Real Madrid fall to 0-1 defeat

Spanish champions Real Madrid suffered a shock 0-1 loss at home to promoted Cadiz on Saturday, their first La Liga defeat in over seven months.

Honduran forward Anthony Lozano put Cadiz ahead in the 16th minute.

This was after he darted between Madrid defenders Sergio Ramos and Raphael Varane to meet a cushioned header from Alvaro Negredo and lifting the ball over keeper Thibaut Courtois into the net.

Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane made four substitutions at halftime in a bid to turn the game around and brought on Luka Jovic later on.

The Serbian striker soon put the ball in the net but saw his effort ruled out for a clear offside.

Vinicius Jr missed the target with a free header, while Karim Benzema struck the bar from the edge of the area.

Cadiz clung on to claim their first league win over Madrid since 1991 and their first ever away win against them.

The shock victory took Cadiz up to second in the league, level on 10 points with Madrid, who visit Barcelona next week in the Clasico.

If you concede an early goal against a team like this you really struggle, Madrid keeper Courtois said after his team suffered their first league defeat at home in more than a year.

The first half was very bad, we conceded two or three chances, we had a serious discussion at halftime and made a few changes but couldnt find the goal because they were very organised and defended very well.

We werent at our best today and if you arent at your best you cant expect to win games.

Zidane had hinted at rotating his squad for the match but fielded a strong team, not withstanding injuries to defenders Dani Carvajal, Alvaro Odriozola and forward Eden Hazard.

He took off captain Sergio Ramos at halftime and the defender was seen icing his knee as he watched on from the stands.

Madrid wearing an unfamiliar pink jersey in spite playing at home, tried in vain to break down Cadiz, who are back in the top flight for the first time in 14 years.

This is a historic win and we want to celebrate it, said match-winner Lozano. (Reuters/NAN)

Source: NAN News

Attempt on my life during EndSARS protest pre-planned Oyetola

By Victor Adeoti

Gov. Gboyega Oyetola of Osun on Sunday said the attempt on his life by assailants during Saturdays protest against the disbanded Special Anti-Robbery Squard(SARS) in the state was pre-planned.

Oyetola, in a state broadcast on Sunday in Osogbo, said preliminary investigation revealed that the commando style in which the assailants carried out their attack justified his claim that the act was pre-planned

According to him, the attempt on his life could not have been planned by the youths who constitute over 60 per cent of the voters who elected him into office.

Oyetola, who noted that he was properly evacuted to safety during the incident ,said no life was lost at the scene as no live bullet or cannister of teargas was fired at the rampaging political thugs.

Yesterday evening, political thugs and hoodlums made failed attempts on my life and those of my aides while identifying with our beloved youths who were engaging in legitimate protest against the alleged brutality of the now disbanded SARS.

My entourage and I joined protesters from Alekuwodo area to Olaiya Junction chanting solidarity songs with them and encouraging them along the way.

During the course of my address to the protesters to reiterate our cooperation and support, political thugs hijacked the exercise and hurled stones and dangerous weapons at us and vandalised several cars in my convoy, Oyetola said.

The governor also said the two lives reportedly lost was not during the attack on him.

According to him, one of the said deaths caused by a lone motorcycle accident occurred at about 12noon, long before he got to the protest ground.

He added that the second death was said to have occurred around Ayepe, about five kilometers away from Olaiya where the protest was held.

We sympathise with the families of the diseased and pray to God to grant them the fortitude to bear the great losses.

I have directed that the incidents be properly investigated with a view to ascertaining the causes of the deaths, the governor said.

Oyetola also said that government would be setting up a Judicial Panel of Enquiry in line with the directive of the National Economic Council to investigate all related cases of abuse and brutality by the disbanded SARS and the attack on him.

What happened on Saturday is objectionable, unacceptable and a blight to the Omoluabi ethos that the state of Osun stands for.

Osun youths who are the original #EndSARS protesters have travelled the long road of building a better Osun with us and we have been on the lane of delivering a better and prosperous Osun together.

This assassination attempt could not have come from them.

The protesters have engaged in peaceful demonstration for the first two days before it was later hijacked in the last five days.

In fact, we had cause to raise the alarm last Wednesday to the effect that the protest had been hijacked, Oyetola said.

The governor, however, enjoined all citizens to be peaceful and be law abiding, adding that all efforts would be made to protect them and their property.

Oyetola , who noted that government was on top of the situation, said that the perpetrators of the dastardly act would be brought to justice.

We commit to the cause of our youths and the #EndSARS protesters and shall do everything to ensure that their demands are met.

We shall not condone any act that will compromise the lives of our people and the hard-won ranking of our state as the most peaceful state in Nigeria.

As a responsible government, we will do everything in our powers to protect the lives and property of our people, the governor said.

Source: NAN News

Minister of Information and Culture Lai Mohammed,

By Rotimi Ijikanmi

The Federal Government says the #EndSARS protest has been hijacked by hoodlums and people with ulterior motive to destabilise the country and bring down the Muhammadu Buhari administration.

The Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, stated this on Sunday when he featured on a Radio Nigeria programme monitored by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja.

He said the Federal Government had met the demands of the group and implementing them.

Having met the demands, he said it was absurd that protesters were remaining on the streets causing mayhem, obstructing movements and inflicting pains on Nigerians.

When you look at the demands of the #EndSARS and the decisions of the Federal Government, it is clear that there is no single demand of the group that has not been met.

Therefore, one will begin to ask if there is any ulterior motive because what we have witnessed in the last few days is that they have moved their demands from five to seven.

As soon as the government approved one demand another one will follow .

From the five demands which were initially tabled and have been addressed, they are now including petrol price, national assembly salaries and allowances, electricity tariff among others.

Then you begin to ask yourself what exactly is the motive of the protests and who are those behind them, he said.

According to the minister, it is more nauseating that the protest has gone violent, claiming lives and causing injuries as well as destruction to property.

He said Saturdays assassination attempt on Gov. Adegboyega Oyetola of Osun who came out to identify with the protesters and address them was a clear indication that the protest had been hijacked.

Mohammed said the Minister of Federal Capital Territory, Mohammed Bello, was equally turned back on the road by the protesters in Abuja.

Peaceful protest is synonymous with democratic tenets and to that extent we see the EndSARS protest as the manifestation of how far our democracy has developed

Regrettably, the protest has been hijacked by hoodlums and by people with ulterior motives bentat destabilising the country.

As of today, many people in many parts of the country simply cannot go out because people are being intimidated and roads have been blocked.

There was a report of a pregnant woman that died inside the ambulance simply because she could not get to the hospital because of the protesters.

This cannot be allowed to continue because where your right stops another persons rights begin.

While government will continue to engage, no responsible government will fold its arms and allow the state to be thrown into anarchy, he said.

NAN reports that the #EndSARS group has been protesting what it calls police brutality.

The protesters at inception came with five demands including that all arrested protesters be released and justice be given to deceased victims of SARS including compensation to their families.

They equally demanded that there should be an independent committee to oversee the investigations and prosecution of any member of SARS found guilty of extra judicial killings.

They demanded that all personnel of the disbanded SARS undergo psychological and medical evaluation as well as retraining before they should be redeployed to other services of the police.

The protesters also demanded that the salary of the police should be increased in a manner that will be adequately compensate for protecting lives and property of citizens.

In meeting the demands of the protesters, the minister said on Oct. 11, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) dissolved SARS accross the 36 state Police Command and the FCT.

He said the president on Oct. 12 addressed the nation, stating that the disbanding of SARS was a first step in the comprehensive reform of the police.

Mohammed said that On Oct. 13, the IGP ordered all defunct SARS personnel to report at Force Headquarters in Abuja for debriefing as well as psychological and mental examinations.

On the same day, the Presidential Panel on the Reform of SARS accepted the five-point demand of the protesters.

He said the National Economic Council (NEC) presided over by the Vice President with the 36 state governors and FCT Minister as members met on Oct. 15 and directed the immediate establishment of state-based Judicial Panels of Enquiry across the country.

The panels as directed by the Council are to receive and investigate complaints of police brutality and related extra-judicial killings with a view to delivering justice for all victims of the dissolved SARS and other Police units.

The NEC also directed governors to immediately establish state-based special security and human rights committee to be chaired by the governor in each state.

The committee is to ensure protection of human rights while members will include representatives of the youths, civil society groups and the head of the Police Tactical Unit in the state.

The governors are also to supervise the newly formed Police Tactical Unit and other security agencies located in states.

The NEC also mandated every governor to take control and initiate dialogue with the protesters in their states and the FCT.

The Council directed governors to set up a victim support fund so that those who have been victims of SARS brutality will be compensated.

The minister saidstates, including Ogun, had begun to implement the decisions of NEC.

Specifically, he said the Ogun government had setup an investigative panel of inquiry, a special security and human rights committee as well as victims support fund.

Source: NAN News

Gov. Ifeanyi Okowa addressing #EndSARS protesters in Delta State

By Ifeanyi Olannye

The Delta government has constituted an eight-member judicial panel of enquiry to investigate allegations of police brutality and extra-judicial killings in the state.

This was contained in a statement issued by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Mr Chiedu Ebie, and made available to newsmen on Saturday in Asaba.

Ebie said that the panel, as approved by Gov. Ifeanyi Okowa, would receive and investigate complaints of police brutality or related extrajudicial killings in the state.

The SSG said the panel would investigate complaints from victims of the disbanded Special AntiRobbery Squad (SARS) or any other police unit, with a view to ascertaining their validity.

He said that the panel was also expected to recommend compensations and/or other remedies appropriate for each case.

According to him, the panel has Justice Celestina Ogisi (rtd.) as Chairman and Mr Omamuzo Erebe as Secretary.

He listed other members to include AIG David Igbodo (rtd), Mr Harrison Gwamnishu, representing the youths and Mr Godwin Oyovweadjebore, representing students.

The panel also has Mr Freedom Atsepoyi, Mr Eris Jewo-Ibi, representing the civil society groups and Mr Nicholas Osadolor, representing the Human Rights Commission.

Ebie said that the panel would be inaugurated on Oct. 19 at the Government House, Asaba.

Source: NAN News

Minister of Information and Culture Lai Mohammed,

By Rotimi Ijikanmi

The Federal Government has warned that it will not allow the country to be thrown into anarchy following the violence that has trailed the #EndSARS protests.

The Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, stated this on Saturday when he featured on a late night Nigeria Television Authority (NTA) news programme, Weekend File

The programme entitled, EndSARS Protest: The Way Forward, was monitored by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja.

The minister said Saturdays assassination attempt on the Osun Governor, Adegboyega Oyetola, while addressing the protesters was a clear confirmation that the protests had been hijacked by hoodlums and people with ulterior agenda.

He noted that while the original conveners of the protests might have meant well, it was obvious that they were no longer in control of the initiative.

Peaceful protest is an integral part of democracy and that is why the Federal Government in the last 11 days has treated the protesters in a very civilised manner.

But, if you look at what happened to the governor of Osun state,it has gone completely beyond peaceful protest against excesses and abuse of power by the police.

There is no where in the world where a government will folds its arms and allow the country to descend into anarchy.

We are no longer dealing with #EndSARS but a volatile situation that can lead to anarchy if government does not take some very firm steps to protect the lives and livelihood of innocent Nigerians, he said.

The minister added that the protests have gone beyond being peaceful because lives have been lost and innocent Nigerians, including workers and students, are passing through harrowing experiences.

Specifically, he said because the protesters are blocking the roads and highway, workers are finding it difficult to get to their offices and back home while many Nigerians are stranded on the roads.

We have nothing against peaceful protest but there are civilised ways of doing so.

This is by going to a venue where you are not going to disturb other Nigerians because where your own right stops, other persons right begins, he said.

Mohammed said Nigerians should also see the protests as a smokescreen staged to undermine the administration and destabilise the country because all the demands by the protesters had been met by the government.

He reiterated that after the government had responded and met all the demands of the protesters, they ought to have nothing doing on the streets.

He recalled that the protesters on inception came with five demands including, that all arrested protesters should be released immediately and justice must be given to deceased victims of SARS including adequate compensation to be paid to their families.

The minister said the protesters equally demanded that there should be an independent committee to oversee the investigations and prosecution of any members of SARS found guilty of extra judicial killings.

He said they demanded that all personnel of the disbanded SARS must undergop psyhologicl and medical evaluation as well as retraining before they should be redeployed to other services of the Police.

The protesters also demanded that the salary of the police should be increased in a manner that will be adequately compensate for protecting lives and property of citizens.

In meeting the demands of the protesters, the minister said on Oct. 11, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) dissolved SARS accross the 36 states Police Command and the FCT.

He said President Muhammadu Buhari, on Oct. 12 addressed the nation, stating that the disbanding of SARS was a first step in the comprehensive reform of the police.

Mohammed said that On Oct. 13, the IGP ordered all defunct SARS personnel to report at Force Headquarters in Abuja for debriefing as well as psychological and mental examinations.

On the same day, the Presidential Panel on the Reform of SARS accepted the five-point demand of the protesters.

He said the National Economic Council (NEC) presided over by the Vice President with the 36 state governors and FCT Minister as members met on Oct. 15 and directed the immediate establishment of state-based Judicial Panels of Enquiry across the country.

The panels as directed by the Council are to receive and investigate complaints of police brutality and related extra-judicial killings with a view to delivering justice for all victims of the dissolved SARS and other Police units.

The NEC also directed governors to immediately establish state-based special security and human rights committee to be chaired by the governor in each state.

The governors are also to supervise the newly formed Police Tactical Unit and other security agencies located in states.

The committee is to ensure protection of citizens human rights while members will include representatives of the youths, civil society groups and the head of the Police Tactical Unit in the state.

The NEC also mandated every governor to take control and initiate dialogue with the protesters in their states and the FCT.

The Council directed governors to set up a victim support fund so that those who have been victims of SARS brutality will be compensated.

The minister stressed that with all the steps taken, the government has done more in meeting all the demands by the protesters.

He appealed to Nigerians to be objective in assessing the situation and to see that what is going on is beyond peaceful protest but an attempt by some people to destabilise the country.

Source: NAN News

UN-Secretary-General-Antnio-Guterres

By Harrison Arubu

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for peaceful and credible presidential election in Guinea on Sunday.

Guterres message was contained in a statement by his spokesman, Mr Stephane Dujarric, on Saturday amid high political tension in the run up to the polls.

Incumbent President Alpha Cond is seeking a controversial third term that has reportedly triggered deadly clashes between his supporters and those of the opposition.

Reports say the situation has worsened following the killing of a senior army officer, Col. Mamady Cond, by armed men on Friday.

The incident occurred amid reports of an attempted mutiny in which soldiers seized weapons to free some of their colleagues in detention.

On the eve of the presidential elections in Guinea, the Secretary-General calls on all national stakeholders to ensure that the polls are conducted in an inclusive and peaceful manner.

He also calls on all political leaders and their supporters to refrain from acts of incitement, inflammatory language, ethnic profiling and violence.

He urges the defence and security forces to act responsibly and with utmost restraint, the statement said.

It quoted the UN Chief as urging political leaders and their parties to explore legal means of resolving any dispute that may arise from the elections.

Guterres reiterated the commitment of the UN to supporting the countrys efforts at promoting national unity.

The 82-year-old president is running in the election after influencing a constitutional change to extend his stay in office in spite of criticisms.

He is facing his main rival, Cellou Diallo, whom he has defeated twice.

A winner needs not less than 50 per cent of the votes to emerge, failure of which there would be a second round on Nov. 24.

Cond, a former opposition leader, was first elected in 2010, and is seeking a third term of six years.

Source: NAN News

FC Barcelona player in an aerial contest for the ball

FC Barcelona fell to their first defeat in La Liga under new coach Ronald Koeman as they lost 0-1 at Getafe on Saturday.

Getafe forward, Jaime Mata, sent goalkeeper Neto the wrong way from the penalty spot to score the only goal in the 56th minute.

This was after FC Barcelona midfielder, Frenkie de Jong, had been penalised for treading on the foot of Djene Dakonam.

FC Barcelona had played well in the first half and almost took the lead when Lionel Messi thumped a shot against the post.

Antoine Griezmann missed an even clearer chance before halftime, blazing over when through on goal unchallenged.

Their loss followed champions, Real Madrids shock 1-0 defeat at home to Cadiz earlier on Saturday.

lt also left FC Barcelona ninth in the standings with seven points after four games, a week before the Clasico at home to Madrid. (Reuters/NAN)

Source: NAN News

Osun Mall looted by hoodlums

By Olajide Idowu

Suspected hoodlums on Saturday attacked Osogbo City Mall, vandalised shops and stole electronic gadgets, phones and laptops.

Eye witnesses told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the hoodlums stormed the mall on motorcycles at about 7pm, forcing security guards and shop owners to run for safety.

The attack came on the day the state governors convoy was allegedly attacked by #EndSARS protesters, leaving two people reportedly dead.

One of the eye witnesses, who preferred anonymity, told NAN that the fierce approach of the hoodlums sent everyone in the mall running for safety.

He said that the hoodlums came in large numbers and had a free day, as no policeman or any other security personnel intervened to save the situation.

They rode on over 20 motorcycles with about three passengers each on the bikes, and they came with dangerous weapons.

The private security guards at the mall had to run for safety, because they dont carry arms.

The hoodlums destroyed the glass doors of the electronics stores within the mall and carted away phones, laptops and other items, the witness said.

There were also reports of arson at a public facility in Osogbo, allegedly carried out by the hoodlums.

The Police spokesperson in the state, SP Opalola Yemisi, confirmed the incident and said that efforts were onto bring the situation under control and arrest the perpetrators. (NAN)

Source: NAN News

Nigerian traders protesting in Ghana

By Fortune Abang

The Nigeria Union of Traders Association in Ghana (NUTAG), has carried out a peaceful protest over Ghanaian authorities refusal to open shops owned by Nigerians in that country.

The President of NUTAG, Mr Chukwuemeka Nnaji, who led the protest, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in a telephone interview that Ghanaian authorities refused to open their shops since 2019.

He noted that the Ghanaian authorities refusal to open the traders shops was despite several meetings between top officials of both governments of Nigeria and Ghana.

He said that the protest was to press the Ghanaian authorities to open shops owned by Nigerians living in Ghana, to enable them tackle economic challenges amid COVID-19.

According to him, the shops owned by Nigerians under lock and key since the past one year should be opened to enable the traders return to normal businesses, urging the Nigerian central government to evacuate them.

Nnaji said: I am in talks with my leader, Mr Ken Okoha, National President of Nigerian Traders, and he has assured us that he will take our case up to the highest level in Nigeria.

In fact, plans are on for him to move to institutions that are related to trade; I have known him for five years now and I know what he is able to do.

I am rest assured that the leadership of Nigerian traders are working towards achieving this goal; some of you, who still have funds, should also continue to help other traders.

Be law abiding citizens, COVID-19 is still on and lots of businesses are affected; many of us are living from hand to mouth due to the downturn.

If you do not have anything to do, stay at home; rest assured that at the end of October, if we are not evacuated, we will keep ourselves at the border.

Receiving the traders, Mrs Easter Arewa, Charge de Affair of Nigeria High Commission in Ghana, said that the government would remain committed to protecting Nigeria citizens.

According to her, the letter by Nigerian traders has been well received and their message will be conveyed to the highest authority.

Government is not resting on your case; it is because of you Mr Femi Gbajabiamila, Speaker of the House of Representatives, came to Ghana.

Likewise, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo was here. In spite of his busy schedule, he came here and met with the leadership of NUTAG. He promised to continue with the cause on his return to Abuja.

He has not failed; very soon your situation will be addressed because a hungry man is an angry man. It is not nice to hear that in a brotherly country like Ghana, you are being treated like this.

We have Ghanaians in Nigeria too and they are treated as brothers, so do not worry. It is a government-to-government dialogue.

I believe, very soon, we will get to the end of this matter and we will all be at peace, Arewa said. (NAN)

Source: NAN News

By Salisu Sani-Idris

The Nigeria Youth Organisations (NYO) has enjoined Nigerian youth to support government efforts to reform the Nigeria Police to bring about modern policing with human face as promised by President Muhammadu Buhari.

He also urged them to stop the #EndSARS protest since it had been hijacked by some self centred element bent on disturbing the peace in the country.

The National President of the Organisation, Alhaji Abubakar Wali, made the call at a news conference on Friday in Abuja.

Wali said that all well meaning Nigerians must not play into the hands of those bent on creating scenarios like that of Syria or Libya, where lives were jeopardize as a result of unrest that emanated from protests.

The youth leader advised the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) to establish the Police and Youth Relation Committee, where all fundamental demands and solutions to alleged police brutality and corruption shall be address.

We join all well-meaning Nigerians to condemn bad eggs in the police who perpetrate brutality against innocent citizens, and welcome necessary reforms that shall bring about modern policing with human face.

We commend the Nigerian youth and lovers of social justice for coming up with a patriotic stands to right the wrongs in our society.

However, we must as a point of necessity crave towards mutual trust of peace, unity, love, stewardship and accountability to the government and people, Wali said.

He also advised the Federal Government to establish a National Youth Development Commission to address major concerns bedevilling the youth across the three tiers of government in the country.

Wali also stressed the need for the National Assembly to ensure the passage of the Youth Right Bill as a panacea towards ensuring that youth rights and privileges are protected.

This will provide enabling environment for the youth to thrive, progress and contribute immensely to national development, Wali said.

He also appealed to Buhari to improve on critical areas of youth unemployment, women empowerment and social welfare for the citizens.

On his part, the leader of Ohaneaze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide, Mr MaziOkwu Nnabuike, also enjoined youths to support the Federal Government to implement laudable reforms in the police.

Source: NAN News

The Federal Fire Service (FFS) has donated firefighters tunic worth N6.5m to the Bauchi State Government.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that thefirefighters tunicis made fromfireresistant, synthetic fabric which retains its structural strength afterfireexposure, and resists cuts and tears.

It provides a good level ofprotectionwithout exacerbating the metabolic heat stress of thefirefighter.

The Controller General of the FFS, Mr Ibrahim Liman,made the donation when he visited Gov. Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State on Friday.

Limansaid that each of the tunic donated was worth N650, 000.

He urged theBauchi state government to complement firefighters efforts in the state to achieve good response time to fire outbreaks, also fire stations should be established across the state.

We cannot be at the headquarters and spread to every part of the state in good time.

Let us establish more stations in all areas in the state to make fire service response time more effective.

Fire service assets are for the state because they are serving the people. We need your financial support for the maintenance of these trucks, he said.

He noted that training of fire men across the country did not take place in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Plans are ongoing to ensure training begin across the federation in the first quarter of 2021, he said.

Responding, Mohammed restates the commitment of the state government to partner with the FFS to ensure that men of the service put in their best.

We will do good procurement in a manner that you can use your connection with other development partners and governments to help us.

Our fire service is not doing well and we are tackling the issue, he said.

Source: NAN News

Ebonyi govt to create ranches in 13 LGAs

By Christian Ogbonna

The Ebonyi Government says it will establish ranches for local herders in the 13 local government areas of the state.

Mr Cletus Ofoke, State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice disclosed this on Saturday in Abakaliki at a security meeting with some stakeholders in the state.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that some of the stakeholders include state committee on herdsmen/farmers matters, members of Miyetti-Allah Cattle Breeders Association on Nigeria (MACBAN) and Ebonyi Local Government Advisory Committee.

Others are the 13 local government Chairmen and Technical Assistants and Supervisors on herdsmen/farmers matters.

Ofoke said that establishment of the ranches was part of governments efforts to prevent local cows from going into extinction.

Yes, the state governor has mandated the establishment of ranches for our local cows. You know our local breed are already going into extinction.

We want our people to breed our cows the same way the herders are doing it.

When we breed, we sell and make money from there, he said.

The Attorney-General disclosed that the state governor, Chief Dave Umahi had appointed Technical Assistants and Supervisors including herders in all the 13 Local Governments in the state.

He said they would mediate between herdsmen and farmers matters in the state.

The Governor have made appointees, including the herders in all the 13 local government areas of the state.

The meeting is very significant and it was to familiarise with the new appointees and the state committee on herdsmen/farmers matters, Ofoke said.

Alhaji Gidado Sadiq, Chairman of MACBAN in the South East zone, commended Gov Umahi for appointing some of his members as aides.

I urge my people to be law abiding and tolerant and that is the first thing to do. Always be tolerant and always report to us, who are their leaders, on any matter before acting, Sadiq advised. (NAN)

Source: NAN News

NAS advocates free, compulsory prostate cancer test for Men Over 40

By Angela Atabo

Members of the National Association of Seadogs (Pirates Confraternity), Sahara Deck Abuja, on Saturday advocated free and compulsory prostate cancer test for men over 40 years of age in Nigeria.

The members of the association made the call during the associations Prostate Cancer Awareness Walk in Abuja.

Dr Joseph Oteri, a member of the Sahara Deck, said that the prostate gland is a small walnut-sized gland in men located below the bladder, in front of the rectum , produces seminal fluid and transports sperm.

According to him, the prostate gland, if not maintained with a good lifestyle, has a chance of becoming cancerous.

Prostate cancer is one of the killer diseases that affect men above 40 years of age in the past.

But recently, there has been cases of people dying or having prostate cancer even earlier than 40 years, he said.

It is something that people can actually discern; there is something we call Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA), so men who are 40 years and above should do a PSA at least twice in a year.

The PSA is supposed to reveal the levels of protein produced by the prostate that when elevated, can indicate if one is going to have enlargement or cancer.

Most men hardly go for the test, even doctors hardly do.

So, there is a department in charge of cancer research at the Ministry of Health where we can advocate that they find a means to make the PSA test free and compulsory.

If you are going to marry, they will tell you to bring your genotype result to know if you are compatible with your spouse to avoid risk of bearing children with sickle cell.

So, let us also say that as you are recruiting workers, ask them for PSA test, or on a yearly basis ask the workers to do their PSA. In some offices, they do that, of which is good , he said.

Oteri said that the prostate gland if enlarged, would affect urine flow and when it gets cancerous, it would move to the bones, from the bones to the lungs and result to death.

On the risk factors , he said: The incidence of prostate cancer is not very high but once men get to 40 years and above, the risk would start multiplying.

The risk is even more if ones father had history of prostate cancer or enlargement.

Oteri advised wives to encourage their husbands to go for PSA test, eat good diet and also maintain a good lifestyle.

He advised that eating of fruits especially tomato could regulate the prostate glands.

Also, taking of vitamins, exercising and reduction in the intake of alcohol and cigarette would help in fighting prostate cancer, he said.

Also, Mr Victor Ofili, Capoon, Sahara Deck, said that the primary goal of prostate cancer screenings was to reduce deaths rate through early detection and prompt management .

Ofili said that the purpose of the awareness walk was to sensitise adult males about prostate cancer and the available screening tests.

He called on governments at all levels to make provisions for affordable routine checks for prostate cancer and improve the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) for accessible and affordable healthcare.

The associations medical team have highlighted some predisposing factors to prostate cancer to include ones family history of cancer ,high-fat diet and obesity ,smoking living a sedentary lifestyle.

Ofili advised men above the age of 40 to go for regular medical screening consisting of digital rectal examination, PSA, urinary and blood tests, biomarkers screening andalso to be conscious of their diet.

According to him, if tested positive, early treatment should commence.

Mr John Oke, Executive Director, Spiritual and Welfare, NAS, said that the organisation was at a point where the average age of its member was around 35 and 40, thus the need to create awareness on prostate cancer.

Oke said that beyond the confraternity, the association was also looking at how to raise awareness about prostate cancer among Nigerians to know the available treatment options as prevention is cheaper and better than cure.

He said that the association recently visited the Karu General Hospital made donations of test kits and held health talks to sensitise people on the scourge and prevention of prostate cancer. (NAN)

Source: NAN News

By Victor Adeoti

Gov. Gboyega Oyetola of Osun, on Saturday, joined the protest against the activities of the disbanded Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) in the state.

The otherwise peaceful protest, held from Oke-Fia to the popular Olaiya junction in Osogbo, however, turned violent when some hoodlums attacked the convoy of the convoy.

While the governor, who had joined the protesters, was rounding off his speech, some hoodlums, welding dangerous weapons, attacked his convoy and damaged several government vehicles.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the hoodlums also injured many of the protesters.

The governor was, however, immediately ferried away from the scene, while those who sustained injuries were taken to a nearby hospital for medical attention.

The governor, while addressing the protesters before the attack, said that the youth had spoken loud and clear, adding that government would continue to protect their interest.

Oyetola, who apologised to the protesters for coming late to address them, said he had been away from the state and only came back shortly.

He said: I want to tender my unreserved apology to the youths for my inability to address you before now. This is simply because I was out of the state, he said.

The governor, who commended the protesting youths for displaying the Omoluabi ethos for which the state was known by comporting themselves in a peaceful manner, said he was in support of the protest against police brutality and human rights abuse.

The excesses of the SARS personnel are too much and they have to be checkmated. So I agree with you and we understand your plights, Oyetola said.

He, however, dismissed the rumours making the rounds that he was the one who sent the hoodlums to attack the protesters, saying there was no way he could have done such. (NAN)

Source: NAN News

Gov. Kayode Fayemi, Ekiti State

By Ariwodola Idowu

Ekiti State Governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi, has commiserated with the family of the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, over the death of his first daughter, Rev. Omotola Oyediran.

The late Oyediran, 79, was until her death the Chairman of the African Newspapers of Nigeria (ANN), Plc; Publishers of the Tribune Newspapers.

The Governor comiserated with the family In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Yinka Oyebode,in Ekiti, on Saturday.

He described Oyedirans death as a huge loss not only to the Awolowo and Oyediran families but also to the entire progressives family.

It is a personal loss to me in particular, he said.

The late Oyediran, according to the Governor, was an embodiment of love, integrity, courage, compassion and piety, virtues that defined her inter-personal relationships in her lifetime.

Mrs Oyediran radiated love, warmth and was a mother figure not only to members of the Awolowo dynasty, but also to everyone that came her way.

She was a loving mother and dutiful wife of our respected Prof A.B. Oyediran, former Vice Chancellor of the University of Ibadan.

She was a virtuous woman and distinguished leader whose life was an inspiration to many.

My Condolences also go to the management and staff of the Tribune Newspapers for the loss of their indefatigable Chairman, whose management skills had helped to reposition the newspaper.

On behalf of myself, my wife and the good people of Ekiti State, I commiserate with the Awolowo and Oyediran families, the government and good people of Ogun State on the passing of Mrs Oyediran, one of their illustrious daughters.

Her death was a huge loss, no doubt, but we are consoled by the fact she lived an impactful life and left behind a legacy of honour. Our prayer is that God grants her eternal rest and grant the children and the entire family the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss, Fayemi said. (NAN)

Source: NAN News

By Ariwodola Idowu

The Governor of Ekiti State, Dr Kayode Fayemi, has signed into law, a bill backing the upgrading of the State College of Education Ikere-Ekiti to the University of Education, Science and Technology, Ikere-Ekiti.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) quoted the Governors Chief Press Secretary, Olayinka Oyebode, as saying on Saturday that the signing of the bill is part of activities marking the second anniversary of the administration.

He said the Governor signed the bill into law in Ado-Ekiti, in the presence of the Deputy Governor, Chief Bisi Egbeyemi, Wife of Governor, Mrs Bisi Fayemi, Speaker of the House of Assembly, Funminiyi Afuye, Deputy Speaker, Hakeem Jamiu, members of the State House of Assembly, members of the executive councils and representatives of Ikere-Ekiti community.

Others present are the Chairman, Governing Council of the College, Chief Afolabi Ojuawo, and the provost, Prof Olufemi Adeoluwa.

According to him, the College of Education Ikere-Ekiti (formerly Ondo State College of Education) was established by an Edict on December 5, 1977.

He explained that the development is in realization of the administrations commitment to promoting knowledge economy in the State.

He said that Fayemi assured that the state government will continue to demonstrate commitment to the promotion of knowledge in the State.

The governor commended the Speaker and members of the State House of Assembly for passing the bill which will enhance the fulfilment of his administrations drive to improve the lives of the people, noting that the stress of passing a bill to law could be tedious and demanding, he said.

According to the Governor, the bill, which was passed independently by Members of the House of Assembly as part of their constitutional responsibilities was done in the best interest of the people of the State.

Fayemi who noted that the three arms of Government are designed to complement one another for peace and good governance, promised that his administration will continue to promote harmonious working relationship with the legislators towards maintaining their institutional autonomy.

He said; Mr speaker has already enumerated several bills that have been passed into law by the State Assembly but the one that assent is being given to today is the one that underscores the importance we attach to knowledge economy.

I have no doubt that the new legislation I am about to sign will enhance our restoration agenda and make favourable impact in the lives of our people. The three arms of government are to complement one another for good governance, peace and harmony.

I am glad that our lawmakers are living up to their constitutional responsibilities of legislation, representation, appropriation and oversight functions which they must continue to carry out with the larger interest of the people of Ekiti in mind.

Earlier, the Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly,, disclosed that the bill is one of the 32 bills passed by the sixth Assembly and signed into law by the Governor.

The Speaker explained that the passage of the bill is in response to the agitation of the people of Ikere-Ekiti to promote and sustain the legacy of knowledge economy which is one of the cardinal programmes of the Fayemi-led administration.

The provost, Prof Olufemi Adeoluwa, and the Chairman, Governing Council of the College, Chief Afolabi Ojuawo, said the event marked the realization of the expectation of the college.

They expressed readiness of the college to start on fresh note, assuring that both human and infrastructural resources needed for the smooth running of the institution are on ground.

Source: NAN News

NGO unfolds N80m humanity development projects for host community

Deborah Coker

A Non Governmental Organisation, the Rotary Club of Ekpan, says it plans to spend about N80 million on its humanity development projects in its host community.

Mr Akpodiogaga Emeyese disclosed this on Saturday in Ekpan, near Warri, shortly after his installation as the 22 President of the club for the 2020/2021 rotary year.

Emeyese explained that about N56 million would be used by the club for the purchase of land for the Ekpan rotary centre as well as the building of the infrastructure.

He said that N5 million would be expended on the clubs back-to-school project for 1,000 students, while a further N5 million would be expended to enhance the existing micro credit scheme of the club.

He also said that N10 million had been budgeted for the construction of an Ante-Natal building for the Ekpan General hospital, while N4 million would be spent on youth and women empowerment.

The president said that rotary focused on anything that could improve the overall well-being of humanity and increase or make positive impact in the society.

He said that it also welcomed support and donations from fellow rotarians, friends and well wishers toward achieving the listed projects.

He added that the projects would open opportunities to all in the society.

He noted that the club began its 2020/2021 rotary year with a tree planting project in July, in line with its seventh area of focus of rotary, which is supporting the environment.

He added that the years activities incorporated skills acquisition in line with rotarys sixth area of focus, which is economic and community development.

He also said that in August, the club organised free health services in line with rotarys second area of focus, which is disease prevention and treatment.

He further said that the club in the fight against COVID-19 in September donated customised face masks, sanitisers, and drugs in line with rotary focus on disease control, water and sanitation and promotion of rotarys public image.

Emeyese said that the club had since 1999 made several positive impacts in the host community through its service to humanity.

Earlier the immediate past president of the club, Mr Stephen Olubo, said that the club achieved a lot in the 2019/2020 rotary year, adding that among the achievements was the purchase and installation of a mamogramy machine at the Ekpan General Hospital.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), reports that a 14-man board of the club for the rotary year was also inaugurated. (NAN)

Source: NAN News

Vice President Yemi Osinbajo

By Chijioke Okoronkwo

Vice President Yemi Osinbajo says the Federal Government is concerned about the feelings of Nigerians as the #ENDSARS protests continues.

The #ENDSARS protests, which started on Oct. 8, have continued even after the Inspector-General of Police (I-G) announced the dissolution of SARS on Oct. 11.

Osinbajo, in a series on tweets, said that the government must take full responsibility of protecting the people.

Dear Nigerians, I know that many of you are angry, and understandably so; we could have moved faster and for this we are sorry.

I fully understand how many young people feel. Many feel that we have been too silent and have simply not done enough; these feelings of frustration are justified.

There are far too many people who have been brutalised at the hands of the police and this is unacceptable; we must take responsibility for protecting young people, even sometimes from those who are paid to protect them.

Over the past week, we have been following the protests, and I have had a number of discussions with key people in the administration that you deserve to be informed about; transparency, after all, is a key tenet of government.

The Vice President said that several meetings had been held with the Senate President, Ahmed Lawan, Speaker of the House Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila, the Chief of Staff to President Muhammadu Buhari, Chairman of the Police Service Commission.

More so, he said the I-G, the Executive Secretary of National Human Rights Commission Nigeria, and governors were part of the meetings.

We understand that you want to see action from us and I am here to tell you that work is ongoing; I chaired a meeting of 36 state governors and the FCT Minister, National Economic Council(NEC), where we resolved to set up judicial panels of inquiry so we can see justice served, and fast.

The reason being that only state governors, by law, can set up judicial inquiries in their states. The hearings will be public.

With the Presidents approval, SARS has been completely disestablished, and none of its former members will feature in any police tactical units.

I am sending my deepest condolences to the families of Jimoh Isiaq, and all those who have lost their lives at the hands of wayward police officers; to those injured, I wish a full and speedy recovery.

We have proposed that each state government sets up a Victims Support Fund, which the Nigerian Government will support. This is the least that we can do to compensate for the injustice suffered at the hands of errant officers.

According to him, the government understands that the issues that being raised are bigger than just SARS.

They are deep and systemic and we are undertaking comprehensive measures that will revamp the police by addressing issues of welfare, service conditions and training.

He said that the President had reiterated his commitment to these extensive police reforms.

We will continue to update and engage with you all on these action steps and the ones to come, in the spirit of transparency, so that you can hold us accountable.

We are, after all, here to serve you and we owe you a duty to win back your trust.

Keep safe. God bless you, he said.(NAN)

Source: NAN News

COVID-19

By Oluwafunke Ishola

Lagos State Government says that 181 students and staff of a private boarding school in Lekki area of the state have tested positive to COVID-19 infection.

Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, disclosed this in a statement on Friday in Lagos.

Abayomi said that the cases were detected during COVID-19 surveillance and case investigation in the school, adding that there were 441 students and staff in the school.

I am pleased to announce that all the infected students are predominantly asymptomatic, while some have very mild symptoms, no student has required hospitalisation, he said.

The commissioner explained that a 14-year-old SS1 female student fell ill on Oct. 3 and was sent home after receiving first aid at the school.

He added that the student subsequently tested positive for COVID-19 on Oct. 6 in one of the accredited private labs in Lagos.

The commissioner assured residents that the state government, through the incident command system, has the situation under control.

He added that appropriate steps had been taken to contain the spread and manage the positive cases.

According to him, all parents have been contacted and counselled through a zoom call on Oct. 13 to further allay their fears, adding that communication between the school authority and parents continues.

He disclosed that the zoom meeting was attended by the commissioners for Health and Education, all relevant responders and stakeholders.

There is a total lockdown and movement restriction in the school with the Epidemiology and Surveillance Pillar of the EOC and Ibeju-Lekki LGA State Disease Surveillance and Notification Officer (DSNO) reporting at the school daily to conduct further investigation.

Positive students and staff have been isolated on the premises and given the COVID-19 home-care treatment packs and are being monitored in isolation within the school premises, Abayomi said.

The commissioner said that the school authorities supported by the state Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Education are following the COVID-19 guidelines as set out by the government.

Students are to be isolated in the School premises and if unwell will be admitted in one of the accredited isolation centres in Lagos.

Students are discouraged from going home to avoid infecting members of their families, he said.

Abayomi noted that members of the Emergency Operation Centre and counterparts in the Ministry of Education have been deployed to the school to provide strategic interventions and support to the school.

He added that the support include psychosocial support, infection prevention control, medical monitoring and risk communication experts to further enlighten and educate the affected people.

The commissioner advised residents to maintain personal and environmental hygiene, stressing that use of face mask, proper hand washing and maintaining physical distance would help prevent the spread of the infection.

COVID-19 is still very much with us and we must strive to prioritise the safety of all, including students and teachers, by adhering strictly to prevention protocols and guidelines issued by the government to prevent its spread, Abayomi said.

He urged residents to call the 08000EKOMED or 08000356633 toll-free line if they notice any sign or symptoms of COVID-19, which include fever, cough, sore throat, fatigue or loss of taste or smell. (NAN)

Source: NAN News

By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Air Task Force of Operation Lafiya Dole has neutralised several Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) elements and destroyed their hideouts at Tudun Wulgo and Tumbun Gini in Borno.

The Coordinator, Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. John Enenche, disclosed this in a statement on Friday in Abuja.

Enenche said that the destroyed terrorists hideouts were located on the fringes of Lake Chad.

He said that the air attacks were executed on Thursday as part of a new subsidiary Operation, tagged Wutar Tabki, after series of aerial surveillance missions had indicated their locations.

According to him, the locations were being used as staging areas where some ISWAP leaders and their fighters meet to plan and launch attacks.

Accordingly, the Air Task Force dispatched a force package of Nigerian Air Force (NAF) fighter jets and helicopter gunships to engage the two locations.

The attack aircraft scored devastating hits in the target areas, destroying some structures and neutralizing several of the terrorists, he said.

Source: NAN News