Rape Epidemic Must End In Ekiti, Says First Lady.

Rape Epidemic Must End In Ekiti, Says First Lady.

.....Leads Deputy Governor, Deputy Speaker, SSG And Others In Street Procession Against GBV.

Wife of the Ekiti State Governor, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji, has rallied the people of the state to join hands with the state government to put an end to rape epidemic in the state.

Dr. Oyebanji said the state government is determined to apprehend perpetrators of rape, child molestation, defilement and other forms of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and bring them to justice to serve as deterrent to others.

Speaking during a street procession in Ado Ekiti, the state capital, on Monday to mark the end of 16 Days of Activism Against GBV, Dr. Oyebanji stressed that the offence of rape now carries life sentence for any convicted offender in the state.

The First Lady was joined during the street procession by the Deputy Governor, Chief Monisade Afuye; the Deputy Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Bolaji Olagbaju and other female Assembly members; the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Habibat Adubiaro and other members of the State Executive Council.

The procession which started at the Funmilayo Olayinka Women Centre, Fajuyi, took the First Lady and other participants who carried various placards to Ereguru, Post Office Roundabout, Bisi Market, Okeyinmi, Ojumose, Okesa Market and terminated at the starting point.

Some of the placards read "Stop Rape," "Rape Is A Crime," "Teach Men To Respect "Women," "No To Domestic Violence," "Stop Gender-Based Violence," "Stand Up For Women's Rights," "We Must Join Hands To End Sexual Assault," "Say No To Female Genital Mutilation," among others.

Addressing market women, their customers, motorists, motorcyclists, passersby and other members of the public, the Governor's wife warned that failure to report crime or any attempt to cover up the crime is also punishable under the law, noting that the rally was also aimed at enlightening the people to avoid running foul of the law.

The First Lady warned men and boys to discipline themselves and refrain from engaging in sexual violence and avoid spending the rest of their lives in jail over sexual offences, as the law must take its course on anyone caught committing the crime.

She also decried the increasing rate of domestic violence warning husbands against beating their wives and wives beating their husbands noting that such could lead to loss of lives within the four walls of marriage.

While advising parents to utilize the opportunity of free education from primary to secondary school in the state, the First Lady charged them to send their wards to school and not to use them for hawking which exposes the female ones to sexual abuse.

Apart from free education in public primary and secondary schools, Dr. Oyebanji said the state government also pays West African Examinations Council (WAEC) fees for School Certificate candidates and also sponsors Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) to relieve parents of the burden of paying for their children.

She enjoined parents to be interested in the education of their children including the female ones noting that education has the capacity to set them on the path of greatness, also securing the future of the parents in their old age.

Apparently concerned about the increasing rate of sexual offences, especially rape in the state which has assumed an epidemic level, Dr. Oyebanji declared that there is no hiding place for the offenders again in the state vowing that they would be arrested and be made to face the law, no matter how long it takes.

She said: "The rate of rape, child defilement and molestation is very alarming in Ekiti State. Many of the rapists among us are people who are familiar with the victims and these include some family members living under our roof, stepfathers raping stepdaughters their wives brought in from previous marriage.

A recent report detailed the rape of a 16-year-old girl who struggled to free herself from the assailant. Shockingly, the rapist resorted to stabbing her in the chest and belly to subdue her resistance.The girl landed in the hospital as a result of the brutal attack.

" The perpetrator is still at large, but we are committed to pursuing and apprehending him to ensure justice is served. 

There is no refuge for rapists and sexual offenders among us; the law will reach them, and they will face the consequences for their crimes.

The First Lady also spoke against the practice of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) describing the practice as harmful to the girl child and no longer acceptable in our society.

While warning parents against the practice, Dr. Oyebanji said it is only the circumcision of the male children that is acceptable in the society and not that of the female children which she said exposes them to infections and other risks.

The First Lady appreciated the people of the state for their unflinching support for the Oyebanji Administration saying the government is always interested in their welfare and wellbeing and would not relent in making their lives better.

President Tinubu: The Battle To Keep Nigeria Secure Is One I Will Not Lose.

President Tinubu: The Battle To Keep Nigeria Secure Is One I Will Not Lose.

President Bola Tinubu says he will continue to work assiduously and provide the military with the necessary support to keep the troublers of the nation at bay. 

Speaking at the Chief of Army Staff Annual Conference 2023 in Maiduguri, Borno State, on Monday, the President said he has no intention of relenting or resting on his laurels in securing Nigeria, declaring that he will win the battle to keep Nigeria safe.

President Tinubu, who acknowledged the Nigerian Army's commitment to national security, asked the army to remain non-partisan but vigilant in upholding democratic principles, emphasizing their role as a guardian of constitutional order during elections.

"The professional conduct of the Armed Forces during the elections in Bayelsa, Imo and Kogi States underscores your role as a guardian of our constitutional order and democracy precepts. In this regard, the Nigerian Army must remain completely non-partisan but vigilantly pro-democracy. 

"We also note with great satisfaction the many civilian-military projects across the country, some of which will be commissioned during this Conference. 

"These projects not only bring the military and civilian population into closer affinity and mutual understanding, they also serve the practical purpose of tangibly improving the living conditions of the people," the President said.

Citing the recent procurement of new aircraft as a testament of his resolve to upgrade national defence capability, President Tinubu also affirmed his administration’s commitment to advancing the ongoing modernization process within the military, with a focus on improving mobility, communications, and offensive striking capabilities.

The President, while expressing the nation's gratitude for the service and sacrifice of the armed forces, recalled his earlier approval of N18 billion in Group Life Assurance benefits for families of fallen heroes, even as he pledged continuous government support for the welfare of serving personnel and their families.

The Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar said the President's new approach to empowering the force and enhancing intra-military collaboration has led to a substantial increase in morale for the armed forces.

"Mr. President, you are a man of your word. Your Renewed Hope agenda assured Nigerians of progress in the fight against insecurity. The men of the armed forces are more committed than ever before. They see the progress they recording. They know the damage they are inflicting on our enemies. They have high morale. Our enemies do not because of your leadership. Thank you, Mr. President," the Minister stated.

He pledged to sustain his support for the Nigerian military in the provision of infrastructure while acknowledging the unalloyed commitment of the Tinubu administration to substantial investments to enhance the operational capabilities of the military. 

The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, informed the President that ongoing military operations in different parts of the country have significantly weakened criminal elements, while checkmating farmer-herders crises in various parts of the country. 

"Notwithstanding these achievements, we recognize the importance of continuous evaluation and this conference will be instrumental in formulating long-term strategies to bolster our ability to carry out our constitutional responsibility in the year 2024," the Army Chief said.

Northern lawmakers pledge N350m to rebuild bombed Kaduna community.

Northern lawmakers pledge N350m to rebuild bombed Kaduna community.

The Northern caucus of the House of Representatives on Monday pledged N350m to assist the Federal Government in rebuilding Tudun Biri, a community in Kaduna State accidentally bombed by the Nigerian Army last week.

A bomb intended to flush out bandits from Tudun Biri, Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State, hit the wrong target, killing an estimated 120 innocent people and injuring scores of others.

On Monday, the Northern House caucus, led by Alhassan Doguwa, announced its intention to visit the area to commiserate with families and survivors.

In a statement personally signed by the Kano lawmaker, the group condemned the incident and pledged their readiness to assist the government in bringing life to normalcy in the area.

“The Northern caucus is to provide for various developmental projects ranging from the provision of health care facilities, blocks of classrooms, water boreholes and a community town hall worth N350m to support the Federal Government efforts in rebuilding the community.

“The caucus has announced a monetary donation of Mr Speaker and that of the Northern regional caucus of the Federal House of Representatives amounting to the sum of N45m cash,” the statement read in part.

The lawmakers commended “The charitable commitment of the Nigerian military and other security agencies for their patriotic commitments to combat the upsurge of insurgency, banditry and other criminal activities that plagued some parts of the country”, even as they lamented the continuous violent campaigns by bandits and other criminal elements across the country.

“Against the backdrop of such unshakable recurrent mishaps, the caucus has resolved to pay a condolence visit to commiserate with the government, and the leaders of the Tudun Biri community on Monday, 11th November, 2023 to commiserate with survivors of the unfortunate incident.

“The visit is aimed at securing first-hand insights of what transpired and enabling it to garner useful information to forestall future occurrence.

“The caucus commends the Tinubu-led Federal Government for promptly reaching out to victims and for taking charge of the victims’ welfare.

“The caucus has pledged to follow up with the Federal Government to ensure appropriate compensations for the victims and the community as promised by the Federal Government. The caucus is poised to provide the legal framework for the compensation, and also ensure that the families of those who were killed are adequately captured in the compensation scheme.

“The caucus appeals to the affected community and the leaders to remain calm and law-abiding while thanking the Government and Governor of Kaduna State for keeping to their responsibility of protecting law and order in the state,” the statement further read.

Governor Oyebanji’s Record On State Capital Development.

Governor Oyebanji’s Record On State Capital Development.

.....as Omisanjana Residents Hail Remarkable Road Reconstruction.

In a resounding chorus of appreciation, the residents of Omisanjana in Ado Ekiti have showered accolades on Governor Biodun Oyebanji for the on going reconstruction of the Omisanjana road.They lauded the governor, deeming the accomplishment as a testament to his commitment to the prosperity and development of Ekiti State.

The commendations flowed on Monday as a diverse group of residents, including traders, motorcyclists, trycycle operators, and business owners, gathered for an on-the-spot assessment led by Hon. Tade Aluko, the Special Adviser, State Capital Development Authority.

Hon. Aluko emphasized that the road’s transformation aligns with the governor’s 6-point Agenda, dedicated to enhancing the welfare and business environment for all residents.

Highlighting the significance of the road in the capital’s development program, Hon. Aluko assured residents of Governor Oyebanji’s unwavering commitment to fulfilling promises. He urged residents to actively support government initiatives by adhering to road safety measures and avoiding actions that could compromise the newly reconstructed road.

Residents, including a fashion designer, the head of the celestial parish pastor, and a Keke driver, echoed their satisfaction with the road’s metamorphosis. They praised the widened and smooth road, absence of boreholes, dust-free conditions, and the addition of well-constructed drainage channels to prevent flooding during rainfall. Business owners expressed joy at the revitalization of economic activities in the area.

While celebrating the road’s reconstruction, residents appealed for the installation of speed breakers to mitigate accidents caused by over speeding. Beyond road improvements, Governor Oyebanji’s administration also earned praise for reinstating electricity in the area, further boosting local businesses and fostering a renewed sense of vibrancy in Omisanjana.

Borno Visit: President Tinubu Grieves Over Kaduna Bomb Victims At Shehu's Palace.

Borno Visit: President Tinubu Grieves Over Kaduna Bomb Victims At Shehu's Palace. 

President Bola Tinubu, in Maiduguri, Borno State, on Monday, expressed his condolences once again to the families of Nigerians who lost their lives in the recent and sad bombing mishap in Tudun Biri, Kaduna State, saying that most of the victims tragically lost their lives while reciting the Shadada as they observed maulud, a central statement of faith for practising Muslims.  

"They were Nigerians of profound faith and in the moment of the tragedy, they were reciting the Shadada. God Almighty comforts their families as their nation grieves their passage into glory. May their souls rest in eternal peace," the President prayed.

Speaking at the palace of the Shehu of Borno, Alhaji Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai Al-Amin El-Kanemi, the President pledged that the Federal Government will continue to do all within its powers to provide support and care to the families of all Nigerians affected by the remnants of insecurity in parts of Borno State.

"This is my most sacred responsibility and the trajectory of the larger effort shown by the ratio of victory over defeat has been sliding well in our favour since the new administration has resumed office. We are not satisfied yet. We are not satisfied until we reach the end of insecurity in Nigeria," the President declared.

The President declared that under his watch, security issues would remain a top priority, but not limited only to battlefield concerns.

"We will provide better amenities and benefits to our gallant armed forces and their families. We are committed to this and this is factored into the 2024 budget. We will ensure that our administration reflects the grateful heart of the Nigerian people in the way we treat those who make the ultimate sacrifices on our behalf," the President affirmed.

Under President Tinubu’s leadership, the Office of the National Security Adviser has worked diligently to connect all branches of the nation's security architecture by closely coordinating missions and enhancing inter-agency intelligence sharing at all levels. Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum acknowledged the steady improvement in collaboration between the security agencies and the Borno State Government.

"We have seen the close working relationship between our state and the security agencies. The results are speaking for themselves. We remain committed to the achievement of the Renewed Hope Agenda in the fight against insecurity anywhere it exists in Nigeria. We thank you for your leadership, Mr. President. We will continue to give all required support to the Nigerian Armed Forces," Governor Zulum said. 

On his part, the Shehu of Borno, Alhaji Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai Al-Amin El-Kanemi urged the President to deliver his infrastructural interventions to areas that have been hard hit by insurgency over the years.

"We seek the revival of the Lake Chad Commission to provide succour to the large communities in the Lake Chad's surrounding areas. We seek power projects and job creation initiatives for our unemployed youths. Governor Zulum has been performing beyond what is humanly possible but his resources are limited. Please assist him," the Shehu of Borno stated.

Commending the Shehu of Borno for supporting the government of Borno State and the Federal Government in maintaining peace and stability in the region, President Tinubu promised to enhance the active involvement of traditional institutions in ensuring stability at the grassroots level across the country.

Cash scarcity: CBN suspends processing fees on cash deposits.

Cash scarcity: CBN suspends processing fees on cash deposits.

In a bid to alleviate the ongoing cash scarcity crisis in Nigeria, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has announced the temporary suspension of processing fees on cash deposits exceeding certain thresholds.

This suspension, which takes effect immediately and will remain in place until April 30, 2024, aims to incentivize cash deposits and enhance financial transactions for individuals and businesses.

Previously, individuals were charged a two percent processing fee on cash deposits above N500,000, while corporate entities faced a three percent fee for deposits exceeding N3,000,000.

The directive, signed by Dr. Adetona S. Adedeji, Acting Director of Banking Supervision, mandates all CBN-regulated financial institutions to comply. This means individuals and businesses can now deposit any amount of cash without incurring additional charges.

A CBN official told The Nation that “this measure will address the immediate cash shortage by encouraging the deposit of available cash into the formal banking system. This will increase the liquidity available for withdrawals and economic activity. Additionally, it promotes financial inclusion by making banking services more accessible to individuals who primarily rely on cash transactions.”

However, concerns remain about the potential for fueling inflation and illicit financial activities due to the processing fee suspension. Experts emphasize the need for the CBN to closely monitor the impact of this measure and implement appropriate mitigating measures if necessary.

The Nation has also reliably gathered that to address the current cash crunch in the country, the CBN has started deploying cash from its branches across the country to locations in dire need of cash.

Another CBN official revealed that “efforts are currently being made to move cash to where the scarcity is hardest.”

He reiterated that the CBN has sufficient cash to meet the transaction demands of cash-using members of the public.

He attributed the biting cash crunch to the panic withdrawals of cash by Nigerians ahead of the yuletide to forestall the experience of the last year.

The CBN’s latest directive and action to deploy cash to needy areas demonstrates its commitment to addressing the current cash scarcity crisis while promoting a cashless economy and ensuring a robust and inclusive financial system.

The suspension of processing fees on cash deposits is expected to provide immediate relief to individuals and businesses affected by the cash shortage, boosting economic activity and access to financial services in the short term.

FG to get Nigeria’s 20m out-of-school children to school.

FG to get Nigeria’s 20m out-of-school children to school.

Prof. Tahir Mamman, the Minister of Education, said this on Monday at the 2024 budget defense before the joint committee of the National Assembly on Education in Abuja.

He said that there were millions of out of school children in Nigeria saying that it was a major problem for the country.

‘’At the tertiary level, we need graduates who have skills and competence to be able to contribute to national development.

‘’We need graduates who can be employed by willing employers, right now we have that complain on the quality of the products from our universities and polytechnics.

“Basically the policy trust of the government and this ministry is on these major areas. There are about 20 million out-of-school children or even more in Nigeria.

“We are working on it to ensure that as many as possible of these children, for those of them that can come back to school are given the opportunity to come back,’’ he said.

Mamman added: “For those who cannot, we want to ensure they are empowered though short term skills training that will give them the opportunity to connect with the society to have a meaningful likelihood.”

The minister said that the ministry had engaged with stakeholders to review Nigeria’s school curriculum to ensue skills acquisition for students.

He encouraged universities to include skills training, and entrepreneurship into their curriculum to ensure that they produced self-reliant graduates.

Mamman said that a total of N101.45 billion was allocated for the ministry it 2024 out of which N5.88 billion was for personnel cost, N1.08 billion for overhead cost and N94.48 billion for capital expenditures.

The Chairman, House Committee on Alternative Education Rep. Aliyu Mustapha, said that the House was concerned by the rising number of out-of-school children in Nigeria.

Read Also: Carving a brighter future for out-of-school children

“I am happy that the minister has highlighted out-of-school children, youth and adult literacy in the ministry’s programme and vocational training that has taken the centre stage.

“In the 2024, we have seen that you are still limited by funding, the National Assembly is doing its best to see that those allocations are raised,” he said.

Alliyu assured of the required support to the ministry and oversight where necessary to ensure proper implementation of programmes.

(NAN)