HOUSE C'TTEE SCORES ADAMAWA BASED CONSTRUCTION COMPANY HIGH ON QUALITY ROAD

Impressed by the quality of work being executed on Muchalla-Ribawo rural road in Mubi North Local Government Area in Adamawa State, the State House of Assembly Standing Committee on Rural Infrastructure and Community Development has scored Gongola and Group of Company high in the rehabilitation of rural feeder roads in the state.

According to the Committee, out of all the rural roads being rehabilitated by the Rural Access and Mobility Projects (RAMP II) visited so far, Muchalla -Ribawo road being handled by G and G topped the best in terms of quality job.

The Chairman of the Committee and Member representing Ganye Constituency, Hon. Alhassan Hammanjoda, stated this while leading members of the Committee including: Hon. Abdullahi Umar Yapak (Verre), Hon. Japheth Kefas(Gombi) and Hon. Shuaibu Babas(Fufore/Gurin) and Alh. Audi Buba, Secretary of the Committee on the inspection tour Thursday.

Hon. Alhassan said that his Committee has inspected so many rural roads being executed by RAPM II through foreign and indigenous contractors across the state, but asserted that Muchalla -Ribawo road is one of the best road they came across in the course of their oversight.

According to the lawmaker, the company has performed creditably well with a view to ensuring that the people of the area enjoy quality job, saying the fact that the company has performed just 40 to 45 percent, the work it has done is up to standard.

He appealed to the state government to consider engaging such indigenous construction companies in all the construction work it intends to embark upon, describing G and G Group as a company that is out to execute quality job for the citizens.

In his remarks, a Member of the Committee and Member representing Verre constituency, Hon. Abdullahi Umar Yapak, called on the world bank to pass a vote of confidence on such construction companies, saying that they came, they saw and that was the reason why he was saying so.

He appealed to the Committee and the House of Assembly in general to influence for the award of the remaining 55 kilometer road project to G and G Company for their constituents to continue enjoying good job.

Responding, the Contractor, Chief Adams Gongola appreciated God for the Committee, saying that his company has been working tirelessly so that he will not be disappointed.

Chief Gongola assured the Committee that anytime the Members will be visiting the site, they will see much more than what he has done now, pointing out that his company will not relent in doing its best so as to continue to attract patronage.

He informed the Legislators that he has been engaging the services of the indigenes in the construction work as way of making them to benefit from it.

Meanwhile, the House Committee has also inspected Konan Yaji- Mijiwana- Giltambara- Amdur road in Gombi LGA and Hong - Mijili - Kuvagaya and Wuro Bokki -Uding- Pella roads in Hong LGA being handled by Tec Engineering Company Nigeria Limited.

Speaking while at site in Gombi LGA, the Member of the Committee, Hon. Japheth Kefas( Gombi Constituency) expressed disappointment with the work done so far on the road.

Hon. Japheth Kefas said that he is not satisfied with the work because the company handling the project has been given certain amount of money to mobilise to site for about 90 days ago, and lamented that he only mobilised to site few days ago which means it has failed to abide by the terms of agreement.

He observed that the contractor must start with the construction of culverts and not putting the laterite, saying that by April, rainy season will commence and at that time, they cannot be able to construct culverts because of rain.

As a matter of urgency, he called on the company to embark on the construction of culverts before rainy season sets in and thanked his colleagues for the visit.

Also speaking, the executive Chairman Gombi LGC, Eng. Dimas Shekel appreciated Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri for choosing his LGA and his ward in particular to benefit from the projects, saying his people are disappointed in the construction company because of the way the company is handling the project.

Speaking while in Hong LGA, the Chairman of the House Committee, Hon. Alhassan Hammanjoda (Ganye) disclosed that the contractor has achieved 20 to 25 percent only and called on the it to redouble its effort to complete the work as agreed.

Baring his mind, Hon. Wesley Bathiya (Hong constituency) thanked Governor Fintiri for the project and the Committee Members for visiting his constituency, saying that the work carried out in his constituency is not up to standard.

On his part, the executive Chairman Hong LGC, James Pukuma posited that the rehabilitation of the rural roads will go along way in boosting the economy of his LGA, and expressed his delight for the visit.

GOV FINTIRI, WORLD BANK RECEIVE ADHA'S COMMENDATION OVER RAMP II PROJECTS

Adamawa State Government and the World Bank have received pat on the back for embarking on the rehabilitation of rural feeder roads in and around the state.

The State Government and the World Bank through Rural Access and Mobility Projects (RAMP II) have commenced the rehabilitation of rural roads in the state so as to ease mobility, connect and open up the rural roads for socio economic development.

The House of Assembly Standing Committee on Infrastructure and Community Development of the State House of Assembly made the commendation during an on the spot assessment of Parda- Muninga and  and Yolde Pate- Yadim roads in Fufore Local Government Area.

The Member of the Committee, Hon. Japheth Kefas (Gombi Constituency) commended the Construction Company for adhering to the contract agreement, saying that the Contractor has tried his best in the construction work.

Hon. Kefas thanked the State Government and the World bank for establishing RAMPII, explaining that the rehabilitation of rural roads is part of their campaign promises to delivering dividends of democracy to the people at the grassroot.

He urged the Contractor to expedite effort so as to complete the construction work within the specified period of time in order to ease the movement of goods and services.

In his remarks, the Member Representing Verre Constituency, Hon. Abdullahi Umar Yapak said that Yolde Pate-Yadim is one of the roads that link his constituency with the State capital and thanked the government for awarding contract for the rehabilitation of the road.

Hon. Yapak stated that he is happy that the rehabilitation of the road has become a reality and called on the benefiting communities to corporate with the company for the progress of the work.

On his part, Hon. Shuaibu Babas (Fufore Gurin) thanked the World Bank and State Government for awarding the rehabilitation of roads in his constituency and urged the Chairman Fufore LGC to supervise the work.

Baring their minds, the All Progressives Congress (APC) Fufore LGA, James Beka and former Administrator Yadim State Development Area, Alhaji Hamma Adama Ahijo appreciated the State Government and the World Bank for the effort.

ADAMAWA GOVT STEPS DOWN ILLEGAL RECRUITMENT OF CIVIL SERVANTS BY BINDOW

The controversy surrounding the purported illegal recruitment of thousands of civil servants by the past Governor Muhammad Umar Jibrilla's led administration in Adamawa State has finally been laid to rest as the State Government has stepped down all processes inherent in the recruitment.

Likewise, the State Government has approved the payment of #150million as state counterpart funding for European Union project on small towns component of water supply in Fufore and Mubi South.

The termination of the appointment of civil servants followed the approval of the White-Paper Report of the Committee on Regularization of Appointments and Transfer of Service in Adamawa State Civil Service from September 2018, to May 2019.

Briefing newsmen shortly after the State Executive Council's meeting presided by Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri Wednesday, the Commissioner Ministry of Information and Strategy, Dr. Umar Garba said that the stepdown of the affected civil servants followed the approval of the white paper and advised those affected to seek for fresh employment.

Dr. Garba told newsmen that the termination of the appointment was a good thing to be done considering irregularities that characterised the said employment and pledged that government will give equal and fair treatment in subsequent employment to all citizens.

On the #150 million counterpart funding approved by the Exco, the Commissioner added that the project in Fufore will cover drilling of boreholes in Gurin, Dasin Hausa, Wuro Bokki, Malabu and Fufore town while that of Mubi South will cover projects of rehabilitation of Mubi Water Treatment Plant and drilling of boreholes in Gude and Gyela.

He further stated that Council had also approved a reform in the entire Ministry of Transport and its mandates and that the council has also agreed that its Law be amended to serve the purpose of the ministry.

TWO KIDNAPPERS TO BE ARRAIGNED BEFORE A YOLA HIGH COURT TODAY

Two suspected kidnappers are to be arraigned before a Yola High Court in Adamawa state today.

The suspects, Mohammed Abubakar and Mohammed Goni, who were apprehended in Girei and Song Local Government Areas of the state respectively, are expected to appear before High Court of Justice presided by Hon. Justice Abdul-Aziz Waziri today.

One of the suspect, Mohammed Abubakar hail from Madugu in Girei LGA will be charged to Court for alleged kidnapping contrary to section 248(9) of the Adamawa State Penal Code Law, 2018, and punishable under section 248(b) of the same Code.

The commencement of trial of the defendant is in pursuant to section 111(b) of the Adamawa state Administration of Criminal Justice Law.

According to First Information Report, the suspect and 2 others at large, while armed with guns on 18th May, 2019, unlawfully kidnapped and held for ransom one Abiola Dubagari of Bajam in Girei LGA and in the course of which they shot and killed, Dubagari, the father of the victim.

Equally, on 16th June, 2019, at Sangere FUTY, in Girei LGA, the suspect with 2 others now at large while armed with guns, carried away and held for ransom, one Caleb Francis.

In his confessional statement, the suspect said on the 18th May, 2019, he advised one of their gang members to go down to Bajam village, a Yungur community in Girei LGA to kidnap Abiola who had a car, saying that they also called other gang member and went to the village together.

He narrated that while armed with guns, they arrived the village in the night and that himself and one other entered the young man's house, while one other was left outside to man the gate, saying that they picked the young man, covered his face and left to the bush.

He added that while taking their victim to the bush, they heard a gun shot, but when they later saw one of their men who was asked to man the gate, they asked him about the gun shot, and he told them that he shot and killed Dubagari, the father of Abiola, whom they abducted.

Mohammed said they later asked Abiola to give them the sum of #100,000, but he (Abiola) told them that he did not have the money.

He stated that they later told their victim to go and bury his father on condition that he will bring the money the next day immediately after the burial.

He said that after Abiola committed his father to the mother earth, he brought #40,000, on that fateful day, explaining that they collected they money and warned him to ensure the completion of the remaining balance which he did at later date.

While on his part, the other suspect, Mohammed Goni of Sabin Pegi GRA Song, in Song LGA will be prosecuted for false representation as a kidnapper or abducted person contrary and punishable under section 252(2) of Adamawa state Penal Law.

NEWS PLATFORM gathered that in September 2019, at Sigire, a village along Song-Gombi road, the suspect under false pretence, represented himself as a kidnapped person for the purpose of extorting money from Alh. Husseini Garba, his boss.

He narrated that in September last year, he (the suspect) left his house and later called his wife and told her to notify his boss that he (the suspect) had been kidnapped and his abductors were demanding money from him to secure his release.

Goni disclosed that when he released himself and came back home the following morning, he told sympathizers that his abductors released him on condition that he will be given them the sum of #150,000, to add to the little he had given them, or else the said kidnappers will come after him again.

According to him, his sympathisers contributed the sum of #50,000 to add to the little he had, saying that a month after, he bought a new sim card, changed his voice, called his boss and demanded the sum of #100,000 from him.

He pointed out that he directed his boss to go and give the money to his son ie the suspect's son, and his boss did as he(Goni) commanded, saying when he collected the money from his biological son, he used it and repaired his car.

Goni narrated that 3 months later, his 5 year old son, Abubakar Goni felt sick and when he took him to the hospital in Song, the doctor told him that his son needed blood and he was without a dime.

According to him, he decided to call one Igbo man, Innocent Nkapuchire, where he told him that he was kidnapper and asked him to give him #500,000, or else he will be kidnapped, so as to get money that he will use to purchase blood and treat his son.

He revealed that the Igbo man told him that he had #10,000 only but he (Goni) later called him and told him to add #10,000 so as to make it #20,000.

He pointed out that when Innocent agreed, he asked him to bring the money to TC Song, but he refused and said except if he( suspect) will come to his workshop and collect the money.

Mohammed Goni said that when he came and collected the money at the workshop, on his way back, he was apprehended by local hunters and handed over to the Nigerian Army who brought him to CID, Yola.

ADHA COMMITTEE STORMS FUFORE, INSPECTS RAMP II PROJECTS

House Standing Committee on Infrastructure and Community Development of the Adamawa State House of Assembly has on Tuesday stormed Fufore Local Government Area in continuation of its oversight function on Rural Access and Mobility Projects (RAMPII) road projects.

The committee has been inspecting the rural feeder roads being executed by the World Bank in conjunction with the State Government through RAMP II with a view to ascertaining the level of work so far achieved.

According to the House Committee, the inspection tour is part of its constitutional responsibility to oversight on the activities of the executive arm so as to ensure checks and balances.

Speaking while leading other members of the Committee shortly after assessing Parda-Moninga road in Fufore LGA, the Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Alhassan Hammanjoda (Ganye Constituency) disclosed that the primary reason behind the tour was to ensure compliance with budgetary provision.

The Chairman explained that it is their duty as parliamentarians to appropriate after which to oversight towards ensuring strict compliance in the interest of the state.

Hon. Hammanjoda advised the contractor to do everything possible and rehabillitate the road based specification and complete the job before rainy season so as to help the benefiting communities.

Also speaking, the member representing the Member representing Verre constituency, Hon. Abdullahi Umar Yapak said that Fufore has 2 constituencies: Verre and Fufore Gurin and that the roads are beneficial to both the constituencies.

Hon. added that both of them are working together with the interest of their teeming electorates in mind, and urged the Contractor to engage locals in the construction work as part of its corperate social responsibility.

Hon. Abdullahi Umar Yapak called on their constituents to rally round the Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri led administration to enable it succeed in delivering dividends of democracy.

On his part, Hon. Shuaibu Babas(Fufore Gurin) thanked the World Bank and State Government for awarding the rehabilitation of roads in his constituency and urged the Chairman Fufore LGC to supervise the work.

HOUSE C'TTEE EXPRESSES SATISFACTION WITH THE REHABILITATION OF NDIKONG ROAD

In continuation of its oversight function on rural feeder roads being rehabilitated by Rural Access and Mobility Projects (RAMP II) in the state, the Adamawa state House of Assembly Standing Committee on Infrastructure and Community Development has commended the quality of work executed on Ndikong road in Mayo Belwa LGA.

The House Committee headed by Hon. Alhassan Hammanjoda (Ganye) has embarked on an on the spot assessment of the RAMP II road projects so as to ascertain the level of work so far executed in some Local Government Areas.

Already, the Committee had visited Toungo- Kiri, Longa ewa- Wuro Abbo, Kola-Boshikiri, Shelleng -Bakta in Toungo, Jada, Guyuk and Shelleng Local Government Areas.

While the Committee lauded the quality of work executed in some LGAs, it however called for improvement on others so as to be of standard for the benefit of the communities.

Speaking to newsmen shortly after inspecting Poll Waya- Ndikong road in Mayo Belwa LGA Monday, the Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Alhassan Hammanjoda (Ganye) said that his Committee is satisfied with the level of work carried out on the road so far.

Hon. Alhassan said that so far the work is going on well and called on the construction company to put in more effort so as to complete the work based on the terms of agreement.

The lawmaker urged on the contractor to involve locals as labourers in the construction work for them to benefit from it.

According to him, his Committee members are carrying out their constitutional responsibility by going out to see for themselves the implementation of what they had budgeted for the executive arm.

In his remarks, the executive Chairman Mayo Belwa LGC, Hon. Gershon Kasuwa appreciated the World Bank, the State Government and RAMP II for awarding the rehabilitation of the roads in his LGA.

Hon. Kasuwa specifically thanked the House Committee for the visit, saying that the visit will make the construction company to be more serious in handling the work.

Speaking while leading the Committee on the side of the project, the Project Manager, China Zhonghao, Li Jinqiang thanked the Committee and assured them of the readiness of his company to completing the work as agreed.

VERDICT: HON. SIMON CONGRATULATES FINTIRI, LAUDS HOMBO-KOTI ROAD PROJECT

Hon. Simon Isa, Member Representing Song Constituency at ADHA

Adamawa State House of Assembly Member representing Song constituency, Hon. Simon Isa has joined other well meaning citizens to celebrate the victory of Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri at the Supreme Court last week.

A panel of 7 Justices of the apex court  led by Hon. Justice Olabode Rhodes Vivour delivered a unanimous judgment which held that the appeal instituted by the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC), challenging the election of Governor Fintiri lacked merit and summarily dismissed it.

Hon. Simon disclosed that the supreme court's verdict which validated the election of their Governor has closed the chapter of the legal battle initiated by opposition party since last year, declaring that the victory of the peoples' Governor at the court worth the celebration of all the citizens.

The Lawmaker pointed out that Song constituency in its entirety is delighted about the outcome of the judgement which according to him has opened a new vista for the Governor Fintiri's administration to accelerate on its drive to move the state forward in terms of development.

Hon. Simon who is the Chairman House Standing Committee on Water Resources felicitated with the Governor, leadership of the ruling Peoples' Democratic Party (PDP) at all levels, members and supporters on the supreme court's verdict, insisting that the victory is for the entire citizens.

He wished him and his government well in the course of piloting the ship of the state, pledging the unwavering support and corporation of his constituents to his administration so as to enable his government deliver on its mandate.

He however commended Fintiri's for approving the rehabilitation of Hombo- Koti road in his constituency, explaining that the contract is in line with the Governor's promise to construct the road.

Hon. Simon Isa added that the rehabilitation of the road will ease the transportation of goods and services, thereby boosting economic activities in Song Local Government Area and the state in general.

TRADERS DRAG AUTHORITIES OF YOLA SHOPPING COMPLEX TO COURT..HINGE CLAIMS ON BINDOW'S DIRECTIVES

Ex-Governor Muhammad Umar Jibrilla of Adamawa state

No fewer 7 Traders at Jimeta Shopping Complex in Yola, the Adamawa State capital have dragged the authorities of the complex to a Yola High over alleged attempt to dispose access road to unsuspecting buyers.

The Traders led by Salihu Abdulrauf told the court that the access road in contention is between shops and backside of the Police Station in the complex and it is used like emergency exit for shop owners and customers in emergency situations.

According to the complainants, the access road is also used as car park for traders and that it is the only available space where traders park their vehicles in the market.

The Traders alleged that the authorities of the complex are making plans to dispose the land to unsuspecting buyers illegally and secretly, saying that they had met the Secretary of the complex, Husseini A. Kyari and informed him that disposing the place will directly affect them.

They added that the Secretary of the complex told them that nothing will stop the authorities from selling the place because the Government of erstwhile Muhammad Umar Jibrilla had given them authority to sell it.

The Traders in suit number ADSY/44/2019/, was filed on 2nd April, 2019, by Salihu Abdulrauf and 6 others against Hussein A. Kyari, Secretary of the complex and other authorities of the complex.

The High Court presided by Hon. Justice Nathan Musa adjourned the matter to 12th February, 2020 for ruling.

MAN IN YOLA HIGH COURT FOR A LINK WITH A DEATH BODY

A man, Saddam Umar of Owerre street, Upper Luggere in Yola North Local Government Area, Adamawa state linked with a death body found at Bayero Hungushi in Yola has appeared before Yola High.

Saddam has been charged to court for alleged "conspiracy, culpable homicide and causing hurt from the same cause of action".

According to First Information Report (FIR), a piece of information received from one Buba Hassan of Army Barracks road in Jimeta Yola revealed that a death body was found laying down inside a soak away in the house and premises of one Samuel Paul of Bayero Hungushi in Jimeta Yola.

The scene of the incident according to FIR was visited by the Police men, and that the death body was found laying in a pool of blood while the suspect knew about the the incident but declined comment.

It added that Saddam Umar had information about the death body but refused to report the matter to the police on 1st April, 2019 Contrary to Section 105 Laws of Adamawa State 2015.

A suit number ADSY/167/2019/ indicated that the suspect was earlier on arraigned before Upper Area Court I, and Chief Magistrate Court Yola town for failure to give information to the Police.

But the man who is now standing trial at the High Court presided by Hon. Justice Abdul-Aziz Waziri, was granted bail with the sum of #2million, a surety who must be a district or village head and that he should be reporting to the Registrar of the court fortnightly.

ADHA C'TTEE QUERIES CHINESE COMPANY OVER CONSTRUCTION OF RURAL ROADS

Right to Left: Hon. Japheth Kefas(Gombi), Hon. Abdullahi Umar Yapak(Verre), Hon.Shuaibu Babas(Fufore Gurin), Executive Chairman Shelleng LGA, Hon. Alhassan Hammanjoda(Ganye) and Alh. Audu Buba, Sec C'tee on Infrastructure.

Outrightly dissatisfied with the standard of work done on some rural feeder roads, the Adamawa State House of Assembly Standing Committee on Rural Infrastructure and Community Development has queried a Chinese construction company handling the rehabilitation of some rural roads in the state.

The House Committee which was furious about the nature of work so far done on some of the roads, however summoned the construction company, Chinese Zhangwou to appear before it on Monday to explain reasons behind executing the work below standard.

According to the committee, there is no reason why the company will collect huge amount of money from the state government through Rural Access and Mobility Projects (RAMP II), yet could not execute projects to the satisfaction of the benefitting communities.

The Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Alhassan Hammanjoda (Ganye Constituency) stated this while leading other members of the Committee including: Hon. Abdullahi Umar Yapak (Verre), Hon. Japheth Kefas(Gombi), Hon.Shu'aibu Babas(Fufore Gurin) and Alh. Audu Buba, the Secretary of the Committee on an assessment tour today.

Hon. Hammanjoda disclosed that his Committee is not satisfied with the work done most especially some of the culverts constructed on Kola-Boshikiri in Guyuk, Shelleng-Bakta in Shelling, Toungo-Kiri in Toungo and Langa ewa-Wuro Abba -Wuro Yombe in Jada LGA.

He added that it appears the contractor is not serious enough to the contract awarded to his company, saying something urgent must be done to rectify it or else the company will incur the wrath of the house.

The Chairman pointed out that they had written to the Contractor that the House Committee will be inspecting the projects, but he was no where to be found which is a clear indication that he is not serious about his job.

According to him, the contract sum was paid to the Contractor about 3 months ago only for the company to commence work last week, saying that henceforth such contracts will be awarded to indigenous contractors.

Baring his mind, Hon. Abdullahi Umar Yapak (Verre) stated that the expectations of the citizens on the Members are very high and that they cannot afford to fail them in their representation, saying that they will not support anything that will not benefit their constituents.

Hon. Yapak called on both RAMP II and the Consultants to execute the work base on specification, pointing out that the Committee will be revisiting the site in the next 3 months and that if it discover that the work is not up standard, they will ask the government to revoke the contract.

According to him, they are the voice of the voiceless and they must speak on their behalf, insisting that the contractor must appear before the House Committee on Monday or take serious action against him.

On his part, Hon. Japheth Kefas( Gombi) expressed dissatisfaction with the work, saying that some of the culverts are not up to their expectations and that it will not benefit their people.

Hon. Kefas asserted that the Members are peoples' representatives and cannot betray them, saying that they cannot tolerate or condone any work that is not up to standard.

Responding, the Consultant, Eng. Emmanuel W. Gadzama revealed that their major challenge in carrying out the project is communication gap, saying that they do not have access to the contractor.

Eng.h Gadzama told the Committee that they will not blame the government because there are requirements for each contract to be awarded, adding that during submission, the company met the standard, but when it comes to execution, it was different story all together.

HON.KWADA CONDOLES EYN, MICHIKA OVER THE KILLING OF CAN CHAIR

Late Rev. Lawan Andimi, CAN Chairman Michika branch

Adamawa state House of Member representing Michika constituency, Hon. Joseph Ayuba Kwada has expressed heartfelt sympathy to the President Church of Brethren in Nigeria (EYN) and Michika Local Government Area over the killing of the Chairman Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Michika branch, Rev. Lawan Andimi.

Boko Haram terrorists had early this week rejected a N50m ransom and went ahead and beheaded the Chairman of the association Michika branch.

In a condolence message which was made available to newsmen Thursday, the Honourable Member extended a heartfelt sympathy on behalf of his family and Michika constituency to the President of EYN, Rev. Joel S. Billi and entire EYN church, family of the deceased, Michika LGA and the state in general over the killing of the Chairman.

"As you mourn the tragic loss of our dear father in the Lord, please be assured of my sympathy and profound sorrow by the manner of his demise especially as he still had a lot to contribute to the growth of the church".

The Lawmaker said that he received the news of the murder of the Chairman with a rude shock and described the gruesome murder of the Chairman as barbaric and animalistic.

However, he prayed God to comfort the President and the entire church, the family he left behind and his constituents in general at this hour of painful trial.

Hon. Joseph Ayuba Kwada (Depolis) who is also the Chairman House Standing on Security of the House of Assembly called on the government at all levels to do everything possible towards addressing security challenges facing the society.

EX-PASTOR TAKES WIFE TO YOLA HIGH COURT OVER DISRESPECT, SEEKS DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE

Erstwhile Acting Pastor of the Redeem Christian Church of God, Olagunju Oladipo has dragged his wife, Omotosho Kiken to a Yola High Court in Adamawa state over wife's disrespect and cruelty.

However, the man prayed the court to dissolve the marriage contracted about 19 year ago as he will no longer continue to live with her anymore.

The couple who live in Yola, the Adamawa state capital got marriage on 15th July, 2000 at the Marriage Registry of the High Court of Justice Olurunda Local Government Area of Osun state.

The petitioner and the respondent who appeared in court today, alleged that his wife is rude and not submissive to him, and that she has consistently maintained a cruel disposition towards him.

He informed the court that due to the respondent's disrespect, rude and cruel disposition towards him, on two occasions engaged in physical fight and he had to run out of his matrimonial home for safety to Kajulu, in Kajulu LGA in Kaduna state.

He added that it was his wife who dictates on issues, on the kind of education to bequeaths their 2 kids, and that he has no say on matters affecting his family.

Olagunju pleaded with the court to put a knife into the marriage as it has broken down irretrievably and that the wife has been cruel and have behaved in a manner that he cannot reasonably be expected to live with her.

The court presided by Hon. Justice Nathan Musa adjourned the matter to 17th February, 2020 for defence, and advised the couple not to continue behaving like the way do, as they have kids to take care of them and even asked the wife to greet the husband which she did in the court.

MAN DUPES PRAYER PARTNER #7.8 MILLION IN YOLA

Middle age man, Dominic David Chama of Luggere ward in Yola, the Adamawa state capital has been arraigned before Upper Area Court I Yola for duping his prayer partner, Onubiyi Augustine ofJambutu ward the sum of #7.8 million.

The suspect has been charged before the court over alleged impersonation, cheating and defamation of character contrary to sections 145, 312 and 377 of the Adamawa State Penal Code laws, 2018.

According to prosecution, the accused sometimes in 2018, presented himself as Personal Assistant (PA) to Professor Jeofrey Barminas Sware, the Director General (DG) National Institution for Chemical Technology, Zaria, in Kaduna state.

The prosecution added that the suspect deceived his victim and made him to fill and sign a form for a purported Federal Government Assisted Programme tagged "Say Yes To My Need" and duped the victim the sum of #7.8million.

The suspect who was arraigned before the court pleaded guilty and said he duped the victim about #4million and not #7.8million, and urged the court to grand him bail so that he will go and look for money to pay back the victim.

Dominic told the court that he used part of the money he collected and bought a Toyota starlet and spent the remaining balance.

Thereafter, the Prosecutor, Inspector Zakka Musa urged the court to adjourn the matter so as to invite witnesses to corroborate with his plea of guilty and to prove the remaining money because according to him the alleged money is #7.8 million and not #4million.

The court which was presided by Magistrate Mohammed Abubakar, adjourned the case to 28th January, 2020 for hearing.

In a chat with NEWS PLATFORM counsel to the complainant, Barr Joseph Na'ada Yakubu alleged that his client was duped by the suspect and that he is now standing trial in the court of law.
Barr Na'ada Yakubu narrated that both the suspect and complainant worship in the same chuch, Christ Miracle Church Mission (CMCM) in Jimeta and that it was there that they established rapport.

He disclosed that there was a time the victim assisted the suspect with the sum of #200,000 to treat his mother who was hospitalised and that since then, he took the advantage of the kind gesture and started planning on how to dupe the victim.

He added that the suspect registered a sim card in the name of the Professor and was calling the victim with the number, pretending to be the Professor, saying that the defendant later met the victim with the purported form from the Central Bank of Nigeria and asked him to fill it.

He explained that Dominic met the victim with the form and told him it was the Professor that had sent him with it for him to fill and that after he filled the form, he was asked to be depositing money in 2 accounts provided by the accused.

According to him, the suspect started calling him with the number he registered in the name of the Professor to continue depositing money which amounted to #7.8million.

He said his client started depositing money into the accounts since July last year with the expectation of proceeds from the money he deposited as promised to him by the suspect.

He further disclosed that the victim became suspicious with the transaction and narrated his odeal to his auntie who in turn contacted the Professor on the matter, but surprisingly, the Professor denied knowledge of the alleged transaction.

According to him, it was at this juncture that they reported the matter at the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) at the police headquarters, hence the arrest of the suspect.

JUDGEMENT: ADAMAWA NUT CELEBRATES WITH FINTIRI, HAILS VERDICT

Comrade Rodney Nathan, Chairman NUT Adamawa state chapter

The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) Adamawa state chapter has congratulated Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri over his victory at the supreme Court on Tuesday.

The Apex Court on Tuesday in Abuja, upheld the election of Governor Fintiri as duly elected Governor and dismissed the appeal brought before it by All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state for lacking in merit.

This was contained in a statement personally signed by the Chairman of the union, Comrade Rodney Nathan, and made available to NEWS PLATFORM in Yola, the Adamawa state capital today.

The NUT boss insisted that the affirmation of Fintiri as the Governor of Adamawa state by court was a perfect will of God and electorate which according to him will advance positive development in the state.

According to him, the verdict has no doubt laid to rest the legal tussle over the victory of the ruling Peoples' Democratic Party (PDP) and its candidate, and however gave kudos to judiciary for defending the mandate of the citizens in the state.

Furthermore, Comrade Rodney made a passionate appeal on the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC) to join hands with the "Fresh Air Governor" to move the state forward.

On the part of the union, he declared that it members are committed to complementing the effort of the government towards revitalising the education sector, pledging unalloyed support and corporation of the union and its members for success of the government of the day.

FINTIRI CELEBRATES LEGAL VICTORY: VOWS TO PROBE PAST GOVTS

Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State

Amidst wild celebration of the legal victory by Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa state at the Supreme Court in Abuja Tuesday, the Governor has stormed Yola, the state capital with a vow to probe previous governments in the state.

This is in line with his resolved to ensure accountability, probity, equity and political balance in the act of governance in the state.

Governor Fintiri who was addressing a tumultuous crowd who besieged Mahmadu Ribadu Square Wednesday to welcome him back, announced his intention to go tough on past corrupt public office holders who siphoned public funds meant for the development of the state.

He told the gathering that the corrupt practices perpetrated in the previous administrations have crippled most especially Local Government administrations in the state and the entire system of governance.

According to him, the government of the day has zero tolerance on corruption and as such no any corrupt government official will be spared in the war against the cankerworm.

He thanked God for giving him the victory at the Apex Court and appreciated the people of the state for electing him to serve them, calling on the opposition political parties in the state to come and join hands with him in order to move the state forward.

SPEAKER ADHA FELICITATES WITH FINTIRI OVER SUPREME COURT VERDICT

Rt. Hon. Aminu Iya Abbas, Speaker ADHA


The speaker Adamawa State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Aminu Iya Abbas has felicitated with Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri over the supreme court judgement which affirmed his election as Governor of Adamawa state

He described the ruling as a victory for people of the state as their hope of breathing the fresh air was rekindled.

Rt. Hon. Aminu Iya Abbas called on the people of Adamawa state to continue in supporting the present administration in its commitment to initiate more result oriented projects and policies that will have impact on their  lives.

According to him,the state legislature will always partner with the executive arm in the interest of development of the state.

SUPREME COURT: ADHA MP, MICHIKA COMMUNITY REJOICE WITH GOV FINTIRI

Hon. Joseph Ayuba Kwada (Depolis), Michika Constituency ADHA

Adamawa State House of Assembly Legislator representing Michika Constituency, Hon. Joseph Ayuba Kwada and his Michika Community have joined hundreds of well wishers in and around the state in celebrating the victory of Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri and the Peoples' Democratic Party(PDP) at Apex Court.

The Supreme Court had on Tuesday validated the election of Governor Fintiri and his party and duly threw away the appeal instituted by the opposition All Progressives Congress(APC) in the state.

A statement by the Media Office of Hon. Kwada (Depolis) and made available to newsmen in Yola, the Adamawa state capital, said that the entire Michika Local Government Area welcomed the court dismissal of the appeal against the peoples' Governor and his political party.

Hon. Kwada who is the Chairman House Standing Committee on Security of the hallowed chamber noted that the apex court was apt and consistent with the principle of justice administration in affirming the peoples' mandate in Adamawa state.

He congratulated the Governor on behalf of his family and Michika constituency in general for the victory, saying that the resounding victory deserves celebration from all and sundry.

He however reiterated the unwavering support and corporation to Fintiri's government so as to enable it deliver on its mandate, saying that the victory will encourage the Governor to continue to do more for his teeming electorate in the state.

Hon. Joseph Ayuba Kwada called on the Governor to fire on in his quest to delivering dividends of democracy and good governance to the people of Adamawa state.

HON. LEKKI HAILS SUPREME COURT VERDICT, CONGRATULATES FINTIRI

Hon. Hamidu Sajo Lekki, Yola North Constituency ADHA

Member representing Yola North Constituency in the Adamawa State House of Assembly, Hon. Hamidu Sajoh Lekki has described the victory of Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri and the Peoples' Democratic Part (PDP) at the Supreme Court as victory for democracy and the people of the state.

In a congratulatory message on behalf of his family and the good people of Yola North Constituency by his Media Office on Tuesday, the lawmaker disclosed that the Supreme Court verdict affirmed the yearnings of the people of state that Fintiri is the preferred leader with requisite attributes to fix the state on the path of greatness.

Hon. Lekki who is the Chairman House Standing Committee on Health and Human Services, declared that the resounding victory of Fintiri, "The Fresh Air Governor" has refreshed every part of the state, adding that the outcome would enhance good governance that will make everybody proud.

Hon. Lekki added that the victory is for the entire citizens who are yearning for good governance which according to him the PDP government is vigorously pursuing and urged the opposition APC and its flag bearer to accept the judgement in good fate and support Fintiri in the interest of the state.

He advised Fintiri to see himself as a man of destiny and should always remember that God gives power to whoever he wishes, and he should remain focus so as to deliver dividends of democracy to the citizens.

While reaffirming his loyalty to the leadership of the Peoples' Democratic Party (PDP) at all levels, the legislator tasked other political parties to join hands with the government of Ahmadu Fintiri for the betterment of the state.

HON. LEKKI HAILS SUPREME COURT VERDICT, CONGRATULATES FINTIRI

Hon. Hamidu Sajo Lekki, Yola Constituency ADHA

Member representing Yola North constituency in the Adamawa State House of Assembly, Hon. Hamidu Sajoh Lekki has described the victory of Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri and the Peoples' Democratic Part (PDP) at the Supreme Court as victory for democracy and the people of the state.

In a congratulatory message on behalf of his family and the good people of Yola North constituency by his Media Office on Tuesday, the lawmaker said that the Supreme Court verdict affirmed the yearnings of the people of state that Fintiri is the preferred leader with requisite attributes to fix the state on the path of greatness.

Hon. Lekki who is the Chairman House Standing Committee on Health and Human Services, declared that the resounding victory of Fintiri, "The Fresh Air Governor" has refreshed every part of the state, adding that the outcome would enhance good governance that will make every body proud.

Hon. Lekki added that the victory is for the entire citizens who are yearning for good governance which the PDP government is vigorously pursuing and urged the opposition APC and its flag bearer to accept the judgement in good fate and support Fintiri in the interest of the state.

He advised Fintiri to see himself as a man of destiny and should always remember that God gives power to whoever he wishes, and he should remain focus so as to deliver dividends of democracy to the citizens.

While reaffirming his loyalty to the leadership of the Peoples' Democratic Party (PDP) at all levels, the legislator tasked other political parties to join hands with the government of Ahmadu Fintiri for the betterment of the state.

PRAYER PARTNER SWINDLED COLLEAGUE OF #7.8 MILLION

A 32 year old, Dominic David Chama of Luggere ward in Yola, the Adamawa state capital has been arraigned before Upper Area Court I Yola for duping his prayer partner, Onubiyi Augustine of Jambutu ward the sum of #7.8 million.

The suspect has been charged before the court over alleged impersonation, cheating and defamation of character contrary to sections 145, 312 and 377 of the Adamawa State Penal Code laws, 2018.

According to prosecution, the accused sometimes in 2018, presented himself as Personal Assistant (PA) to Professor Jeofrey Barminas Sware, the Director General (DG) National Institution for Chemical Technology, Zaria, in Kaduna state.

The prosecution added that the suspect deceived his victim and made him to fill and sign a form for a purported Federal Government Assisted Programme tagged "Say Yes To My Need" and duped the victim the sum of #7.8million.

The suspect who was arraigned before the court pleaded guilty and said he duped the victim about #4million and not #7.8million, and urged the court to grand him bail so that he will go and look for money to pay back the victim.

Dominic told the court that he used part of the money he collected and bought a Toyota starlet and squandered the remaining balance.

Thereafter, the Prosecutor, Inspector Zakka Musa urged the court to adjourn the matter so as to invite witnesses to corroborate with his plea of guilty and to prove the remaining money because according to him the alleged money is #7.8 million and not #4million.

The court which was presided by Magistrate Mohammed Abubakar, adjourned the case to 28th January, 2020 for hearing.

In a chat with NEWS PLATFORM, counsel to the complainant, Barr Joseph Na'ada Yakubu alleged that his client was duped by the suspect and that he is now standing trial in the court of law.

Barr Na'ada Yakubu narrated that both the suspect and complainant worship in the same chuch, Christ Miracle Church Mission (CMCM) in Jimeta and that it was there that they established rapport.

He disclosed that there was a time the victim assisted the suspect with the sum of #200,000 to treat his mother who was hospitalised and that since then, he took the advantage of the kind gesture and started planning on how to dupe the victim.

He added that the suspect registered a sim card in the name of the Professor and was calling the victim with the number, pretending to be the Professor, saying that the defendant later met the victim with the purported form from the Central Bank of Nigeria and asked him to fill it.

He explained that Dominic met the victim with the form and told him it was the Professor that had sent him with it for him to fill and that after he filled the form, he was asked to be depositing money in 2 accounts provided by the accused.

According to him, the suspect started calling him with the number he registered in the name of the Professor to continue depositing money which amounted to #7.8million.

He said his client started depositing money into the accounts since July last year with the expectation of proceeds from the money he deposited as promised to him by the suspect.

He further disclosed that the victim became suspicious with the transaction and narrated his ordeal to his sister who in turn contacted the Professor on the matter, but surprisingly, the Professor denied knowledge of the alleged transaction.

According to him, it was at this juncture that they reported the matter at the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) at the police headquarters, hence the arrest of the suspect.

ADHA DEP SPEAKER CONGRATULATES FINTIRI OVER VICTORY AT APEX COURT

Hon. Pwamwakaino Mackondo, Dep Speaker ADHA

Following a resounding victory by Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri at the supreme court Tuesday, the Deputy Speaker Adamawa State House of Assembly, Hon. Pwamwakaino Mackondo has felicitated with the Governor over supreme court's verdict that upheld his election.

Hon. Mackondo who is the member representing Numan Constituency expressed heartfelt congratulations over the victory of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Fintiri at the court, saying that the victory is not for the PDP and the Governor alone but the entire people of the state.

A statement by the Deputy Speaker which was made available to newsmen in Yola, the Adamawa state capital Tuesday, said that the court has finally put indelible judicial seal on Fintiri's victory at the poll.

The lawmaker asserted that himself and entire Numan constituents are glad that the legal tussle which started at Governorship Election Petition Tribunal, Appeal Court and now Supreme has ended in favour of the peoples' Governor.

He heartily rejoiced with PDP, Fintiri and teeming electorate of the state on the affirmation of solid mandate given to their government, and wished Fintiri a successful tenure.

While appealing for support and corporation from all and sundry, Hon. Pwamwakaino Mackondo, called on the opposition parties to rally round the present administration for the progress of the state.

BOKO HARAM REJECTS #50 MILLION RANSOM, BEHEADS MICHIKA CAN CHAIR

Facts have emerged on how Boko Haram terrorists rejected N50m ransom and went ahead to behead Chairman Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Michika, Adamawa State, Rev. Lawan Andimi on Monday.

The insurgents had demanded for £2m (N946m) but was only offered N50m, infuriating the terrorists, who soon turned their anger on the victim, according to CAN chairman in the state, Stephen Dami Mamza.

He said, “Pastor Lawan was beheaded yesterday.“Negations were still ongoing when they stopped calling. They were offered N50m but they rejected it.

“They called his wife last week, informing her that they will be beheading him on Saturday but somehow they waited till Monday.

“Also yesterday, Pastor Dennis Bagauri of the Lutheran Church was killed in Jereng, Mayo-Belwa area of Adamawa State.

“It is now clear that Christians are not protected by the government; we don't feel like we have a government.”

Reacting to the incident, the Adamawa State Government described the action of the terror group as barbaric.

Director-General, Media and Communication to Governor Ahmadu Fintiri, Solomon Kumangar, said, “The governor is saddened by the gruesome execution of the pastor.”

Andimi was abducted two weeks ago when Boko Haram fighters stormed Michika town in search of foodstuff and other basic items.

SAHARAREPORTERS, NEW YORK

ADHA CONDOLES NUJ, FOMBINA FM OVER THE DEATH ITS CORRESPONDENT

Adamawa State House of Assembly has on Monday joined hundreds of sympathizers in condoling the family of one its correspondents, Maxwell Nashon who was murdered in cold blood by unidentified persons in Yola last week.

Until his glorious exit, Nashion was the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN) Fombina FM's House of Assembly correspondent.

A statement by the Vice Chairman House Standing Committee on Information and member representing Shelleng, Hon. Abubakar Isa described the death of the Correspondent as unfortunate and huge loss to the family, Fombina, NUJ and the House of Assembly.

The statement specifically expressed heartfelt sympathy to the Management of Fombina FM Yola, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) over the untimely death of the season broadcaster.

According to the statement, the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Aminu Iya Abbas, other Honourable Members and the entire staff of the House received the news of Maxwell's killing with rude shock, describing him as a hardworking journalist who exhibited passion and patriotism in his work.

It added that the death of Maxwell Nashon is a great loss not only to the journalism profession but the entire state, and prayed for the repose of the soul of the deceased and for God to comfort the family he left behind.

ADHA CONDOLES NUJ, FOMBINA FM OVER THE DEATH ITS CORRESPONDENT

Adamawa State House of Assembly has on Monday joined hundreds of sympathizers in condoling the family of one its correspondents, Maxwell Nashon who was murdered in cold blood by unidentified persons in Yola last week.

Until his glorious exit, Nashion was the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN) Fombina FM's House of Assembly correspondent.

A statement by the Vice Chairman House Standing Committee on Information and member representing Shelleng, Hon. Abubakar Isa described the death of the Correspondent as unfortunate and huge loss to the family, Fombina, NUJ and the House of Assembly.

The statement specifically expressed heartfelt sympathy to the Management of Fombina FM Yola, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) over the untimely death of the season broadcaster.

According to the statement, the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Aminu Iya Abbas, other Honourable Members and the entire staff of the House received the news of Maxwell's killing with rude shock, describing him as a hardworking journalist who exhibited passion and patriotism in his work.

It added that the death of Maxwell Nashon is a great loss not only to the journalism profession but the entire state, and prayed for the repose of the soul of the deceased and for the God to comfort the family he left behind.

7 MEN IN COURT OVER ALLEGED ASSAULT AGAINST HOUSE WIVES IN ADAMAWA

A man, Meshack Teri and 6 others from Mararaba Mubi in Adamawa state have on Friday appeared before Upper Area Court I in Yola over alleged criminal conspiracy and assault against 2 house wives.

However, the Upper Area Court had during it sitting fixed Tuesday 4th February, 2020 for ruling on the alleged criminal conspiracy and assault against Monica Zira and Omega Sunday of Mararaba Mubi.

The suspects were charged to court over criminal conspiracy, inciting disturbance, trial by order, assault, criminal force to women with intent to outrage modesty causing grievous hurt and attempt to commit culpable homicide.

The plaintiffs informed the honourable court that it all started on 20th May, 2018 when the daughter of Meshack who was impregnated by unknown person, lost a lot of blood during her time of delivery.

According to them, instead of her father to seek for medical attention, he went to a native doctor and the doctor told him that it was the complainants (Monica Zira and Omega Sunday respectively) that bewitched his daughter and responsible for the loss of the blood.

They alleged that Meshack mobilised touts in the community and beat them to stupor to the extend of stripping them naked, dragged them on the ground up to a kilometer, adding that the suspects put sticks into their private parts and bled profusely until they became unconscious.

The duo stated that it took the intervention of the Police who came and started firing tear gas, hence dispersing the suspects, adding that it was the police that took them to hospitals for treatment.

They narrated that even when the matter was reported at the Upper Area Court I Yola on 14th July, 2018, the suspects after the court granted them bail, came to houses and removed all their properties and had to run for their lives.

The complainants further alleged that the action of the suspects brought and an end to their marriages and presently living their relatives in Yola, the state capital.

But the suspects who were arraigned before the court on 11th June, 2018, they pleaded not guilty to the offence and since then the matter has been at the court up to date.

But at it resume sitting on Friday 16 January, 2020, the court presided by Magistrate Halilu Aliyu adjourned the matter to Tuesday 4th February, 2020 for ruling.

 The decision of the court was sequel to oral application by the Prosecution, Inspector Zakka Musa where he asked the court to grant the case accelerated hearing following a series of adjournment it has suffered since it was instituted.

ADAMAWA: HOUSE WIFE DRAGS NEIGHBOUR TO COURT OVER ATTEMPTED RAPE

A 30 year old house wife, Asma'u Isa of Nepa ward in Yola North Local Government Area has dragged her neighbour, Mustapha Usman to Criminal Area Court II in Yola over attempted rape.

Asma'u told the honourable court that her husband, Isa left for Jalingo, Taraba state in search for greener pasture and decided to leave her in Yola to take care of the family.

The house wife alleged that on Wednesday 15th January, 2020 by 1:00am her neighbour and the accused entered her room and removed her rapper in an attempt to rape her.

She said that the respondent took her torchlight and tried to have an affair with her even when the bulb of her room was on as there was power supply at that time, saying that she was able to identify him since there was light.

She added that on Thursday 16th January, 2020, the mother of the suspect returned the torchlight to her and pleaded with her to exercise patience.

But when the case was mentioned, the suspect vehemently denied the allegation levelled against him by his neighbour and said as far as he is concerned, he is not aware of what  happened to her and not to talk of being the suspect.

The accused who appeared like a drug addict, told the court that he was ready to swear with the Quaran to prove his innocence.

But the Criminal Area Court presided by Hon. Umar Gangs adjourned the matter to Monday 20th January, 2020, to enable the suspect rethink over his plea to swear with the Quaran.

BATTA TRADITIONAL COUNCIL TO CROWN ADAMAWA NUT CHAIR AS "NGRA BATTA" FEBRUARY 8TH

Comrade Rodney Nathan, NUT Chair Adamawa State

Batta Traditional Council in Adamawa State is set for another historic event as necessary arrangements have been completed for the turbaning ceremony of the current Chairman Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) Adamawa state chapter, Comrade Rodney Nathan as "Ngra Batta"

Comrade Rodney is the Chairman Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) Adamawa state chapter, Vice Chairman Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in the state and Deputy National Leader NUT, Arewa.

Like any other traditional institution in the country, Batta Traditional Council equally crowns its illustrious sons and daughters who distinguished themselves in their calling.

A copy of the invitation which was made available to NEWS PLATFORM Friday, indicated that Comrade Rodney will be turbaned by his Royal Majesty, the Hama Batta, Homun Alhamdu G. Teneke.

The event according to the invitation will take place on 8th February, 2020 by 10:00am at the palace of the royal father in Demsa Local Government Area Adamawa state.

It added that reception will take place at Njoboliyo, in Fufore Local Government Area in the state immediately after the turbaning ceremony.

HOW FAKE MILITARY PERSONNEL HACKED FEMALE LOVER TO DEATH IN YOLA

Late Patience Amos Ya'u, of Bachure in Yola North LGA

A 23 year old, Patience Amos Ya'u of Bachure ward in Yola North Local Government Area Adamawa state would not be among her peers and new Army recruits who have commenced training at Military training depot in Kaduna state.

Patience Amos Ya'u who was newly recruited Army Officer could not be part of the training because of the tragedy which struck a day to the commencement of the training

The beautiful Patience was said to have been hacked to death by her boy friend, Ali Mohammed Wakil during a scuffle that ensured while they were alone in a room around 11:00pm on 12th January, 2020.

The gruesome murder of the girl threw the family, relations, friends and the management and staff of the Adamawa Press Limited, Publishers of The Scope newspaper, Yola where the father of the deceased works as Chief Driver.

Sources close to the family of the victim told NEWS PLATFORM that Mohammed Wakil was a familiar friend to the deceased whom they were always seeing together and parading himself as military personnel.

Some of the sources alleged that the boy friend who claimed to be a military personnel serving with 68 Reference Hospital Yaba in Lagos state may be a dismissed officer and only impersonating the military.

Another source at Damilu, where the incident occurred said that they heard the deceased and her boy friend in the room, but could not categorically explain the circumstances that led to the killing of Patience.

One of the neighbour asserted that they became more suspicious when they could not see the lady for good three days, saying what worried them more was the terrible odour emitting from their room.

To them, what compounded the situation was how the door of the room was locked from the outside, a development which compelled them to forcefully open the window of the room only to discover the body of the female lover at the stage of decomposition.

The discovery of the death body attracted crowd who later proceeded to the palace of the ward head before the matter was finally reported to the police.

A family source who confided in that NEWS PLATFORM said that they saw the suspect near the residence of the father of the deceased, strolling and enjoying his normal life at the time when the girl was declared missing.

The source further added that at the time that the police officers who went to inform the father of the victim about the incident, the suspect was also sighted near the house of the father of the victim.

Narrating how the incident happened, the father of the deceased, Amos Ya'u, explained that his daughter left his house on Saturday to plait her hair but could not come back again despite her assurance to them that she was on her way back home.

He said that they had called her on phone on that fateful evening but she told them that she will be coming back home and waited but could not see her.

According to him, they called her line on Sunday 12th, January, 2020 but it was not going through, and that since that day, they had not seen her until Tuesday 14th when a police officer came and informed him of her death, a situation he could not believe it.

But when contacted for comments, the Spokesman of the state Police Command, DSP, Suleiman Yahaya Nguroje, confirmed the killing of Patience.

DSP Yahaya Nguroje added that when the matter was reported to the command, the Commissioner of Police directed that the suspect be apprehended and that their men were able to arrest the suspect.

He stated that the suspect is now cooling his heels at the Criminal Investigation Department and that he has been assisting them with relevant information that led to the murder of the girl, adding that the police are doing everything possible to gather both human and material evidences.

DSP Suleiman Yahaya Nguroje told NEWS PLATFORM that the suspect identified himself as Ali Mohammed Wakil, a military officer serving at Reference Hospital Yaba in Lagos state Nigeria.

GANYE GENERAL HOSPITAL TO BECOME REFERRAL CENTRE, SAYS FINTIRI

Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa state

Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State has pledged to equip Ganye General Hospital in Ganye Local Government Area Adamawa state with sophisticated medical equipment to make it become a referral centre for the chiefdom.

According to the governor, the government of the day will soon deploy more man power at the hospital for effective service delivery.

The Governor who stated this Tuesday while fielding questions from newsmen shortly after inspecting  the hospital, said that his government is committed to improving the standard of the hospital to meet the health needs of the people in the area.

According to him, making the general hospital more functional will go along way in assisting people in the chiefdom, reiterating his commitment to according the sector needed attention.

He told newsmen that the present administration will equally embark on the renovation of other hospitals in the state with state-of-art facilities and qualified personnel for optimum performance.

He gave kudos to the Senator representing Adamawa Southern Senatorial district, Dauda Binos Yaroe for introducing free medical out reach for his electorate.

CRIMINAL BREACH OF TRUST: COURT STRIKES OUT CASE AGAINST EX- DUMNE ADMINISTRATOR

Yola Upper Area Court III in Adamawa state has struck out a case of criminal breach of trust and cheating against the erstwhile Administrator Dumne State Development Area, Hon. Padio Amos Sunday.

The former Administrator was earlier dragged to the court by one Alhaji Umar Abdullahi who was contracted to supply 50 trips of laterite for the rehabilitation of Loko -Dumne road.

The ex- Administrator and younger brother to the Head of Civil Service of the state, Dr. Edgar Sunday Amos, awarded the contract in his capacity as the Admonistrator of the Development Area.

Hon. Padio engaged the services of the complainant to supply the laterite at the cost of #200,000 which the complainant supplied but only #110,000 was given to him as part payment.

But at its resume sitting today, the Court presided by Hon. Umar Isa, struck out the case as a result of failure of the complainant and his counsel to appear in court.

Hon. Umar dismissed the case based on the application filed by the counsel to the respondent, MB Abdullahi Ribadu where he cited section 352 (2) of Adamawa State Criminal Justice Law which stipulates that the court may strike out a case if the complainant fails to appear in without any reason.

Earlier, the court ruled that the complainant has the right to institute legal action against the defendant.

CRIMINAL BREACH OF TRUST: COURT STRIKES OUT CASE AGAINST EX- DUMNE ADMINISTRATOR

Yola Upper Area Court III in Adamawa state has struck out a case of criminal breach of trust and cheating against the erstwhile Administrator Dumne State Development Area, Hon. Padio Amos Sunday.

The former Administrator was earlier dragged to the court by one Alhaji Umar Abdullahi who was contracted to supply 50 trips of laterite for the rehabilitation of Loko -Dumne road.

The ex- Administrator and younger brother to the Head of Civil Service of the state, Dr. Edgar Sunday Amos, awarded the contract in his capacity as the Administrator of the Development Area.

Hon. Padio engaged the services of the complainant to supply the laterite at the cost of #200,000 which the complainant supplied but only #110,000 was given to him as part payment.

But at its resume sitting today, the Court presided by Hon. Umar Isa, struck out the case as a result of failure of the complainant and his counsel to appear in court.

Hon. Umar dismissed the case based on the application filed by the counsel to the respondent, MB Abdullahi Ribadu where he cited section 352 (2) of Adamawa State Criminal Justice Law which stipulates that the court may strike out a case if the complainant fails to appear in without any reason.

Earlier, the court ruled that the complainant has the right to institute legal action against the defendant.

JUST IN: YOLA AREA COURT DISCHARGES A 25 YEAR OLD RAPE SUSPECT

Upper Area Court III sitting in Yola, the Adamawa state capital has just acquitted and discharged a 25 year old, Mohammed Aliyu of a rape charge slammed against him.

Mohammed Aliyu, a commercial tricyclist hailed from Yola South Local Area, Adamawa state was arraigned before the court for an of "Act Gross Indencency" against 5 year old girl from the LGA.

As contained in the First Information Report (FIR) tendered before the Honourable Court by the prosecution in suit number/Y/12/c3/2018/, the young man was charged for an offence of an "Act of Gross Indecency" and not rape as widely reported recently.

Delivering its judgement on the matter on Tuesday, the Court presided by Honourable Umar Isa declared that the prosecution failed to prove its case beyond reasonable doubt.

Hon. Isa said that the prosecution woefully failed to provide authoritative medical report to support the matter that complainant was actually raped. 

According to him, the suspect as contained in the FIR tendered before the court by the prosecution, was charged for an"Act of Gross Indecency " and not rape and therefore discharged the suspect accordingly.

More details shortly...

3 MEN TO DIE BY HANGING FOR ARMED ROBBERY IN ADAMAWA

Yola Division of the Appeal Court in Adamawa state has affirmed the judgement of the state High Court sentencing three men to death by hanging for armed robbery and culpable homicide.

The Court of Appeal held that the state High acted in the interest of justice by sentencing the convicts to death by hanging, thereby upholding the death penalty.

The convicts, Rabiu Alhaji Wada, 25, Luka Umaru,35, and Hamisu Sani, 22, from Adamawa were handed down the death sentence after pleading quilty of three count charge of conspiracy, armed robbery and culpable homicide.

The trio were convicted for conspiracy and armed robbery while armed with offensive weapons contrary to section 6(b) and punishable under section 1(2) (a) of the robbery and firearms (Special Provision) act cap R11 Laws of the Federation.

According to the prosecution, the culpable homicide with death was committed in furtherance of a common intention contrary to section 79 and 221 (a) of the Penal Code.

Earlier, the convicts were arraigned before the state High Court presided by Hon. Justice Abdul-Aziz Waziri on the 23th February, 2017 and jointly charged for the offences.

The High Court had while delivering its judgement in suit number/ADYS/17c/2017/ on the 10th April, 2018, sentenced them to death by hanging for the offences.

According to the court, the convicts were to be hanged by the neck until certified dead by a medical doctor.

Dissatisfied with the verdict of the lower court, the affected persons appealed the court's decision on 6th July, 2018 on the grounds that the lower court erred in law when it convicted them solely on a confessional statement which they retracted.

But delivering its judgement on the matter, the Appeal Court presided by Hon. Justice Chidi Nwaoma Uwa dismissed the application and affirmed the judgement of the state High Court on the death sentence.

GANYE FIRE DISASTER: ADHA MP COMMISERATES WITH VICTIMS, SEEKS INTERVENTION

Hon. Alhassan Hammanjoda, Ganye Const ADHA

Following a fire disaster which wrecked havoc in Ganye market on Saturday, the Member representing Ganye constituency at the Adamawa State House of Assembly Hon. Alhassan Hammanjoda has extended his heartfelt sympathy to victims of the inferno in his constituency.

The Honourable member however sought for government's intervention on behalf of the victims of the fire disaster where it razed down about 20 shops, warehouses and other valuables.

A statement by the Lawmaker's Media Office which was made available to NEWS PLATFORM in Yola Sunday, expressed heartfelt commiserations to victims over the unfortunate incident.

Hon. Alhassan said he was deeply saddened by the level of destruction recorded and appealed for government's intervention in order to cushion the effect of hardship felt by the victims.

The Lawmaker specifically sympathised with the Gangwari Ganye, Alhaji Umaru Adamu Sanda, the executive Chairman Ganye Local Government Council, Traders' Associations, other businessmen and women and the entire people of the area over the disaster, and prayed God to turn their losses into greater blessings.

Hon. Alhassan who is also the Chairman House Standing Committee on Rural Infrastructure and Community Development of the state Assembly said he shares in the pain of all hardworking businessmen who lost their shops and other belongings to the unfortunate incident.

He promised to communicate the issue to the State Assembly for it to mandate the Emergency Management Agencies to intervene so to ameliorate the plight of the affected.