News

Benue: We are facing far more sinister motives than farmer herder clashes – Tor Tiv

Published

1 month ago

June 18, 2025

The paramount ruler of the Tiv Nation, Tor Tiv V, His Royal Majesty James Ayatse, has refuted claims that the ongoing killings in Benue State are a result of farmer-herder clashes.

He described such narratives as blatant misinformation that misrepresents the true nature of the crisis.

Speaking on Wednesday during a meeting between President Bola Tinubu and key stakeholders in Benue, the Tor Tiv expressed deep concern over how this mischaracterization has influenced national discourse and policy direction.

“We have serious concerns about the misinformation surrounding the security situation in Benue State,” Ayatse said.

“Your Excellency, this is not about herders and farmers clashing. It is not communal conflict, and it is certainly not a case of isolated reprisal attacks.”

The monarch lamented that these false narratives have led to calls for tolerance and cohabitation, suggesting that Benue people simply need to “negotiate for peace” and “learn to live with their neighbours.”

“But what we are facing here is far more sinister,” he declared.

“This is a calculated, well-coordinated, full-scale genocidal invasion and land-grabbing campaign executed by terrorist herders and armed bandits. It has been ongoing for decades, worsening with each passing year.”

Ayatse warned that a false diagnosis of the crisis would only continue to result in ineffective and misplaced responses.

“Wrong diagnosis leads to wrong treatment. We are not dealing with a misunderstanding between neighbours, we are confronting a war,” he added.

News

Constitutional review: Nigeria needs inclusive, restructured economy – Otti

Published

2 hours ago

July 20, 2025

Ekwutos Blog

Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has called for a practical and people-focused approach to constitutional reforms in Nigeria, emphasizing the need for inclusivity, economic restructuring to achieve national unity.

Speaking at the South East zonal public hearing on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on Saturday, Governor Otti stressed that the Nigerian constitution must evolve with the dynamic aspirations of the citizens.

Represented by his Deputy, Ikechuckwu Emetu, Governor Otti highlighted the importance of inclusivity in governance, citing Abia State’s approach to resource allocation and decision-making as a model.

He noted that the legitimacy of a constitution in a pluralistic society like Nigeria depends on the contributions of all ethnic, religious, and cultural groups.
and expressed reservations about creating of new States, citing enormous cost implications and potential expansion of bureaucracy.

Speaking further, the Abia Governor supported the creation of State Police, but emphasized the need for clear standards for leadership, coordination, recruitment, accountability, and human rights protection when created.

He cautioned on full local government autonomy, warning of increased financial and bureaucratic burdens and
advocated for constitutional recognition of free and compulsory basic education, emphasizing the need for increased financing and quality delivery.

Governor Otti also cited Abia State’s recent electricity reforms as a case study in the positive impact of constitutional changes. .

Following amendments that allowed sub- national entities to participate in the electricity sector, he said Abia established the Abia State Electricity Regulatory Agency (ASERA) and received regulatory oversight from the national commission (NERC) which he said has empowered Abia to take control of its energy future.

In his speech, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, described the hearings as “a national conversation” that must produce a constitution that reflects the hopes and values of all Nigerians.

News

A 93-year-old man has shared his secret to a long and healthy life: quitting beer.

Published

13 hours ago

July 19, 2025

Ekwutos Blog

In an inspiring revelation, he disclosed that he stopped drinking beer in 1975, a decision that has not only improved his health but also helped him save a significant amount of money.

According to the man’s account, abstaining from beer has had numerous health benefits. Research supports this claim, highlighting that quitting alcohol can.

Improve Heart Health: Lower blood pressure, reduce triglycerides, and decrease the risk of heart failure
Enhance Liver Function : Allow the liver to heal and function normally, reducing the risk of liver disease

Boost Mental Clarity: Improve memory, nervous system function, and overall mental well-being

Promote Weight Loss : Reduce calorie intake and support a balanced diet and exercise

Reduce Cancer Risk : Lower the risk of certain types of cancer, including liver, throat, and stomach cancer

The man advises young people to avoid habits and diets that pose health risks, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing one’s well-being. His story serves as a testament to the benefits of making healthy lifestyle choices.

– Quitting beer can lead to significant health improvements
– Abstaining from alcohol can reduce the risk of chronic diseases
– Healthy habits can contribute to a long and fulfilling life

News

Alleged $6b Mambilla Project Fraud: Court Admits more Evidence against Agunloye

Published

16 hours ago

July 19, 2025

Ekwutos Blog

Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie of the Federal High Court, sitting in Apo, Abuja, on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, admitted additional evidence from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, against a former Minister of Power and Steel, Olu Agunloye.

Agunloye is facing prosecution by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC on seven-count charges, bordering on official corruption and fraudulent award of Mambilla Power Project contract to the tune of $6billion (Six Billion US Dollars).

The additional evidence are an investigation report of the Mambila HydroElectric Power Project, the defendant awarded to Sunrise Power &Transmission Company Limited and a warrant of arrest on Jide Sotinri. They were marked “Exhibit EFCC R and S.”

During the day’s proceedings, Agunloye through his counsel, Adeola Adedikpe, SAN informed the court of his application for the release of his passport to enable him travel abroad for medical evaluation.

Responding to the application, prosecution counsel, M.K Hussain asked the court for more time to enable him study the application and file his reply.

The judge adjourned till Thursday, July 17, 2025 for the the hearing of the overseas medical trip application.