WE HAVE MOHBAD’S BODY IN MORTUARY–POLICE
The remains of late musician Ilerioluwa Aloba, commonly known as Mohbad, have been placed at the mortuary, according to Nigerian police. This followed the conclusion of the autopsy on his remains, which was exhumed in the state’s Ikorodu region on Thursday. However, contrary to popular belief, the remains have been placed at the mortuary, according to the Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin, in a phone chat with PUNCH’s Correspondent on Friday.“It’s at the mortuary,” Hundeyin replied. The Lagos State Police Command stated on Thursday that an autopsy on the late singer Mohbad’s remains had been completed and that his body had been placed at the morgue.
Suspect leaps through court window and flees after remand order
At the Ondo State Magistrate Court in Odigbo, the capital of the Odigbo Local Government Area of the state, it was a dramatic scene when a defendant, Segun Akala, fled the courthouse after the magistrate ordered his remand. Akala was arraigned before the court on one count of alleged theft, according to information gathered. A source in the court stated, “As soon as the magistrate, D. O. Ogunfuyi, ordered his remand, the defendant, handcuffed, took off running, leapt out the court’s window, and hid in a nearby bush. It required the intervention of police officers within the court area to apprehend and return him to court. Akintan Akintade was alleged to have lost a motor saw chain and pullover clothing worth N336,000 to the defendant. Earlier, the Police Prosecutor, Usifo James, informed the court that the offense was committed on May 27, 2023, on Aipon Road, Via Odigbo, Ondo State. According to the prosecutor, the offense violates Section 390 (9) of the Criminal Code, Chapter 37 of the Laws of Ondo State, Nigeria, 2006. However, the defendant pled not guilty to the charge brought against him. The prosecutor requested a postponement so he could review the case file and prepare his witnesses for trial, while the defense attorney, Mr. Rufus Omotayo, asked the court to grant parole to the defendant. In his ruling, Chief Magistrate Ogunfuyi granted the defendant parole in the amount of N100,000 with two sureties in the same amount. He remanded the defendant to the Okitipupa Correctional Centre pending the fulfillment of his parole conditions and adjourned the case until June 23, 2023.
CBN Appoints New Board of Directors for Keystone Bank to Drive Growth and Stability
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has reconstituted the board of directors at Keystone Bank Limited, appointing Lady Ada Chukwudozie as the new board chairman, alongside five non-executive directors and two executive directors. The move is part of a strategy to bolster the bank’s operations and ensure sustained business growth. Keystone Bank’s Managing Director, Hassan Imam, expressed confidence that the appointees’ extensive experience would enhance the bank’s corporate governance and service delivery, positioning it for future opportunities.
OAU Research Group Urges NCC to Release Telecom Competition Report for Enhanced Transparency and Innovation
The Pervasive and Mobile Computing Research Group (PMCRG) at Obafemi Awolowo University’s Africa Centre of Excellence (ACE) has called on the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to release its long-awaited report on competition within the telecommunications sector. The report, conducted by PwC in 2022, is expected to provide key insights into infrastructure sharing and market dynamics. Prof. Adeniran Oluwaranti, head of the PMCRG, emphasized that the release would support academic research, policy development, and drive innovation in Nigeria’s telecom industry.
Governor Fintiri Calls for Calm Amid Witchcraft-Related Crisis in Adamawa, Three Killed and Homes Burned
Adamawa State Governor, Ahmadu Fintiri, has urged peace following a violent outbreak over witchcraft accusations in Lamurde local government, which left three dead and many homes destroyed. Governor Fintiri, represented by his deputy, Professor Kaletapwa Farauta, warned that the government would not tolerate lawlessness and called on traditional rulers and youths to prevent further escalation. Authorities have deployed security forces, and investigations are ongoing, with several victims receiving medical treatment for gunshot wounds.
Ex-Kogi Governor Yahaya Bello Leaves EFCC Office Without Interrogation Amid N80.2bn Fraud Allegations
Former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello has exited the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) headquarters after voluntarily reporting to address allegations of an N80.2 billion fraud. Despite previous efforts to summon Bello, the EFCC did not interrogate him during his visit. The former governor was accompanied by his successor, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo.
Cristiano Ronaldo Showcases Nigerian Afrobeat Sensation Asake’s Hit Song in Latest Instagram Post
Portuguese football icon Cristiano Ronaldo has embraced Nigerian culture in his latest Instagram video, featuring the popular Afrobeat track “Active” by Nigerian artist Asake. In the clip, Ronaldo is seen playing padel tennis while the energetic collaboration between Asake and Travis Scott plays in the background, further highlighting Afrobeat’s growing global influence.
Two Traders Dead, 27 Hospitalised Amid New Gbagi Market Demolition Crisis in Ibadan
Two traders have lost their lives and 27 others are hospitalised following the demolition of shops at the New Gbagi International Market in Ibadan, Oyo State. The New Gbagi Petty Traders Association has called on the Olubadan of Ibadanland and Governor Seyi Makinde to intervene and halt the ongoing demolition, which has devastated their livelihoods. In response, the Olubadan urged patience and peaceful resolution of the crisis, emphasizing the importance of maintaining peace in Ibadanland.
Olubadan Calls for National Law to Restore Traditional Rulers’ Role in Governance
The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Akinloye Olakulehin, has called for the enactment of laws by the National Assembly to reinstate the role of traditional rulers in governance. Speaking during a visit from the Soun of Ogbomosoland, Oba Afolabi Ghandi Olaoye, the Olubadan emphasized the close ties between Ibadan and Ogbomoso and highlighted the importance of traditional rulers in serving the people. He urged the federal government to restore the dignity and influence of traditional institutions, which played vital roles before the colonial era.
Emmanuel Amuneke Backs Ademola Lookman for CAF Player of the Year After Stellar Performances
Former Super Eagles winger Emmanuel Amuneke has endorsed Ademola Lookman as a top contender for the next CAF Player of the Year award. Amuneke praised Lookman’s impressive rise, highlighting his key role in Atalanta’s Coppa Italia run and his standout Europa League hat-trick that secured a 3-0 victory over Bayer Leverkusen. Lookman’s stellar form continued with the Super Eagles, earning him a spot in the 30-man Ballon d’Or shortlist as the only African nominee. Amuneke expressed optimism for Lookman’s potential and emphasized the importance of supporting Nigerian players.
Wes Brown Hints at Possible Cristiano Ronaldo Return to Manchester United
Former Manchester United defender Wes Brown has expressed hope that Cristiano Ronaldo could make a return to Old Trafford in some capacity. Despite the disappointing end to Ronaldo’s second stint with the club, Brown believes the Portuguese star’s legacy remains intact, and a future role at United—whether as a player or otherwise—shouldn’t be ruled out. Brown reflected on Ronaldo’s impact at United, stating that despite the fallout with manager Erik ten Hag, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner’s contributions to the club are unforgettable.
Jorginho Insists Arsenal Unfazed by Haaland’s Scoring Streak Ahead of City Clash
Arsenal midfielder Jorginho has dismissed concerns about Manchester City striker Erling Haaland’s prolific goal-scoring form, expressing confidence in the Gunners’ preparation for their upcoming Premier League match against City. Despite Haaland’s impressive tally of 99 goals in 103 appearances for City, Jorginho emphasized Arsenal’s focus on their own game and praised the team’s improved mentality and resilience. Arsenal, who finished second in the league last season, are set to face City at the Etihad following their European campaign opener.