News
Stakeholders in Anambra have responded to the tragic stampede at Okija rice market that resulted in the loss of 22 lives.
The recent stampede during a Christmas rice-sharing event in Okija, Anambra, has left a profound mark on the community, with 22 confirmed fatalities as reported by the Police Command in Anambra. This tragic incident has prompted widespread grief among stakeholders, who have expressed their condolences and emphasized the urgent need for economic empowerment and enhanced safety measures during public events.
Chief Barth Nwibe, a prominent governorship aspirant for the upcoming November 2025 elections, lamented the loss of life, highlighting the stark reality that individuals were striving to secure basic sustenance. He articulated that the victims, in their desperate pursuit of food, should not be blamed for their plight but rather seen as reflections of the broader economic hardships permeating Nigerian society. Nwibe stated, “This incident highlights the dire situation in our society today,” underscoring the necessity for systemic change to alleviate such distressing circumstances.
In a similar vein, Chief Akai Egwuonwu, Managing Director of Stine Mill Industries, expressed sorrow over the demographic affected by the tragedy, noting the loss of vulnerable groups, including women, the elderly, and children. He called for a renewed focus on safety and crowd management during charitable distributions, urging organizations to prioritize the well-being of beneficiaries to prevent future calamities.
Chief Uzo Obi, Managing Director and CEO of Jozo Environmental Services Limited, echoed these sentiments, reflecting on the irony of a season marked by joy and celebration being overshadowed by such sorrow. He emphasized the critical need for community empowerment to foster self-reliance, stating, “There is a need to empower people to become self-reliant.”
As the community mourns this tragic loss, it is imperative for both event organizers and stakeholders to heed these calls for safety and economic support. The Okija incident serves as a poignant reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by many in society and the collective responsibility to ensure that goodwill does not lead to unintended consequences. The path forward must prioritize the safety and dignity of all individuals, particularly those in need.
In response to the escalating conflict between Iran and Israel, the United Kingdom is deploying fighter jets and other military assets to the Middle East. Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced the deployment, stating it is for “contingency support.”
The Prime Minister has engaged in discussions with both US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, emphasizing the need for de-escalation. Foreign Secretary David Lammy has also communicated with Iranian officials, urging restraint and emphasizing the importance of protecting civilians.
The UK’s actions reflect a commitment to regional stability and a concerted effort to prevent further escalation of the conflict. Ongoing discussions with allies aim to de-escalate the situation and promote a peaceful resolution.
Foreign
A person who attacked and killed a Nigerian schoolboy with a sword in the UK has been sentenced to life in prison.
Marcus Monzo, a 37-year-old of Spanish-Brazilian descent, has been sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 40 years for the murder of 14-year-old Daniel Anjorin in Hainault, northeast London. The sentencing follows Monzo’s conviction for the unprovoked and brutal attack on Daniel, as well as attacks on other members of the public and police officers, in April of last year.
The court heard how Monzo, under the influence of cannabis-induced psychosis, initiated a violent rampage, culminating in the near-decapitation of Daniel Anjorin as the young boy walked to school. Judge Joel Bennathan strongly condemned Monzo’s actions, acknowledging the profound grief inflicted upon Daniel’s family.
Judge Bennathan also commended the bravery of the police officers involved, highlighting their courage in confronting and disarming Monzo, thereby protecting the public. Monzo’s sentence reflects the severity of his crimes and the devastating impact on the victims and the community.
In a coordinated effort between the Nigeria Police Force and Chinese authorities, a Chinese national wanted on charges of tax fraud has been arrested in Lagos and repatriated to China. The suspect, Chen Gaochong, was apprehended on June 24 following an operation led by the INTERPOL National Central Bureau in Abuja, prompted by a formal request from the Chinese government.
Mr. Chen is accused by the Peixian Public Security Bureau in Jiangsu Province of issuing falsified Value Added Tax (VAT) invoices totaling 4.97 million renminbi (approximately N1,057,561,330). He allegedly used the names of Linhai Guangyong and Linhai Beilaisi to generate 45 fake VAT invoices issued to Xuzhou Wanfeng Plastic Industry Company between May and August 2017.
Authorities stated that Mr. Chen fled China in November 2019, moving through Hong Kong and Burkina Faso before unlawfully entering Nigeria in 2021. He reportedly avoided renewing his passport to conceal his identity. An arrest warrant was issued in July 2020.
Mr. Chen was handed over to Chinese law enforcement on July 3. Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun affirmed that Nigeria will not serve as a refuge for fugitives, emphasizing the significance of international cooperation in combating cross-border crime. The Nigeria Police Force reiterated its commitment to collaborating with international law enforcement agencies and upholding mutual legal assistance obligations.
UK Deploys Military Assets to Middle East Amidst Escalating Iran-Israel Conflict.
A person who attacked and killed a Nigerian schoolboy with a sword in the UK has been sentenced to life in prison.
Chinese Tax Fraud Suspect Apprehended in Nigeria, Repatriated to China.
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News8 hours agoChinese Tax Fraud Suspect Apprehended in Nigeria, Repatriated to China.
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Foreign8 hours agoA person who attacked and killed a Nigerian schoolboy with a sword in the UK has been sentenced to life in prison.
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Foreign8 hours agoUK Deploys Military Assets to Middle East Amidst Escalating Iran-Israel Conflict.