News

Senator Ashiru’s attack on NDLEA borne out of vendetta

. We remain undeterred, but will continue to dismantle illicit drug networks including the one operating in the lawmaker’s house, Agency vows

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, says the recent attack on its image by Senator Oyelola Yisa Ashiru (Kwara South) was borne out of vendetta rather than based on any altruistic motive or national interest.

The Agency stated this at its National Headquarters in Abuja on Monday 21st October
during a press briefing addressed to respond to a disparaging statement made by Senator Ashiru that “the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency is corrupt and compromised…”

“The NDLEA is compelled to call this press briefing today because of an unfortunate development earlier last week during plenary in the Nigerian Senate when some uncomplimentary, unfounded, defamatory remarks were made against the Agency”

While acknowledging the great work of the Senate towards the upliftment of Nigeria and Nigerians especially their support for the ongoing concerted efforts towards the amendment of the NDLEA Act, the Agency however said it is duty-bound to respond to the unprovoked attack against it by Senator Ashiru during his contribution to the debate on a new bill for an Act to establish the National Institute for Drug Awareness and Rehabilitation on Tuesday, October 15, 2024.

The Agency said it waited for a whole week hoping the lawmaker will clarify his position on such a weighty allegation against it but failing to do that, it is left with “no option than to come out and set the record straight for the benefit of other distinguished members of the Senate, our local and international partners as well as the general public.”

According to the text of the press briefing read by the Agency’s Director, Media and Advocacy, Femi Babafemi,

“There is no doubt that setting up another agency is within the power of the Senate and if we are invited to contribute to the debate we will be willing to offer our opinion.

While we cannot fault the power of the senate on that, yet for a member of the upper chamber to have made such an unfounded and unwarranted categorical statement against the Agency led us to look inward to see what could have been responsible for such a carpeting general statement.

What we found was shocking, and we concluded that his statement came from a place of vendetta and certainly not out of public interest or any altruistic motive .

“The personal house of the senator in GRA Ilorin, the capital of Kwara State, had been raided in recent past, where drugs and illicit substances were recovered while two of his aides:

Ibrahim Mohammed and Muhammed Yahaya were arrested. Based on credible intelligence and surveillance which confirmed that the senator’s house was being used as a drug joint for drug dealers and users, the house was raided by our operatives at 1:30pm on February 4, 2024 during which the two aides were arrested, while a third suspect escaped arrest.

“In another encounter with the senator, the Agency also received intelligence that some of his boys popularly known as “Omo Senator” operating from his home town, Offa, were equally dealing in illicit drugs.

A raid was subsequently carried out on their joint in Offa where one of them, Oluwatosin Odepidan was arrested and illicit drugs such as methamphetamine and cannabis recovered from him on June 11, 2023. The bid to get the Agency drop the case against Odepidan including a visit to the Kwara State Command headquarters of the Agency in Ilorin by the Personal Assistant to the senator, one Omoluabi, was rebuffed as Odepidan was promptly charged to court and prosecuted.

Though the culprit jumped court bail in 2023, he was rearrested in 2024 after the court issued a bench warrant for his arrest.

He was eventually convicted and sentenced in June 2024.
“So, going by this backstory, it is deductible that these encounters that the Agency has had with the senator, must have been responsible for his outburst, and unfortunately, false allegation, the type that nobody within and outside of government has ever levelled against NDLEA before.”
The Agency said despite the impression Senator Ashiru was trying to create about its image, the NDLEA has continued to receive accolades from local and international bodies for its successes in the fight against substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking.
“Incidentally, the next day after Senator Ashiru made the statement, NDLEA in Lagos commissioned a new Marine Command Headquarters building donated by the Government of the UK. A similar facility at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport was donated last year by the same British government.

We have had other facilities donated by United States INL and executed by UNODC in the past 12 months. We have been receiving various support from the governments of France, Germany and the US, among others.
“Suffice it to say that in the past three years, NDLEA has emerged as a regional leader among national drug law enforcement agencies.

So, come to think about it, an agency so badmouthed by Senator Ashiru couldn’t have been attracting such international goodwill and commendation for being the “most corrupt government agency”

in Nigeria.
“Against the background of our encounter with people linked to him, we are wont to believe that Senator Ashiru’s invectives against NDLEA were borne out of vendetta and not any opinion made in the public interest.
“As an agency, we have been professional in our activities and interactions with citizens as we carry out arrests daily. In the past three years, we have made over 52, 000 arrests and got more than 9, 000 convictions, including three life sentences this year. And, as part of our mandate, we have engaged in over 7,000 awareness and sensitisation activities in schools, workplaces, worship centres and communities; treatment and rehabilitation of more than 33,000 drug users including the last two persons arrested in the senator’s house; supported by governments, organisations and other stakeholders in the country and around the world.
“Outside this country, NDLEA has become a reference for drug law enforcement. Therefore, the statement by Senator Ashiru, made in the country’s hallowed chamber in the course of a legislative debate, and made to justify the creation of another agency is motivated by malice; it is a gross misrepresentation of fact; and it is defamatory to the image of NDLEA. We believe the well-meaning public; our stakeholders and our partners can see through such calculated mendacity.”
The NDLEA vowed it will remain undeterred by Senator Ashiru’s attack but will be relentless in ongoing effort to dismantle all illicit drug networks across the country including the one operating in the lawmaker’s house.
“So, if Senator Ashiru has a personal grudge against NDLEA, it shouldn’t be cloaked as a matter of public concern. His statement of October 15, 2024, uttered in the hallowed chamber of the Nigerian Senate, is a gross abuse of his position as a legislator of the Federal Republic to undermine an agency of government by wrong accusation calculated to erode public confidence in NDLEA and detract from its integrity. And we dare say that such will not deter us from our ongoing effort to dismantle all illicit drug networks including the one operating from the senator’s residence.
“NDLEA since January 2021 has been on a journey of reforms, and so far, we are glad with the progress we are making. We are grateful to the federal and state governments for the support we have been enjoying. We are equally grateful to the National Assembly for the huge support they give that has made possible the turnaround of NDLEA from a dormant agency to a vibrant government organ. We equally acknowledge the unprecedented collaboration with our partners, which has made our work easier. We have concrete results to show for our efforts, and those results cannot be wished away by anyone’s careless remarks.”

Femi Babafemi
Director, Media & Advocacy
NDLEA Headquarters, Abuja
Monday 2ist October 2024

US

Biden congratulates Trump, invites him to White House

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President Joe Biden called Donald Trump to congratulate him on his victory Wednesday and invited his Republican successor to hold a meeting in the “near future,” the White House said.

In his call with Trump, “President Biden expressed his commitment to ensuring a smooth transition and emphasized the importance of working to bring the country together,” a White House statement said.

Biden also spoke with Kamala Harris and “congratulated the Vice President on her historic campaign,” the statement said, adding that the president on Thursday “will address the nation to discuss the election results and the transition.”

News

Harris calls Trump to congratulate him on election win

US Vice President Kamala Harris called Donald Trump on Wednesday to congratulate him for winning the 2024 presidential election, one of her senior aides said, following a bitter and contentious race.

Democrat Harris discussed with Trump the importance of a peaceful transfer of power and being a president for all Americans, said the aide speaking on background, confirming that Harris will deliver remarks in Washington later Wednesday.

News

Morocco 2025: Ekong, Lookman, Osimhen, Simon, 19 others gear up for Benin, Rwanda

Captain William Ekong, Atalanta of Italy’s Ademola Lookman, effervescent winger Moses Simon, reigning Africa Player of the Year Victor Osimhen and 19 other players will seek for six points against Benin Republic and Rwanda in the closing rounds of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign this month.

Coach Augustine Eguavoen has also called goalkeepers Stanley Nwabali and Maduka Okoye, defenders Calvin Bassey and Bright Osayi-Samuel, as well as midfielders Frank Onyeka, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru and Alhassan Yusuf Abdullahi, and forwards Kelechi Iheanacho, Victor Boniface and Samuel Chukwueze. Home-based defender Victor Collins will join up with the group for the first time, and there is a return for gangling forward Sadiq Umar, who plays for Real Sociedad in Spain.

Defenders Olaoluwa Aina and Bruno Onyemaechi are also listed, while France-based defender Gabriel Osho will hope to play his first competitive game for fatherland, after his inability to honour a first call-up in the summer due to injury.

The Super Eagles will fly directly to Abidjan on 11 November, for the confrontation with the Cheetahs of Benin Republic at the Stade Felix-Houphouet-Boigny on Thursday, 14th November, before traveling down to Uyo for the final qualifying game against the Amavubi of Rwanda at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium on Monday, 18th November.

Currently top of their Group D, the Super Eagles will be certain of a place in the final tournament if they get a point against the Cheetahs, which will take then to 11 points, and with only final-day opponents Rwanda capable of catching up with them on points.

However, with a current tally of seven goals for and none against (following the CAF Disciplinary Board’s award of three points and three goals for the botched Matchday 4 encounter against Libya), the Super Eagles stand head and shoulders above the Amavubi, who have one-goal deficit and five points in their favour going into the final two matchdays.

Goalkeepers: Stanley Nwabali (Chippa United, South Africa); Maduka Okoye (Udinese FC, Italy); Amas Obasogie (Fasil Kenema SC, Ethiopia)

Defenders: William Ekong (Al-Kholood FC, Saudi Arabia); Bright Osayi-Samuel (Fenerbahce SK, Turkey); Bruno Onyemaechi (Boavista FC, Portugal); Gabriel Osho (AJ Auxerre, France); Calvin Bassey (Fulham FC, England); Olaoluwa Aina (Nottingham Forest, England); Victor Collins (Nasarawa United) Midfielders: Wilfred Ndidi (Leicester City, England); Raphael Onyedika (Club Brugge, Belgium); Alhassan Yusuf Abdullahi (New England Revolution, USA); Fisayo Dele-Bashiru (Lazio FC. Italy); Frank Onyeka (Augsburg FC, Germany); Alex Iwobi (Fulham FC, England) Forwards: Samuel Chukwueze (AC Milan, Italy); Victor Osimhen (Galatasaray FC, Turkey); Ademola Lookman (Atalanta FC, Italy); Kelechi Iheanacho

(Sevilla FC, Spain); Victor Boniface (Bayer Leverkusen, Germany); Moses Simon (FC Nantes, France); Sadiq Umar (Real Sociedad, Spain)

News

US Elections: President-Elect, Trump thanks X boss, Elon Musk for his support

Donald Trump, the Republican candidate in the 2024 United States presidential race, has publicly lauded tech mogul and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk for his remarkable contributions, specifically his deployment of the Starlink satellite service in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.

Speaking to his supporters on Wednesday, Trump praised Musk as a “super genius” and recognized his efforts during the hurricane’s destructive impact on the southeastern United States in October.Hurricane Helene left communities across the southeast struggling, with critical infrastructure downed and thousands in need of urgent assistance.

In response, Musk’s Starlink satellite network provided much-needed internet connectivity, especially in North Carolina, which faced significant communication challenges.

Trump emphasized the importance of this rapid support, saying, “I told Elon they need it badly in North Carolina. Can you get it? He had that there so fast, it was incredible. It saved a lot of lives.

They saved a lot of lives.” Trump’s remarks underscore the critical role that Starlink played in relief efforts, enabling first responders and affected residents to stay connected, access vital information, and coordinate rescue operations.Trump’s admiration for Musk extended beyond the immediate context of the hurricane response.

He described the billionaire entrepreneur as “a character” and “a special guy,” attributing Musk’s success and innovation to his unique intelligence and drive. Trump noted, “He’s a super genius. We have to protect our geniuses; we don’t have that many of them.” This statement not only reflects Trump’s appreciation for Musk’s skills and achievements but also his broader belief in the value of supporting talented innovators who contribute to the nation’s progress.

In recent years, Musk has been an outspoken supporter of Trump’s policies and has aligned with the former president on key issues, particularly in the realms of business and technology. Musk’s support for Trump’s 2024 presidential campaign has gone beyond verbal endorsement; he has reportedly made financial contributions aimed at bolstering Trump’s efforts to reclaim the White House.

Musk’s backing reflects a partnership built on shared interests and values, particularly around economic growth, technological advancement, and a commitment to the entrepreneurial spirit.

As a pioneer in space exploration, electric vehicles, and satellite technology, Musk’s influence has permeated various sectors of the American economy and global innovation.

His Starlink initiative, a satellite internet network designed to provide high-speed internet access in remote or underserved areas, has proven its value in times of crisis, including this recent disaster response.

Through his dedication to innovation and swift action during Hurricane Helene, Musk has demonstrated the potential of technology to address real-world challenges, earning him recognition not only from Trump but also from communities that benefited from his support.

In praising Musk, Trump highlighted a central theme of his 2024 campaign: the importance of fostering American talent and protecting the country’s innovators.

His remarks suggest that he sees figures like Musk as essential to driving America’s future, and his relationship with the tech visionary illustrates a broader vision for a nation where public and private sectors collaborate to solve critical issues and strengthen resilience against future challenges.

News

Democratic Lessons: Atiku Advocates for Integrity in Nigerian Elections After US Vote

Former Vice President of Nigeria and prominent figure in the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, has recently reflected on the outcome of the United States presidential election, underscoring valuable lessons he believes Nigeria should adopt.

Atiku’s remarks come in the wake of the U.S. election, which concluded with former President Donald Trump, representing the Republican Party, emerging as the President-elect after a victory over Democratic candidate Kamala Harris.

Atiku, who ran as the PDP presidential candidate in Nigeria’s 2023 election, addressed Nigerians through a statement that highlighted his belief in the importance of electoral integrity.

He emphasized that Nigeria’s democratic journey could greatly benefit from studying and implementing the practices that contributed to the credibility of the recent U.S. election. According to Atiku, the success of the election in the United States was not merely a testament to the candidates involved, but also to the effectiveness of an electoral system that prioritizes transparency, accountability, and the sanctity of the ballot.

He expressed hope that the peaceful transition of power seen in the United States would inspire Nigerian leaders to prioritize free and fair elections.

“The lesson for us in Nigeria is the integrity of the process that ensures a credible outcome,” Atiku stated. This, he elaborated, is essential to maintaining public confidence in electoral institutions and fostering a culture where political outcomes reflect the will of the people.

Atiku’s comments highlight his advocacy for electoral reforms in Nigeria, as he has long been an outspoken proponent of measures aimed at strengthening the democratic process and making elections more transparent.

Atiku went further to express his hope that the incoming Trump administration would support democratic principles internationally, especially in nations like Nigeria where political processes are often marred by allegations of irregularities.

He stated, “It is the expectation of every Nigerian that the Trump administration will stand resolute in ensuring free and fair elections in Nigeria and other places in the world.

”Additionally, Atiku extended a warm message of congratulations to the American people, acknowledging their commitment to democracy and the power of the vote.

“My warm congratulations go out to the people of the United States, whose unwavering faith in the power of democracy and the sanctity of the ballot has once again shown the world the true might of the people’s voice,” he remarked.

Atiku’s message serves as a call to action for Nigeria’s electoral body and political stakeholders to commit to reforms that would enhance the electoral process.

He advocates for a system in which every citizen’s vote counts and where electoral outcomes are uncontested due to credibility.

For Atiku, this is a vital step in restoring Nigerians’ faith in democracy, ensuring that future elections are free of violence and manipulation, and paving the way for a democratic system where leaders are chosen by the genuine choice of the people.

News

Ododo, Makinde mourn COAS Lagbaja

Governors Usman Ododo and Seyi Makinde of Kogi and Oyo States respectively have mourned the death of the COAS, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja

Kogi State Governor, Usman Ododo and his Oyo State counterpart, Seyi Makinde have mourned the death of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, calling his demise a huge loss to the country.

Ododo’s condolence was contained in a statement signed by the Kogi State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Femi Fanwo.

Ododo said the departure of the gallant and brave Army Chief was sad at a time when the fight against insecurity in Nigeria had gathered momentum.

He noted that the late Gen. Lagbaja was a “fearless General, an indomitable fighter, a tactical genius and an uncompromising warrior determined to stamp out terrorism and banditry from Nigeria.”

The governor extended his heartfelt sympathies to President Bola Tinubu, the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, the Military establishment, the government and people of Osun State and the family of the departed hero.

He called on the Nigerian Armed Forces to ensure that his dream of a secure and safe Nigeria does not die with him and prayed for the repose of his soul.

Oyo State governor, Seyi Makinde on Wednesday also described the death of Lagbaja as a sad loss to the country.

Makinde described Lagbaja as a patriot and one of the finest military officers produced by Nigeria.

He expressed condolences to President Tinubu, the Nigerian Army and commiserated with the immediate family of the deceased COAS as well as the government and people of Osun State on the demise of their illustrious son, praying to Allah to grant repose to his soul.