April 2025 | Page 22 of 45

Ondo Police Clear Oluremi Tinubu’s Convoy in Girl’s Death, Hunt Hit-and-Run Driver

Our Reporters1 month ago1 month ago03 mins

The Ondo State Police Command has officially cleared the convoy of Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, of any involvement in a tragic car accident that led to the death of a seven-year-old girl in Akure, the state capital. In a press statement e-signed on Thursday by the Command’s PPRO, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka Olushola and received by the National Association of Online Security News Publishers, NAOSNP, said investigations and eyewitness testimonies confirmed that the First Lady’s convoy was not linked to the incident. This clarification comes amid circulating reports on social media alleging that a vehicle from Sen. Tinubu’s convoy was responsible for the child’s death. However, the police have firmly dismissed those claims, describing them as unfounded and misleading. “Eyewitness accounts and preliminary investigations conducted by the Ondo State Police Command have confirmed that the incident was caused by a hit-and-run driver operating an unregistered white Lexus vehicle — not by any vehicle belonging to or associated with the First Lady’s convoy,” the statement said. According to the police, the fatal incident occurred around the Oba Ile area of Akure. A witness reportedly chased the fleeing Lexus driver on a motorcycle in an attempt to track the vehicle immediately after the crash. This account, the statement noted, was corroborated by multiple individuals at the scene, including the parents of the deceased child. “The Commissioner of Police, Ondo State Command, was personally present and met with the grieving family to ensure a full and transparent investigation. At no point was the First Lady’s convoy involved in this tragedy,” Ayanlade added. The police extended their condolences to the bereaved family and assured the public that efforts were ongoing to apprehend the driver responsible for the hit-and-run. They also appealed to the public to assist with any information that could help locate the suspect. “We urge anyone with any useful information to please come forward or report to the nearest police station or security post,” the statement concluded.

Business

Olam Agri Introduces Crown Thick Spaghetti: A Delicious New Twist on a Classic Favourite

Our Reporters1 month ago1 month ago04 mins

Abuja, Nigeria – April 2025 – Crown Flour Mill (CFM) Limited, the wheat milling and pasta business of Olam Agri in Nigeria, has unveiled a new addition to its product range—Crown Thick Spaghetti—at a vibrant launch event held in Abuja on April 16, 2025. Designed to meet the yearnings of the Nigerian consumers for Thick Strand size spaghetti, the new Crown Thick Spaghetti was enthusiastically received by distributors in attendance, who played a crucial role in its successful launch. The event offered a platform for meaningful engagement, reflecting CFM’s strong network and commitment to delivering food products that meet the evolving tastes of Nigerian consumers. Backed by Olam Agri in Nigeria’s investments in local wheat farming through initiatives like Seeds for the Future, CFM has become a trusted name in providing high-quality, fortified food options that are both nutritious and affordable. The launch of Crown Thick Spaghetti further strengthens its diverse pasta portfolio and its role in supporting food security in Nigeria. “This is more than just a product launch,” said Siddharth Suri, Vice President and Business Head at Crown Flour Mill. “We are unveiling new possibilities. this launch represents our commitment to progress, to better serve our communities, and to equip our partners with tools that can help grow their business and satisfy the ever-evolving needs of our customers. Crown Thick Spaghetti continues our tradition of innovation and excellence in food manufacturing.” Bola Adeniji, General Manager and Head of Marketing at Olam Agri in Nigeria, highlighted the product’s unique qualities: “Crown Thick Spaghetti was developed with versatility in mind—perfect for rich sauces or local favourites like Jollof spaghetti, stir fry, etc. It fills a gap in the market, and early feedback from consumer trials has been overwhelmingly positive.” The event also featured popular Northern music star and brand ambassador Ali Jita, who praised the brand’s consistency and wide availability: “CFM products are always of high quality, healthy, and easy to find. This new spaghetti takes things up a notch—it’s non sticky, filling and made with the Nigerian consumer in mind. I’m proud to be associated with it.” Alhaji Umar Buba, Alhaji Murtala Abdullahi, and Alhaji Namadi Inumu were part of the distributors present at the launch. They commended CFM for its strong partnerships and market-focused strategies.

30 Signs of a Scam – Stay Alert! ⚠️

Our Reporters1 month ago1 month ago03 mins

Final Advice::If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Scammers prey on emotions, offering fake quick fixes or huge returns. Always verify, ask questions, and never give in to pressure.Your security matters more than any offer! Stay alert, trust your instincts, and don’t hesitate to say NO.

Maguire’s Extra-Time Header Seals Stunning 5-4 Win as Man Utd Complete Epic Europa League Comeback

Our Reporters1 month ago1 month ago01 mins

Manchester United pulled off one of the most dramatic comebacks in European football history, defeating Lyon 5-4 at Old Trafford to secure a 7-6 aggregate win in the Europa League quarter-final. United initially took control with a 2-0 lead but were stunned as Lyon fought back to go 4-2 up midway through the second half of extra time, leaving the home side on the brink of elimination. However, in a thrilling final push, United roared back with three quick goals, capped off by Harry Maguire’s decisive header that sealed the victory. The dramatic turnaround sent the crowd into a frenzy and booked United’s place in the semi-finals, keeping their European hopes alive in unforgettable fashion.

No Condom, No Conversation: A Silent Crisis in Our Communities

Our Reporters1 month ago1 month ago02 mins

This is just a candid observation, not meant to judge or offend anyone. I recently had casual conversations with 40 women, and only about 10 confirmed they use condoms. The rest either smiled or admitted they don’t. This, to me, reflects part of the reason behind the increasing rate of single motherhood in society. I’m not blaming anyone—life happens, and things don’t always go as planned. But if I could offer any advice, it’s this: use protection. Not just to prevent unwanted pregnancies, but to avoid the emotional and financial strain that can come with raising a child alone. I’ve personally had situations where women were okay with unprotected sex if I didn’t bring it up—which honestly worries me. It’s not about being overly cautious, just responsible. Currently, I’m working in a slum area, and I see young single mothers with undernourished children. When asked about the fathers, many say they’re long gone. A simple condom might’ve changed that story. I’m not pointing fingers—just encouraging awareness. These days, some ladies are willing to go raw for quick money, ignoring the consequences. Let’s talk more openly about this. Protection is not just smart—it’s survival.

Yahaya Bello Petitions IGP, Demands Arrest and Apology from Senator Natasha Over Alleged Defamation

Our Reporters1 month ago1 month ago03 mins

Former Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, has petitioned the Inspector General of Police (IGP) over what he describes as defamatory statements made against him by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of the Kogi Central District. Bello, through his lawyer N.A. Abubakar, urged the police to invite the senator to substantiate her allegations with credible evidence. In the absence of such evidence, Bello called for her arrest and prosecution under laws related to criminal defamation, incitement of public disturbance, and dissemination of false information that could threaten public peace. In addition to the petition to the IGP, Bello also sent a formal letter to Akpoti-Uduaghan through another legal representative, R.O. Balogun. The letter demanded that she issue a public retraction and apology for the alleged defamatory remarks. Bello warned that failure to comply would result in legal action. The former governor insists that the senator made the offending statements during a homecoming event held on April 1, 2025, in Okehi Local Government Area, where she allegedly accused him of plotting an assassination. According to Bello, the accusations not only defamed him but also violated Section 24(1)(b) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc.) Act, 2015. He described the statements as malicious and harmful, particularly the claim that he was involved in a murder plot disguised as mob or ethnic violence. Bello maintains that such allegations are not only false but also politically motivated and intended to damage his image. The former governor’s legal team argues that Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s actions have had far-reaching consequences. They claim she has painted Bello as a violent political figure, incited public distrust, and stirred ethnic tension within Ebiraland and the wider Kogi Central region. Furthermore, they believe she has misused her parliamentary position to spread unverified claims in a public and politically sensitive environment, thereby jeopardizing Bello’s political standing and personal safety.

Zubairu Picks Bameyi, Jephta, Arierhi, 21 Others for U20 Africa Cup of Nations

Our Reporters1 month ago1 month ago03 mins

Head Coach Aliyu Zubairu has selected first-choice goalkeeper Ifeanyi Harcourt, defender and captain Daniel Bameyi, midfielder Sulaiman Alabi Jojo and forward Kparobo Arierhi among a squad of 24 for this year’s Africa U20 Cup of Nations taking place in Egypt. The tournament gets underway in 10 days. Defenders Adamu Maigari and Emmanuel Chukwu (based in Germany), midfielders Caleb Ochedikwu (based in Croatia) and Simon Cletus, and forwards Clinton Jephta, Divine Oliseh and Precious Benjamin (based in Germany) are also picked. The seven-time African champions and two-time World Cup runners-up will depart the shores of Nigeria for Egypt on Sunday, where they are expected to play a couple of friendly matches before their opening match of the competition against Tunisia in Cairo on Thursday, 1st May. Three days after the clash with the Tunisians, the Flying Eagles will take the pitch against Morocco (also in Cairo) before rounding off their group phase experience against Kenya on Wednesday, 7th May. All four semi-finalists at the tournament in Egypt will fly Africa’s flag at this year’s FIFA U20 World Cup in Chile, 27th September – 19th October. 24 FLYING EAGLES FOR EGYPT 2025: Goalkeepers: Ifeanyi Ebenezer Harcourt (Sporting Lagos); Rufai Abubakar (Mavlon FC); Soliu Ajia Yakub (FK Novi Pazar, Serbia) Defenders: Adamu Maigari (El-Kanemi Warriors); Odinaka Okoro (Sporting Lagos); Daniel Bameyi (Bayelsa United); Emmanuel Chukwu (TSG 1899 Hoffenheim, Germany); Chigozie Michael Ihejiofor (Katsina United) Midfielders: Caleb Ochedikwu (NK Uljanik Pula, Croatia); Israel Isaac Ayuma (NK Istra, Croatia); Simon Cletus (Mavlon FC); Sulaiman Alabi Jojo (El-Kanemi Warriors); Auwal Ibrahim (Akwa United); Shafiu Adamu Duguri (Wikki Tourists) Forwards: Precious Benjamin (TSG 1899 Hoffenheim, Germany); Ezekiel Anthony Kpangu (Inspire FC); Divine Oliseh (Forster Academy); Clinton Jephta (Enyimba FC); Bidemi Amole (Real Sapphire FC); Tahir Maigana (Wireless FC); Theophilus Mendos Rickson (Niger Tornadoes); Kparobo Nathaniel Arierhi (Lillestrom SK, Norway); Matthew Kingsley (Kings FC); Yushau Armiyau (Katsina United)

Peter Obi’s Convoy: Teenager Regains Freedom, Demands N100m Compensation

Our Reporters1 month ago1 month ago07 mins

Quadri Alabi, a young Lagosian whose viral video supporting Peter Obi during the 2023 election campaign has regained freedom. The teenager, who sttod in front of Labour Party’s candidate convoy was freedd from Kirikiri months after being framed forarmed robbery. Barrister Inibehe Effiong who is the lead counsel in Quadri’s case said; “We are excited to announce that Quadri Yusuf Alabi, the 17-year old teenager who gained fame during the 2023 elections after he spontaneously jumped and stood in front of the convoy of the presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Mr. PeterObi has been freed by the court today, 17th April, 2025. “Our client, Quadri was abducted by two ‘Area Boys’ who are notoriously known in the community as Lege and Baba Waris close to his family residence at Amukoko, Ajeromi-Ifelodun Local Government Area and dumped at the Amukoko Divisional Police Headquarters (Pako Police Station) in Lagos State. “Quadri was returning from work when he was grabbed by the duo, who along with other jealous and entitled Area Boys in the community, have been harassing him and threatening to deal with him since 2023 for not giving them ‘their share’ of donations gifted him during the last elections period. “Quadri’s family informed us that the Baale of the community equally pressured them to buy a cow and rice and cook for the community to appease the Area Boys. “The abductors initially told the officers at Amukoko Police Station that our client was involved in street fighting. “To the consternation of Quadri and his family, the police on 26th January, 2025 took Quadri before a Magistrate in Apapa, and obtained an order remanding him at the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Kirikiri on a trumped-up charge of armed robbery. “The police fraudulently joined Quadri with four strange adults who had no form of connection or relationship whatsoever with him and claimed that the four strange men were his case mates. “As part of the diabolical frame-up of our client, the officers at Amukoko Police Station also misrepresented his age to be 18, knowing that disclosing his actual age would likely raise eyebrows. “When we were briefed by Quadri’s mother a week ago, after the matter was brought to public attention by Ms. Hassana Nurudeen, the Co-founder of Ray of Hope Prison Outreach (@Hausa_girl), we swiftly escalated the case and took necessary steps towards securing his freedom. “At the Court today, the presiding Magistrate, His Honour, A. O. Olorunfemi (Mrs.), confirmed that the legal advice issued by the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), of the Ministry of Justice, Lagos State, Dr. Babajide Martins showed that there was no evidence to substantiate the allegation of armed robbery against Quadri. “In his Legal Advice, the DPP recommended the non-prosecution of Quadri. Thus, the presiding Magistrate discharged him and he was accordingly freed. “We commend the DPP for standing by the truth in this matter. We demand that the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, and the Inspector General of Police, should as a matter of urgency, remove the DPO of Amukoko Divisional Headquarters and subject him to orderly room trial along with the IPO, one Inspector Odigbe Samuel, and other officers who participated in this evil, sinister, oppressive, and corrupt scheme of framing-up a teenager for armed robbery at the behest of rogue ‘Area Boys’. “We demand that the Nigeria Police Force should pay the sum of One Hundred Million Naira (N100,000,000.00) to our client as compensation. “Also, we also demand a public apology from the police. “If the above three remedial demands are not fully complied with immediately, we shall initiate legal actions to seek redress. “Quadri’s case is a painful example of the putrefying corruption, monstrous impunity, and pervasive injustice in the Nigeria Police Force. “There are many Quadris languishing in detention centres across Nigeria because of the unbridled criminality, lawlessness, and lack of accountability in the Police institution and the weakness of the justice system. “History will vindicate the just.”