28YR OLD MAN IN POLICE NET FOR RAPE, STEALING AND ATTEMPTED MURDER

        A 28yr old man Godday Robinson was on the 24th of April 2020 arrested by operatives of Ogun State Police Command for rape, stealing and attempted murder of a 17 yr old girl (name withheld).

        The suspect was arrested following a report received by the policemen attached to Agbara area command that a young lady was lying unconscious in a ten feet deep pit in a nearby bush.

           Upon the report by the good Samaritan, the area Commander Agbara detailed his men to the scene where the young lady was rescued with the help of members of the public and she was quickly taken to an hospital.

            Having regained her consciousness, the victim explained to the police that on the 22nd of April, while she was coming from night duty which she performed in the company where she works, the suspect who has been making advances to her before accosted her, capitalized on the isolated nature of the area and dragged her into the bush where she forcefully raped her, dispossessed her of her Galaxy Samsung phone valued at #85,000and then strangled her until she passed out momentarily.

Having believed that she is dead, he dragged her further into the bush and dumped her into the pit .

       After sometime, she came back to life and started shouting for help.

On the strength of her explanation, the area Commander ACP Bolanle Muritala gave a matching order to his detectives that the suspect must be traced and apprehended.

The detectives swung to action immediately, traced the suspect and got him arrested on the 24th of April 2020.

        On interrogation, the suspect made a confessional statement and own up to the commission of the crime but blamed it on the devil.

       Meanwhile the commissioner of police CP Kenneth Ebrimson has ordered the immediate transfer of the suspect to state criminal investigation and intelligence department for further investigation and deligent prosecution.

SCHEDULED COLLECTION OF PROCESSED PASSPORTS AND FRESH    ENROLMENTS
Following the Federal Government’s directive on phased and gradual easing of lockdown in Lagos and Abuja from Monday 4th May 2020, the Nigeria Immigration Service will commence the following services from:
 (a) Monday 4th May 2020 to 15th May 2020, collection of cleared Passports at the Service Headquarters Abuja and all the Passport Offices nationwide, unless the states that are experiencing complete lockdown in view of their peculiar situation and the State government’s position on COVID-19. Only applicants invited by SMS through their mobile phones are expected to turn up on the scheduled dates.
(b) 18th May 2020, there shall be gradual enrollment for only enhanced Passports at the following locations that issues it: Immigration Service Headquarters Abuja, Ikoyi, Alausa, Kano Main Passport Office and Port Harcourt.
(c) 25th May 2020, all Passport Offices Nationwide are to operate a gradual processing and enrollment with strict compliance with social distancing, wearing of facemasks, and use of hand sanitizers.
2. The whole Passport operation should be done in compliance with National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) standard.
3. All services at our Diplomatic and Consular Missions will be directed by the respective Missions based on country situation.
4. The Comptroller General therefore stressed that all Passport Officers, their staff and the applicants comply with NCDC standard to avoid further spread of COVID-19 from person to person.
                                                   
Signed
DCI Sunday James pcc
Service Public Relations Officer
For: Comptroller General of Immigration

We are not the ones.

e attention of Ondo Police Command has been drawn to a virile pictorial publication of a purported assault on a nurse by officers of Ondo Police Command. The publication is not only rude at this time of pain in our society but a complete defamation of the ethics of an organisation giving out its best for the sake of our lives and property.
Going by the lack of investigation and the dereliction of facts by some journalists sprawling our social media space, Ondo Police Command would not have reacted to the said publication, knowing that falsehood is basically their stock in trade, but for the inclusion of a renowned body as the National Association of the Nigerian Nurses and Midwives, Ondo State Chapter, joining the argument, we have no compunction but to state the facts of the matter precisely the way they are in order to correct this wrong perception created in the minds of well-meaning Nigerians at home and in the diaspora who may have come across this saddened picture.
Introduction of the case:  This deals with a case of lone serious motorcycle accident which occurred on April 22, 2020 at about 2050 hours at Ebute road, opposite Erika Pharmaceutical store, Ode-Irele involving one Red Qlink unregistered motorcycle with chassis number Qlk pckkjijd009847 ridden by one Friday Morris ‘m’ of Gbele street, Ode-Irele and a passenger seating, Mrs. Ajape Modupe, ‘f’ of General hospital, Ode-Irele.
To ascertain the facts that there is nothing to cover up as alleged by  the National Association of the Nigerian Nurses and Midwives, and that the case has nothing to do with officers of Ondo Police Command, except that they received the complaints and acted accordingly, here are the statements of some principal actors in the story.
Mrs. Modupe Ajape, the pillion said, she received an emergency call to return to the Hospital on the night of April 22, 2020 at about 2020 hrs, and that she took a bike, on their way they were stopped by a team of Community policing men and after identifying herself as a nurse they were let go. It happened a second time, but at the third time they met another group who threw a stick at the motorcycle conveying her and in an attempt by the rider to dodge the stick he lost control, resulting to the accident
Friday Morris, the rider of the motorcycle had this to say. That at about 2030 hrs, the victim boarded his motorcycle to General Hospital, Ode-Irele. That along the way he saw some vigilante and stopped the bike to enable his pillion explained herself as there was a curfew, they were allowed go, but as they were leaving  the Vigilante, some boys he cannot identify threw a stick at his bike which made him lose control that resulted in their accident.
3. Bayode Johnson, a member of the Vigilante group and the owner of the unregistered motorcycle, averred that he was on duty with other members of his group when the accident happened, and that being the leader of the Vigilante he volunteered his bike to convey the victims to the hospital. He also said they only tried to stop the rider who was on top speed but they never cause of the accident.
We have put these facts as succinctly as we can to enable you judge where our actions or inactions amount to harassment, brutalization and are therefore trying to cover up.
The Commissioner of Police, Ondo State Command, CP Undie Adie, psc+, has constantly made it clear to all citizens and residents of Ondo State that the Police under his supervision would remain friendlier to all, while urging those with the intent to destroy the cordial relationship the people of Ondo State have with the Police Command to recognize the enormous tasks ahead of us all to meet the challenges of COVID19 and stop their campaign of calumny.

ASP Tee-Leo Ikoro
Police Public Relations Officer
Ondo Police Command.

*POLICE BURST A ROBBERY SYNDICATE WHO SPECIALISES IN HIJACKING TRUCKS LOADED WITH CEMENTS*

*Arrested four suspects and recovered a truck loaded with 900 bags of cements*

On the 26/3/2020 at about 5:30am there was a report that a Howo truck with Registration number AAA 715 YA loaded with 900 bags of Cement belonging to BUA Cement Company Okpelle was snatched by a robbery syndicate at Uromi village in Edo State and the Truck was diverted towards Anambra State by the suspects after allegedly inflicting deep matched cuts on the driver leaving him unconscious.

Following the report,Police Operatives attached to Head bridge Division in conjunction with the Command Special Anti Robbery Squad     (SARS)quickly mobilised to Onitsha Headbridge and intercepted the truck leading to the arrest of the following Suspects,

(i) Anayo Ulugha 'm' aged 26 years of Orlu in Imo State,
(ii) Omoke Chigozie 'm' aged 28 years of Orlu in Imo State and,
(iii) Joseph Agu 'm' aged 24 years of Omuma, Imo State.

Suspects voluntarily confessed to have snatched the truck same date at about 4:30am and was heading to Imo State before they were intercepted.

Consequently,the suspects further led Police detectives  to Orlu in Imo State where their gang leader one Chinonso Onuigbo 'm' aged 44years of Orlu in Imo State was also arrested.

It would be recalled that similar incident took place few months ago between Onitsha - Owerre Road in Anambra State before the Commissioner of Police *CP John B.Abang,fdc* ordered for intensive patrols along that axis thereby forcing the syndicate to flee the State because of tight security measures put in place by the Command.

Meanwhile,exhibits recovered from the suspects includes,the snatched truck,900 bags of Cements and a machete which they allegedly used to attack the truck driver.Case under investigation after which Suspects would be charged to Court for prosecution please.

*SP Haruna Mohammed,PPRO* Anambra State Police Command,
For-Commissioner of Police Anambra State Command.

–  POLICE ARREST 3 KIDNAPERS,KILLERS OF A CATHOLIC SEMINARIAN                           


-  IGP orders massive manhunt for fleeing suspects



Police Operatives have arrested a deadly criminal gang responsible for the kidnap and murder of a Catholic Seminarian, Nnadi Michael of the Catholic Good Shepherd Major Seminary at Gonin Gora, Kakau in Chikun LGA of Kaduna State. Recall that, on January 9, 2020, the criminal gang stormed the Catholic Seminary and kidnapped four (4) seminarians, murdered one of them in cold blood and released the remaining three on 31st January, 2020, having obtained a ransom. The remains of the fourth Seminarian were found in a bush where abandoned.



The suspects: Tukur Usman ‘m’ aged 37, father of 7, Shehu Bello ‘m’ aged 40, father of 5 and Mustapha Mohammed ‘m’ aged 30, father of 1, all of Igabi LGA of Kaduna State were arrested after several months of intensive and extensive intelligence-led operations by crack detectives of the Intelligence Response Team (IRT).

Discreet investigations so far reveal that the arrested suspects are part of a 19-man gang that also carried out the kidnap of Dr Phillip Ataga’s wife and two daughters on January 24, 2020 at Juji Community in Chikun LGA of Kaduna State. Mrs Ataga was killed by the gang following her heroic resistance to the despicable and inhuman attempt by the leader of the gang to rape her. The suspects after killing her released the daughters and corpse of the slain woman to the family after collecting ransom.


Further investigations reveal that the same criminal gang is responsible for the kidnap of six students and two teachers of Engravers College, Chikun LGA, Kaduna, from their school premises on October 3, 2019.



The suspects, known to belong to a hybrid terrorist criminal network causing untold havoc in North-Central, Nigeria, have confessed to several other random operations along Abuja-Kaduna Expressway where they kidnapped, killed and robbed motorists, collecting ransom and valuables running into millions of naira.


The Inspector-General of Police, IGP M.A Adamu, NPM, mni while reiterating that the Force will remain unrelenting in ensuring that crimes across the country are reduced to the barest minimum, assures the nation that the Force will not rest until the other members of the gang also responsible for the above crimes, but currently on the run, are apprehended and brought to book.




DCP FRANK MBA

FORCE PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER

FORCE HEADQUARTERS

ABUJA

HERBALIST, TWO OTHERS IN POLICE CUSTODY FOR USING A 7YR OLD BOY FOR RITUAL

 

       A herbalist, Lajuwon Ogunleye, his wife Adetutu Apalaya and one Fatai Sefiu were on the 22nd of April 2020 arrested by operatives of Ogun State Police Command for alleged conspiracy and murder of a seven year old boy Pelumi Apalaya for ritual purpose.

      The suspects were arrested following an information received by the police at Abigi divisional headquarters that the seven year old boy who didn't show any sign of sickness suddenly slumped and died and this arouse the suspicion of people around that the boy might have been used for ritual.

     Upon their suspicion, the people around started monitoring the herberlist who incidentally happened to be the step father of the deceased boy and his wife who is the mother of the boy.

         Unknown to them, they were monitored to the bush where they took the victim to for burial in company of the third suspect who is a friend to the herberlist and the boy was buried in an upright position after removing some parts from his corpse.

       This confirmed the suspicion of the people and they quickly informed the police.

      Upon the information, the DPO Abigi division SP Tarkighir Joseph led his men to the bush in iwopin area of ijebu waterside where the suspects were rounded up. They led policemen to where the victim was buried and it was discovered that the deceased was buried in standing position.

     On interrogation, the second suspect Fatai Sefiu told the detectives that the boy was actually used for ritual by the stepfather in connivance with the deceased boy's mother. He stated further that the couple have reached a conclusion before he was coopted into the business.

     The mother of the victim Adetutu Apalaya who first denied having knowledge of her husband plan to use her son for ritual was dumbfounded when asked whether or not she followed them to the bush where her son was buried and the mode of burial of the boy.

Meanwhile, the commissioner of police CP Kenneth Ebrimson has ordered the immediate transfer of the case to homicide section of the state criminal investigation and intelligence department for further investigation and prosecution.

Police arrest pastor's son for murder. 

By Patience Ogbo 

Policemen attached to the Makinde Police station in Lagos State have arrested one Habeeb said to be in his twenties for allegedly stabbing one Taiwo Eluyemi  to death.

It was gathered that Eluyemi was allegedly murdered  while trying to separate to men fighting at 7 , Taiwo Street Mafoluku Oshodi.

The corpse is said to be  lying at the counter of the Makinde Police Station. The suspect is at Makinde Police Station.

A source Mr. Ebenezer of the Advocates For Children and Vulnerable Person Network ACVPNsaid " both men had issues some time ago and it was resolved before this present saga.

He thought he could get away with murder showed that the deceased and the perpetrator had issues yesterday over Watching of TV of the  deceased frowns at the way the perpetrator flood his apartment with his friends and this was settled amicably yesterday.

Today the deceased was said to have gone to pick his son from the church unknowingly to him the perpetrator was already going to his house to carry out this evil act.

The mother of the suspect is said to be a prophetess who make use of a shop as a Church on  1 Mosaku street, off owoseni street Oshodi a source added. 

Meanwhile Mr. Ebenezer has decry the increase cases of violence against children and others due to the lockdown and stay -at - home order as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Stressing the need for government to care for the masses especially persons in the informal sector in the group's quaterly report read 

"The lockdown has created a lot vacuum in so many ways, there are positives side of the Lockdown and there are negative Sides of the lockdown.

The positive side of the lockdown is a two way thing, 

" it was an opportunity for family bonding , Time to rest, reflect on things to achieve during the year, how to overcome unforseen challenges ahead.

Most importantly positive aspect of the lockdown is our children , the lockdown revealed what parents are truly are , the missing gap in the lives  of our Children.

Children are overtly very happy to have their parents around them for a long period as this."

"The negative side of the lockdown brought out the monster in most family ranging from increased beating, child abuse incident , spousal Domestic Abuse, Neighbors killing each other, Landlord, Landlady defacing their tenant with everlasting scare and regrets.

Families are no longer able to feed due to the extension of the lockdown and probably it might continue with the recent agreement of the Governors to total National lockdown for two weeks.

We can't also shy away from the nefarious activities of some law enforcement officers who unduly took advantage of the lockdown as an excuse to extort unsuspecting victims , gladly the Agencies hierarchy were able to address such situations as a result of public Outcry"

The report stated that sex offenders are taking advantage of the lockdown to prey on children therefore there must be efforts to stop this ugly trend. 

" Globally issues bothering on Child Abuse incidents, Domestic Abuse incidents has tripled from what it used to be,  due to frustration , economic down turn which had a serious adverse effects on the people.

Most hit in Nigeria are those in the informal sector which result to increase of transfer of aggression to their spouse , their children  and loved ones.

Sex Offenders are on the loose ,due to the Covid 19 pandemic, some irresponsible parents are now pushing their daughters into transactional Sex all in the bid to keep body and soul" 

Giving a breakdown of the various crime and sex of victims .

Below are cases of Child Abuse reported ,Referred and handled by ADVOCATES For Children and Vulnerable persons Network ACVPN

 January to March 2020.

👇👇👇

January

Sex Abused

Male 4 Age 5-6

Female 14 

Age Range 1-2--3-4-6-8--12-14-15

Physical Abuse Male 1

Female 3 , Age Range 10-14-17

Trafficking 

Male2, Female 6 

Age Range 10-11-12-14-15-16-18

Child Labour 

Male 0 ,  Female 1

Age Range 8

Total: 31

February 2020

👇👇👇

Sexual Abuse

Male: 2, Female 14

Age Range:3-7-8-10-12-13-14-15-16-17

Physical Abuse Male 1, Female 1,

Age Range 12

Neglect Male 0 Female 1

Age Range 11

Child Labour Male 0 Female 2

Age Range 13, 14.

Abduction Male 0 Female 1

Age Range 4

Missing Child Male 1 Female 0

Age Range 4

Total 23

March 2020

👇👇👇

Sex Abuse Male 0 Female 4

Age Range 4-8-12-14

Physical Abuse Male 7 Female 2

Age Range 7-8-9-10-11-12-17

Neglect Male 3 Female 3

Age Range 8-9-10-14-15-17

Abandoned Male 1 Female 1

Age Range 9-15

Chronic sickness Male 0 Female 1

Age Range 5

total 22

Overall Total

76

 cases of various Child abuse cases recorded, handled along with sister Agencies.

The next phase report would based on Gender based violence report GBV.

COMPTROLLER GENERAL OF IMMIGRATION RESUMES DUTY AFTER TESTING NEGATIVE TO COVID-19 :The news of the resumption of duty of the Comptroller General of Nigeria Immigration Service Muhammad Babandede MFR after the expiration of his leave period  after initial testing positive to Covid-19, isolation and treatment in line with the NCDC directive and subsequent testing negative twice after the 14 days isolation, treatment before his discharge. 2.The CGI Babandede resumed duty after recovery and medical clearance on testing negative twice, during the break he receives briefs online and directs accordingly with much to do with respect to national assignments as the Comptroller General of Nigeria Immigration Service saddled with the Control of Entry and Exit into and out of the country, enforcement of the Federal government directives with respect to the restriction order on International travels through the Airports, Closure of Land Borders, and Control of seaports human mobility and traffic of  passengers and crew members on vessels, ships that falls within the category cleared as essential shipments for the economy or critical requirements that supports the government fight against Covid-19, the service has engaged all its Commands at the Air, Sea and Land Borders to step-up operations for the Control and management of human mobility, refusing entry of non-Nigerians who have no business with government in provision of critical services as stipulated by government in the restriction orders from coming into the country and allowing Nigerian returnees back to the country by handing them over to state ministry of health, WHO officials at the entry points  to be subjected to NCDC compliance in line with the Medical procedures stipulated for every arriving passenger from outside the Country to curtail importation and possible spread of Covid-19, the Control measures at the Entry and Exit points has helped in the government fight to stop the spread and ensure the well-being of Nigerians and other citizens residing in Nigeria. 3.The Comptroller General of Immigration appreciates the level of Compliance by International flight Carriers on the International Flights restrictions and Closure of Land Borders, as well as the Seaport  Command Control as directed by government, while encouraging  the NIS Operatives to keep the tempo high without compromising National Security and Safety regulations as stipulated by NCDC and WHO. DCI SUNDAY JAMES PCC, SERVICE PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER, FOR :COMPTROLLER GENERAL OF IMMIGRATION SERVICE. 21st April 2020.

Covid-19: travelers allegedly paying N10,000  bribe to  security operatives at checkpoints for easy passage. 

By Patience Ogbo

Security operatives manning checkpoints on major highways on interstate roads  in Nigeria are allegedly receiving bribe to allow vehicles into states 

Information gathered shows that the security operatives   are allegedly smiling to the banks as they are forcing motorists to part with amount ranging from N10,000 to N50,000 following the sit-at - home  order by the federal government locking down  Lagos, Ogun  and the Federal Capital Territory.  

Following the order, other state governments have also closed the borders into their states ,a move that have prevented free movement of persons and goods.

As the effects of the lockdown takes its toll on citizens, some Nigerians have taken steps to relocate from states  especially Lagos and Ogun States due to hunger and violence to their villages where they feel they will be safer and  have food to eat. 

This movements though not safe is a risk they have chosen but it comes with a price. The huge price involves travelling at night and bribing security operatives at  various check points.

Investigation reveals that the travelers are allegedly  paying security operatives manning the various checkpoints with  monies raging from N10,000 to N50,000 as the case may be.

A traveler who simply identified himself as Joseph said "I had to travel to Enugu state with my family members due to the lockdown. I decided to move two days after the federal government announced the restriction of movement. I left Ibadan for my home in Enugu state with  my private car. My family was with me. When we got to Onitsha bridge, we met a check point. Policemen and soldiers were manning the checkpoints. There were alot of vehicles parked , not allowed to climb the bridge. We asked what the matter was and we were told that the security men were not allowing vehicles to cross expect those giving them bribe. We went closer and found out what amount they want and they said N50,000. I told them I have N10,000 but they said I should go and wait somewhere that  I was not ready to continue with my trip. My family and I had to stay for long time until they collected the money and we were allowed to move. That was not the only checkpoints we gave money "

Another passenger Oche Adeyi said " I was staying in Abuja when the government announced the lock down. I had a wedding to attend. It was my sister's wedding so i decided to take the risk to go house during the Easter celebration. I heard trailers were allowed to travel at night so i went to stand by the highway roadside and i got one trailer. Unknown to me , there were other young men in the trailer with their bags.  We started the journey but at every check point the driver was settling the security men by parting with money at checkpoints from Abuja down to Benue. When I asked him, he said he can settle with N50,000 just to get goods and people to their destinations". 

 One John Daniel in Alpha   blames the security personnel for the movement. He said " Policemen are looking for posting to Highway patrol Unit because that unit has become a juicy posting overnight. This is despite Inspector General of Police IGP Adamant Mohammed issuing a stern warning to persons traveling during the lockdown order but his men and other security officers are aiding the travelers". 

Covid-19: travelers allegedly paying N10,000  bribe to  security operatives at checkpoints for easy passage. 

By Patience Ogbo

Security operatives manning checkpoints on major highways on interstate roads  in Nigeria are allegedly receiving bribe to allow vehicles into states 

Information gathered shows that the security operatives   are allegedly smiling to the banks as they are forcing motorists to part with amount ranging from N10,000 to N50,000 following the sit-at - home  order by the federal government locking down  Lagos, Ogun  and the Federal Capital Territory.  

Following the order, other state governments have also closed the borders into their states ,a move that have prevented free movement of persons and goods.

As the effects of the lockdown takes its toll on citizens, some Nigerians have taken steps to relocate from states  especially Lagos and Ogun States due to hunger and violence to their villages where they feel they will be safer and  have food to eat. 

This movements though not safe is a risk they have chosen but it comes with a price. The huge price involves travelling at night and bribing security operatives at  various check points.

Investigation reveals that the travelers are allegedly  paying security operatives manning the various checkpoints with  monies raging from N10,000 to N50,000 as the case may be.

A traveler who simply identified himself as Joseph said "I had to travel to Enugu state with my family members due to the lockdown. I decided to move two days after the federal government announced the restriction of movement. I left Ibadan for my home in Enugu state with  my private car. My family was with me. When we got to Onitsha bridge, we met a check point. Policemen and soldiers were manning the checkpoints. There were alot of vehicles parked , not allowed to climb the bridge. We asked what the matter was and we were told that the security men were not allowing vehicles to cross expect those giving them bribe. We went closer and found out what amount they want and they said N50,000. I told them I have N10,000 but they said I should go and wait somewhere that  I was not ready to continue with my trip. My family and I had to stay for long time until they collected the money and we were allowed to move. That was not the only checkpoints we gave money "

Another passenger Oche Adeyi said " I was staying in Abuja when the government announced the lock down. I had a wedding to attend. It was my sister's wedding so i decided to take the risk to go house during the Easter celebration. I heard trailers were allowed to travel at night so i went to stand by the highway roadside and i got one trailer. Unknown to me , there were other young men in the trailer with their bags.  We started the journey but at every check point the driver was settling the security men by parting with money at checkpoints from Abuja down to Benue. When I asked him, he said he can settle with N50,000 just to get goods and people to their destinations". 

 One John Daniel in Alpha   blames the security personnel for the movement. He said " Policemen are looking for posting to Highway patrol Unit because that unit has become a juicy posting overnight. This is despite Inspector General of Police IGP Adamant Mohammed issuing a stern warning to persons traveling during the lockdown order but his men and other security officers are aiding the travelers". 

Exclusive .Covid- 19 : Hoodlums  rob ,rape women in Ogun Community.

By Patience Ogbo

 Residents of kugbonmire Street behind Expect God School and environs in Mowe community in Ogun State said armed hoodlums have taken over their community for the past three days.
The residents said they are living in fear  at the time of this report as  hoodlums about 100 in number are laying siege in their streets.
The hoodlums according to residents are allegedly  breaking into houses and  demanding for food,  money and raping women.
They added that residents who are obeying the Stay- at-Home directives of the government have been under attack since on Monday.
A resident Mrs. Ajala Ojo said " We have been under attack since Monday. I could not call to inform anyone because my mobile phone is bad. I just managed to get to my neighbors to use their phone to call my family. These boys are attacking houses and streets with dangerous weapons. They are asking for food and money but when they cannot get anything, they resort to raping women. As I am talking to you now, about 100 of them are on my street at Ikugbonmire where I reside with my children. I am looking for every means to relocate because the attacks are scaring me and my children have been crying. I locked my doors and we are quiet inside our room as if nobody is in the house. Policemen came and threw tear gas but the hoodlums returned fire with guns shots and stones. The policemen left and came back later with more men".
Another resident pastor Kenny said " Attacks have been going on in Mowe. These boys have been attacking residents in Mowe in the last three days. They come out in the afternoon to rob residents  staying at home and their attacks have spread to Ofada. Landlord in Shomeke Obafemi-Owode  are staying up to watch over their community so that these boys will not attack us".
Effort to get the reaction of the Ogun State police spokesperson DSP Abimbola Oyeyemi was not successful.
When contacted, the commissioner of police in the state CP Kenneth Ebrimson said " There is nothing of such happening there. My DPO is on ground and he told me there is nothing happening.Let the person calling you also call me".

Exclusive .Covid- 19 : Hoodlums  rob ,rape women in Ogun Community.

By Patience Ogbo

 Residents of kugbonmire Street behind Expect God School and environs in Mowe community in Ogun State said armed hoodlums have taken over their community for the past three days.
The residents said they are living in fear  at the time of this report as  hoodlums about 100 in number are laying siege in their streets.
The hoodlums according to residents are allegedly  breaking into houses and  demanding for food,  money and raping women.
They added that residents who are obeying the Stay- at-Home directives of the government have been under attack since on Monday.
A resident Mrs. Ajala Ojo said " We have been under attack since Monday. I could not call to inform anyone because my mobile phone is bad. I just managed to get to my neighbors to use their phone to call my family. These boys are attacking houses and streets with dangerous weapons. They are asking for food and money but when they cannot get anything, they resort to raping women. As I am talking to you now, about 100 of them are on my street at Ikugbonmire where I reside with my children. I am looking for every means to relocate because the attacks are scaring me and my children have been crying. I locked my doors and we are quiet inside our room as if nobody is in the house. Policemen came and threw tear gas but the hoodlums returned fire with guns shots and stones. The policemen left and came back later with more men".
Another resident pastor Kenny said " Attacks have been going on in Mowe. These boys have been attacking residents in Mowe in the last three days. They come out in the afternoon to rob residents  staying at home and their attacks have spread to Ofada. Landlord in Shomeke Obafemi-Owode  are staying up to watch over their community so that these boys will not attack us".
Effort to get the reaction of the Ogun State police spokesperson DSP Abimbola Oyeyemi was not successful.
When contacted, the commissioner of police in the state CP Kenneth Ebrimson said " There is nothing of such happening there. My DPO is on ground and he told me there is nothing happening.Let the person calling you also call me".

Covid-19 : NGO urges government to  extend  stimulus package beyond the provision of food

By Patience Ogbo 

A non governmental organization International Center for Human Rights NonViolence and Safety Awareness has called on the government to extend its palliatives  beyond the provision of food.

The NGO stated this in a press release on Friday signed by the Chief Executive Officer  Barr. Ene Unobe.

The statement read 

"As part of our Vision to raise awareness on humanitarian issues where necessary and providing best

professional advice on emerging human rights and safety issues and having carefully monitored and reviewed 

approaches adopted so far by state and federal  Government in containing the spread of

COVID-19 in Nigeria, we wish to appreciate the humanitarian efforts of the Nigerian Governments, Federal 

Ministry of Health, Lagos State Government,  NCDC, Individuals,

 Private Sectors community leaders, NGOs and other Stake Holders in curtailing the COVID-19 

pandemic in Nigeria through donation and other types of supports for NCDC" 

 It is no longer news that the world is facing dire health challenges with the pandemic called COVID-19.Weeks have passed and Nigeria, like other countries, has taken steps aimed at halting the spread of the virus.

One of such steps is the forced lockdown of the country's social, economic, and other spheres of interpersonal relationships in order to combat the spread"

The NGO urged government to look at the need to give directives that will affect the lives of the common man on the street. 

" It is obvious that government’s "restriction of movement order" which includes the directive for citizens to stay at home (in order to contain the spread), is in good faith. This lockdown, no doubt, is taking its toll on individual, and families' efforts to meet basic  obligations such as feeding, clothing, shelter, business and other contractual commitments including but not limited to rent, bank loans, health insurance,  etc. it is a notorious fact that, in Nigeria, one gainfully employed individual feeds not less than ten others. 

While some in the formal or organized private sector can still manage to eke out monthly salaries and, maybe, other incentives to their employees, those in the informal medium and small scale businesses are finding it very difficult to make ends meet. There is no gainsaying that petty traders among other poorest of the poor, depends on daily hustling for their "daily bread".  This lockdown means there is nothing to look up to. They therefore cannot but rely on government’s promise of economic relief and palliatives.

Without delving into the adequacy (or lack of it) of the promised incentives, it is my submission that food supply cannot satisfy the direct and indirect losses of this category of Nigerians. Good as this basic necessity is, other disruptions occasioned by this sudden clampdown have to be looked into by government in order to properly manage the lockdown order and the post-COVID 19 socio-economic upheavals that will erupt such as unpaid rents,accumulating bank charges,bank loans, loss of jobs,school fees and other forms of indebtedness or financial obligations.

As a human right activist, our organization has been inundated with communications by distressed Nigerians who have started falling victim of assorted economic problems associated with this unforeseen shutdown. As we write, these pressures and agitations are becoming unbearable and may force otherwise law-abiding citizens into lawlessness thereby causing social disequilibrium"

The NGO stated that for government to impact the lives of Nigerians beyond the provision of food and health care, there is the need for government to

 "Give directives that landlords should observe moratorium on payment of rents for at least three months starting from April 2020.As a consequence, law suits by landlords on recovery of premises at this time should be discouraged for the same period of time.Contractual obligations to banks and other financial institution on loans should be relaxed.

 Government's rates and taxes that directly impact on the poor and private sector should be suspended or reduced to the barest minimal for the time being.

Massive financial support for the organized private sector to enable them pay salaries of their staff and other operational cost.

Protection of workers in the private sector from employers who may take undue advantage of the pandemic and lockdown order to sack workers without compensation.

Give directive to security agents to protect the human rights of every citizen and punish officers who have gone beyond their brief.

Give directive to citizen to avoid any form of domestic and sexual violence especially during this lockdown period.

In this regard we commend the moves by the National Assembly and States House of Assembly to cause a 2-month moratorium on payment of electricity charges by Nigerians.

These suggestions are in no way trail-blazing as some African countries like South Africa and Ghana are already in the tow.

We believe that our aforementioned suggestions will go a very long way in calming frayed and worried nerves of Nigerians as they will be more amenable to government directives that they should stay at home. 

We encourage Nigerians to STAY AT HOME.Engage in regular washing of hands , avoid  touching their eyes, nose, and mouth.Practice social (physical) distancing.Observe other guidelines and precautions by the World Health Organization (WHO), the Nigeria Centre for Diseases Control (NCDC) and other relevant government agencies.

As Professionals in Humanitarian and safety awareness, we shall continue to follow up 

on humanitarian developments and assist in providing updates on best professional strategies where necessary. 

We salute every Nigerian especially those at the front line  workers making sacrifices to safe lives and contain  this pandemic. 

Together we shall surely overcome." 

Covid-19 : NGO urges government to  extend  stimulus package beyond provision of food

By Patience Ogbo 

A non governmental organization International Center for Human Rights NonViolence and Safety Awareness has called on the government to extend its palliatives  beyond the provision of food.

The NGO stated this in a press release on Friday signed by the Chief Executive Officer  Barr. Ene Unobe.

The statement read 

"As part of our Vision to raise awareness on humanitarian issues where necessary and providing best

professional advice on emerging human rights and safety issues and having carefully monitored and reviewed 

approaches adopted so far by state and federal  Government in containing the spread of

COVID-19 in Nigeria, we wish to appreciate the humanitarian efforts of the Nigerian Governments, Federal 

Ministry of Health, Lagos State Government,  NCDC, Individuals,

 Private Sectors community leaders, NGOs and other Stake Holders in curtailing the COVID-19 

pandemic in Nigeria through donation and other types of supports for NCDC" 

 It is no longer news that the world is facing dire health challenges with the pandemic called COVID-19.Weeks have passed and Nigeria, like other countries, has taken steps aimed at halting the spread of the virus.

One of such steps is the forced lockdown of the country's social, economic, and other spheres of interpersonal relationships in order to combat the spread"

The NGO urged government to look at the need to give directives that will affect the lives of the common man on the street. 

" It is obvious that government’s "restriction of movement order" which includes the directive for citizens to stay at home (in order to contain the spread), is in good faith. This lockdown, no doubt, is taking its toll on individual, and families' efforts to meet basic  obligations such as feeding, clothing, shelter, business and other contractual commitments including but not limited to rent, bank loans, health insurance,  etc. it is a notorious fact that, in Nigeria, one gainfully employed individual feeds not less than ten others. 

While some in the formal or organized private sector can still manage to eke out monthly salaries and, maybe, other incentives to their employees, those in the informal medium and small scale businesses are finding it very difficult to make ends meet. There is no gainsaying that petty traders among other poorest of the poor, depends on daily hustling for their "daily bread".  This lockdown means there is nothing to look up to. They therefore cannot but rely on government’s promise of economic relief and palliatives.

Without delving into the adequacy (or lack of it) of the promised incentives, it is my submission that food supply cannot satisfy the direct and indirect losses of this category of Nigerians. Good as this basic necessity is, other disruptions occasioned by this sudden clampdown have to be looked into by government in order to properly manage the lockdown order and the post-COVID 19 socio-economic upheavals that will erupt such as unpaid rents,accumulating bank charges,bank loans, loss of jobs,school fees and other forms of indebtedness or financial obligations.

As a human right activist, our organization has been inundated with communications by distressed Nigerians who have started falling victim of assorted economic problems associated with this unforeseen shutdown. As we write, these pressures and agitations are becoming unbearable and may force otherwise law-abiding citizens into lawlessness thereby causing social disequilibrium"

The NGO stated that for government to impact the lives of Nigerians beyond the provision of food and health care, there is the need for government to

 "Give directives that landlords should observe moratorium on payment of rents for at least three months starting from April 2020.As a consequence, law suits by landlords on recovery of premises at this time should be discouraged for the same period of time.Contractual obligations to banks and other financial institution on loans should be relaxed.

 Government's rates and taxes that directly impact on the poor and private sector should be suspended or reduced to the barest minimal for the time being.

Massive financial support for the organized private sector to enable them pay salaries of their staff and other operational cost.

Protection of workers in the private sector from employers who may take undue advantage of the pandemic and lockdown order to sack workers without compensation.

Give directive to security agents to protect the human rights of every citizen and punish officers who have gone beyond their brief.

Give directive to citizen to avoid any form of domestic and sexual violence especially during this lockdown period.

In this regard we commend the moves by the National Assembly and States House of Assembly to cause a 2-month moratorium on payment of electricity charges by Nigerians.

These suggestions are in no way trail-blazing as some African countries like South Africa and Ghana are already in the tow.

We believe that our aforementioned suggestions will go a very long way in calming frayed and worried nerves of Nigerians as they will be more amenable to government directives that they should stay at home. 

We encourage Nigerians to STAY AT HOME.Engage in regular washing of hands , avoid  touching their eyes, nose, and mouth.Practice social (physical) distancing.Observe other guidelines and precautions by the World Health Organization (WHO), the Nigeria Centre for Diseases Control (NCDC) and other relevant government agencies.

As Professionals in Humanitarian and safety awareness, we shall continue to follow up 

on humanitarian developments and assist in providing updates on best professional strategies where necessary. 

We salute every Nigerian especially those at the front line  workers making sacrifices to safe lives and contain  this pandemic. 

Together we shall surely overcome." 

COVID-19: U.S. Repatriates 997 Americans Back Home

Lagos––The U.S. Mission in Nigeria has helped 997 Americans return home to reunite with family and friends during this time of unprecedented challenge posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. 

From April 6-8, three U.S. Consulate-organized chartered flights operated by Delta Air Lines and Ethiopian Airlines repatriated 850 American citizens from the Murtala Mohammed International Airport Lagos to the United States. This is in addition to the 147 U.S. citizens who departed Abuja on April 4.

These repatriation flights were made possible by a tremendous effort by the U.S. Consulate team and great cooperation from Nigerian partners, including the Ministry of Aviation, Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria, the Nigeria Immigration Service, and the Lagos State Government.

The State Department’s effort to bring Americans home during the COVID-19 pandemic has required a remarkable diplomatic and logistical effort. As of April 8, 2020, the Department of State has coordinated the repatriation of 50,339 Americans from 94 countries since January 29, 2020. 

United States Consul General Claire Pierangelo noted that in times of emergency, the United States Department of State has no greater priority than the safety and security of U.S. citizens overseas.

“This has been three weeks in the making. We had more than 50 people working on this on a daily basis to make sure that we can find the Americans, get the planes, secure flight clearances for the planes to land here and also ensure safe passage of the Americans traveling to the airport since the city is on lockdown. It was an enormous effort and I am incredibly proud of my team. We appreciate all the help from our Nigerian partners. We couldn’t have done this without them,” Consul General Pierangelo said.

She noted that U.S. Mission remains committed to working closely with the Government of Nigeria and the various health authorities to keep everyone healthy and safe amid the COVID-19 pandemic. 

The U.S. government has pledged more than $7 million in health and humanitarian funding to Nigeria in response to the pandemic that will go toward risk communication, water and sanitation activities, infection prevention, and coordination. This assistance joins more than $5.2 billion in health assistance and more than $8.1 billion in total assistance for Nigeria over the past 20 years.

The United States is providing nearly $274 million to help dozens of countries to combat the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), furthering America’s commitment to humanitarian assistance and global health.

U.S. citizens who remain in Nigeria seeking COVID-19 information are encouraged to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program at step.state.gov and check the U.S. Mission Nigeria website and social media handles for messages and updates.

POLICE ARREST MAN FOR ALLEDLY STEALING NEW BABY PLACENTA

 

A 43yr old man Joshua Abraham has been arrested by operatives of Ogun State police Command for stealing a new born baby placenta.

          The suspect was arrested following a report made by one Raliha Zakara the grandmother of the baby at Ibafo police station that the suspect who is her close neighbor came to the hospital where her daughter was delivered of the baby and pretended to be the father of the new baby, consequent upon which he demanded for the placenta from the nurse on duty and it was given to him.

          On getting the placenta, he took it away on the pretence that he was going to bury it. But when the grandmother got to the hospital and was informed that the suspect has taken away the placenta, she quickly confronted him, but he told the grandmother that he has buried the placenta. When the grandmother insisted that she should be taken to where he buried it, it was discovered that he has hidden the placenta but buried a dead rat.

          Upon the report, the DPO Ibafo division SP Abiodun Ayinde detailed his detectives to the scene where the suspect was arrested. It was discovered that the suspect has once been arrested for defrauding a police officer and a pastor of huge sum of money under the pretence of procuring Canadian visa for them and the case is been prosecuted in court. He has since taken the detectives to where he hid the placenta and it has been recovered.

          Meanwhile, the Commissioner of police, CP Kenneth Ebrimson has directed that a thorough investigation should be carried out and that the suspect should be charged to court as soon as possible.

COVID-19 –202 joggers charged to Court

Police Officers on enforcement of restriction of movements order arrested 202 suspects for violating the stay at home directives of Government. The suspects were arrested playing football on major streets and having group exercise in large number, which neglect the principles of social distancing.
The suspects were arraigned in Lagos State Special Offences (Mobile) Court on one count charge of violating the social distancing directives of Lagos State Government contrary to Regulation 8(1)( a) &(b) and 17(1)(i) of Lagos State Infectious Disease (Emergency prevention) Regulation 2020. It is an offence punishable under Section 58 Public Health Law Cap P16 Laws of Lagos State, 2015.
Among the suspects charged, one hundred and eighty nine pleaded guilty to the charge while 13 pleaded not guilty. At the end of the trial, the suspects were found guilty as charged and ordered to pay ten thousand naira each as fines. They are also sentenced to two hours community service, which was supervised by officials of social welfare.
 The suspects were arrested along Iju, Sabo, Ikeja, Itire, Ikotun, Ogudu, Akinpelu, Maroko, Alapere, Anthony, Orile, Owode Onirin and Ilemba Hausa areas. The suspects are within ages 15 and 42.  For information or complaints regarding non compliance call the following numbers

                                                                           

Govt frees over 2000 inmates over fear of Covid-19

information from Minister of Interior, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola on behalf of the Federal Government on Thursday at a World Press Conference announced the amnesty of inmates.

The affected inmates includes: Inmates that are 60 years and above.

Those suffering from ill-health likely to terminate in death.

Convicts serving 3 years and above who have less than 6 months to serve.

Inmate with mental issues.

Inmates with option of fine not exceeding N50,000.

In a symbolic gesture of the amnesty given to the 2,600 inmates across Nigeria, 41 Federal inmates and 29 FCT inmates making a total of 70 inmates who met the above criteria will be released today from the Kuje Custodial Centre in Abuja.

This amnesty will not apply to inmates sentenced for violent extreme offences such as terrorism, kidnapping, armed banditry, rape, human trafficking, culpable homicide and so on.

The governors of the 36 states under whose jurisdiction most of the inmates were incarcerated will complete the exercise in line with the federal principle.

Police arrest ASP,Sergeant for alleged  extortion
 By Patience Ogbo

Police in Lagos State Police Command said operatives have arrested some of it officials in a viral video allegedly extorting nigerians.
In a statement on Friday signed by Bala Elkana the command spokesperson read
" The attention of the  drawn to a video on social media in which a Lady alleged that her vehicles was impounded by the Divisional Traffic Officer (DTO) Agbowa Division and a female sergeant. She equally accused the officers of extorting money from her. After analysing the video, the officers mentioned were identified by our operatives and arrested. They are Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Adebayo Ojo and Sergeant Adeleke Mojisola. The Commissioner of Police Lagos State, CP Hakeem Odumosu psc has ordered an in depth investigation into the case. While appreciating the courage of the complainant and other well meaning citizens who forwarded the video to our social media page, the Command urged the complainant to take a further step by reporting at the Command Headquarters Ikeja to enable the Command conclude the investigation. The Commissioner of Police has reaffirmed his stance against corrupt practices and impunity. Members of the public will be updated on the outcome of the investigation.

COVID-19 - police arrest  Seventy eight alleged violators
----Over 600 vehicles impounded since the commencement of the lockdown enforcement in Lagos State. P

Police Officers on enforcement of restriction of movements order arrested 78 suspects in various parts of Lagos  for allegedly violating the stay at home directives of Government. The suspects were arrested playing football on major streets and having group exercise in large number, thereby neglecting the principles of social distancing. 

According the a statement by Bala Elkana spokesperson lagos state police command read that the suspects were arraigned in Chief Magistrate Court Yaba on one count charge of violating the social distancing directives of Lagos State Government contrary to Regulation 8(1)( a) &(b) and 17(1)(i) of Lagos State Infectious Disease (Emergency prevention) Regulation 2020. It is an offence punishable under Section 58 Public Health Law Cap P16 Laws of Lagos State, 2015.
3. Seventy  three of the suspects pleaded guilty to the charge while 3 pleaded not guilty. The Court ordered that all the suspects should be kept in Government Isolation Centres for 14 days and thereafter serve one month community service. The three suspects who pleaded not guilty will after observing the 14 days isolation, be brought to Court for trial.
4. The suspects were arrested along Bush street, Gbagada expressway, Ogudu, Iyana Iba, Ojo road, Ebute Metta, Asimowu street Itire and Ajegunle. They include: Meeks John 29 years old, Kingsley Jacob 28 years old, Anthony Fashanu 28 years old, Chukwuma Okwubaba 28 years old, Luke Eboro 43 years old, Kenneth Obasuyi 64 years old, Julius Joel 41 years old, Victor Tamund 38 years old, Egbo Nnamdi 40 years old, Fortune Sunday 26 years old, Faith Omoefe 24 years old, Abdulsalam Ahmed 27 years old, Rabiu Aslam 20 years old, Phil Omoefe 32 years old, Adetutu Adurogbanpa 30 years old, Gbadamosi Oluwakemi 30 years, Segun Joshua 24 years old, Amaka Chuks  28 years old, Edokpe Eric Emeka 37 years old, Ismaila Kareem 24 years old, Nduke Kingsley 22 years old, Barnabas James 48 years old, Adeleke Sunday  37 years old, Ibrahim Olaniron  26 years old, Daniel Oduma 31 years old, Bashua Oluwaseyi 45 years old, Folajin Ebunoluwa 21 years old, Folajin Feyi 59 years old, Joshua Oyenusi 30 years old, Adam Abdulrahman 25 years old, Ayomide Adenuga 20 years old, Omoniyi Oladayo 37 years old, Bamidele Stephen 47 years old, Chison Onwusoron 18 years old, Oloruntoba Aisha 31 years old, Obi Okoye 32 years old, Olagoke Onuoluwa 28 years old, Akeem Ikeoluwa 43 years old, Yakubu Musa 27 years old, Segun Michael 27 years old, Idris Abdulsalem 22 years old, Shittu Okikiola 26 years old, Adebayo Adewunmi 44 years old, Isiola kazeem 30 years old, Ojo Moses 21 years old, Nzube Nwaenyi 22 years, Kingsley Hosea 28 years old, John Christopher 22 years old, Saheed Lawal 34 years old, Chibuike Ogbor 31 years old, John Felix Adekanye 30 years old, Adekunle Peter 28 years old, Rilwan Babajide 18 years old, Bukola Oyekola 30 years old, Ubogu Kennedy 30 years old, Yusuf Lawal 25 years old, Olamide Wasiu 17 years old, Shares Isiaka 24 years old, Wisdom Edokpayi 34 years old, Duyilemi Micheal 34 years old, Ofen Francis 30 years old, Mukaila Babatunde 19 years old, Nwanga Sunday 28 years old, Chukwuma ifeadi 30 years old, Kareem Akeem 24 years old, Chibuzor Okonkwo 40 years old, Tosin Oluwadamilare 24 Years old, Zakariyu Mohammed 29 years old, Olasunkanmi Akanbi 37 years old, Babatunde Olafusi 40 years old, Idowu Amuza 25 years old, Kehinde Oke 20 years old, Dayo Adegoke 20 years old, Nachi Emeka 18 years old, Akpede Isaiah 19 years old, Akpede Joshua 17 years old, Akanbi Afeez 18 years old and Tosin Oluwadamilare 24 years old.
5. For information or complaints regarding non compliance call the following numbers 09010512285, 09010512286, 09010512287 and 09010512288.

                                                                           

TWO SUSPECTED CULTISTS ARRESTED FOR KILLING AN OPC MEMBER

 

Operatives of Ogun State police command on the 7thof April 2020 arrested two members of a deadly cult group who assassinated one Kolawole Ajomale a member of Oodua People’s Congress on the 5th of April 2020 in Ijebu-Igbo.

      According to a press release by the DSP Abimbola Oyeyemi the Ogun State Command Spokesperson,   the suspects Korede Pariosho and Jide Afolabi were arrested following an intelligent based investigation embarked upon by the detectives at Ijebu-Igbo division  led by DPO Sp Kazeem Solotan which led them to the hideout of the group where the duo were arrested and the gun they used to kill the victim was also recovered.

          The hoodlums had on 5th of April 2020 attacked their victim in his house situated at No.20 Odo Balogun Street Oke Sapen, in Ijbeu-Igbo where the deceased was shot on the head and stomach in presence of his pregnant wife, consequent upon which the victim died on the spot.

          Since then, police has been on their trail before they were finally apprehended following painstaking intelligence and technical investigation.

On interrogation, the two suspects confessed killing the deceased but they claimed to have done it in revenge of the death of one member of their cult group whom they alleged was killed by OPC men in 2017. They further confessed to have vowed since then that any member of OPC seen will be killed in vengeance of the death of their late colleague.

          Meanwhile, the Commissioner of police, Cp Kenneth Ebrimson has ordered the immediate transfer of the suspects to homicide section of the state criminal investigation and intelligence department for discreet investigation and prosecution.           

 

Police Impound 13 Vehicles over lockdown

The Commander, Rapid Response Squad (RRS) DCP Olatunji Disu this morning led a team of police officers to impound 13 vehicles in Alapere area of the metropolis for not complying with the Federal Government’s directive on the stay at home order just as the team dispersed a group of over 150 youth doing physical exercise in Ketu – Alapere.

The vehicles, which included three cars, seven buses and three 4-Wheel drives were caught carrying passengers and were without valid excuses of being on the road.

The Commander, who was leading a team of police officers on intensification of enforcement of COVID 19 stay at home to Lagos Island detoured at ketu - Alapere where a long queue of vehicles were making their way towards Ojota Bridge inward Ibadan.

The State Commissioner of Police, CP Hakeem Odumosu had yesterday evening directed the Commander, RRS and Area Commanders in the State to supervise and intensify enforcement of the Stay at home directives on COVID 19.

The Commander had earlier directed his men to disperse over 150 youths who had equally converged in front of Samuel Gbadebo Adegboyega Village beside The Apostolic Church, Alapere.

Some of the youths, who claimed to be residents of the village and Ketu - Alapere were in their large numbers doing morning physical exercises before the police got to the area.

After being addressed on the essence of the government’s stay at home order, some of the youth still refused to go home until the RRS Commander directed his officers to form a wall, walked the youth down the road before they eventually dispersed.

While vehicles with valid excuses and identifications were allowed passage, some of the buses that were arrested stated that they were heading to Ibadan with their passengers.

All the vehicles have been handed over to Alapere Divisional Police Station.

Police arraign actress Funke and hubby for organizing house party during convid- 19 lockdown
By Patience Ogbo

Funke Akindele and her husband were charged to Court for violating restriction orders in Lagos
On 6th April, 2020 at about 1100hours, Funke Akindele Bello and her husband Abdul Rasheed Bello were arraigned in Chief Magistrate Court 1 Ogba on one count charge. They were brought to Court by detectives from the State Criminal Investigation Department Yaba led by the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of investigation, DCP Yetunde Longe. The prosecuting team was lead by the Hon Attorney General of Lagos State, Moyosore Onigbanjo, SAN. The charge was read to the accused persons by the Court and they pleaded guilty. The Court found them guilty as charged and sentenced as follows: The defendants are to pay a fine of 100,000 each, sentenced to 14 days community service, three hours per day, excluding Saturday and Sunday; each Defender shall visit 10 important public places within Lagos State to educate the public on the consequences of non compliance with the restriction order; and they must submit the names and phone numbers of every person who attended the party. They shall be placed on isolation by the State Government to determine their COVID-19 status. Failure to abide by the above directives shall attract more severe punishments.
2. The brief facts of the case as contained in the charge are: On 04/04/2020, the two accused persons held a party at their residents with over twenty persons in attendance contrary to the social distancing directives made in pursuant to Regulation  8(1)(a) and (b) & 17(1)(i) of the Lagos State Infectious Disease (Emergency Prevention) Regulations 2020 and therefore committed an offence under Section 58 of the Public Health Law Cap P16 Vol. 9, Laws of Lagos State 2015.
3. The suspects were arrested by operatives of Lagos State Police Command following a viral video showing a large number of persons mainly in the entertainment industry in an Estate, along Ajah, Ibeju-Lekki axis, Lagos celebrating a birthday party organised by Funke Akindele Bello and her husband Abdul Rasheed Bello.
2. Azeez Fashola a.k.a Naira Marley is now in Police custody. He will also be charged to Court for violating the restriction orders. The Command  has launched a manhunt for the remaining persons who attended the party. The Commissioner of Police Lagos State Command, CP Hakeem Odumosu psc expressed his profound gratitude to Lagosians and other well meaning Nigerians that speak up against the violations. Together we can stop the spread of COVID-19.

NIGERIAN CIVIL SOCIETY GROUPS CALL FOR URGENT DECONGESTION OF POLICE CELLS AND CORRECTIONAL CENTERS

We, the undersigned civil society organisations spread across Nigeria, note with satisfaction the efforts by the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) to ensure the observance of social distancing at police stations in Nigeria as part of measures to check the spread of COVID-19 at the police stations. We note, in particular, the IGP's directives to State and Zonal commands to avoid unnecessary arrests and detention of persons in police cells except for serious (capital) offences. 

However, we note, with serious concern, that in some states, people are still held in police cells, some for bailable offences such as misdemeanors. And for suspects held for serious offences such as capital offences, Police are not able to charge them to courts because the courts are currently shut down. 

We also note that most states have no functional testing laboratories and isolation centres, and detainees in urgent need of medical attention in those states can't access healthcare. These ones are made vulnerable to more dangers than just the likely exposure to the deadly virus.

We call on the Inspector-General of Police to order state commissioners and Divisional Police officers to ensure urgent decongestion of cells by ensuring immediate release of persons still held in custody for minor offences.

We also call on the IGP to put in place mechanisms for effective monitoring of compliance with his directives against indiscriminate arrests and detentions and ensure consequences for non-compliance. If officers continue to make indiscriminate arrests after decongestion, the detention facilities will be congested again. 

We call on Chief Magistrates in states, in fulfilment of their obligations under the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) 2015,  and in compliance with the 2019 Practice Direction of the Chief Justice of Nigeria on visits to police custody facilities to embark on inspection visits to police stations within their jurisdictions with a view to ensuring the immediate release of detainees based on established criteria, to decongest the cells and  prevent likely infection and spread of Covid-19. We also recognise the need for Magistrates to be provided with protection kits to visit these places of detention.

We call on the Hon. Attorney- General and Minister of Justice, in liaison with State Attorneys General, to also initiate steps for audit of Police cells and correctional centres, including juvenile correctional facilities, to decongest them.

We are particularly concerned about the recent riot by prisoners in Kaduna correctional centre which, as investigation reveals, was sparked by protests over conditions in the prison and fears by the inmates about possible exposure to Covid-19 infection. We are also worried about reports of brutal repression of the riots and of torture, injuries and deaths.

If Kaduna's prison situation is not properly handled, it could have a boomerang effect on other correctional centres. We call for a thorough, impartial and independent investigation into the incident and the immediate release of all persons unlawfully or unnecessarily still held in custody, in particular those held on minor offences.

We call for the immediate provision for all detainees and prisoners,  information on the spread of the virus, urgent disinfection and distribution of sanitary materials to all holding facilities, and provision and access to  running water at each facility.

Signed:

1. Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC)

2. Spaces for Change (S4C)

3. Vision Spring Initiative, Lagos

4. Social Intervention Advocacy Foundation (SIAF) 

5. Echoes of women in Africa initiative

6. Women’s Right to Education Programme (WREP)

7. Rights Enforcement and Public Law Centre (REPLACE)

8. Women’s  Rights and Health Project (WRAHP)

9. Foundation for Justice and Rehabilitation of prisoners FJRP, Lagos

10. People Against Corruption and Injustice

11. Nde Oduko Foundation - NDOF

12. Sterling Centre for Law &Development

13. Partners West Africa- Nigeria

14. Safer World Foundation

15. Amnesty International Nigeria

16. Dorothy Njemanze Foundation(DNF).

17. Women Initiative for Leadership Strategy & Innovation in Africa (Women Africa)

18. Centre for Social Transformation and Human Develeopment (CHDST) 

19. Ace and Vanguard Legal Practitioners

20.Human Rights Advocacy Group Lagos.

21. Life Wire International Foundation

22. LEDAP - Legal Defence & Assistance Project 

23. Legal Defence Against Injustice Initiative

24. Lawyers Alert

25. Daniel Ukwu Leadership Foundation (Dulf) supported

26. PEP- Public Enlightenment Projects

27. Global Rights

28. Prisoners' Rehabilitation and Welfare Action (PRAWA)

29. Prisoners' Rights Advocacy Initiative (PRAI)

30. Lagos Civil Society Participation for Development (LACSOP)

31. Youth Advocates For Peace Justice And Empowerment Network (YAPJEN)

32. Centre for Transparency Advocacy, Abuja

33. Independent Advocacy Project IAP Lagos

34. Human Rights Social Development and Environmental Foundation (HURSDEF) 

35. Tap Nitiative For Citizens Development 

36. WILPF Nigeria

37. Avocats Sans Frontières France

38. CLEEN Foundation

39. Women Information Network (WINET)

40. Edo Civil Society Organisations

41. Media Initiative against Injustice, Violence and Corruption (MIIVOC)

42. House of Justice

43. Prison Fellowship

44.Democracy and Human Rights Network, DHRN

45. Community Agenda for Peace

46. Committee for the Defence of Human Right

47. Human Rights Watch

48. Alliances for Africa

49. NOPRIN

50. Nigerian Feminist Forum

51. CISLAC - Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre