The Ogun State Command of the Amotekun Corps has dismissed six pregnant female recruits from its ongoing training programme after routine health screenings confirmed their condition.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Confirming the development on Thursday, the State Corps Commander, Brigadier General Alade Adedigba (retd.), said the decision was based on health and safety considerations for both the women and their unborn children.

Speaking to journalists at the training facility, Adedigba stressed that the programme involves strenuous physical activities that could endanger pregnant women, potentially resulting in miscarriages or other serious complications.

“Our training is physically rigorous and demanding,” he said. “We are deeply concerned that subjecting pregnant women to such stress could lead to pregnancy loss or long-term health issues for the mother and child.”

He acknowledged the enthusiasm and dedication of the affected recruits but emphasized that protecting their well-being must take precedence.

According to Amotekun officials, the decision followed a routine pregnancy screening conducted on 125 female recruits currently undergoing a three-week training programme at the NYSC Orientation Camp in Sagamu.

The training began on Sunday, July 6, and is expected to conclude on Friday, July 18.

Despite the dismissal, Adedigba assured the affected women that they are welcome to reapply after childbirth during subsequent recruitment exercises.

“We commend their willingness to serve and understand their passion,” he said. “But we must ensure that their health is not put at risk. They will be given the opportunity to return stronger and complete their training when the time is right.”

He reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to professionalism, discipline, and the welfare of all personnel, while reiterating Amotekun’s core mission of protecting lives and property throughout Ogun State.

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, has categorically denied speculations linking him to a bid for the position of National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), describing such claims as baseless and a needless distraction.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

According to a statement issued on Thursday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Yomi Odunuga, Akume dismissed a report by a national daily that listed him among high-profile figures allegedly angling for the APC’s top job. He insisted that he has no intention of stepping down as SGF or seeking any party leadership role.

“The attention of the SGF has been drawn to a misleading publication by Leadership Newspaper alleging that Senator George Akume is among those jockeying for the APC National Chairmanship. This claim is entirely false and appears intended to divert his focus from the critical responsibilities entrusted to him by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR),” the statement said.

Akume stressed that his sole priority remains the effective implementation of the Renewed Hope Agenda, and that he has no involvement in intra-party contests. He reaffirmed his commitment to President Tinubu’s vision and to delivering results that would directly improve the lives of Nigerians.

“Senator Akume is not, and has never been, interested in the position of APC National Chairman or any such office. His undivided attention is on fulfilling the mandate of national development and coordinating government efforts under the guidance of the President,” the statement continued.

While acknowledging that the North-Central region has capable individuals who could lead the APC should the chairmanship be zoned there, Akume reiterated that his focus is national service, not political ambition.

“I have no intention to abandon the duties entrusted to me. I am a firm believer that what is meant for you, by the will of God, will come to pass. I am not in any race I didn’t sign up for,” Akume was quoted as saying.

He added that all his accomplishments to date have come by divine grace and through the support of others, including President Tinubu, and dismissed the APC chairmanship rumours as a deliberate misrepresentation.

The SGF also urged media practitioners to uphold the ethics of responsible journalism, especially when reporting on sensitive political issues that could create tension.

“We urge journalists to verify information directly with the Office of the SGF before publication. In the spirit of professionalism and fairness, such courtesy would prevent the spread of false narratives and protect the integrity of public discourse,” the statement concluded.

A joint security patrol team in Benue State came under attack on Monday when suspected armed herdsmen ambushed them, leaving several personnel severely injured and three officers reportedly missing.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶