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Dafinone’s Senate Performance: A Letdown for Urhobo

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Senator Ede Dafinone

By Dr. Joseph Tedwins Emudainohwo

Senator Ede Dafinone attended the public hearing in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State, as part of a select group of senators overseeing bills for the creation of new states in the South-South region. Over the course of nearly six hours of deliberations on the first day, Dafinone spoke only once—introducing himself briefly—before remaining silent for the rest of the engagement.

During the session, the bill for the creation of Anioma State was presented and received robust applause. Another proposal for a state for the Itsekiri and Ilaje people also attracted discussion. However, a bill for a state in Akwa Ibom was strongly opposed. Notably, throughout the two-day public hearing held on July 4–5, 2025, in Ikot Ekpene, the bill for the creation of Ethiope State was not mentioned at all. Senator Dafinone neither raised the issue nor made any declaration of support for it.

When a similar public hearing later took place on July 19, 2025, in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State—organized by the House of Representatives—the bill for Ethiope State, sponsored by Hon. Benedict Etanabene of Okpe/Sapele/Uvwie Federal Constituency, finally received attention. By then, however, it had become clear that the initiative had been abandoned by Senator Dafinone himself.

Senator Ede Dafinone

The promoters of Ethiope State had initially approached him to sponsor the bill, but he declined—claiming his prior commitment to Anioma State’s creation prevented him from supporting another. This argument falls flat: there is no inherent conflict between backing Anioma State and advocating for a state that directly serves his own constituents. In fact, his own words underline the contradiction:

“While we qualify for our own state, we stand with our Anioma brothers and sisters. This is not about drawing lines; it is about reimagining the federation with justice at its core.”

 

If Dafinone, as senator for Delta Central, could see “justice” in Anioma State’s cause but refused to champion Ethiope State for the Urhobo people, one must ask: why should the Urhobo keep him as their senator? If his loyalty lies with Anioma, shouldn’t he move there? More puzzling still is why his defenders attempt to spin his late and half-hearted mention of Ethiope State as some sort of achievement.

A Track Record of Weak Representation

Since assuming office, Senator Dafinone’s tenure has been riddled with flaws—sluggishness, indecision, and a lack of commitment to the Urhobo cause. The Urhobo voice in the Senate, once expected to be loud and assertive, has been muted under his watch. This is uncharacteristic of Urhobos, a people known for being vibrant, outspoken, and uncompromising in defending their interests.

Unlike his peers, Senator Dafinone does not chair any committee. He excuses this by citing the limitations of being a first-term senator. Yet many of his fellow first-term colleagues occupy key positions: Senator Ned Nwoko (Delta North) chairs the Senate Committee on Refinery Maintenance and Probe as well as the Ad-hoc Committee on Crude Oil Theft, while Senator Joel Onowakpo-Thomas (Delta South) chairs the Senate Committee on Local Content.

If lack of experience explains his absence from leadership roles, what then accounts for his lethargy in other areas? Where are his contributions to budget debates, given his acclaimed expertise as a chartered accountant? How often has he amplified the needs of Delta Central on the Senate floor?

Misplaced Claims of Achievement

Some apologists point to constituency projects as proof of his effectiveness. But every senator receives an allocation for such projects; delivering them is a statutory duty, not a mark of excellence. Real achievement comes from attracting additional projects, resources, or benefits to one’s constituency—something Dafinone has not demonstrated.

The Senate is not a training ground; it is a platform for leadership and advocacy. The Urhobo cannot afford to wait while their senator “learns on the job.” In legislative work—debates, oversight, lobbying for appointments, shaping policy, securing funding—the people of Delta Central have seen little to justify Dafinone’s mandate.

A Costly Mistake for Urhobo

The truth is stark: electing Ede Dafinone to the Senate has been a costly mistake. Unlike his late father, Senator David Omueya Dafinone, he lacks the grit, boldness, and combative edge needed to thrive in Nigeria’s political terrain. Accounting credentials may impress on paper, but the Senate demands far more—political will, negotiation skills, and unwavering advocacy.

After more than two years of uninspiring representation, the Urhobo are paying the price. Dafinone’s silence, indecision, and misplaced priorities confirm that he is ill-suited for the role. He does not deserve a second term. The Urhobo need a senator who will fight relentlessly for their cause, ensure their voice is heard at the highest levels, and bring home tangible results—not excuses.

By Dr. Joseph Tedwins Emudainohwo writes from Abraka, Delta State

Anioma: A Place of Noble People

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By Kennedy Kanma

As a young man growing up in the defunct Bendel State in the 1970s and ‘80s, I read some of Professor Zulu Sofola’s seminal literary works, and I was greatly inspired. I dare say that her plays and essays left a lasting impact on my impressionable mind.

Today, I still remember Sofola’s works like Wedlock of the Gods, King Emene, The Sweet Trap, Old Wines Are Tasty and The Deer and the Hunter, among others. Back in the day, I had no inkling that Professor (Mrs.) Sofola hailed from Aniomaland. But I was in awe of her brilliance and the settings of her plays, especially King Emene and Wedlock of the Gods, which were obviously set in Anioma. I later, in adult life, learnt that Sofola was not only an Anioma daughter from Issele-Uku, she is also Nigeria’s first published female playwright, and Africa’s first female professor of theatre arts. What a shock!

But Sofola is not the only female scholar or woman of influence from Anioma. For instance, Ogwashi-Uku, my community, also gave the world Professor Tess Onwueme: playwright, scholar, environmentalist and professor of English, well-known for her socially engaging, politically conscious and environment-focused plays like Desert Encroaches, The Broken Calabash, Then She Said It, and Banana Leaves, among others. In diplomacy, global affairs, politics and public administration, Ogwashi-Uku, also produced Ambassador Raph Uwechue, one of Nigeria’s finest diplomats. And the list goes on and on.

I hasten to add that from the colonial era to the present day, the Anioma people’s most resounding display of courage, audacity, hope and heroism remains the famous and unforgettable Ekumeku liberation war, a proud chapter in our collective history. For 31 years, between 1883 and 1914, our people made history with Ekumeku as one of the most determined resistance movements against British colonial rule in Nigeria. It was an unparalleled guerilla struggle marked by great courage, secrecy and a deep commitment to freedom. Even though the movement was eventually subdued after over three decades, the bravery of the people of Aniomaland remains a shining example of an uncommon people who refused to surrender their freedom, land, culture and dignity to an invading force.

The truth, and this must be told, is that our heroes and their acts of heroism from time immemorial, are evident everywhere in every part of Aniomaland from Oshimili and Aniocha to Ika, Ukwuani and even in Igbanke, Edo State, where our people are also doing exploits, inspiring hope and proving that greatness knows no boundaries.

I decided to celebrate Anioma, her nobility and a few of her extraordinary women today because of the changing times. And I must say that I was motivated by this immortal saying of our people: “When the big oak tree that once stood tall and majestic, offering shade and shelter to all who came near, dies, where is the sucker that will replace that big tree?”

In all honesty, I have always been bothered by today’s bad politics, driven by greed and avarice. As we all know, unhealthy politics, plagues Delta North today in a way that does not represent who we are.
How long shall we continue to practice cash and carry politics of self-interest and privilege for a few at the expense of the common good?

As politicians, we must ask ourselves what example of integrity, vision, orderliness and selfless service we are truly setting for the young people who look up to us. Must politics still be defined by thuggery, forgery, underrepresentation, imposition, and violence even in this century when the world has become a global village?
Where is that noble spirit of service, empathy, humility, appreciative sympathy and quality representation that once defined the politics of old, especially in our part of Nigeria?
Your guess is as good as mine. But there could not have been a better time to reflect on posterity, and what we will leave behind as mortals who must one day, depart this earth.

I believe, and strongly too, that public service through politics is neither for advantage nor for personal aggrandizement. If you ask me, I insist, and this has always been my position, that politics is the highest form of public service, and every politician in public spaces must be constantly reminded of their duty to serve.

As I write, Iet me add that I am guided by the fact that true leadership is measured not by raw power held or great wealth, but by the lives positively impacted. And without fear of contradiction, let me state that the progress of any nation depends on the character and vision of its leaders.

A couple of days ago, I feted Nigerian youths on International Youth Day, celebrating their achievements and potential with joy and admiration. I was frank about the contributions of young people to Nigeria’s growth and development as a nation. But in doing so, I punctured the long-held and deceptive notion that young people are merely leaders of tomorrow. In truth, the youth we see, are also leaders of today, and as politicians, we must come to terms with that reality.

Again, I made haste to recognize and appreciate the invaluable contributions young Nigerians bring to the table of our national development. “On a day like this, I recognize the value, contributions and dreams of young people, particularly in Nigeria. I also salute the energy, creativity, courage and resilience of these young people today who are contributing their quota everywhere. And this is verifiable through their impact in various sectors. As we all know, our youthful population is driving change and making its mark in various fields of life, including education, technology, music, fashion, sports, literature, entrepreneurship, the arts and even the professions. Nigerian youths in foreign countries are also our veritable ambassadors, projecting the nation’s image beyond our shores, and rewriting all the ugly narratives about Nigeria into stories of hope, resilience and progress. And let me be clear: Nigerian youths are not just leaders of tomorrow; they are the hope and the real change-makers of today. Their great ideas and resourcefulness, I must confess, are reshaping our communities in many ways. And I am glad that they are injecting fresh perspectives into the discourse on politics and governance. Let me add that their talents are enriching our culture, and their courage, inspiring change and a new era of possibilities, progress and consciousness.”

For emphasis, I also addressed, in my goodwill message, the age-long issues of complacency, indifference, ignorance and lack of interest in politics, often ascribed to the Nigerian youth. As far as I am concerned, that belief is not entirely true. And I quote: “It is also gratifying to note that Nigerian youths are fully aware and very much alive to their responsibilities. Until very recently, the average young Nigerian never bothered much about politics and elections, but all that are changing, and very fast too. And we are all happy for these developments. Therefore, I can say with every sense of responsibility that young people now fully appreciate the consequences of electing ill-prepared and bad leaders. So, they are working hard with their informed choices, to break the cycle of poor representation in both the legislative and executive arms of government in Nigeria. They are not only conscious of party politics and political developments; they are also putting measures in place from their different corners of Nigeria, to ensure that votes count. Therefore, no one, no matter how highly placed or connected, can take the Nigerian youth for granted in today’s Nigeria. Even at the risk of sounding repetitive, let me state again that no one is oblivious of the remarkable contributions of young people in Nigeria today, both personally and collectively, to better our country. So, on this International Youth Day, I stand with them, and I will continue to support them as a they build the future and the common world we all deserve. Therefore, I urge them to remain steadfast, conscious and vigilant as we work and pray together for a new dawn that is already within a touching distance.”

These are hard facts about who our young people are, no matter how much we try to discountenance their relevance and the promise they hold for our country.

As we all know, what eventually becomes of a country depends on how it treats its young people and the next generation. And from our antecedents as a people, I believe we are too perceptive to discountenance or underestimate this worldview. Undoubtedly, this is the time to think about our young people, our dear country Nigeria, and the future we hope to leave for our children and generations yet unborn.

Kanma, a lawyer, entrepreneur and politician, writes from Ogwashi-Uku in Delta State.

Kennedy Kanma, Esq.

Dictator in NUJ! Churchill Oyowe Accused of Gagging Journalists, Expelling Critics from WhatsApp Group

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NUJ

By ENITAN ABEL JOHNGOLD 

Delta journalism has been rocked by a storm of outrage as the State Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Comrade Churchill Oyowe, stands accused of trampling on press freedom and running the council like a one-man dictatorship.

In a shocking display of intolerance, Oyowe last week went on a purge, expelling journalists who dared to criticize his administration from the union’s official WhatsApp group. His victims included respected veteran journalist and former Pointer editor, Julius Oweh; Federal Information Chapel chairman, Comrade Enitan Abel Johngold; and former NAWOJ chairperson, Comrade Patricia Gbemudu.

Their “crime”? Advising Oyowe that his action against the NUJ secretary, Comrade Victor Sorokwu — who is facing allegations of corruption — was unprofessional and a direct attack on freedom of expression.

But rather than listen, Oyowe reportedly “bared his fangs,” acting like a self-styled emperor. He suspended Oweh, Johngold, and Gbemudu — after already removing New Telegraph correspondent Dominic Adewole Igbekoyi and Radio Nigeria’s Oghenero Eghweree.

Outrage has since trailed his action. “This is absurd and ironical,” one furious member said. “Journalists criticize presidents, governors, and ministers every day, and the heavens don’t fall. Why should Churchill Oyowe, a mere council chairman, see himself as untouchable?”

The development has sparked an uproar across media circles, with calls mounting for the NUJ national leadership to intervene before Oyowe drags Delta journalism into outright tyranny.

Observers say his actions have exposed him as unfit for leadership. “If you cannot stand criticism,” one journalist quipped, “then resign. Journalism is not a nunnery where you play mother superior — it’s the beating heart of democracy.”

As the backlash intensifies, one truth is echoing across Delta NUJ: Churchill Oyowe has declared war on press freedom — and the press is ready to fight back.

Deltans Want More: Why Oborevwori’s Grassroots Touch Makes 2027 Contest Futile

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Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori

By ENITAN ABEL JOHNGOLD ORHERUATA, mnipr

A political support group under the aegis of *Deltans Want More* has declared that the 2027 governorship campaign against Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, would amount to a waste of time, money, and resources, given his sterling performance since assuming office.

Speaking in Jeremi Ughelli South Local Government Area, while addressing members and other party faithfuls cut across various communities, the Convener of the group, Olorogun Ese Kakor, urged Deltans across party lines to unite behind the Governor to enable him consolidate on his MORE Agenda and deliver even greater dividends of democracy to the people.

According to him, “Deltans have never had it this good. From massive infrastructural projects to reforms in education, health, and security, the Governor’s achievements in just two years are already campaigning for him. Anyone nursing the ambition for 2027 should wait until 2031.”

Olorogun Kakor listed some of Oborevwori’s key achievements, including:

Infrastructure: Completion and flag-off of multiple road dualisation projects across Asaba, Warri, Effurun, Ughelli, and other towns, alongside bridges and drainage systems to tackle flooding.

Education: Renovation of schools, provision of learning materials, and the take-off of new technical colleges to boost skills acquisition for youths.

Welfare: Prompt and regular payment of salaries and pensions, even amid national economic challenges.

Health & Security: Upgrading of health facilities across the state and strengthening of local security networks, which have restored peace to several crisis-prone communities.

Just today, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has flagged off the Delta State Widows Welfare Scheme, benefiting 10,000 widows across the state.

The scheme includes monthly pay, registration of the beneficiaries into the Delta State Contributory Health Scheme (DSCHS) for free medical treatment in their localities.

This initiative is part of the governor’s commitment to improving the welfare of widows in Delta State through financial support and empowerment packages.

Empowerment: Rollout of job creation and youth empowerment schemes under the MORE Agenda to cushion the effect of the economy and engage thousands of young Deltans productively.

He added that Governor Oborevwori’s “street credibility and grassroots connection” have been instrumental in resolving communal disputes that previously threatened peace and development in the state.

“Sheriff Oborevwori is not just governing; he is transforming Delta. His achievements are clear, his impact is felt, and his leadership is people-centered. Every true lover of Delta State should stand behind him,” Kakor declared.

The group maintained that the Governor’s steady delivery of his Renewed Hope for MORE Agenda was a proof that Delta State was on the path of sustainable growth, and deserved continuity beyond 2027.

Delta First Lady, DEMSMEDA Conclude 3-Day Creative Industry Empowerment for Rural Women

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The Office of the Wife of the Delta State Governor, Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori, in partnership with the Delta State Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency (DEMSMEDA), has concluded a three-day empowerment training programme for women in the creative industry across rural communities in the three senatorial districts of the state.

The initiative, the first in a series under the MORE CAP-UP project, is aimed at boosting entrepreneurial capacity among grassroots women in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s MORE inclusive economic development plan.

Declaring the programme open, the Governor’s wife, represented by the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Community and Social Development, Hon. Pat Ajudua, charged the beneficiaries to take the training seriously, describing them as specially selected women who must not only grow their businesses but also serve as role models in their communities.

Hon. Ajudua assured participants of the state government’s continued support, noting that DEMSMEDA will monitor and evaluate their progress. She also urged them to use their grants judiciously and commended Dr. Godwin Adolor and his team for effectively coordinating the training.

Executive Secretary of DEMSMEDA and lead resource person, Dr. Godwin Adolor, said the training focused on financial literacy and sustainability. He stressed that while financial empowerment was important, skills and knowledge were crucial for long-term business success. Dr. Adolor also lauded Deaconess Oborevwori’s compassion toward women in the state, urging participants to reciprocate through dedication and commitment to becoming employers of labour.

Financial expert and consultant, Mr. Charles Ojakovo, educated participants on the importance of integrity, creativity, and resilience in running successful enterprises. He also encouraged compliance with government regulations, avoidance of unapproved business locations, and resistance to reckless investments.

The sessions at the three cluster centres — Felix Ibru Secretariat, Asaba (Delta North), Isoko South Council Secretariat, Oleh (Delta South), and Ughelli (Delta Central) — featured interactive engagements where participants shared experiences, asked questions, and discussed business challenges.

The beneficiaries expressed gratitude to the Governor’s wife and the state government for what they described as a life-changing initiative.

Delta Wire Industries Seeks Stronger State Partnership to Boost Delta’s Industrial Growth

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By ENITAN ABEL JOHNGOLD ORHERUATA, mnipr 

Delta Wire Industries has reaffirmed its commitment to a robust partnership with the Delta State Government, pledging to drive economic growth, create jobs, and advance the administration’s MORE Agenda.

Managing Director/CEO, Mr. Osaro Abusomwan, made the appeal during an inspection visit by the Delta State Economic Management Team, led by the Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme. He urged the government to fulfill its obligations to the project, stressing that the company’s success would translate into significant socio-economic benefits for the state.

Taking the team on a tour of the facility, Mr. Abusomwan showcased the advanced machines and equipment already installed, noting that once fully operational, Delta Wire Industries will directly employ over 1,000 people and stimulate the local economy.

He revealed that the company plans to expand into the production of galvanized sections for the oil & gas, power, and telecoms sectors. Leveraging Delta’s abundant gas resources, and through a UJVA with the NNPC for gas distribution, the firm intends to establish special business units within the Kwale Free Trade Zone.

Sir Monday Onyeme commended the progress made at the facility and praised the company’s strategic growth plans. He assured the state’s unwavering support, emphasizing that Delta is open for business and ready to welcome investors committed to sustainable development.

“The right time to invest in Delta State is now,” Onyeme declared. “We are committed to ensuring this project’s success and attracting more like-minded investors to our state.”

NUJ SHOCKER: Delta Secretary Booted Out in Explosive Corruption Probe!

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Apostle Victor Sorokwu

By ENITAN ABEL JOHNGOLD ORHERUATA, mnipr

The Nigeria Union of Journalists has been rocked by a scandal as its National Executive Council (NEC) upheld the indefinite suspension of Delta State Council Secretary, Comrade Victor Sorokwu, over jaw-dropping allegations of cash theft, power abuse, and ethical breaches.

The NEC, meeting in Kano under NUJ President Comrade Abdullahi Alhassan Yahya, ordered Sorokwu to vacate his seat immediately, hand over every union property in his possession, and stay far from the Press Centre while investigators move in.

The bombshell petition — lodged by none other than the Press Centre’s own vendor — accuses the embattled official of draining union funds and running the council like a personal empire.

In a no-nonsense move, NEC is dispatching a three-man “hit squad” to Delta to dig deep, grill witnesses, and unravel the money trail before delivering its final hammer blow.

Victor Sorokwu

Union insiders say the scandal has left the Delta NUJ in turmoil, with members stunned at the scale of the allegations and bracing for more shocking revelations.

Bribery Scandal Hits Delta SUBEB: Contractors Cry Out Over Alleged Kickbacks

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Sheriff Oborevwori and Samuel Mariere

By Our Correspondent 

The Delta State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) is under a cloud of controversy as contractors handling school projects allege widespread bribery and extortion involving senior officials — with fingers pointed directly at the Board’s Chairman, Hon. Samuel Mariere.

Multiple contractors, speaking on condition of anonymity, accused top staff of the Department of Planning, Research and Statistics (DPRS) of demanding kickbacks ranging from 5% to 20% of contract sums — either before award or during project execution — crippling their ability to deliver jobs to standard.

“The exploitation starts from when you apply for the job, through the construction phase, and even before completion certificates are issued,” one contractor lamented. “Governor Sheriff Oborevwori pays strictly according to work done, but these illegal deductions make it hard to meet specifications.”

The Chairman’s personal secretary, Antonia Krenyo, and a senior DPRS officer, Engr. Sylvester Etetafia, were named as central players in the alleged scheme. Contractors claim both operate with impunity, reportedly shielded by their proximity to the Chairman.

“Mariere is very much aware — his secretary is part of the collection system,” another source alleged.

Repeated attempts to obtain comments from the accused officers were rebuffed, while Mariere declined to respond when approached.

Education stakeholders warn that unless the alleged rot is addressed, the state’s already fragile basic education infrastructure will continue to suffer, denying pupils the learning environment they deserve.

Sheriff Oborevwori and Samuel Mariere

OVL Foundation Trains 1,200 Delta Youths for Economic Independence in 9ja Youth Drive 2025

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By ENITAN ABEL JOHNGOLD ORHERUATA, mnipr

Over 1,200 young men and women in Delta State have graduated from an intensive empowerment programme under the OVL Foundation’s 9ja Youth Drive 2025, gaining practical skills designed to break the cycle of unemployment and foster self-reliance.

The initiative, held in commemoration of International Youth Day, is part of a nationwide campaign spanning Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones and targeting young people — particularly women and vulnerable groups — with high-demand vocational and digital training.

Speaking at the Delta State graduation ceremony, OVL Foundation’s Chief Executive Officer, Omobolanle Victor-Laniyan, described the programme as a catalyst for lasting change.

“Our vision is to equip Nigerian youths, especially women and children, with the tools and opportunities to live productive, economically independent lives. Every skill learned here is a door to a sustainable future,” she said.

Participants underwent hands-on training in digital literacy, vocational trades, catering, soap and paint production, makeup artistry, and gele tying. The event also featured a Talent and Innovation Showcase, where Group 8 emerged victorious, securing a ₦1 million prize to launch their business venture.

In addition to the grand prize, every graduate received starter packs, certificates of completion, and awards for excellence in their respective fields — a move organisers say is crucial for ensuring participants can immediately translate their training into income.

Omobolanle emphasised that the project’s success was made possible through strategic partnerships with local and international organisations, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

“Partnership is at the heart of sustainable development. Through collaboration, we are giving our youths not just skills, but the confidence to thrive,” she added.

The 9ja Youth Drive 2025 has been widely praised for its grassroots reach and alignment with International Youth Day’s global mission of spotlighting youth engagement for development. With its focus on skills, entrepreneurship, and empowerment, the programme continues to affirm the OVL Foundation’s role as a driving force for youth-led nation-building in Nigeria.

Pastor Docked in Asaba for Alleged Assault with Wheel Spanner, Granted ₦500,000 Bail

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Justice / Court

By ENITAN ABEL JOHNGOLD ORHERUATA, mnipr 

The Magistrate Court 1 in Asaba was thrown into a tense legal drama on Monday as Pastor Sunday Ogbogho of the Redeemed Christian Church of God was arraigned over an alleged violent assault on one Kenneth Orusi.

According to the charge sheet, the incident occurred on July 27, 2025, at No. 5 Elder Ediale Street, off Ibusa Road, Asaba. The prosecution alleged that Ogbogho struck Orusi on the head with a wheel spanner, inflicting bodily harm — an offence punishable under Section 355 of the Criminal Code.

When the charge was read, Ogbogho pleaded “not guilty”. His counsel, identified as Chris, informed the court that the defendant is a landlord in Asaba and presented a surety described as a Grade Level 17 officer.

The surety, who introduced himself as Engineer Pastor and Director of Operations at the Delta State Direct Labour Agency, assured the court of his availability throughout the trial. However, Magistrate expressed caution, citing past experiences where sureties working in “field-based” roles had proven difficult to trace after defendants jumped bail.

“When you take someone on bail, you are telling the court you will ensure they attend trial until the case is concluded. We have had situations where people vanish, and sureties claim they are working in the field. That will not be tolerated here,” the Magistrate warned.

After deliberation, the Magistrate admitted the defendant to bail in the sum of ₦500,000 with one surety in like sum. The surety must be a responsible citizen resident within the court’s jurisdiction, a civil servant not below Grade Level 12, and must present multiple official documents including an appointment letter, promotion letter, office ID, payslip, and national identity card or voter’s card. Additional requirements include sworn affidavits, residence verification, and passport photographs of both the surety and the defendant.

In a stern address, the Magistrate also issued a strong anti-corruption warning:

“In this court, justice is not for sale. Do not give money to anybody — whether court staff, someone claiming to know the magistrate, or even a lawyer — to influence justice. We do not accept money here. Do not tempt the court, and the court will not tempt you.”

The case was adjourned to August 25, 2025, for hearing.

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