author

Rhapsody of Realities, November 11th 2024,THE LEGALITIES OF INTERCESSION

Pastor Chris Oyakhilome DSc DSc DD Put me in remembrance: let us plead together: declare thou, that thou mayest be justified (Isaiah 43:26). When we pray, especially in intercession, it’s crucial to understand the legalities involved. Intercession requires a deep comprehension of these legalities because it’s an argumentative prayer, where you present your case, make your claims, and provide the legal reasons for your requests. Intercession is different from the prayer of faith, although it still requires faith. The prayer of faith is often a single declaration, a one-time statement where you believe and receive, trusting that it is done. However, intercession frequently requires importunity, earnestness, and fervency in prayer because it involves standing in the gap for others. Without such intensity and persistence in intercession, things could go awry for those you’re praying for. In intercession, you’re taking a stand between God and the person or people you’re praying for. You step in on their behalf, presenting your case before God and explaining why what you’re asking for should be done for them. This is why it’s important to be clear about your legal position and claims when interceding. This is much more than just asking God for something, it’s about understanding the authority you’ve been given and using it effectively to argue your case. So learn to stand in the gap and bring the needs of others before God in prayer. Study God’s Word intensely to know it intimately so you can use the Word to plead your case effectively. Remember what He said in Isaiah 41:21, “Produce your cause, saith the LORD; bring forth your strong reasons, saith the King of Jacob.” Then in Chapter 43 verse 26, He said, “Put me in remembrance: let us plead together: declare thou, that thou mayest be justified.” Our confidence that He hears and grants our intercessions is on the basis of His Word. Blessed be God! PRAYERRighteous Father, I thank you for the privilege of intercession, where I can stand in the gap for others to fervently plead their case in accordance to your Word. Thank you for the authority you’ve given to me in Christ to establish your will on earth and in the lives of people everywhere, in Jesus’ Name. Amen. FURTHER STUDY:James 5:16-18 AMPCConfess to one another therefore your faults (your slips, your false steps, your offenses, your sins) and pray [also] for one another, that you may be healed and restored [to a spiritual tone of mind and heart]. The earnest (heartfelt, continued) prayer of a righteous man makes tremendous power available [dynamic in its working]. 17 Elijah was a human being with a nature such as we have [with feelings, affections, and a constitution like ours]; and he prayed earnestly for it not to rain, and no rain fell on the earth for three years and six months. 18 And [then] he prayed again and the heavens supplied rain and the land produced its crops [as usual]. 1 Timothy 2:1-6I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, [and] giving of thanks, be made for all men; 2 For kings, and [for] all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. 3 For this [is] good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; 4 Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth. 5 For [there is] one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; 6 Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time. Hosea 14:2Take with you words, and turn to the LORD: say unto him, Take away all iniquity, and receive [us] graciously: so will we render the calves of our lips. READ ALSO: daily Affirmation. There’s no death in my life, family, finances, business, or job because the One in me is greater. I am a life-giving spirit and everything I touch or connect to receives life. Christ’s glory is manifested in my body as I flourish in divine health every day of my life. I live above sickness and disease. My life is excellent and full of glory. I walk in, and manifest, the dominion of Christ today. My life is the revelation of the graces and realities of God’s Word! I live triumphantly over sickness, disease, Satan, and the systems of this world. I live the supernatural life; a life of victory, glory, peace, and dominion. I’ve passed from death to life, from sin to righteousness, and from sickness to health. I am of God. I live in the ageless and deathless zone. I have eternal life; therefore, no disease or infection can fasten itself to my body. I do not suffer from diseases of old age, for I am renewed daily by the Word. I am bursting forth in divine health always. I have the eternal life of God; therefore, I am not affected by anything that hurts. My life is a life of ever-increasing glory and peace. There is no turmoil here because I flourish in God’s rest. I am not a victim of circumstance but an absolute victor in Christ Jesus. God’s Word is producing what it talks about in my life. God’s Word is alive in me; therefore, I cannot die. Every time I receive the Word of God, it goes into my spirit and permeates my body. Christ is made unto me wisdom. In him, I have access to all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. Therefore, I have limitless wisdom. I am prudent. I have knowledge of witty inventions. I am skillful, proficient and knowledgeable. I devise the best solutions in every circumstance. I have discretion. Counsel is mine. I am full of sound wisdom. I have sound knowledge and understanding. I have strength, might, and power. I speak excellent and princely things. I have an understanding heart. The opening of my lips is for the right things. My words are

[ICYMI] 400 sex tapes: Equatorial Guinea’s Baltasar remanded in prison

Baltasar Engonga, the former director-general of Equatorial Guinea’s National Financial Investigation Agency, has been placed under remand at Black Beach Prison in Malabo. Days ago, the troubled former anti-graft chief was taken into custody on suspicion of recording more than 400 sex videos featuring the wives of well-known national politicians. When ANIF investigators conducted an unexpected search of the 54-year-old economist’s home and office as part of a fraud probe, they allegedly found multiple CDs that documented his sex with various married women. Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, the president of Equatorial Guinea, fired Engonga after the video went viral online and caused a stir in the media. Decree No. 118/2024, issued November 4th, states that the reason for the removal was “irregularities committed in the execution of his powers, as well as considered improper social and familial behavior for carrying out official responsibilities. The story was confirmed by the French online blog Afrikmatin, which stated that Engonga was chained and sent to Malabo Central Prison after being formally removed from his position on November 6, 2024. He is accused of embezzlement and corruption. READ ALSO: Scandal Rocks Equatorial Guinea: Financial Crime Chief Allegedly Linked to Leaked Intimate Tapes Additionally, according to state television, TVGE, Engonga was already detained in Malabo’s infamous Black Beach Prison on suspicion of embezzling public monies when the sex films started making the rounds on social media, according to online daily UGStandard. Dubawa confirmed that Engonga had been arrested on corruption allegations and was being imprisoned at Black Beach Prison in a fact-checking report released on Wednesday.

Can Nigeria’s economy absorb another shock?: Band A tariff

Nigeria’s challenge lies in failing to harness the successes of past reforms. One prime example is the transformation of the telecommunications sector through privatisation, marked by the denationalisation efforts that reshaped the industry. Prior to these changes, Nigerian Telecommunications Limited (NITEL), a state-run entity founded in 1985, struggled with inefficiencies, obsolete infrastructure, and limited service. By the late 1990s, it was clear that state control hindered growth and couldn’t keep up with rising demand. The pivotal National Telecommunication Policy of 2000 paved the way for the privatisation of NITEL and the sector’s deregulation. The auction of GSM licenses by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) in 2001 revolutionised the industry, leading to unprecedented expansion. By 2020, mobile phone usage had surged from a mere 0.4% in 2000 to over 80%. However, when Nigeria attempted a similar approach with the power sector in 2013, the outcome was vastly different. Rather than attracting competent investors, the process drew speculators lacking technical skills and financial strength. Despite inheriting significant assets from the Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN) and receiving trillions in government support, the Distribution Companies (DISCOs) have been unable to ensure reliable power. Financial troubles plague all 12 DISCOs, with five taken over by banks or the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria. The Central Bank of Nigeria has injected over N2 trillion to enhance power generation and distribution, yet the capacity remains below 5,000 megawatts for a population exceeding 200 million. A telling sign of DISCOs’ shortcomings is their failure to meter 8 million of their 13.2 million customers over a decade, contributing to their financial difficulties. In 2020, the Nigeria Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) launched the Service-Based Tariff (SBT) system, segmenting customers into bands (A to E) based on their electricity supply hours and usage, with higher tariffs for higher consumption. For instance, Band A users, receiving a minimum of 20 hours of power daily, pay the most. While this system aimed to reflect cost and ensure payment proportionality, it defies typical economic principles. Unlike volume discounts, SBT penalises higher usage with higher costs, pressuring manufacturers who already struggle under a 30% borrowing interest rate. The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has highlighted that over 500 companies have shut down due to these burdens. The liquidity crisis in the power sector, estimated at N3.7 trillion, threatens electricity generation. Although the rationale behind tariff hikes was to infuse liquidity and improve services, DISCOs’ collection efficiency remains poor. Between 2020 and 2024, they billed N3.96 trillion but collected only N2.86 trillion, losing 30% of potential revenue. Unpaid bills in July 2024 alone amounted to N28.97 billion, representing nearly 18% of their revenue. Additionally, neighboring countries made no remittances on $14.39 million in invoices, highlighting inefficiencies passed onto consumers as high tariffs. Initially targeting affluent estates and commercial areas, SBT’s high tariffs have spread to diverse socioeconomic communities. While elites offset costs through alternative energy sources, lower-income groups face hardships. Companies with the means, like Just Rite Superstores, have opted for off-grid solutions—spending $6.5 million due to high tariffs and poor service. However, not many businesses can afford such measures, limiting growth and job creation. READ ALSO: Nasarawa to track killers of military officer, others With energy expenses comprising 35-40% of production costs, and bank interest rates at about 30%, the industrial sector continues to suffer. Lessons could be taken from countries like Kenya, where reduced energy tariffs stimulate industrial growth. While telecom firms in Nigeria attract customers with incentives, pseudo-privatised DISCOs push for continuous tariff hikes, harming the economy. Experts argue that revamping the flawed power sector privatisation by involving more competent, technically adept, and financially solid investors is essential to revitalise the sector.

Nasarawa to track killers of military officer, others

The leadership of Obi Local Government Area has committed to holding accountable those involved in the recent outbreak of violence in Agyaragu, the main town of Jenkwe Development Area. Isa Sani, Chairman of Obi Local Government Council, made this declaration during a visit to assess the damage at the two police stations that were set ablaze in the town. Reports from November 3, 2024, indicate that a dispute between a military officer and police personnel in Agyaragu, triggered by a motorcycle accident, escalated, resulting in the death of the soldier and several civilians. In the ensuing chaos, the police divisional headquarters in Jenkwe, other police facilities, and vehicles were vandalized. During his visit, accompanied by his deputy and members of the legislative council, Sani condemned the violence and emphasized that such acts undermine Governor Abdullahi Sule’s peace initiatives. He assured that those responsible would face arrest and prosecution under the law. He urged residents, especially the youth, to avoid vigilantism and to report disputes to authorities to maintain peace. At the palace of Dr. Ayuba Agwadu-Audu, the Zhe Migili, Sani expressed solidarity with the traditional rulers of Jenkwe. He also announced financial assistance for the medical treatment and burial expenses of those injured and deceased. Additionally, he pledged to provide temporary facilities for police operations to help sustain law and order in the area. Traditional leaders, including Dr. Agwadu-Audu and Zhe Musha, Joshua Kyari, expressed their appreciation for the council’s actions and committed to supporting efforts to identify the culprits behind the incident. Sani, along with his deputy, also visited the residence of the District Head of Duglu, which had been damaged by youth following a chieftaincy disagreement. He called for restraint and assured that measures would be put in place to prevent future occurrences. In related efforts, the Security Council of Obi LGA met at Sani’s office to strategize on recovering and securing the damaged properties. After the meeting, Sani stated that security heads briefed the council on the root causes of the violence, emphasizing the need for thorough investigations to bring those responsible to justice. Sani voiced his concern over the significant setback the incident posed to Obi LGA and Nasarawa State as a whole. He outlined plans to work with local leaders and vigilante groups to protect the affected police stations. Speaking on behalf of Obi’s traditional leaders, the Osuko of Obi, Alhaji Aliyu Dangiwa Ogiri Orume, praised the meeting’s timeliness and called for patience and respect for authority among the community to sustain peace and harmony.

NLC Directs Members To Proceed On Strike Over Non-Implementation Of Minimum Wage

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has instructed its members in states that have yet to implement the 2024 National Minimum Wage Act to initiate an indefinite strike from December 1, 2024. This directive was part of the resolutions from the NLC’s National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held over the weekend. The NLC expressed frustration over the delays and outright refusals by certain state governments to enact the new minimum wage. The NEC described this as a betrayal by state leaders, which violates both legal and moral obligations. It pointed out that many workers are denied fair compensation amidst worsening economic conditions, deeming it a severe disregard for both the law and the livelihood of millions of Nigerian workers. As a response, the NLC has decided to establish a National Minimum Wage Implementation Committee tasked with conducting assessments, mobilizing workers, and raising awareness nationwide. The committee will lead a campaign to inform workers and the public on the necessity of opposing this violation of workers’ rights. The NLC emphasized that strikes and other industrial actions would persist in states that do not comply with the minimum wage law by November 30, 2024. In another development, the NLC has accused petroleum marketers of inflating petrol prices, asserting that these prices are much higher than the market value. According to the NLC, these marketers are taking advantage of Nigerians and worsening the economic burden already imposed by stringent government policies. The NEC expressed concern over the manipulation of petrol pricing, indicating that there seems to be an exploitative collaboration among influential industry figures. It pointed to the conflict between marketers and the Dangote Group as evidence of price padding and excessive profit margins. This, the NLC believes, contributes to the delay in fully operationalizing local public refineries, such as those in Port Harcourt, Warri, and Kaduna, which could disrupt the dominance of powerful players in the industry. The NLC urged for fair pricing and called for domestic refineries to resume operations swiftly to weaken the monopolistic control in the sector. READ ALSO: Fani-Kayode Slams Kemi Badenoch as Tool of Colonialist Regarding Nigeria’s worsening economic climate, the NLC highlighted deep concerns over the escalating financial strain on citizens, driven by unchecked inflation and soaring costs of essential goods and services. The NLC called on the Federal Government to introduce comprehensive, tangible measures to alleviate citizens’ suffering. It demanded robust social protection programs that would combat poverty, ensure affordable healthcare, and implement a wage that aligns with the true cost of living. The NLC also pushed for a general wage review and the revision of policies that have hindered the well-being of the Nigerian people.

Top Freelance Writing Jobs That Pay Up to $1,000 and How to Secure Them

Envision yourself working from home, effortlessly earning thousands of dollars through writing projects on your laptop. For many, this might seem like a distant dream, but it’s attainable with the right skills, strategy, and dedication. Certain platforms offer competitive compensation for freelance writers, often exceeding typical rates seen in general freelance job listings. However, the key to securing these well-paying gigs lies in the quality of your work—it must be engaging, thoroughly researched, up-to-date, and SEO-optimized. Here’s a detailed look at three top-paying freelance writing jobs and what you need to excel in them: 1. Freelance Contributor for Copyhackers Copyhackers is a well-known training platform aimed at copywriters. It not only provides educational content but also invites freelance writers to contribute guest posts. The catch? Copyhackers is highly selective about the submissions they accept. According to their “Pitch Your Guest Post” page, only one in 30 pitches is approved, and only a third of those get published. To succeed in pitching to Copyhackers, writers need to meet specific requirements: If your article is accepted, you can expect to be paid between $300 and $1,000 per article. This makes Copyhackers an excellent option for skilled writers who can craft high-quality content that resonates with readers. 2. Freelance Writer for GB Digital (Specializing in Marketing/Martech) GB Digital, a marketing agency, posts freelance writing opportunities on platforms like ProBloggers. They are looking for writers with a strong background in SaaS (software as a service), marketing, or martech (marketing technology). If you have experience in these areas and can provide three relevant writing samples, you could be considered for their projects. Why a Portfolio Matters A strong portfolio showcasing your writing skills is essential when applying for these roles. It demonstrates your ability to produce high-quality, engaging content, which can help secure better-paying assignments. Clients often require writing samples to assess your expertise and writing style. Location Flexibility and Pay Range One of the most appealing aspects of this freelance writing gig is that location is not a limitation. Writers can work remotely from anywhere, provided they can meet deadlines and deliver polished drafts. The pay per article ranges from $90 to $225. With steady work, this rate can allow writers to earn around $1,000 per month by consistently submitting quality content. 3. B2B Content Writer for On The Map Marketing B2B writing focuses on content directed at a business audience, often with the aim of driving leads and converting them into sales. On The Map Marketing is a digital marketing agency searching for writers experienced in B2B writing and skilled in SEO. Key Requirements: Core Areas to Focus On for Success: To land high-paying freelance writing jobs, it’s vital to focus on three key areas: Final Thoughts: By mastering these areas, freelance writers can elevate their careers, secure high-paying clients, and see their earnings grow significantly. These top-tier freelance writing roles are ideal for writers ready to invest in improving their skills and providing exceptional content.

Fani-Kayode Slams Kemi Badenoch as Tool of Colonialist

Former Aviation Minister, Femi Fani-Kayode, has called Kemi Badenoch, the newly-elected leader of the British Conservative Party, a “dangerous and willing tool of colonialists.”In a post on his X account on Sunday, Fani-Kayode expressed outrage over Badenoch’s comments, which included describing Nigeria, her country of origin, as a “living hell.” He argued that her remarks suggested she might be afflicted by “Stockholm syndrome.”Fani-Kayode criticized Nigerians who support figures that disparage their homeland for political gains. According to him, while Nigeria faces challenges, it is unacceptable to align with those who undermine the country for personal or political advancement. He accused Badenoch of aligning with the far-right faction of the British Conservative Party and disparaging Nigeria, her ancestral homeland, to secure a leadership position, which he described as disgraceful.“I have seen many justifications for her statements, but none hold water,” Fani-Kayode stated. He argued that embracing those who regard one as inferior is not commendable but problematic.He further emphasized that running down Nigeria should not be a strategy for winning political contests abroad, and no patriotic Nigerian should support such behavior.Fani-Kayode concluded: “Kemi is a deceitful, dangerous, and willing pawn of colonial and imperial powers, representing everything a patriotic Nigerian and Pan-Africanist should oppose. Unless she renounces her contempt, I will continue to view her like Brutus from Shakespeare’s play, whose betrayal was most painful and whose stab was ‘the deepest of all. READ ALSO: Checkpoint Tragedy: Officers Leave Duty, Now Face Murder Charges

Checkpoint Tragedy: Officers Leave Duty, Now Face Murder Charges

In an unexpected twist where law enforcers become lawbreakers, three police officers face the consequences of their actions, accused of criminal profiling gone wrong and resulting in tragedy. These officers are now set to answer to charges of murder involving a young student, as reported by Nicholas Uwerunonye.On October 16, at a magistrate court in Ilorin, Kwara State, Abiodun Kayode, James Emmanuel, and Oni Philip appeared without their police uniforms, a far cry from their former authoritative presence. Once responsible for bringing others to justice, they now found themselves seeking mercy. This reversal followed their dismissal from the police force, stemming from accusations of involvement in the killing of Qoyum Abdulyekeen Ishola, a student of Kwara State Polytechnic. The incident underscores longstanding grievances held by students and the public regarding police conduct and profiling.According to the charges, the officers will face trial for criminal conspiracy and culpable homicide linked to Ishola’s death on September 4. On that day, Ishola was discovered in critical condition by his grandfather, Abdulrahman Ero-Alujana, following a call from a relative. Ishola reportedly identified a police officer as his attacker before being taken to the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The case incited outrage at Ishola’s school, with the Students’ Union Government issuing an ultimatum to the police for immediate action, warning of continuous protests if justice was not served. The students criticized the police for their alleged continued harassment and extortion of young people, even after the tragedy.Following an internal inquiry, facts emerged: Kayode and Emmanuel were inspectors, while Philip held the rank of sergeant. READ ALSO: New terror group, Lakurawa, Kills 15, rustles 100 cows in Kebbi All three were found guilty of abandoning their duty post, engaging in corruption, and unnecessary use of authority, which led to their dismissal on October 4, 2024. DSP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, the Police Public Relations Officer, stated that the dismissals aligned with Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun’s commitment to justice and accountability. The case was then assigned to the Kwara State Criminal Investigation Department. Their findings implicated Kayode, Emmanuel, and Philip in a coordinated attack on Ishola. Philip admitted to chasing Ishola on Kayode’s orders and later informing his colleagues, confirming their collective involvement in Ishola’s death.The three former officers now face charges of criminal conspiracy and homicide as the investigation concluded they pursued, assaulted, and left the student fatally injured.

Rhapsody of Realities, November 10th 2024, MIND YOUR LANGUAGE

Pastor Chris Oyakhilome DSc DSc DD For verily I say unto you, That whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass; he shall have whatsoever he saith (Mark 11:23). You must learn to speak in alignment with God’s Word, not with the language of fear or negativity that the world teaches. For example, instead of saying, “l’m afraid it’s going to rain; simply say, “It’s going to rain!” Don’t talk fear!If you’re searching for something and can’t seem to find it, or you’re trying to move something heavy, what should your response be? Never say, “I can’t?” You see, that’s what the world has dropped into the hearts of many that’s so difficult to eradicate. But you’re different. You’re a child of God, and in our Kingdom, we talk differently. We speak faith, not fear, doubt, or unbelief.Using the expression, “I can’t” reinforces a mindset of limitation. One might think it’s just about a specific situation, like not being able to move something, but it’s more than that. It’s incongruous with your divine nature. Recall what Paul said: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13 NKJV). In Christianity, we have the “I-can-do” mentality. It forms the basis for our communication. 2 Corinthians 4:13 says, “We having the same spirit of faith, according as it is written, I believed, and therefore have I spoken; we also believe, and therefore speak.” We speak the Word. We speak in alignment with the divine realities of our heavenly Kingdom. Life is about what you say. Proverbs 18:21 says, Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof. So, mind your language; speak right. Speak truth; God’s Word is truth (John 17:17). CONFESSION I take my place of dominion and reign through words. I walk in divine health, victory, peace and prosperity. I live above the elements and debilitating forces of this world because I live in Christ, I’m seated with Him, far above Satan and the wicked forces of darkness. The world is subject to me. Blessed be God! FURTHER STUDY Romans 12:2 AMPC*Do not be conformed to this world (this age), [fashioned after and adapted to its external, superficial customs], but be transformed (changed) by the [entire] renewal of your mind [by its new ideals and its new attitude], so that you may prove [for yourselves] what is the good and acceptable and perfect will of God, even the thing which is good and acceptable and perfect [in His sight for you]. 1 Peter 3:10*For he that will love life, and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile: Mark 11:23 NKJV*For assuredly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, ‘Be removed and be cast into the sea,’ and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that those things he says will be done, he will have whatever he says. READ ALSO: Rhapsody of Realities, November 9th 2024, ALWAYS A GLORIOUS DAY Daily Affirmation. The God-kind of life in me is all I require to live above sickness and infirmity of the body or mind. I dwell in health all the days of my life. The Lord has given His angels charge over me to keep me. Nothing can hurt me by any means. I am surrounded by the goodness of God on every side. I am protected from every form of evil and I am impervious to anything that binds, hurts, or kills. I have God’s genetic material, His “DNA” resident in me. I have an excellent life that is sickness-free. I enjoy everything that the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ made available to me. I am indestructible and no sickness can thrive in my body. I walk in victory and dominion over diseases and the forces of this world every day.There’s no death in my life, family, finances, business, or job because the One in me is greater. I am a life-giving spirit and everything I touch or connect to receives life. Christ’s glory is manifested in my body as I flourish in divine health every day of my life. I live above sickness and disease. My life is excellent and full of glory. The Lord has magnified me and increased my greatness. I have divine access to wealth untold. The Holy Spirit shows me the secrets of life. He shows me how to produce wealth, to make profit and how to stay in wealth and health. I am the excellent, the glorious, the Lord delights in me. I am making continuous and consistent progress. I have received an overflowing of God’s grace, and this grace is working in me mightily. I have received great grace! It comes with the power of promotion, unending success, and an extraordinary life of excellence, victory, and dominion. I am loaded with good things, and my life is like a city set on a hill that can not be hidden. I declare that there is money everywhere, especially around me. I do not need to look for money. Money is coming to me from everywhere. I don’t go after money, money comes to me by free course unhindered. Money comes to me continuously, never stopping, and never-ending. Resources are locating me right now in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. God is supplying me with continuous streams of finances in Jesus’ mighty name. Amen. Speak in tongues.

New terror group, Lakurawa, Kills 15, rustles 100 cows in Kebbi

A new armed group known as Lakurawa has reportedly killed 15 people and stolen over 100 cattle in Mera, located in Augie Local Government Area of Kebbi State. Alhaji Bashir Isah Mera (Yariman Mera), a notable figure in the area, confirmed to Daily Trust that the attack occurred as residents were preparing for Jumat prayers. The armed group took away more than 100 cattle during the raid. In response, hundreds of townspeople mobilized and chased the attackers into the bush, attempting to reclaim the stolen livestock. This led to a gunfight in which 15 people from the town were killed, while two of the attackers were also reportedly killed. Mera noted that the Lakurawa group operates from their hideouts in the forests of Sokoto, coordinating such attacks from there. Initially, their activities involved seizing cattle and demanding ‘Zakat’ payments from the owners without causing fatalities. However, this attack marked the first time they had taken lives in the town. Governor Nasir Idris contacted Mera twice, expressing deep concern over the violence and ordering the deployment of military forces to help stabilize the community. Additionally, the commander of Dukku barracks, along with the heads of DSS and the police, have mobilized joint security forces to restore peace in Mera and surrounding areas. The Deputy Governor, Senator Abubakar Umar Tafida, and the Emir of Argungu, Alhaji Samaila Mera, visited the town to offer condolences to the families of the victims. They assured residents that the governor is committed to protecting the community from future assaults by the group. Efforts to reach SP Nafiu Abubakar, the Public Relations Officer of the Kebbi State Police Command, for comments were unsuccessful at the time of reporting. READ ALSO:

Edo Governor Obaseki Accuses APC of Misusing State Funds and Borrowing Billions for Inauguration

Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, has accused the All Progressives Congress (APC) of borrowing between N2 billion and N5 billion to fund the inauguration of the incoming administration. Speaking at the inauguration of a 10-member caretaker committee of the State’s PDP in Benin City, Governor Obaseki stated that nearly N27 billion, reserved for ongoing projects and obligations by his government, had already been accessed by the new administration. He criticized this expenditure, expressing concern that these funds were being used during a holiday period to create confusion and shift public perception. Obaseki further lamented that his administration was excluded from the inauguration ceremony, indicating that the incoming government was treating the event as the start of a completely new regime. Senator Monday Okpebholo of the APC, who defeated the PDP’s candidate, Asue Ighodalo, in the September 2024 gubernatorial election, is set to be sworn in on November 12, 2024. Governor Obaseki reassured the PDP that he would remain committed to the party and provide guidance, emphasizing that they would reclaim what he called a stolen mandate for the sake of democracy in Nigeria. He stressed that if the APC retained the governorship, it could signal the erosion of democratic values in the country. PDP’s candidate, Asue Ighodalo, urged party members to prepare for a challenging legal battle to reclaim the mandate. He outlined that responses to petitions were expected in the coming days, with the pre-hearing phase anticipated to begin by late November. Meanwhile, the APC in Edo State has accused Obaseki’s administration of misappropriating N14 billion out of N24.6 billion recently deposited in the state’s account. The party also claimed that Obaseki had sought and secured approval for three supplementary budgets since January 2024, including a N450 billion budget passed just before the September election. READ ALSO:

BON Donates N5.5 Million to Support Borno State’s Flood Recovery Efforts for BRTV

The Broadcasting Organisation of Nigeria (BON) has contributed N5.5 million to support Borno State’s recovery efforts for Borno Radio and Television (BRTV) following the devastating flood in Maiduguri, which resulted in loss of life and property. BON Chairman and Director General of NTA, Abdulhamid Salisu, along with other BON officials, presented the donation to Governor Babagana Umara Zulum in Abuja on Friday. Salisu expressed that the visit was to extend sympathy to the governor and the people of Borno State and to support the rehabilitation of the state’s broadcasting services. “We are here with a cheque of N5.5 million on behalf of BON to sympathize with the government and the people of Borno State for the flood that occurred in October,” Salisu said. “The amount is intended to aid the restoration of the broadcast organization in Borno. I am pleased to present this cheque, and a list of the contributors is attached.” Among the BON representatives present were Executive Secretary Dr. Yemisi Bamgbose, Director Usman Umar Bello, and Alh. Isma’il Sani. Governor Zulum expressed gratitude for the gesture, emphasizing that the donation would significantly assist in rebuilding the state’s media institution. “On behalf of the government and people of Borno State, I want to sincerely thank the DG NTA and BON Chairman for this act of solidarity after the flood disaster that has affected our people,” Zulum stated. He assured that the funds would be used efficiently by BRTV for recovery efforts and added, “I also assure you that we will complement your support with rapid development of the BRTV.” The governor also extended special thanks to NTA Maiduguri for their ongoing dedication and service. READ ALSO:

New Terror Group ‘Lukarawas’ Emerges in Northwestern Nigeria – Defence HQ

The Defence Headquarters has confirmed the emergence of a new terrorist group known as ‘Lukarawas’ in the Northwestern part of Nigeria. The Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Edward Buba, disclosed this to newsmen in Abuja on Thursday, November 7, while speaking on the operations of the military. Buba said that the new terror group emerged from the Republic of Niger after the coup that led to the breakdown of military cooperation between Nigeria and Niger.He said that the terrorists began incursion into northern parts of Sokoto and Kebbi States from the Niger Republic and Mali axis, particularly after the coup in Niger Republic.According to him, before the coup, there were joint border operations with Nigerien security forces, which kept the terrorists at bay. The terrorists took advantage of the gaps in cooperation between both countries and exploited difficult terrains to make incursions in remote areas in some North Western states to spread their ideology,” he said. Buba said that the group was accommodated by the locals, who initially thought that the group meant well for them, adding that they failed to report the movement to the military and security agencies. He assuranced Nigerians that the Nigerian troops have sustained intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) to degrade the terrorists. He added that the terror group had continued to take advantage of the vast under-governed areas to hide and evade troops as well as harass the locals.According to him, troops are locating them and eliminating the threat. READ ALSO: NLC Vows to Oppose Any Efforts to Halt Payment of Workers’ Salaries in Rivers State