.

Again, it is a no-brainer that peer groups or subcultures that glorify crime can provide camaraderie, making the offender feel a sense of social reward. In short, crime does pay. Mechanisms such as dehumanizing victims, diffusing responsibility, or blaming someone else allow offenders to detach from the moral weight of their crime. Besides, substance abuse can create a temporary ‘high’ that masks guilt. This may be why criminals have a love affair with hard drugs and drinks.

Experts say that if a child’s early environment rewards rule-breaking, he or she may internalize crime as a normal pathway to gratification. So, what are we teaching our children? I ask this question because I remember certain things that my father used to do that, as a child, I thought were wrong or excessive, but which I came to appreciate in adult life.

One day in Ekotedo, Ibadan, he sent me to buy rice and beans from a certain Egba woman’s place. As it happened, the woman had mistakenly put four pieces of meat instead of three in the food. But while eating, my dad detected the error and gave me that piece of intelligence. Then after eating the food, he proceeded to the woman’s place and paid for the extra meat. As a nine-year-old or thereabouts, I thought that the mistake was a happy one and told him he should not bother since we had not asked the woman to make a mistake. But he insisted that he would rather die than eat what he would not pay for.

What I am today is due to my faith, but I remember shunning many things in life after imagining what my father would say. For instance, he used to insist that we should return any lost money we found on the road to that exact spot! Many years later, in Ondo town, I returned via taxi to a restaurant in Sabo from my residence in Odosida to pay for food that I had eaten but had honestly forgotten to pay for. I will never forget what one of the people eating in the restaurant said: ‘Ah, this one is a man of God!’

I am not trying to suggest that my father was an angel – he was categorically not – but he taught us to be honest. Actually, that’s what most of our parents were like. But what are we teaching our own children? Do you think the criminals we have referenced in this piece had good upbringing? Many parents today act like common criminals: they lie, rob and cheat others with Luciferic fervor, then wonder that their children have become crooks.

Today in many markets, if you buy fish and ask the seller to cut it for you, you will discover when you get home that it is not complete. People steal and cheat and call it business. Why won’t their future pay for their present?

Enugu State Governor, Dr Peter Mbah, has inaugurated a 29-member committee to implement the Enugu State Climate Policy and Action Plan (ESCPAP), marking another decisive step in the state’s climate leadership journey.

Inaugurating the committee on Friday at the Government House, Enugu, Mbah said the initiative was in demonstration of the administration’s unwavering commitment to tackling the global climate crisis through local solutions and sustainable development strategies.

According to the governor, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof Chidiebere Onyia, the ESCPAP, which was launched on March 17, 2025, provides a comprehensive framework to promote low-carbon economic growth, cut greenhouse gas emissions, and build resilience against climate impacts.

‘This plan positions Enugu as a leading subnational player in climate governance and sustainability across Africa,’ he said.

The governor explained that the newly inaugurated committee would provide strategic oversight, coordination, and technical guidance for the effective implementation of the policy, adding that ‘The committee will ensure the successful delivery of climate mitigation, adaptation, finance mobilisation, and monitoring in line with state, national, and global climate commitments.’

Outlining its major responsibilities, Mbah said the committee would drive sectoral coordination across all relevant ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs); strengthen climate governance; mobilise climate finance through green bonds, carbon markets, and development partnerships; and monitor progress through an established results-based framework.

‘Under mitigation, the committee will promote renewable energy, energy efficiency, low-carbon transport systems such as electric and CNG vehicles, sustainable waste management, afforestation, and climate-smart agriculture.

‘For adaptation and resilience, the committee will undertake vulnerability assessments, develop local adaptation plans, and implement nature-based solutions for erosion and flood control. It will also promote climate-smart infrastructure, clean cooking technologies, and resilient livelihoods in communities.

‘On governance and inclusion, the committee will mainstream climate actions across state policies, ensuring the integration of gender, youth, and disability considerations. It will also intensify climate education, capacity building, and public awareness programmes,’ he further stressed.

Governor Mbah maintained that that the committee had been mandated to develop a comprehensive Climate Finance Plan, attract domestic and international funding, and publish its annual progress reports for transparency, accountability and evaluation.

While stating that the committee would brief the State Executive Council quarterly and submit an annual progress report to his office, he urged members to demonstrate professionalism, integrity, transparency, and inclusivity, describing the committee as ‘a key mechanism for translating Enugu’s climate vision into tangible action.’

Responding on behalf of the committee, the Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change thanked the governor for the trust reposed in them and pledged that the team would work diligently to deliver meaningful, measurable outcomes for the state.

The 29-member team is chaired by the SSG, with the Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change, Prof. Sam Ugwu, and the Commissioner for Finance, Dr. Nathaniel Urama, serving as first and second vice chairmen, while the Senior Policy Adviser to the Governor on Climate Policy and Sustainable Development, Prof Chukwumerije Okereke, serves as secretary.

Other members include representatives of key MDAs-such as Environment, Energy, Agriculture, Transport, Finance, and Health-alongside academics, civil society groups, youth and women representatives, traditional leaders, and climate finance experts.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors’ Forum has said it does not control or interfere with the personal decisions of its members who choose to defect to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

It explained that at best, a governor intent on leaving the party could only be advised to reconsider their position, adding that where such intervention failed, the forum would not prevent the defection.

The Chairman of the Forum and Governor of Bauchi State, Senator Bala Mohammed, made the clarification in Abuja on Saturday amid reports that the Governor of Enugu State, Mr Peter Mbah, planned to join the APC.

Mbah, who also serves as the Secretary of the PDP’s National Convention Organising Committee (NCOC) for its forthcoming November 15 Ibadan convention, is expected to be formally received by the APC on Tuesday next week, a move already widely publicised by the ruling party.

However, the Enugu governor has not personally made any official statement regarding the defection.

Mohammed noted that while the PDP remained resolute in its determination to reclaim power from the APC in 2027, the forum would continue to work with members committed to the project but would not stand in the way of those choosing to leave.

The Bauchi governor, who also chairs the Media and Communication Sub-Committee for the convention, emphasised that it would be difficult to ‘determine the decisions or actions’ of any governor.

He stated, ‘If you ask me whether I’m concerned about our governors leaving for APC, I am more than concerned. But leadership is a burden. As a leader of a group of equal status, I cannot determine the decisions or inactions of my colleagues, but certainly, a lot of work is being done behind the scenes.’

He continued, ‘I cannot say that my colleagues are wrong; they are free to do whatever they choose. But I have been advising them that even those who left are not finding it easier because most of the people at the grassroots level are PDP and are not happy with the defections.

‘Sometimes it is done because of permutations and calculations. I will not denigrate or speak negatively about my colleagues.’

Mohammed explained that what the PDP and its stakeholders would strongly oppose was any attempt by a defecting member to demarket the party or damage its reputation before leaving.

The governor also dismissed speculation that he, too, planned to defect.

‘For me, I am assuring you that I am not going anywhere. I am in PDP, my state is PDP and Nigeria is PDP.

‘What I don’t like is for you to demarket the PDP. Just go if you want to go.

‘I am sure we are still going to come up with a new set of leaders in 2027 to address all the challenges,’ he added.

Speaking specifically about Governor Mbah, the Bauchi governor said he had yet to communicate any defection plans to the Governors’ Forum.

‘Actually, governor Mbah has not told us his position. It is a personal decision. We cannot remove his picture before he leaves. When he leaves, we will replace him with another person. Up till now, he has not told me he’s leaving.

‘I have discussed this issue with him separately, and he has given me assurances. He is a governor like me. I respect him and his decisions. If he goes, we will replace him,’ he said.

Addressing PDP reporters at the Legacy House, Abuja, where his committee was inaugurated, Mohammed also spoke about the purported plan to draft former President Goodluck Jonathan into the 2027 presidential race with him (Mohammed) as a running mate.

He described the Jonathan speculation as part of the ‘permutations that make the PDP thick’ and affirmed that it reflected the enduring interest Nigerians still had in the party.

The governor noted that several names, including Peter Obi, Rabiu Kwankwaso, and himself, had been mentioned, adding that such developments showed that Nigerians still loved the PDP and wished it well.

Mohammed, who said he was ready to serve in any capacity within the party, observed that the most significant message emerging from the ongoing permutations ‘is that we have removed personal interests. We are united and will come up with leadership that will be the best choice for Nigerians to put in Aso Rock, inshallah.’

The Media and Communication Sub-Committee is primarily responsible for publicity for the Ibadan convention. The National Publicity Secretary of the PDP, Honourable Debo Ologunagba, serves as the Secretary of the committee.

On Saturday, the committee was further divided into five additional sub-committees – Content Development, Print Media, Electronic Media, Social Media, and Foreign Media – to simplify its assignments.

All sub-committees are to report to Governor Mohammed, as the party charged members with the task of promoting the PDP by rekindling in voters the ‘sweet memories’ of its years in power between 1999 and 2015.

‘We have to change governance entirely as a country. We, as Nigerians, have suffered under the APC.

‘Since we left office in 2015, nobody took over; what we have is a vacuum in Nigeria. We have to work and sensitise Nigerians,’ Mohammed charged the members.

Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, on Friday, expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the establishment of Police Detective College in Bende, Abia State.

The appreciation followed the signing into law of the bill to provide a legal framework to regularise the existing police training institutions and for the establishment of new ones sponsored by the Chairman, Senate Committee on Police Affairs, Senator Abdulhamid Mallam-Madori in the Senate.

Kalu, who lamented that Abia does not have one, lobbied extensively for the State to be included in the list of new institutions, as it was initially excluded.

While the Senate passed the Bill on March 5, 2025, the House approved it on May 7, 2025.

The Deputy Speaker thanked the sponsor of the bill, the Senate, and his colleagues in the House for their support.

The establishment of the Police Detective College in Bende is expected to enhance security in Abia State and the broader South East region, demonstrating Kalu’s commitment to the development and security of his people.