La Liga investigates Bellingham’s alleged comment towards Greenwood.

La Liga investigates Bellingham’s alleged comment towards Greenwood.

La Liga is using a lip-reading expert to investigate a comment Real Madrid’s Jude Bellingham is alleged to have made towards Getafe’s Mason Greenwood during Thursday’s game.

La Liga says Getafe “filed a formal complaint” and will “act based on hard evidence”.

The incident came after England international Bellingham tackled Greenwood during Real’s 2-0 win.

A clip of the incident then went viral on social media. It is not clear to whom Bellingham made the alleged comment.

In a statement on Friday, La Liga said: “Yesterday, Getafe filed a formal complaint with the La Liga match director who, as per standard procedure in such cases, has requested an expert lip-reading report to investigate the matter and act based on hard evidence.”

Read Also: Bellingham breaks scoring record as Real Madrid return top

Greenwood, 22, joined Getafe on a season-long loan from Manchester United on 1 September.

In August, United said the one-cap England international would leave the club by mutual agreement after a six-month internal investigation into his conduct.

It came after charges against the player, including attempted rape and assault, were dropped in February.

Greenwood, whose contract at Old Trafford runs until 2025, has scored six goals in 21 appearances this season.

Bellingham, 20, joined Real in the summer for 103m euros (£88.5m) and has 18 goals in 27 appearances for Los Blancos.

We’re committed to fixing poverty, unemployment – FG.

We’re committed to fixing poverty, unemployment – FG.

The Federal Government has said it was committed to taking immediate action to tackle poverty and unemployment.

Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha said this during a meeting with top officials of the ministry in Abuja.

She urged the ministry’s leadership to adopt a private sector-driven approach, emphasising efficiency and productivity in fulfilling the ministry’s objectives.

In a statement on Saturday by the Special Adviser (Media) to the Minister, Emameh Gabriel, she said there was a need for a result-oriented approach within the ministry akin to that found in the private sector.

Onyejeocha said the shift was essential to fulfilling the proposed achievements outlined in President Bola Tinubu’s eight points agenda. 

She said: “We need concrete results that demonstrate the effectiveness of our programmes. Business as usual won’t cut it. We must work as people in the private sector; focused, accountable, and results-oriented. We are currently engaging development partners.”

The minister emphasised the ministry’s crucial role in achieving the President’s agenda, aligning with six of its eight points. 

She said: “At the end of every week, I will like to have the report of every department. I have never been in the last position and I don’t want to find myself there. Everybody will fail when the Ministry of Labour cannot account for the people we took out of the street and employed.

“The ministry is committed to taking immediate action to tackle poverty and unemployment. We will hold the Head of every department accountable for the achievements outlined in the president’s agenda. 

“Out of the eight Renewed Hope Agenda, Labour is concerned with six. We have a serious task to accomplish. So, we need to work hard on our template. I am passionate about reducing poverty in Nigeria, because our position is one that is directed to humanity.

“Nigerians are tired of conferences, words alone are not enough. What we need now is result, and Nigerians need to see employment and empowerment.

“I am no longer interested in teaching how to fish. I want to see the fish that have been harvested. Nigerians should see the fishes of those who were taught how to fish. Reduction of poverty in Nigeria is waiting for no date. So, all work against poverty and unemployment starts now."

Ekiti Traditional Women Chiefs Organize Spiritual Vigil Amid Insecurity.

Ekiti Traditional Women Chiefs Organize Spiritual Vigil Amid Insecurity.

...Commends Oyebanji's Swift Intervention and Development Initiatives in the state. 

Responding to the escalating insecurity, particularly the surge in kidnappings, the Association of Heads of Traditional Women Chiefs in Ekiti State has commenced a seven-day fastings and prayers programmes for divine intervention.

The exercises which had commenced on Friday, 2nd February, and will be rounded up in each of the towns in Ekiti on Wednesday, 7th February, the spiritual endeavor unfolds at Dave Hotel, Ado-Ekiti which throughout this period, fervent prayers were said for the protection of leaders at state and federal levels, and commended them for safe rescued of kidnapped victims at Emure - Ekiti 

Expressing deep concern over the brutal murders of three Monarchs, HRM Oba David Babatunde Ogunsakin, the Elesun of Esun-Ekiti, HRM Oba Samuel Olatunde Olusola, the Olumojo of Imojo-Ekiti and Onikoro of Ikoro town in Ekiti Local Government area of Kwara State HRM Oba Segun Aremu - Cole ,the Association vehemently called for justice.

Addressing the Heads of Traditional Women Chiefs at the prayer section held at Dave Hotel, Ado-Ekiti, President of Heads of Traditional Women Chiefs, High Chief (Mrs) Bolanle Owolabi, and the Secretary, Chief (Mrs) Bosede Fatomiluyi, the Eyesemowe of Iropora - Ekiti, urged Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji's administration to intensify efforts in ensuring the security of lives and properties.

Emphasizing the crucial role of security agencies, the Association called for increased vigilance to foster a peaceful environment. President Owolabi commended Governor Oyebanji's commitment to good governance in the state acknowledging developmental projects executed by his administration such as continuation of Ado to Iworoko to Ifaki Duarialization,the on going Ikere/ Igbara Odo to Ikogosi Roads , resuscitation of many Public primary and Secondary School across the State, restored electricity back to Gbonyin and Ekiti East Local Governments as well as moribund health institutions in the State among others.

Expressing solidarity with Governor Biodun Oyebanji, sympathizing with victims' families, and Ekiti Traditional Rulers, the Association demanded security operatives swiftly apprehend the perpetrators of the killing crimes

The Association conveyed sympathies with affected communities through their State Chairman Council of Traditional Rulers, Oba Ayorinde Ilori - Faboro, the Olojudo of Ido Ekiti, Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, and Ekiti state at large. They condemned in totality the gruesome murder of the three traditional rulers and called on the people of the State to expose the evildoers more.

They enjoined law enforcement agents and the Vigilantes to intensify efforts to ensure people sleep with their two eyes closed, collaborating with authorities both in the State and federal levels to maintain peace within and outside the State borders.

Furthermore, the Association condemned the abduction of pupils of Apostolic Faith Nursery and Primary School, Emure Ekiti, while commending the Governor's swift response. They called on God to expose evildoers attempting to undermine Governor Oyebanji's impactful contributions to education development and peaceful coexistence in the State.

In a commendable display, the Association acknowledged Governor Biodun Oyebanji's proactive approach, emphasizing his recent interactions with key figures in the military hierarchy. They expressed, "The Governor engaged in discussions with the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and the Chief of Army Staff, General Taoreed Lagbaja as this focus of these meetings was centered on the restoration of peace in the state and efforts to enhance overall security." The Association conveyed their appreciation for the Governor's commitment to addressing security concerns and ensuring the well-being of Ekiti residents.

Charging the Nigeria Police Force, The Nigerian Army, Amotekun, and all security agencies to synergize their strategies for peace to continue to reign in the State. The Heads of Traditional Women Chiefs Association urged all authority concerned to ensure permanent restoration of peace and stability to the state.

"As Ekiti State confronts security challenges, the collective efforts of Traditional Women Leaders, Government officials, and Security operatives must not relent on the urgency of addressing these issues to ensure the safety and well-being of our people," the Women Leaders said.

Assembly bombing: Fubara’s loyalists can face terrorism trial, says court.

Assembly bombing: Fubara’s loyalists can face terrorism trial, says court.

A Federal High Court in Abuja on Friday dismissed a preliminary objection challenging the competence of the Inspector General of Police to prosecute them on terrorism-related offences.

The defendants: Chime Eguma Ezebalike, Prince Lukman Oladele, Kenneth Goodluck Kpasa, Osiga Donald, and Ochueja Thankgod, who are loyalists of the Rivers State Governor, Simialayi Fubara, are standing trial on terrorism-related charges and alleged murder.

The IGP had instituted the charges against them following their alleged role in the bombing of the Rivers State House of Assembly in October 2023.

When the charges were read to the defendants, they all pleaded not guilty.

In a preliminary objection filed through their counsel, the defendants urged the court to stop the trial of the terrorism-related offence preferred against them as only the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice could try them on such an offence.

Justice Mobolaji Olajuwon, in a ruling on their preliminary objections on Friday, held that the defendants were wrong in their claims that only the AGF could put them on trial.

Justice Olajuwon said that the law especially sections 3, 63, and 74 of the Terrorism Prevention Act were clear to the effect that while the AGF had constitutional power to strengthen the terrorism prevention law, the same sections did not confer the exclusive rights to prosecute on the AGF.

The judge said that while section 5 of the Terrorism Prevention Act conferred the responsibility of gathering intelligence and investigation on police, the same section donated rights to police to initiate criminal charges in a competent court of jurisdiction.

Specifically, Justice Olajuwon held that while the AGF under section 174 of the 1999 Constitution could lawfully take over, continue, or terminate any initiated criminal charges, such right did not make trial an exclusive right of the AGF.

“From the cursory look at all the authorities cited by lawyers for and against the IGP rights to initiate the instant criminal proceedings, one thing is clear and clearly too, that police can rightly initiate criminal charges, including terrorism charges,” the judge said.

The Judge said that the preliminary objections to the trial by the defendants were incompetent and lacking in merit.

Olajuwon subsequently dismissed their objections.

After the ruling, the counsel for the first and second defendants, Lukman Fagbemi, SAN, urged the court to grant bail to his clients.

But the counsel for the prosecution, Simon Lough (SAN) opposed the application.

Justice Olajuwon, however, fixed Monday, February 5 for ruling on their respective bail applications.

Justice Olajuwon ordered that the five defendants be returned to Kuje Prison in Abuja pending the decision of the Court to allow them on bail or not.

Suspended monarch linked to illegal mining, says Oyo.

Suspended monarch linked to illegal mining, says Oyo.

The Commissioner for Information and Civic Orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade, has said that the Oyo State Government will hit hard at anyone, no matter how highly placed, who contravenes the law.

Oyelade was reacting to the suspension of the Onido of Ido land, Oba Gbolagade Muritala Babalola (Gbadewolu I), by the state government on Friday.

He revealed that the government took the tough measure of sending signals to those aiding and abetting criminals within the state’s territory, saying that “they are in the wrong place at the wrong time.”

Specifically, the commissioner disclosed that the Onido was suspended because of an intelligence report linking him to illegal miners in the Ido Local Government Area of the state.

“In the light of our recent experience and the government’s daily efforts to rid our land of criminals, we are sending the signal to all like-minded elements to vacate our zone or be caught and brought to justice,” the Commissioner said.

Speaking on the possibility of Onido being dethroned when the investigation was concluded, Oyelade said, “All options are on the table.”

It will be recalled that the government had, in a letter dated February 2, 2024, signed by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Hon. Olusegun Olayiwola, indicated that Governor ‘Seyi Makinde approved the suspension on February 1, 2024.

Ekiti State Takes Stride Towards a Cleaner Environment: Unveils First 20 Dino Bins.

Ekiti State Takes Stride Towards a Cleaner Environment: Unveils First 20 Dino Bins.

By Olamide Akinwumi.

In a significant leap towards promoting cleanliness and effective waste management, Ekiti State Government proudly introduces the first 20 Dino Bins. This innovative initiative not only enhances waste disposal but also signifies a collaborative effort between Ekiti State and the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA).

In line with Governor Oyebanji's vision for Ekiti State, a commitment to robust support for local content, including craftsmen, entrepreneurs, artisans, and contractors, has been demonstrated. A recent testament to this dedication is the fabrication of all 20 Dino Bins within the state. This noteworthy achievement serves as a clear showcase of Ekiti's commitment to promoting self-sufficiency and uplifting local artisans. The initiative aligns seamlessly with Governor Oyebanji's vision for a thriving and empowered community.

This initiative aligns seamlessly with one of the six pillars championed by Governor Oyebanji, focusing on supporting and lifting local talent. The collaboration with the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) not only improves waste management practices in Ekiti but also provides an invaluable learning opportunity for the state's artisans.

This partnership signifies not only a step forward in waste management but also reflects a broader commitment to sustainable development and collaboration between states. Ekiti State, in association with LAWMA, is setting a precedent for other regions to prioritize effective waste disposal solutions while nurturing the growth and expertise of local artisans.

As the Dino Bins find their place across Ekiti, residents can look forward to a cleaner, greener environment, promoting a sense of responsibility towards waste management and the overall well-being of the community.

The importance of the Dino Bins cannot be overstated, Here are some key reasons why having dustbins is vital for maintaining good hygiene:

●Disease Prevention: Proper waste disposal helps prevent the spread of diseases by minimizing the breeding grounds for pests and rodents that can carry harmful pathogens.

●Environmental Preservation: Bins contribute to the preservation of the environment by reducing littering, promoting cleanliness, and preventing pollution of air, water, and soil.

●Aesthetic Improvement: Dustbins enhance the aesthetic appeal of public spaces, creating a more visually pleasing and welcoming environment for residents and visitors alike.

●Community Health: The availability of dustbins encourages a sense of responsibility and civic duty among citizens, fostering a cleaner and healthier community.

As Ekiti citizens embrace the introduction of Dino Bins, it is essential to provide some sound advice on their proper utilization:

●Segregation of Waste: Separate your waste into recyclable and non-recyclable categories to facilitate proper recycling and disposal.

●Avoid Littering: Always use the designated bins for waste disposal, avoiding littering in public spaces. This simple act contributes significantly to maintaining cleanliness.

●Regular Emptying: Local authorities will ensure the regular emptying of the bins. However, citizens are encouraged to alert relevant agencies if a bin requires attention.

●Report Illegal Dumping: If you observe illegal dumping or improper use of the bins, report it to the appropriate authorities to uphold cleanliness standards.

Let's collectively contribute to keeping Ekiti clean and green. The introduction of Dino Bins is a positive step towards a healthier and more sustainable future for our beloved state.

Insecurity: Oyebanji Meets Service Chiefs, Seeks Strategic Intervention In Ekiti.

Insecurity: Oyebanji Meets Service Chiefs, Seeks Strategic Intervention In Ekiti. 

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji on Thursday met with the Service Chiefs in Abuja to fashion out a more strategic approach to stem the current spate of insecurity in some parts of the State. 

The Governor’s meeting with the service chiefs came on the heels of recent security breaches in the state, specifically the killing of two traditional rulers in Oke-Ako area and abduction of some school pupils and their teachers in Emure Ekiti. 

Governor Oyebanji, who was at the Defence Headquarters, Abuja alongside the Chairman of Ekiti caucus at the National Assembly and Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, met with the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa and the Chief of Army Staff, General Taoreed Lagbaja separately. He also met with other security chiefs. 

Oyebanji, at the meetings, explained that Ekiti State had been experiencing peace for the past years, but that the peace was truncated by the security breaches that occurred some days ago.

 “I need to rush here because the President spoke with me and gave certain directives that I needed to act on as soon as possible.

 “What makes the Ekiti situation a bit pathetic was the dimension it took. Among the Yoruba people, the traditional rulers are next to God. When you bring down two traditional rulers at once in such a gruesome manner, it sends a very dangerous signal to the entire race”, the Governor lamented. 

He pointed out that the abduction of school children portends a dangerous dimension, adding that such had never been experienced in the state. 

The Governor who exchanged ideas with the military top hierarchy, pushed for the deployment of more military personnel to the state to burst criminal hideouts, as well as provision of a Forward Operating Base to strengthen the security architecture of the state.

 “If we have enough men on ground, I mean the armed forces, there is a way we can police the three senatorial districts because we have an idea of where these people are and most of the time when the Army join the local vigilante groups, they make some arrests.

 “My plea to you is that if they cannot give us a Command in Ekiti State now, because I don't know the budgetary provision for that, we need a Forward Operating Base (FOB) as soon as possible. Whatever it is going to take, as a government, we will provide because announcement must be made to strengthen the security architecture of the state and give the people some respite.”

Governor Oyebanji promised the state government's support for the military to get rid of the criminals infiltrating the state.

In his remarks, the Chairman of Ekiti Caucus at the National Assembly and Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, explained that the recent situation in Ekiti demanded a military intervention and called for immediate intervention.

 “The situation in Ekiti is a further wake up call to the nation and I know that two days ago, we had to discuss this issue on the floor of the Senate following our discussion with the Excellency and some other stakeholders In some other states like Plateau, Benue, Ekiti, Oyo and other places we felt it is time for us yet again to sit down with our Service Chiefs in a close door session as elected representatives of the people, to ask questions and get some briefings and clarifications and even get educated as to where things stand."

Responding to the demands, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, assured the Governor that the Armed Forces would do all within its power to track down the perpetrators of the crimes that happened in Ekiti State. 

Just like the Civilian Task Force(JTF) in the North, the Chief of Defence Staff said the Army was ready to work with the local security network, stressing the need to leverage on technology, establishment of State-Community Policing, introduction of animal ranches, amongst others.

 “We do not have enough manpower on ground so we always have to make do with the locals. I was in the North East and we used the Civilian Joint Task Force (JTF) and they gave us lots of support. Maybe we put them on contracts and on renewal basis and we are able to monitor them if we see anyone misbehaving we remove them, this brings out the issue of community policing, it is very critical", General Musa added. 

Governor Oyebanji also had closed door meetings with the Chief of Army Staff, Major General Taoreed Lagbaja at the Nigerian Army Headquarters, as well as the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun at the Force Headquarters also in Abuja, in continuation of the discussions on the strategic intervention of the security agencies in the Ekiti matter. 

The Governor said giving the assurances he got from the meetings, Ekiti State would become uninhabitable for criminals, adding that the perpetrators of crimes in the state would be fished out.