PINK REPUBLIC/ MY BLOG IS A STORY MARATHON.

 PRESS RELEASE IGP ORDERS POSTING OF CP IBRAHIM ADAMU BAKORI TO KANO STATE COMMAND The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, has approved the posting of CP Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, fipma, mnim, as the new Commissioner of Police for Kano State Command. This deployment aligns with the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to enhancing security and ensuring effective policing in the state. CP Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, a highly experienced and dedicated officer, has served in various operational, investigative, and administrative capacities, including as a Principal Staff Officer to the Inspector-General of Police, and Commissioner of Police in the Homicide Section of the Force Criminal Investigation Department. His extensive experience in operations, intelligence, and security management makes him well-suited to lead the Kano State Command. The IGP has charged CP Bakori to bring his vast knowledge and expertise to bear in ensuring the safety and security of residents of ...

 Rema Becomes First African Artist on Rolling Stone Cover Nigerian music star Divine Ikubor, popularly known as Rema, has made history as the first African artist to be featured on the cover of Rolling Stone magazine. The American publication, renowned for its coverage of music, politics, and pop culture, announced Rema as the cover star for its April 2025 edition. Mavin Records celebrated the achievement on Instagram, calling him the “Afrobeats Visionary.” Following the announcement, Rema delivered an electrifying performance at the Rolling Stone concert, thrilling audiences with hits like Dumebi, Woman, and Calm Down. This milestone further solidifies Rema’s influence in global music, coming shortly after his feature on Dazed magazine. Since rising to fame in 2019 under Mavin Records, Rema has continued to push Afrobeats to new heights. His hit song Calm Down, featuring Selena Gomez, became the most streamed Afrobeats track in history, surpassing a billion streams on Spotify and ...

 NSCDC, Tantita Thwart Pipeline Attacks, Arrest 17 Suspected Pirates and Vandals …Suspects Allegedly Targeted Petroleum Minister, Attempted to Infiltrate Tantita The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has arrested 17 suspects linked to recent attacks on oil and gas facilities in the Niger Delta. In a statement on Monday, NSCDC spokesperson Afolabi Babawale disclosed that the Commandant General’s Special Intelligence Squad (CG’s SIS) apprehended the suspects following an assault on NSCDC operatives and personnel of Tantita Security Services, a private firm contracted by the Federal Government for pipeline surveillance. During the attack, Assistant Superintendent Umar Aliyu (Service No. 6363) was killed, and a speedboat belonging to Tantita Security Services was stolen. According to Commandant A.S. Dandaura, who led the operation, the suspects—a notorious syndicate of sea pirates—were captured on March 6, 2025, during a coordinated intelligence-led raid at Tonogbene, Ek...

 Court Hears Case of NYSC Member Allegedly Killed by Gospel Singer A High Court in Lafia, presided over by Justice Simon Aboki, has begun hearing the murder trial of 32-year-old gospel singer, Oluwatimilehin Daniel Ajayi, who is accused of killing and dismembering National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, Salome Adaidu. Ajayi, who was brought to court under tight security from the Nigerian Correctional Service, pleaded not guilty to the charges. The Nasarawa State Government, represented by Attorney General Hauwa Samuel Jugbo, has officially taken over the prosecution from the police. During the proceedings, prosecution counsel Raymond Umar requested an amendment to the defendant’s name, changing it from Timilehin Ajayi to his full legal name. Justice Aboki granted the request after verification. Three witnesses, including the Divisional Police Officer of Karshi Police Station and the deceased’s uncle, Mr. Adaidu Samson, testified before the court. During cross-examination, defen...

 Nigeria Wheelchair Basketball Federation applauds BetKing’s Sponsorship boost The Nigeria Wheelchair Basketball Federation (NWBF) has commended sports betting company BetKing for its unwavering support in fostering the growth of wheelchair basketball in the country. NWBF President, Seyi Johnson, lauded BetKing’s corporate social responsibility efforts, emphasizing the company’s commitment to Nigerian sports, particularly para-sports. “BetKing has proven to be a true supporter of Nigerian sports,” Johnson said. “On behalf of the Nigeria Wheelchair Basketball Federation, its board, and all stakeholders, I want to personally appreciate their contributions. Words cannot fully express our gratitude for the kind of support they have shown.” He highlighted that when the federation initially approached BetKing, the company was highly receptive, demonstrating a deep understanding of Nigeria’s sporting history and the significant role of special sports in the country’s international success...

 APC Reinstates Maryam Suleiman As Kaduna State Women Leader The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kaduna State has officially reinstated Hajia Maryam Suleiman as the State Women Leader.  This decision follows the lifting of her suspension by the Badarawa Ward and Kaduna North Local Government chapters of the party. In a letter signed by the APC State Secretary, Yahaya Baba Pate, the party confirmed her reinstatement, effective Monday, March 17, 2025.  The decision was affirmed by the State Working Committee after a no-objection plea was considered. Suleiman had been suspended from office last year due to certain behavioral concerns. However, after showing remorse and apologizing for her actions, the party decided to restore her rights and privileges as a State Executive Committee (SEC) member. The APC leadership expressed hope that such issues would not arise again in the future and assured Suleiman of their full support in her continued role.

  PRESS RELEASE  OSGF DISTANCES SELF FROM ALLEGATIONS OF CORRUPTION ....REITERATES COMMITMENT TO TRANSPARENCY ACCOUNTABILITY AND INTEGRITY The attention of the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF) has been drawn to the ongoing investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) involving Hon. Andrew Torhile Uchi, Personal Assistant to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation bothering on allegations of corruption, bribery, and money laundering.   It is imperative to  state categorically that the Office leadership is not in any way involved in the alleged misconduct as it has always maintained a strong commitment to transparency , accountability, and integrity  We recognize the efforts of the EFCC on this matter to ensure that those found culpable are held accountable.  However, we urge the public not to speculate or draw conclusions as investigations are still ongoing. The OSGF appreciates the understa...

 Fire Ravages Benue Rice Mill Market, Destroys Property Worth Millions A devastating fire has destroyed properties worth millions of naira at the popular rice mill market in Wurukum, near the River Benue bridge in Makurdi. The blaze erupted in the early hours of Monday, but swift intervention by firefighters prevented it from spreading further. However, several shops were severely affected, with processed and unprocessed rice, milling machines, and other goods completely destroyed. One of the victims, Mercy Hanmaikyur, lamented losing about N10 million in the fire. “I opened this shop in December, investing N10 million. I had three machines—a de-stoning machine, a rice polishing machine—and many bags of rice. Everything was lost,” she said. Another trader, Iorwa Jeremiah, said the fire broke out at a time when no one could salvage anything. “By the time I got there, firefighters and shop owners were battling the flames, but the damage had already been done,” he recounted. Market Ch...

 Anambra Govt Offers Free Ambulance Services, Responds Quickly to Accident Emergency Calls, Says Health Commissioner  By Ifeyinwa Ogwo The Anambra State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike, announced that the state government provides free ambulance services to accident victims and responds promptly to emergency calls using the designated numbers: 5111 and 112. He highlighted the launch of a program called the Anambra State Emergency Medical Services and Ambulance System (ASEMSAS), which operates 24 hours a day to address all emergencies. Dr. Obidike said this during a courtesy visit from the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Anambra State Sector Commander, Corps Commander Joyce N. Alexander, and her team at his office in the Jerome Udoji Secretariat in Awka. The Commissioner emphasized the importance of safety and expressed his desire to collaborate with the FRSC on emergency medical services and ambulance systems to provide immediate medical attention for accident vict...

  EPE LG CHAIRMAN DEBUNKS ALLEGATION OF FINANCIAL MISCONDUCT … Restates Commitment To Developmental Projects The Executive Chairman of Epe Local Government, Princess Surah Olayemi Animashaun, has reaffirmed her unwavering commitment to delivering impactful developmental projects and improving the community welfare of residents of the council.  Reacting to unfounded claims of financial misconduct being circulated about her recently, Princess Animashaun dismissed the allegations as baseless, emphasising that her administration upholds the highest standards of transparency, accountability, and responsible financial management. She challenged those behind the accusations to present verifiable evidence of any wrongdoing, stating that the allegations were nothing more than a deliberate attempt to distract her from completing the legacy projects that directly benefit the people of Epe. "I urge the public to disregard these unsubstantiated claims, which are aimed at misleading residen...

 ANAMBRA POLICE TO PARTNER WITH SPORTS WRITERS ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA (SWAN) TO ORGANIZE SPORTS COMPETITIONS WITH MARKET COMMUNITY/RELEVANT STAKEHOLDERS TO ENHANCE RELATIONSHIP WITH MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC The Commissioner of Police Anambra State, CP Ikioye Orutugu fwc MNIPS PhD, while receiving members of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) Anambra State Chapter today 17th March 2025 in his office at Awka, proposes to partner with SWAN to organise sports competitions with the market community and relevant stakeholders to enhance the Police's relationship with the public, thus promoting a sense of community bonding and trust.    The CP noted that this initiative is a great way to promote social cohesion and improve communication between law enforcement and the public.  According to the CP, this will create a positive and engaging environment for the public, and by so doing showcase the importance of sports in building bridges between law enforcement and th...

 EFCC Arrests Kelly Okungbowa (a.k.a Ebo Stone) for Alleged Naira Abuse Operatives of the Benin Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,  EFCC, on Monday March 17, 2025 arrested Kelly Okungbowa (a.k.a Ebo Stone) for alleged naira abuse. Okungbowa,  who until recently was the coordinator of the Edo State Public Safety Response Team , PSRT,  now suspended by the State Government,  was  arrested owing to a viral video where he was seen spraying and mutilating the Naira at a bar on  March 9,  2025.  He will be charged to court as soon as investigations are completed. #ActiveEagle

 STATEHOUSE PRESS RELEASE PRESIDENT TINUBU APPOINTS BISHOP KUKAH AS PRO-CHANCELLOR OF FEDERAL UNIVERSITY OF APPLIED SCIENCES, KACHIA   President Bola Tinubu has appointed Bishop Matthew Kukah, the Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, as the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of the Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia, Kaduna State.   Additionally, the President appointed principal officers for the university, including Prof. Qurix Williams Barnabas as Vice Chancellor, Sanusi Gambo Adamu as Registrar, Ibrahim Dalhat as bursar, and Prof. Daniel Abubakar as university Librarian.   President Tinubu also approved the appointment of Mr Thomas Etuh, representing the North Central, Chief Fabian Nwaora (South East), Prof Femi Taiwo (South West) and Zarah Bukar (North East). as members of the university's Governing Council.   All the appointees were carefully selected based on their distinguished careers, leadership experience, and dedication to...

 She shared some photos on social media today with the caption  "Happy birthday to my amazing son Rob! You are truly one of my life’s most special blessings and joys and I thank God He chose me to be your Mom… you are such an incredible Dad, Son, Brother, Uncle, Grandson and best friend, and I cherish every memory we have made. We celebrate you today and I love you so very much 🥳💫⭐️🌟💚☘️🍀🤩🎂🙏🏼🥰💚 @robkardashianofficial". More photos below. 

 NASU Gives WAEC Seven-Day Strike Ultimatum The Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU) has issued a seven-day ultimatum to the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) management to address a four-point demand related to workers’ welfare and alleged victimization of labor leaders. Speaking at a press conference in Lagos on Monday, NASU General Secretary, Prince Peters Adeyemi, warned that all WAEC offices across the country would be shut down from Monday, March 24, if the demands are not met.

 The Rivers State House of Assembly has initiated impeachment proceedings against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Prof. Ngozi Odu, citing multiple allegations of misconduct. Key accusations against Governor Fubara include: -Budget Violations – Failure to present the 2024 Appropriation Bill and unauthorized withdrawals from the state’s Consolidated Revenue Fund. -Court Order Disobedience – Ignoring judicial rulings regarding budget approvals and government expenditures. -Legislative Interference – Hindering the operations of the House of Assembly and supervising the demolition of the Assembly complex despite court injunctions. -Unlawful Appointments – Appointing government officials without proper screening and confirmation by the Assembly. -Financial Mismanagement – Withholding funds meant for the Assembly and its members, including salaries. The Supreme Court has previously condemned Fubara’s actions, stating that political disagreements do not justify attacks on the ru...

 Sowore Accompanies Lagos Corps Member to NYSC Office Over Viral Video Controversy Human rights activist and 2023 presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, has shown support for National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member Ushie Rita Uguamaye, also known as Raye, following backlash over her viral video criticizing President Bola Tinubu’s administration. In a video shared on X on Monday, Sowore stated that he had met with Uguamaye in Lagos and would accompany her to the NYSC Local Government Inspector’s office along with a team of lawyers. “The journey with Corps member Ushie Rita Uguamaye has begun in Lagos. She is scheduled to appear before the LGI today, and we are accompanying her with attorneys,” Sowore captioned the video. Uguamaye recently went viral after posting a TikTok video lamenting the country’s worsening economic conditions and openly criticizing Tinubu’s leadership. She later alleged receiving threats over her comments, sparking widespread debate on free speech and polit...

 Gene Therapy Offers New Sickle Cell Cure in the US Sebastien Beauzile, a 21-year-old from Laurelton, Long Island, has become the first person in New York State to be cured of sickle cell anemia using the groundbreaking Lyfgenia gene therapy. Administered at Cohen Children’s Medical Center, this innovative treatment provides hope for many suffering from the painful genetic disorder, Forbes reported on Sunday. A Lifelong Battle Sickle cell anemia causes abnormally shaped red blood cells, leading to severe pain and potential organ damage. Beauzile, diagnosed at just four months old, endured frequent hospitalizations due to intense pain crises, which he described as “10 out of 10” in severity. Gene Therapy Breakthrough Developed by Bluebird Bio and approved by the FDA in December 2023, Lyfgenia works by extracting a patient’s blood stem cells, genetically modifying them to include functional hemoglobin genes, and reinfusing them into the bloodstream. This cutting-edge approach marks a...

 Rwanda and Belgium expel each other's diplomats over Congo conflict Belgium and Rwanda announced the expulsion of each other's diplomats, as relations deteriorated over allegations about their respective roles in the conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, Reuters reported. Kigali said it was severing diplomatic relations and giving Belgian diplomats 48 hours to leave the East African country, accusing Brussels of "using lies and manipulation to secure an unjustified hostile opinion of Rwanda." Belgium's foreign affairs minister Maxime Prevot said the move was "disproportionate and shows that when we disagree with Rwanda they prefer not to engage in dialogue." Brussels will reciprocate by declaring Rwandan diplomats persona non grata, he added. African leaders have been trying to establish a lasting ceasefire in Congo, where the Rwandan government is accused of supporting an offensive by M23 rebels in eastern Congo.

  Ogun Headmaster Arrested for Alleged Sexual Assault of Pupil The Ogun State Government has confirmed the arrest of Ashafa Afelaja, a private school headmaster in Eyin Ogbe, Igode, near Ogijo, for allegedly assaulting a female pupil. Afelaja was apprehended following a report from a concerned citizen who alerted the state authorities about the incident. Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Adijat Adeleye, announced the arrest in a statement on Monday, assuring the public that the victim is receiving medical care and psychological support. “Our rescue team intervened in Adamo, Ikorodu, after reports of a school headmaster assaulting a young female pupil. The suspect is currently in police custody, and we are closely monitoring the well-being of the rescued child and her mother,” Adeleye stated. She emphasized the government’s commitment to justice for survivors of abuse, pledging to collaborate with law enforcement agencies to ensure swift legal action against off...

  Jandor Announces Return to APC After Leaving PDP Dr. Abdul-Azeez Olajide Adediran, popularly known as Jandor, has officially announced his return to the All Progressives Congress (APC) after leaving the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). In a statement shared on his official page, Jandor explained that his decision followed extensive consultations with family, political associates, and supporters. He emphasized that a political party's primary goal is to win elections and form a government, which he believes the APC prioritizes more effectively than the PDP. Reflecting on his time in the PDP, Jandor noted that while he was proud of his 2023 gubernatorial campaign and legal battle up to the Supreme Court, the party’s internal leadership worked against its own members. In contrast, he acknowledged the APC’s strong leadership, particularly praising President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s ability to secure victories for the party. Jandor expressed gratitude to key figures who facilitated his ret...

 Protest Erupts in Abuja Over Benue Judiciary Crisis …Coalition Petitions NJC, Seeks Tinubu, CJN’s Intervention A coalition of civil society organizations (CSOs) staged a protest at the Three Arms Zone in Abuja on Monday, calling for urgent intervention from President Bola Tinubu and the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, in the ongoing crisis within the Benue State judiciary. The protesters, holding placards questioning the integrity of some judges, warned that Nigeria’s democracy was at risk and urged the CJN to take action. Speaking to journalists, the coalition’s Chief Convener, Comrade Igwe Ude-Umanta, criticized the increasing politicization of the judiciary. He accused Benue State Chief Judge, Justice Maurice Ikpambese, of violating judicial procedures by waiving the mandatory security deposit for petitioners at the Local Government Election Tribunal and later relocating the tribunal to Abuja—actions seen as breaching Benue State’s electoral laws. D...

 UNITED STATES DEFENSE ATTACHE TO NIGERIA PAYS COURTESY CALL ON FLAG OFFICER COMMANDING NAVAL DOCTRINE COMMAND On Thursday 13 March 2025, the Defence Attaché of the United States Colonel Tom Brooks and his delegation paid a courtesy visit to the Flag Officer Commanding Naval Doctrine Command (FOC NAVDOC), Rear Admiral Shehu Usman Gombe. The visit underscored the strong collaboration between the US Navy and Nigerian Navy, in the area of training and sea exercises.  Further discussions explored collaboration in maritime research, policy development and strategic studies.  In his remarks, the FOC NAVDOC explained the Command’s mission which is to enhance NN operational readiness through doctrinal development, training assessments, and compliance evaluation.  The visit was concluded with gratitude for the engagement and a reaffirmation of commitment to sustained partnership and cooperation. More photos below.