News
Oyo: Court nullifies appointment of park managers by Makinde
An Oyo State High Court presided over by presided over by Hon. Justice M. A. Adegbola has nullified the appointment of Park managers by Governor Seyi Makinde in the state.
The Park Management System, PMS, was introduced by the Seyi Makinde -led Oyo state government following the proscription of the National Union of Road Transport Workers, NURTW, in the state.
It will be recalled that the park managers were appointed by state government on the 17th of February, 2020.
Delivering judgement in the case filed by the former chairman of the National Union of Road Transport Workers in Oyo State, Alhaji Abideen Olajide (a.k.a Ejiogbe), Justice Adegbola described as illegal the collection of rates by the park managers appointed by the state government.
The judgement reads:
A DECLARATION that management and control of motor parks is a Local Government function as provided for under Section 7 (5) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as amended and that such duty and function can only be performed exclusively by the Local Governments as listed in the 1999 constitution.
A DECLARATION that parks and management fall exclusively under the powers and confines of Local Government administration and that the appointment of park managers by the Respondents is unconstitutional, illegal, null and void as it contravenes the provisions of Section 7 (5), paragraph 1 (e) of the 4th Schedule to the 1999 Constitution as amended.
A DECLARATION that the appointment of park managers and collection of rates by the park managers on behalf of the Respondents from the applicants and its members is illegal, unconstitutional and contrary to the spirit and letter of the 1999 constitution as amended.
A DECLARATION that the Respondents cannot take over the primary duty of the local government to wit: Park Management and appointments of motor park managers which is exclusively provided for in Section 7 (5) of the 1999 Constitution to be the duty of the local government.
A DECLARATION that any order and/or pronouncement made by the 1st, 2nd and 3rd respondents on the 17th February, 2020 with respect to motor park management and appointment of park managers in Oyo State is unconstitutional, illegal, null and void as same violates the provisions of section 7 (5) of the 1999 constitution and paragraph 1 (e) of the 4th schedule to the 1999 constitution.
AN ORDER setting aside the selection and appointment of park managers in all motor parks in Oyo State by the 1st, 2nd and 3rd respondents on the 17th February, 2020 as same is ultra vires the powers of the Respondents.
PERPETUAL INJUNCTION restraining the Respondents, their agents, privies or whosoever from interfering with the management and affairs of motor parks in Oyo State and from collecting any rates and dues from any of the parks or commercial drivers in Oyo State.
News
FG Declares Festive Public Holidays
The Federal Government has declared Wednesday, December 25, and Thursday, December 26, 2024, as public holidays to mark Christmas and Boxing Day, respectively. Additionally, Wednesday, January 1, 2025, has been declared a public holiday to celebrate the New Year.
This announcement was made by the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, in a statement signed by the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Magdalene Ajani. The minister extended warm greetings to all Nigerians, urging them to embrace the festive period as an opportunity to reflect on the values of love, peace, and unity that the season represents.
Tunji-Ojo emphasized the significance of the season in fostering harmony and strengthening family and community bonds.
“The Christmas season is a good moment for both spiritual reflection and national renewal. As we celebrate the birth of Jesus, the Prince of Peace, let us demonstrate kindness and extend goodwill to one another, irrespective of our differences,” he stated.
He further encouraged citizens to remain committed to peace, unity, and progress for the development of the nation, stressing the Federal Government’s dedication to ensuring security and prosperity across the country.
While wishing Nigerians a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year, the minister expressed confidence in the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
He assured citizens that the coming year would usher in a stronger and more prosperous economy that would set Nigeria on a global pedestal.
The minister concluded by calling on Nigerians to celebrate responsibly, maintaining peace and unity throughout the festive season.
News
IGP Steps In: FCID to Investigate Death of Man Detained Over N220,000 Debt
The Kwara State Police Command has confirmed the death of a 35-year-old man, Jimoh Abdulquadri, who passed away in police custody in the early hours of Friday.
Abdulquadri, who was arrested on December 19, 2024, reportedly died under controversial circumstances, with his family accusing police operatives of subjecting him to brutal treatment during his detention. Reports indicate that the deceased had been detained over an alleged debt of N220,000 owed to an individual identified as Peter.
In response to the incident, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has directed the Force Criminal Investigations Department (FCID) to immediately take over the case. A statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, revealed that the IGP also visited Kwara State to meet with the bereaved family.
During the visit, the IGP was received by the Balogun Fulani of Ilorin, Alhaji Sadiq Atiku Fulani, who represented the family. The IGP expressed his condolences and assured them of a thorough investigation.
“The IGP expressed his profound condolences and assured the family that no stone would be left unturned in uncovering the circumstances that led to the tragic incident. He has ordered the FCID to handle the case with utmost diligence and ensure a conclusive and impartial investigation,” the statement read.
The IGP reiterated the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to upholding accountability, professionalism, and respect for human rights. He further called on all stakeholders to remain calm and allow the due process of law to take its course.
News
FG Lifts Five-Year Ban on Mining in Zamfara, Eyes Economic Boost
The Federal Government has officially lifted the five-year ban on mining activities in Zamfara State, citing improved security and the potential for economic growth in the mineral-rich region.
The announcement was made on Sunday by the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, through his representative, Segun Tomori, during a press briefing in Abuja.
“The Federal Government has lifted the ban on mining exploration activities in Zamfara State, citing significant improvements in the security situation across the state,” the minister said in a statement.
Security Gains and Economic Promise
The ban, imposed in 2019 due to escalating insecurity and illegal mining, was described by Alake as a necessary but temporary measure to protect lives and resources. However, he noted that the ban inadvertently created a vacuum exploited by illegal miners, leading to resource plundering.
Alake praised recent security advancements under the Tinubu administration, highlighting the neutralization of notorious bandit commanders and other strategic wins, including the capture of Halilu Sububu, one of the state’s most wanted criminals.
“The existential threat to lives and properties that led to the 2019 ban has abated. The security operatives’ giant strides have led to a notable reduction in the level of insecurity,” Alake said.
He added that with the restoration of mining activities, Zamfara’s mineral wealth—ranging from gold and lithium to copper—could now be harnessed under strict regulation to contribute significantly to national revenue.
Boosting Regulation and Combating Illegal Mining
The minister emphasized that lifting the ban would pave the way for better regulation and monitoring of mining activities. This, he said, would enable authorities to tackle illegal mining more effectively and ensure Nigeria benefits fully from Zamfara’s mineral resources.
“By reopening this sector, we are prioritizing not only revenue generation but also intelligence gathering to curb illegal mining,” he said.
Addressing Controversies
Alake also addressed concerns surrounding Nigeria’s recent Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with France, which had sparked controversy. He clarified that the agreement focused solely on capacity building and technical support for the mining sector.
“The high point of the MOU is on training and capacity building for our mining professionals. Similar agreements have been signed with Germany and Australia. Misinformation about ceding control over our mineral resources is uncalled for,” Alake said.
Press as Partners in Progress
Commending the media for their role in promoting reforms in the mining sector, Alake urged continued collaboration to drive transparency and attract foreign investments.
-
Metro2 days ago
Grim Friday: Man, Wife, Grandson Perish in Ibadan Fire
-
News3 days ago
Bank Robberies Now History in Lagos Since 2014 – IGP
-
Crime & Court3 days ago
Human Rights Lawyer, Dele Farotimi, Granted ₦30m Bail
-
News2 days ago
NNPCL Refutes Shutdown Claims: Port Harcourt Refinery Fully Operational