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NCC Orders Telcos to Reactivate Blocked Lines Amid Protests: NIN Update

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NCC Orders Telcos to Reactivate Blocked Lines Amid Protests: NIN Update
NCC Orders Telcos to Reactivate Blocked Lines Amid Protests: NIN Update

Millions of phone users had their lines blocked due to not linking their SIM cards with National Identification Numbers (NINs). This move sparked widespread speculation that it was a government tactic to suppress an upcoming protest.

On Monday, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) instructed telecom companies to reactivate all lines that had been blocked for NIN non-compliance. The directive was issued to address the issues caused by the disconnections.

Reuben Muoka, a spokesperson for the NCC, stated that the decision to restore the blocked lines was influenced by the significant problems these blockages created. Many users faced disruptions over the weekend, leading to concerns that the government was trying to hinder a planned #EndBadGovernance protest. This protest, driven by dissatisfaction with economic conditions and hunger, is scheduled for August.

Human rights lawyer Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa criticized the government’s actions, suggesting they were intended to impede the protest, which was primarily organized online. He called for the NCC’s intervention.

The NCC confirmed that major telecom operators, including MTN, Airtel, and Globacom, had blocked lines not linked with NINs. Since the start of the NIN-SIM linkage initiative in 2020, the NCC has extended deadlines several times, with the latest deadline set for July 31, 2024.

Despite these extensions, many lines remain unlinked. The NCC emphasized that the NIN-SIM linkage policy is crucial for national security and accurate SIM ownership records. It also helps protect users’ identities and supports a robust digital economy.

In light of the challenges caused by the blockages, the NCC has ordered all operators to reactivate the disconnected lines temporarily. This measure will give users a chance to complete their NIN verification. The public is urged to promptly link their NINs to their SIMs to avoid further issues.

As of December 2023, Nigeria had over 224 million mobile subscribers. MTN leads with more than 87 million subscribers, holding 38.79% of the market share. Globacom and Airtel each have 61 million subscribers, while 9mobile has 13.9 million users. The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) reported that over 105 million NINs have been issued in the past four years.

 

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Source: ChannelsTv

Last Updated on July 29, 2024 by news

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US Marshals Offer $25,000 Reward for Nigerian Man Wanted in Child Murder Case

US Marshals Offer $25,000 Reward for Nigerian Man Wanted in Child Murder Case

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US Marshals Offer $25,000
US Marshals Offer $25,000 Reward for Nigerian Man Wanted in Child Murder Case

A Nigerian man wanted for murder and child abuse charges is now on the U.S. Marshals Service’s 15 Most Wanted list. The US Marshals are offering a $25,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of Olalekan Abimbola Olawusi, 48, who is accused of fleeing the United States after the death of his infant son from severe abuse-related injuries.

According to official reports, Providence Police charged Olawusi with first-degree child abuse on April 20, 2017, after his 3-month-old son was found with multiple injuries. Emergency responders discovered the infant in cardiac arrest on April 3, 2017, at a Providence residence, leading to resuscitation efforts at the hospital.

Medical examinations revealed 18 distinct injuries in different stages of healing, indicating prolonged abuse. The child later died after months on life support due to severe injuries, including skull fractures, a subdural hematoma, and fractures across the body.

After his initial arrest, Olawusi was released but fled the country on June 20, 2017, via JFK Airport in New York, reportedly using his Nigerian passport. Authorities believe he may be hiding in Nigeria with family assistance, posing potential risk to other children. In response to the infant’s death on October 31, 2017, charges against Olawusi escalated to first-degree murder.

Ronald L. Davis, Director of the U.S. Marshals Service, expressed grave concerns: “Olawusi committed heinous crimes against a child and is now evading justice. His inclusion on our 15 Most Wanted list underscores the priority of capturing him to ensure community safety.” The USMS collaborates closely with local and federal law enforcement and leads task forces that apprehended over 73,000 fugitives in 2023.

Described as 5 feet 8 inches tall, with black hair and brown eyes, Olawusi may be using the alias Olekun Olawusi. Anyone with information on his location is urged to contact U.S. Marshals at 1-877-WANTED2 or via the USMS Tips App.

Since its creation in 1983, the 15 Most Wanted list has helped capture over 250 high-profile fugitives who pose serious risks to public safety.

Source: ChannelsTv

Last Updated on November 13, 2024 by news

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NDLEA Arrests 38 Suspects and Seizes Over 226kg of Drugs in October: A Major Victory in Niger State’s Anti-Drug Fight

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NDLEA Arrests 38 Suspects
NDLEA Arrests 38 Suspects and Seizes Over 226kg of Drugs in October: A Major Victory in Niger State’s Anti-Drug Fight

NDLEA Arrests 38 Suspects: In a significant anti-drug operation throughout October, the Niger State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) made strides in tackling drug trafficking and drug abuse within the state. With a focused approach, the agency recorded multiple drug arrests and seizures, marking a notable milestone in its ongoing mission to maintain a drug-free society.

According to a statement by Niger State NDLEA Commandant Shehu Godabawa, the NDLEA successfully apprehended 38 individuals across various regions within the state. These suspects were involved in activities including drug trafficking, possession of illegal substances, and drug dealing. The agency’s crackdown resulted in the confiscation of 226.845 kilograms of illicit drugs, underscoring its commitment to reducing drug supply in Niger State.

Among the arrested suspects, eleven were formally charged in court, facing allegations of illegal drug possession and trafficking. These legal actions represent the NDLEA’s dedication to ensuring strict enforcement and deterring others from engaging in drug-related activities.

NDLEA Arrests 38 Suspects: Beyond its enforcement actions, the NDLEA also focused on public awareness and education throughout October. The command conducted 37 awareness programs targeting communities, schools, and public gatherings across the state. These initiatives are aimed at educating the public—especially the youth—about the severe health and social impacts of drug abuse.

Commandant Godabawa emphasized that the NDLEA remains committed to curbing drug demand and promoting safe, informed communities. He urged community members to collaborate by reporting suspicious drug-related activities to support the agency’s anti-drug mission.

The NDLEA’s October actions demonstrate its steadfast dedication to making Niger State safer by curbing the illegal drug trade and fostering awareness to prevent substance abuse.

Source: ChannelsTv

Last Updated on November 5, 2024 by news

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Tinubu Is Not T-Pain: He Understands Nigerians’ Struggles – Onanuga

Tinubu Is Not T-Pain: He Understands Nigerians’ Struggles – Onanuga

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Tinubu Is Not T-Pain
Tinubu Is Not T-Pain: He Understands Nigerians’ Struggles – Onanuga

Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga has emphasized that President Bola Tinubu is not indifferent to the struggles faced by Nigerians. He stated that Tinubu genuinely feels the pain of Nigerians and is committed to leading the country toward brighter days ahead.

Onanuga made these remarks during an interview on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, addressing the derogatory nickname “T-Pain” that has circulated on social media. He clarified that Tinubu’s intention is not to inflict pain on citizens but to repair the economy and alleviate their struggles.

The spokesman acknowledged that the president is aware of the challenges Nigerians are currently enduring. However, he noted that Tinubu does not engage with social media, and thus is unaware of being labeled as T-Pain. Onanuga stated, “Some people have also responded and called the President a different name. So, as far as I am concerned, it is a non-issue.”

Onanuga continued, “Some people, out of mischief, just say somebody is a T-Pain; he (Tinubu) is not T-Pain.” He stressed that the President remains dedicated to addressing the economic difficulties faced by the populace, ensuring that they receive necessary relief.

Despite the nation grappling with soaring food inflation and a significant rise in energy prices, Onanuga pointed out that Nigeria is experiencing economic growth. He highlighted that revenues have increased even amid rising costs. Many citizens attribute the current hardships to the removal of petrol subsidies and the unification of foreign exchange rates, which have contributed to escalating living expenses.

Nigerians have expressed their dissatisfaction through two major protests, urging the Tinubu administration to reconsider its policies. While citizens have called for a reversal of these reforms, the government has maintained that the changes are essential for the nation’s economic stability.

In summary, Bayo Onanuga’s statements reaffirm that President Bola Tinubu is deeply aware of the pain of Nigerians and is actively working towards improving their situation through economic reforms.

Source: ChannelsTv

Last Updated on October 28, 2024 by news

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