- Military has said that it would arrest the leadership of Miyetti Allah over Benue killings

- The leadership of Miyetti Allah had alleged that its members and cows were killed by the military in Nasarawa state

- Acting director defence information, Brig Gen. John Agim, said the military had commenced investigations into the complicity of the group in last week’s killing

Acting director defence information, Brig.-Gen. John Agim, has stated that the military would arrest the leadership of Miyetti Allah and their sponsors if ongoing investigations by the military established that they had a hand in the bloodbath in Benue state.

Vanguard reports that Agim, who made this known on Tuesday, July 3, in Makurdi, was reacting to allegation by the leadership of Miyetti Allah that its members and cows were killed by the military in Nasarawa state.

READ ALSO: APC crisis: Oshiomhole is coming too late, we are leaving- Shehu Sani

NAIJ.com gathered that he said the military had commenced investigations into the complicity of the group in last week’s killing of two soldiers and injuring of five others attached to Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), a military spike operation, to end herdsmen incursions and armed banditry in Benue, Taraba and Nasarawa states.

Agim said: “I want you to understand that in our operations in other states, especially in the far north, we discovered that in such areas, Miyetti Allah had been suffering issues of cattle rustling. We arrested rustlers with their cows and we returned same in hundreds to them.

“We are even shocked that Miyetti Allah, that is supposed to be a lawful association, is claiming that their members were killed. That is why we said that investigation is ongoing and if it is discovered that Miyetti Allah or any group is involved, they will not go scot-free.

“A lot of people have been posing the question to us on why we have not arrested them (Miyetti Allah). If you listen to them complain, you will know that they also have issues.

“But the issue is that no one, no matter whatever wrong he feels he had been subjected, the law of the land does not allow you to take up arms against other people, and that is what we stand for.

Agim, however, denied that six herders, 150 cattlewere killing, adding that: “So on the allegation by the chairman of Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association (MACBAN), Mohammed Hussein, that OPWS killed six herdsmen and 150 cows, I wish to make it clear that the special forces troops of OPWS did not kill herdsmen or cows as claimed by the MACBAN chairman in Lafia. It is completely false and unfounded.

“The truth of the matter is that on June 26, 2018, at about 6 am, some troops of OPWS carried out a cordon and search operation at a suspected herdsmen militia camp at Barkin Kota village in Keana local government Area of Nasarawa state.

He confirmed that two military personnel were killed while five sustained serious injury.

“After the initial success of the operation, the militia elements reorganised and attacked our team, killing two soldiers and injuring five personnel, including the Officer Commanding, who led the operation.

“Following this incidence, some troops of OPWS were mobilised for reinforcement. In the fire fight that ensued, some of the militia must have sustained some casualties as we were able to extricate our men that were injured", he added.

Agim also noted that the military arrested forty-six suspects, recovered twenty-seven weapons, 1,060 ammunition.

He said: “In the course of the fighting, OPWS troops recovered one AK-47rifle fitted with magazine, two locally made guns, one pistol, one axe and 800 rounds of 7.62mm special. This was the criminal group that our troops were able to destroy their camp.

“So, for the chairman of Nasarawa State chapter of MACBAN to identify and associate them as members of his association begs for questions and answers.

PAY ATTENTION: Read the news on Nigeria’s #1 new app

“While the military is not in a hurry to link MACBAN to this militia, investigation has begun to unravel those behind the death of our men. The military is ready to take down those who are responsible alongside their sponsors, no matter how highly placed.”

Meanwhile, NAIJ.com had previously reported that the Senate president, Bukola Saraki and Governor Aminu Tambuwal of Sokoto state demanded for an immediate removal of security chiefs to allow for fresh and innovative ideas on how to protect the nation.

Victims of Herdsmen killing buried in Benue State - on NAIJ.com TV

Source: Naija.ng

A beautiful Nigerian lady has taken to social media to call out a young man who recently shared money to some of his followers on Facebook. However, the lady belongs to the same group where the guy shared the money.

The lady who was identified as Nwachukwu Jennifer Nazzy took to her Facebook to accuse Firstson King Kings of being a yahoo boy. Nazzy who was part of Kings’ beneficiaries on Facebook claimed that her pastor rejected the money because it is soaked in blood.

Nazzy further added that, the young man should send his account number so she can give back the N10,000 he transferred to her. Kings’ also fired back at Nazzy on Facebook and called her a b*tch.

Firstson King Kings. Source: Yabaleft

READ ALSO: Nigerian lady cries out for help following threats from her baby daddy

His post reads: “This b*tch plays underground to get this the first post deleted. But I dare her to influence it again while I still remain the king of this Yabaleft. Whoever knows her b*tch Nwachukwu Jennifer Nazzy should just tell her that am coming for her and her fraudulent pastor with my legal action. And I repeat if she don’t leave this Yabaleft for me I will leave for her and drop the kingship tonight. Let her just know she has cross my lane and I can be radical on that.. Let her visit my timeline once again and see for herself. If this post is deleted again I wouldn’t be OK with the admin. I am a king of this YabaLeft and am entitled to post a screenshot.”

See post below:

Part of Nazzy’s post reads: “I was the lady you sent N10,000 on one of your giveaway post in Yabaleft Facebook group please with no offense I don’t need that money again. Send me your account number I want to send it back to you. You are a yahoo guy and blood is in your hands. I used the money as sowing seed in the church and my pastor rejected it and ask me to return the money to you. That the money is soaked with blood of v*rgins and God is not happy with me and my life has been shortened from the day I collected the money from you.”

PAY ATTENTION: Get hottest gist on Naija Uncensored Facebook Group

Nwachuckwu Jennifer Nazzy. Source: Yabaleft

See more screenshots of their conversation below:

Beware!

Why do women cheat? (Nigerian Street Interview) - Street Gist | Naij.com TV - on NAIJ.com TV.

Source: Naija.ng

The group therefore called on the Nigerian government to set up a commission to look into the armed herders killings with a view to proffering lasting and just solutions.

- Coalition of 40 female civil society groups under the aegis of Women Situation Room in the southeast

- According to organisers of the protest, it was in solidarity with communities experiencing armed conflict, wanton killings and other human degradation

A coalition of 40 female civil society groups under the aegis of Women Situation Room in the southeast, has protested the rampant killings across the country which they said affect women and children.

The group therefore called on the Nigerian government to set up a commission to look into the armed herders killings with a view to proffering lasting and just solutions.

In a protest to Enugu State House of Assembly yesterday where they submitted their demands to the Speaker of the House, Rt Hon Edward Ubosi, coordinator of the group, Mrs Blessing Duru said they want to increase women’s substantive participation in conflict prevention and peace building process.

Duru said the protest was in solidarity with communities experiencing armed conflict, wanton killings and other human degradation.

She said: “Women of Nigeria and indeed most of the populace are shocked and saddened by the tragic and inhumane killings of citizens and destruction of properties across Nigeria.

“The upsurge of violence against Nigerian citizens with women and children bearing the brunt of the casualties and sufferings has become a major source of concern that needs to be addressed urgently.”

They carried placards that read: “Peace means absece of violence”; “Government should act”; “stop the killings”; and “say no to killings,” among other inscriptions.

Addressing the women, the House of Assembly Speaker, Ubosi told them that the House had passed laws that protect women and children and urged them to always support one another.

He promised that the House would do all it could to help bring to an end, the killings across Nigeria.

PAY ATTENTION: Install our latest app for Android, read best news on Nigeria’s #1 news app

Meanwhile, NAIJ.com had reported that Prof Uche Azikiwe, wife of Nigeria’s first President, Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe, urged Igbo women to enter the political space and stop shying away from it.

According to The Sun, Mrs Azikiwe made her comments in Nnewi, Anambra state, while attending a one-day international Igbo women conference which was organized by the Ohanaeze Igbo Women Organization Worldwide and the Ezumezu Ndigbo Women Organization Worldwide.

Top 5 reasons Nigerian women are special - on NAIJ.com TV:

Source: Naija.ng

The house of Senate, on Tuesday, July 3, raised a united voice in the call for the creation of state police in a bid to overhaul the nation's security system and completely end violence in form of rampant killings.

After much debate and argument in its plenary session on Tuesday, July 3, the Senate resolved to order its constitutional review committee to put in motion a machinery to amend the constitution in order to allow for the creation of state police.

Added to this, the Senate also warned security agencies across the nation to stay away from political issues, Premium Times reports.

READ ALSO: 100 level student of Anambra State University killed by thunder

One of the contributors to the issue was Isa Misau (APC, Bauchi Central). Misau blamed the rampant killings in the country on the alleged incompetence of security bodies and that of the executive arm of the federal government.

Misau said: “The solution is on the table of the president. Since he has admitted that there are incompetent people in power, he should remove them and if he won’t, he should tell us why they are still maintaining their seats. They said we are against the government, we will continue to talk until the right thing is done."

Senator Kabiru Marafa (APC, Zamfara), in his argument, condemned the attitude of some Nigerians who take a religious stance about the mindless destruction of lives and properties.

Marafa said: “Plateau State is predominantly a Christian state so if people are killed in Plateau, Christians will be killed. But we sit down and say ‘Christians are being eliminated’, ‘it is genocide’ and so on. This is hypocrisy! We ought to give this thing the name it deserves.

“There are killings in Zamfara and those arrested are not all foreigners or Fulanis. I make bold to say that the killings in Plateau State are happening in conjunction with indigenes of that state because it is a business. But every day, we either give it an ethnic or religious colouration without minding the fact that these things are being done and we are the losers.

“The Christian and Muslim clerics that are giving these killings a religious colouration are all hypocrites because we all know where they belong to. It is not limited to one religion but at the end of the day, the problem remains."

Moreover, in reaction to Senator Ike Ekweremadu's call for the creation of state police, Marafa said: “Now that these things are stepping up, suddenly, we are bringing the issue of creating state police. I have never heard a chief executive of a state that gave the commissioner of police of that state or military head an instruction and he disobeyed."

On his part, the Senate speaker, Ike Ekweremadu condemned Marafa's position that those behind the call for the creation of state police are doing so in order to have their way with crime.

Ekweremadu stated: “There are certain things we say here that we may not understand the implication. Senator Marafa is saying that those who are pushing for state police are the ones behind the killings so that they can have their way.

“Our rules say no one should input improper motive to any other senator. I am saying this because I don’t want to go out of this place and somebody will arrest me that I sponsored the killings. He has to withdraw that statement.”

PAY ATTENTION: Get the Latest Nigerian News Anywhere 24/7. Spend less on the Internet!

Among other things, the Senate resolved to urge the executive arm of the government to undertake the rehabilitation of displaced persons and reconstruction of communities in Plateau north, south and central Senatorial districts, so that they can return to their homes and farmlands.

It also agreed to urge the executive arm of government to apprehend and prosecute all perpetrators and sponsors of violence, irrespective of their positions.

Meanwhile, NAIJ.com reported that the Special Military Task Force, “Operation Safe Haven’’ on Wednesday, June 27, paraded three suspects in connection with the latest killings in Plateau state that sparked national outrage.

NAIJ.com gathered that the three men were said to have been captured at Gashish district in the Barkin Ladi local government area of Plateau.

The suspects were paraded in Jos alongside 14 others, who were arrested over the killings in which people, described as herdsmen massacred over 200 people, mainly locals and farmers on June 24.

Osinbajo Oighlights Reasons for Incessant Herdsmen Troubles, Proffers Solution | NAIJ.com TV

Source: Naija.ng

- Reactions continue to trail the recent killings in some parts of the country

- Speaker of the House of Representatives, Honourable Yakubu Dogara, has joined in condemning the killings

- Dogara says failure to curb the killings will be a dent on the present administration;'s history when it is written

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Honourable Yakubu Dogara, has said that history will be harsh on the present administration if it failed to stop the mass killing of innocent Nigerians in some parts of the country.

Dogara said this on Tuesday, July 3, while welcoming members back his colleagues from the Eid- El- Fitr holiday.

He said that the killings of innocent Nigerians should be stopped immediately, urging the government to live up to its responsibility of protecting its citizens.

READ ALSO: Benue killings probe: Military confirms readiness to arrest Miyetti Allah leaders if found guilty

His words: “History will have a harsh verdict for us as a government if we fail to live up to this responsibility and it will not matter if we succeed in other areas.

“Unfortunately, the stark reality now is that our citizens are fast losing confidence in our security system.

“This must not be the case. Before we ebb to the realm of anarchy, we must rise up as true representatives of the Nigerian people to salvage the situation and defend our hard-won democracy.”

Dogara said that the unresolved issue of rampant killings of defenceless people including innocent and vulnerable children and women, in various parts of the country, called for sober reflection.

He added that there must be more concerted efforts by the National Assembly to exploit all its constitutional powers and privileges to ensure the protection of lives and property in the country by security agencies.

PAY ATTENTION: Install our latest app for Android, read best news on Nigeria’s #1 news app

Similarly, the Progressive Youth Caucus (PYC), a coalition of youth groups in the All Progressives Congress (APC), has called on President Muhammadu Buhari to act fast in ending the killings in the country, in order to salvage the image of the nation.

In a message signed by its chairman, Comrade Bamidele Olagoke, the PYC urged the president to immediately conduct a review of the security apparatus and architecture in the country, and do away with all non-performing service chiefs and heads of security organization to help bring back Nigeria’s positive perception amongst the international community.

The group cited the recent report by Amnesty International and the letter by the United Nations Secretary General, Antonio Guterres, as clear indicators that the international community views the security situation in Nigeria as a threat to the sovereignty of the nation.

National Day of Mourning for Victims of Violent Killings Across Nigeria on NAIJ.com TV

Source: Naija.ng

- Senator Jonah Jang has accused the APC and the Buhari administration of destroying the democracy ahead of 2019

- Jang also hinted at running for a higher office in the 2019 election

- He described his indictment on the recent killings in Plateau state as senseless and laughable

Former governor of Plateau state and senator representing Plateau north, Jonah Jang, has hinted at running for a higher office in 2019.

Jang, who said this while briefing journalists in Jos, also accused the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Muhammadu Buhari administration of destroying Nigeria's democracy ahead of 2019.

Jang said: “I am the senator representing Plateau north, I may be re-contesting the Senate, and I may be contesting a higher position.

“That decision is in the making and the PDP is working very hard to win the election on the Plateau and I am a key figure here on the Plateau.

READ ALSO: House of Reps declares Jos killings genocide

“So, there seems to be a very deliberate plan to get me out of the way so that I don’t participate in any of the electoral processes.

“I just want to make it very clear that if this is the way our politics is going to be, then I am sorry to say that the democracy that we worked hard for is dying.

“I was part of the G-18, G-34, that fought for this democracy to come, and the G34 formed the PDP, and PDP nurtured democracy for 16 years.

“But now, the APC as a party has come and wants to destroy it by trying to make sure that there is no opposition.

“They want Nigeria to become a one party state, and I believe that this is a subtle way of destroying democracy in Nigeria.

“But by the grace of God, it will not happen. This democracy has come to stay, and we are going to participate fully and no amount of threat will stop us from taking over power as a party in Nigeria in 2019.”

Jang also accused the APC government of planning to incarcerate him ahead of the 2019 general election.

The former governor has also dismissed his indictment in the recent massacre in Plateau state.

PAY ATTENTION: Read the news on Nigeria’s #1 news app

Meanwhile, NAIJ.com earlier reported that Senator Jang has insisted that Nigeria’s image can only be redeemed by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) judging by the performances of governors on the platform of the party.

The former governor made the statement on Monday, June 18, when commissioning 24 three-bedroom flats for civil servants in Port Harcourt.

PDP's Magnificent 7 For 2019 Election | NAIJ.com TV

Source: Naija.ng

- The anti-rice smuggling war of the Nigeria Customs Service has continued to yield results

- The assistant comptroller and commander, strike force of the command, Ekanem Wills, says vehicles carrying bags of foreign rice were confiscated

- He says the vehicles were ferrying the smuggled rice along Kaduna, Zaria and Kano

Vehicles carrying bags of foreign rice along Kaduna, Zaria and Kano have been confiscated by the Nigeria Customs Service.

Premium Times reports that the confiscation was confirmed on Monday, July 2 by the assistant comptroller and commander, strike force of the command, Ekanem Wills.

NAIJ.com notes that Wills said: “We were able to confiscate eight Golf wagons and three J5 vehicles conveying smuggled rice."

According to him, each vehicle had about 40 to 45 bags of rice. He said the culprits have been arrested and further investigations are ongoing.

READ ALSO: I'm very happy to be in Nigeria, it's an appealing country - President Macron

Wills said that new vehicles have been provided by the government, which he said would be used for patrol to enhance the capacity of the personnel in the efforts to end smuggling.

He warned smugglers to find new legitimate means of livelihood, adding that the command was determined to seize all goods being smuggled into the country through its area of operation.

PAY ATTENTION: Install our latest app for Android, read best news on Nigeria’s #1 news app

Meanwhile, NAIJ.com previously reported that the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), federal operations unit, Zone B, intercepted 1,825 bags of foreign rice and other commodities from smugglers in Katsina state in May 2018.

The controller of the unit, Alhaji Usman Dakingari, made this known in Katsina on Wednesday, June 6.

Market Survey: Check out what traders said at Nigeria's food basket - on NAIJ.com TV

Source: Naija.ng

- Audu Bulama was arraigned with four others over an alleged N229 million fraud

- Justice Hammada Isa Dashen of the Federal High sitting in Damaturu, Yobe state, granted them bail in the sum of N50,000 each

- The court also wants sureties who must be directors and have landed properties in Damaturu

Justice Hammada Isa Dashen of the Federal High sitting in Damaturu, Yobe state, on Tuesday, July 3, granted bail to a former minister, Audu Bulama, and four others facing allegations of fraud to the tune of over N229 million.

Bulama is accused alongside Mohammed Kadai, Abba Gana Tata, Muhammad Mamu and Hassan Ibn Jaks, of alleged criminal conspiracy to commit money laundering to the tune of over N229 million.

NAIJ.com reports that the former minister was also the coordinator of the Goodluck Jonathan campaign organization.

READ ALSO: Obasanjo assumes new office

He was arraigned alongside Kadai, who is a former commissioner for integrated and rural development in Yobe state; the deputy coordinator of the campaign organisation, Abba Gana Tata; Muhammad Mamu and Hassan Ibn Jaks.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) arraigned the defendants on a seven-count-charge for the alleged offence of criminal conspiracy to commit money laundering.

The EFCC claims that the defendants conspired to make cash transactions above threshold without going through financial institution.

The agency further said investigation was conducted and facts were established against them.

Justice Dashen admitted the defendants to bail in the sum of N50,000 with two sureties in the sum of N25,000.

The sureties, according to the court, must be civil servants not below the rank of a directors and are to be residents of Damaturu with landed properties.

The court also states that all the defendants must submit their International passport to the registrar and properties of the sureties be verified by the registrar of the court.

PAY ATTENTION: Read the news on Nigeria’s #1 new app

The case has been adjourned to September 24, 2018 for trial.

NAIJ.com reported earlier that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Monday, July 2, 2018, arraigned a former minister of state for power, Muhammad Wakil, and four others before Justice MT Salihu of the of Federal High Court, Maiduguri.

A statement by the EFCC says the five accused were arraigned on a seven-count charge bordering on criminal conspiracy and money laundering to the tune of over N 341 million.

Is Nigeria Truly the Poorest Country in The World? Omisore - Ex-Lawmaker Speaks | Naij.com TV

Source: Naija.ng

- Colombia have crashed out of the ongoing FIFA World Cup in Russia at the round of 16 stage

- Both teams played 1-1 during the open play but the Three Lions progressed after winning 4-3 on penalties

- Meanwhile two Colombian players have been told never to return home by angry football fans in the south American country

Death threats have been aimed at two Colombia players Mateus Uribe and Carlos Bacca who missed their penalties against England at the round of 16 of the ongoing FIFA World Cup in Russia.

The south American team crashed out of the tournament on the back of their 4-3 defeat to the Three Lions on penalties after playing 1-1 draw after 120 minutes.

Uribe’s penalty hit the crossbar while Bacca’s attempt to save the day was saved by Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford to give Gareth Southgates men the chance to reach the last eight of the championship.

Meanwhile, some Colombian football fans have urged their fellow fans not to seek the death of their national team players because they lost penalties.

READ ALSO: Manchester City finally convince Leicester City to sell Mahrez for £60m

The threatening messages were made despite a police investigation into early death threats made towards Colombian player Carlos Sanchez after he was send off three minutes into the team’s World Cup opener against Japan.

Many outraged football fans pointed out that yesterday was the 24th anniversary of the death of Andres Escobar, who was shot dead after his own goal was blamed for sending Colombia home at the 1994 World Cup.

One post by Twitter user David Castaneda warned: “Die Carlos Bacca. Son of a b*tch. No-one wants you, gonorrhoea. To this country you don’t return.”

PAY ATTENTION: Click on link to get World Cup fixtures on NAIJ.com

Another, Jhon Duqueismo, wrote: “Thank you to all the players, except to three-time son of a b*tch, useless, dead, Carlos Bacca. Don’t come back here."

Brayan Sanchez wrote: “Don’t wish for the death of Bacca and Uribe. Do we wish to repeat what happened to Andres Escobar? Is this Colombia? Games are won and lost, we are a real country.”

Another, Lois Lane, said: “The anniversary of the death of Andres Escobar and you are calling for the death of Bacca. I’m sorry, I can’t stand such sh*t people. Get out of my timeline."

PAY ATTENTION: Click on link to get World Cup standings on NAIJ.com

And MoreJuanSe wrote: “Now they start to insult and threaten Uribe and Bacca. Yesterday was the 24th anniversary of the death of Andres Escobar, please, please! Let’s learn how to lose as well.”

Escobar, who would have clocked 51 on July 2nd, 2018, was shot by a gangland figure 10 days after his mistake against the US knocked Colombia out of the World in 1994.

However, moments before the game against England at the Spartak Stadium, Escobar's brother, Sachi, had warned that the tragedy could happen again if Colombia failed to get through to the quarter-finals.

And he pleaded with his country’s passionate fans and gangland figures ensure sure that no other player is hurt or threatened if things didn’t go their way.

He said: "I want to send an important message to those people who think things can be resolved with violence, and with weapons, that they can take someone’s life just because they make a mistake, in this case the life of a football player.

"Football should be a vehicle of peace and social transformation, and at the end of the day, it is just a game.

"But I truly hope that, if Colombia failed to meet these expectations, then the tragedy that happened to my brother doesn’t repeat itself. God forbid that it happens again."

And he said of the death threats made against Sanchez, he said: “As a brother who has gone through this, I know what must be going through their heads, and I wouldn’t want anyone to go through that.

PAY ATTENTION: Become a member of the leading sports Facebook group 'Naija Football Fan Zone'

"Carlos must be feeling both sad for the mistake he made, and very afraid, and his family too.

"My brother never received any threats, they just shot him dead in the most cowardly way.

"The fact that people are still allowed to say these things on social network sites, even threaten him with death... shows me that nothing good came out of Andres’ death, nothing was learned.

"These people are just lowlifes who are not real Colombian football fans, who should be arrested and thrown into jail."

NAIJ.com previously reported that Sachi, the brother of later Andres Escobar has urged football fans to calm the tension in the air ahead of their round of 16 clash against England.

He feared the same occurrence that saw his brother murdered after crashing out of the 1994 edition of the championship staged in the USA repeat itself.

During the 1994 FIFA World Cup in the United States of America, his younger brother, Andres Escobar scored an own goal in a 2-1 defeat by hosts nation.

Sadly, 10 days later, Andres was killed in cold blood. Later, a bodyguard linked with a drug cabal was later sentenced for killing the then 27-year-old defender, who only netted once for the Tricolor against England’s Three Lions’ at Wembley.

Leo Messi at 31: What Is Really Happening In The Player’s Life Right Now - NAIJ.com TV

Source: Naija.ng

- The Federal High Court describes the continued detention of Governor Ben Ayade’s aide, Daniel Asuquo, and two others as illegal

- Justice Ekwo says the detention contravenes sections of the Nigerian constitution

- Police arrest 8 suspects over Benue killings

The Nigerian Navy has been ordered by the Federal High Court in Calabar to release with immediate effect, one of Governor Ben Ayade’s aide, Daniel Asuquo, and two others to the Nigeria police.

The court in a verdict on Tuesday, July 3, declared their continued detention by the navy illegal. Asuquo and two others had been detained by the navy over alleged bunkering activities since December 9, 2017, the Sun reports.

Justice Ekwo ruled that the continuous detention of the three suspects was unconstitutional, null and void as it contravened sections 35 (1), 36(1), 37 and 41 (1) of the 1999 constitution as amended.

READ ALSO: Obasanjo assumes new office at NOUN

The judge mandated that the detained persons be released to the police or any other prosecuting authority for the purpose of prosecuting them if anyone of them committed any offence.

“The arrest and detention of Mr. Daniel Asuquo and two others their residence at N0 7 ,Mesembe Avenue on the 9th of December, 2017,was unconstitutional and violates sections 35(1),36(1),37 and 41.(1) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended)," Justice Ekwo stated.

Meanwhile, Nigeria police force has arrested a serving councillor of Fidi ward in Benue state, Benjamin Tivfa and 7 more suspects in connection with the recent killings in the state, The Cable reports.

PAY ATTENTION: Read the news on Nigeria’s #1 new app

Jimoh Moshood, police spokesman, in a statement issued on Tuesday, July 3, while the suspects were paraded at the Force Headquarters in Abuja said the councillor admitted to have supplied arms and ammunition to some bandits for their criminal activities.

NAIJ.com gathered that Moshood listed suspects who were arrested on June 27, as: Victor Ganabe (a native of Naka), Daniel Kyase (Mbaku), Adajo Tomza (Tse Egbe), Msugh Sengv (Naikpe).

Lagos Police Commissioner Parades Suspected Criminals (Nigeria News) | Naij.com TV

Source: Naija.ng

- Yusuf Idegu, the Nation journalist has dismissed claims that his story on the reaction of the leader of Miyetti Allah on Plateau killing is false

- The journalist said he stands by his story which is an interview with Danladi Ciroma

- According to Idegu, he never circulated the controversial story on Whatsapp as widely speculated

A journalist with The Nation newspaper, Yusuf Idegu, has said that he stands by his story on the reaction of the leadership of Miyetti Allah over the killing of hundreds of Plateau state residents.

Idegu dismissed as false reports that his interview with the leader of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria, Plateau chapter, Danladi Ciroma never took place.

The journalist had in a report sdaid that Ciroma had described the killings in Plateau as retaliation for 300 rustled cows and loss of some herders’ lives generated controversy.

While, the MACBAN leader admitted to granting Idegu an interview, he however denied ever making such statement.

READ ALSO: Oshiomhole came late, we are leaving APC - Shehu Sani warns

Ciroma said: “We talked on phone. Sincerely speaking, what that boy wrote was not what I told him. We did not speak on reprisal attacks."

The conversation between Ciroma and Idegu has led to various controversies including blames that the reports led to more killings in the state.

But in his response Idegu said he still stands by his story on Ciroma response on the killings in Riyom local government area of Plateau state.

Read Idegu's full statement below:

PREMIUM TIMES in their apology to Miyetti Allah last week which went viral, I did commented that they were unnecessarily in a hurry to conclude their investigation on the denial of Danladi Ciroma who granted me interview. I still insist that that so-called investigation by is so shallow and strange.

If you read that apology again, it was alleged that I YUSUFU AMINU IDEGU circulated my story on a WattsApp page for colleagues to copy. All of us here in Jos can bear me witness that I don’t have the habit of sharing my published story in WattsApp page.

By the way, it is against our rule here that no journalist should paste his story on any of our three platforms eg, Correspondents platform, NUJ platform and that of Ministry for information. So, on which reporters platform did I share that story? Can any of us remind me of any other platform I circulated that controversial story. I never did.

Again, the fact that Danladi Ciroma denied his comments and PREMIUM TIMES hurriedly apologized to Miyetti Allah does not mean Miyetti Allah is right and the media is wrong. Up till now, I still remain positive and confident that Danladi Ciroma is lying, the fact that I have no record of the interview does not also make Ciroma right in his claim.

READ ALSO: After meeting President Buhari in Abuja, French President Emmanuel Macron visits New Afrika Shrine in Lagos

Let us not narrow investigation into media publications to availability of recording alone, providing the voice recording could be a short-cut to the investigation, but in the absence of the short-cut, the long-cut alternative can be explored for thorough investigation.

I’m happy my employer, THE NATION newspaper is doing that at the moment, based on the confidence they have in me, they are exploring all necessary alternatives to get to the root of it.

As colleagues or as a body of media practitioners, let us also not be too hasty in condemning any colleague that find himself in this saga for the fact that in all discipline, professionals can make mistake at a point in his work no matter your years of experience. I’m 19 years in journalism, in spite that, I’m not immune to professional mistake.

Above all, I still insist I’m not wrong in this matter, I have no apology for Miyetti Allah or Danladi Ciroma.

Thank you colleagues for taking your time, remain BLESSED.

Meanwhile, NAIJ.com previously reported that investigation into the report by The Nation on Miyetti Allah's response on the killings in Plateau state took a dramatic turn.

Following various investigations, it was gathered that there was no recording of Idegu's alleged interview with the leader of the cattle breeders association in Plateau.

PAY ATTENTION: Install our latest app for Android, read best news on Nigeria’s #1 news app

Also, Premium Times which had earlier published the said interview apologised to the chairman Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Danladi Ciroma, for attributing to him, a statement that the recent killings in Plateau state were in retaliation for death of about 300 cows belonging to the herdsmen.

The newspaper also sacked its Jos-based reporter - Andrew Ajijah who filed in the story on Miyetti Allah's alleged response to the killings.

The newspapers in their different reports said association claimed that the killings in Plateau state were in retaliation for death of about 300 cows. A statement Ciroma has since denied.

National Day of Mourning for Victims of Violent Killings Across Nigeria |

Source: Naija.ng

- Steven N’Zonzi has hinted La Liga side, Sevilla about his plans to leave this summer

- The Frenchman is looking forward to reunite with former manager .Unai Emery

- But N'Nonzi presently has a £35 million release clause in his present deal at Sevilla

Former Stoke City midfielder, Steven N’Zonzi has hinted La Liga side, Sevilla about his plans to leave this summer, thereby putting Arsenal on alert, reports suggest.

Arsenal target Steven N’Zonzi in action for Sevilla. Photo Credit: Getty Images

READ ALSO:

According to the Mirror report, citing sources at UK Sun, the 29-year-old has been linked with a move to the Emirates’ in recent transfers and is now looking likely that N’Nonzi will finally return to the English topflight this summer.

PAY ATTENTION: Click on link to get World Cup fixtures on NAIJ.com

The Frenchman, is currently with the Les Bleus at the ongoing FIFA World Cup in Russia, but is looking forward to reunite with former manager.

PAY ATTENTION: Click on link to get World Cup results and standings on NAIJ.com

Interestingly, N'Nonzi presently has a £35 million release clause in his present deal at Sevilla but the Gunners’ will need to splash out the cash to enable the switch see the light of the day.

PAY ATTENTION: Become a member of the leading sports Facebook group 'Naija Football Fan Zone'

However, Juventus are equally gearing up to battle Arsenal for the Sevilla star midfielder.

Meanwhile, NAIJ.com previously had reported that Arsenal have announced the signing of Sokratis Papastathopoulos from Bundesliga side Borussia Dortmund.

The Greece international who has been heavily linked with the Premier League side since new manager, Unai Emery took over, has finally penned a deal.

Arsenal took to their social media handle to unveil the player wearing the club's jersey making it official.

Leo Messi at 31: What Is Really Happening In The Player’s Life Right Now | Naij.com TV

Source: Naija.ng

- Kaduna state governor, Mallam Nasir el-Rufai has signed an unlawful societies declaration law

- The state solicitor-general, Chris Umar said law is aimed at promoting public safety

- The government recently banned IMN, Sara-suka, Yanshara and other criminal gangs operating

The member of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN) the umbrella body of the Shi’ite Islamic sect and other urban gangs operating in Kaduna state risk seven years jail term that is due to a new order signed by governor Mallam Nasir el-Rufai.

Vanguard reports that Kaduna, Solicitor-General, Chris Umar on Tuesday, July 4, said the unlawful societies declaration order, 2018, was aimed at promoting public safety and to uphold law and order in the state.

Kaduna state government had banned IMN, Sara-suka, Yanshara and other criminal gangs operating in the state on October 6.

READ ALSO: Oshiomhole is coming too late, aggrieved members are leaving - Shehu Sani

The solicitor general, flanked by the state Director of Public Prosecution, Dari Bayero, said the measures being taken by the state government was aimed at curbing the menace of urban gangs.

According to him, “the most recent is the decision by the Kaduna state Executive Council to approve the Unlawful Societies (Declaration) Order, 2018.

“Conviction for an offence under this order attracts a minimum sentence of seven years imprisonment. This order, which has been gazetted, became effective on June 27.

PAY ATTENTION: Get the Latest Nigerian News Anywhere 24/7. Spend less on the Internet!

“It declares as unlawful societies and urban gangs that have been unleashing mayhem on innocent persons.

“The violent, criminal actions of these gangs pose serious threats to peaceful and harmonious coexistence in our communities, and threaten the tranquility, security and development of the state.

“Sara-suka, Yanshara and others have acquired notoriety for involvement in criminal activities, including petty theft, robbery, and murder.”

Meanwhile, NAIJ.com had reported some members of the IMN known as Shiite group were given free admission into the National Open University of Nigeria.

The fresh students were said to be inmates in Kaduna prison after a crack down by the government.

The National Open University of Nigeria admitted some members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria (Shiites) for degree and postgraduate degree programmes.

The Shiites members were detained in Kaduna prison following a crackdown by the state government.

What is working well and what needs improvement in Nigeria? On NAIJ.com TV:

Source: Naija.ng

A Nigerian lawyer who is also a radio personality has called on Nigerian parents not to define their children by their grades in school. He noted that the school is a place for children to learn, grow and play.

The lawyer identified as Jake Okechukwu Effoduh who used his grades in school as an example, noted that he failed in secondary school but the result did not define where he is today. He added that school is not a place for competition.

Effoduh who had failed nine subjects out of fifteen subjects when he was 12 years old in secondary school, turned out to be a great lawyer with five law degrees.

30-year-old Effoduh had bagged his five law degrees from several Ivy League universities. He further advised parents that what should matter is who their kids are not what they have done with themselves.

Man with 5 law degrees tells parents why school marks are not so important Photo source: Instagram user Jake Okechukwu Effoduh

READ ALSO: 24-year-old man makes Nigeria proud, graduates with first class in China (photos)

He wrote: "Dear parent, this was me at 12 years old. I failed 9 out of 15 subjects (including Maths and English) from a public school.

This result from 18 years ago didn’t define me then; and it obviously didn’t determine how I turned out. School isn’t a competition, it is a place for learning, play and growth. There’s more to life than an estimation of one’s academic performance. If you ask me: your child’s result should be taken as a receipt that you paid school fees, finish.

I am 30 years old now and I have bagged 5 university degrees in law from several Ivy League schools. This as well, should never matter! Life is not by the “where” and “what” you’ve done for yourself but by who you are and how it affects others."

PAY ATTENTION: Get the Latest Nigerian News on NAIJ.com News

Effoduh who is also an human rights activist has been involved with several human rights organisations and projects. He also works as a research assistant with the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies.

He anchored the community radio show Flava on BBC Media Action and he is also hosting the Talk Your Own: Make Naija Better programme.

PAY ATTENTION: Get the hottest gist on Naija Uncensored Facebook Group

See result below:

Jake's result Photo source: Instagram user Jake Okechukwu Effoduh

CEO's Interview: Meet Nigerian Woman Who Quit Banking for Farming - on NAIJ.com TV

Source: Naija.ng

- APC national chairman, Adams Oshiomhole, has said that the party would continue to blame PDP for Nigeria's woes

- He said that APC could not fix in 3 years what PDP failed to do in 16 years

- Oshiomhole noted that those who became overnight letter writers were the people who governed as absolute rulers when they were in power

Adams Oshiomhole, the national chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), has said that the party would not stop blaming past administration for its failure during its 16 years of governance in Nigeria.

Channels reports that Oshiomole, who was one of the speakers at the APC southeast mega rally for Buhari in Owerri, Imo state capital on Tuesday, July 3, blamed the PDP for failing in establishing projects in the southeast during their administration.

READ ALSO: Benue killings probe: Military confirms readiness to arrest Miyetti Allah leaders if found guilty

NAIJ.com gathered that he said that those who became overnight letter writers were the people who governed as absolute rulers when they were in power.

He said: “Those who are writing letters now. Those who have become unelected advisers. They governed as absolute rulers for almost three years. They came back eight years, what did they do about second Niger bridge? And then he wanted to take us to Mugabe where there is no end of tenure.

“Those who have spoken before me have spoken concerning all the initiatives and infrastructural projects that are going on in this part of the country. This is not to say everything is now fine. It is a journey. We cannot fix in three years, what PDP didn’t do in sixteen years.

“What they didn’t fix in 16 years, they said we should have fixed it in three years. And then they said we should stop the blame game.”

The former Edo governor also canvassed for support for President Muhammadu Buhari in the 2019 presidential elections, noting that the president would sustain his developmental projects if re-elected in 2019.

He said: “If President Buhari is doing what he is doing in the southeast right now, he will certainly do more in 2019."

This is the first outing by the newly elected national chairman of the APC.

Oshiomhole was sworn in on Sunday, June 24, by the Attorney-General of the federation and minister of justice, Abubakar Malami, as the national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

PAY ATTENTION: Read the news on Nigeria’s #1 new app

This was after he was affirmed as the national chairman of the party unopposed on Saturday, June 23.

Meanwhile, NAIJ.com had previously reported that the senator representing Kaduna central, Shehu Sani, on Tuesday, July 3, said it was already too late for some of the members of the party set to leave.

Pastor Adeboye, Imams Should Join Politics to Move Nigeria Forward - Olulade | - on NAIJ.com TV

Source: Naija.ng

- Captain Irene Koki will be commandeering the first Nairobi-New York flight come October 28.

- President Uhuru Kenyatta among other senior government officials will be aboard the hallmark flight

- The direct flight will take 15 hours compared to the current indirect ones taking at least 22 hours

- Koki begun her aviation career at 19 when she was employed as a Cadet by KQ

- She has risen through the ranks and is the first female captain in Africa to pilot a Boeing 787

It has emerged that Kenya’s most celebrated female pilot, Irene Koki Mutungi, will be the lead pilot commandeering the first Kenya Airways flight bound for New York from Nairobi.

During the long awaited Sunday, October 28, flight, the 42-year-old pilot will be behind the control columns of one of the world's most technologically sophisticated planes, Dream-liner Boeing 787-8.

According to People Daily, President Uhuru Kenyatta will be the first passenger aboard the cabin of the Dream-liner Boeing 787-8 as he has already acquired the first ticket.

READ ALSO: Heart-melting moment Adekunle Gold's sister bursts into tears after seeing brother's face on billboards in London (photos)

Celebrated Kenyan female pilot Irene Koki Mutungi to commandeer maiden direct flight to US. Source: Tuko

On Tuesday, June 19, Captain Koki was also in the limelight after she was honored by the state department of Tourism following her victory in the 2017 Africa Top Travel 100 Women.

Koki intimates that her desire to fly was triggered when she was five years old by observing her father who by then was a KQ pilot.

READ ALSO: Shock as dead woman found alive in mortuary fridge

“I was later employed as a cadet by KQ when I was 19 years, promoted to second officer, first officer and now 23 years down the line, a fully fledged pilot (captain),” she said.

Celebrated Kenyan female pilot Irene Koki Mutungi to commandeer maiden direct flight to US. Source: Tuko

She recollects that after going through advanced studies in the male dominated field, she acquired a commercial pilot licence from the Federation Aviation of the US in 1995.

After that, she returned in the country and was hired by KQ becoming the national carrier’s first female pilot and remained one up to 2001.

In 2004, she transited and became Africa’s first woman to captain a commercial plane after beating all odds and qualified to command a 737.

Since then, she has climbed the ranks and commands even bigger carriers among the 767 and 787.

Koki boasts to be among the 626 female pilots globally while the males take the lion's share of the industry with 13,140 pilots. This is according to 2017 statistics of Airline Pilots Association.

The Captain says that she wishes for more female pilots to join the league adding that seeing a female pilot really pumps a sense of pride and confidence in her.

“I think that pilots should be employed based on their skills and not their gender,” says Koki.

Celebrated Kenyan female pilot Irene Koki Mutungi to commandeer maiden direct flight to US.

She dismissed fears of fatigue during the 15 hour flight stating that the plane has been built in a manner that it eliminates any source or cause of exhaustion.

“Dream-liner air crafts are designed to offer a “calmer cabin experience”, equipped with a quieter air conditioner and advanced technology that isolates noises from vibrations in sidewalls and ceilings and reduces engine noises,” she said.

According to the State departments of Tourism and Trade, the direct flights will give Kenya a wider business berth besides also positioning it as a strategic business partner with other Western countries.

The airline also envisions to rip big from the flights exuding optimism they will also bail it out of its current economic struggles.

PAY ATTENTION: Read best news on Nigeria's #1 news app

Top Nigeria Richest States: Can You Name Them? on NAIJ.com TV

Source: Naija.ng

- The Federal High Court has dismissed an application for a plea reversal by four companies that pleaded guilty to laundering $15.5 million allegedly belonging to Patience Jonathan

- The companies prayed the court to nullify previous proceedings in their trial because those who represented them were not authorised to do so

An application by four companies, which pleaded guilty to laundering $15.5 million allegedly belonging to former First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan, was on Tuesday, July 3, dismissed by a Federal High Court sitting in Lagos, Vanguard reports.

NAIJ.com gathered that the companies, Pluto Property and Investment Company Limited, Seagate Property Development and Investment Company Limited, Transocean Property and Investment Company Limited and Globus Integrated Service Limited, had prayed the court to reverse their guilty plea and nullify the previous proceedings because those who represented the company were not authorised to do so.

The companies were arraigned by Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) alongside a former special adviser on domestic affairs to President Jonathan, Dr Waripamo Dudafa; a lawyer, Amajuoyi Briggs, who is the companies’ secretary and a banker, Adedamola Bolodeoku. Dudafa, Briggs and Bolodeoku pleaded not guilty to the 17-count charge.

Chief Mike Ozekhome, SAN, the companies’ lawyer, told Justice Babs Kuewumi that his clients were not given a fair trial before their conviction because they had no legal representation of their choice.

Ozekhome said he was briefed to represent the companies after its directors pleaded guilty despite not being authorised by the board to do so.

He asked that the trial be done de novo (afresh) and the previous proceedings declared null, void and unsustainable in law. But, prosecuting counsel, Rotimi Oyedepo urged the court to refuse the application for being an abuse of court process. According to him, it amounted to asking the judge to revisit his ruling and to assume the position of an appellate court.

Justice Kuewumi ruling on the application, held that a lower court can only reserve himself in exceptional cases where there is “a serious procedural irregularity” or where the court lacks jurisdiction.

The matter was however, adjourned till October 17 for hearing.

In a previous report by NAIJ.com, Patience Jonathan, the wife of former President Goodluck Jonathan on Monday, January 22, lamented before Justice Nnamdi Dimgba of the Federal High Court in Abuja, over the demolition of some properties linked to her foundation in Abuja, the nation’s capital.

The properties were demolished despite a pending suit in respect of the properties before Justice John Tsoho of a Federal High Court in Abuja.

The EFCC stage a walk against corruption - on NAIJ.com TV.

Source: Naija.ng

Everyday, different stories of young Nigerian inventors pop up on the internet, proving that Nigeria as a country is home to a lot of intelligent minds.

A while ago, NAIJ.com reported the news of how a young man identified as Alex Ephraim based in Imo state, built a V6 combatant car. He further added some crucial upgrades to the well-functioning car he built.

Well, yet another talented young boy has made the news for his own invention. According to reports, he built a stunning and unique automobile.

A Twitter page shared the good news, asking people if they would purchase the unique automobiles as the inventor needed genuine feedback "Would you buy this Made in Nigeria car? The inventor needs genuine feedback."

READ ALSO: Ghana’s foremost inventor launches G-Wagon like car

READ ALSO: Heart-melting moment Adekunle Gold's sister bursts into tears after seeing brother's face on billboards in London

However, this talented young man is one among several other Nigerians that have invented cars.

A while ago, NAIJ.com came across some pictures of a talented Nigerian man identified as Ahmadu Ibrahim, who created beautiful replicas of automatic cars. The man who is said to be from Badara region in Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi state, took to Facebook to show off the pictures of the cars.

PAY ATTENTION: Get the Latest Nigerian News on NAIJ.com News App

Get the hottest gist on Naija Uncensored Facebook Group

Is Nigeria Truly the Poorest Country in The World? Omisore - Ex-Lawmaker Speaks | Naij.com TV

Source: Naija.ng

- Insurgency ravaging the northeast of Nigeria is said to be largely over

- The governor of Borno state, Kashim Shettima, says with the current situation in the northeast as against three or four years ago, there is cause for celebration

- He says although there might be some hiccups, there is no cause for alarm

Governor Kashim Shettima of Borno state has said that the insurgency that has ravaged the state and other states in the northeast is largely over.

Vanguard reports that Shettima met behind closed-doors with the chief of staff to the president, Abba Kyari at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, on Tuesday, July 3.

NAIJ.com gathers that the governor said there was every need for celebrations if the current security situation in the state could be compared to the past situation.

Shettima said that the meeting was on the upcoming presidential visit as well as the Army Day celebration.

READ ALSO: Customs seizes 11 vehicles loaded with foreign rice

He said: “Well, the ongoing insurgency problem is largely over, we might be having some hiccups but when you compare the past with the present, we have every cause to celebrate. We have pockets of the insurgents in inlands around the Lake Chad and the Sambisa forest but when you juxtapose the sorry state of affairs three, four years ago and the current situation we are in, I think there is cause for celebration. There is no cause for alarm.”

PAY ATTENTION: Install our latest app for Android, read best news on Nigeria’s #1 news app

Meanwhile, NAIJ.com previously reported that Governor Kashim Shettima of Borno state said on Thursday, October 5, 2017 that 52,311 children in the state were orphaned by Boko Haram insurgency in the northeast.

Shettima disclosed this in Maiduguri during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the state government, Fadama III and the World Bank (WB).

Boko Haram abducted my husband and the government forgot about him - on NAIJ.com TV

Source: Naija.ng

The police force in Lagos has arrested a gang of armed robbers who attacked a new generation bank customers and forcefully took the some of N250,000 from him. The police said that the some courageous community youths in the area where the scene happened chased the criminals and caught up with them.

An armed group of criminals in Badagry area of Lagos have been arrested by the police in the state for robbing a bank customer of N250,000.

Punch reported that the suspects were beaten by a mob on Friday, June 29, before they were taken to a nearby police station known as the Morogbo division.

READ ALSO: We cannot fix in 3 years what PDP failed to do in 16 years - Oshiomhole

According to reports, the suspects, Saka Ibrahim (25 years), Oni Kudaisi (35 years), Sodiq Dauda (28 years), and Taiwo Popoola (24 years) assaulted their victim, who had just withdrawn the money from the Agbara branch of a new generation bank.

The criminals allegedly grabbed the money, shot into the air to ward off residents in the area and fled on two motorcycles bought purposely for the operation.

However, things turned around for the robbers when some courageous youths, including motorcycle riders, chased and caught up with them somewhere known as Ibiye village.

The victim, who gave his name as Cletus, revealed that the four-man gang followed him from the bank down to where they attacked him.

Cletus said: “I withdrew the money on Friday at a branch of Access Bank at Car Wash bus stop. I boarded a bus which took me to Magbon. After I alighted and crossed the road, I heard someone saying, ‘That is the man we are looking for.’ One of them came towards me and tried to collect the money. A resident, who saw what was happening, raised the alarm that they were robbers.

“I held the man trying to collect my money and as we struggled, another member of the gang came, hit me, forcefully collected the money and shot into the air.

“As people heard the gunshot, they came out, mobilised and gave them a chase. I tried to run after them too, but I could not catch up because they were on motorcycles.”

A senior police officer stated that security operatives at the Morogbo division spearheaded by the divisional police officer, SP Adagba Johnson, blocked the road to prevent the suspects from escaping.

The police officer said: “Since people knew the robbers would pass in front of the police station, they called to alert the division. The DPO, upon getting the information, blocked the road with a team of policemen.

"When the suspects saw that the police had blocked the road, they made a U-turn and faced Magbon where they were coming from; they were caught between the mob and the police. They then diverted into a community called Ibiye.

“We discovered that they all lived in the area and thought they could easily escape since they knew the terrain very well. The police joined the residents and got them arrested.”

A youth leader, who was also an eyewitness identified as George Bush, told newsmen that the development was a usual one in the area. He said: “The boys seemed to have informants in the bank area. They go there at least twice a week to collect money from people.

“I saw them that day and when we tried to approach them, they brought out a gun. They collected the money and we chased them to Ibiye and got them arrested.”

The suspects, who were paraded at the Lagos State Police Command headquarters, Ikeja, on Tuesday, confessed to the crime, adding that the robbery was not their first attempt.

One of the robbers, Ibrahim, who claimed to be a welder, said he had gone on four operations with the gang. He confessed that he made between N30,000 to N40,000 from each operation.

Ibrahim said: “A man called IB gave us the gun. I met him at Oko Afo bus stop. He owed me N10,000 and asked me to add N10,000 to it to collect the gun. One TJ gave us information about bank customers that we robbed of their money, but he has fled.”

Another suspect, Kudaisi, an indigene of Ondo state, said he followed the gang for the operation because he needed the money for his cobbler business. He said: “I followed them to rob because I needed money for my cobbler work. This is my second operation. I was given N2,000 after the first robbery.”

The third suspect, Dauda, an indigene of Oyo State who claimed to be a motorcycle rider, said he usually took members of the gang to robbery scenes.

He confessed: “I have taken them only twice. After the first operation, I was given N15,000. This is my second operation with them.” The fourth suspect, Popoola, claimed that he went into robbery because he was homeless.

PAY ATTENTION: Get the Latest Nigerian News Anywhere 24/7. Spend less on the Internet!

Edgal Imohimi, the state commissioner of police, said the force recovered from the suspects one locally-made double-barrelled pistol loaded with two live cartridges and a Bajaj Boxer motorcycle.

He noted that the stolen N250,000 was also recovered and added that they would be prosecuted at the end of investigations.

Meanwhile, NAIJ.com reported that operatives of the Intelligence Response Team (IRT) of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) had arrested five more suspects in connection with the deadly robberies of five banks in Offa town, Kwara state on April 5, 2018.

The five persons were arrested within the week with the help of leaders of the robbery gang who were recently moved back to southwest from Abuja to help the police in their investigation and to help them recovering firearms used in the robberies.

Nigeria News: Offa Bank Robbery - The Untold Story (NAIJ EXCLUSIVE) | NAIJ.com TV

Source: Naija.ng