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Voice Of Edo, Port Harcourt (2025)

05/12/2024

Big shout-out to my newest top fans! James Izekor

05/12/2024

*The Brazen Destruction of Nigerian Dignity by Political Elites*

Part 1

The arraignment of Dele Farotimi on spurious defamation charges lays bare the calculated tyranny of Nigeria’s political and legal elites.

This act, orchestrated by a complicit judiciary and emboldened by a corrupt government, is not merely an attack on an individual but a vile testament to the systemic rot that has paralyzed our nation. It is a blatant reminder that in Nigeria, truth-tellers are silenced while looters are celebrated.

For decades, political elites have stripped Nigeria of its dignity, mortgaging its future to feed their insatiable greed. Under their stewardship, over 200 million citizens have been condemned to poverty, hunger, and despair.

The country’s vast resources, capable of transforming the lives of its people, have been siphoned off to build empires for a select few. This is not governance; it is treachery at the highest level.

Dele Farotimi, in his book Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System, dared to expose the web of corruption choking the judiciary, accusing influential figures like Afe Babalola of perpetuating systemic injustices.

Instead of confronting these allegations with integrity, the response has been predictable: weaponize the courts, suppress dissent, and remind Nigerians that the elite are untouchable.

What justice exists in a nation where the police abduct a man under the cover of darkness, acting not as enforcers of the law but as thugs for the powerful? What hope is there for the common Nigerian when the courts, meant to safeguard liberty, become instruments of oppression?

This Gestapo-style harassment of critics is symptomatic of a deeper problem—the deliberate weaponization of institutions to protect the interests of a corrupt ruling class.

The APC government, along with its predecessors, has overseen the systematic dismantling of Nigeria’s potential. They have left a trail of failed promises, stagnant development, and unparalleled corruption.

They have looted the treasury, impoverished millions, and reduced Nigeria to a shadow of its greatness. Their actions are not mere negligence; they are acts of war against the very people they swore to serve.

*Nigerians must awaken to this reality:* we are at war with an entrenched elite that thrives on our silence and submission. Every stolen naira, every silenced critic, and every manipulated election is a step further into the abyss. This is not the Nigeria our forebears envisioned, and it is not the Nigeria we must accept.

The arraignment of Dele Farotimi is a battle in a larger war for the soul of this nation. His courage in calling out the cabal of corrupt politicians, lawyers, and justices should inspire us all to resist the forces that seek to enslave us. If we remain silent, we endorse our oppression.

Let it be known to the political elites and their cronies: your time is up. Nigerians are rising.

The hunger and poverty you have sown will one day consume you. Justice will prevail, not in your kangaroo courts but in the hearts and actions of a liberated people.

True Patriot

03/12/2024

Reports emerging from Lagos indicate that renowned human rights activist and lawyer Dele Farotimi has been detained by unidentified individuals, sparking widespread concern over his safety and the circumstances surrounding his arrest.

Farotimi, known for his unwavering advocacy for justice and transparency in Nigeria, was reportedly apprehended at his office in Lekki Phase 1 early this morning. Witnesses state that a group of plainclothes men arrived at the scene and escorted him away without providing any explanation or identification.

As of this report, no government agency or security body has claimed responsibility for the arrest. Repeated attempts to contact Farotimi via phone have been unsuccessful, and his current location remains unknown.

Sources close to the situation suggest that the arrest may be linked to a defamation suit filed by prominent businessman Tony Elumelu, though details of the legal dispute remain speculative at this time. Neither Farotimi’s legal team nor representatives of Mr. Elumelu have issued statements addressing the alleged connection.

The apparent disappearance of such a high-profile figure raises significant questions about due process and transparency in law enforcement practices. Public outcry from civic organizations and Farotimi’s supporters has already begun to mount, with demands for clarity on the motivations behind his arrest and immediate disclosure of his whereabouts.

29/11/2024

*The Dark Days of August: Protesters Fall to Police Brutality*

Kano, Nigeria – Twenty-four lives were cut short during the protests this August, according to a chilling report by Amnesty International. These protests, born of frustration over economic hardship, turned tragic as security forces responded with lethal force.

From August 1 to 10, citizens in Kano, Borno, Kaduna, Katsina, Jigawa, and Niger states took to the streets, their banners bearing calls for justice. For many, these calls became their last. Amnesty’s investigation revealed that every life lost was the result of live ammunition fired at close range, often to the head or chest.

The protests also saw over 1,200 people arrested, including minors. Reports describe harsh detentions and brutal conditions. Survivors recount injuries from gunfire and the suffocating effects of tear gas, many left with physical and emotional scars.

Isa Sanusi, Amnesty International’s Country Director, unveiled the findings on Thursday. "The excessive use of force is unacceptable. Protest is a right, not a crime," he said, calling for accountability and reform.

The families of the fallen are left to grieve. Sons and daughters, brothers and sisters, lives filled with hope and promise, now reduced to memories. The streets where they marched for change have become silent witnesses to their sacrifice.

Despite the sorrow, the call for justice grows stronger. Activists and human rights advocates demand action, urging authorities to hold those responsible accountable. Yet, for many, trust in the system remains shaken.

While the protests have quieted, their echoes linger. The struggle for justice and reform continues, fueled by the memory of those who gave everything in the hope of a better tomorrow.

The story of August is a somber reminder of the price of change. Nigeria’s people remain resilient, their voices unwavering. The world watches, and history waits to see how the nation will respond to this call for justice.

27/11/2024

Court Drama as Yahaya Bello and Co-Defendants Face Fraud Charges

Abuja— _Former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello stood amidst chaos in the courtroom on Wednesday, taking charge of an unruly crowd after Justice Maryann Anenih abruptly left in frustration_ .

The Federal Capital Territory High Court had barely commenced hearing a ₦110.4 billion fraud case against Bello and his co-defendants when the tension boiled over, turning the proceedings into a spectacle.

Bello, along with co-defendants Shuabu Oricha and Abdulsalami Hudu, faced accusations of criminal breach of trust and conspiracy. All pleaded not guilty.

Their fate now hangs on a bail application, with Justice Anenih ordering their remand at the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) facility until December 10, when a ruling is expected.

The allegations stem from Bello’s tenure as Kogi State Governor. Prosecutors say he and his co-defendants conspired to misappropriate public funds. The charges were read aloud, each one met with a firm "not guilty" from the defendants.

J.B. Daudu, SAN, representing the defense, argued for bail, pointing to Bello’s voluntary court appearance as a sign of his respect for the law. "The principle of innocence until proven guilty must guide this court," Daudu insisted.

EFCC counsel Kemi Piniero, SAN, countered the bail plea, accusing the defense of jumping the gun. "Bail applications must follow arraignment," he argued. "This preemptive filing disrespects court procedures." The judge acknowledged the submissions and deferred her decision.

The case has been anything but straightforward. On October 3, the court issued a summons for Bello after multiple no-shows. Legal disputes tied up proceedings, with higher courts intervening. Ultimately, the Court of Appeal compelled Bello to appear for arraignment.

EFCC investigators have been relentless. Bello was interrogated at their headquarters on Tuesday, following accusations that Kogi State's government had exploited immunity clauses to shield him.

As the legal battle unfolds, the spotlight remains fixed on Bello. His fall from the governorship to the defendant’s dock paints a grim picture, one that has captured national attention.

Justice, however, moves deliberately. The next act in this courtroom drama resumes on December 10. Until then, Bello and his co-defendants wait behind EFCC walls, the weight of ₦110.4 billion hanging heavily in the air.

27/11/2024

*CBN Raises Interest Rate to 27.5% Amid Renewed Inflationary Pressures*

3-5min Read

In a decisive move to combat escalating inflationary pressures, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has raised its Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) by 25 basis points, bringing it to 27.5%. The announcement was made by Governor Yemi Cardoso, who also chairs the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC), at the conclusion of its meeting in Abuja.

The committee unanimously agreed on the hike, citing the need to tighten monetary policy to address persistent price pressures. Other key monetary policy parameters were left unchanged: the Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR) remains at 50% for Deposit Money Banks and 16% for Merchant Banks, the Liquidity Ratio stays at 30%, and the Asymmetric Corridor holds steady at +500/-100 basis points around the MPR.

Rising Inflationary Concerns

The decision comes against the backdrop of renewed inflationary pressures in October 2024. Data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) revealed that headline inflation climbed to 33.88%, the highest in years. Governor Cardoso emphasized that the MPC considered rising measures of inflation—headline, core, and food inflation—which all recorded year-on-year and month-on-month increases.

"The meeting was held on the backdrop of renewed inflationary pressures as the headline, food, and core measures rose year-on-year in October 2024," Cardoso stated. "The committee was particularly concerned that all three measures also ticked up on a month-on-month basis, suggesting the persistence of price pressure with an adverse impact on the income and welfare of citizens. Members therefore agreed unanimously to remain focused on addressing price developments."

An Aggressive Approach to Inflation Control

Since assuming office, Cardoso has led the MPC through six interest rate hikes aimed at curbing inflationary trends. Under his leadership, the MPR has risen from 18.75% to 27.5%—a cumulative increase of over 800 basis points.

The first increase raised the rate to 22.75%.

Subsequent hikes moved the rate to 24.75%, 26.25%, and 26.75%.

A further 50-basis-point hike in September brought the rate to 27.25%.

These aggressive measures reflect the CBN’s determination to rein in inflation, particularly high core and food inflation, which have strained household incomes and destabilized price stability in the economy.

Outlook and Implications

The latest rate hike underscores the CBN's unwavering commitment to monetary tightening, despite potential short-term costs such as reduced credit availability and slower economic growth. Analysts suggest that the persistence of inflationary pressures may call for further interventions in the near term.

As inflation erodes purchasing power and heightens economic uncertainty, the CBN’s actions signal its prioritization of price stability as a cornerstone of sustainable economic development.

In an economy battling inflation at 33.88%, the stakes are high. The CBN's proactive approach may be the decisive factor in ensuring stability in a challenging macroeconomic landscape—or it could mean further economic misery for the 200+ million Nigerians struggling with the hardships of economic decline.

14/11/2024

JUST IN: Troops Nab Oil Thieves, Seize Weapons and Stolen Crude in Major Niger Delta Operation

From October 21 to 27, 2024, troops of the 6 Division of the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with other security agencies, intensified their crackdown on illegal oil bunkering across Rivers, Delta, Bayelsa, and Akwa Ibom states, leading to multiple arrests and significant seizures.

Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma Jonah Danjuma, Acting Deputy Director of 6 Division Army Public Relations, reported the extensive operations resulted in the deactivation of 34 illegal refining sites, the destruction of 19 boats and eight vehicles, and the arrest of 27 suspected oil thieves. Over 215,000 liters of stolen petroleum products were seized across the Joint Operations Area (JOA).

In Rivers State, targeted operations in Abesa, Bukuma, and Bille in Degema Local Government Area led to the shutdown of three illegal refineries and the recovery of over 100,000 liters of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO). In Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni LGA, troops seized arms and ammunition from a suspect involved in oil theft.

Similar outcomes were achieved in Delta, Bayelsa, and Akwa Ibom, where troops intercepted wooden boats loaded with stolen crude, dismantled illegal refining operations, and confiscated equipment linked to oil theft.

Major General Jamal Abdussalam, General Officer Commanding, 6 Division, commended the troops for their commitment, urging ongoing vigilance to secure the region and support safe socio-economic activities.

06/11/2024

Donald J Trump emerges Victorious!*

With seven results left to count, Trump held 266 electoral votes. Kamala Harris trailed at 216—a gap few had foreseen. The Republicans seemed poised to reclaim the Senate, marking a significant shift in Washington.

The implications of Trump’s return to the White House reach far beyond American borders. He has promised to end the wars in the Middle East and Ukraine, though his strategy for achieving peace remains uncertain.

Across Israel, polls showed a clear preference for Trump over Harris. Many believed his victory would bolster security for the Jewish state. As the votes poured in, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was swift to congratulate him. In a message to Trump and his wife, he hailed the “greatest comeback in history,” calling Trump’s return a “new beginning for America” and a renewed commitment to the alliance between Israel and the United States.

From London, Prime Minister Keir Starmer extended his own congratulations. “President-elect Trump, on behalf of the United Kingdom, congratulations on your historic win,” he said. Starmer spoke of the enduring bond between the two nations, expressing his eagerness to work with Trump on shared priorities—security, growth, innovation—promising the transatlantic partnership would thrive for years to come.

Kamala Harris, still vice-president, had yet to concede. Her aides remained silent in the wake of the defeat. For now, America and the world awaited the dawn of a new era.

11/10/2024

Title: BREAKING FREE FROM DIGITAL DISTRACTION: _HOW TO REGAIN CONTROL OF YOUR LIFE_

Angela Iyobosa

3-5 min Read

Introduction: In an age where our phones are always within arm’s reach and social media constantly calls for our attention, it’s no surprise that many of us feel overwhelmed and distracted.

While technology has brought many benefits, it has also led to an increase in distractions that prevent us from living fully present lives. It’s time to take back control, reduce the noise, and start living with purpose again.

The Digital Trap: Think about how many times a day you check your phone.

Whether it's for emails, social media updates, or mindless scrolling, the reality is that we are constantly being pulled in different directions. Each notification, each new message, drags us away from what really matters. The digital world has created a trap—one that keeps us entertained but often leaves us feeling empty.

Why It's Important to Disconnect: Our mental and emotional health are at stake.

Studies have shown that excessive screen time can lead to anxiety, depression, and even a reduction in productivity. In a world where multitasking is praised, we often forget that focus is the real key to success.

By constantly shifting our attention, we lose the ability to be fully engaged in the present moment, and that is a danger to our personal and professional growth.

Practical Steps to Break Free: Breaking free from digital distractions is not about abandoning technology altogether. It’s about managing how we use it.

Here are some of my steps to regain control:

Set Boundaries: Designate specific times to check your phone, email, or social media. Create ‘no-phone zones’ during meals, before bed, and while spending time with loved ones.

Turn Off Non-Essential Notifications: Every ping is a distraction. Limit notifications to essential communications like work or family. You don’t need to be alerted every time someone likes a post or sends a meme.

Schedule Time Away from Screens: Dedicate at least an hour a day to activities that don’t involve screens—whether it’s reading a book, exercising, or spending time outdoors.

Use Technology Mindfully: When you’re online, be intentional. Instead of aimlessly scrolling, decide what you want to accomplish and focus on that.

Prioritize Real-Life Connections: Human interaction is more valuable than any digital connection. Invest in building deeper, more meaningful relationships with the people around you.

The Benefits of Regaining Focus: When you reduce distractions and regain control over your time, you’ll notice several positive changes. Increased productivity, improved relationships, and a deeper sense of fulfillment are just a few of the rewards that come from intentional living.

By being present, you will make better decisions and achieve your goals more effectively.Conclusion: We live in a time where distractions are constant, but that doesn’t mean we are powerless. By taking simple steps to reduce digital interference, we can regain control of our lives and focus on what truly matters.

Don’t let the digital world control you. Break free and start living with intention today.

25/10/2023

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