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Military, EFCC Reject clause to Criminalize payment to Terrorists in the Senate Bill

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Logo of Navy, EFCC and file Picture: Senator Michael Opeyemi Bamidele
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The Military and Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC)  have rejected a clause that proposed criminalization of ransom payment to abductors, terrorists and kidnappers in an attempt to secure release of hostages in the Terrorism Prevention Act (Amendment) Bill 2021

A representative of the Chief of Naval Staff, Rear Admiral KO Egbuchulam, spoke at the National Assembly, Abuja during a public  hearing on Terrorism Prevention Act (Amendment) Bill 2021, which seeks to outlaw payment of ransom to secure the release of captives.

The hearing was organized by Senate committees Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters; and Anti-Corruption and Financial Crimes chaired by Senator Opeyemi Bamidele.

Section 14 of the bill provides that, “Anyone who transfers funds, makes payment or colludes with an abductor, kidnapper or terrorist to receive any ransom for the release of any person who has been wrongfully confined, imprisoned or kidnapped is guilty of a felony and is liable on conviction to a term of imprisonment of not less than 15 years.”

Egbuchulam, however, said instead of outright criminalisation, negotiation or payment of ransom should be subjected to security vetting.

He said, “It is suggested that the Bill could make the negotiation/proposed payment of ransom to kidnappers or terrorists to secure release of hostages subject to the prior knowledge of ONSA/Armed Forces of Nigeria/Police for coordination.

“It is opined that subjecting such payment of ransom to security vetting and tracking is preferable to outright criminalization.”

Also , the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), represented by the Director, Legal and Prosecution Department, Chile Okoroma  applauded most of the provision of the bill, but kicked against prosecution of somebody that paid ransome saying it should be narrow down to those who received ransome not those that paid the ransome.

According to him, the bill on Terrorism is well intended , but the issue of prosecuting those that paid ransome should be looked at , it should be narrow it to those who received payment for ransome.

But, Nigerian Correctional Service in its presentation agreed with all provision of the bill including the Prosecution of anyone that paid ransome.

According to Correctional Service, we agree with the proposed amendment to this bill.

In his opening remarks, Senator Bamidele said sought to outlaw payment of ransom to abductors , Kidnappers and Terrorists for release of someone who have been wrongly confined or imprisoned.

He said, ” The Terrorism (Prevention) Act, 2013 (Amendment) Bill, 202 The Bill was sponsored by Senator Ezenwa Francis Onyewuchi. (Imo East Senatorial District).

” The Bill, among other things, seeks to amend the Terrorism (Prevention) Act, 2013 in order to outlaw the payment of ransom to abductors, kidnappers and terrorists for the release of any person who has been wronfully confined, imprisoned or kidnapped.”

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Appreciation: “We Are Grateful for Your Support” – Ajia

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By AbdulRahman Obaje

The Ajia Ogbonde family of Ilorin has expressed deep and heartfelt appreciation to individuals, families, religious leaders, institutions, dignitaries, and well-wishers who stood by them during the mourning period following the passing of their beloved matriarch, Hajiya Maryam Mohammed Ajia.

In a press statement personally signed by Alhaji Ibrahim Mohammed Ajia, the Dan Amanar Fune, on behalf of the family, the Ajia Ogbonde clan expressed immense gratitude for the outpouring of love, prayers, and condolences received from across the country and beyond.

Describing the support as overwhelming, the family acknowledged the role played by those who participated in the Janaza rites at the National Mosque, Abuja, and those who made time to attend the 3rd Day and 7th Day Fidau prayers held in Abuja and Ilorin respectively, despite their tight schedules.

“We are truly grateful to everyone who stood in solidarity with us during this painful moment. Your presence, prayers, and words of comfort meant so much to us,” the statement read.

The family offered special thanks to His Royal Highness, the Emir of Ilorin, Mai-Martaba Sheikh (Dr.) Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, CFR, for his fatherly support and spiritual leadership during the mourning period.

They also appreciated His Royal Highness, the Emir of Fune, Dr. Idris Saleh Uthman, for honouring the family through a powerful delegation led by the District Head of Cubana to the Abuja Fidau prayer.

The statement listed an array of dignitaries and high-profile personalities whose presence and messages of condolence brought great comfort to the bereaved family. These include former Senate Presidents Sen. Anyim Pius Anyim (GCON) and Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, the Waziri of Ilorin, and former Inspector-General of Police IGP MD Abubakar (CFR).

Also acknowledged were former Kwara State Governor, HE Abdulfatah Ahmed, former Minister of Youth and Sports, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, former Minister of Power, Engr. Abubakar D. Aliyu, current Senator representing Kwara Central, Sen. Saliu Mustapha, Sen. Ibrahim Yahaya Oloriegbe, former DG of NEMA, Alhaji Sani Sidi, and Prof. Oba Abdulraheem, former Chairman of the Federal Character Commission.

The sitting Governor of Kwara State was represented by Alhaji Abdulrazak Jidda at the 7th Day Fidau prayer in Ilorin.

Other prominent individuals and community leaders recognized for their support include Alhaji Tajudeen Ibrahim Eleku, Alhaji Toyin Abubakar, Prof. Zanna Mohammed (Nile University), Alhaji Mohammed Bukar, Sarkin Sumaila Alhaji Bello Dansumaila, Engr. Musa Saidu, Engr. Ibrahim Usman, Engr. Kamaldeen Ubandawaki, Barr. Ismail Ahmed, Alhaji Mohammed Adamu Cimo, and executives of Saiha Network.

Particular gratitude was extended to the Council of Ulama of Kwara State, led by the Chief Imam of Ilorin, Sheikh Muhammad Bashir (CON), and the FCT Council of Ulama, including Sheikh Abdulkadir Oba Sholagberu, Sheikh Fuad Adeyemi, and Sheikh Sharafudeen Aliagan, for their spiritual guidance and physical presence during the mourning.

The family also commended members of the Nigeria Police Force, particularly Courses 21 and 36/2002, various youth groups, political party stakeholders from the PDP, APC, and a new coalition party, as well as War College Estate Muslim Community and Resident Association, members of the National Assembly, Federal Executive Council, and the business and academic communities.

Also mentioned among the sympathizers were Engr. Suleiman Yahaya Alapasanpa (Danmasani of Ilorin), Sarauniya of Ilorin, Hajia Muinat Shagaya, Hajiya Saadat Dogobauchi, Princess Aisha Bubaram (ED North, First Bank Plc), Hon. Muktar Aliyu Betara, Sen. Haliru Jika, Hon. Ibrahim Jimba Baba, Hon. Nalaraba, Hon. Kabir Tukura, Hon. Jaafar Mubi, Chairman of Sobi FM, Alhaji Lukman Mustapha, Hon. Ladi Hassan, Engr. Kale Kawu, Ambassador Abdulfatai Yahaya Seriki, Hon. Ahmed Yinka Aluko, Hon. Muktar Shagaya, Alhaji Sheriff Shagaya, Alhaji Hakeem Shagaya, former Kwara Assembly Speakers, Hon. Ali Ahmad and Hon. Razaq Atunwa, as well as the executives of IEDPU and IEYDPU.

“We are indeed overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and support during our moment of grief. The legacy of our beloved mother, Hajiya Maryam Mohammed Ajia, lives on in our hearts,” the family stated.

The Ajia Ogbonde family concluded the message by praying for Allah’s mercy upon the departed soul and asking for divine blessings upon all who shared in their pain.

“We pray that Almighty Allah grants our dear mother Aljannatul Firdaus and continues to unite us in peace and brotherhood. We shall forever remain grateful.”

Late Hajiya Maryam Mohammed Ajia was a revered matriarch known for her piety, wisdom, and compassion. Her life, the family said, remains an enduring source of inspiration and spiritual strength.

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Ododo Mourns Late Former President Muhammadu Buhari

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From Joseph Amedu, Lokoja

Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi State has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Former President Muhammadu Buhari.

Ododo in a statement signed by the State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, described President Buhari’s passing as a monumental loss not only to Nigeria, but to the African continent, and indeed the world.

He described President Buhari as a leader of quiet strength, deep convictions, and a patriotic heart wholly committed to the unity, progress, and stability of Nigeria.

Ododo further described the death if the former president as “a moment of national grief and a reminder of the enduring legacy of discipline, integrity and sacrifice that President Buhari stood for.

“President Buhari was a man who came at different times in our national history to steer the ship of state with a deep sense of responsibility.

“He was not a man of many words, but one whose actions consistently reflected his belief in a better, safer, and more self-reliant Nigeria.”

“Kogi State will remember him for his commitment to critical infrastructure, national security, and his consistent stand against corruption.

“His efforts laid a solid foundation upon which successive administrations, including ours in Kogi, continue to build.

“We stand in solidarity with the Government and people of Katsina State, the family of the late statesman, and indeed all Nigerians, as we mourn a patriot who gave his all in service to the nation.

“May Allah (SWT) forgive his shortcomings and grant him Aljannah Firdaus.”

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DG Kogi State Government House Administration Honors Outgoing Permanent Secretary, Mr. Olajide Samuel

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By Abah Benjamin Eneojoh

Director General of the Kogi State Government House Administration, Dr (Alh) Shuaibu Umar Oricha, July 10, 2025 in Lokoja described Mr. Samuel Olajide JP as “truly worth celebrating,” commending his humility and exceptional character. “I have no doubt that he is heading to greater heights. He should prepare for even bigger responsibilities,” Alhaji Oricha said.

Dr Oricha during a Sendforth Party Organized by the Ministry of Finance, Budget and Economic Planning in collaboration with the Pooled PRS Staff noted that he was always happy with the level of dedication of the celebrant, stressing that any time it was the time for budget preparation and the celebrant was around , I will always go and sleep because a capable hand is available.

“Today I can stand tall to congratulate you as a permanent secretary of Budget and Economic Planning.
I stand bold to say that your have retired but not tired.
I want to personally appreciate you for recognising yesterday. You are indeed a normal human being”
On behalf of Government Administration I wish you success in your endeavours” he said.

He also assured the Celebrant that the Governor, the Chief Servant of the state His Excellency Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo was aware of your retirement adding that the celebrant deserves higher responsibility.

The Commissioner for Finance, Budget, and Economic Planning, Hon. Asiwaju Idris, praised Mr. Samuel’s tireless role in developing the State Development Plan, emphasizing the importance of diligence and integrity in public service. “When given a task, do it with all your heart. The results will speak louder than the praises of men,” Hon. Idris stated.

Head of the Civil Service, Mr. Elijah Evinemi, noted that Mr. Samuel’s name became synonymous with excellence during his tenure, thanks to his ability to lead with empathy and empower others. “This transition marks not an end, but the beginning of a new chapter,” Mr. Evenemi added.

The ceremony was attended by various stakeholders, including the Acting Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Sarah Ocheja, who commended Mr. Samuel for his service and mentorship.

Amb. Idris Muriana, Chairperson of the Kogi NGOs Network, also praised Mr. Samuel’s people-oriented mindset and commitment to serving the public.

Mr. Olajide Samuel, the outgoing Permanent Secretary of Budget in Kogi State’s Ministry of Finance, Budget, and Economic Planning, was celebrated for his dedication, impactful contributions, and meritorious service. He was praised of his humility, exceptional leadership, and commitment to fiscal discipline.
The ceremony highlighted Mr. Samuel’s achievements and the impact of his service on Kogi State’s development

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