Headlines
Supreme Court Reverses Terrorism Charges Dismissal for Nnamdi Kanu
Supreme Court Reverses Terrorism Charges Dismissal for Nnamdi Kanu
In a significant development, the Supreme Court has overturned a lower court’s judgment that dismissed terrorism charges against Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
The apex court determined that the trial court had the jurisdiction to proceed with Kanu’s case, despite the violation of his rights during the invasion of his residence.
Justice Garba Mohammed, who prepared the judgment, criticized the invasion of Kanu’s residence, deeming it irresponsible. He emphasized that despite the violation of a suspect’s rights, the trial court has the authority to continue proceedings, and the remedy for such violations should be pursued through civil proceedings.
“If the police should destroy the house of a suspect to obtain exhibits, should that diverse the court against entertaining the offence?” Justice Mohammed questioned, stating that the court of appeal was incorrect in its earlier decision.
The Supreme Court’s verdict declared, “The law must take its course. The Court of Appeal was wrong that the trial court couldn’t try him. The appeal is allowed, and the cross-appeal is dismissed.”
Nnamdi Kanu, initially arrested in 2015 under the administration of former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari, faced charges related to a treasonable felony, conspiracy, illegal importation of radio equipment, and defamation of former President Buhari. Despite being granted bail in 2017, Kanu fled the country after a military invasion of his home in Afara-Ukwu, Abia State, in September 2017.
Re-arrested in Kenya and brought back to Nigeria in June 2021, Kanu faced a fresh 14-count charge, reduced to seven, including charges of terrorism and membership in a proscribed group. The Court of Appeal in October 2022 dismissed the terrorism charges, citing violations of the country’s extradition treaty and Kanu’s fundamental human rights.
The federal government appealed this decision, obtaining a stay of execution order at the Supreme Court. Kanu, in turn, filed an appeal against the stay of execution, leading to the recent reversal of the charges’ dismissal by the Supreme Court. The ruling adds another layer to the legal saga surrounding Nnamdi Kanu and raises questions about the rule of law and human rights in Nigeria.
Supreme Court Reverses Terrorism Charges Dismissal for Nnamdi Kanu
Headlines
FRSC warns truck drivers against speeding, reckless driving
Mr Joshua Ibitomi, the Area Commander of Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC),
Ibeju-Lekki, Epe Division, Lagos State, has warned truck drivers against speeding and reckless driving.
He gave the warning in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Ibeju-Lekki on Tuesday.
The FRSC official, who blamed speeding on the ghastly vehicle accident that occurred at Aiyetoro market in Epe
which claimed several lives and left some injured, said that with careful driving, such accident could be avoided.
He added that “the accident was as a result of speeding, reckless driving and loading of truck beyond its capacity.
“All these are factors responsible for accident when drivers are not conscious of the driving rules.
“Vehicle can develop technical fault at any time, therefore, speed limit and caution need to be applied while driving.”
He said FRSC had been sensitising drivers on the need to install speed limit device and be road conscious while driving, in line with the mandate to instill decent use of road.
Ibitomi also advised passers-by and the public to be safety conscious while walking on roadsides to avoid falling victim of accidents.
He attributed major road crashes on roads to speed limit violation, urging drivers to respect the sanctity of human life by obeying traffic rules.
He added that the FRSC had evolved measures to ensure accident-free yuletide and new year festivities in 2024
Headlines
Trump Victory Sparks Celebration in Florida, Disappointment for Harris Supporters
Jubilant supporters celebrated Donald Trump’s apparent victory in Florida early Wednesday as he claimed a return to the White House, despite most major news networks holding off on officially calling the race.
At an event in Palm Beach, Trump supporters reveled in the win projected by Fox News, cheering as the former president declared a “political victory that our country has never seen before.”
“I feel extraordinary,” said 68-year-old supporter Ted Sarvanis, dancing with arms in the air. “This is the greatest American political story in the history of the country.”
Joined by running mate J.D. Vance, Trump took the stage, celebrating his projected win. The atmosphere at the convention center was electric, with supporters sporting “Make America Great Again” caps and mingling in formal attire and Trump-themed clothing.
“I feel relieved. I was a little bit scared because you never know how things are going to turn out,” said Stacy Kurtz, 45.
In contrast, a far different scene unfolded for Vice President Kamala Harris’s supporters at Howard University in Washington, where they were hoping for a Democratic win.
As the night wore on and Trump gained electoral votes in key battleground states, disappointment swept through the crowd.
“I am scared, I am anxious now,” said Charlyn Anderson earlier in the evening.
Democratic watch parties in places like Atlanta and Pennsylvania grew somber as results rolled in, with Lynn Johnson, 65, expressing concern, “It’s going to be dangerous if he wins. I don’t feel safe.”
While Trump’s supporters celebrated a comeback, the mood among Democrats was marked by worry and disbelief.
“He’s a terrible candidate, so it just doesn’t make sense,” said Harris supporter Ken Brown.
The contrasting scenes highlighted the nation’s deep political divide on election night.
Headlines
Tinubu Congratulates Trump on Historic Re-Election, Eyes Stronger U.S.-Nigeria Ties
President Bola Tinubu has extended warm congratulations to President Donald Trump on his re-election as the 47th President of the United States, expressing optimism for stronger ties between Nigeria and the U.S. in an era of global challenges.
The congratulatory message, issued by Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information & Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, emphasises the Nigerian leader’s hopes for a renewed partnership between the two nations.
Following his victory on Wednesday, Trump pledged to “heal” the country, marking a stunning political comeback as he edged past Kamala Harris in a closely contested election.
Tinubu, in his message, affirmed, “Together, we can foster economic cooperation, promote peace, and address global challenges that affect our citizens.”
Tinubu highlighted that Trump’s return to the White House reflects the trust and confidence of the American people in his leadership, praising their commitment to democracy.
Given Trump’s experience from 2017 to 2021 as the 45th President, Tinubu foresees a new era of “earnest, beneficial, and reciprocal economic and development partnerships between Africa and the United States.”
The Nigerian President also expressed confidence that Trump’s leadership will contribute to peace and prosperity worldwide, acknowledging America’s significant influence on global affairs.
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