The Economic Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has permitted two United States (US)-based witnesses in the trial of the former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Godwin Emefiele to testify virtually.

The EFCC made this known in a statement it shared on its official X account on Friday morning.

“A prosecution counsel in the ongoing trial of Godwin Emefiele on Thursday, October 17, 2024 prayed Justice Maryanne Anenih of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court, Maitama, Abuja, to allow two of his witnesses, I.E Obiora and Aisha Ahmed currently in the United States of America to give testimony via video links,” the statement read.

The EFCC is prosecuting Emefiele on a four-count charge bordering on disobedience of legal directives and illegal actions; causing harm to the public concerning the controversial naira redesign policy.

At the resumed session of the matter on Thursday, the counsel, Abass Mohammed, informed the court that his team encountered difficulties in bringing the witnesses to Nigeria and sought to file a motion to have the oral evidence of the witnesses taken via ZoomZoom or other video platforms.

“We filed a motion seeking my lord’s indulgence to take the oral evidence of the two witnesses via zoom or any other video links, my lord,” he said.

He further said the motion had been served on the defence counsels, adding, “Subject to my lord’s permission, we seek my lord’s permission to move the motion.”

Defence counsel, A. Labi-Lawal, responding to the prosecution, expressed no objection to the prosecution’s application but sought clarification on whether the witnesses would be the last to be called by the prosecution.

“We are not opposing the motion, but we would like to confirm from the prosecution whether these are the only witnesses that are left in the trial, my lord,” he said.

Mohammed clarified that there were other witnesses apart from the two based in the U.S., maintaining that the prosecution was calling the witnesses first as part of an ongoing review of its case plan.

Justice Anenih, after hearing the parties, granted the prosecution’s request and adjourned the trial till November 14, 26 and December 4, 2024 as well as January 21, 2025.

The Lagos State Government has alerted residents and property owners at the Ogun River Banks to relocate after the Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority (OORBDA) commenced the staggered release of water from Oyan Dam.

The Lagos State Government issued the alert through the Commissioner, Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab who spoke during a press briefing on Thursday.

“We, hereby, alert residents and property owners at the Ogun River Banks to be ready to relocate to higher grounds as the Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authorities commence staggered release of water from Oyan Dam,” Wahab said.

“Lagosians needed to be alerted on the commencement of release of water to maintain the sanctity of the dam and it’s socio-economic implications for Lagos State.

“It is crucial to understand that the dam’s annual operations are informed by real-time hydrological data, rainfall predictions from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET) and flood outlooks from the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA).

“These sources guide the water release decisions to ensure both flood control and the integrity of the dam.”

Wahab said the Lagos State Government and OORBDA acknowledge the concerns raised regarding the release of water from the dam and it’s impact on surrounding communities, particularly those along the Ogun River water channels extending into Lagos.

According to him, a detailed operational report by OORBDA states that the total water released from the dam this year as of October 12, 2024 stands at 1,484.2 million cubic meters (mcm) which remains below the average synthesized annual flow volume of 1,770 mcm.

Although rainfalls across the Oyan River catchment area have been significant with a cumulative 984.1 mm recorded this year, he said it remains lower than last year’s 1,540.8 mm and is within safe operational levels.

Wahab explained that 62.1% of the dam’s flood control capacity remains intact with the dam not under any imminent threat of releasing excess water beyond safe limits.

The commissioner added that this has been made possible through the collaboration of Lagos with OORBDA.

He said the Lagos State Government fully recognizes the challenge faced by residents in affected communities which include Kara, Mile 12, Agiliti, Ikosi Ketu, Owode, Ajegunle and Odo-Ogun as reported.

“However, I want to emphasize that while the flooding experienced in these areas has often been attributed solely to water released from the Oyan Dam, this is not entirely the case,” Wahab said.

“In reality, the downstream section of the Ogun River is influenced by a complex network of over 52 tributaries, all of which converge and contribute to rising water levels in the affected areas.

“These tributaries, combined with rain-induced runoff significantly exacerbate the flood situation which makes it a critical point to consider when addressing flood management strategies for this region.”

He explained that in an effort to reduce the flood risks and ensure the free flow of water within the Ogun River system, OORBDA recently flagged off the dredging of the Ogun River downstream from the Ikorodu to Isheri axis (Ajelogo, Owode-Elede, Ajegunle and under deck-on-pile of Itowolo Bridge) for the water released on Friday, September 13, 2024.

Wahab added that some right-of-ways along the catchment areas were protected and restored while the dredging project was a proactive measure to deepen the river channel and increase its capacity to convey water, thereby reducing the likelihood of flooding during periods of high inflow.

He said the Lagos State Government would continue to monitor the situation closely and collaborate with relevant agencies and affected communities to address humanitarian concerns, particularly for vulnerable groups like women, children, the elderly and people living with disabilities.

“I wish to appeal once again to our people to support our efforts by complementing the State Government through regular clearing of drains in their frontages to ensure free-flow of storm water as well as to desist from dumping of refuse into drainage channels and roads,” Wahab said.

The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) says the average price of 5kg of cooking gas increased from N6,430.02 recorded in August to N6,699.63 in September 2024

This is contained in the Bureau’s “Cooking Gas Price Watch’’ for September 2024 released on Friday in Abuja.

The report said the September price represented a 4.19 per cent increase, compared to what was obtained in August.

The NBS said the average price of 5kg of cooking gas increased on a year-on-year basis by 59.90 per cent from N4,189.96 in September 2023 to N6,699.63 in September 2024.

On state profile analysis, the report showed that Rivers recorded the highest average price at N7,285.71, followed by Gombe at N7,271.88, and Borno at N7,089.72.

It said on the other hand, Kebbi recorded the lowest price at N5,950.00, followed by Kano and Benue at N6,133.33 and N6,143.52, respectively.

Analysis according to the six zones, showed that the North-East recorded the highest average retail price at N6,929.02 for 5kg cooking gas, followed by the South-East at N6,893.47.

“The North-West recorded the lowest average retail price at NN6,382.30,” the NBS said.

Also, the NBS said the average retail price for refilling a 12.5kg cooking gas increased by 4.89 per cent on a month-on-month basis from N15,552.56 in August 2024 to N16,313.43 in September.

The report said the average retail price for 12.5kg cooking gas rose by 76.41 per cent on a year-on-year basis from N9,247.40 recorded in September 2023 to N16,313.43 in September 2024.

State profile analysis showed that Rivers recorded the highest average retail price of N17,992.86 followed by Gombe at N17,942.86 and Zamfara at N17,475.00.

On the other hand, the report showed that the lowest average price for 12.5kg of cooking gas was recorded in Adamawa at N13,983.33, followed by Nassarawa and Bauchi with N14,938.50 and N15,000.00, respectively.

Analysis by zone showed that the South-East recorded the highest average retail price of N16,957.29, followed by the South-West at N16,665.45.

The report said the North-East recorded the lowest price at N15,770.75

Similarly, the NBS said the average retail price per litre of kerosene increased to N1,957.44, in September 2024 on a month-on-month basis, showing an increase of 5.97 per cent, compared to the N1,847.59 recorded in August 2024.

According to its National Kerosene Price Watch for September 2024 on a year-on-year basis, the average retail price per litre of kerosene rose by 50.68 per cent from N1,299.03 in September 2023.

On state profile analysis, the report showed that Abuja recorded the highest average price at N2,816.67 per litre of kerosene in August, followed by Kaduna at N2,437.50 and Akwa Ibom at N2,411.11.

“On the other hand, the lowest price was recorded in Bayelsa at N1,416.67, followed by Borno at N1,477.83 and Ekiti at N1,635.00.”

The NBS said the analysis further showed that the North Central recorded the highest average retail price per litre of Kerosene at N2,194.05, followed by the North-West at N2,092.92.

It said the South -East recorded the lowest average retail price per litre of kerosene at N1,718.89.

The report said the average retail price per gallon of Kerosene paid by consumers in September 2024 was N6,818.1, indicating an increase of 5.84 per cent increase from N6,441.94 recorded in August 2024.

“On a year-on-year basis, the average price per gallon of kerosene increased by 55.69 per cent from N4,379.31 in September 2023.

On state profile analysis, it showed that Katsina recorded the highest average retail price at N8,400 per gallon of kerosene, followed by Jigawa at N8,100.00 and Kebbi and Ogun at N8,000.00.

The report said Nasarawa recorded the lowest price at N5,250.00, followed by Adamawa and Niger at N5,281.25 and N5,291.67, respectively.

Analysis by zone showed that the North-West recorded the highest average price per gallon of Kerosene at N7,809.52, followed by the South-East at N7,700.19.

“North-Central recorded the lowest average price per gallon of Kerosene at N6,092.77,” the NBS said.

The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) is on the rise and has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years, largely thanks to the unwavering commitment of strategic partners to the NPFL, GTI Group.

By laying down robust structures for transparency and accountability, GTI Group has significantly helped to improve the integrity and reputation of the elite league, ensuring that every dime from sponsors and investors of The Nigeria Football Fund (TNFF) are meticulously utilised and accounted for.

GTI’s initiative to enhance transparency in the NPFL goes beyond mere intentions; it involves concrete actions that laid the groundwork for accountability.

This commitment not only bolsters the league’s financial health but also promotes confidence among stakeholders, including fans, sponsors and players.

One of the critical challenges that faced the NPFL before the coming of GTI Group in the 2022/2023 season was crowd violence. However, the financial investment firm and the NPFL Board led by Hon. Gbenga Elegbeleye have worked harmoniously and tackled this issue head-on by implementing measures to curb this menace at match venues.

The placement of trained security personnel, implementation of zero tolerance to crowd violence and the issuance of fines against erring clubs cum their fans have fostered a safer environment for lovers of the beautiful game in the country.

As a result, match attendance has astronomically increased, allowing for a more vibrant and supportive atmosphere.

The enhanced transparency in match operations by NPFL has also sparked renewed hope and a sense of friendly competition among clubs.

With the increase in fair play and adherence to regulations, fans and players alike are experiencing a new wave of excitement.

This was exemplified on Match Day 3 of the ongoing 2024/2025 season, where the league witnessed an impressive display of five-star performance: five away wins, three draws, and two home wins.

This feat has never happened in the history of the elite league and reflects the blossoming football economy of Africa’s most populous nation. 

GTI Group and NPFL’s relentless effort has laid the foundation for a prosperous league that attracts local and international talents from neighbouring countries in the round-leather game.

By focusing on transparency, infrastructural development and security, GTI and NPFL are not just transforming the league; they are creating a sustainable environment where football can thrive.

As we celebrate these positive changes, it is essential to acknowledge the role of every stakeholder in this journey.

The NPFL is no longer just a platform for entertainment; it is a thriving business-oriented industry with the potential to inspire generations to come.

The transformation of the NPFL, championed by GTI Group, reflects a brighter future for Nigerian football. With the ongoing commitment and collaboration, the NPFL will continue to flourish, bringing glory to clubs and excitement to fans across the world.

The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) has disclosed that the average retail price of Premium Motor Spirit (Petrol) in Nigeria increased by 64.55% in September 2024 compared to the same period last year.

NBS also said the Automotive Gas Oil (Diesel) also saw an increase of 59.28% in September 2024 compared to the same period last year.

NBS, in its latest report on Thursday, said the average retail price paid by consumers for petrol in September 2024 was N1030.46, a jump from N626.21 in September 2023.

Likewise, comparing the average price value with the previous month (i.e., August 2024), the average retail price increased by 24.08% from N830.46.

On state analysis, Katsina State had the highest average retail price for Premium Motor Spirit (Petrol), at N1096.15, Ebonyi and Akwa Ibom States were next, with N1090.94 and N1085.71, respectively. Conversely, Yobe, Sokoto, and Kebbi States had the lowest average retail prices for Premium Motor Spirit (Petrol), at N939.38, N961.67, and N986.67, respectively.

While on the Zonal profile, the North-West Zone had the highest average retail price of N1036.52, while the North-East Zone had the lowest price of N1014.55.

Meanwhile, the average retail price of Diesel paid by consumers increased by 59.28% on a year-on-year basis from a lower cost of N890.80 per litre recorded in the corresponding month of last year (i.e., September 2023) to a higher cost of N1418.83 Per litre in September 2024.

NBS said on a month-on-month basis, an increase of 0.91% was recorded from N1406.05 in August 2024 to an average of N1418.83 in September 2024. Looking at the variations in the State prices, the top three states with the highest average price of the product in September 2024 include Bauchi State (N2061.67), Gombe State (N1615.00), and Akwa Ibom State (N1592.86).

The top three lowest prices were recorded in the following states, namely, Ekiti State (N1241.46), Abuja (N1262.25), and Oyo State (N1276.47).

The zonal representation of the average price of Automotive Gas Oil (diesel) shows that North East Zone has the highest price of N1581.97, while South West Zone has the lowest price of N1333.06 when compared with other Zones.

The Lagos State Government has slammed the African Action Congress (AAC) candidate during the 2023 presidential election, Omoyele Sowore over his criticism of the Red Line rail project.

The Lagos State Government on Tuesday, October 15, 2024 flagged off the first phase of the Lagos Rail Mass Transit (LRMT) Red Line.

The Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu officially launched the passenger operations of the LRMT Red Line which went on it’s inaugural passenger ride.

Sowore reacting via a post on his official X account on Wednesday said: “Yesterday, the Lagos state Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu launched a Redline train with fanfare.

“It costs N1,500 per trip, N15k per week, N6Ok monthly, also, he launched Lagos’s minimum wage at N85k per month. If workers take the redline to work, THEN!?”

The Special Adviser, Media and Publicity to the Lagos State Governor, Gboyega Akosile hit back at Sowore in a post he shared on his official X account on Thursday afternoon.

“A simple question that an intelligent mind should ask Sowore is what’s the solution to transportation fare he raised?,” Akosile asked.

“This is a guy who can’t even manage an enterprise successfully without running to donor agencies and now trying to dabble in subject areas above his mental and intellectual capacity.

“Someone should tell him to face front and focus on his failed attempts to create anarchy, which would never work anyway.

“Leave Lagos State as we are determined to continue on the path of progress and prosperity for the citizens.”

The Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) in a post it shared on its official X account, meanwhile, said the inaugural ride of the Red Line marked a significant milestone for the state’s transportation system.

LAMATA said the inaugural ride saw Governor Sanwo-Olu and his cabinet members join the first passengers on the 27 kilometer route between Agbado and Oyingbo.

According to the post, Sanwo-Olu emphasized the importance of preserving the newly inaugurated rail line and urged citizens to maintain its cleanliness.

He also announced that additional train cars were on their way, promising more frequent services in the near future.