By Kayode Sanni-Arewa

The Kwara State High Court sitting in Ilorin has sentenced three artisans to death by hanging for the murder of one Saheed Lawal, a fellow artisan in Offa Community, Offa Local Government Area of Kwara State.

The three artisans sentenced by Justice Adebayo Yusuf are Isiaka Jimoh, Lekan Ahmed, and Adebayo Saheed—who were mechanics in the Amuyo area of Offa. The court found them guilty of causing the death of Saheed Lawal.

They were prosecuted by the Kwara State Ministry of Justice for the killing, which occurred on 5 November 2020 at a mechanic workshop near Government Day Secondary School in Amuyo, Offa.

The trio were tried on a four-count charge filed before the court on 9 February 2022 by the Kwara State Director of Public Prosecutions, Ayoola Akande. They faced charges of conspiracy and culpable homicide, both punishable by death.

According to the charge sheet, the defendants conspired to commit culpable homicide, an offence under Section 221 of the Penal Code, CAP. P4, Laws of Kwara State.

They were also accused of attempting to commit culpable homicide by pouring hot red pepper into the ears of another artisan, Hamzat Ibrahim, at the same workshop in Offa.

The first to third defendants were represented by Barrister Bodunrin Adewole, Dr A. S. Ishola, and Prince J. O. Ijaodola, respectively.

Delivering judgment, Justice Yusuf stated that the prosecution had called eight witnesses during the trial, while the defendants testified on their own behalf and called three additional witnesses.

The court heard that “on the day of the incident, Saheed Lawal, a motor mechanic whose workshop was located at the mentioned address, was accused by the first and second convicts (Isiaka Jimoh and Lekan Ahmed) of stealing motor oil.

“They, along with the third convict, Adebayo Saheed (also known as Eje), tortured Lawal until he lost consciousness,” a witness further told the court.

Dr O. M. Abdulsalam, the Chief Medical Director of the State General Hospital, Offa, and one of the prosecution witnesses, testified that he had “pronounced Saheed dead on arrival at the hospital after conducting a series of medical examinations on him.”

In his judgment, Justice Yusuf stated that the evidence before the court established that the three defendants were responsible for the death of Saheed Lawal, who had been their fellow artisan at the same workshop in Offa.

“I found the evidence provided by the prosecution witnesses to be credible and was convinced beyond reasonable doubt of the defendants’ responsibility for the death of Saheed Lawal.

“Consequently, the three defendants are found guilty of the charges against them and are sentenced to death by hanging. They are to die by hanging until they take their last breath. May God have mercy on them,” Justice Yusuf declared.

Mr Lere Olayinka, Senior Special Assistant to the Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT) on Public Communications and Social Media said Gov. Douye Diri of Bayelsa’s security alarm over a rally is baseless.

Diri had on Thursday raised an alarm over an alleged plan by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike’s supporters in Bayelsa to stage a mega rally and inaugurate the support group.

Disturbed by the development, Diri warned that the state government would not condone any act that would disrupt the peace of the state.

The governor advised security agencies, youths, elders and traditional rulers to be on the alert.

Reacting, Olayinka in a statement in Abuja on Friday, said Nigerians were free to express their support for anyone, anywhere and anytime.

The spokesman wondered why Diri, with all the security apparatus available to him could go on national television on mere suspicion of people planning a rally.

According to him, it is within the right of Nigerians to hold a lawful rally.

He added that if Wike was going to attend any political rally in Bayelsa or anywhere, he would inform security agencies himself.

“It is surprising that a governor had to call the state’s Security Council and Bayelsa Elders Council meetings to discuss a suspicion of people planning a rally for Wike,” he said.

Olayinka advised Diri to face the serious business of governance and stop raising a baseless security alarm over a rally.

By Kayode Sanni-Arewa

Traveling abroad is an exciting experience, but without the right documents, your travel could end before it even begins.

Whether you’re heading out for vacation, business, studies, or relocation, having the proper paperwork is crucial to avoid delays, deportation, or outright denial of entry. Different countries have different entry requirements, so it’s important to plan ahead and ensure all necessary documents are in place.

For Nigerian travelers, certain travel documents are mandatory regardless of the destination, while others depend on the purpose of travel and the country’s visa policies.

Here are seven essential travel documents needed for international trips:

International Passport
Your Nigerian international passport is the most important document for international travel. Issued by the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS), it serves as your official identification abroad. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months before your travel date, as many countries enforce this rule. Without a valid passport, you won’t be able to leave Nigeria or gain entry into another country.

Visa (If Required)
A visa grants you permission to enter a foreign country, but it is not always needed. Some destinations offer visa-free entry or visa-on-arrival for Nigerian passport holders. Before traveling, check the visa requirements of your destination country and apply in advance if necessary.

Vaccination Certificates
Many countries require proof of vaccination against certain diseases, especially COVID-19 and yellow fever. These certificates are issued by the Nigerian Port Health Service and are essential for entry into several destinations. Without them, you may be denied boarding or entry.

Hotel/Accommodation Confirmation
Immigration officers often ask for proof of accommodation, such as a hotel booking confirmation or an invitation letter from a host if you’re staying with family or friends. Having this document readily available can make immigration clearance smoother.

Proof of Funds
To ensure that travelers can sustain themselves financially during their stay, many countries require proof of funds. This can be in the form of:

Bank statements (covering the last 3-6 months)

Sponsorship letters (if someone else is funding your trip)

Proof of employment or business ownership

Work or Study Documents (If Applicable)
If you are traveling for work or study, additional documentation is required, such as:

A work permit or employment contract for job-related travel.

An admission letter and a valid student visa for study abroad programs

Return Ticket & Travel Insurance
Many countries require proof of a return or onward ticket to ensure that travelers do not overstay their visa. Travel insurance, while not always mandatory, is highly recommended as it provides coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage, giving you peace of mind during your journey.