Hello and welcome! In today’s trending news stories;Â
1. The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has pledged to resign if former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, is not prosecuted. Speaking at the EFCC Headquarters in Abuja, Olukoyede affirmed his commitment to see Bello’s prosecution through. EFCC Chairman Olukoyede disclosed that former Kogi Governor Yahaya Bello withdrew $720,000 from the state’s funds to prepay his child’s school fees. Olukoyede criticized this during a media interaction in Abuja, emphasizing the impropriety of using public funds for personal purposes. He clarified that the investigation against Bello was inherited, not initiated by him. The EFCC seeks to arraign Bello on 19 counts including money laundering and misappropriation of funds amounting to N80.2 billion. The EFCC has served a copy of the charge sheet to Bello and his lawyer following his absence in court, was declared wanted by the EFCC. Meanwhile, the EFCC, responding to allegations of disobeying a court order regarding Bello’s arrest, clarified that the order obtained by Bello didn’t invalidate the Federal High Court’s arrest warrant.
2. The Kaduna State House of Assembly has formed a 13-member ad-hoc committee to probe financial transactions, loans, grants, and project execution during the tenure of former Governor Nasir El-Rufai. The motion was initiated by Hon. Yusuf Mugu, representing Kaura constituency, during a plenary session presided over by Speaker Hon. Yusuf Dahiru Liman. The committee has been tasked with inviting relevant stakeholders for questioning and investigation.
3. Rice prices in major markets in Nigeria have dropped by 20-30% within two months, providing relief for households amid rising food inflation. A 50kg bag of rice now costs between N50,000 and N65,000, down from N88,000 in February. Both Nigerian and foreign rice are selling for less than N70,000 per 50kg in some markets. The price reduction is attributed to factors such as the strengthening of the Naira in the foreign exchange market and an increase in the number of players in the rice processing industry. However, there are concerns that the price reduction may not be sustained if inflation rates remain high. Experts suggest that a stable electricity supply and government support for local farmers are necessary to ensure continued price reduction in the rice market.
4. A Dana Air aircraft experienced a runway incursion while landing at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos from Abuja. The incident occurred around 10:30 a.m. at the domestic wing of the airport. Fortunately, there were no casualties reported. Passengers disembarked safely, and the airline confirmed that all 83 passengers and crew were unharmed. Dana Air stated that the incident has been reported to the Accident Investigation Bureau and the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority for investigation. The aircraft involved has been grounded for further examination, and the airline emphasized its commitment to passenger safety.
5. Arsenal blatantly defeated Chelsea 5-0 in Tuesday’s match, establishing themselves as top contenders for the Premier League title. Kai Havertz and Ben White were the stars, each scoring twice in a dominant second half; with the team capitalizing on defensive errors from Chelsea. The victory put Arsenal three points at the top, ahead of Liverpool, and four points at Manchester City. The loss was a major setback for their European aspirations and marked their heaviest defeat in a London derby since 1986.
6. Human rights activist Deji Adeyanju has given Lead British International School in Abuja a 48-hour ultimatum to discipline students who bullied Miss Namtira Bwala. Through his law firm, Adeyanju, and Partners, he urged the school to impose severe sanctions on the alleged bullies or face legal action. The incident, captured in viral videos, showed Bwala being physically assaulted by her classmate, Maryam Hassan. In response, the school announced a three-day closure to conduct a thorough investigation. The incident has sparked widespread outrage, leading to calls for swift action against the perpetrators. Tensions escalated when a parent confronted Maryam Hassan during a meeting, resulting in a physical altercation. The school has pledged to ensure a safe and supportive learning environment for all students, and disciplinary measures are underway while counseling is provided to the victim.
7. Nollywood mourns the loss of veteran actor Zulu Adigwe, whose death was announced on social media by movie producer Stanley Nwoko. Adigwe’s passing comes shortly after the tragic boat accident that claimed the lives of Junior Pope and three other actors. Known for his fatherly roles in Nollywood, Adigwe gained fame for his portrayal of Mr. B in “Basi and Company” and appeared in the successful movie “Living in Bondage: Breaking Free.”
