The Kogi State Government’s recent directive requiring students to present their parents’ valid tax clearance certificates before being allowed to register for school has triggered widespread public outcry. Parents, human rights activists, and education stakeholders have openly criticized the policy, calling it discriminatory and harmful to the right to education. In November 2024, the Chairman of the Kogi State Board of Internal Revenue Services, Sule Enehe, issued a directive instructing educational institutions to deny registration to students who fail to submit a verifiable parental tax clearance certificate. Legal Challenge and Public Backlash Prominent Kogi-based legal practitioner and human rights advocate, Arome Odoma, has taken a stand against the policy by issuing a pre-action notice against the state government. Addressed to Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo and the Revenue Board Chairman, Odoma described the policy as a violation of natural justice, equity, and good conscience. In the notice, Odoma asserted that education is a fundamental right, not a privilege, emphasizing that all states, including Kogi, are constitutionally obligated to ensure non-discriminatory access to education. He criticized the policy for punishing students for circumstances beyond their control, such as their parents’ tax status. Odoma stated: “Education is not a privilege but a right, and it is legally guaranteed for all citizens without discrimination. This policy undermines the educational rights of students, some of whom self-fund their education through hard labor.” He further stressed that several political leaders in Nigeria, including governors and senators, were able to pursue education without parental financial support, highlighting the policy’s flawed foundation. Appeal for Policy Reversal Odoma urged Governor Ododo to reconsider the directive, arguing that it could: He called for the policy to be rescinded by January 10, 2025, warning that legal action would be pursued if the government failed to reverse the directive. Parents and Human Rights Commission React A concerned parent, Mr. Elesho Emmanuel, described the policy as both “anti-education and anti-human,” questioning why children should be penalized for their parents’ financial non-compliance. Similarly, Sir Agabaidu Jideani, National Commissioner for the Right to Education at the National Human Rights Commission of Nigeria (NHRC), appealed to Governor Ododo to prioritize the educational rights of children while seeking tax compliance solutions. He commended the government’s efforts to ensure tax discipline but cautioned that the current approach could inadvertently deprive children of their right to education. The Kogi State Government is yet to respond to the growing demands for a policy reversal as tension continues to rise among residents and human rights advocates. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
Gov. Ahmed Ododo of Kogi State has officially signed the 2025 budget appropriation bill, valued at N582.4 billion, into law. The signing ceremony took place on Monday at the Glass House in Lokoja’s Government House. According to Kingsley Fanwo, the state’s Commissioner for Information and Communication, this development marks a significant step toward implementing the state’s financial plan for 2025. Key Highlights of the 2025 Budget: Legislative Support During the signing ceremony, Aliyu Umar, Speaker of the Kogi State House of Assembly, presented the appropriation bill to the governor. He urged the governor to ensure equitable distribution of the budget’s implementation across all state constituencies for balanced development. Gov. Ododo’s action reflects his dedication to shaping Kogi’s financial future, with a vision to positively impact the economy and improve residents’ lives. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has announced significant achievements in its efforts to combat drug trafficking and abuse in Kogi State. Between January and December 2024, the agency arrested 284 suspects and seized over 5,232,575 kilograms of illicit drugs. It also confiscated counterfeit currency worth $2 million and ₦20.4 million in various denominations. Speaking at a press briefing in Lokoja, the Kogi State capital, the NDLEA State Commander, Mustapha Yahuza, highlighted the agency’s successes. Among these was the destruction of 10 hectares of marijuana plantations within the state. “These accomplishments are significant milestones in our fight against drug abuse and trafficking in the region,” Yahuza said. He attributed the progress to the commitment and professionalism of the agency’s personnel despite the challenges they face. The NDLEA’s drug seizures included Cannabis Sativa, Tramadol, Methamphetamine, Diazepam, Rohypnol, Exol-5, Cocaine, Codeine, Heroin, Pethidine Injection, Ergometrine Injection, and Nitrous Oxide. So far, 91 individuals have been convicted for drug-related crimes, with several cases still ongoing at the Federal High Court in Lokoja. In addition to enforcement, the NDLEA has actively engaged in drug abuse prevention and advocacy. Yahuza revealed that the agency sensitized 51 schools and organizations on the dangers of drug abuse in 2024. Furthermore, 195 individuals were counseled as part of its drug demand reduction initiatives. The commander issued a stern warning against drug consumption and trafficking, emphasizing the devastating effects these practices have on individuals, families, and society at large. He reiterated that the seized drugs and other exhibits had been handed over to relevant authorities for further investigation and prosecution. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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Former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, has pleaded not guilty to a new 19-count charge filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) at the Federal High Court in Abuja. Bello, currently in custody at Kuje prison, is accused of involvement in an N80.2 billion fraud during his tenure from 2016 to 2024. Key Allegations Against Yahaya Bello The EFCC alleges that Bello utilized five proxies to purchase luxury properties in Abuja and Dubai using funds sourced illegally. The anti-corruption agency further accused him of attempting to conceal over N3 billion through his associates. In addition, Bello is charged with transferring $700,000 to a U.S.-based account, a violation of the Money Laundering Prohibition Act. The EFCC claims that this act constitutes a breach of public trust, punishable under Sections 18(a) and (c), and Section 15 of the Money Laundering Prohibition Act. Other individuals implicated in the case include Ali Bello (the former governor’s nephew), Dauda Suleiman, Shehu Bello, Rabiu Musa, and Abdulsalam Hudu, who is reportedly at large. Bail Plea and Legal Defense Bello’s legal team, led by Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) J.B. Daudu, urged the court to grant him bail, assuring that he would not flee the country. Daudu emphasized Bello’s history as a two-term governor who traveled only twice during his tenure, portraying him as a law-abiding citizen. In his defense, Bello explained his earlier absence from court, stating it was due to legal measures to challenge the court’s jurisdiction over the case. “It was not an act of disrespect but a legal approach to defend myself,” Bello said. EFCC’s Stance on Bail Request The EFCC’s counsel, Kemi Pinheiro, SAN, expressed no objection to the bail request but recommended strict conditions to ensure Bello’s attendance throughout the trial. Previous Charges This latest case follows a separate 16-count charge, for which Justice Maryann Anenih of an Abuja High Court had remanded Bello to Kuje prison. Meta Description Former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello pleads not guilty to EFCC’s 19-count fraud charge, with allegations of N80.2 billion fraud and money laundering. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi State has reiterated his administration’s strong commitment to bolstering the security and safety of residents across the state. Speaking at a high-profile meeting in Lokoja on Tuesday with members of the Vigilante Group and Professional Hunters, Governor Ododo underscored that security remains a top priority on his administration’s agenda. The Governor expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Vigilante Group and Professional Hunters for their tireless efforts in maintaining peace and protecting communities. He commended their dedication and acknowledged the positive impact of the government’s investment in security measures, noting that these collaborative efforts have yielded significant results. Governor Ododo also extended his thanks to National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu and the heads of various security agencies for their unwavering support, which has been instrumental in stabilizing security in Kogi State. He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing capable security leaders, contributing to national and state-level safety. State Security Commitment State Security Adviser Commander Jerry Omodara (Rtd) spoke before the Governor, emphasizing that the administration’s commitment to security has been a deterrent to criminal activity. Omodara praised the courage and effectiveness of the Vigilante Group and highlighted the government’s adoption of a community-based security strategy. Collaboration with Professional Hunters Prof. Abdullahi Yau, representing the Professional Hunters, assured Governor Ododo of their ongoing collaboration with other security forces to combat crime. This assurance reinforces the collective effort to ensure Kogi State remains safe and secure. Commissioner of Police, Mr. Bethrand Onuoha, also lauded the Professional Hunters for their effectiveness and teamwork with traditional security agencies. Strengthened Security Operations Approximately 300 Professional Hunters have been actively working in Kogi State for over two months, complementing existing security frameworks to enhance public safety. Broad Government Support The meeting was attended by key government officials, local government chairmen, and the State Commissioner of Police, showcasing strong support for Governor Ododo’s security initiatives aimed at creating a safer Kogi State. READ ALSO:
