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Alleged Cyberbullying: Court remands former MFM Chorister, Ayotunde Richards in prison

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12 months ago

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By Francesca Hangeior

Justice Ambrose Allagoa of the Federal High Court sitting in Ikoyi, Lagos State, has ordered that Ayotunde Richards, a gospel singer and former member of Mountain of Fire and Miracle Ministries (MFM), should be remanded at Ikoyi Custodial Centre.

This is pending the hearing of Ayotunde Richards’ bail application scheduled for Wednesday.

His counsel, Mr Adesina Ogunlana told reporters on Monday that his client was charged and arraigned before the court earlier in the day.

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“Ayotunde Richards will be brought back to the court before Justice Allagoa on Wednesday for his bail application.

“Also today, he was at the Lagos High Court, Ikeja for his own case before Justice D.T. Olatokun. That was for his fundamental human rights application and that was adjourned to April 29, 2024,” Ogunlana said.

The Nigeria Police Force had filed charges against Ayotunde Richards over a petition from Davidson Adejuwon, who is a lawyer and reportedly an aide to the MFM church founder, Dr Daniel Olukoya.

In the petition, the lawyer accused Ayotunde and others of sundry acts of cyberbullying and making libellous claims against Olukoya.

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Davidson filed the petition as counsel for one Mrs Sanni, an aide to Olukoya reportedly saddled with the cleric’s social media concerns about Olukoya.

The petition was not filed on behalf of Olukoya.

Ayotunde Richards had also filed a suit against the General Overseer of the church, Pastor Olukoya, over an alleged breach of his fundamental human rights.

Other respondents in the case are Davison Olaniran Adejuwon Esq; Superintendent of Police Tawose Ayoleyi Ajayi and the Nigeria Police Force.

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Olukoya, Davidson, Ajayi and the Nigeria Police Force are the 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th Respondents respectively.

Ayotunde who was the leader of the cleric’s backup singers alleged that Olukoya him locked up at the Federal Criminal Investigation Department (FCID), Alagbon, Ikoyi for eight days.

He described his detention by the police as illegal, oppressive and a brazen abuse of power.

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ECOParl: 1st Deputy Speaker Commends President Tinubu’s commitment to Regional Stability, Economic Integration

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3 hours ago

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March 4, 2025

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By Gloria Ikibah

The First Deputy Speaker of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Parliament and Deputy President of the Nigerian Senate, Senator Barau Jibrin, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his exemplary leadership and unwavering dedication to the advancement of the West African region.

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Senator Barau who described President Tinubu, who is also the Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, as a beacon of inspiration to all in the subregion, stated this at the opening ceremony of the 2025 First Extraordinary Session of the ECOWAS Parliament on Monday in Lagos.

Senator Barau acknowledged the ECOWAS Parliament’s deep appreciation of President Tinubu for his strategic vision and commitment to regional stability, economic integration and democratic governance.

He described the President as a “beacon of inspiration” and a “pillar of progress and cooperation,” whose leadership has strengthened regional solidarity and instilled confidence in the collective aspirations of West Africa.

“His leadership has paved the way for a more prosperous and resilient West Africa. The ECOWAS Parliament remains deeply grateful for his continued support and guidance,” he said.

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Senator Barau also expressed the regional parliament’s gratitude to the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu for hosting the 2025 First Extraordinary Session of the ECOWAS Parliament.

In restating the Regional Parliament’s commitment to integration, Senator Barau emphasised the importance of cooperation, unity and development among member states.

“Through our collaborative efforts and decision-making, we can strengthen our region, working together towards shared goals that advance prosperity and progress. Let us remain steadfast in our commitment to general unity, cooperation and progress,” he said.

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Tax Reform: Speaker Abbas Assure Youths Will Be Considered

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3 hours ago

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March 4, 2025

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By Gloria Ikibah
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rep. Tajudeen Abbas has assured the various youth groups that their input will be factored in the review of the proposals ahead of their passage of the Tax Reform Bills by the parliament.
Speaker Abbas who was represented by Rep. Leke Abejide (ADC, Kogi), stated this at the National Youth Dialogue on Tax Reform Bills on Monday in Abuja.
According to him, the Tax Reform Bills is a catalysts of economic growth and national progress.
“These bills will prepare the country to be economically viable, technologically independent of other nations,” he said.
In his welcome address, Chairman House Committee on Youths in Parliament, Rep. Ayodeji Alao-Akala said the review of the nation’s tax laws has become necessary to address contemporary challenges in fiscal policies.
Chairman noted that young people, particularly those engaged in micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), are among the most affected by taxation policies.
Naijablitznews.com recalled that last week, the Senate and House of Representatives held public hearing on the Tax Reform Bills transmitted to the parliament in October 2024 and pledged their readiness to review the proposed legislation in the country’s interest.
He said: “If we get it right with the youth, we get it right with the country, Iurge young Nigerians to contribute meaningful ideas to the bill”
Rep. Alao-Akala sad that most low-income earners in Nigeria are youths, struggling to start businesses, rent homes, or make financial progress.
According to him the proposed tax reforms aim to ease this burden by ensuring fairer policies that support entrepreneurship and economic independence.
The Chairman insisted that delaying reform any further would be detrimental, emphasizing that “tomorrow never comes; the time to act is now.”
Similarly cross section of youth groups at the Public hearing, backed the tax reform bills currently under consideration by both chambers of the National Assembly.
One of the Groups, Alumni Association of the Legislative Mentorship Initiative commended the Federal Government proposals, saying that if implemented, the reforms are capable of changing the nation’s economic narrative.
“This proposed legislation is not merely a collection of fiscal policies; it is a blueprint that will shape the economic trajectory of our nation and more importantly, directly impact the lives of our youth, who largely represent the present and future of Nigeria,” representative of the association, Abubakar Tijani said.
He called for a balanced exchange of views, adding that as good as the bills were, there were areas of uncertainty that needed some clarity for the benefit of Nigerians.
“As we engage in this critical discourse, we must approach the subject with a balanced perspective, acknowledging the bill’s potential benefits while also addressing its areas of concern. Our collective goal must be to ensure that this legislation fosters inclusive growth, empowers our citizens, and lays a solid foundation for sustainable development,” Tijani added.
He listed the positives of the tax reform proposals to include company income tax reduction, support for small businesses, personal income tax relief and VAT exemptions on essential goods and services, among others.
“One of the most notable features of the bill is the proposed reduction in the Company Income Tax rate. The current rate of 30 per cent is set to decrease to 27.5 per cent in 2025, with a further reduction to 25 per cent by 2026. This measure is designed to stimulate business growth, enhance corporate profitability, and attract both domestic and foreign investments.
“By lowering the tax burden on companies, the government aims to encourage reinvestment, innovation, and job creation, all of which are critical for economic expansion. For the youth, this could translate into increased employment opportunities and a more vibrant private sector.
“The bill also introduces a significant exemption for small businesses with an annual turnover of ₦50m or less. These enterprises will no longer be required to pay income tax, a move that alleviates financial pressures on small-scale entrepreneurs and fosters a culture of entrepreneurship.
“Another laudable aspect of the bill is the exemption of workers earning ₦800,000 annually or less from personal income tax. This measure provides much-needed relief to low-income earners, many of whom are young professionals just starting their careers.
By increasing disposable income, the government is not only improving the standard of living for these individuals but also stimulating consumer spending, which is a key driver of economic activity,” he added.
That said, Tijani pointed out grey areas which require legislative intervention given the nation’s fragile economy.
“The bill proposes a gradual increase in the VAT rate, starting from the current 7.5 per cent to 10 per cent in 2025, 12.5 per cent in 2026, and 15 per cent by 2030. While this measure is intended to boost government revenue, it could have adverse effects on consumers.
“An increase in VAT often leads to higher prices for goods and services, which could erode purchasing power and exacerbate inflationary pressures. For the youth, who are already grappling with high unemployment rates, this could further strain their financial circumstances. It is essential to consider the broader implications of this policy on the cost of living and economic stability.
“Another concerning provision is the plan to cease funding for critical agencies such as the Tertiary Education Trust Fund, National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure, National Information Technology Development Agency by 2030.
“These agencies play a pivotal role in advancing education, technology, and innovation, sectors that are indispensable for youth development and national progress. TETFUND, for instance, has been instrumental in improving infrastructure and quality in tertiary institutions, while NASENI and NITDA have driven technological innovation and digital transformation. Cutting funding to these agencies could hinder their ability to deliver on their mandates, thereby hindering progress in areas that are crucial for the youth and the nation’s future.
“The bill also proposes imposing taxes on businesses operating in Free Trade Zones. These zones have historically enjoyed tax exemptions as an incentive to attract investments and stimulate economic activity. By introducing taxes, the government risks deterring investors and undermining the competitiveness of these zones.
“This could lead to reduced economic activity, job losses, and a decline in foreign direct investment. For the youth, who often benefit from employment opportunities in these zones, this could have far-reaching implications,” he further said.
The association recommended the retention of the current VAT rate and urged the Federal Government to continue to fund agencies like TETFUND, NASENI and NITDA which he said are needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving global economy.
In its contribution, the Centre for African Policy Research Advisory, called for the involvement of Nigerians in the implementation of the bills when they are eventually passed into law.
Speaking on behalf of the Centre, Segun Adebayo emphasised the need for the protection of the nation’s tax sovereignty.
“Tax sovereignty refers to a nation-state’s right to control its tax policies. It is closely tied to a country’s ability to govern effectively and democratically,” he said.
One of the lead partners in the dialogue, Project Sprint, in its contribution, said the bills hold the potential to reduce the budget deficit, decrease government dependence on borrowing, curtail tensions across socioeconomic strata, and attract foreign investments.
Coordinator of the group, Isreal James in his speech, pointed out areas of concern in the proposed reforms, saying, “One critical aspect to consider is the microeconomic implications of personal income tax on labour supply.
“Many youths in Nigeria fall within the wage bracket of 70,000 to 150,000 naira per month. Taxing this demographic could have detrimental effects, especially for those on the verge of paying off academic loans and starting their lives.
“As we navigate the modern era, it is crucial to recognise that services such as telecommunications and digital transactions are essential. To disregard these services as non-essential would be a step backwards in our progress.
“We advocate for a reduction in VAT to between 3.5 per cent and 5 per cent to better reflect our GDP per capita. While encouraging states to compete economically to improve their VAT collection is commendable, it is equally important for the Federal Government to empower states to effectively manage their economies. One way to achieve this is through the decentralisation of port construction, ensuring that states have the necessary infrastructure to thrive,” he said.
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Ekiti Court sentences 47-yr-old cleric to life imprisonment for defiling 13-yr-old girl

Published

6 hours ago

on

March 3, 2025

By

By Kayode Sanni-Arewa

An Ekiti State High Court, Ado Ekiti Division, on Monday sentenced a 47-year-old cleric, Prophet Adeleye Akingbaso, to life imprisonment for defilng a 13 years old girl.

The convict was arraigned in September 2022 on a two-count charge bordering on rape and coercion.

The charge read, “The Prophet, sometime in July 2022, at Ado-Ekiti, did rape a 13-year-old girl. Also, in July 2021, Prophet Adeleye coerced the victim to engage in a sexual act to the detriment of her physical and psychological well-being.

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“The offences are contrary to Section 31(2) of the Child’s Rights Law, Cap. C7, Laws of Ekiti State, 2012 and Section 4 of the Ekiti State Gender-Based Violence (Prohibition) Law, No.18 of 2019,” the charge stated.

In her testimony before the court, the victim, who described the cleric as a friend to her mother and was sleeping over in their house, said that the man committed the act one night when her mother was on night duty.

She said, “He woke me up at midnight and said I bedwetted, which was strange to me. He brought out a bottle of shea butter and rubbed it on my vagina; that was all I knew. I later discovered I had been raped that night. He threatened me that he would curse me and I would die if I told anybody.

“He came to our house again on the following day when my mother was not around. I was in the kitchen, and he told me he wanted to complete what he started the previous night. He attempted to rough-handle me, but I escaped and shouted for help, following which our neighbours came to my rescue. They called and informed my mother of the incident. She came home and later reported the case to the police”, the victim said.

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To proof his case, the prosecutor, Taiwo Ariyo, called four witnesses and tendered the statement of the victim and medical report as exhibits, while the defendant, who spoke in his own defence through his lawyer, Adelanke Akinrata, called no witness.

In the court judgment, Justice Blessing Ajileye found the cleric guilty on the two counts.

Ajikeye said, “In conclusion, this court has found the defendant guilty on the two-count charge of rape and coercion and convicted him accordingly. This will serve as a deterrent to others in the class of the defendant who has not been caught up by the nemesis of law.

“On count one (rape), the defendant is sentenced to life imprisonment and on count two (coercion), the defendant is sentenced to three years imprisonment. Justice Ajileye pronounced that both terms are to run concurrently.

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