Friday Morning Summary of Key Nigerian News Headlines
Good morning! Below are the top stories making headlines in Nigerian newspapers today:
Lagos Assembly Crisis Deepens: Speaker Obasa Defies Opposition
The leadership battle within the Lagos State House of Assembly continues as embattled Speaker Mudasiru Obasa has refused to relinquish his position despite strong opposition. Some members of the House, backing Mojisola Meranda, have insisted that she should retain the speakership, citing a February 17 vote of confidence. Obasa, however, arrived at the Assembly complex Thursday morning under heavy security escort, supported by former principal officers and close allies.
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Sultan of Sokoto Urges Muslims to Look for Ramadan Crescent
The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, in his capacity as President General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), has urged Muslims across the country to begin the search for the new moon marking the beginning of Ramadan 1446 AH. This announcement comes as Nigeria prepares for the start of the Islamic holy month, which could commence as early as Friday.
Lagos Lawmakers Stand Firm in Speaker Meranda’s Support
The crisis in the Lagos State House of Assembly has seen another twist as 36 lawmakers loyal to Mojisola Meranda reaffirmed their support for her leadership, declaring her the legitimate Speaker of the House. Despite Obasa’s controversial return to the Assembly, these members, who convened at the Assembly gardens, insist that Meranda’s removal of Obasa was valid and final, citing the earlier vote of confidence from February 17.
Kano Government Demands Removal of Emir Aminu Ado Bayero
Tensions have escalated in Kano State as the state government has called for the removal of Emir Aminu Ado Bayero from Nasarawa Palace. The state claims that certain individuals are using the emir’s presence in the palace to stoke unrest. Governor Abdullahi Ganduje’s administration is pushing for his relocation to restore peace and stability in the region.
Power Minister Reveals N4 Trillion Subsidy Debt
Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, has disclosed that the federal government owes electricity generation and distribution companies more than N4 trillion in subsidies. Speaking at the Public Presentation of the National Integrated Electricity Policy and Nigeria Integrated Resource Plan in Abuja, Adelabu acknowledged the immense financial burden this debt places on the energy sector.
Kaduna Commissioner Criticizes El-Rufai’s Remarks
The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs in Kaduna, Alhaji Sadiq Mamman Lagos, has condemned former Governor Nasir El-Rufai’s recent comments against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Uba Sani. Lagos emphasized that the future of the state in 2027 is not for El-Rufai to decide, but rather a matter for divine intervention, signaling a sharp rebuke of the former Governor’s remarks.
Kidnappers Demand N40 Million for Abducted University Students
The ongoing abduction crisis continues to plague the country, with kidnappers demanding a ransom of N40 million for the release of female students from Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University, Makurdi (JoSTUM). The families of the victims have been contacted by the abductors, who are pressing for the large sum in exchange for the students’ freedom.
EFCC Arrests 19 Internet Fraudsters in Benin City
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested 19 suspected internet fraudsters in Benin City, Edo State, following credible intelligence. The suspects were detained across various locations within the city, and the EFCC spokesman, Dele Oyewale, confirmed that the arrests were part of the commission’s ongoing efforts to curb online financial crimes.
Imo Police Arrest Suspects in Child Trafficking Ring
The Imo State Police Command has made significant strides in tackling child trafficking, arresting two individuals connected to separate trafficking cases. The suspects were apprehended despite attempting to bribe police officers with N1 million to secure their release. Police spokesperson DSP Henry Okoye highlighted the force’s commitment to fighting child exploitation.
Lecturer Sentenced to Life for Raping Student
In a landmark ruling, an Ikeja Special Offences and Domestic Violence Court has sentenced Kolawole Muyiwa, a part-time lecturer at Adeniran Ogunsanya College of Education, to life imprisonment for the rape of a student. Justice Rahman Oshodi ruled that the prosecution had proven the case of defilement beyond a reasonable doubt, ensuring that Muyiwa would spend the rest of his life behind bars for his crime.
These stories highlight the political turbulence, legal challenges, and social issues currently unfolding across Nigeria. From ongoing political clashes in Lagos to security concerns in various states, these developments underscore the complex landscape facing the nation.
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Friday Morning Summary of Key Nigerian News Headlines