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JUST IN: Finally, FG Bows To Pressure, Sets To Release Nnamdi Kanu

Published

6 months ago

July 9, 2024

By Emmanuel Agaji

Finally, the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration is reportedly under intense pressure to release Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

Naijablitznews recalls Kanu has been in federal government custody since June 2021, after his extradition from Kenya.

Sources within the government indicated that Kanu may be released soon. However, the terms of his potential release remain undisclosed.

The presidency officially refused to comment on the development when contacted last night.

However, sources in the presidency told Daily Trust that the leaders from the South East geopolitical zone have the right to ask for the president’s intervention on the matter.

South-East Leaders Intensify Lobbying

Political leaders from the South-East geopolitical zone have intensified lobbying efforts to secure Kanu’s release in the past few weeks. This includes several meetings and open appeals to the government.

The pressure from the zonal leaders, which transcends political party affiliation, has seen both legislators and chief executives of the five states in the region unite in seeking a political solution to the impasse, which has led to economic and social crises in the zone.

The situation has resulted in hundreds of lives lost since IPOB declared a sit-at-home order on Mondays across the zone, enforced by its paramilitary wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN).

Federal Government’s Stance

The federal government, through the office of the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, refused to divulge its plans, stating that commenting on the matter would be sub judice.

However, Daily Trust gathered that the governors of the five states would soon meet the president to formally present their resolution.

At the end of a meeting on July 2, attended by Governors Hope Uzodinma of Imo, Alex Otti of Abia, Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra, Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi, and host Peter Mbah of Enugu State, the governors resolved to interface with the federal government to secure Kanu’s release.

A day after the Enugu meeting, senators from the region, under the aegis of the South East Caucus of the Senate, met with the AGF.

Their leader, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, revealed that aside from pleading for Kanu’s release, the Caucus submitted a passionate letter to President Tinubu.

Abaribe noted that unless Kanu is released, social and economic activities in the South-East zone would continue to suffer.

He lamented that the peaceful demand of Kanu had been hijacked by hoodlums and criminals, leading to the killings of innocent people, including security operatives.

The South-East Caucus in the House of Representatives also announced their support for Kanu’s release.

A statement signed by 43 lawmakers, including Deputy Speaker Benjamin Okezie Kalu (Abia), Deputy Minority Whip George Ozodinobi (Anambra), Caucus Leader Enwo Igariwey (Ebonyi), Deputy Leader Nnolim Nnaji (Enugu), and Secretary Miriam Onuoha (Imo), emphasized that a political solution remains one of the quickest ways to restore peace in the region.

Legal Perspectives and Possible Outcomes

Renowned constitutional lawyer Professor Auwalu Yadudu stated that if the government could extract a commitment from South-East leaders, it could enter a ‘nolle prosequi’—discontinuing the trial.

Professor Seyi Akinseye-George (SAN) added that an out-of-court settlement would require a political decision by authorities.

Barrister Chukwudi Igwe suggested a legal leeway that could be exercised by the President through the AGF to withdraw the charges.

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WATCH Your Family Lawyer Podcast on YouTube tomorrow

Published

3 hours ago

January 10, 2025

Kayode Sanni-Arewa

The second edition of Your Family Lawyer will hit the airwaves tomorrow (Saturday) precisely by 9.am.

Join Barrister Chinye Chuma, a veteran lawyer marshall out issues laced with court verdicts and how victims can resolve such knotty legal matters.

Watch introductory clip below;

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FemyWalsh Limited Makes History: Appoints Chief Julie Coker as Africa’s Oldest Female Journalist (Photos)

Published

3 hours ago

January 10, 2025

Kayode Sanni-Arewa

In a groundbreaking move that underscores its commitment to inclusivity and excellence, FemyWalsh Limited has proudly announced the appointment of Chief Julie Coker, an 85-year-old trailblazer in African journalism, as part of its esteemed team.

This historic milestone cements FemyWalsh Limited’s position as a leader in championing diversity and recognising the value of experience across generations.

Chief Julie Coker, a celebrated icon in the media world, brings decades of experience, insight, and unparalleled expertise to the organisation. With a career spanning over six decades, she has been instrumental in shaping the narrative of African journalism, inspiring generations of journalists with her dedication, resilience, and pioneering spirit.

“Chief Julie Coker is not just a journalist; she is a living legend,” said Victor Walsh Oluwafemi, Chief Executive Director of FemyWalsh Limited. “Her contributions to journalism and storytelling have left an indelible mark on the industry. By welcoming her to our team, we are reaffirming our belief that greatness knows no age. This appointment is a testament to our commitment to inclusivity, diversity, and celebrating talent in all its forms.”

This is not the first time FemyWalsh Limited has demonstrated its dedication to inclusivity. Over a year ago, the organisation made headlines by employing a 74-year-old veteran journalist, setting a precedent for valuing experience and diversity. Chief Julie Coker’s appointment further elevates this legacy, marking a significant achievement not only for FemyWalsh Limited but also for Africa’s media landscape.

Chief Julie Coker will now join FemyWalsh Media, which operates Souq News Television, The Isle 104.9 FM Lagos, and the soon-to-launch Kasuwa Radio 99.7 FM, based in the ancient city of Kano. The addition of Kasuwa Radio reflects FemyWalsh Limited’s commitment to expanding its reach and promoting quality broadcasting across Nigeria.

Speaking on her appointment, Chief Julie Coker expressed her gratitude and excitement:
“I am deeply honoured to join FemyWalsh Limited, a company that values experience and continues to break barriers. I look forward to contributing my wealth of knowledge and being part of an organisation that is paving the way for inclusivity and innovation in the media industry.”

Chief Julie Coker’s role at FemyWalsh Limited will focus on mentoring the next generation of journalists, enhancing storytelling strategies, and promoting initiatives that celebrate Africa’s rich media heritage.

FemyWalsh Media’s growing portfolio of outlets underscores its dedication to reshaping the media landscape in Africa by combining innovation with inclusivity. This historic appointment serves as a beacon of inspiration for organisations worldwide, proving that experience and age are invaluable assets in fostering progress and creativity.

About FemyWalsh Limited
FemyWalsh Limited is a leading media organisation committed to driving inclusivity, innovation, and excellence in the media industry. With ownership of Souq News Television, The Isle 104.9 FM Lagos, and the soon-to-launch Kasuwa Radio 99.7 FM Kano, the company continues to inspire through its groundbreaking initiatives and unwavering commitment to diversity.

For media inquiries, please contact:
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FemyWalsh Limited
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Afenifere demands concrete action from S’West governors on banditry

Published

3 hours ago

January 10, 2025

Kayode Sanni-Arewa

The pan-Yoruba socio-cultural organisation, Afenifere, on Thursday, called on South West Governors to take the security of their areas more seriously in view of the latest revelation concerning the new influx of bandits into the region.

Afenifere disclosed this in a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Jare Ajayi, in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital,

PUNCH Online reports that the Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde while speaking at the 2025 annual inter-faith service for workers held at the Secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan, on Monday, disclosed that bandits being dislodged from the North-West of Nigeria are infiltrating his state.

The Governor had said, “During a security briefing this morning, I learned that some bad elements from the North-West are relocating here due to military heat in their zones.

“To underscore the seriousness of the issue, the governor related his own personal experience when he observed his quiet birthday ceremony at Fashola near Oyo Alaafin towards the end of last month.

“During my birthday retreat in Fashola, bandits had camped less than two kilometres from where I was staying. This underscores the seriousness of the situation.”

Howeve, Afenifere stated that a disclosure of this nature coming from the Chief Security Officer of a state is not something to be treated with levity.

It, therefore, called on all the governors of the South-Western States to “as a matter of urgency, hold a meeting to map out strategies to expel the bandits from the region and to ensure that such elements do not infiltrate Yorubaland at any time again.

“For these objectives to be achieved, there is the need to carry certain groups along. These are the security agencies that will implement whatever security decisions are reached, traditional rulers and heads of local vigilantes known as ‘Ode’.”

Ajayi added that whatever strategies were devised should include functional, up-to-date equipment for those who would be on the fields, attractive incentives and the deployment of modern technologies to assist in identifying the bandits and their hideouts.

While urging security agencies and citizens not to take the issue of security lightly, Ajayi concluded by saying that traditional rulers and community leaders in different parts of Yorubaland should not keep quiet whenever they notice any indication suggestive of security threat.

It added, “For example, until the governor made the revelation on Monday, such grave security danger was unknown to members of the public, yet there are people living in Fashola area where the bandits were reported to have established a camp. It is not unlikely that similar camps could be found in some other parts of the South West, hence the need for urgent and effective action.”