Category: Local

  The Kwara State Government has dismissed reports claiming that nine local government areas in the state are under siege by bandits, describing the allegations as “totally false and reckless.” In a statement on Monday, the government said no part of Kwara is currently under the control or threat of bandits, contrary to viral claims circulating on social media. “We wish to alert the public to some reckless claims that nine local government areas of Kwara State are under siege by bandits. This is totally false. No local government area is under siege in the state,” the statement read. The government admitted that there have been isolated security challenges in some areas but said they do not justify the “wicked escalation and fake news” allegedly promoted by political opponents within and outside the state. It accused certain “opposition elements” of deliberately spreading fear and misinformation, referring to them as “the online promoters and equivalence of bandits.” “These individuals instill fear in the populace through fake news such as the unfounded claim of nine LGAs being under siege and alleged movements of gunmen in parts of Asa Local Government Area,” it added. The statement further expressed disappointment that former Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, allegedly shared the false report on his social media platforms. “We regretfully observe that Mr. Peter Obi has lent his social media handles to spreading such fake news. This is not expected from him as a statesman. We request Mr. Peter Obi to bring down the post as it is totally false and inappropriate,” the government said. Kwara authorities urged citizens to desist from spreading unverified information capable of causing panic and undermining the efforts of security agencies. “This irresponsible behaviour only makes things harder for our security forces, who already have enough on their plates,” the statement concluded.

Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court, Apo, Abuja, on Monday ordered the remand of Abuja-based lawyer, Victor Giwa, in police custody following his arrest in Lagos. Giwa was apprehended in compliance with a bench warrant issued by the court after he failed to appear for arraignment on charges of forgery and impersonation. The warrant, issued on September 15, 2025, also named a second defendant, Ibitade Bukola, who remains at large. At Monday’s hearing, the prosecution, led by Theophilus Silas, informed the court that efforts are ongoing to arrest Bukola before the next adjourned date. Giwa Opposes Remand, Cites Health Concerns Representing himself, Giwa strongly opposed the prosecution’s application to remand him under Sections 293 and 43(4) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA). He argued that the cited legal provisions did not apply to his situation, and emphasized that he had previously informed the court of his absence through a formal letter. “I am a minister in the temple of justice. I will never undermine the court,” Giwa said. “Due to health issues, I have been advised to avoid stress to prevent a stroke. I passionately appeal to be granted bail so I can recover and be strong enough for trial.” Giwa insisted that the prosecution’s request for an abridged hearing date came as a surprise and accused them of ambushing the defense. He also noted that since the charges are joint, arraignment could not proceed without the second defendant present. Judge Denies Oral Bail Plea Justice Onwuegbuzie noted that as a legal practitioner, Giwa should have filed a formal bail application rather than making an oral plea. “A written bail application is required. In the absence of that, the defendant is remanded in police custody,” the judge ruled. The matter was adjourned to October 8, 2025, for further proceedings.