By Kayode Sanni-Arewa

Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State and his predecessor, Chief Samuel Ortom, exchanged words over the weekend regarding a thanksgiving event held in Agidi, Konshisha Local Government Area, to honour the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume.

The event, also organised to celebrate the 50th birthday of Dr. Matthias Byuan, an Executive Director at the Federal Housing Authority, was attended by prominent figures, including Chief Ortom.

However, Governor Alia’s Chief Press Secretary, Sir Tersoo Kula, in a statement about the event, accused Ortom of poor leadership during his tenure from 2015 to 2023.

The statement criticised Ortom’s administration for alleged financial mismanagement, unpaid salaries, and stalled infrastructure projects.

It also accused Ortom of using divisive rhetoric and signing unproductive agreements during his governorship.

But in response, Terver Akase, a spokesperson for Chief Ortom, dismissed the allegations as unprovoked attacks.

Akase argued that Ortom’s attendance at the thanksgiving should not incite political controversy and called on Governor Alia to focus on governance, contending that pressing issues, such as insecurity and community development, are areas in need of urgent attention.

Ortom’s camp further criticised the Alia administration for receiving higher federal allocations without matching the expectations of citizens in addressing security and developmental challenges, urging the governor to prioritise the concerns of Benue residents rather than target political opponents.

Daily TRUST

By Kayode Sanni-Arewa

Nasir El-Rufai, former Governor of Kaduna State, has asked Nigerians to disregard report about his defection to PDP saying it’s a patent lie.

The unconfirmed defection report ignited widespread discussions online, with many speculating about the political implications of such a move in Kaduna State’s evolving political landscape.

However, El-Rufai swiftly took to his official X account to set the record straight.

“Please disregard the patent lies and rumours about my political affiliation. I have referred the lead peddlers of the fake news for further action by my lawyers,” he wrote.

El-Rufai’s firm rebuttal and threat of legal action indicate his commitment to countering what he described as “fake news” designed to mislead the public.

The former governor’s political future has been a subject of keen interest, following his tenure marked by bold reforms and controversial policies.

While the defection rumor has been debunked, it now puts more scrutiny on the next political trajectory for El-Rufai.

As discussions continue, all eyes remain on El-Rufai for any official announcements regarding his next political moves, though for now, his stance on party affiliation remains unchanged.

By Kayode Sanni-Arewa

An Osun man who was sentenced to death over the theft of a fowl has recounted his harrowing experiences in prison, calling for urgent reforms in the criminal justice system.

He began by emphasizing that he harbors no ill feelings toward the judge or anyone involved in his case, but he highlighted systemic failures that led to his ordeal.

Sharing his insights, he urged the police to act with responsibility and civility in their duties. “The police should thoroughly investigate and weigh the level of an offense before rushing to try suspects in court. Not everyone will have the grace of coming out of such experiences with a good heart or improved character,” he said.

He stressed the importance of reforming individuals accused of minor offenses instead of exposing them to hardened criminals in prison. “I have seen many instances where people jailed on trumped-up charges or for minor crimes became hardened criminals after leaving prison,” he revealed.

The former inmate described the predatory behavior of long-term convicts, who often exploit vulnerable newcomers, particularly minors. “Some hardened criminals, who have spent 25 to 30 years in jail, prey on these innocent minors. They manipulate them with small items like tea or garri and force them into acts of sodomy,” he disclosed.

Hunger and lack of support make young inmates easy targets. “These minors often fall for these tricks because they are hungry and have no one to help them. Sadly, this exploitation occurs frequently,” he added, urging police and courts to consider the long-term implications of incarcerating young offenders alongside hardened criminals.

Prison Conditions

Discussing the prison conditions, he highlighted overcrowding as the biggest challenge. “The congestion is severe. Fifty inmates are crammed into a room meant for ten people. We sleep like fish packed in a carton, with every inch of space measured for each person,” he explained.

He expressed concern for innocent individuals who remain imprisoned without hope of release. “Many people have spent over 30 years in prison and are due for freedom, but they have no one to help them. I pray to be a voice for their liberation,” he said passionately.

The man concluded by urging the justice system to ensure fair trials, proper investigations, and alternative measures for minor offenses. He called for improved prison facilities to preserve the dignity and rights of inmates, especially the vulnerable.