News
Philanthropist Vows To Complement Government’s Efforts In Peace Building In Kogi
From Joseph Amedu, Lokoja
A philanthropist and the Executive Officer Connected Development Code, Ambassador Hamsat Lawal has reiterated his commitment towards peace building in Kogi state.
Ambassador Lawal said that he will not relent in complementing government’s efforts towards the sustenance of the prevailing peace across the state. com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js">
Ambassador Lawal gave the assurance on Wednesday, at the Ohi of Okene’s Palace, in Okene local government area during his empowerment outreach and sensitisation programme for the people to embrace peace
Lawal who pointed out that no development can take place in the face of crises assured that efforts will be intensified towards ensuring a synergy among the citizenry to embrace dialogue in fostering development in the state.
The philanthropist, however, enjoined parents to always give proper education and parental care to their children so as to curb their excesses and other social vices at childhood and teenage period.
He pointed out that the empowerment programme of his Initiative code is aimed at improving the living standard of the less privileged women in the society and sensitisation of how to be financially responsible without much dependant on their husbands.
In his remarks, the Ohi of Okene, HRH, Isah Okatahi Mamman appreciated the Peace Ambassador, Lawal for initiating the empowerment programme aimed at improving the quality of lives ta the rural areas.
The Monarch who commended Ambassador Lawal for paying back to the society, however, enjoined other wealthy individuals in the state to emulate the good gesture of Ambassador Hamsat Lawal.
In his goodwill message, the
Chairman Kogi State forum of Senior Special Assistant, Hon.Dr Joseph Best A Omeiza
commended Hamzat Lawal, a proud son of Ebiraland who has distinguished himself globally through his work with an internationally recognized NGO—for bringing this vision home.
“This initiative speaks volumes about our shared commitment to youth development, inclusive growth, and sustainable community empowerment. It presents us with a vital opportunity to engage, reflect, and mobilize ourselves toward building a future where every young person is equipped, included, and inspired.” He said.
“Our objectives are not abstract
but are necessary to foster meaningful collaboration among youth leaders and stakeholders,
to identify practical opportunities for economic participation and personal growth, And most importantly, to empower our youth to lead with innovation, resilience, and impact.”
The chairman stressed that Lawal’s bold leadership, combined with his close partnership with “His Excellency, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, gives us confidence that initiatives like these will leave a lasting imprint.”
The Executive Officer Connected Development Code, Ambassador Hamsat Lawal has also visited Kogi State College of Nursing and Midwifery where he donated five hundred sanitary pads to the Provost for distribution to female students of the institution.
Ambassador Lawal reiterated his commitment to empowerment of women within his immediate society.
While presenting the materials to the provost of the institution, Lawal said the gesture is to give a helping hands to those who cannot afford this pads for the monthly menstrual period.
He pointed out that as a father of three daughters, “I must not shy away from the obvious. There are problems in the society that are not visible. We are trying our best to reduce some of these burdens on our parents by providing these pads for students”.
Ambassador Lawal therefore enjoined parents to always give priority attention to Girl- child education because according to him, if you train a girl, you’ve trained a nation.
After conducting the Philanthropist round the compound, the Provost of the college, Dr. James Duro thanked Ambassador Lawal for the extension of the gesture to the college assuring him of the judicious use of the gifts.
He also appealed his remarks, the chairman of the kogi state Forum of Senior special Assistants, Dr. Joseph Omeiza said
special attention has been given to a vital component of youth and gender empowerment—menstrual hygiene support through Sanitary Pad Empowerment adding that this focus is not only timely but transformative.
By supporting access to sanitary pads, ” we take a bold step towards
Reducing school absenteeism among girls, Improving health and hygiene outcomes , Boosting confidence and self-esteem and reinforcing the right of every girl to learn, thrive, and lead.”
“Menstrual health should never be a barrier to opportunity or dignity. Together, by breaking the silence and removing the stigma, we are helping to create a more inclusive and supportive society for women and girls in our communities.”
In the same vein, Ambassador Hamsat connected initiative code also donated 100 charcoal cooking stoves to women at Ogori mangogo local government and Upogoro women in Okene local government area respectively.
Ambassador Hamsat Lawal pointed out that the gesture is not only to reduce hazard in firewood fetching by women but to be proactive towards desert encroachment.
In her remarks, the commissioner for women Affairs, Hajia Fatima Momoh commended Ambassador Hamsat Lawal for the kind gesture towards alleviating the suffering of the women in the area.
The commissioner who was represented by Hajia Habitat Ajiga appealed to other wealthy individuals to emulate Lawal to pay back to the society.
Highlights of the occasion was the distribution of the charcoal cooking stoves and stipends for the beneficiaries at Ogori – Magogo and Upogoro area of Okene local government area respectively. the Executive Officer of the NGO to assist
Author Profile
Latest entries
NewsNovember 6, 2025Kogi Ministry Of Justice Partners NGO On Fight Against Gender-Based Violence
NewsNovember 6, 2025Ajia Mourns General Abdullahi Adangba, Condoles Emir of Ilorin and Ilorin Emirate
NewsNovember 6, 2025Fair Hearing for Kanu: AVID expressed deep concern over judicial standards
NewsNovember 5, 2025Unknown Gunmen kill 2 In Kogi Community
News
Kogi Ministry Of Justice Partners NGO On Fight Against Gender-Based Violence
From Joseph Amedu, Lokoja
The Kogi State Ministry of Justice, in collaboration with the non-governmental organization “Protect the Child Foundation” has launched a strategic partnership aimed at sustaining the fight against all forms of gender-based violence (GBV) in the state. js"> googlesyndication.com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js">
This was the focus of a one-day stakeholders’ workshop on “Sustaining the Fight Against Gender-Based Violence,” organized by the Ministry’s Directorate of Gender-Based Violence in collaboration with the Foundation and with the support of the French Embassy.
Stakeholders at the event called for the strengthening of Nigeria’s legal framework to ensure a sustained and coordinated response to gender-based violence across the country.
Delivering the keynote address, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice in Kogi State, Muizudeen Yunusa Abdullahi, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Falilat Yusuf Musa (Esq.), emphasized that combating GBV is a shared responsibility requiring collective commitment and action.
“The theme of today’s discourse
Justice, Protection, and Zero Tolerance: Sustaining the Fight Against Gender-Based Violence is not just a slogan but a strategic blueprint for action,” Abdullahi said.
“These three pillars Justice, Protection, and Zero Tolerance form the tripod upon which a safe, equitable, and dignified society must stand.”
He highlighted key legal instruments supporting the fight against GBV, including Sections 33, 34, and 42 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Law of Kogi State, 2022, and the Child’s Rights Law of Kogi State.
According to him, these laws collectively ensure that every citizen from infancy to adulthood—is shielded from violence, discrimination, and exploitation.
Abdullahi commended Governor Usman Ododo for his administration’s unwavering commitment to curbing the menace of sexual and gender-based violence in the state, noting that the governor’s leadership has provided “decisive action and clear direction” in ensuring justice for survivors.
“Under his leadership, we have a clear mandate to ensure that the full weight of the law is brought to bear on perpetrators without fear or favour,” he said. “In Kogi State, there is zero tolerance for gender-based violence.”
He called on law enforcement agencies to handle GBV cases with urgency and sensitivity, urged civil society partners to continue advocacy and survivor support, and challenged communities to break the culture of silence and stigma.
In her remarks, the Executive Director of “Protect the Child Foundation”, Barr. Elizabeth Achimugu, attributed the persistence of gender-based violence largely to poverty and called for the empowerment of the girl child as a key strategy to address the problem.
She stressed the need for community engagement and public awareness, noting that exposing perpetrators and ending stigmatization are crucial to combating GBV.
“Sexual and gender-based violence constitutes a grave violation of human rights and a public health crisis,” Achimugu said. “In Nigeria, despite the existence of relevant laws, enforcement remains weak, especially in rural communities where awareness is low.”
She cited alarming statistics from the Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) 2023, which reports that 31% of women aged 15–49 have experienced physical violence, while 7% have experienced sexual violence, often linked to harmful cultural practices.
Achimugu called for integrated, multi-sectoral approaches involving health, education, justice, and community systems, as well as economic empowerment initiatives for women and girls to reduce vulnerability to abuse.
Earlier, the Deputy Director of the Gender-Based Violence Directorate, Juliana Jonathan-Omale, underscored the need for sustained action, describing the workshop theme as “both a declaration and a challenge.”
“We have moved from breaking the silence to building systems of response,” she said. “Now we must ensure this fight is not a fleeting campaign but a lasting commitment built on strategy, resilience, and collaboration.”
Participants at the workshop, including traditional rulers, religious leaders, and civil society representatives, agreed that sustained progress against gender-based violence demands coordinated action, legal enforcement, and community-driven change to build a safer and more inclusive society.
Ends
Author Profile
Latest entries
NewsNovember 6, 2025Kogi Ministry Of Justice Partners NGO On Fight Against Gender-Based ViolenceNewsNovember 6, 2025Ajia Mourns General Abdullahi Adangba, Condoles Emir of Ilorin and Ilorin EmirateNewsNovember 6, 2025Fair Hearing for Kanu: AVID expressed deep concern over judicial standardsNewsNovember 5, 2025Unknown Gunmen kill 2 In Kogi Community
News
Ajia Mourns General Abdullahi Adangba, Condoles Emir of Ilorin and Ilorin Emirate
By AbdulRahman Obaje
Businessman and philanthropist, Alhaji Ibrahim Mohammed Ajia, the Dan Amanar of Fune Emirate, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Major General Abdullahi Mohammed Adangba (rtd), former Chief of Staff to two Nigerian Presidents, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo and Alhaji Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, who died on Tuesday in Abuja at the age of 86. googlesyndication.com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js">
Ajia, in a condolence message signed by his Director of Communications, Malam Abdulrahman Aliagan, and made available to journalists in Abuja, Ajia described the late General Adangba as “a rare patriot, seasoned administrator, and a disciplined officer whose life symbolized loyalty, humility, and selfless service to the nation.”
Ajia extended his heartfelt condolences to the Emir of Ilorin and Chairman of the Kwara State Traditional Council, Alhaji (Dr.) Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari CFR, and the entire Ilorin Emirate over what he described as “a monumental loss to Ilorin, Kwara State, and Nigeria at large.”
According to him, “The late General Adangba was not only a distinguished military officer and public servant but also a proud son of Ilorin whose contributions to national development and his community will never be forgotten. He served the country with uncommon dedication and left behind a legacy of integrity and honour.”
Ajia noted that the passing of General Adangba at this critical time has created a vacuum that will be difficult to fill, particularly among patriotic Nigerians who value truth, service, and national unity.
He prayed that Almighty Allah grants the departed soul Al-Jannah Firdaus and gives the Emir of Ilorin, the bereaved family, and the people of Ilorin the strength to bear the great loss.
“On behalf of my family and associates, I join the good people of Ilorin Emirate and the entire nation in mourning a statesman who gave his all for the peace and progress of our dear country,” the statement concluded.
Author Profile
Latest entries
NewsNovember 6, 2025Kogi Ministry Of Justice Partners NGO On Fight Against Gender-Based ViolenceNewsNovember 6, 2025Ajia Mourns General Abdullahi Adangba, Condoles Emir of Ilorin and Ilorin EmirateNewsNovember 6, 2025Fair Hearing for Kanu: AVID expressed deep concern over judicial standardsNewsNovember 5, 2025Unknown Gunmen kill 2 In Kogi Community
News
Fair Hearing for Kanu: AVID expressed deep concern over judicial standards
Our Correspondent
The American Veterans of Igbo Descent (AVID) has condemned what it described as a “continuing judicial travesty” in the ongoing trial of the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, before Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court, Abuja. adsbygoogle || []).push({});
AVID, in a statement issued on Thursday, November 6, 2025 and signed by its President, Chief Dr. Sylvester Onyia, AVID expressed “grave concern and total condemnation” over what it called the erosion of constitutional and judicial standards in Kanu’s case.
The statement alleged that the trial lacked legal foundation and violated both domestic and international principles of fair hearing.
“Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution (as amended) is clear under Section 36(12) that no person shall be tried for any criminal offence unless that offence and its penalty are defined in a written law,” the group stated.
“This is a bond editable constitutional safeguard, a cornerstone of due process, and a measure of any civilized nation’s commitment to justice.”
According to AVID, the Nigerian government continues to prosecute Kanu under the repealed Terrorism (Prevention) (Amendment) Act, 2013, despite the enactment of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, which replaced it.
“Yet, before the world and under Justice Omotosho’s watch, the Nigerian state persists in trying Mazi Nnamdi Kanu under a dead law — the Terrorism (Prevention) (Amendment) Act, 2013 — which ceased to exist upon the enactment of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022,” AVID said.
“Justice Omotosho, contrary to the mandatory duty of judicial notice under Section 122(2)(a) of the Evidence Act, has refused to acknowledge this repeal. This is not a mere oversight; it is a judicial dereliction of constitutional duty.”
The group further faulted the judge’s alleged decision to defer ruling on issues of jurisdiction and double jeopardy until final judgment, insisting that such questions strike at the root of any criminal trial.
“Justice Omotosho’s posture of ‘wait till judgment’ on questions of jurisdiction, double jeopardy, and validity of charge is the opposite of established precedents of the Supreme Court of Nigeria,” the statement noted.
“Jurisdictional defects strike at the root of a case and must be determined forthwith, not deferred. No court, no matter how highly placed, can arrogate to itself jurisdiction it does not possess,” the statement emphasised.
AVID cited Section 76(1)(d)(iii) of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, which, it said, requires that any alleged terrorism committed abroad must also constitute an offence in the jurisdiction where it occurred — in this case, Kenya, where Kanu was allegedly abducted.
“This double criminality requirement has not been met, yet the judge insists on proceeding, thus nullifying the moral and legal foundation of the entire trial,” the group argued.
The organization also accused Nigeria’s legal and judicial institutions of silence in the face of what it termed “constitutional infidelity.”
“It is appalling that in the face of such manifest constitutional infidelity, Nigeria’s legal institutions — the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), the National Judicial Council (NJC), and so-called legal analysts — have chosen cowardly silence,” the group lamented.
“A nation whose lawyers fear to ask, ‘Under what law is this man being tried?’ has surrendered its conscience to tyranny,” the group added.
AVID also expressed concern over what it called “the destruction of every element of fair hearing” guaranteed under Section 36(1) of the Constitution.
“From the denial of access to lawyers and family in DSS custody to the judicial disregard of documentary evidence before the court, every element of fair hearing has been destroyed in Justice Omotosho’s court,” it said.
Citing an incident in open court, the veterans’ group claimed Kanu had asked for a brief recess in the judge’s chambers “to prevent the judiciary’s embarrassment” but was denied.
“When Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, in court, asked for a five-minute recess in the judge’s chambers to prevent the judiciary’s embarrassment, he was rebuffed,” AVID said.
“When he raised the profound constitutional question — ‘Under what law am I being tried?’ — Justice Omotosho retorted, ‘Wait till judgment.’ That a sitting Federal High Court judge can preside over a criminal trial without identifying a subsisting law is the ultimate indictment of Nigeria’s judicial decay,” AVID stressed.
The group called on international bodies, including the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC), the U.S. Department of State, the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights, and the International Criminal Court (ICC), to monitor and document what it described as “ongoing judicial abuses in Nigeria.”
“The trial of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, in its present form, is not just a constitutional aberration but an affront to international human rights standards on fair trial and rule of law,” the statement read.
AVID urged Nigeria to “choose between law and lawlessness,” saying the ongoing proceedings undermine the nation’s claim to democracy.
“Justice Omotosho’s courtroom has become a theatre of constitutional absurdity — a place where a man is asked to defend himself against a non-existent law, where judicial notice is optional, and where constitutional provisions are treated as irritants,” the group said.
“If Nigeria still claims to be a constitutional democracy, it must immediately halt this charade, restore the rule of law, and release Mazi Nnamdi Kanu unconditionally.”
Author Profile
Latest entries
NewsNovember 6, 2025Kogi Ministry Of Justice Partners NGO On Fight Against Gender-Based ViolenceNewsNovember 6, 2025Ajia Mourns General Abdullahi Adangba, Condoles Emir of Ilorin and Ilorin EmirateNewsNovember 6, 2025Fair Hearing for Kanu: AVID expressed deep concern over judicial standardsNewsNovember 5, 2025Unknown Gunmen kill 2 In Kogi Community