News Update

February 11, 2025: OMALICHA NEWS UPDATE

Imo Residents Decry Rising Insecurity, Urge Government Action

Residents of Imo State have expressed concerns over rising insecurity in the region, calling on the government and security agencies to take urgent action to protect the people. Speaking to Omalicha FM, many residents lamented the increasing cases of killings, kidnappings, and other forms of violent crimes that have left them living in fear.

In recent months, news reports have been dominated by incidents of abductions and assassinations, forcing many to alter their daily routines. Owerri, once known for its vibrant nightlife, has become a shadow of its former self as people now avoid staying out late for safety reasons.

One resident, Chika Okafor, told Omalicha FM, that “life in Imo State is no longer the same. We cannot move around freely without fear of being attacked. The government must act before things get worse.”

Another resident, Amaka Nwosu, expressed frustration over what she described as a lack of decisive action from the authorities. “Every day, we hear of another person being kidnapped or killed. We need more security presence and proactive measures to tackle this crisis,” she said.

The residents are calling on the state and federal governments, as well as security agencies, to intensify efforts in combating crime and restoring peace in the state. They urge authorities to deploy more security personnel, strengthen intelligence gathering, and implement lasting solutions to the insecurity.

Although the government has repeatedly assured citizens of its commitment to addressing the security challenges, many residents remain skeptical, insisting that urgent and visible action is needed to restore confidence and safeguard lives and property.

 Federal High Court Indefinitely Adjourns Nnamdi Kanu’s Trial

The Federal High Court in Abuja has indefinitely adjourned the trial of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), after he refused to be tried before Justice Binta Nyako.

Justice Nyako made the decision on Monday after Kanu insisted that his case be transferred to a court in the South-East. Kanu had on September 24, 2024, requested that Justice Nyako recuses herself, citing a lack of confidence in her handling of the case.

Following his request, Justice Nyako stepped down and referred the case file to Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho, for reassignment. However, Justice Tsoho later returned the case to Nyako, arguing that, given the prolonged history of the matter since 2015, she was best suited to continue handling it.

Kanu’s trial had been stalled since Nyako’s initial recusal, but the Federal Government issued a hearing notice summoning him to appear on February 10, 2025. Upon his appearance, Kanu strongly objected to facing trial under Nyako, insisting she no longer had jurisdiction over the case.

Nnamdi Kanu Questions Court

Justice Nyako clarified that her recusal was not accepted by the Chief Judge, leading to the case file being returned to her. With Kanu maintaining his stance, the court adjourned proceedings indefinitely.

 IGP Warns Police Officers Against Carrying Rifles in Civilian Clothing, Rights Violations

The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has issued a strict warning to officers against carrying rifles while dressed in civilian attire and engaging in human rights violations.

In a statement released on Monday by Force Public Relations Officer ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, Egbetokun gave the directive during a virtual meeting with senior police managers at the Force Headquarters.

The IGP highlighted a surge in complaints about human rights abuses received through official channels, prompting the need for immediate corrective action.

He cautioned that any further violations would attract severe consequences and urged officers to uphold professionalism, avoid misconduct, and adhere to proper dressing standards.

 NLC Condemns Governors for Abandoning States Amid Economic Hardship

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has criticized state governors who neglect their responsibilities and spending more time in Abuja while citizens endure hardship.

NLC President Joe Ajaero made the remarks during a town hall meeting with workers at the NLC Secretariat in Lokoja, Kogi State. The meeting was organized to allow workers to voice their concerns and present demands, which the NLC leadership pledged to convey to the state governor.

Ajaero noted that during visits to five different zones, governors were consistently absent, having traveled to Abuja. He expressed frustration over the impact of rising living costs on workers and warned that any government move to increase telecom tariffs would worsen their struggles.

Despite challenges in engaging state leaders, Ajaero assured workers that the NLC would continue to push for their demands, emphasizing that only one out of the five governors visited was available to address workers’ concerns.

Bishop Decries Impact of Economic Downturn on Church Attendance

The Archbishop of Ibadan Province, Church of Nigeria Anglican Communion, Dr. Williams Aladekugbe, has expressed concern over the impact of Nigeria’s economic downturn on church attendance and offerings.

Speaking in Ibadan, over the weekend, Aladekugbe highlighted how the removal of fuel subsidies has deepened financial struggles, making it difficult for many families to attend church or contribute financially.

He noted that a cleric even called on President Bola Tinubu to address the crisis. The bishop emphasized that in the past, Nigerians protested unfavorable economic policies, and similar demonstrations continue today.

Urging religious leaders to support struggling citizens, Aladekugbe stressed the need for intensified sermons and teachings to sustain faith during these difficult times. He also warned against fear and despair, advocating for a stronger reliance on faith to seek divine intervention.

New Visa Restrictions on Nigerians by Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia has imposed new visa restrictions on Nigeria and 13 other countries, limiting them to single-entry visas valid for only 30 days. The other countries are Algeria, Bangladesh, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iraq, Jordan, Morocco, Pakistan, Sudan, Tunisia, and Yemen.

The policy affects tourists, business travelers, and those visiting family members but does not apply to applicants for Hajj, Umrah, diplomatic, or residency visas.

Saudi authorities cited the misuse of multiple-entry visas as the primary reason for the change, noting that some travelers used long-term visas to stay in the country illegally or participate in Hajj without proper authorization.

The Saudi government enforces a strict Hajj quota system for each country, and unauthorized pilgrims have been blamed for contributing to overcrowding during the annual pilgrimage.

World Cup Qualifiers: Fears Over Lookman

Super Eagles handlers have expressed their joy over the return to fitness of star winger Ademola Lookman.

The Atalanta forward has resumed training with his Italian club after recovering from a knee injury sustained in January.

Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle and his staff are hopeful that Lookman, the reigning African Footballer of the Year, will be available for the crucial World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe.

If you have an eyewitness report, reach out to our news desk at on +234 0806 802 1774; info@omalichamedia.com