Prof Utuama, a two-term Deputy Governor, served under the administration of former Governor Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan.

He was born on June 5, 1947, Utuama served as Deputy Governor to former Governor Uduaghan from May 2007 to May 2015.

It was reliably gathered that the ex-Deputy Governor died in Warri at the age of 78 after a protracted illness.

More later…

By Kayode Sanni-Arewa

After strike, the Federal Government has released funds to settle outstanding salaries owed to members of the Non-Academic Staff Union of Federal Universities and pay benefits to retirees under the Nigerian Union of Pensioners Contributory Pension Scheme.

In a statement on Saturday by Bawa Mokwa, Director, Press and Public Relations, the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation confirmed that payments to NASU members have commenced, with many already confirming receipt.

The statement read, “The Federal Government has released funds for payment of withheld salary of Non-Academic Staff Union of Federal Universities.

According to the OAGF, the Federal Government has also released funds for payment of benefits to retirees under the Nigerian Union of Pensioners Contributory Pension Scheme Sector.

“The OAGF said payments to the Non-Academic Staff of Federal Universities had commenced and many have confirmed receipt.”

The OAGF reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to the welfare of Nigerian workers and retirees.

On Monday, the Joint Action Committee of SSANU and NASU embarked on an indefinite strike over its four months of withheld salary.

Since then, activities have been grounded in universities across the country.

In an earlier interview with The PUNCH on Wednesday, the National President of SSANU, Mr Mohammed Ibrahim, stated that university executives, including vice-chancellors, bursars, and registrars, did not receive salaries for four months.

He said as a result, the universities would remain completely shut down until the payments were made.

By Kayode Sanni-Arewa

Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun has alleged that six suspects who fainted in court before their arraignment on Friday, November 1, did so deliberately to draw negative media attention.

However, he said that medical help was given right away, highlighting the police’s dedication to the welfare of those in custody.

In a statement on Friday, he said: “Today, an unexpected incident in court saw six of the suspects suddenly rush out and faint, drawing media attention in a deliberate and scripted manner to attract negative attention.

Medical aid was promptly provided to these individuals, demonstrating the Police Force’s commitment to the welfare of those in its custody, irrespective of the allegations they face

While committed to upholding justice, the Nigeria Police Force remains sensitive to the rights of all individuals, including young persons. Under Nigerian law, individuals who have reached the age of criminal responsibility are answerable for their actions, regardless of their age.

This principle aligns with global practices, where accountability is upheld for young individuals who commit serious offences. As seen in other jurisdictions, including the United Kingdom, age does not exempt individuals from facing legal consequences. However, each case is approached with empathy and in accordance with human rights standards.”