The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has debunked allegations that the construction of houses for judges in Abuja is aimed at influencing them for political purposes.

During a media call on Wednesday, Wike clarified that the housing project is not his personal initiative but part of a welfare package designed by President Bola Tinubu to support judicial independence.

Wike emphasized that he is simply fulfilling his role by implementing an already approved project.

Wike explained, “(Tinubu said) ‘Where do the judges live? They have no home and are therefore open to political manipulation and for me, as president who wants to guarantee the independence of the judiciary, judges must have their home.”

“I am not Mr. President; I am fortunate to have been appointed minister under this government and to be in a position to implement its policies. And Mr. President said, look, this is what he wants; come by and see what we can do.

“It was approved by the President and sent to the National Assembly in the 2024 budget that judges and judges’ quarters should be built. That they should move judges from where they rent houses and live among criminals.

“A policy that everyone should commend, Mr. President, it is in the 2024 budget, appropriated by the National Assembly, approved by Mr. President, which is a law. What’s the problem? I’m just the executor, going to implement this.

“The Federal Executive Council approved the contract and everything. It’s not my policy. How are you going to kill me for implementing what the federal government has approved?”

Wike insisted that there was nothing wrong even though it was his idea to build houses for judges, adding that he had done something similar as Governor of Rivers State.

The former governor of Rivers State lamented the criticism instead of praise for this project, especially from those in the legal profession.

Eniola Shokunbi, a 12 years old Nigerian from Connecticut, USA, has designed an air filter to reduce spread of air borne diseases in US schools.

The design targets creating low-cost air filters for classrooms. The Connecticut State Bond Commission approved $11.5 million in funding for the design.

In her fifth grade at Commodore MacDonough STEM Academy in Middletown, they were tasked with creating a solution to enhance safety in schools during potential future pandemics.

Therefore, to combat airborne viruses like COVID-19, she developed a simple but effective air filter system.

Design
Shokunbi’s air filter design showcases both innovation and cost-effectiveness. The unit is constructed using a simple combination of components: a box fan, four furnace filters, duct tape, and cardboard.

This ingenious assembly results in a remarkably low production cost of approximately $60 per unit. This makes it a highly affordable alternative to commercial air purifiers.

Eniola Shokunbi said: “The air goes through all the sides, and it comes out of the top. So it filters in and out.”

With support from scientists at the University of Connecticut, UConn, Shokunbi’s design underwent rigorous testing.

The Environmental Protection Agency, EPA, confirmed that the device effectively eliminates over 99% of airborne viruses, showcasing its potential to significantly improve classroom safety.

The recent approval by the State Bond Commission allocates $11.5 million for the implementation of these air filters across Connecticut schools.

This funding is part of UConn’s SAFE-CT: Supplemental Air Filtration for Education Program, which aims to ensure that every public school classroom has access to these vital air purification systems.

Shokunbi’s vision extends beyond Connecticut; she aspires to see her air filters implemented in classrooms nationwide.

“A lot of people don’t realize that the only thing standing between them and getting sick is science,” Eniola Shokunbi said.

Also, she emphasized the importance of investing in scientific solutions for children’s health.

Ex- Chelsea midfielder John Mikel Obi believes Arsenal striker Kai Havertz dishonoured Blues fans during last weekend’s north London derby.

During the recent 1-1 Premier League draw at Stamford Bridge, Havertz, a former Chelsea player, thought he had scored for the Gunners.

Despite facing boos from Chelsea fans throughout the match, he responded by signaling for the crowd to be quiet.

Mikel Obi said such gestures, regardless of the circumstances, could be perceived as disrespectful to the fans of a club where a player has previously made significant contributions, including winning major trophies such as the Champions League and the Club World Cup.

In a discussion on the Obi One podcast, Obi-Mikel reflected: “Looking back, it’s understandable that adrenaline and passion can influence actions in the heat of the moment.

However, showing respect for a former club and its fans is crucial.

“While playing for Chelsea, I sometimes faced challenges where the fans appreciated, but my love for the club remained strong and I focused on my responsibilities on the pitch.

“When a player returns to his former club and scores, it is important to celebrate in a way that recognizes the connection with the fans, rather than dismissing them. While I may not know all the reasons behind Havertz’s actions, I believe maintaining respect is essential for both players and supporters.”