Good Evening. Here is today’s News Brief from The Matrix:
1. FRSC Vows to Prosecute Drunk Drivers in Ogun
Abeokuta – The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in Ogun State has vowed to bring to book any driver caught driving under the influence of alcohol and causing harm to pedestrians.
Sector Commander Akinwumi Fasakin made this declaration on Sunday in Ota while reacting to a recent accident in Epe, Lagos State, where two pedestrians were knocked down by a drunk driver.
Fasakin expressed zero tolerance for drunk driving, emphasizing that such reckless behavior would not be condoned in the state.
He also revealed that the FRSC is currently on the trail of a hit-and-run driver who killed pedestrians along the Sagamu axis. The suspect’s vehicle, with registration number KJA635HY, has been identified, and the Nigerian Police Force has issued a warrant for the driver’s arrest.
2. Benue Governor Condemns Killing of Humanitarian Worker
Markurdi – Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has strongly condemned the gruesome murder of prominent humanitarian worker, Mr. Chris Terfa, who was shot dead at his office in Makurdi on Friday.
In a statement issued on Sunday by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Tersoo Kula, Governor Alia described the killing as a tragic loss to the state and the nation. Terfa was a renowned health rights advocate and leader in Nigeria’s development sector, serving as the National Chairperson of the National Key Population Health and Rights Network (NKPHRN) and Executive Director of Concerned Youth for Development Initiative (CYDI).
Expressing deep sorrow, the governor visited the bereaved family on Sunday to offer condolences. He lauded the deceased’s immense contributions to the health and human rights sectors, particularly his advocacy for vulnerable populations in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
Governor Alia commended the swift response of the Divisional Police Officer of E Division, Mr. Daniel Ezeala, and his team, urging them to apprehend and prosecute the perpetrators. He assured the public of the state government’s unwavering commitment to justice in the matter.
3. Bago condemns burning of RCCG Church in Niger
Gov. Umaru Bago of Niger has condemned the burning of the Redeemed Christian Church of God by suspected hoodlums in Kontagora town.
Bago, in a statement by his Special Adviser, Aisha Wakaso, issued on Sunday in Minna, described the attack on the Church “as mindless and cowardly.”
According to reports some suspected hoodlums in the early hours of Saturday looted items and set ablaze the Church located along the Federal College of Education (FCE) road in Kontagora.
He said the barbaric act of burning and looting of the Church was not only an attack on the Christian community, but a direct affront to the peace and unity cherished in the state.
Bago condemned the act as he commiserate with Christian, as well as other Niger inhabitants as the government ensures safety, security, and freedom of religion.
4. Three Teenage Girls Drown in Jigawa Pond
Three teenage girls lost their lives in a tragic drowning incident on Saturday in Tulla village, Buji Local Government Area of Jigawa State.
According to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the victims were identified as Fatima Sule, Nasiya Sale, and Huwaila Sa’adu, all aged 12, except for Huwaila who was 13.
The incident occurred around 11 a.m. when the girls were collecting grass near the pond to feed their livestock.
A distress call was received by NSCDC personnel, who promptly initiated a rescue operation with the assistance of community members.
Unfortunately, the girls were found lifeless after about 30 minutes of searching.
Their bodies have been recovered and are currently at the nearest health center.
The NSCDC has extended its condolences to the bereaved families and urged residents to exercise caution, especially during the rainy season.
5. NYSC Denies Rumours of Account Upgrade for N70,000 Allowance
The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has dismissed as false reports circulating on social media that corps members are required to upgrade their bank accounts to receive the new N70,000 minimum wage.
In a statement issued on Sunday by the Director of Information and Public Relations, Eddy Megwa, the NYSC clarified that no directive has been issued regarding the payment of the new minimum wage to corps members.
The scheme urged corps members, parents, and the general public to disregard the information, emphasizing that official communication channels would be used for any updates on allowance adjustments.
NYSC also cautioned against falling victim to misinformation and urged corps members to exercise discernment.
6. NUJ Niger Council Elects New Exco
The Niger State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has elected a new executive committee to steer its affairs for the next three years.
The election, which held on Saturday, saw Abu Nmodu of Leadership Newspaper emerge as the new chairman. He will be deputized by Urea Gana of Newsline. Other elected officials include Usman and Mohammad Chiji (Niger Radio) as Secretary, Abubakar Kuta (State Ministry of Information) as Assistant Secretary, Habiba Etsu (State Ministry of Information) as Treasurer, Zakari Lambata (Niger Television Authority) as Financial Secretary, and Ndanusa Abdullahi (Federal Information) as Auditor.
Inaugurating the new executive, NUJ National President (represented by Vice President, Zone D, Chris Asaka) commended the council for the peaceful election process and urged the newly elected officials to work harmoniously for the benefit of all members.
7. Ebonyi Gov Commits N450m to Women Empowerment Project
Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Nwifuru, has announced a significant investment of N450 million in the Nigerian Women Project.
The World Bank-backed initiative aims to empower women across all facets of life.
During the opening ceremony of the Ebonyi Women’s August Meeting on Saturday, themed “A wise woman builds her home,” Governor Nwifuru emphasized the project’s focus on grassroots women, providing opportunities in agriculture, skills acquisition, and other income-generating ventures.
He urged women to instill in their children a deep understanding of their husbands’ cultural backgrounds.
The Governor commended the choice of theme for the conference, highlighting its relevance in recognizing women’s pivotal role in family and national development. He also acknowledged his wife’s contributions to the state’s progress.
The project is expected to be implemented across all 13 local government areas of the state.
8. Lagos Blue Line to Increase Daily Trips
The Lagos Blue Line rail service is set to increase its daily operations from 54 to 72 trips starting from Monday.
This was announced by the Managing Director of the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA), Mrs. Abimbola Akinajo.
The new schedule aims to reduce travel time between Marina and Mile 2 from 25 minutes to approximately 18 minutes. With a train departing every 18 minutes in both directions, commuters can expect improved travel planning.
To encourage off-peak travel, LAMATA has introduced a 25% fare discount for journeys between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM daily.
The transportation authority expects these changes to significantly reduce travel times, attract more off-peak riders, and ultimately lower transportation costs for commuters. The updated timetable is available on the LAMATA website, at stations, and on their social media platforms.
9. Kenneth Abana Is Dead
Ex-Rangers International Football Club player, Kenneth Abana has been reported dead after a protracted sickness at the age of 75.
Abana, who is also known as ‘Magic man’, was one of the pioneer members of the club who made waves in the 70s.
He died in his home town, Agu-Ukwu Nri, Anaocha Local Government Area of Anambra on Sunday.
His death was confirmed to newsmen by his son, Ifeanyi.
Ifeanyi said his remains has been deposited at a private mortuary.
