By David Owei, Yenagoa.

The pro-Wike political group, the New Associates in Bayelsa, has applauded the Judiciary for not yielding to intimidation in the case involving its member, Ms Awudumu Reigneth.

Judicial logo

Reacting to Reigneth’s release after meeting her bail conditions, the convener and lead of New Associates, Georger Turnah, commended the Judiciary for demonstrating its strong independence in the face of intimidation.

Turnah, in a press statement signed by his media assistant, Kevin Loveday-Egbo, stated that Chief Magistrate Baitmizimo demonstrated exceptional courage.

‘’We would also like to commend Chief Magistrate Obiri Baitimizimo for her courage and boldness in ensuring justice, even in the face of obvious intimidation. The Bayelsa State Judiciary has once again demonstrated its independence and integrity by not yielding to the grand plan of Diri’s administration to keep Reigneth incarcerated as punishment for exercising her rights to free speech and expression. The courageous decision made by the magistrate to grant bail in the most liberal terms underscores the importance of a functional judiciary in safeguarding democracy, which is an exemplary high for the State Judiciary.’’

Turnah, while also commending Reigneth for ‘’unwavering courage and determination in the face of oppression’’ also applauded the professionalism and commitment of the legal team.

He however, expressed disappointment that” oppressive tactics and intimidation have become the hallmarks of the Diri-led prosperity administration’’ and implored the government to face serious issues of governance.

‘’As we celebrate Reigneth’s freedom, let us remain steadfast in our commitment to justice, equality, and democracy for all Bayelsans. Together, we will overcome the challenges posed by this current administration and build a state that reflects the hopes and aspirations of its people.

” We call on Governor Diri to focus on serious issues of governance, particularly the insecurity that is ravaging our State, rather than dissipating energy on targeting perceived enemies and wasting public funds on political battles. It is time to put the best interests of Bayelsans first.’’

EFCC Arrests 17 Suspected Internet Fraudsters in Ilorin

By Our Reporter
In its bid to flushout internet raudsters in Kwara state,operatives of the Ilorin Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC have arrested 17 suspected internet fraudsters in coordinated sting operations in Ilorin and Ifelodun Local Government Area of the state.

In a statement by the Agency’s  head, Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewole in ilorin on wednesday, the suspects were rounded up at Asa Dam, Al-Hikmah University area and Gaa-Odota areas of Ilorin and in Ganmo and Amoyo areas of Ifelodun Local Government Area of the state.

According to hin the arrests which took place on Tuesday, May 13, 2025 followed actionable intelligence that linked the suspects to fraudulent internet activities in the state.

Items recovered from them upon arrest include three luxury vehicles, high-end mobile phones and laptop computers.

The latest arrests came on the heels of that of last week that involved 47 suspects, picked up in Ilorin and Ifelodun LGA on the basis of intelligence that exposed their fraudulent internet activities.The suspects will be arraigned in court upon the conclusion of investigations.