Politics |

May 13, 2024

May 13, 2024May 13, 2024 IFMNEWS

Minister Wike Acknowledges Error in Political Support: Promises Correction

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, openly acknowledged his error in supporting Siminalayi Fubara as his successor as the governor of Rivers State. Speaking at an event in Ogu/Bolo Local Government Area of Rivers State on Saturday, Wike apologized to the people of the state for his misjudgment, recognizing that as a human being, he is prone to making mistakes. He assured the people that he would rectify his mistake in due course.

Wike emphasized the importance of acknowledging and learning from one's mistakes, urging forgiveness from those affected by his error in judgment. He expressed humility in admitting his fallibility and pledged to correct the situation at the right time.

Addressing recent comments made by Governor Fubara regarding his gratitude towards Wike's support, Wike clarified that he never expected anyone to worship him, as he is not divine. However, he emphasized the importance of politicians showing gratitude to those who have supported them, rather than displaying ingratitude.

The strained relationship between Governor Fubara and Wike, his former political mentor, has led to political tensions in the state. Wike's public admission of his mistake and commitment to rectify it may contribute to easing the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State.

May 13, 2024

May 13, 2024 IFMNEWS

Court Convicts Mother Of Five For Forging Late Abba Kyari’s Signature

A Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja has convicted Mrs. Ramat Mba, a mother of five, of forging the signature of the late Abba Kyari, former Chief of Staff to President Muhammadu Buhari. The presiding judge, Justice Ibrahim Mohammad, postponed her sentencing to Thursday, May 16, 2024, and ordered her detention at the Suleja Correctional Centre in the interim.

Mrs. Mba was brought to trial by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) in June 2022, facing a 5-count charge of cheating, fraud, and forgery under Section 13 of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act 200 and sections of the Penal Code governing Northern Nigeria.

One specific charge accused Mrs. Mba of deceitfully obtaining N700,000 from Mr. Ismail Adewole Oladipupo, a job seeker, by falsely promising him employment at the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), claiming the money was needed for securing the position.

During the trial, ICPC Prosecutor Hamza Sani presented evidence showing Mrs. Mba had falsely promised employment at various government agencies, including the Federal Inland Revenue Services (FIRS) and the ICPC itself. She also forged official letterhead and the signature of Abba Kyari in a letter soliciting the ICPC to hire three individuals. This letter was contradicted by another from Kyari’s office, denying any authorization of such requests.

Ultimately, Justice Mohammad convicted Mrs. Mba on four of the five counts related to cheating and forgery but acquitted her on a count involving felony.

May 10, 2024

May 10, 2024May 10, 2024 IFMNEWS

Court Refuses to Lift Arrest Order for Former Governor Yahaya Bello

Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja has rejected former Kogi State governor Yahaya Bello's plea to withdraw the arrest warrant issued against him by the court. The judge stated that Bello's repeated failure to appear for arraignment in a criminal case constituted contempt of court and thus did not warrant any leniency.

In his ruling delivered on Friday regarding Bello's application to cancel the arrest warrant, the court emphasized that Bello's persistent absence demonstrated a lack of respect for the judicial process. The judge underscored that Bello could not expect the court to accommodate his disregard for legal proceedings. The court dismissed Bello's request because he could not dictate terms to the court from the comfort of his home and reiterated that he must appear for arraignment before any further actions could be taken.

Furthermore, the judge rejected Bello's argument challenging the jurisdiction of the Federal High Court to hear the criminal charges against him. Justice Nwite emphasized that Bello must first present himself for arraignment and enter a plea before addressing any jurisdictional issues. Bello had contended on April 23 that the arrest warrant was unnecessary since his lead counsel had accepted service of the criminal charges on his behalf. However, the court's decision underscores the importance of Bello's personal appearance for arraignment before any legal proceedings can proceed.

May 9, 2024

May 9, 2024May 9, 2024 IFMNEWS

House of Representatives Suspends Enforcement of Cybersecurity Tax

On Thursday, the House of Representatives instructed the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to cease the enforcement of the cybercrime levy, aligning with the Cybercrime Act's provisions. This decision came after Minority Leader Kingsley Chinda, representing PDP Rivers, presented a motion of urgent public importance.

Chinda highlighted Section 44 (2a) of the Cybercrime Act, which specifies that GSM and telecom companies, internet providers, banks, financial institutions, insurance companies, and stock exchanges are liable to pay the prescribed fees. He expressed concerns over the apprehension stirred by the CBN's circular, suggesting that it implied Nigerians were to bear the levy's burden amidst ongoing economic challenges, including rising petroleum prices.

Consequently, the House urged the CBN to retract its initial circular on levy enforcement immediately and issue a new circular consistent with the Cybercrime Act's provisions.

On Air Now:

Category: Politics

USEFUL LINKS

DOWNLOAD OUR APP

FOLLOW US

queue

Watch Live