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News_Naija

Easter Tragedy: Gombe Donates N2m Each To Bereaved Families

Governor Muhammadu Yahaya of Gombe State, on Wednesday, announced a donation of N2m each to the families of the five persons who lost their lives during an Easter procession on Monday. The fatal incident claimed the lives of five persons leaving 21 others hospitalised. Yahaya announced during a condolence visit to Billiri Local Government Area. Speaking at the palace of the Mai Tangle Danladi Maiyamba, the governor expressed heartfelt sympathy, describing the incident as deeply saddening. He prayed for the repose of the souls of the departed and speedy recovery for the injured. Yahaya said, “No right-thinking individual would ever wish such a tragedy upon others. “This is one of those moments that reminds us of the fragility of life and the ultimate will of the Almighty God, which no man can question.” He also pledged to cover the medical bills of those currently receiving treatment in hospitals across the state. Yahaya lamented that this incident marked the third of such tragedies in recent times, following accidents during both Christian and Muslim celebrations. He consequently called on security agencies and community leaders to draw lessons and implement better strategies to prevent future occurrences. He cautioned against any acts of lawlessness in the wake of such tragedies, emphasising the need to uphold peace and lawful conduct. “While we grieve, we must remain law-abiding. Resorting to self-help or taking the law into one’s hands will only worsen the situation, and security agencies will not stand by and allow such actions to go unchecked,” the governor cautioned. In response to an appeal by the Chairman of the Gombe State chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Rev. Fr. Alphonsus Shinga, for the release of those arrested in the aftermath of the incident, the governor instructed the Commissioner of Police to fast-track the review process and ensure their prompt release. The governor affirmed his administration’s commitment to sustaining peace in the state. He assured of the safety of all residents, regardless of religious or ethnic background. Speaking further, he also urged organisers of public/ religious processions to always liaise with relevant authorities and adhere to laid-down procedures to ensure the safety of participants. In his remarks, Rev. Shinga thanked the Governor for his swift intervention and generosity, while also reiterating the Christian community’s commitment to peace. Also speaking, the Mai Tangle, Dr Danladi Sanusi Maiyamba, said the Easter accident shook the entire Tangale Chiefdom but was quick to acknowledge the proactive steps taken by the state government which, he said, helped to prevent further escalation of tensions in the area. One of the grieving family representatives, Bakari Bawasa, expressed deep appreciation to the governor for the financial support and care shown during their difficult time. Earlier, the Chairperson of Billiri LGA, Hon. Eglah Idris, praised the governor’s empathetic leadership and swift response, describing it as a “balm of comfort” to the grieving community. “Your Excellency, your visit and timely intervention reflect your compassionate leadership, deep empathy, and commitment to peace and justice in Gombe State. We are truly grateful for your constant support, especially in our times of need,” she said. Meanwhile, the Tangale Community Development Association has urged the state government to probe the death of the five persons including three females and two males. TCDA in a press statement signed by the Chairman Comrade Danladi Bako, blamed the security agencies for not providing adequate security to the procession. “The Christian Association of Nigeria had written to get approval for the procession but the security agencies were only watching while the tragic event occurred. If they provided security they should be at the front and behind the procession,” he said. Bako faulted police claim that the crash was a result of brake failure. He added, “As for the laughable statement from the police, we have the following observations. Considering video evidence that contradicts the police statement, we hereby submit that their bias against the victims is clear. “First, the statement insinuated that the truck veered off the road due to a brake failure. This lie was the crux of the press release by the Gombe State Police Command, via the PRO. “On the contrary, video evidence shows otherwise. The vehicle drove straight into the unsuspecting celebrants from behind them. The driver was inside the truck, the driver did not tap on his horn to draw attention, and the vehicle came to a complete stop on the main road after mauling the victims. “Secondly, the statement by the police states that “The vehicle tragically ran into the crowd, including some Muslim residents who were observing from the roadside,” is a blatant lie aimed at creating acrimony between Christians and Muslims. No Muslim was affected in this incident. The vehicle ran into the people in procession. Some pictures and videos shows what happened. “Thirdly, questions regarding the culpability of the police must be addressed. The Easter Monday Procession is an annual event in Billiri town; despite that fact, each year the police division in Billiri is notified about the event – this year was no different. So, we ask, where were the police officers on traffic watch? Why did the police at the state and zonal levels repeat the same statement about mechanical/brake failure before conducting any investigation? How did the police know it had anything to do with brakes? If the police want to explore, we will provide video evidence that counters their position (some videos have already gone viral on social media). Please, stop treating us as fools.”

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News_Naija

Kwara Seeks Identification Of Lifeless Body Recovered From Asa River

The Kwara State Ministry of Environment is seeking formal identification of the lifeless body of a man found floating on the Asa River in Ilorin, the state capital. Men of the State Fire Service on Tuesday night, recovered the corpse of the man, said to be about 45 years old. The discovery was in following up on a report of the incident by officials of the state Ministry of Environment. The ministry officials had alerted the Fire Service to the discovery of the body floating on the Asa River. The spokesperson for the State Fire Service, Hassan Adekunle, in a statement on Wednesday, said, upon receiving the report, a team of firefighters deployed to the scene, successfully retrieved the body from the river. “The incident was reported by officials from the Kwara state Ministry of Environment, who arrived at our operational centre in a vehicle with registration number 17B-D4KW. They discovered the body floating on the river and immediately alerted the Fire Service. “Upon receiving the report, a team of firefighters was swiftly deployed to the scene to prevent potential environmental hazards. The crew successfully retrieved the body from the river. “The recovered body was subsequently handed over to the Ministry of Environment, which is now awaiting formal identification and claims from the deceased’s family,” the statement read. The statement quoted the director of Kwara State Fire Service, Falade Olumuyiwa, as urging the people of the state to prioritise safety and be more careful in their day-to-day activities. He particularly warned parents to desist from sending underage children to fetch water in domestic wells.”

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News_Naija

Kano Healing Water Site Demolished Over Fraud Fears Hisbah

The Kano Hisbah Board has given reasons for the demolition of a “healing water” site located in Hotoron Arewa, within the Kano metropolis. The site has attracted thousands of residents and visitors who believe in the site’s purported spiritual healing powers. There were particularly widespread claims that the site contains the footprint of Prophet Mohammad. The site consequently drew large crowds of Muslim faithful after a muddy imprint resembling a footprint purportedly appeared on the ground, with water seeping from the spot. Rumours quickly spread that the site contained “Holy Water” and bore the footprint of the Prophet, prompting people to visit in search of spiritual healing and blessings. The board said it acted swiftly after receiving reports of mass gatherings and unverified spiritual claims. Confirming the demolition to The PUNCH on Wednesday, the Director-General of the board, Dr Abba Sufi, said the demolition took place on Monday. “The place was demolished on Monday after we discovered that some disgruntled elements are using the place to mislead desperate patients seeking treatment,” he said. He stressed that the board would not allow anyone to exploit the vulnerable under the guise of offering spiritual healing. Sufi also cautioned residents of Kano and visitors from outside the state to disregard any claims about the sanctity or healing powers of the location. According to him, the site had become a platform for exploitation and fraud, prompting the board to take action.

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Futbol

Uefa Women's Nations League: Wales v Denmark Venue: Cardiff City Stadium, Cardiff Date: Friday, 4 April Kick-off: 19:15 BST Coverage: Live on BBC One Wales, BBC iPlayer, BBC Radio Wales and Radio Cymru, the BBC Sport website and app, plus live text commentary Highlights: S4C and iPlayer, 21:50 GMT and later on demand. Wales boss Rhian Wilkinson says her side have the talent to cause an upset against any nation ahead of their first major tournament appearance. Wales, who have qualified for Euro 2025, continue their Nations League campaign as they entertain Denmark - ranked 12th in the world - at the Cardiff City Stadium. After a spirit-lifting 1-1 draw with sixth ranked Sweden in Wrexham that followed a 1-0 defeat in Italy, Wilkinson says Wales will never under her management focus primarily on limiting the opposition. "The word is always consistency. On their day this team can beat anyone, I truly believe that," she told BBC Sport Wales. "There is always some luck involved, but you also make your luck. Against Italy we lost 1-0 but left frustrated and we tied with Sweden and could have won. "Now we go again. I am proud of two strong performances, but the true measure of a team is how you go back-to-back-to-back, continuously putting out strong performances. This is the next test of that." Wilkinson feels Wales are continuing to grow more comfortable at the level they find themselves at, with Nations League A status and qualifying for Euro 2025 meaning they play nations in the world's top 20 in nine successive games this year. "Wales has to be Wales, we are not trying to be anything else other than ourselves and there will be no team ranked lower than us, that we are playing. "That's just one measure. If Wales perform to our levels, I honestly believe the opposition are the ones who have to look out for us." Wilkinson says she will continue to rotate her squad, having made five changes for the Sweden game from the team that lined-up against Italy. "Every coach has a different philosophy of that (rotation) but from day one I told the players I would be doing that, I am a coach that likes to make changes," she said. "I am fairly clear on my line-up, but all the way up to the Euros and into the tournament, injuries will happen because this is a contact sport. "If I do not give my players opportunities to prove what they can deliver for me, then why am I bringing them? That's not what it is about. We have 23 players and all 23 need to be ready to play." Wilkinson was enthusiastic about the news that Wales will jointly host the 2035 Women's World Cup. The United Kingdom is set to host the 2035 Women's World Cup as the sole "valid" bidder for the tournament, Fifa president Gianni Infantino says. England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland submitted a joint expression of interest in March to hold the World Cup across the home nations. Under Fifa rotation rules, the tournament must be in Europe or Africa. "It's obviously incredible news, really exciting. As a Canadian who hosted (the women's World Cup) in 2015, I know what hosting a big tournament like that can do for a country," WIlkinson said. "It becomes that much more visible and knowing how the women's game is currently moving, knowing this is such a catalyst time for us in Wales, it comes at the perfect time. "But equally, it is that far down the line I can just put it over there (in the distance). But that it is coming is something we are looking forward to." Wales and Everton midfielder Hayley Ladd also spoke excitedly about the tournament heading to the UK. "It's great for Wales to have the elite level of women's football in Wales," she said. "Hopefully in 10 years the game is going to be in an amazing place." Wales are still without long-term injury absentee Sophie Ingle, their former captain and key midfielder as she continues her rehabilitation from a ACL surgery. Striker Kayleigh Barton, who scored Wales' goal against Sweden in Wrexham last month, also misses out through injury after withdrawing from Wilkinson's 26-player squad, with Josie Longhurst called up to replace her. Longhurst, who plays her club football in Canada for Vancouver Rise FC, is one of three uncapped players in the Wales squad alongside goalkeeper Poppy Soper and striker Tianna Teiser. Midfielder Rachel Rowe has returned to the squad after missing last month's Nations League qualifiers with injury. Wales 1-5 Denmark - 26 September, 2023. Denmark 2-1 Wales – 31 October, 2023. Wales will be keen to show their improvement as a side since their last meetings with Denmark in the 2023 Nations League, where they lost 2-1 away in Viborg and were hammered 5-1 in Cardiff, their worst home defeat since 2014. Southampton winger Rachel Rowe played in the 5-1 defeat, but says Wales are confident that Friday's contest will be very different. "In that home game, we conceded a couple within five to ten minutes," she said. "We're far more prepared now on how to manage those moments, whereas in that game, we clearly weren't. It was probably us not having the best game and them probably having a good game, and it was two different ends of the spectrum. "There definitely isn't that fear factor of, we know what happened last time against Denmark. The slate is clean and we're going into this off the back of two good performances."