Connect with us

News

Nigeria Working with Turkey for Safe Return of Smuggled Baby Gorilla

Published

on

Nigeria Working with Turkey for Safe Return of Smuggled Baby Gorilla

By: Michael Mike

The Federal Government said it is working closely with relevant Turkish authorities for the safe return of an endangered baby gorilla, which was intercepted at Istanbul Airport, Turkey, on December 22, 2024.

It was reported that the young gorilla, which was reported to have been smuggled from Nigeria and on transit to Bangkok, Thailand, was discovered by Turkish authorities during a routine inspection.

The trafficking of wildlife and especially endangered species is a criminal and illegal act which clearly violates both national and international laws, including the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). The baby gorilla is classified under CITES Appendix I, as critically endangered, and any trade in this species is strictly prohibited except under exceptional circumstances for conservation or scientific purposes.

To prevent such criminal acts, relevant law enforcement agencies, including the Federal Ministry of Environment, the Nigerian Agricultural Quarantine Service among others, are currently conducting an investigation to determine the origin of the smuggling attempt and hold those responsible accountable.

A statement on Saturday by the acting spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa assured that Nigeria’s government will enhance surveillance at the nation’s airports, seaports, and land borders to prevent future attempts and acts of illegal wildlife trafficking.

The Federal Government also commends the efforts of the Turkish authorities in intercepting this illegal trafficking, and directs the Embassy of Nigeria in Ankara to continue to interface with the host authorities to ensure the safe return of the baby gorilla to Nigeria.

In the statement, Nigeria reaffirmed its commitment to biodiversity conservation and the protection of endangered wildlife species in line with global environmental treaties, and would evolve proactive modalities to ensure that perpetrators of such illicit activities are met with the full force of the law.

Nigeria Working with Turkey for Safe Return of Smuggled Baby Gorilla

Continue Reading
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Crime

Police raids lead to arrest of 104 suspects in Abuja

Published

on

Police raids lead to arrest of 104 suspects in Abuja

By: Zagazola Makama

Police operatives in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) carried out successful raids across multiple criminal hotspots on April 23, resulting in the arrest of 104 suspects.

Sources told Zagazola Makama that the coordinated operation involved officers from Karshi, Kubwa, Kabusa, Nyanya, Lugbe, Utako, Maitama, Apo, Mpape, Karmo, Tungan Maje, and G/Lada Divisions.

During the raids, authorities recovered cutlasses, dried leaves suspected to be Indian hemp, and illicit drugs.

The arrested suspects, who have been profiled, are currently in custody, undergoing screening and interrogation. Those found to be involved in criminal activities will be charged to court.

Police raids lead to arrest of 104 suspects in Abuja

Continue Reading

Crime

Man stabs fellow mentally unstable person to death in Delta

Published

on

Man stabs fellow mentally unstable person to death in Delta

By: Zagazola Makama

A tragic incident occurred on April 22 in Aladja, Delta State, when Jerry David, a mentally unstable man, allegedly stabbed his fellow companion to death with a broken bottle.

Zagazola Makama understands that a violent altercation between two mentally unstable individuals in his house.

When security personnel arrived the scene discovered that Jerry David had stabbed his fellow resident multiple times on the left hand, rib, back of the head, and left shoulder, causing fatal injuries.

The victim, whose identity is still unknown, was confirmed dead from the injuries. The police evacuated the body and deposited it at Noble Mortuary in Owvian, pending autopsy.

Police sources say an investigation is underway, and efforts are being made to subject Jerry David to a mental evaluation to determine the appropriate course of action.

Man stabs fellow mentally unstable person to death in Delta

Continue Reading

News

Summit University Offa Matriculates 194 Students in Grand Ceremony

Published

on

Summit University Offa Matriculates 194 Students in Grand Ceremony

By: Michael Mike

Matriculation Ceremony in a colourful event held at the Alhaja Adiat Abegbe Makanjuola Lecture Theatre, officially welcoming 194 fresh students—comprising 103 males and 91 females—into its expanding academic community.

In his inspiring address, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Abiodun Musa Aibinu, congratulated the matriculating students and their families, describing the day as a defining moment that would remain etched in their memories. He commended the students for choosing an institution known for academic excellence, moral integrity, and innovation-driven education.

“This is not just a formal rite of passage,” Professor Aibinu said, “but the beginning of a journey that will shape your future and prepare you for a meaningful life of contribution to society.”

Highlighting the growth trajectory of the university since its academic debut in 2017, the Vice-Chancellor announced the successful expansion from two pioneer colleges to include the Kola Balogun College of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Engineering, the College of Innovation and Computing Technology, and the College of Postgraduate Studies. Students from these new colleges are matriculating for the first time this year, a testament to the institution’s evolution into a hub of emerging technologies and global academic relevance.

Further reinforcing the university’s mission to produce graduates who are both intellectually sound and socially responsible, Professor Aibinu shared that alongside their academic pursuits, students would be immersed in a unique developmental curriculum that integrates essential real-world competencies. These include practical exposure to financial responsibility, ethical leadership, sustainable energy practices, advanced digital technologies, entrepreneurship within academia, cultural heritage appreciation, and global citizenship infused with faith-based values.

Professor Aibinu cautioned the new students against deviating from the university’s code of conduct, reiterating Summit University’s firm stance against any form of social vice. He emphasised that the matriculation oath was a binding commitment to honour, discipline, and excellence, warning that breaches would attract serious consequences.

“As you take your oath today, remember that it comes with responsibilities. At Summit University, we maintain high moral and academic standards, and we expect nothing less from you,” he added.

He also used the occasion to express appreciation to the university’s leadership, proprietors, staff, and host community. Special thanks were extended to the Olofa of Offa, His Royal Majesty Oba Mufutau Gbadamosi, Esuwoye II, and prominent citizens of Offa for their unwavering support in building an institution that continues to position Offa as an emerging smart city and academic destination.

Professor Aibinu concluded by assuring the new students of the institution’s commitment to their growth and success, urging them to seize the unique opportunity before them and strive to embody the University’s motto—to shine like the sun.

Summit University Offa Matriculates 194 Students in Grand Ceremony

Continue Reading

Trending

Verified by MonsterInsights