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NRC Moves to Boost Passenger Capacity on Port Harcourt-Aba Rail Corridor

The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has announced plans to boost passenger capacity on the Port Harcourt-Aba rail corridor during the Yuletide season by refurbishing additional train vehicles.

Speaking to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Umuahia on Thursday, Mr. Onyedikachi Onovo, South-East Zonal Public Relations Officer, said the initiative aims to ease the usual holiday rush and reduce passenger overcrowding on the route.

“Already, two vehicles and a baggage van have arrived in Aba and are currently undergoing rehabilitation,” Onovo stated. “The vehicles will be attached to trains as soon as rehabilitations are completed. Our intention is to beat the usual Christmas rush.”

According to Onovo, the Port Harcourt-Aba train currently carries between 500 and 900 passengers per trip. With the additional vehicles, the train’s capacity will increase to about 1,000 passengers per trip, with a target of transporting no fewer than 2,000 passengers daily.


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He also expressed optimism about the completion of the Aba-Umuahia rail track, following assurances from the transport ministry.

The NRC’s proactive approach underscores its commitment to providing efficient rail services while alleviating the transportation challenges associated with the festive season.

Nigeria’s Largest Harbour Cranes Arrive Onne Port, Boosting Maritime Operations

The arrival of Nigeria’s two largest mobile harbor cranes at the Onne Multipurpose Terminal (OMT) in Rivers State has sparked excitement within the maritime sector. The cranes, imported from Germany, mark a $25 million investment by OMT, a subsidiary of International Container Terminal Services Inc. (ICTSI).

The newly commissioned cranes, stationed at the Federal Ocean Terminal (FOT), boast a container handling capacity of 25 TEUs per hour with an outreach of 20 containers across. Their deployment sets a new operational standard, enabling Nigeria’s ports to accommodate larger vessels and enhance cargo throughput.

Speaking during the commissioning, the Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, represented by Onne Port Manager Abdulrahman Hussain, commended OMT for its substantial investment.

“This is a big victory for the company, the NPA, and the Nigerian economy. The new cranes will drive increased business, revenue, and investment,” he stated.


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OMT Managing Director Jacob Gulmann described the investment as transformative. “These cranes are the largest in any Nigerian port and will enable larger vessels from our shipping partners, MSC and PIL, to dock at Onne,” he said, emphasizing OMT’s role in Nigeria’s maritime development.

He further acknowledged the supportive roles played by government agencies, Customs, shipping lines, and importers in ensuring seamless port operations.

Prominent stakeholders, including representatives from the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA), Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), and Pacific International Lines (PIL), hailed the investment as a critical step toward reducing vessel turnaround time and boosting economic growth.

C. C. Nwokorie, representing Customs Area II Controller Mohammed Babandede, lauded OMT for its proactive investments, stressing that the move benefits all Nigerians.

In addition to the cranes, OMT unveiled a state-of-the-art container freight station designed to streamline import and export logistics. The commissioning ceremony concluded with the symbolic tape-cutting by NPA’s representative, marking a significant leap toward positioning Nigeria as a leading maritime hub in West and Central Africa.

NYSC Director General Appeals for Support in Search for Missing Corps Member in Rivers State

The Director General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brigadier General YD Ahmed, has called for collective efforts to locate missing Corps Member Yahaya Farouk.

During a visit to Ikuru Town in Andoni Local Government Area of Rivers State, where the missing Corps Member was last seen, General Ahmed appealed to the community’s youths and elders to collaborate with security agencies in the search.

He emphasized his administration’s commitment to ensuring the safety and welfare of Corps Members. General Ahmed also reminded host communities of their responsibility to safeguard Corps Members and provide necessary support during their service.


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“The essence of my coming is to appeal to assist us in getting the Corps Member who came for National Service from another State,” he said during the visit.

The Director General also visited the site of the incident involving the missing Corps Member.

Responding to the appeal, the community’s Youth President, Mr. Etete Jerb Anthony, and Ward Secretary, Mr. Paul Friday, stated that the community has made significant efforts to locate Yahaya Farouk, who disappeared while working at a Chinese mining company in the area. They assured that search and rescue operations are ongoing.

RSU SUG President In Hot Soup For Embezzlement

Rivers State University Student Union Government (SUG) is embroiled in a financial scandal. Its President, Comr. Omubo-Pepple Abinye, and Secretary, Comr. Ihunwo Manuchimso Donald, face serious allegations of embezzlement and financial mismanagement. The scandal, which involves over ₦15 million, has ignited outrage among students and stakeholders, with the Students’ Representative Council (SRC) calling for decisive action.

The SRC, exercising its constitutional responsibility, initiated an investigation into the financial dealings of the SUG leadership. Key findings from the investigation include:

  1. Unauthorized Withdrawals: The President and Secretary allegedly made unauthorized withdrawals amounting to over ₦9 million from the union’s account. This discrepancy surfaced when the account lacked sufficient funds to cover the inauguration ceremony and severance allowances.

  2. Embezzlement: The President was accused of diverting ₦2 million allocated for the hostel D solar water borehole project.

  3. Additional Misappropriation of ₦4.5 Million: The President, in collaboration with the Secretary and Director of Socials, Comr. Hope Bariyira Mgboalu, allegedly embezzled an additional ₦4.5 million and granted unauthorized access to Samsung Company representatives.

  4. Fabrication of Documents: The President reportedly submitted falsified documents during the investigation process to mislead the SRC.

Despite the gravity of these allegations, the university administration decided to halt the impeachment process, citing the need for peace and a smooth leadership transition. The administration also mandated the President to refund ₦2 million to the union’s account, a resolution that the SRC initially accepted in good faith.

However, the SRC and other union members have since expressed frustration over the administration’s leniency, especially following revelations of the additional ₦9 million withdrawals. In response, the SRC has resolved:

  • That no SUG official, irrespective of their position, should be immune from accountability when found guilty of misconduct.
  • To delay the inauguration and handover ceremony until the accused officers are brought to justice.
  • To involve financial crime authorities to recover the looted funds and prevent future occurrences.

This unfolding scandal highlights systemic issues in the management of student union funds, raising concerns about transparency and accountability in student governance. Many students have called for stricter oversight mechanisms and independent audits of union accounts to restore trust.

The bold stance of the SRC sends a strong message to current and future student leaders about the importance of ethical leadership. As the case progresses, all eyes will be on the university administration and law enforcement agencies to ensure justice is served.

The Rivers State University SUG financial scandal is a clarion call for reform in how student unions operate. Students are demanding accountability not just from their leaders but also from the university management tasked with supervising union activities. Moving forward, the introduction of clear financial guidelines and regular audits could be key steps toward preventing such crises.

This scandal serves as a reminder that leadership, whether at the student or national level, must always prioritize service over personal gain. The resolution of this case will likely set a precedent for student governance across Nigerian universities.

⁩ Shallipopi Speaks Out Against Exploitation In Music Industry

Crown Uzama, widely recognized as Shallipopi, has taken a bold stand in the Nigerian music industry, severing ties with Dapper Music and Dvpper Digital. His decision, announced on his X (formerly Twitter) account on Wednesday, sheds light on pervasive issues in the industry—financial mismanagement, lack of transparency, and exploitative contracts.

In a deeply personal statement titled “A Message from Shallipopi: Standing Up for Artists and Creators Everywhere,” Shallipopi revealed the emotional toll of his decision. “I come to you today with a heavy heart but an unshakable determination,” he began, exposing the injustices he faced. He accused Dapper Music of coercing him into an exploitative deal with Dvpper Digital Limited—both allegedly controlled by the same entity. This arrangement, he claimed, prioritized corporate profit over his growth as an artist.

The artist alleged that funds advanced under his name and music catalog were mismanaged, leaving him in financial turmoil. The debt from these dealings has reportedly ballooned to an as-yet-uncertain amount. Adding to the frustration, Shallipopi lamented being denied access to clear financial records of his earnings, despite multiple requests. “I’ve worked hard, and like anyone, I deserve to know where my money is going,” he said.

Shallipopi’s revelations resonate with the struggles of many young Nigerian artists who are often trapped in exploitative contracts. These agreements can stifle creativity and limit financial independence. His decision to terminate his agreements sends a strong message, calling for greater fairness, transparency, and respect for artists’ rights.

In a swift rebuttal, Dapper Music denied the accusations of mismanagement. The label, owned by Damilola Akinwunmi, emphasized that its agreements are transparent and provide room for legal representation. Addressing Shallipopi’s claims, the label clarified that his contract had been renegotiated in October 2024 with full legal backing, dismissing allegations of a “forever deal.”

The company also refuted accusations of mishandling funds, stating that the 30% management fee was standard and agreed upon by all parties. They labeled the accusations as “premeditated and false” and urged disputes to be resolved through legal channels.

Shallipopi’s stand is more than a personal fight; it is a rallying cry for structural reform in the Nigerian music industry. His story underscores the need for contracts that prioritize artists’ welfare over corporate gain. As his fans rally in support, Shallipopi’s resilience and courage have sparked important conversations about the rights and treatment of creators.

For Shallipopi, this marks the beginning of a new chapter—one defined by self-determination and advocacy. As the saga unfolds, the industry will watch closely, with hopes that his actions inspire reforms and pave the way for a more equitable environment for Nigerian artists.

This unfolding drama not only highlights the challenges within the entertainment industry but also serves as a reminder of the power of artists to demand accountability. Shallipopi’s journey, though fraught with obstacles, is a beacon of hope for creators navigating similar struggles.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Fubara To Boost Agriculture, Economic Activities In Etche LGA

The Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has acknowledged the food basket status of Etche land, and expressed the determination of his administration to boost agricultural activities in the area as agriculture tool to fight hunger and guarantee food sufficiency.

The Governor also said that the reconstruction of the Egwi-Afara-Mba Road is preparatory to the planned effort to increase commercial Agriculture in Etche land.


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Governor Fubara gave the assurance at the official flag-off of the 12.3 Kilometres Egwi-Afara-Mba Road project in Etche Local Government Area on Wednesday.

Governor Fubara stated that the gesture of the road construction, in part, is to express his gratitude to Etche people for their support and firm belief in him and his administration, adding: “Thank you for believing in us, and thank you for still standing with us. Our thank you will not be limited to the construction of roads alone. Our thank you will still extend to the development of your people: manpower development.

“This is because, if we finish (complete) the road project, and we don’t have the right manpower, the rightful employment opportunities and proper engagement of our youths, the road will still be useless. So, we are not going to limit it to just the road, but we will bring agricultural development to Etche, knowing fully well that Etche is the food basket of the State.

“So, what have come to do this afternoon is to do the preparation. This road is part of what we are going to use to transport those Agricultural produce that we are going to generate here.”

Governor Fubara urged the people to give the contractor all the necessary support to ensure that the project is achieved within six months, explaining that, should there be need to extend the completion timeline of six months, it should be because the road has been stretched beyond its current length to link Etche to Imo State as already requested by Ochie of Etche Ethnic Nationality, His Eminence, Eze E. M. B. Opurum.

He said, “So, I hereby direct the Hon Commissioner for Works to extend this project as requested by the Etche people. I am also aware that, once a good thing is about coming, there will be sabotage. You don’t need to fall into that trap. At the end of the day, this project belongs to the Etche people. It doesn’t belong to Fubara.

“I am not doing it with my money. It will be wrong to say I am doing it. The Rivers State Government, under my administration, is executing this project. So, it is not about me, it is about the people that we are serving. It is about the legacy we are leaving behind, and it is about the people that we are going to make happy when we leave the office.”

Governor Fubara explained that the policy of his administration is not to glorify in mere flag-off ceremonies but to ensure that the projects are executed, completed, inaugurated, and actually put to use, noting the importance of the road and significant benefits it affords all Etche sons and daughters, including those opposed to his administration.

Governor Fubara said: “This road will cut across and even in front of the houses of those who want to kill us. But this will be to tell them that the things that others couldn’t do for them, we are not looking at their faces but doing it. What we are doing is for the people of Etche”.

Flagging-off the project, former Governor of Rivers State, Sir Celestine Omehia, expressed delight for being the person to make history by laying the foundation stone for such infrastructure development in rural communities.

He asserted: “Etche is the cassava belt of Nigeria. The highest quantity of cassava produced in Etche and Ikwerre put together can feed Nigeria as long as it can. Your Excellency, one other thing that we can understand is that even the palm trees planted in the area by SIAT Nigeria Limited (formerly Risonpalm Company) are also important to the economic growth and development of Nigeria.”

It is for these reasons, he noted, that the Egwi-Afara-Mba Road project, is of immense economic importance, not only to the Etche people but to Nigeria in general.

He pointed to the fact that Rivers State is the most respected state because of the economic lifeline that it provides Nigeria, lamenting that it is disheartening to imagine that Rivers sons, in the guise of politics, will demarket the State and destroy its economic strength.

He added, “Many Rivers children who are outside the State are trying to bring Rivers State down. If you demarket your own State, no person will respect your State. There are many people outside Rivers State that are trying to demarket the State. Two, three years ago, Your Excellency, some leaders of the State were saying that Ministers from Rivers State must bring projects to the State. Today, we are asking questions.

“When Rotimi Amaechi was the Minister, people were asking questions to say: what are the projects you have brought? Today, we are asking the same question: how many projects have you brought into Etche? How many projects have we received in Ikwerre Local Government? How many projects have we received in Ikwerre Ethnic Nationality? We are waiting.”

Providing the project description, the State Commissioner for Works, Barrister Elloka Tasie-Amadi, said the Egwi-Afara-Mba Road project is scheduled for completion in nine months, clarifying that his ministry is doing its best by pressuring the contractor to take advantage of the clement weather and deliver the project in six months.

He said, “This road starts from Egwi; passes through Afara; and terminates at Mba in Etche Local Government Area. The road is 12.3 kilometres. We have 9,000 meters of drainage in the populated areas, and the road is 10.3 meters wide, 7.3 of the width is a carriageway, and 3 meters is the shoulder, 1.5 meters on the either side of the road”.

In his welcome address, Executive Chairman of Etche Local Government Area, Mr Uzodinma Nwafor, thanked Governor Fubara for being in Etche land thrice in two weeks to inaugurate, flag-off projects, and also attend Etche first festival of food, culture and art, and assured the total support of the people to the present administration.

On his part, Area Manager of Setraco Nigeria Ltd, the firm handling the project, Engr Michael Issa, said the road project is a vital infrastructure that is 12km long with 100meters connecting roads, accompanied by 8.8km of drainage systems, emphasising their delight and honour in being trusted to play a role in actualising it, just as he pledged to deliver quality road that will last a long time.

Excitement Trails Completion Of 6.55km Okania-Ogbogoro-Mgbaraja Roads Project In Rivers

The Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has reiterated the commitment of his administration to render quality service that will improve the quality of life of residents, and strengthen the platform to promote unity.

Governor Fubara gave the assurance at the Okania-Ogbogoro Road junction, venue of the inauguration of the 6.55km Okania-Ogbogoro-Mgbaraja (and Mgbuoba) Roads project in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area on Thursday.


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The road cuts across Okania community through Ogbogoro, and connects Port Harcourt Ring Road project under construction, and was inaugurated by the Taraba State Governor, Dr Agbu Kefas.

Governor Fubara said that during the campaigns, he saw the roads in terrible condition, made a promise to fix them, and noted that that promise has been kept.

He emphasised that his administration will never be reckoned with abandoning of projects that it started, which is why he is particularly excited that the road has been fixed to ease the inconveniences suffered by the people.

The Governor said, “What we are doing here today is very simple: Promise made, promise fulfilled. I told you that whatever we are going to start, we are not going to leave it halfway. So, we have come here this afternoon to fulfil that promise.

“I am so excited, and I am so happy. I am leaving here with so much joy that we have done something that has so much impact, and importance in the lives of our people. So, I feel very fulfilled. Government is about the people. Government is knowing, understanding and seeing what you can do to make life easy for your people.

“We understand the situation of this road. Fortunately, I have a few friends who also live around here. So, there is nothing you will say that I don’t know. As a government, we will continue to do those things we know will make life easy for you.”

The Governor thanked members of the communities in the area for their support to his administration, and also for cooperating with the contractor to ensure completion of the project.

He assured the people that their request for the rehabilitation of the Community Secondary School and Health Centre, will be looked at and addressed immediately, saying, “Our government is a government that takes the interest of our people very seriously.

“There is no government without the people. It is only the people that keep the government going. So, what we will continue to do is to make sure that the problems and interest of our people are top on our list,” he assured.

Performing the inauguration, Taraba State Governor, Dr Agbu Kefas, said roads are not just physical infrastructure but represent a commitment to facilitate ease of transportation, boost local commercial activities and improve quality of lives for the people of Rivers State.

Dr Kefas noted that Governor Fubara has provided the people good roads, and like other good roads, it will serve as an artery of development, further connecting communities, enhancing access to essential services while unlocking economic potentials.

He said, “By completing this project, Your Excellency has, once again, demonstrated the transformative impact of visionary leadership. When I was coming in with the Governor on a ride, I saw the joy, the happiness of the voiceless people who were abandoned and neglected in this area, coming out to wave and welcome us.

“It wasn’t a hired crowd. Everybody, those who couldn’t make it to this place, in front of their homes, they were waving at us, and I was telling the Governor: this is all about good governance. He listened to the people, and solved their problems. So, it shows that he is doing the right thing, and I want to thank you, my brother, for what you are doing for the good people, especially the poor people even in difficult times.”

Governor Kefas further said: “As we celebrate this milestone, I am reminded of the importance of collaboration and shared vision among us as Governors. Together, we can inspire our people, improve their lives, and create lasting legacies in our respective states.”

Providing the project description, the State Commissioner for Works, Barrister Elloka Tasie-Amadi, recalled that when it was flagged-off in May, 2024, the project was for a 5km stretch but was extended in October, to include Mgbaraja axis, increasing the length to 6.55km, explaining that the 10.3 meter wide, and 5km of drains road, has now linked Apara Kingdom to Nkpor Kingdom.

In his address, Chairman of Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Amb Chijioke Ihunwo, described the road as a very significant route that was abandoned for years until Governor Fubara intervened and fixed it, promising that Obio/Akpor people will not take the gestures of the State Government under Governor Fubara for granted.

Speaking on behalf of China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), the firm that handled the project, Eric Shen, said they are happy to be part of the infrastructure development strides of Governor Fubara, stating that though the rains posed significant challenge, they have delivered quality road network to serve the connectivity needs of the people.

Rivers United To Face Kwara United

Rivers United has moved on from its ruins to face Kwara United in a Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) matchday 17 fixture. Remember that Rivers United lost to Enugu Rangers.

Enugu Rangers secured the thrilling 1-0 victory over Rivers United in their highly anticipated Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) Round 16 match. The win had significant implications for the league standings, as Rivers United relinquished their top spot to Remo Stars. Rangers’ resilience and strategy paid off, as Collins Ugwueze scored the winning goal in the 16th minute, securing all three points for the hosts.

The great match lived up to its billing, with both teams displaying their skills and determination. Despite their impressive form this season, Rivers United further struggled to find their rhythm against Rangers’ resolute defense. The visitors were unable to breach the hosts’ defensive line, despite having scored three goals in their last five matches in the Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL).


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The Rangers of Enugu’s solid defensive strategy has been a hallmark of their success this season. With this narrow victory, the Rangers continue to push for a strong finish in the NPFL season, demonstrating their potential to challenge for the title. The win marks a significant milestone for the Rangers, as they seek to build momentum and climb the league standings.

As a result of the win, Enugu Rangers moved to the third spot with 27 points, while Rivers United slid to the second spot with 29 points, allowing Remo Stars to take the top spot. With the season unfolding, Rangers will be looking to maintain their winning form and make a strong case for themselves as title contenders.

This Sunday,  Rivers United Will battle for the summit of the league by attempting to beat Kwara United on Sunday 15th December 2024 at the Adokiye Amiesimaka stadium.

NDDC Promises Completion of Major Projects in Rivers State

The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) is making significant progress on key infrastructure projects aimed at improving connectivity and economic activity in the region. The Managing Director of the NDDC, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, has reassured stakeholders of the commission’s commitment to completing the 2-kilometer double-lane Kaa-Ataba road with two bridges in Rivers State’s Khana and Andoni Local Government Areas.

During an inspection of a 1.2-kilometre-long bridge on the project site, Dr. Ogbuku, accompanied by NDDC Executive Director of Projects, Victor Antai, and other senior officials, provided updates on the construction’s progress. In a statement issued in Port Harcourt by Seledi Thompson-Wakama, NDDC’s Director of Corporate Affairs, Ogbuku stated:

“The project is about 70 percent done, and we are ready to complete it by the middle of next year. We have just finished discussing it with the on-site contractors and even assuring the traditional ruler that we are back already. The contractor is back on site and working to ensure we finish this project by mid-next year.

“As you can see, this bridge is one of the longest bridges in this country, after the Third Mainland Bridge and the Second Niger Bridge. This is about 1.2 kilometers long, and you can see it is very long. It is an ambitious project by the NDDC. We want to complete it for the benefit of the people of the Niger Delta because once this bridge is completed, it will be linked to Ataba and also the Bony Island too.”

Highlighting the bridge’s strategic importance, Ogbuku explained that it would provide multiple gateways to Bony Island, complementing the existing Bony-Bodo expressway. He added that work on casting the bridge beams was underway, signaling the contractor’s readiness to push the project to completion.


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The paramount ruler of Ataba Kingdom in Andoni Local Government Area, King Benson Uruk, expressed delight at the NDDC’s renewed commitment to the project, saying:

“We had almost lost hope on this project. We prayed for it to be completed. Seeing the NDDC here today has brought us joy.

“We are joyful because this project is so dear to our hearts. Most of the communities in Andoni are motorable except the Ataba community. Completing this project would be a big relief for economic and social activities. It will improve the lives of the Ataba people.

“We, the people of Ataba, are very peaceful and cooperative. We assure the NDDC that we will not disrupt the project as it goes on.

“This is a vital project that links Akwa Ibom State and Abia State. Though awarded in 2012, we inspected and saw the project’s status. About 15km of this project is done, and we are already conversing with the contractor about when they will return to the site. We are committed to reviewing the scope of the road and completing it in no distant time,” Ogbuku stated.

He added that the road’s completion would create a shorter route for travelers between Rivers and Akwa Ibom states, bypassing the East-West Road, and also evaluated the emergency reconstruction of the 5.5-kilometer Oyigbo road network, covering several communities in the Oyigbo Local Government Area.

Rivers Police Arraign 2 for Alleged False Information on Motorcycle Rider’s Killing in Ahoada

By Tina Amanda

 

 

The State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) of the Rivers State Police Command on Wednesday, November 11, 2024, arraigned two individuals, Menwe Nnamdi James (38) and Ekele Okorogba (40), before a Magistrate Court in Port Harcourt.

The arraignment, presided over by Senior Magistrate Wobia C. Akani involved two counts of providing false information to the police regarding the murder of Godstime Innocent, a motorcycle rider, in Ahoada on November 17, 2024.

The defendants were accused of falsely implicating Hector Ekeakita Chinem, Public Relations Officer of the Igbu-Akoh Youth Congress, Ahoada East Local Government Area, in the murder.


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Charges Against the Defendants: Count 1 (Suit No. PMC/1531C/2024), the charge stated that on November 17, 2024, in Ahoada main town, the defendants conspired to provide false information to the police, an act punishable under Section 516A of the Criminal Code CAP 37 Vol. II, Laws of Rivers State of Nigeria, 1999.

Count 2 The defendants allegedly gave false information to the police with the intent to cause injury and annoyance to Hector Ekeakita Chinem, leading to his arrest and detention. The offense is punishable under Section 125A (1)(b) of the Criminal Code CAP 37 Vol. II, Laws of Rivers State.

Both defendants pleaded not guilty to the charges.

Senior Magistrate Akani granted the defendants bail, with one surety each in the sum of ₦500,000. The sureties must provide verifiable means of livelihood and a traceable address.

The case was adjourned to January 21, 2025, for a hearing.

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