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October 31, 2024

October 31, 2024 IFMNEWS

TCN Restores Power Supply to Several Northern States

The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has successfully restored bulk power supply through its 330kV Ugwuaji-Apir transmission line 1 as of 4:56 pm on Wednesday, following repairs on a vandalized section. This update was shared in a statement by TCN spokesperson Ndidi Mbah.

With the restoration of this line, the Apir-Lafia 330kV transmission line 2 is now fully operational, enabling power supply to Lafia, Makurdi, Jos, Kaduna, Kano, Bauchi, and Gombe States. TCN's engineering team is also set to begin work on restoring the second 330kV transmission line, with all required materials ready. Work on this line will start as soon as the site is secured for personnel safety.

In the meantime, teams of linesmen will re-inspect the 330kV line 2 to ensure no additional sections are impacted as repairs continue. "We appreciate your patience and understanding as our engineers work diligently on the 330kV transmission line 2. TCN is committed to quickly restoring this line to enhance power supply to the affected regions," the statement added.

The northern region has faced power outages for over a week, initially caused by the tripping of the 330 kV transmission line between Benue and Enugu. The Shiroro-Kaduna transmission line was also impacted, affecting power in Kano, Gombe, Kebbi, Jos, Kaduna, Benue, Bauchi, Adamawa, Taraba, Borno, Kwara, Nasarawa, and Yobe States.

October 31, 2024

October 31, 2024October 31, 2024 IFMNEWS

Assault Case: Trial for Abia Representative Set for Nov 8, Granted ₦500,000 Bail

A Kuje Magistrate Court in the Federal Capital Territory has set Friday, November 8, for the hearing of charges against Alexander Ikwechegh, a House of Representatives member for Aba North and South Federal Constituency in Abia State, after granting him ₦500,000 bail.

Ikwechegh, who appeared before His Worship Abubakar Umar Sai’id on Wednesday, faces allegations of assaulting Bolt driver Stephen Abuwatseya at his residence in Abuja. He pleaded not guilty to charges, which include abuse of office, assault, and threats, as filed by Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun.

Following his plea, Ikwechegh’s counsel requested bail, which the court approved at ₦500,000 with two sureties required to reside within the court’s jurisdiction and provide utility bills as proof of address. The hearing is adjourned to November 8.

A video of the alleged assault went viral earlier, showing Ikwechegh slapping the driver repeatedly and threatening him. Civil society group Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC) condemned the incident, calling it an abuse of power and a "disgraceful" display that reflects poorly on the House of Representatives and the police.

RULAAC's Executive Director, Okechukwu Nwanguma, expressed disappointment over the lawmaker's conduct, stating it highlights a culture of impunity among politicians. He added that although the House's decision to investigate is positive, it remains uncertain whether meaningful accountability will follow. Nwanguma urged the incident to serve as a call for reforms that prioritize human rights and justice for all, emphasizing the need for accountability not just for Abuwatseya but for other victims of similar abuse.

October 30, 2024

October 30, 2024 IFMNEWS

Tinubu Appoints Oluyede As Acting Chief Of Army Staff

President Bola Tinubu has appointed Major General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede as the acting Chief of Army Staff (COAS). This was announced on Wednesday in a statement by presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, who clarified that Oluyede will serve in the role temporarily as Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, the current COAS, is receiving medical treatment abroad.

“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, has appointed Major General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede as the acting Chief of Army Staff (COAS),” the statement read.

Prior to this appointment, Oluyede was the 56th Commander of the Nigerian Army Infantry Corps based in Jaji, Kaduna. He is a seasoned officer and, along with General Lagbaja, was part of the 39th Regular Course, commissioned as a second lieutenant in 1992 with rank retroactive to 1987, and promoted to Major General in September 2020.

Throughout his career, Oluyede has held several key commands, including Platoon Commander and adjutant at 65 Battalion, Company Commander at 177 Guards Battalion, Staff Officer in the Guards Brigade, and Commandant at the Amphibious Training School. He has also served in various operations, such as the ECOMOG Mission in Liberia, Operation HARMONY IV in Bakassi, and Operation HADIN KAI in Nigeria’s North East, where he commanded the 27 Task Force Brigade.

In recognition of his distinguished service, Oluyede has been awarded honors including the Corps Medal of Honour, the Grand Service Star, and membership in the National Institute.

October 30, 2024

October 30, 2024October 30, 2024 IFM Social Media

Any Charity Involving a Camera Has an Agenda – Comedienne Tomama

Popular comedienne Tomama has addressed the way some individuals use philanthropy to mask their wrongdoing. In a recent Instagram post, she pointed out that one of the quickest ways to gain favor with Nigerians is through gift-giving.

She suggested that many people engage in philanthropic activities while ensuring these moments are captured on camera for public display. According to Tomama, when such gestures are made, it becomes challenging for the public to criticize the individual, regardless of their past actions.

She emphasized that any act of philanthropy that involves a camera is likely driven by an underlying agenda.