FAAN Probes K1 De Ultimate’s Alleged Airport Security Breach

FAAN Probes K1 De Ultimate’s Alleged Airport Security Breach

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria has launched an investigation into an incident involving popular Fuji musician, Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, popularly known as K1 De Ultimate, over an alleged breach of airport security rules at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja. In a statement issued on Wednesday, FAAN said the altercation occurred on Monday, August 5, 2025, during boarding procedures for a ValueJet Airlines flight (Flight VK 201) headed to Lagos. The release signed by Director, Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Obiageli Orah, read, “Preliminary investigations confirmed that the passenger was scheduled to board the morning flight to Lagos operated by ValueJet Airlines (Flight VK 201). “During boarding, the passenger attempted to carry an unidentified liquid substance on board despite repeated warnings from Aviation Security personnel and the Flight Captain.” FAAN clarified that the musician attempted to board the aircraft carrying a flask containing liquid, violating aviation security regulations that prohibit liquids exceeding 100ml in hand luggage. “In accordance with international aviation security standards specifically, Nigeria’s National Civil Aviation Security Programme and ICAO Annex 17 liquids exceeding 100ml are not permitted through security screening unless medically necessary and properly declared. “The passenger was informed of this regulation but reportedly declined to comply,” the statement read. Tensions reportedly escalated when the musician refused to step aside for further checks. “As boarding continued, an airline security officer asked the passenger to step aside for further clarification. The passenger allegedly refused and spilled the contents of the flask on the officer, which turned out to be alcohol. The Flight Captain intervened but faced similar resistance. “After confirming that boarding was complete, she instructed the closure of the aircraft door,” FAAN added. The situation intensified when the musician moved to the front of the aircraft and refused to vacate the area despite repeated requests from airline personnel. “He was ultimately escorted away by AVSEC crime unit for further investigation, after which he was released,” the statement read. FAAN condemned the disruption and emphasised that the matter remains under thorough investigation. “FAAN reiterates its unwavering commitment to the safety and security of all passengers, crew, and airport personnel. “The Authority will not tolerate any action that compromises operational integrity or undermines aviation safety standards, regardless of the individuals involved,” it stated. The agency assured the public that all parties found culpable will be held accountable according to the law. “FAAN is dedicated to upholding the highest standards of professionalism, safety, and regulatory compliance across all Nigerian airports,” the statement concluded. Punch

ORIIRE YOUTH COUNCIL MET WITH INEC AND NOA, PROPOSE PARTNERSHIP FOR THEIR ONE WEEK-LONG PVC DRIVE

ORIIRE YOUTH COUNCIL MET WITH INEC AND NOA, PROPOSE PARTNERSHIP FOR THEIR ONE WEEK-LONG PVC DRIVE

  In a significant move to deepen democratic engagement and boost voters’ participation in Oriire Local Government, the Oriire Youth Council (OYC) earlier today held a tripartite meeting with representatives of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the National Orientation Agency (NOA) at the Legislative Building of the Oriire Local Government Secretariat. The meeting, which focused on forging partnerships for the upcoming PVC Sensitization Drive scheduled for August 18–22, was attended by key stakeholders from the three bodies. Leading the INEC delegation was *Mr. Olundegun M.A.*, Electoral Officer for Oriire, while *Mr. Adeniyi Oluseyi Gideon*, the Community Orientation and Mobilisation Officer (COMO), represented the NOA. In his opening remarks, Sarafadeen Isiaq Owonikoko,National Chairman of OYC, emphasized the importance of strategic collaborations to increase civic consciousness, particularly among youths and first-time voters. “Our people must understand that having a Permanent Voter’s Card (PVC) is not just a right, but a responsibility to influence governance and development in our area,” he said. Akanji Folasade, Vice Chairman II of the Council, advocated for a community-based awareness model, suggesting that “religious centers, markets, and popular meeting places should be the key touchpoints of our campaign.” The National Public Relations Officer I, Ajadi Isaac Oluwasegun, described the campaign as timely, noting that “there is no better time to drive home the importance of voter participation, especially with the low voter turnout and large numbers of uncollected PVCs.” INEC’s Mr. Olundegun lamented the apathy among registered voters in the local government, revealing that “a significant number of PVCs are lying unclaimed in our custody. We are looking forward to the Youth Council’s efforts to encourage people, especially the youth, to come forward and collect their cards.” NOA’s representative, Mr. Adeniyi Oluseyi Gideon, commended the initiative and stressed the need to extend the advocacy beyond PVC collection to harnessing Oriire’s other potentials. “With our vast arable lands, we should also use this opportunity to promote community development and attract agricultural investments,” he advised. Ojo Oluwasegun Emmanuel, National PRO II, emphasized the need for continuity. “This sensitization shouldn’t end in one week; we should institutionalize civic education at the grassroots.” The Council’s Financial Secretary, Akorede Phebian Jacob highlighted the inclusive nature of the campaign, stating, “We are deliberate in reaching women, youths, and the elderly across all wards.” Aremu Gideon, who represented Ward 9, called on INEC and NOA to approve formal collaboration for the campaign period. “We hope that after today’s deliberation, we can move from intention to implementation.” Joshua Ojo Aderemi, Ex-Officio I and the member representing Oriire Youths at the Oyo State Youth Parliament, added that “voter apathy undermines our electoral strength. If we turn out massively to vote, it will boost our chances of attracting attention to Oriire in government policies, appointments, and infrastructural development.” The INEC and NOA representatives welcomed the proposal and assured the Council that the partnership request would be relayed to their respective superior offices for prompt consideration and possible approval. Earlier this month, OYC had also met with the Legislative Council of Oriire under the leadership of *Hon. Opeyemi Adebayo*, the Executive Chairman of Oriire LG, *Hon. Michael Alabi Olateju*, and *Hon. Johnson Ogundele Akin*, the Member representing Oriire State Constituency. Similarly, they held consultations with *Hon. Sanjo Adedoyin*, Majority Leader of the Oyo State House of Assembly. Scheduled meetings are underway with other political stakeholders including *Hon. Jacob Bamigboye*, *Rt. Hon. Gunju Ojo*, *Hon. Olamijuwonlo Alao-Akala*, *Hon. Segun Ogunwuyi Ebenezer* and party secretariats of the PDP and APC. Courtesy visit letters have also been submitted to *Hon. Wasilat Adegoke* (Commissioner for Youth and Sports), *Hon. Dotun Oyelade* (Commissioner for Information), *Rt. Hon. Edward Adebo Ogundoyin* (Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly), *Hon. Open Salawu* (DG, Project Performance Monitoring Agency), and *Hon. Akinwale Wolekanle* (Chairman, Oyo State Local Government Service Commission). The Youth Council reiterated that the overarching aim of the campaign is to reposition Oriire in the political landscape by promoting active civic participation, thereby fostering a culture of accountability and responsive governance.

OYACA, Estate Surveyors Collaborate To Stop Looted Funds in Real Estate

OYACA, Estate Surveyors Collaborate To Stop Looted Funds in Real Estate

The Oyo State Anti-Corruption Agency (OYACA) has evolved a collaboration with the Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers (NIESV), Oyo State branch, to stop the use of looted public fund for real estate in the State. This was disclosed during the courtesy visit of the Estate Surveyors body to the State Anti-Corruption Agency on Wednesday where the OYACA Chairman, Justice Eni Esan (rtd.), asserted the need for collaborative efforts to stamp out corruption. She reeled out the achievements of her agency to include the investigation and conclusion of 309 cases, prosecution of corrupt civil services and recovery of huge amounts of monies from corrupt contractors and civil servants. Eni Esan, who was represented by the Executive Secretary of the agency, Ibrahim Tijani Esq, told the visitors that as part of the mandate of OYACA, education and enlightenment of the public as well as advocacy programmes for different groups in the State have been a core mandate that has been delivered upon. She pointed that the collaboration would help to identify, verify and manage assets recovered from corrupt practices while ensuring proper valuation and disposal of forfeited assets as well as maintaining ethical conduct within the real estate sector. “While congratulating your the institution of estate Surveyors and Valuers, Oyo State branch, we recognize the efforts of your body in regulating and promoting the best of the established standard for professional conduct among members. “These attest to the fact that your organization also plays an important role in achieving a fair society, free of corruption, it is time to regulate the sector to stop looted funds from being channeled to the real estate sector of Oyo State economy,” the retired Justice mentioned. In his words, the NIESV, Oyo State branch Chairman, Estate Surveyor Olufisayo Ogunbiyi opined that fight against corrupt practices in the areas of valuation of confiscated properties in the course of investigation, adding that the cooperation would also booster the government’s resolve to stave off illicit funds from the real estate sector. Present at the visit were the management members of OYACA like the Executive Secretary, Ibrahim Tijani Esq., Pastor Dr. Folasade Ajibade, Director ICT , Mr Tajudeen Azeez, Director Finance and Administration as well as the Vice Chairman NIESV, Estate Surveyor Olasukanmi Tanigbola, among others.

Tinubu’s Wife’s N1bn Donation Stirs Protest Among IDPs In Benue

Tinubu’s Wife’s N1bn Donation Stirs Protest Among IDPs In Benue

Some Internally Displaced Persons from various camps on Wednesday thronged the Makurdi/Laafia Federal Highway and protested the non-sharing of the N1 billion donation made by Senator Oluremi Tinubu, the wife of President Bola Tinubu. Senator Tinubu, who paid a condolence visit to the state on Tuesday, donated N1 billion for the victims of armed herder attacks. The displaced persons stormed the Makurdi/Laafia federal highway, which disrupted the free flow of vehicular movement. One of the protesters, who simply identified himself as Teeser, accused the state government of not giving out several donations it has received from spirited individuals. He said, “Several people, both private and public-spirited people, have been donating for the upkeep of displaced persons, but nothing has been received from the state government. “The wife of the president, Senator Tinubu yesterday (Tuesday) donated N1 billion to displaced persons and the state government is yet to reach out to us. The Information Officer of the State Emergency and Management Agency, Tema Ager, dismissed the claim by the IDPs, saying that no IDP in the state is being starved. He said that the government was constantly providing for their needs. He said, “The major issue that triggered this protest is politics. Simply because the first lady visited yesterday and announced that she donated N1 billion. You know the process of getting this money; sometimes, they just announce it. It’s when they go back that they process it. “What she announced yesterday cannot happen today, and so the money is for resettlements, not for food, and some of them are protesting that they were given money before, and we have not shared it with them. “That money is not meant to be shared with them. The protest was politically motivated. They were supposed to be given food last week, but the event was overtaken by events. “As we speak now, food is being distributed to them, but they protest that the road was politically motivated. The last time food was distributed to the IDPs was in May this year, but currently, food is being distributed to the IDPs across the state. Reacting to the protest, the Technical Adviser on Media, Communication and Publicity to the state governor, Solomon Iorpev, said that the protest was politically motivated. “If not so, the wife of president Tinubu, senator Oluremi just gave the cheque on Tuesday which is yet to be cleared and cashed for the purpose it was meant. Today, IDPs have blocked the Makurdi – Lafia- Abuja high way demanding for the money.” Iorpev said that Governor Alia is keen on ensuring the welfare of the vulnerable groups in the state, and he will be the last person to think of diverting money meant for the less privileged and urged politicians to close ranks to move the state forward. Efforts to get a reaction from the Police Public Relations Officer for Benue State Command, DSP Udeme Edet, were not successful as calls put to her were unanswered. Punch

Oyo Govt Announces Scheduled Movement Of Oloolu Masquerade In Ibadan

Oyo Govt Announces Scheduled Movement Of Oloolu Masquerade In Ibadan

The Oyo State Government has announced the scheduled movement of Ibadan-based popular Oloolu Masquerade across selected areas in Ibadan, from Monday, July 28 to Thursday, July 31, 2025. In a statement issued and made available to the Media by the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatunbosun, explained that the popular Oloolu, one of the most significant Egungun (Masquerades) in Ibadan, is deeply rooted in the City’s Cultural History. He explained that popular Oloolu is traditionally forbidden to be seen by women, except for women born as triplets,who are believed to receive special blessings from the Masquerade. The Commissioner maintained that unlike other masquerades, Oloolu does not follow a fixed route, as its movement is guided spiritually, adding that some of the notable areas expected to be visited during the procession include Aafin Olubadan, Beere, Oje, Idi Arere, Gate, Agbeni, Orita Merin, Oja-Oba, Ayeye, Oranyan, Oke Aremo, Agugu, and Ore Meji, among others. The Government appealed to residents of Ibadan, especially women, to remain mindful of the cultural significance of this festival and to cooperate with local authorities and community leaders during the movement of the masquerade. He appreciated the continued support and understanding of the general public as we celebrate this important aspect of Ibadan’s rich cultural heritage.

Oyo Govt Bans Sunday Trading At Gbagi Market

Oyo Govt Bans Sunday Trading At Gbagi Market

  IBADAN – Oyo State Government has announced its readiness to enforce ban of Sunday Trading at the Bola Ige International Business Complex, popularly known as Gbagi Market, Ibadan. The Commissioner for Investment, Trade, Cooperatives and Industry, Hon. Adeniyi Adebisi stated this on Thursday, in his Office at Secretariat Ibadan. The Commissioner explained that the ban will curb rising insecurity and restore order at the market, adding that the enforcement will take effect from Sunday, 27th July 2025. He hinted that the enforcement is a culmination of a series of consultations and meetings held with market leaders and stakeholders over time. Hon. Adebisi explained that criminal elements were increasingly exploiting the less crowded Sunday environment to perpetrate unlawful activities, saying this prompted renewed engagements with the market leadership, after the government decided to formalize the ban and put enforcement measures in place. According to him, the ban on Sunday trading was originally instituted by the market leadership themselves, in a bid to maintain order and protect traders. “However, some traders have continued to flout the directive, leading to a rise in insecurity concerns.” “We cannot fold our arms and allow the hard-earned reputation of this great market to be tarnished by the activities of a few criminally-minded individuals. After a careful review and collaboration with the market leaders, we all agreed that strict enforcement of the Sunday trading ban is a necessary step towards restoring sanity and safeguarding the lives and property of our traders and customers,” he said. To ensure compliance, the Commissioner announced that a dedicated task force will be deployed to the market every Sunday to prevent any form of trading or business activity. He stressed that the enforcement is not a new directive but a government-backed measure to support the market’s existing policy and protect law-abiding traders. The Commissioner stressed further that Market leaders and stakeholders have welcomed the government’s support and pledged their continued cooperation. He emphasized that the safety of traders, customers, and their businesses remains paramount to this government. Earlier, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Olajide Okesade, highlighted the importance of shared responsibility between the government and the trading community. He assured stakeholders of the government’s unwavering commitment to maintaining peace and order within the market. “The Bola Ige International Business Complex is one of the largest and busiest textile and general merchandise markets in the Southwest region”, he said. “Traders and members of the public are urged to take note of the government’s enforcement action and ensure full compliance, as violators will be sanctioned in accordance with existing regulations.

EU Votes Over ₦800m To Assist Displaced Persons In Benue

EU Votes Over ₦800m To Assist Displaced Persons In Benue

  The European Union has allocated €500,000 (approximately ₦886 million) to provide urgent humanitarian assistance to thousands of internally displaced persons in Benue State. This follows a surge in deadly attacks that have worsened the state’s protracted humanitarian crisis. According to the EU, more than 1.5 million people have been displaced from their homes since 2018. The EU also stated that between 2024 and 2025, no fewer than 6,900 lives had been lost and over 400,000 people displaced. In a statement on Thursday, the EU’s Public Affairs Officer, Politics, Press and Information Section, Ugo Sokari-George, said the funding will be used over a six-month period to support critical interventions in partnership with the International Organisation for Migration. Sokari-George said, “In response to the influx of displaced people following the recent attacks in Benue State, the EU has released €500,000 (approximately NGN 886,315,000) to meet the most urgent humanitarian needs. “This EU funding will support, for a period of six months, and in partnership with the IOM, efforts to implement activities in sectors such as protection, shelter, water, sanitation and hygiene, as well as multi-purpose financial aid. “Escalating armed violence in Benue State, Nigeria, has displaced thousands of people, exacerbating an already critical humanitarian crisis. In June 2025, a wave of attacks forced almost 23,000 people to flee, many of whom had already been displaced in the past, triggering a cycle of heightened vulnerability.” The EU said the aid package will focus on protection, shelter, water, sanitation and hygiene as well as multi-purpose cash assistance for affected populations. “Conditions inside the camps are dire. There is a severe lack of shelter for families, and inadequate access to water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH). Access to livelihoods remains precarious, while protection risks have increased considerably, particularly for women, children and people with disabilities, making the humanitarian response even more complex. “This latest wave of violence is part of a protracted humanitarian crisis that has been shaking the state of Benue since 2018. More than 1.5 million people have been displaced from their homes since 2018. The escalation of violence in 2024 and 2025 has already claimed some 6,900 lives and displaced more than 400,000 people, stressing the urgency of the situation”, the statement concluded. Punch  

Suppliers Oppose Dangote’s Proposed Direct Fuel Distribution Scheme

  Less than a month before the commencement of Dangote refinery’s direct fuel distribution scheme, oil suppliers in Nigeria have asked the company to rescind its decision. From August 15, Dangote would begin supplying fuel directly to filling stations, telecommunication companies, the aviation sector, and other bulk fuel consumers. However, suppliers under the aegis of the Natural Oil and Gas Suppliers Association of Nigeria expressed concerns that the move could lead to widespread job losses across the sector. In a statement made available to our correspondent, NOGASA President Benneth Korie said Dangote’s plan to bypass the traditional distribution network would disrupt the oil and gas supply chain and threaten the livelihoods of thousands of workers. Korie’s comment confirmed a report by Sunday PUNCH that there was growing tension among fuel suppliers and tanker drivers over Dangote’s new distribution scheme. With 4,000 new Compressed Natural Gas-powered tankers for nationwide distribution of petrol, diesel, and jet fuel directly to marketers, petrol dealers, manufacturers, telecom firms, aviation companies, and other large consumers, Dangote intends to shun traditional depots and middlemen. But members of NOGASA, who serve as intermediaries between refineries and final consumers, feared that the distribution model would render them ’useless’ in the industry. “This is the new trend in the oil and gas industry, where Dangote is now supplying products directly to end users, especially MTN, companies, hotels, and all the rest of them. Members of NOGASA are suppliers of petroleum products. By doing so, a lot of jobs are at stake, and we are kicking against this new way of supplying products to end users,” Korie stated. He worried that many NOGASA members and their employees could lose their jobs, saying that the redundancy of trucks, drivers, and other logistic staff looms as a direct result of the bypassed supply chain. “It will remove jobs from a lot of them, and some of our staff will be redundant, and some of our trucks will be redundant,” said Korie, who added that NOGASA’s meeting scheduled for July 31 in Abuja would focus on developing a unified strategy to address the issue, including the possibility of downing tools and direct engagement with Dangote to seek a resolution. He said the association is advocating for a distribution structure where Dangote supplies products to NOGASA members, who will then sell to end-users to preserve jobs within the supply chain. “We are holding a general meeting on July 31 to decide whether to down tools and to find a way to ensure that Dangote will supply the product to them rather than supply to the end users. And we will, in turn, supply to the end users. These are chains of distribution,” Korie explained. Punch

Court Strikes Out N12.3bn Fraud Case Against Otudeko After Settlement

  The Federal High Court in Lagos has struck out the N12.3bn fraud charge filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission against the Chairman of Honeywell Group, Dr. Oba Otudeko, and three others, after the anti-graft agency formally withdrew the case on Wednesday. The EFCC had arraigned Otudeko, former First Bank Managing Director Olabisi Onasanya, former Honeywell board member Soji Akintayo, and Anchorage Leisure Limited in a 13-count charge (Suit No. FHC/L/20C/2025). The defendants were accused of conspiring to fraudulently obtain N12.3bn from First Bank of Nigeria under the guise of credit facilities for V-TECH Dynamic Links Ltd. and Stallion Nigeria Ltd. At Wednesday’s proceedings, EFCC counsel, Rotimi Oyedepo, told Justice Chukwujekwu Aneke that the matter had been amicably resolved between the nominal complainant, First Bank, and the first defendant, Otudeko. Oyedepo said, “The parties have reached a full and final settlement. “First Bank, the nominal complainant, has formally withdrawn its complaint. The funds at the heart of the matter have been fully repaid, and there is no further interest in pursuing the charge. “In the interest of justice and to prevent abuse of the court process, the Attorney General of the Federation, having reviewed the facts and the full recovery of the disputed funds, decided to discontinue the prosecution.” According to Oyedepo, following applications for settlement by the defence, the AGF convened a meeting involving all stakeholders. This led to a formal resolution communicated via a July 16, 2025, letter from First Bank and another from Otudeko’s counsel confirming the settlement. He stated that a follow-up letter on July 21, 2025, reaffirmed the bank’s position and requested that the charge be withdrawn. Otudeko’s counsel, Bode Olanipekun, informed the court that “all issues leading to the institution of this charge have been completely resolved.” Other defence lawyers Adeyinka Olumide-Fusika, SAN (for Onasanya), Tunde Afe Babalola (for Akintayo), and Dr. Charles Adeogun-Phillips (for Anchorage Leisure Ltd.) confirmed the amicable settlement. After hearing the submissions, Justice Aneke ruled, “In view of the application by the prosecution and the confirmation by the defence, this case is hereby struck out.” In a statement following the court’s ruling, signed by its General Counsel, Olasumbo Abolaji, welcomed the development, describing it as a reaffirmation of Dr. Otudeko’s integrity. Abolaji said, “Honeywell Group confirms that the legal proceedings initiated by the EFCC against our Chairman, Dr. Oba Otudeko, CFR, in connection with matters relating to First Holdco Plc, have been formally withdrawn. “This development marks the closure of a chapter that, while challenging, never diminished our confidence in Dr. Otudeko’s integrity or our belief in the principles that have guided his life and leadership. “At no point was there any finding or admission of wrongdoing, and this conclusion further affirms what we have always maintained that this was a commercial transaction, investigated by the EFCC and resolved eight years ago. “Dr. Otudeko’s service, enterprise, and nation-building record stand firm and unblemished. For over six decades, he has contributed significantly to Nigeria’s economic and institutional development, including distinguished tenures across banking, industry, and public service. His leadership of First Bank was marked by stability, stewardship, and strategic vision.” The group reaffirmed its commitment to creating value through enterprise in food, energy, infrastructure, and financial services. “As we move forward, we do so strengthened by experience, focused on the future, and anchored in the enduring values that have always shaped our journey,” the statement added. Punch  

FG Set To Clear N81bn N-Power Backlog — Senate

FG Set To Clear N81bn N-Power Backlog — Senate

  The Senate on Tuesday said the Federal Government was preparing to clear the outstanding N81bn owed as backlog of N-Power allowances in 2022 and 2023. This development followed a meeting convened by the Deputy President of the Senate, Barau Jibrin, who brokered dialogue between the Federal Government, representatives of the aggrieved N-Power beneficiaries, and their counsel, Abba Hikima. Speaking to journalists after the closed-door meeting, Barau disclosed that the discussions were fruitful and had led to an understanding that payment arrangements were already underway. “The beneficiaries came here to the Senate to seek my intervention. I called the minister, and he responded positively. “We held a very fruitful discussion that assured the beneficiaries that the government is actively making preparations to settle the backlog,” he said. “Having seen the clear commitment of the government, they have agreed to suspend legal action. “This is a responsive government under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, and no one will be denied what is rightfully theirs,” Barau added. Echoing the Senate’s position, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, explained that the debt arose from unpaid allowances captured in the 2022 and 2023 budgets but rolled over without being funded. “We acknowledge that we owe them. These arrears were part of the 2022 and 2023 recurrent budgets, but there was no provision for them in the 2024 and 2025 budgets. “We approached the service-wide vote and got an approval late last year. Now, we’re working to activate the payment in the current fiscal year. As a responsible government, we will resolve this before the year ends,” he assured. Hikima, who represented the N-Power beneficiaries, confirmed that litigation was being suspended due to the assurances given during the Senate-brokered meeting. “The government owes my clients about N81 billion. The minister has assured us that once the 2025 budget implementation kicks off, payments will commence. “We appreciate the Senate Deputy President and other government officials for stepping in,” Hikima said. Chairman of the N-Power beneficiaries, Kehinde James, thanked Barau and the ministers involved for their intervention and commitment to settling the long-standing arrears. The N-Power programme, a flagship social intervention initiative, has faced delays and funding gaps in recent years, sparking protests and legal threats from unpaid participants. Punch