Friday June 16, 2023 Edition

Tinubu inaugurates NEC, says no excuse for failure

By Egena Sunday Ode

President Bola Tinubu

Thursday inaugurated the National Economic Council (NEC), headed by Vice President Kashim Shettima.

In his address, the President charged the council to support his administration in transforming the economic fortunes of the country.

According to him, the task of growing the nation’s economy is quite enormous, saying that no excuse for failure would be entertained.

The inauguration came a week after Tinubu directed NEC to meet to come up with intervention programmes to mitigate the effects

of the petroleum subsidy removal.

The NEC meets monthly and has the mandate to “advise the President concerning the economic affairs of the federation, and in particular on measures necessary for the coordination of the economic planning efforts or economic programmes of the various Governments of the Federation.”

Membership of the NEC comprises the 36 State Governors, the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Minister of Finance and other co-opted government officials.

Those in attendance as at the time the meeting commenced were Kwara, Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, Osun, Ademola Adeleke, Kogi,

Yahaya Bello, Ekiti, Biodun Oyebanji, Nasarawa, Abdullahi Sule, Akwa Ibom, Umo Eno and Enugu, Peter Mbah Cross River, Bassey Otu, Plateau, Caleb Muftwang, Kebbi, Nasir Idris, Katsina, Aliyu Radda and Benue Hycinth Alia.

Others were Zamfara, Dauda Lawal, Ogun, Dapo Abiodun, Anambra Charles Soludo, Yobe, Mai Mala Buni, Taraba, Agbu Kefas, Gombe, Delta, Sheriff Oborevwori, Rivers, Siminalayi Fubara, Niger Mohammed Bago and Sokoto, Ahmad Aliyu.

Also present were Ebonyi, Francis Nwifuru, Kaduna, Uba Sani, Edo, Godwin Obaseki, Abia, Alex Otti, Bayelsa, Douye Diri,

Kano, Abba Yusuf, Bauchi, Bala Mohammed, Oyo, Seyi Makinde and Borno State Deputy Governor, Umar Kadafur and Deputy Governor of Ondo, Lucky Ayedatiwa

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kyari, Acting Accountant General of the Federation, Oluwatoyin Madein, Acting Governor of Central Bank, Folashodun Shonubi, Permanent Secretaries Budget and National Planning, Federal Capital Territory Administration were also in attendance.

SON issues MANCAP certificates to seven companies in Niger

By Mashe Umaru Gwamna

Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), Niger

ll office has issued Mandatory Conformity in Assessment Programme (MANCAP) certificates to 7 companies in suleje Niger state.

There are 12 products in all, 6 companies are food related which has water, rice and potatoes chip, a foam manufacturer that has required certification while one company had their certificates revalidated.

Speaking at the presentation of the certificates, Director General/ Chief Executive of SON, Farouk Salim said that the event was a continuation of the organisation’s mission to promote consumers’ confidence and global competitiveness

of made-in-Nigeria products through standardisation and quality assurance.

Salim who was represented by the Director, North Central, Babaji Saleh commended the awardees for ensuring that their products comply with all SON processes.

He said” We gave you this certificates, that doesn’t mean that it doesn’t have an expiration date .What we expects from you all is that, when the certificates expires, we will be happy to see that you come with another modernized version of their products to be registered again .

“SON has the mandate to protect your business and certificates, that is why our officers will be visiting your companies from time to time for inspecting and cross

examine products in ensuring that the right standard is been maintained continuously”,he noted.

He emphasized that “The certificates we are giving you all today is base on trust from the government end and from your end in order to protect the citizens”.

Meanwhile,State Coordinator SON, Niger II, Adamu S. Ahmed, said the Mandatory Conformity Assessment Programme, MANCAP, is a policy put in place by the Federal Government of Nigeria; with the objective of improving quality of lives of citizens of the country by ensuring that all locally manufactured products conform to relevant Nigerian Industrial Standards.

According to Ahmed, the mancap certification has a lot of economic benefits to afford the country, which is by promoting healthy competition among domestic manufactures for individuals development .

“ It also encourages excellent products and healthy products through consistent compliance while providing confidence to the consumer that the products he or she is buying has value for his money”.

He appealed to Nigerians to always send feedback to SON, this will enable the organization to deliver more .

One of the manufacturers Mrs Hannah appreciated the SON for ensuring that all the standard are been comply and also approving their companies.

L-R: Chief of staff to the President Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila; Vice President Kashim Shettima, and President Bola Ahemd Tinubu, at the Inauguration of the National Economic Council (NEC), Meeting at the Presidential Villa Abuja yesterday

Tinubu appoints Ribadu, Alake, Ibrahim Anas, 5 others as special advisers

By Egena Sunday Ode

President Bola Tinubu has appointed former Chairmam of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Malam Nuhu Ribadu, former Commissioner for Indormation and

Strategy in Lagos State, Dele Alake and six others as special advisers.

Ribadu is named as Special Adviser on Security while Alake is to take charge of Special Duties, Communication and Strategy, according to a statement by the Director of Information, State

House, Abiodun Oladunjoye on Thursday.

Others are Wale Edu, a prominent finance expert will take charge of Monetary Policies, while Salma Ibrahim Anas is placed in charge of health.

The rest are Yau Darazo

Dissolution of Plateau

(Special Adviser, Political and Intergovernmental Affairs);

Olu Verheijen (Special Adviser, Energy); Zachaeus Adedeji (Special Adviser, Revenue) and John Ugochukwu Uwajumogu (Special Adviser, Industry, Trade and Commerce).

LGAs undemocratic, illegal, SDP presidential candidate, Adebayo tells Governor

By Lateef Ibrahim, Abuja

Presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party, SDP, in the last general elections, Prince Adewole Adebayo has criticiszed the recent dissolution of the local government administration by the Plateau State Governor Mr. Caleb Mutfwtang.

Adebayo said it is unconstitutional for State Governors to dissolve local government council administration they met on ground as all electoral votes, whether at the national, state or local government levels are all the same.

Adebayo’s admonition came in view of the Plateau State Governor’s suspension of the 17 local government areas council administration in the State. Mutfwtang, it will be recalled,had said that the suspension was based on inability of the Local Government Chairmen to make available records of their income and expenditure to the State House of Assembly even as he had immediately swornin interim transition committee Chairmen for the Councils.

Adebayo, through his verified tweeter account @ Pres_Adebayo, said its unconstitutional misconduct of state governors to dissolve such administration when their tenure hasn’t elapsed.

Gov. Sani bemoans high number of out-of-school children in Kaduna

From: Femi Oyelola, Kaduna

Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani has, expressed concern over the rising population of out-of-school children in Kaduna State, saying that this number is unacceptable. This was contained in a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor Muhammad Lawal Shehu and made available to the media in Kaduna yesterday.

Speaking during a meeting with the Chairman and the management team of the Kaduna State Universal Basic Education

Board (KADSUBEB) to discuss the issue of out-of-school children in the state and other activities on the Board, he stressed that the out-of-school children in Kaduna worrisome.

The Governor had summoned the KADSUBEB team Uba Sani charged all relevant agencies to work together to leverage on his administration’s commitment to investing in human capital that captures improving teacher quality and teaching standards to ensure that education investments produce the desired learning outcomes and bring this menace to the barest minimum.

He emphasised that “reducing the number of out-of-school children is a top priority for his administration” and urged all stakeholders to work towards achieving this goal.

Furthermore, the Sani informed SUBEB officials that he will present a report on the issue of out-of-school children in Kaduna State at the National Economic Council, aimed at attracting funding and support from the Federal Government and other relevant stakeholders towards addressing the issue.

The Governor also reiterated his administration’s commitment

to providing quality education for all children in Kaduna State, regardless of their socio-economic background. He urged parents and guardians to take advantage of the free education policy in the state and ensure that their children are enrolled in school.

Gov. Sani urged all stakeholders to collaborate with his administration to ensure that each child in Kaduna State has access to quality education, highlighting that education is crucial in enabling young people to reach their full potential and help build a prosperous future for the state.

“Unconstitutional misconduct of State Governors in whimsically dissolving LGA Councils they met on ground is undemocratic and grossly illegal. All votes are equally sovereign.

“It is the same electorates that vote in National, State and Local Government elections. All are sacred.”

He thus advised the Plateau Governor to restore dissolved local government councils in compliance with Supreme Court judgment.

He said: “Plateau State Governor and other despots should promptly restore dissolved LG Councils in compliance with Supreme Court judgement in Yantaba vs Governor of Katsina State (2022) 1 NWLR PT. 1811 AT 259, and other Supreme Court judgements enforcing section 7(1) of the Constitution”.

L-R: Kebbi State governor, Nasiru Idris; Katsina State Governor Dikko Radda; Kano State governor Abba Kabir Yusuf; Kaduna State Governor Sen. Uba Sani, and Jigawa State governor Alhaji Umar Namadi, at the Inauguration of the National Economic Council (NEC), Meeting at the Presidential Villa Abuja yesterday

Niger Govt reveals 30 yrs devt plan

From Yakubu Mustapha Minna

Niger State Government has concluded to come up with a 30-year Development Plan (SDP) that will be implemented in phases.

Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago stated this when he met with the Director General (DG) of Nigeria Country Office, African Development Bank (AfDB), Lamin Barrow, in Abuja.

The meeting was aimed at establishing partnership between the Niger State government the AfDB to bring about developmental projects such as construction of schools, irrigation schemes and renewable energy among others.

Governor Bago explained that the SDP will help in developing agriculture, pointing out that for a start, government will take advantage of of the large expanse of land and provide 100,000 hectares of land for agricultural activities, while efforts will be intensified for the creation of Agro-Processing Zones and renewable energy.

He highlighted the numerous mineral resources the state is endowed with, and that his administration will leverage on that to woo investors to the state.

The D.G, Nigeria Country Office, AfDB, Lamin Barrow, said the partnership will no doubt bring about the desired development and improve the life of citizenry especially those in the rural areas.

He expressed confidence that the Bago led administration has the capacity to deliver dividends of democracy to the people owing to his banking experience.

2023 UTME: JAMB pays N1.5b to CBT centres

Maryam Abeeb

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has disclosed that the board has paid a total sum of one billion, four hundred and seventy-eight million, four hundred and sixteen thousand naira (N1,478,416,000.00) only, to owners of Non-JAMB Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres nationwide for the services they rendered during the 2023 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination

(UTME).

In a statement, the Head, Public Affairs and Protocols, JAMB, Fabian Benjamin noted that figure is less N59,585,000, which is the part of the approved sum meant for JAMB - owned CBT centres.

The Board notes that it is only proper to promptly settle obligations as and when due so as to promote and sustain a cordial working relationship with partners who discharged their duties creditably.

“It is to be noted that most

of the centres used for the examination are not JAMBowned while some are ICT facilities of tertiary institutions. This symbiotic relationship between the Board and the privately-owned CBT centres and others is collaborative in nature and is designed to ensure better quality service delivery and inclusiveness.

“Hence, the Board is proud to announce that all centres owners who rendered quality service during the justconcluded examination had

been appropriately commended for a job well done and paid accordingly.

“Furthermore, as a responsive organisation, the Board will continue to ensure that every candidate is guaranteed unfettered access to higher education through the provision of a level playing field for all.

“The Board also reiterates its resolve to continue to leverage on state-of-the-art technology, not only to deliver quality assessment, but also to protect the integrity of its examinations,” it’s reads.

Benue Governorship: Parties differ over jurisdiction to hear case

From Uche Nnorom,

Makurdi

Parties in the Governorship election case in Benue State have differed on issue of jurisdiction to hear the matter before the Election Petitions Tribunal sitting in Makurdi.

It would be noted the matter which was billed for commencement of hearing after the pre-hearing session on Wednesday 14th June, 2023 failed to hold.

It was gathered that a new panel, been the third since the matter was moved from Lafia to Makurdi,was constituted headed by Justice Ibrahim Mohammed.

Hence, this necessitated a fresh pre-hearing session on Thursday 15th June, 2023.

During the hearing, the petitioners(PDP) argued strongly that the tribunal has jurisdiction to hear the matter while, the respondents vehemently opposed and asked the tribunal to decline jurisdiction of the petition.

Raising his application, Douglas Pepe, SAN for the petitioners said they have diled a counter affidavit accompanied by written add.

He aked 3 questions for the answer which will resolve the application one way or d other.

“Whether the soul of the petiton falls under ambit of section 134 1 a, if tnis is in the affirmative application must stays. Whether the petitoner fall within the ambit of persons who cam present an election petition under section 138 of the lectoral Act if yes applicstion must fail. Whether they are facts in support of the grounds which can be accommodated under sect if yes application must fail.

The entirety of the petiton is premised on novel on sect 134 sub 3 of the Electoral Act 2022. Act was done in Abubakar vs INEC. Section 31 and 138 sub 1 of d Electoral Act. 138 did not interfere with 134 sect 285 sub 14 of d 1999 Constitution does nt apply to Election Petition. Sect 29 sub 4 of Electoral Act is significant in this direction as it gives every member of public including petitoner right to access any info supplied to INEC by a candidate 29 sub 5 restrict right of action 2 an aspirant .U

“nder new electoral act petitoner have right but not given

right to file pre election matter 31 sub 5 of 2010 petitoner should have filed a complaint relatiing to false info but under new act they can only come through section 134. The Petition is talking about forged document presented by first respondent to the third respondent. What we are saying in the petiton is that there was never a sponsorship and nomination. You cannot put nothing on anything. There is limited time for nomination and sponsorship once it elapsed nomination ended 180 before the election anything outside that it cannot be used to defeat an election. Our petiton is on solid ground”, he argued.

In his argument counsel to Govermor Hyacinth Alia Sunday Ameh SAN held that issues dealing with validity of 2nd and 3rd respondents that happened before the election is a matter for regular court at the fed high court

Ameh also said the petitioners did not participate in nomination of 2nd and 3rd respdents so they lack the locus standi, maintaining that no political party can challenge section 285 of the Constitution of

the Federal Republic which deals with nomination no matter how pained it is.

“The Petitioners did not participate in the nomination of the 2nd and 3rd respondents form EC9 which talks about forgery published before the election had cause of action. I urge the tribunal to decline jurisdiction of the case”, the Governor’s counsel stated.

Lead counsel to the Deputy Governor Samuel Ode, Mamman Osuman, SAN for the 3rd respondents through Prof. Omoreigbe said pursuant to section 29 sub 5 and 84 of Electoral Act, the entirety of the petition should be dismissed as it is founded on pre election matter.

He argued that on the issue of jurisdiction every matter that relates to pre-election must be filed 14 days after the occurrence of the event and only the High court has jurisdiction, adding that section 177 that talks on qualification and section 182 which deals with disqualificarion that they gave have been incorporated into 134 sub 1 is immaterial as it does not change the law.

Ijaw Reps members raise alarm over alleged remapping of LGAs in Akwa Ibom

By Christiana Ekpa

Members of the Ijaw Legislators Forum in House of Representatives, has raised alarm over the alleged remapping of some local government areas in Akwa Ibom state, South South region, belonging to the people of Ijaw extraction.

The Forum also decried the threat to the livelihood of the Ijaw people in Akwa Ibom state.

The Group also called on the security agencies to give protection to the lives and properties of the Ijaws living, residing and doing business in Akwa Ibom State.

Briefing the newsmen on Thursday, Hon. Awaji-Inombek Abiante, lawmaker representing Opobo Nkoro Federal Constituency of Rivers State said “As we speak, they are invading several communities that belong to the Ijaws in Akwa Ibom.

The Lawmakers had a petition laid before the House on Wednesday alleging remapping of local government areas in Akwa Ibom state, that has led to the Ijaw lawmakers from Bayelsa, Delta, Akwa

Ibom, Rivers states.

According to Hon. Abiante, “This action was allegedly conducted within a few days to the exit of the immediate past government against all regulations, all requirements attempting to take the land belonging to the ijaw nation”.

“Probably our thinking is that with the passing of the petroleum industry act person who don’t have any bearing with the oil exploration within the state wanting to cease part of the land so that, that will qualify them as host communities.

“We are not bothered, we are not worried. The fact that the bulk of the resources accruing to Akwa Ibom State is derivable from the oil within the local government areas of the Ijaw Nation.

“Eastern Obolo, Ibeno and Mbo local government areas, we know are oil producing. We have come with the aspirations, the desires, the pains and the cries of our people to say NO!

“This should not be, given the Ijaws in Akwa Ibom State could be in the minority in the state, but they deserve the protection

of the state, they deserve the protection of the Federal Government. They deserve the protection of the strong. In democracy, the strong are obligated to protect and defend the weak.

“We have come crying and saying please, this should not happen to our people. It is against morality, it is against justice. It is also against the laws of our land. And if anyone takes the law into his hands, then definitely, that person should be told in clear terms that whatever he or she has done or is attempting to do remains illegal. We would not want to go into the details of litigations or no litigations.

“Those are issues that would be brought up at the point when the petition would be determined by the committee”.

according to the lawmakers, the briefing was to sensitive the world on the threat to the livelihood of the people of Ijaw extraction in the state.

When asked to be more explicit on what he meant by “they” invading the villages, Abiante responded, “When you classify a state, a state can be referred to

as “they”. And the land, the properties of the Ijaws have been shared among several local government areas in Akwa Ibom State. So they are the “they”.

“Any Ijaw man anywhere is an Ijaw man. You cannot force me to lose my identity. It is the injustice inherent in the system that has divided our people, that has refused to bring us all together in the name of states. SO every Ijaw man anywhere remains an Ijaw man.

“If i come to your father’s house and take your property, you will clap for me I guess. I am asking you”.

The major occupation of the ijaws are predominantly fishing and they reside along the coasts.

“I don’t know how much of Nigerian geography that you know. Ijaws are principally fishermen. We live along the coasts. You may have heard of Ibeno beach which is about the longest natural beach we have in this country. It is a resource. You must have heard about several oil wells from where Akwa Ibom derives her 13 percent. They are all within the Ijaw territory. Is that not going to be too attractive?”

Troops kill 20 Boko Haram/ISWAP members, arrest 40 suspected terrorists logistics suppliers

By Tobias Lengnan Dapam

The Nigerian military said its troops killed 20 Islamic State of West Africa Province terrorist and captured 7 suspected terrorists, apprehended 40 suspected terrorists logistics suppliers and 15 notorious criminal gang members at various locations in the north eastern part of the country.

Maj-Gen. Musa Danmadami, Director, Defence Media Operations, made this known on Thursday in Abuja, while giving update on two weeks Military operations in the country.

He said others arrested, were 4 drug peddlers, 3 kidnappers

•As 743 surrender with families

and 3 terrorists collaborators.

“Troops equally rescued 15 kidnapped civilians, while a total of 743 terrorists and members of their families, comprising 42 adult males, 251 adult females and 452 children surrendered to troops at different locations within the theatre of operation.

“All recovered items, arrested terrorists, suspected criminals and rescued civilians have been handed over to the appropriate authority for further action, while the surrendered Boko Haram/Islamic State of West Africa Province terrorists and members of their families were

profiled and documented for further action.

“Also, troops recovered 27 sacks of grinded corn, 7 bags of corn grains, 5 bags of local rice, 1 bag of beans, 8 chemical sprayers, 12 sleeping mats, 11 bicycles, clothings, 37 sachets of seasonings, 10 mobile phones, 15 packs of spaghetti, 12 bars soaps, 3 vehicles, 8 rams, gallons of palm oil, the sum of Three Hundred and Thirty Three Thousand, Six Hundred and Ten Naira (N333,610.00) only and other sundry items.

“Also, on 3 June 2023, troops in conjunction with National Drug Law Enforcement Agency

operatives raided suspected drug peddlers warehouse at Barge village in Shani Local Government Area of Borno State and arrested 4 drug peddlers. Troops also recovered 12 sacks of substances suspected to be cannabis. It was revealed that the substances were to be supplied to terrorists. In another development, on 6 June 2023, troops arrested a suspected arms dealer with 470 rounds of 7.62mm special and 4 AK47 magazines at Yoyo in Monguno Local Government Area of Borno State. The suspect confessed to have been engaged in the business for the past 2 years.

“In addition, on 9 June 2023,

following intel of notorious gang hibernating in some locations within Maiduguri town of Borno State. Troops conducted a covert sting operation and arrested 15 suspected criminals. Troops also recovered 1 pump action gun, 1 axe, 2 jack knives, 5 mobile phones amongst other items. Equally, on 7 June 2023, troops raided a suspected gun runner resident at Gassol town in Gassol Local Government Area of Taraba State. During the operation, troops arrested 1 suspect and recovered 39 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo and the sum of Ten Million, Five Hundred and Sixty-Three Thousand Naira (N10,563,000.00) only.”

18,088 blurred election results uploaded to the IReV portal - Witness

By Vivian Okejeme, Abuja

The Labour Party (LP) and it’s Presidential Candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, Thursday, told the Presidential Election Petition Court (PEPC) that he discovered a total of 18,088 blurred result sheets uploaded to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Result Viewing (IReV) portal.

The fourth Petition witness, Eric Uwadiegwu Ofoedu, a Professor of Mathematics at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, told the court that he carried out an investigation and data analysis of the 2023 Presidential Election results on the IReV portal.

Led in evidence-in-chief by

Onyechi Ikpeazu (SAN), Ofoedu told the court that he conducted an analysis of results from Rivers and Benue states respectively and a report on his findings.

Reacting, Counsel for INEC, Abubakar Mahmoud (SAN) told the court that he was served the statement in court and he is handicap on how to go about the proceedings.

He asked the Petitioners to step down the witness and grant them time to look at the documents filed and prepare for Cross-examination.

In the same, Tinubu and Shetimma, through thier Counsel, Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN) and Lateef Fagbemi aligned themselves with the submissions of Mahmood (SAN) but however

suggested that the witness should adopt his evidence, while they cross-examine him later.

In his responds, Dr. Ikpeazu (SAN) apologized for serving the respondents late but told the court that they just obtained the Subpoena yesterday.

He requested that the witness be allowed to adopt his evidence in chief while the court determines whether or not Cross-examination will be done later.

The Justice Haruna Tsammani-led panel granted the request by the LP and deferred Cross-examination till tomorrow.

Ikpeazu informed the court about a letter of request written to the witness by the LP, on February 20, asking him to carryout data analysis for the presidential

election, as well as the subpoena served on the witness.

He tendered all the documents as evidence in the petition before the court.

Counsels for INEC and Tinubu/Shetimma objected to the admissibility of the letter but did not object to the Subpoena, however, counsel for the APC objected to the Subpoena but not the letter.

The LP then called their second witness, Lummie Edeveie, a staff Arise News TV to present evidence before the court.

Led in Evidence by Patrick Ikweto (SAN), Edeveie presented a flash drive containing a video before the court.

Mr. Ikweto tendered the flash before the court and applied that

it be played in court.

Though the respondents objected to the admissibility of the flash drive as evidence, they did not object to it being played in court.

The application was granted by the court and the video was played on screen for everyone to watch.

The video contained the speech by the INEC Chairman, Prof Mahmood Yakubu at the Chatham House where he spoke about the elections, giving assurances on the potency of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System and the IReV portals ahead of the general elections.

Justice Tsammani after admitting the flash as evidence adjourned till tomorrow, June 16 for further hearing.

L-R: Former Jigawa State Governor, Badaru Abubakar; Former Kebbi State Governor Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, former Deputy Governor of Jigawa State/ Deputy Chief of Staff to the President office of the Vice President, Ibrahim Hassan Hadejia, during their visit to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, at the Presidential Villa yesterday

Reps reject motion to prevent migration of doctors, nurses, others from Nigeria

By Christiana Ekpa

The Nigerian House of Representatives, on Thursday, rejected a motion seeking to address incessant migration of Nigerian youths, especially professionals who have distinguished themselves in various disciplines, from the country, to get permanent residences in foreign countries.

A Member representing Ado/ Okpokwu/Ogbadibo Federal Constituency of Benue State, Comrade Philip Agbese, had moved a motion on the floor, urging his colleagues to support and pass resolutions, to curtail what he described as ‘JAPA syndrome’.

Abbas constitutes 7 special committees

to coordinate Legislative activities

By Christiana Ekpa

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rep Tajudeen Abbas, on Thursday constituted seven special committees that would be responsible for the coordination of legislative activities.

The speaker of the House, Hon. Abbas announced the special committees during plenary yesterday.

Some of the committees constituted include: Internal Security Committee to be led by Rep Mohammed Danjuma, Selection of Committee which would be chaired by the Speaker, Rep Abbas.

Others include: Media committee to be headed by Rep. Buka Ibrahim (APC-Yobe), Legislative Agenda Committee, which would be Chaired by Prof Julius Ihonbvare (APC-Edo), Rules and Business Committee, to be led by Rep. Igariwey Iduma (PDP-Ebonyi)

Also constituted are; Welfare Committee, headed by Rep. Wale Raji (APC-Lagos) and Ethics and Privileges Committee which would be led by Rep Tunji Olawuyi (APC-Kwara)

Rep. Dennis Idahosa representing Ovia Federal Constituency of Edo State, seconded the motion and urged Members to support it.

While leading a debate on the motion, Agbese expressed great concern that, “the growing statistics of young Nigerians leaving Nigeria and securing permanent residence in the United Kingdom, the USA and Canada portends a grave danger for our nation in many ways from economic to intellectual and social aspects.

“Also concerned that the Nigerian population is made of two-thirds of persons under the age of 30 and a good number of these persons are already afflicted with what today is acceptably referred to as the “JAPA SYNDROME”, as

estimates indicate a staggering tens of thousands have relocated to the USA, Canada, South Africa, and even Gambia over the last two years”.

The young and vibrant Lawmaker contended that, “those leaving Nigeria are not just the poor but middle class who possess skills and workforce, including Bankers, Lecturers, Health care practitioners, Doctors, Nurses, trained manpower, all of whom were trained in Nigeria and emigrating at a time when their services are needed to build a strong and vibrant economy in Nigeria”.

Agbese stressed that, “if this scenario continues with our able minds, brains and skilled personnel leaving, Nigeria may fall into grave crisis in our critical sectors, from education to

healthcare, thereby making a bad situation worse”.

In opposing the motion, Reps Sada Soli (Katsina State) raised a point of order that the motion was in contradiction of the constitutional rights of citizens to freely move in and out of the country.

Reps Ahmadu Jaha (Borno State), however, countered Rep. Soli, saying it was a good motion that needed to be supported overwhelmingly.

According to Jaha, the motion only sought to address fundamental issues which would make Nigeria more habitable for all citizens, particularly, professionals, stressing that it would encourage Doctors, Nurses, Engineers and other Professionals to find Nigeria more conducive.

When the question was eventually pulled by the Speaker, Rep. Tajudeen Abbas, for the House to urge the Federal Government to convene a national summit with key stakeholders to “effectively address the JAPA SYNDROME” and declare a state of emergency on the syndrome; the Lawmakers voted against the motion.

When contacted after the plenary, Rep. Agbese expressed happiness that the motion enjoyed the attention of the whole House, vowing to re-worked the motion at a later date for re-presentation. While commending Speaker Abbas for entertaining all opinions on the motion, Agbese said Members too were generally happy the way the entire proceeding went, as they were all carried along.

Bawa’s suspension: Group calls for overhaul, holistic change of EFCC

From: Femi Oyelola, Kaduna

Forty eight hours after President Bola Tinubu’s suspension of the Chairman of Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC) Abdulrasheed Bawa for alleged fraud and abuse of power

The Arewa Civil Society, Organisation (ACSO) has called for a total overhaul, holistic change or dissolve the Commission

This was made known to the media in a statement signed by its Chairman, Adamu Aminu Musa, and made available to the media in Kaduna yesterday.

ACSO called on the President to replace the Commission with a more reliable anti-graft agency that will stand the taste of time, noting that EFCC has been turned into a money making agency through plea bargains and a weapon for witch hunting of opponents in order to earn back the trust of Nigerians and redeem the image of Nigeria before the world.

The Group while Commending President Bola Tinubu’s suspension of Bawa said the move is a stitch in time that will save a few more than 9, because Bawa has constantly and continually abuse and miss-use his powers and office, engaging in various corrupt practices.

The statement added that as Chairman of the EFCC, Bawa failed to comply with section 7(2) of the establishment Act 2004 which commissions the EFCC to combat economic and financial crimes, thereby

enabling the Commission to prevent, investigate, prosecute and penalize economic and financial crimes.

“We have been vindicated for our earlier stance in calling for the removal of Bawa, now the President has listened, this is very courageous and exemplary, and we must commend him for taking this bold and righteous decision.

“More so, most of our grievances that made us take that stance, are the reasons the DSS invited the suspended Chairman for questioning.

They include various charges of abuse of office, accused of stealing and selling dozens of petrol-bearing trucks confiscated from suspected looters, auctioning them off to his proxies at ridiculous prices while he was in charge of the Port Harcourt office of the EFCC and alleged violation of the code of conduct for public officers by owning properties beyond his legitimate income.”

According to ACSO during Bawa’s tenure as Chairman, the EFCC did not obey court orders, they give a contrary court order that arm twist the bank, running a lot of interferences in corruption investigations in other to stop cases against friends, allies, family and anyone willing to play their dirty games, making money through plea bargain, with backing from his God father and benefactor, the then Anthony General & Minister for Justice, Mallami Abubakar SAN.

“Abdulrasheed Bawa is

Egocentric, at the detriment of Nigerian citizens, he drives the selfish goals of his family, friends and loved ones.

“He was never sincere in his fight against corruption, selectively picking those to be investigated while allowing the bigger fishes to walk around Scot free.

“Making reference to the statement issued by the Government of the United States, that in terms of fighting corruption, the EFCC, have succeeded largely with low-level cases.

“Bawa was a mistake, he was just on a witch hunt on orders of his God father, Mallami Abubakar SAN. In 2021, Bawa’s witch hunting hands were extended to the doorsteps of

President Tinubu himself, who was the then National Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

‘

If not for divine intervention that brought President Tinubu to power, Bawa would have completely succeeded in dragging Tinubu’s personality in the mud.

“He tried so hard to have ordered the arrest of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, 3 consecutive times through the Commission’s Zonal head in Lagos, Mr. Ghali Ahmed.

“Adamu Aminu Musa also added that, whatever crimes Bawa committed, could not have done it alone, therefore his co-perpetrators and those who shielded him should also be invited for questioning by the DSS. “

Abdulrasheed Bawa

Asset Recovery. Ortom, Abounu drag Alia, Benue Govt to Court

From Uche Nnorom, Makurdi

Immediate past governor of Benue State, Samuel Ortom and his Deputy, Engr. Benson Abounu have filed a suit seeking the determination of court whether property legitimately allocated to them as entitlements and remuneration can still be considered as state government assets.

The lawsuit is coming on the heels of the setting up of an Assets Recovery Committee by Governor Hyacinth Alia, a move that is seen by some analysts as being targeted at his predecessor and other members of the previous

Niger community accuses DPP of frustrating Justice

From Yakubu Mustapha Minna

Residents of Eppa Community in Mokwa Local Government Area of Niger state have accused the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) in the Ministry of Justice for allegedly frustrating justice of the charges against the accused persons involved in the ongoing land disputes in the area.

The Community has been in land crisis with Etisheshi community that has led to killing, maiming and destruction of properties worth millions of naira for over four years.

It was reliably gathered that the case file was taken to the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) whom they alleged to have exonerated the accused persons of all the charges leveled against them.

The case which is before the Chief Magistrate Court 2 sitting in Minna which sent the case file to the DPP for advise would be left with no option if the accused persons are exonerated, hence stalling the anticipated justice.

An indigene of Eppa Community who spoke on condition of anonymity to some newsmen in Minna, said they are the original owners of the said land whose people were killed, injured and property destroyed.

administration.

Joined in the suit is the Governor of Benue State,Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, Benue State Government and chairman of the committee Mr Hingah Biem (for himself and on behalf of members of Assets Recovery Committee) as first, second and third defendants respectively.

In Suit No: MHC/199/2023, former Governor Ortom and Engr Abounu are seeking a determination of court whether or not by the combined effect of sections 5(2), 44, 318(1) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), the executive actions and decisions of the governor and

Government of Benue State taken by Ortom and Engr Abounu and the State Executive Council, in good faith before May 29th, 2023, were valid.

The Plaintiffs are also seeking a determination of court whether or not the Governor of Benue State is not bound by the constitutional approvals made by his predecessor.

The Plaintiffs further seek a determination of court whether the Assets Recovery Committee set up by the present Governor of Benue State and headed by Hingah Biem has power to interfere with their rights to own property vested on them by the Benue State Government

at all material times or without following due process.

The Plaintiffs are seeking the following reliefs:

“A declaration that by the combined effect of sections 5(2), 44,318(1) of the 1999 Constitution, the executive actions and decisions of the 1st and 2nd defendants taken by the plaintiffs and the State Executive Council, in good faith before 29/05/2023 were valid.

“A declaration that the Governor of Benue State is bound by the constitutional approvals made by his predecessor (the 1st plaintiff) acting with the State Executive Council.

“A declaration that title in former government property duly transferred and vested in private citizens, including the plaintiffs for service to the State or as part of their entitlements/remuneration cannot still be considered as government property after the date of transfer of the title.”

The plaintiffs further seek a declaration that the Assets Recovery Committee set up by the Governor of Benue State and headed by Hingah Biem has no power to interfere with their rights to own property legitimately vested on them by the Benue State Government at all material times at all or without following due process.

IBBUL matriculates 7,192 students for 2021/22, 2022/23 sessions

Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai has matriculated no fewer than 7,192 students for its 2021/2022 and 2022/2023 academic sessions.

The Vice- Chancellor Professor Abu Kasim Adamu made the disclosure during the matriculation of the newly admitted students who came

through JAMB UTME and DE consisting of regular degree programmes to include 612 Part Time Degree Programme in ICEel and 156 for Long Vacation Training Programme (LVTP)

Professor Adamu warned the newly admitted students into the institution to stay clear of exam malpractice, drug abuse, cultism, sexual harassment or face the wrath of the institution law and regulations, adding that 20,000

applied as their first choice.

Professor Adamu said the university had zero tolerance for any form of crime and indiscipline, advising students to abide by the rules and regulations guiding activities in the school accordingly.

He noted that all it’s courses are accredited hence the university had admitted the first set of students into its medical programmes, adding

that they consist of two set due to coronavirus pandemic and the prolong strike by ASUU.

The Vice Chancellor advised the newly admitted students to made effective use of the university properties and equipment as well report any challenge to Heads of Department and other appropriate offices instead of taking laws into their own hands.

From Yakubu Mustapha Minna

President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu with the former Haed of State General Abdulsalami Abubakar, during his visit to the President at the Presidential Villa yesterday in Abuja.

From Uche Nnorom, Makurdi

A40 year man, Mr. Akpo of Itogo council ward has been arrested by the Benue state police command for raping an eight month pregnant woman in Obi Local Government Area of the state.

Our correspondent gathered that the victim, Mrs. Patient Ona, 25 years, of Irabi Council Ward, Obi LG is due to deliver her baby in the next few weeks when the incident occurred.

The alleged rapist, a motorcyclist according to a source who pleaded anonymity told newsmen that the incident occurred at about 7pm on June 7, 2023.

Man 40, nab for raping pregnant woman in Benue

According to him, Akpo allegedly raped the woman on a bush path when she boarded his motorcycle.

“The woman was going home from the market. She flagged down an okada man and bargained with him to take her home.

“So on their way home, the okada man diverted from the main road to a nearby bush, held her

down and raped her.

“As he was raping her, the woman became unconscious and the motorcyclist, thinking that the woman was dead, dragged and dumped her by a river bank where she laid till the next day.

“In the morning, she woke up and discovered herself in a state of sub-consciousness. She was too weak to stand and so she just laid

there praying for help.”

The source said she was still lying down by the river bank when her relatives who were already searching for her, found her in that state and took her to the hospital while the matter was also reported to the nearest police station leading to the arrest of the culprit.

When contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP.

Catherine Anene, confirmed the incident.

Our correspondent reports that the suspect is now in the Police custody at Headquarters and will be charged to court soon.

As at the time of filing this report, the victim is said to be with a relative in Makurdi after receiving treatment in the hospital at Obi LG area.

Monarch urges Akpabio, Abbas to brace-up for huge task ahead

The Chairman of Yoruba Council of Obas and Chiefs in the 19 Northern States and Abuja, Ambassador Muhammad Arigbagbuwo has urged the new leaders of the 10th National Assembly to brace-up for the huge task ahead of them.

The monarch who stated this yesterday in a statement made available to Journalists in Kaduna congratulate Hon. Tajudeen Abbas and Senator Godswill Akpabio on their well-deserved position as Speaker of the House of Representatives and Senate President of the 10th NASS.

The Royal Father also urged the elected leaders to remember that much is expected of them, saying that they should ensure that there is synergy between the Executive and Legislative Arms, their loyalty must be to Nigerians, he added.

Arigbagbuwo advised the new leadership not to see the victory as a regional victory, but for the country as a whole, he said.

He further advised them to garner wide-range expertise that will benefit the 10th Senate and advance the development of the country.

He described the electoral process that brought in the 10th NASS leadership as seamless and a testament to the deepening of democracy in the country.

Arigbagbuwo who commended the absolute independence of the Legislative Arm of Government, further emphasizing its significance in upholding the principles of

democratic governance.

“No doubt, your emergence is significant going by your track records in various positions of trust which you have held among which was your sterling

performance as Governor of Akwa Ibom State”.

He further described the Deputy Senate President, Sen Jubrin Barau, the Speaker, House of Representatives, Hon Tajudeen

Abbas and his Deputy Hon Benjamin Kalu as experienced lawmakers who will unite Nigeria with the instrumentality of beneficial laws, he said.

While Commending members

of the National Assembly for their wise decisions, the Royal Father appealed to them to offer maximum support to the new leadership.

CLEEN foundation moves to ensure smooth implementation of ACJL in Jigawa

governmental organization popularly known as CLEEN Foundation, launched and trained Civil Society Observatory groups as actors in promotion of criminal justice in Jigawa state.

While delivering her speech during the training held at Haitel hotel Dutse, the communications and media officer of the foundation Anna White Agbo said, a strong team of Civil Society Organization and media was lunched in the state.

She maintained that, the purpose of the training is to establish an observatory

team to monitor implementation of ACJL in Jigawa state.

Anna added that, the team will facilitate exchange of ideas for problem solving between the civil society observatory and criminal Justice actors for smooth implementation of ACJL.

However during the training, major

stakeholders were identifies as well as the process to fully engage them for achieving the desired goals.

Some of the identified stakeholders include chief judge, commissioner of police, Correctional services, NDLEA, NSCDC, traditional and religious leaders among others.

From Mika’il Tsoho, Dutse

Anon

From: Femi Oyelola, Kaduna

Speaker House of Representative, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas (middle), Deputy Speaker, Hon. Benjamin Kalu; Hon. Ahmed Idris Wase and other lawmakers inspect the ongoing renovation of the House of Representatives Chamber which has been under renovation since December 2022, at the National Assembly, yesterday in Abuja. Photo: Mahmud Isa

By Christiana Ekpa

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas has appointed the Former Chief Press Secretary to Femi Gbajabiamila, Musa Krishi as his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity and Dr. Jerry Uhuo as Special Adviser on Policy and Strategy. Abbas in a statement signed by the Speaker and made available to newsmen, Krishi’s appointment takes effect immediately while Dr. Ohio begins on June 15th, 2023.

Until Krishi’s appointment, he served as the Chief Press

Abbas appoints Ex-CPS to Gbajabiamila as Media Adviser, Ohuo as SA on Policy and Strategy

Secretary to the immediate past Speaker of the 9th House, Femi Gbajabiamila from 2019 to 2023.

Krishi has several years of experience in legislative reporting, covering both the House and the Senate at different times for the Daily Trust and is well acquainted with legislative

nuances.

He is a graduate of Mass Communication from the famous Kaduna Polytechnic.

He joined Daily Trust as the Best Graduating Student of Mass Communication in 2012 as part of the newspaper’s policy.

Between 2014 and 2015, he

served as the Assistant Political Editor at the Daily Trust and became a senior correspondent.

Krishi, who hails from Nasarawa State also holds a Postgraduate Diploma in Mass Communication from the Beyero University, Kano(BUK),where he graduated as the best student of

his set with a Distinction. As an associate of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations(NIPR), the Speaker charged him to bring his wealth of experience acquired over the years on board in line with the Legislative Agenda of the 10th House of Representatives.

Tinubu restates priority areas

By Egena Sunday Ode

President Bola Tinubu Thursday in Abuja said the task of turning around Nigeria’s economy from the age-long status of “potential to pragmatic’’ had started with the removal of fuel subsidy and unification of exchange rates, urging the 36 state governors to join the fray.

on

administration’s commitment to improving the lives of Nigerians in a manner that not just reflects our humanity, but encourages compassion towards one another and duly rewards our collective efforts to resolve the social ills that seek to divide us.

no reason to complain. We must harness the growth potential of Nigeria and bring about serious development that will take us from ‘a potential nation’ to a pragmatic economic development in a rapid manner,’’ he noted.

devt, seeks govs’ support Gov. Bago commiserates with Kwara Govt, people over boat mishap

From Yakubu Mustapha, Minna

Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umar Bago has commiserated with the Government and people of Kwara state over the boat mishap that claimed 103 lives.

Governor Umaru Bago in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim expressed shock and concern over the disaster that claimed lives in some communities in Kwara State, bordering Mokwa local government area of Niger State.

He commended the efforts of Mokwa local government council Chairman and the Acting Director General of the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA) for taking necessary steps to rescue some people.

The Governor however advised the people especially those around riverine communities to ensure the use of live jackets when boarding a boat and avoid midnight boarding and overcrowding of boats.

About 33 dead bodies have been recovered so far while rescue mission is said to be ongoing, just as the affected communities are Ebu, Dzaka, Para and Kpada all under Patigi Emirate Council in Kwara State.

According to report, the boat that capsized conveyed wedding guests and was said to be returning them from Egboti community in Mokwa local government area of Niger State to the neighbouring Kwara State between two and three o’clock in the morning.

Inaugurating the National Economic Council (NEC), an advisory body comprising the 36 state Governors, CBN Governor, and other stakeholders, at the State House, President Tinubu listed eight priority areas for urgent attention and called for collective frameworks that will stimulate a buoyant economy that meets the needs of the poor and vulnerable.

The President assured the governors that the administration would address the issues that devalue the lives of Nigerians, with a focus on security, economy, jobs, agriculture, infrastructure, monetary policy, and fuel subsidy.

“It is worthy of note that the monthly meeting of NEC chaired by Vice President Kashim Shettima has remained officially the economic platform for robust dialogue among the federal government, the 36 state governors, the CBN, and other key stakeholders.

“In my inaugural speech of May 29th, 2023, I expressed this

“I also listed the principles that will guide our administration and it is as follows: to be impartial and govern according to the constitution and ensure the rule of law; to defend the nation from terror and all forms of criminality; to promote economic growth and development through job creation, food security and putting an end to poverty; to prominently feature women and youths in all our activities; to take proactive steps such as championing a credit culture and; to discourage corruption while strengthening the effectiveness and efficiency of various anti-corruption agencies,’’ the President said.

President Tinubu noted that policies and programmes of the government will be driven by compassion for the less privileged, and for more inclusivity, women and youths will be involved in the design and implementation of issues that impact their lives.

“It is evident that the task of growing our economy is enormous but you and I asked for it. We campaigned for it, we even danced for it, we begged for it, so we have

President Tinubu urged NEC to stimulate ideas, through robust discussions, that will improve the livelihood of Nigerians, while highlighting the exigency for interventions on poverty.

“Members of this country are behind us, they want reform and they want it quick to impact their lives,’’ he added.

Rallying the governors for national development, President Tinubu said, “Collaboration is not a crime, please let’s do it.’’

The President noted that the three tiers of government will need to be involved in economic development, including the Local Government Councils, in order to ensure inclusiveness, collectivity, and ownership of policies and programmes.

“The National Economic Council was established by the provision of the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as amended. As one of the key bodies of the Federal Government, NEC has the mandate to advise the President on the economic affairs of the federation on appropriate measures for coordination of economic plans

and programmes of the government Ministries, Departments, and Agencies,’’ he said.

The President emphasized that significant steps had been taken by ending the fuel subsidy and unifying the foreign exchange rate.

“This government will continue to transform the fortunes of our nation and bring about unprecedented development through good governance. We are committed to sustainable initiatives and programmes that will stimulate the rejuvenation of the economy without causing inflation.

“The plans and ideas we have presented, underscore our confidence and ability to meet the challenges of the day and pave the way for a better future,’’ President Tinubu said.

APC Kogi guber 2023: Ododo,wants court dismiss suit against him

By Vivian Okejeme, Abuja

The Candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the November 11, 2023, governorship election in Kogi State, Usman Ododo, has asked a Federal High Court in Abuja to dismiss a suit seeking his disqualification from the race.

Ododo, through his lawyer, Musa Abdullahi, SAN, told the Court that, contrary to the allegations in the suit, he resigned legitimately from the employment of Kogi State as required by law and thus eminently qualified for the forthcoming poll.

He maintained that he broke

no law at the time he picked the Expression of Interest form of his party and also at the time he stood for the primary election and won.

According to him, he tendered his resignation letter on March 8, 2023, through the office of the State Governor and that same was received by the appropriate body the same day.

Relying on section 306 of the 1999 Constitution, he posited that whether his resignation was acknowledged, accepted or not, it had started taking effect from the date of submission of the letter.

Ododo said that the plaintiff in the suit could not contradict

his claim of resignation with any documentary evidence, especially with pay slips or salary payment.

Besides, the APC Governorship candidate argued that the plaintiff jumped the gun in the way and manner he instituted the suit, adding that the cause of action had not arisen at the time the case was filed.

He therefore asked the court to rely on his 19 paragraphs affidavit and dismiss the case of the plaintiff for being baseless, lacking in merit and incompetent.

The position of the governorship candidate was adopted by APC through its counsel, Abdulwahab

Mohammed, SAN, who prayed that the suit be dismissed with substantial cost.

On his part, the plaintiff, through his counsel, DanielEbune, relied on 16 exhibits in support of the Originating Summons/case.

He insisted that Ododo breached sections 20, 21, 124, 147 of the 1999 Constitution and section 159 of the Evidence Act and urged the Judge to invoke the provisions of the law to disqualify the gubernatorial candidate.

Justice Obiora Egwuatu, after taking arguments from the lawyers, fixed July 18 to deliver judgment in the matter.

President Tinubu

By Maryam Abeeb

As the Federal Government, under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, mulls sale of the NNPCL’s shares to further deregulate the nation’s oil giant and reposition it as a full blast private sectordriven entity to maximise more profits and also help it to enjoy a healthy existence, a key role player in the energy sector, Alhaji Muhammad Saleh Hassan, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to ensure that the current GCEO of the NNPCL, Malam Mele Kiari, remains in the vanguard of the reformation.

Bauchi Government partners Institutions to address heath sector challenges

From Ahmad Muhammad, Bauchi

Bauchi State Governor

Senator Bala Abdulkadir

Moluhammed has explained that his administration will continue to partner with various Federal health Institutions in ensuring that his administration succeeded in addressing the challenges in the health sector.

The Governor, who spoke when he received the Medical Director of the Federal Medical Center (FMC), Azare, Dr. Abubakar Daudu Katagum and his management staff at the Government House in Bauchi.

He said he inherited a lot of challenges in the health sector when he came into office in 2019, which he had worked hard to address.

The Governor commended FMC Azare for its support in reinvigorating the health sector of the state and pledged his administration’s support to the facility.

He assured that his administration will partner with the management of Federal College of Education, Jama’are to reinvigorate the education sector of the state.

Gov Bala urged the management to employ and admit indigenes of Bauchi State into the College so as to reduce to the barest minimum, the high rate of unemployment among the people of the state.

The Chief Medical Director of FMC, Azare, Dr. Abubakar Daudu Katagum requested the Governor’s support towards the continuous success of the health institution which he noted is serving the people of Bauchi State and other neighboring States.

Tinubu still needs Mele Kyari’s midas touch - Skymark boss

Hassan, who is the Chairman of Skymark Energy and Power Ltd, stressed that Kyari had the requisite professional skill, acumen, experience and track records of innovation, reformation and achievements in the industry to deliver the expected result with credibility.

Hassan also advised the president to retain Kyari as the head of the oil conglomerate “not only because of his plethora of achievements so far, but also because he is an expert, a technocrat and core professional who understands the dynamics of the industry and can deliver results than a new entrant who has never risen to his position could deliver.

The Skymark boss stated in a chat with pressmen in Abuja, that Tinubu had a knack for professionalism and competence in appointment of people into positions and would never sacrifice Kyari’s capacity on the altar of any sentiment by replacing him in the impending

NNPCL’s reformation.

Hassan said that as the president of Nigeria, he should do more by maintaining and even exceeding the momentum.

“We have a president that believes in competence and professionalism. He created the path and treaded it tenaciously in Lagos with appointment of professionals and competent hands into sensitive positions. This paid off when the technocrats and think thanks delivered with optimal results which earned his government a huge popularity and credibility in terms of performance.

He added: “At this juncture, it’s also sacrosanct for him to maintain technocrats and think tank that have been in sensitive positions before he came on board and not remove them in the name of changes. If a professional, technocrat and think tank in positions has done very well with good track records, there is no need to remove him, especially now that

the president is looking for such hands to bring on board. You don’t change a winning team.

According to him, Kyari also worked assiduously with Buhari for the removal of fuel subsidy which, under his watch as the head of the NNPCL came to reality under Tinubu as president.

He stated that kyari fought fuel theft in the Niger Delta and halted the shenanigan.

“Following Kyari’s crucial roles in the realisation of fuel subsidy removal vision, Tinubu should carry him along with the Economic Advisory Council, bring them together and design a way forward with a view to reducing or eliminating the current hardship occasioned by the removal.

While also speaking on the sale of the NNPCL shares which is in the offing, Hassan noted:

“If the Federal Government intends to further deregulate the NNPCL by selling its shares, all it needs to do is bring Mele Kyari and his Economic

Advisory Council together to achieve the purpose. Such a move can only augur well if Kyari, a strong stakeholder and initiator of ideas, innovations and strategies that eventuated in the transformation of the NNPC to NNPCL remains in the saddle and put in the vanguard of the move.”

Hassan who advised against irrational change of leadership in the oil company said: “If there is any new way that the new administration of President Tinubu would want to effect any further transformation in the NNPCL, bringing in another person at the helm of affairs other than Kyari would not augur well because it will slow down the process and hamper achievement of the purpose.

Hassan however urged Kyari to maintain his performance and achievements frequency and do better, especially now that the Economic Advisory Council is considering sale of the NNPCL shares.

Kano govt speaks on government house round about demolition, to build new one

From Mustapha Adamu, Kano

Following the outpouring criticism that followed the demolition of the monumental Kano State Government House roundabout, the state government said it is done in the interest of the public.

The demolition was scathingly criticized by the residents, including supporters of the New Nigeria People’s Party, NNPP and Kwankwasiyya

movement.

In a swift reaction, the state government, in a statement by Sanusi Bature DawakinTofa, Chief Press Secretary to the governor of Kano state, Abba Yusuf said it consulted professional engineers before taking the decision.

In the statement, the government explained that the engineers had ascertained to the fact that the roundabout construction was substandard

and has the tendency to collapse between 2023 and 2024.

It added that ;”this is because it is done with used foam work and too much sandy materials instead of normal cement concrete.

“Also, the structure is too tall to be placed in front of the government house as it defaces its main gate which blocks the view for security surveillance.

“Additionally, it poses traffic

challenges around the area because of its size, blocking the view of drivers accessing all routes linked through the roundabout,” the government said.

The statement however stated that the government would immediately rebuild what it called a befitting roundabout at the spot of the demolished one to ensure visibility of the government house entrance and safety of motorists.

From left: Immediate past Commissioner for Finance in Gombe State, Muhammad Gambo; Commissioner for Finance, Ondo State and incoming Chairman,ForumofStateCommissionersforFinanceofNigeria,WaleAkinterinwa;andtheImmediatepastCommissionerforFinance,BenueState andtheoutgoingChairmanoftheForum,DavidOlofuduringforum’smeetingandhanding-overandinaugurationofthenewchairmanattheforum’s secretariat in Abuja on Thursday (8/6/23).

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Russia’s roadmap to Nigeria, ECOWAS and Africa

By Professor Maurice Okoli

The growing US-China rivalry and Russia-Western allies’ geopolitical tension have shaken the international peace and security system’s foundation and significantly shaped Russia’s diplomacy with Africa. While that seems to be the general trend across the board, the Federal Republic of Nigeria is also getting highly renewed attention from Moscow. Historically Nigeria, like a number of African states, has had relations from the Soviet times and still maintains traditional relationships after the Soviet’s collapse in 1991. Nevertheless, it is interesting to explicitly note that a new wave of democratic change has also blown all over Africa. We can convincingly point to the fact that old ideological friends of the Soviet Union changed camps and transformed in favour of the capitalist-democratic model, in line with the changing political dynamics inside Africa and around the world.

In pursuit of its foreign policy agenda, the Soviet Union maintained diplomatic relations between Nigeria and many on the continent. There were 48 diplomatic offices across Africa. Nigeria established diplomatic relations on November 25, 1960, after it had attained political independence from Britain. The mission was formally opened in 1961.

There are noticeable bits of historical landmarks between Nigeria and Russia. Olusegun Obasanjo visited Russia in 2001. That was followed by Muhammadu Buhari in 2019. However, in June 2009, Dmitry Medvedev, president of Russia, visited Nigeria for the first time and held topmost state-level talks on possible nuclear energy, oil exploration and military cooperation. There were talks also focusing on establishing a petrochemical plant in Nigeria. There was also a declaration on principles of friendly relations and partnership between Nigeria and the Russian Federation.

Russia’s second-largest oil company, and privately controlled Lukoil, has gone back and forth these several years with plans to expand its operations in Nigeria and several West African countries. There has been a long-dead silence after Gazprom, the Russian energy giant, signed an agreement with the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) on the exploration and exploitation of gas reserves with a new joint venture company known as NiGaz Energy Company.

Despite the complexities and obstacles, Nigeria is still high on Russia’s agenda for reviving multifaceted business ties, at least to share the market and take up opportunities similar to external players such as the United States, Europe and China. We sincerely acknowledge efforts by Russians now gearing up to revamp the Ajaokuta Iron and Steel Complex, which was abandoned after the collapse of the Soviet Union three decades ago, and further take up energy, oil and gas projects in Nigeria, as well as facilitate trade between Nigeria and Russia.

Further to the above, there could be specific points of focus in the current relations: The strategic point of convergence between Moscow and Abuja is stability in the West African region, which is vital for both countries in their interests. It could best be achieved through ensuring

security, boosting economic development, expanding tentacles in energy and infrastructure projects and raising cooperation with the regional bloc – the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

Suffice it to say that Russia’s passion for humanitarian cooperation is strongly recommended here. This will help sustain its traditional sphere of influence in the western region of Africa. The main reasons are that Nigeria is considered the economic powerhouse. Ghana now hosts the headquarters of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), spanning 54 states over the next years with the potential to unite more than 1.3 billion people in a $2.5 trillion economic bloc. It has the potential to generate a range of benefits through supporting trade creation, structural transformation, productive employment and poverty reduction. The AfCFTA opens up more opportunities for both local African and foreign investors from around the world.

Both African and foreign policy experts argue that African countries need to support meaningful dialogue and take steps toward addressing the economic dimensions in the continent and this must necessarily reflect in their relations with potential external partners while, at the same time, maintaining their territorial integrity and political independence. We strongly believe that African economic diplomacy and partnerships could be raised to appreciably new levels the Russia-Africa relations. This is where I shared my views with both foreign and our African experts that these measures will contribute tremendously, in pursuit of the economic integration of our continent, towards the attainment of the well-known vision: Agenda 2063, the Africa We Want.

Egypt, Nigeria, and South Africa are the biggest economies on the continent, and Nigeria, for example, plays a major role in the West African region. The Nigerian economy is based on private enterprise, but the state participates in many ways. That is why Russia has to redirect its focus to the private sector to enhance its economic profile. In this case, Nigeria, Ghana, Cote d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast) and other countries have enormous potential to cooperate with Russia in the West African region. According to reports, on different occasions, former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo expressed keen interest in developing bilateral cooperation and spoke frankly about the need to increase the presence of Russian companies in Nigeria.

Three key factors are at work here for Russia to get a foothold in West Africa. First, Russia is seen as the provider of security, and Russia’s defence capabilities continue to play a crucial role in maintaining stability in the region. One more point here is the French-speaking Sahel-5 (Burkina et al.) is nearly under the control of Russia. Reports pointed out that cooperation among forces from the so-called G5 countries – Burkina Faso, Chad, Mali, Mauritania and Niger – remains difficult given the anti-French sentiments in the country, forcing underequipped local armies to quickly step up their game against Islamist rebels in the volatile Sahel region.

With high interest, Russians are consistently pushing for military-

Women: The first line of defence

By Doris Ochei

Yes, women remain the first line of defence, both at home and outside because everybody knows their enviable place in society. Therefore, this is a clarion call to action, there could not have been a better time. The time is now. So, as we step out, let all of us, (men, children, corporate bodies, government, non-profit organizations, fate based groups, social organizations) think women. They are the key to building a better society.

It is usually said that women are God’s most precious gift to humanity. But I think women are much more than just a special gift to mankind; they are the salt of the world. And it is no secret that everyone, including their husbands and children, know this. That is why the old and famous saying that “behind every successful man, there stands a woman” still resonates even in this age and time. I must say that I am very much aware that successful men, a male child and every man for that matter that appreciate a good woman, believe in this obvious truism. The inescapable question therefore is: what would the world be like without a touch of women? Aside reproduction, their selfless act of loving, a woman’s unmatched initiative, diligence and care giving, the five essentials that are integral parts of an average woman’s life and mission on earth, there is also a widely held belief that the world would grind to a halt without women.

In truth, women are beautiful, loving, compassionate, appreciative, kind, understanding, futuristic, forgiving and patient. However, difficult situations like war, displacement, social strife, domestic violence, inequality, cultural inhibitions, neglect and cash worries can sometimes drain a woman’s spirits and change her good nature. The widely held view that women are the backbone of families, organizations, communities and nations is an incontestable fact, and I think the world knows. They give birth and nurture children and families. Women also build communities, provide good leadership, engender hope, sustain development, inspire change and strive towards empowerment for all, irrespective of gender or age. That is why the saying: “If you educate a woman, you educate a nation” has not lost its shine even with the

passage of time. It is the reality, and as citizens, we must work hand in hand with our mothers, sisters and daughters to create the world that we need. And to build that world that serves the interest of everyone, mankind must provide education, empowerment, protection, appreciation and support for the womenfolk; and humanity must also do everything possible to engage them meaningfully. Again, engagement is key; and I will say it again even at the risk of sounding repetitive.

This mindset or disposition, I must say, actually inspired my last social intervention in Onicha-Olona, one of the towns in Aniocha North Local Government Area of Delta State. And that experience will remain unforgettable for many reasons. It all started like this: during one of our visits (my husband and I) to his ancestral home in Onicha-Olona, I needed to buy some common condiments for the family. So, I was directed to the town’s major market. When I got there, I was shocked at the environment and the level of decay. The women were trading in the open under the scorching sun. Apart from the inconveniences of harsh weather conditions and the unstructured space, the women were exposed to risks of a car running into them and other dangers. As a matter of fact, trading was actually taking place at the centre of the town, known as Abua Ano. The condition was appalling, to say to the least. To my surprise, I later discovered that these women had been in that difficult condition for about 20 years. Immediately, I called my husband, and I told him that I wanted to build a befitting market for those long-suffering women because I appreciated the fact that they deserved better. I also called the then President-General of OnichaOlona Development Union, OODU, Mr. Okey Aligbe who encouraged me. To say that the market was in a terribly poor physical condition would be an understatement. The market was in a dilapidated shape as there were no functional infrastructure. As a matter of fact, the original market location had been overtaken by weeds and trees. Sadly, the old and decrepit market remained unattended to. Therefore, traders and customers converged on that Abu Ano spot every market day for business activities, and for many years, it remained the community’s centre of commercial activities because there was no alternative. It was an awful sight, and I felt it was completely and utterly unacceptable for

technical cooperation. For Nigeria, Russian military equipment supply could be a high-value addition to the fight against the notorious Boko Haram, which threatens West African states. Many experts say conflict resolution should be coordinated and undertaken within the framework of multilateralism, which, of course, falls within Russia’s interest in forging relations with respective Security Councils of ECOWAS, the African Union and the United Nations.

Second, an opportunity to have market access to the West African region if potential Russian investors decide to locate some kind of production with the rules and regulations put in place under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Unlike Russia, United States investors look forward to exploring several opportunities in the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), a policy signed by African countries to make the continent a single market. Russian investors could similarly pursue public-private partnerships that support Russian and African businesses, including women-owned and led Small- and Medium-Scale Enterprises (SMEs).

Third, to carefully look at optional ways of utilizing civil society and private sector organizations. If Russia wants to play a pivotal role in advancing its economic influence, it has to navigate, leverage or make inroads into the private sector. Understanding these factors is crucial in formulating policies and appropriate mechanisms for realizing them. Worth to say that efficiency and effectiveness must reflect in its policy implementation. On the other hand, the shifting geopolitical landscape dictates new refined strategies. It also implies the ability to choose the multi-alignment dimension of countries rather than just dealing with a few in the region.

Notwithstanding multiple challenges with pursuing general policy goals in Africa, I would also note here in this article that Russia has maintained a traditional friendship, particularly with Nigeria and broadly with West Africa, so it is important that some focus be given to issues raised here at the forthcoming Russia-Africa summit. The critical focus areas are agriculture, energy, oil and gas, telecommunications, healthcare, transport, financing, marine exploration, aerospace, and other areas where Russian technology can have a comparative advantage.

Many Russian companies such as Lukoil, Gazprom, Rosatom and Rosneft are some of Russia’s energy and power industries actively engaged in Nigeria, Egypt, Angola, Algeria and Ethiopia. It must be stressed that in 2018, “Nigerian oil and gas Exploration Company Oranto Petroleum announced that it would be cooperating with Russia’s largest oil producer, Rosneft, to develop 21 oil assets across 17 African countries.” Unfortunately, this has not materialized due to Rosneft’s lack of interest in doing business in Africa. Additionally, Russian Rosatom has signed nuclear energy agreements with 18 African countries, including Nigeria, Egypt, Ethiopia and Rwanda, to address the power needs of those countries.

*By Professor Maurice Okoli is a fellow at the Institute for African Studies.

people to function under such conditions, no matter their circumstances.

Since we are all in agreement with the fact that progress is not possible without women, I did not spend much time rethinking a trading arena that offered no meaning for the mass of the people. Right there and then, I resolved to mobilize resources towards rebuilding and making the market habitable. A few months after, God answered me by providing the will and the wherewithal to fulfil my promise.

I rebuilt the market and eventually tarred a feeder road linking a local market

For women in the hinterland, what is life without a functional market where goods and services are exchanged?

To the glory of God, I am currently expanding the frontiers of my non-governmental organization, Doris Amaka Ochei Foundation, (DAO) to build additional projects, engage more women, build capacity, provide micro credit, pay WAEC, NECO and JAMB fees of less privileged people around us, engender hope and assist with other social services within and outside my catchment area. I hasten to add that I have also extended some of these social services to Ubulu-Uku, my home town in Aniocha South Local Government Area, also in Delta State. In Ubulu-Uku, we successfully organized empowerment programme for Garri producers and we are currently paying light bills for many people because community billing method had become a real pain in the neck for many of the town dwellers. In addition, we constructed 18 solar powered boreholes, and these boreholes are ameliorating the challenges of water scarcity and improving life.

I know that my efforts so far is like a drop of water in the ocean because there are still many areas of need, not just in Onicha-Olona and Aniocha North Local Government Area of Delta State and my community but everywhere one turns. On our part as an organization and a people conscious of history, we have resolved to keep moving, no matter the discomfort or pain. We are also prioritizing our agenda as events unfold because we fully appreciate the fact that we can significantly impact on the lives of the people we meet by continuing to be focused and conscious.

*Dr. Ochei, a Development Expert and Gender Advocate, writes from Lagos.

Akpabio: Unveiling the 10th National Assembly Senate President

By Abba Dukawa

Senator Godswill Akpabio will be remembered in the outgoing electoral season for his exemplary act of political maturity and nationalist inclinations. He stepped down on the night of the primaries for the president, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, the eventual winner of the APC Presidential Primaries.

Senator Godswill Akpabio led 10 National Assembly came at the critical situation as the country face an economic malaise that has consigned millions of Nigerians to “Multidimensional Poverty” even as a few ones continue to enjoy the nation’s wealth.

For the sake of cordial relationship between executive and legislative the legislators should not compromise they roles which the constitution vested. Among them to deliberate upon matters of national importance, public issues, problems and needs is an important function of a modern legislature.

They also performs critical function of overseeing the Executive and ensuring government spending aligns with Legislative intents. It is vital for them to ensuring that the wishes and aspirations of all Nigerians are considered during the lawmaking process.

The country and citizens will not forget in hurry how 9th National Assembly leaders jeopardize Nigeria’s Future granted any careless executive loan request both domestic and foreign debts within blinking of eyes.

They inability to cultivate to ensure financial discipline and prudent management of the nation economy has the soaring nation’s debts. Where the country using 50% of its revenue to service its debts! Nigeria’s rising debt profile is fast becoming a worrisome trend. Debt servicing gulps N7.04 trillion under immediate past administration.

Senator Godswill Akpabio’s emergence came after hotly contesting between him and former Zamfara state Governor Abdulaziz Yari. Godswill Akpabio, has

emerged as the Senate President of the 10th Assembly was sworn in as the Senate President after garnering 63 votes, leaving his closet rival Yari to 46 votes.

One of the things that endear people to Akpabio is his constant smile. You’d hardly catch him frowning, no matter what was going wrong. The former governor is also known for his oratory prowess, intelligence and poise. He is always displaying confidence and great self-esteem.

He is one of the few lucky Nigerians born with a silver spoon who have been in governance and at the helm of affairs for a long time. Akpabio is perceived to be from a strong political dynasty; his grandfather, Okuku Udo Akpabio, was the Warrant Chief in Ikot Ekpene province in the old Nigeria.

10th Senate President Political journey. In 2002, he was appointed as the Commissioner for Petroleum and Natural Resources by the then Governor Obong Victor Attah in Akwa Ibom State. Between 2002 and 2006, served as a commissioner in three key ministries: Petroleum and Natural Resources, Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, as well as Lands and Housing.

Following his stint as commissioner, Akpabio threw his hat into the ring for the Akwa Ibom governorship election, where he battled with 57 others to clinch the ticket of his then party, the Peoples Democratic Party. Launched with the slogan, “Thy will be done,” Akpabio won the governorship election in 2006 and got re-elected as the number one citizen of Akwa Ibom for the second time in 2011.

Performance as Akwa Ibom Governor.His tenure as Governor, Akpabio’s initiated and completed landmark infrastructure projects, including the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, also known as Nest of Champions, one of the best such facilities in Africa. Constructed strategic flyover bridges, the pipe jacking drainage system in Uyo Metropolis, the Four Points by Sheraton Hotel, Ikot Ekpene and a labyrinth of urban, semi urban and rural road network, all of which added to the transformation of the state’s

development landscape. He patented the phrase ‘uncommon transformation’ by his unprecedented governance deliverables in human and infrastructural development.

In 2013, Akpabio was elected chairman of the PDP Governors Forum. In 2015, he contested and won the Senate seat of the Akwa Ibom North-West Senatorial District to represent the district in the Senate under platform of the PDP. As a first timer against Senate rule, was made a principal officer as the Senate Minority Leader. In August 2018, he resigned as the Senate Minority Leader after announcing his defection to the All Progressives Congress.

In 2019, he was nominated by the former President, Muhammadu Buhari, and screened by the Nigerian Senate for a ministerial appointment and sworn in as Minister for Niger Delta Affairs. In 2022, Akpabio’s ambition went even higher when he resigned his appointment as the minister for Niger Delta Affairs to contest in the presidential primaries of the ruling All Progressives Congress.

Senator Godswill Akpabio will be remembered in the outgoing electoral season for his exemplary act of political maturity and nationalist inclinations. He stepped down on the night of the primaries for the president, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, the eventual winner of the APC Presidential Primaries.

By that display of team spirit, he stood out on that June night at the Eagle Square as an example in commitment to greater goals. He provided a bold example that was followed by other presidential aspirants.

He remain vociferous and courageous campaigned for APC and Tinubu. Akpabio never stood on the fence. He was everywhere together with Adams Oshiomole, Ben Ayade and Omo Agege, they raked in almost a million votes for APC from a PDP dominated region.

Dukawa write in from Kano can be reach at abbahydukawa@gmail.com

Elder abuse and the danger it portends

By Ike Willie-Nwobu

In Africa, Nigeria and the world over, it is important that everyone take the issue of elder abuse seriously.

If people must aspire to a ripe old age, if the world must become a better place where justice and equity guide the affairs of men, then the elderly can neither be abused nor ignored.

As the United Nations celebrates World Elder Abuse Awareness Day on June 15, 2023,the annual commemoration of what is such a vital day and the people that form such a vital demographic provides an opportunity for reflection and resolution.

Africa is a continent steeped in culture and tradition. Even superstition. Perhaps, it is the way Africa stubbornly clings to the past and her links to the ancient ways that feed the false narrative that Africa is a continent steeped in impenetrable darkness.

In Africa, one key institution that is still approached with much respect and even awe is the institution of the family, which is widely recognized as the cradle of life. In the image of a father, a mother and a child or children as the case may be, life takes off in Africa and had never stopped for many years. The whole talk about polygamy and extended families comes from this concept.

The African family, which comes with a history and is steeped in its culture and tradition, also provides an anchor in the society. Men, women, and their children are all protected within the institution of the family. But so are the aged. Those who have paid their dues and are approaching the end of their lives, having seen time take its toll on their minds and bodies.

For those who are elders, wisdom often comes with

age and of age in their lives. But so are challenges. Having lived so many experiences, some good, and some bad, they are usually primed to make worthwhile contributions to the society. However, they are also prone to be neglected and abused.

Between 2000 and 2050,the proportion of the world’s population over 60 years will double from about 11% to about 22%. The absolute number of people aged 60 years and over is expected to increase from 605 million to 2 billion over the same period.

Around 6% of older people in developed countries have experienced some form of maltreatment at home. Abusive acts in institutions include physically restraining residents, depriving them of dignity (by for instance leaving them in soiled clothes) and intentionally providing insufficient care (such as allowing them to develop pressure sores). The maltreatment of older people can lead to serious physical injuries and long-term psychological consequences.

In developing countries, the experiences are sobering. The number of older people who can no longer look after themselves is forecast to quadruple by 2050. Many of the elderly lose their ability to live independently because of limited mobility, frailty, or other physical or mental health problems. Many require some form of long-term care, which can include home nursing, community care and assisted living, residential care and long stays in hospitals.

The World Elder Abuse Awareness Day(WEAAD) was Initiated by the International Network for the Prevention or Elder Abuse and World Health Organization at the United Nations.

The purpose of WEAAD Is to provide an opportunity

for communities around the world to promote a deeper understanding of abuse and neglect of older persons by raising awareness of the cultural, social, economic and demographic processes affecting elder abuse and neglect.

In addition, WEAAD is supporting the United Nations International Plan of Action acknowledging the significance of elder abuse as a public health and human rights issue. WEAAD serves as a call-to-action for individuals, organizations, and communities to raise awareness about elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation.

The abuse elders suffer from may range from caregiver neglect, emotional/psychological abuse, financial exploitation/fraud, general abuse, neglect, and physical.

In preventing elder abuse, it is important that the fields of medicine, gerontology, health services, psychology, and policy all come together to build a strong support for elders.

In Africa, Nigeria and the world over, it is important that everyone take the issue of elder abuse seriously. If people must aspire to a ripe old age, if the world must become a better place where justice and equity guide the affairs of men, then the elderly can neither be abused nor ignored.

When the elderly are free from abuse, they can contribute their bit to building a world that is in dire need of their wisdom.

To do otherwise and fail to enshrine a culture of love and respect for the elderly would be to risk a demographic disaster that would have far-reaching consequences.

No country in the world can afford it. Certainly, not Nigeria.

Ike Willie-Nwobu writes in from Abuja

By Christiana Ekpa

The Director-General of the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS), Prof. Abubakar O. Sulaiman extended his congratulations to the newly elected President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, CON, and his Deputy, Senator Barau Jibrin, CON. He also congratulated the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt Hon. Tajudeen Abbss,Ph.D. and his Deputy, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, on their victory in the recent Presiding Officers’ election of the 10th National Assembly.

In a statement released on Tuesday, Prof. Sulaiman described their election as a remarkable achievement and a testament to their exceptional leadership and invaluable contributions to the development of Nigeria’s parliamentary

Bauchi Governor to partner NCS, NDLEA

From Ahmad Muhammad, Bauchi

Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Muhammed has promised that his administration will partner the Nigetia Correctional Service, NCS, to decongest the various Correctional Centres in the state.

He also pledged to partner with National Drugs Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, to address the problems of fake and counterfeit drugs and to reduce drugs addiction and abuse among youths in the state.

The Governor made the pledge when he received in audience, the newly posted Zonal Coordinator in charge of the Zone C Nigerian Correctional Service, Yahaya Adamu Sambo.

He stressed on the need to make the Centers as the name implies so that all the immates will come out better and reformed after serving their various terms.

Governor Bala assured that his administration will continue to support the Correctional Service in its efforts to make lives of the inmates better through improved facilities and other things needed.

The Zonal Coordinator of the Nigerian Correctional Service in charge of Zone C, Yahaya Adamu Sambo said he will partner the Bala Mohammed led administration in ensuring the success of his tenure.

Prof Sulaiman congratulates Akpabio, Abbas, reaffirms NILDS’ commitment to technical support

institution.

He expressed confidence that, under their capable leadership, the Legislature would be significantly strengthened to fulfill its constitutional responsibilities.

Prof. Sulaiman assured them

Yakassai,

By Egena Sunday Ode

Kano politician and elderstatesman, Alhaji Tanko Yakasai and the former Protem National Chairman of the All Preogressives Congress (APC), Chief Bisi Akande, were guests of President Bola Tinubu on Thursday at the Aso Rock Preaidential Villa, Abuja.

In separate interviews with newsmen, the two elderstatemen said they were at the seat of power to greet the president following his inauguration on May 29.

that the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS), as the only statutory agency mandated to provide capacity building and related support to the Legislature, was fully prepared to offer sustained technical

and specialized assistance to their offices and the National Assembly as a whole.

He further stated, “We have full confidence that, under their guidance, the National Assembly will serve as a beacon of hope and progress. Their strong leadership

skills, sound judgment, and unwavering commitment to democratic principles will guide the National Assembly in addressing the pressing issues facing our nation and ensuring that the voices of the people are heard.”

Akande visit Tinubu in Aso Rock

President on petrol subsidy removal, others.

According them, it was not yet time to give Tinubu any advice as he has been taking the right steps since inauguration.

On his part, Yakassai said he had brought his family to greet the President in reciprocity of an earlier visit by the him before his election.

Asked how he would rate the President so far, he said:

“So far, so good, I’m justified, I’m glad that he has proven his worth and I’m sure in the next six months to one year,

everybody in Nigeria will come to testify that the administration of Asiwaju is different from all the administrations they have witnessed before.”

He urged Nigerians to team up and pray for the success of the present administration, adding that only politicians can change the fortunes of Nigeria positively.

Also speaking, Akande commended Tinubu for actions so far, saying that Nigerians should expect nothing less than good governance from him

On his assessment of his first two weeks in office and whether he offered him any advice, the elderstatesman said:

“It’s not yet time for advice. We are watching him do good. Nigerians are happy. By the time we hear any complaint, the time will be ripe enough for giving president advice.

“I merely watch the perception of the country, very excellent. People are happy with him. And that is why I boldly come during day time.”

L-R: Osun State governor Ademola Adeleke; Kogi State governor Yahaya Bello; Kwara State governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, and Nasarawa State Governor Engr. Abdullahi Sule, at the Inauguration of the National Economic Council (NEC), Meeting at the Presidential Villa Abuja yesterday

Forgery: Court docks Udeze, Vernimbe, Ogunmodebe in Osogbo

From: Femi Oyelola, Kaduna

Osun State Magistrate Court sitting in Osogbo the State capital yesterday arraigned a member of the Action Alliance (AA), Mr Kenneth Udeze over alleged forgery.

Mr Udeze was arraigned alongside Messrs James Vernimbe James and Adeloye

Ogunmodede.

The trio was standing trial for alleged forgery and conspiracy. The suspects were alleged to have substituted the name of Adekunle Rufai Omoaje who emerged as the governorship candidate of the party in the state in 2018.

The court had earlier ordered the three accused persons to be remanded in Ilesa correctional

facility.

At the resumed hearing of the case yesterday, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the Police were cross examined.

During cross examination, Mr Gbenga Omosebi, a police inspector told the court that he investigated the matter from the Zone 11 commands of the Nigeria Police Force.

Also, representatives of INEC noted that the governorship primary election of the AA held in 2018 at Fun Field events centre was duly monitored by INEC contrary to claim that the party did not hold a governorship primary election.

The presiding Magistrate adjourned the matter to 21st September, 2023 for further hearing.

•Hail

By Ikechukwu Okaforadi

The Labour Party (LP) in Osun State has suspended the National Legal Adviser, Samuel Akingbade and State Women Leader, Susan Ojo.

The duo were suspended by the party for attempting to create a faction within LP’s fold in the state.

The decision to suspend both Akingbade and Ojo was made known by the Osun LP Chairman, Adebayo Bello at a press conference organised by the party on Thursday in Osogbo.

Bello also disclosed that the executives have suspended 11 local government chairmen of the party for attending a meeting with the intention of creating a faction in Osun LP.

Labour Party suspends National Legal Adviser, Women Leader

He accused the suspended members of lending support to jeopardise the petition of the LP presidential candidate, Peter Obi, in the 2023 general election.

Peter Obi is challenging the victory of President Bola Tinubu currently at the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal.

“The intention is to create parallel structures at the national level and the states to lend support to the dirty agenda of scuttling the legal struggle of reclaiming the mandate of Mr Peter Obi and Datti Baba-Ahmed in the 2023

presidential election.

“We observe that if the activities of these undemocratic persons are not checked on time, it will either weaken the Labour Party structure in Osun or collapse it totally.

“Barr Samuel Akingbade (National Legal Adviser), Mrs. Susan Ojo (State Women Leader) and 11 chairmen of the local government of our party in Osun State who participated in a meeting organised by the National Legal Adviser and suspended State Woman Leader are hereby suspended from the

party indefinitely.

“These members stand suspended for anti-party activities and gross misconduct. This decision will be forwarded to the National Working Committee of the Labour Party and other relevant bodies, including all security agencies, for further actions.”

He added that the affected officials had wanted to hide behind the crisis rocking LP at the national level to create a faction in the state.

“Having discovered

the intention of the affected officers, LP State Executives met on Thursday, May 11, where they resolved to support the National Working Committee led by Barrister Julius Abure and suspend those found working against the party’s unity.”

Bello assured that the LP executives in the state would continue to work towards ensuring that the party remained a united and formidable political platform capable of producing visionary and transformational leaders.

Imo was paradise, Uzodinma turned it to valley of death – PDP

By Musa Baba Adamu

The Imo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), on Thursday, countered Governor Hope Uzodinma’s claims that he met the state in a cemetery when he became governor in 2020.

The party insisted that Imo State was a paradise before Uzodinma assumed office.

The opposition party, while reacting to Uzodinma’s claims in a statement made available to journàlists by its Publicity Secretary, Collins Opurozor, in Owerri, regretted that Imo State, which knew no violence, is now a city of blood and a valley of death.

Recall that Uzodinma, during an appearance on national television, said that when he assumed office as Imo State governor, he met a moribund state that was in the cemetery, and he exhumed the body.

But PDP, in a swift reaction, disagreed, saying Uzodinma, who was charmed by the glory he saw, while taking his oath of office, vowed to continue with all the lofty initiatives of the past PDP administration. But unfortunately, he has now plunged Imo into a cemetery.

PDP statement reads, “More than half of Imo territory is presently under the occupation of bandits, terrorists, kidnappers, and other non-state actors who levy death upon Imo people day after day. Farmers have abandoned their farmlands and the logical outcome has been an unprecedented rise in poverty and starvation, including crime.

“It is shameful that while Imo people are slaughtered daily by terrorists, the only thing Senator Uzodinma thinks of is

how to politicise and profit from the unfortunate situation. It is irresponsible that a government would seek to frame its perceived foes with insecurity, which it has an obligation to solve.

“Equity demands that Senator Uzodinma should not present himself as a candidate in the forthcoming governorship election, since he hails from Orlu Zone, which has held power for twenty years in the last twentyfour years. Those backing his

inordinate ambition do not mean well for the state, and they must stop forthwith.

“Worse still, the local government system, which is a mechanism put in place by law to expand and sustain the democratic space and to spread democratic values, has been destroyed in Imo. This is a huge tragedy! Imo is a state that has over seventy percent of its entire population living in rural areas. Yet, the only channel

through which governance can be delivered to the people has been completely run aground.

“Senator Uzodinma must, without any further delay, tell the people the whereabouts of the N206 billion he has received from the local governments.

“Furthermore, this government, which has made incessant borrowings a state policy, has now sent Imo into irredeemable debt slavery. Make no mistake, debt instruments are

supposed to be development tools that governments deploy to raise the financial and socio-economic well-being of their entities.

“The implication is that loans are invariably obtained to invest in those programs, initiatives, and projects which have the prospect of turning around the economic circumstances of the borrowing entities and affording them the capacity not just to repay in the future but also to create sustainable growth.”

L-R: Director-General, NIMASA, Dr. Bashir Jamoh; Director General, Bureau of Public Service Reforms(BPSR), Dr Dasuki Arabi and Chairman, Competition and Consumer Protection Tribunal, Hajiya Saratu Shafi’i, during the BPSR Monthly lunch time seminar June Edition with the theme: Intergrating the Northern Region in National Maritime Transportation Development, in Abuja, yesterday.

Tinubu’s inclusiveness, deliberate strategies in 15 days appealing – Group

By Christiana Ekpa

Agroup under the auspices of The Natives said President Bola Tinubu’s inclusiveness and deliberate strategy to elevate the lives of Nigerians just within 15 days he assumed office is appealing.

The leader of the group, Smart Edwards, in a statement issued on Thursday, said in barely two weeks, Tinubu’s actions in office had startled both the old and the young.

The group said: “Mr. President,

barely two weeks, your actions in office have startled both old and young, minorities and majority, naysayers and believers.

“From your decisive political will on fuel subsidy, the choice of reputable and capable Chief of Staff and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), the harmony of security agencies, engagement of stakeholders, the historical bills signed to the critical support given to your party’s candidate at the parliamentary elections, it is safe

to say a New Era is here.”

It added that it was assured that the full stream strides to good governance and the pathway to the delivery of “renewed hope” is secured.

The group called on all Nigerians to join the wagon to greatness.

It noted: “In just 15 days, your inclusiveness and deliberate strategy to elevate our lives in this country is appealing.

“By courage, compassion and commitment, you set out to

free our common heritage from those that held us back and as you constantly bulldoze the way, this has clearly heightened our confidence.

“We encourage you to stay on course, we salute your doggedness and support how you are daily translating your manifestos to reality.

“Nigeria, in the hands of a dedicated democrat, must catch up for a 30-year delay in our journey to hope and prosperity for the common man.”

Ogun: My life is in danger – NNPP Counsel, Izunya petitions IGP

By Christiana Ekpa

Counsel to the Ogun State chapter of the New Nigeria People’s Party, (NNPP), I.D Izunya has raised an alarm that his life and that of his immediate family are in danger. Izunya raised the alarm on Thursday in a statement made available to journàlists.

He is currently representing NNPP in its petition against the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Governor Dapo Abiodun and the All Progressives Congress (APC) in court.

The party and its

gubernatorial candidate, Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo had dragged the trio to court over the omission of the party’s name in the ballot papers used in the last gubernatorial election in the state.

However, Izunya, who alleged that some persons are threatening to harm him or his immediate family, called on the Inspector General of Police, Usman Baba Alkali and the Commissioner of Police in the state to intervene.

He alleged that his wife was attacked and almost killed on Tuesday, June 13th this year but miraculously survived by the

Grace of God, urging the police to deploy all legal arsenals to protect him and his family.

He claimed the attack was politically motivated and that it might be a result of his role as a counsel to the NNPP in Ogun State.

“I wish to use this medium, to inform the Ogun State Commissioner of Police, the Governor of Ogun State, the Inspector General of Police and other Security agencies that my life and that of my family is in danger and they should deploy all legal arsenals to protect me and my family.

“I therefore wish to use this

medium to inform the Ogun State Commissioner of Police, the Governor of Ogun State, the Inspector General of Police and other Security agencies that my life and that of my family is in danger and they should deploy all legal arsenals to protect me and my family”.

“On the 13th day of June, 2023 at about 3pm my wife was attacked and about to be strangled by an unknown man. The unknown tall dark in complexion man knocked on my door severally and knowing I was not around told my wife through the window when she did not open the door, that I sent

money to her, my wife in reply told him that I didn’t inform her that I was sending someone with money and immediately the man left when my wife refused to open the door for him, not knowing he was still around the gate.

“When I arrived home from the office, I took her to Adigbe Police Station, Abeokuta, Ogun State, where she made an official complaint. The surprising thing is that before the attack on my wife, different persons have been asking for my identity in the area and also I personally noticed persons peeping around my gate”.

10th NASS: Jimoh Ibrahim snubs Akpabio, chooses Yari among South West Senators

Adocument showing how newly sworn-in Senators voted their principal officers has revealed that only one South West Senator voted Abdu’lAziz Yari, a contender for the Senate president position.

Jimoh Ibrahim, a Senator representing Ondo South Senatorial District, chose Yari over Godswill Akpabio, who emerged President of the 10th Senate.

The South Western region of Nigeria is made up of six states –namely Ondo, Osun, Oyo, Lagos, Ogun and Ekiti, with three Senators representing each of the states in the 10th Senate.

Ondo State is represented by Jimoh Ibrahim, Emmanuel Olajide and Adeniyi Adegbonmire.

Senators representing Osun State; Fadeyi Olubiyi, Francis Fadahunsi and Oyewumi Olalere all chose Akpabio over Yari.

Also, in Oyo State, Senators Akintunde Yunus, Buhari Abdulfatai and Alli Abiodun voted for Akpabio.

For Ekiti State, Senators Fasuyi OLuwole, Bamidele Opeyemi and Adaramodu Raphael also chose Akpabio over Yari.

In Lagos State, Senators Sanni Wasiu, Abiru Mukhail and Adebule Oluranti also voted Akpabio over Yari.

For Ogun State, Senators Salisu Afolabi, Daniel Olugbenga

and Adeola Olamilekan went for Akpabio over Yari.

You will recall that Akpabio was elected the Senate President of the 10th Senate on Tuesday, after going head to head in

the contest against Yari, both members of the All Progressives Congress.

The former Governor of Akwa Ibom State has subsequently been sworn in.

The election was carried out in a secret ballot system, where Senators were called out according to their states to cast their votes, but they had their names on the ballot papers.

Reps: Nigerians will soon rejoice over our decision of Speaker – Member, Agbese

Chief Philip Agbese, the lawmaker representing Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo

Federal Constituency, Benue State, has congratulated Hon Tajudeen Abbas on his emergence as Speaker of the House of Representatives.

Speaking to the media after the first plenary of the 10th National Assembly on Wednesday, Agbese expressed optimism that the House’s decision to elect Abbas will soon have a positive impact on Nigerians.

Abbas, who represents Zaria Federal Constituency, polled 353 votes to defeat former Deputy Speaker Idris Wase and Sani Jaji.

He said, “I’m proud to have supported Hon Abbas to emerge as Speaker of the 10th House of Representatives. I also make bold to say that Nigerians will soon rejoice over our decision

to yield to President Tinubu’s endorsement.

“I wish to assure Nigerians

that with Abbas as Speaker, the 10th House of Reps will break new grounds. We will reach the

stars. Ultimately, the goal is to better the lives of Nigerians with people-oriented legislation.”

Presidential victory or not, Atiku still our pride – Jada PDP

By Musa Baba Adamu

Leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Jada, the country home of Atiku Abubakar, have said the party’s presidential candidate in the last election, has demonstrated his unbroken loyalty to them.

They said this during a ceremony at the PDP state secretariat in Yola on Thursday, that Atiku’s loss in the February 25 election had not affected their confidence and support for him, adding they he remains their pride.

The immediate past chairman of the Jada Local

Council, Abdulkareem Bakala, who led PDP stakeholders from Jada to the Yola solidarity visit, said that Atiku had done so much for the PDP and Nigeria that he ought to be appreciated by all Nigerians. He said “We are here in continuation of Democracy Day. Waziri (Atiku Abubakar) is one

of the founding fathers of PDP and he has done well for the party and for the country. He contested for the presidency and we are still struggling for his mandate.

“We feel confident that our son will win. They said he lost by a narrow margin, but we say he actually won the election and

we are here today to say that we are with him as he fights for his mandate,” Abdulkareem Bakala said.

Atiku Abubakar hails from the Kojoli Jada 1 ward of the Jada LGA of southern Adamawa, although Yola is his adopted political home base where he usually casts his vote.

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde (left) and the Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon Debo Ogundoyin, during the inauguration of 10th Assembly, at the House of Assembly Chamber, Secretariat, Ibadan, yesterday

By Musa Baba Adamu

The New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) has congratulated its Senators, House of Representatives and States Houses of Assembly members across the country on their inaugurations as Federal and States legislators to provide effective representations to their constituencies and enact laws for good governance of the people.

In a statement issued yesterday by the National Publicity Secretary of the party, Agbo Major, NNPP charged them to be good Ambassadors of NNPP and justify the confidence Nigerians reposed in them to usher in a new, better, greater and prosperous nation by making people-oriented

10th NASS inaugurations: NNPP sets agenda for its lawmakers Nationwide

laws that will improve their standards of living and deliver dividends of democracy.

“The NNPP’s two Senators, 20 House of Representatives and numerous States House of Assembly members should be guided by Section 14(2)b of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as amended, which provides that the security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government.

“Nigerians expect vibrant, robust, dynamic, pragmatic, visionary and purposeful

national and States House of Assembly in our collective quest for a strong, virile, progressive, equitable and just democratic nation, not rubber stamp legislatures as obtainable in previous governments that impeded the nation’s democratic process.

“National interest should at all times override pecuniary interests for personal aggrandizement.

“The torch of liberty, freedom, social justice, religious harmony, buoyant economy and political stability of the

nation has been passed to you to redirect the ship of the nation from its perilous course to the path of rectitude, progress, development and advancement.

“The democratic principle of separation of powers must be strictly observed in the discharge of your constitutional duties to avoid tyranny and dictatorship in government. Accordingly, you should be the voice of the voiceless and eyes of the blind to ensure that no Nigerian is left behind.

“It is obvious that you are elected at a critical period in

the nation’s political process. The state of the nation is bad, very bad. There is hunger and hardship in the land. The welfare of the people should be uppermost in your minds as you work hard with your colleagues to alleviate their sufferings and restore confidence in the people that a new Nigeria is possible.

“Know that all eyes are on you, with the support of millions of NNPP faithful in particular and Nigerians in general you will succeed in this crucial states and national duties”, the party said in the statement.

killings: APC slams Amnesty International for being inconsiderate against Tinubu

By Ikechukwu Okaforadi

All Progressives Congress

(APC) has expressed shock over the statement by Amnesty International accusing the new government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of indifference to the latest killings in some parts of the country, two weeks after he was sworn in.

The National Publicity Secretary of the party, Felix Morka said in a statement on Tuesday in Abuja that while they thank Amnesty International for drawing attention to the lingering security challenges in Nigeria, especially in Plateau, Kaduna, Benue and Zamfara, APC find its conclusion hasty and inconsiderate.

“During his inaugural speech, President Bola Tinubu said clearly that security will be the topmost priority of his administration and he promised to reform the nation’s security doctrine and architecture.

“He promised in categorical terms that Security shall be the top priority of our administration because neither prosperity nor justice can prevail amidst insecurity and violence. To effectively tackle this menace, we shall reform both our security DOCTRINE and its ARCHITECTURE.

“We shall invest more in our security personnel, and this means more than an increase in number. We shall provide, better training, equipment, pay and firepower. President Tinubu demonstrated he prioritised security, when few days after he was sworn in, he met with his inherited security chiefs.”

The statement further stated that the president gave marching orders to the security chiefs to redouble efforts in dealing with the menace of terrorism, insurgency, banditry, oil theft, sea robbery and piracy among others that have conspired to weigh down the nation.

“President Tinubu decried the persistent security breaches

in the country and said he would not allow insecurity challenges to bring Nigeria to its knees while other countries are advancing.

“It is therefore uncharitable and inconsiderate of Amnesty International through its Acting Nigeria Country Director, Isa Sanusi, to accuse the new government that is just settling down of dereliction of duty.

“Amnesty International is known for stoking internal conflict and citizen antagonism in developing nations through weaponisation and accentuation of local situations to achieve its sinister objectives while hypocritically looking the other way when similar incidents occur

in developed nations, especially in the Western world.

“Many nations in the world, including the United States of America are today bedevilled by insecurity. By the end of May 2023 almost 20,000 people have died cumulatively as a result of gun violence and other violent crimes in America. In the first 150 days of 2023, America has recorded 263 mass shootings, with hundreds of death yet Amnesty International has not been on the mountain top to accuse US government of dereliction of duty.

“That mass shooting and gun violence have become an epidemic in US does not make the American government a failure in protecting

its people or make mass shootings a ‘norm’ in the country. Every government is daily devising means and ways to tackle rapidly changing security problems.

“In United Kingdom there is growing and daily menace of knife crimes. In 2022 alone, UK police recorded 49,265 offences involving knives and other sharp instruments and 46,334 in 2021. In Nottingham, a mass shooting in the city centre claimed three victims. Amnesty International has not accused UK government of failure to protect her citizens.

“The isolated cases of shooting that are now several decades old in our country, will need methodical and strategic thinking to ensure

normalcy. No organisation should gloat over these unfortunate incidents. It’s too early for such unsympathetic reaction.

“Amnesty International and its affiliates are advised to give the young government some time to work things out, in consonance with its pledge to our people, rather than rushing out with its jaded diatribe against the Nigerian government and its security authorities.

“President Bola Tinubu and his team are settling down to solving many of our national challenges across various sectors. Amnesty International should allow this government to do its work without their usual condescending hypocrisy”, it read.

Niger Assembly approves 20 Special Advisers for Gov Bago

The Niger House of Assembly has approved the appointment of the 20 Special Advisers nominees sent by Gov. Umar Bago.

The News Agency of Nigeria

(NAN) reports that the Assembly approved the list during plenary in Minna on Wednesday.

Speaker of the Assembly,

Mr Abdulmalik Sarkindaji, read the letter from the governor at plenary with the list of the Special Advisers nominees and sought the approval of the House.

Sarkindaji while reading the letter, said the governor congratulated the Speaker and the members for their inauguration, the successful

election of the leadership and commencement of the 10th assembly.

He said the letter was in compliance with the provisions of the 1999 Constitution as amended, to seek the consent and approval of the legislature to enable him commence government activities.

He added that the appointment of the 20 special advisers was to fast track government activities and implementation of the administration’s mandate.

The House, therefore, unanimously approved the governor’s request to appoint 20 special advisers. (NAN)

Executive Director, Distribution Systems, Storage and Retailing Infrastructure, Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Ogbugo Ukoha; Chairperson, Depots and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria (DAPPMAN), Winifred Akpani; Chief Executive Officer, (NMDPRA), Farouk Ahmed; and Executive Vice President, Downstream NNPCL, Yemi Adetunji, during the authority’s meeting with Oil Marketing Companies and a news conference on post PMS deregulation expectations, at the NMDPRA headquarters in Abuja on

From

Abubakar Yunusa Abuja

The Central Bank of Nigeria has directed Deposit Money Banks to remove the rate cap on the naira at the official Investors and Exporters’ Window of the foreign exchange market, to allow for a free float of the national currency against the dollar and other global currencies.

This came barely two weeks after President Bola Tinubu promised to unify the nation’s multiple exchange rates, and less than a week before the suspension and detention of CBN Governor Godwin Emefiele whose unorthodox monetary policies

New telcos eyeing 27millon Nigerians without telecom access – NCC

LICENCING Mobile Virtual Network Operators and the continued rollout of Fifth Generation (5G) networks across the country is in a bid to offer telecommunication services to the 27 million Nigerians without access to telecoms, the Nigerian Communications Commission has said.

The commission said the number of Nigerians without access to telecommunication services fell by 37.04 per cent to 27 million in 2022. It said this is as the number of identified areas of clusters across the country without access to telecoms fell to 53.1 per cent as of the end of 2022.

This was disclosed by the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, NCC, Prof. Umar Danbatta at a recent telecoms industry stakeholders forum in Yenagoa, Bayelsa state.

The EVC of the commission, who was represented at the forum by the Head, Pre-Licensing at the Commission, Usman Mamman, said, the number of clusters with access gaps has declined from 207 in 2013 to 97 as of 2022.

Danbatta said, “We have worked tirelessly to ensure we bring telecom services to people living in rural, unserved, and underserved areas of this country, totalling 37 million people courtesy of the consultancy that was conducted in 2013.”

He stated that the deployment of infrastructure in these areas resulted in the reduction of the telecoms gap. He added, “By 2022, we have reduced the clusters of access gaps to 97 from 207 in 2013. The number of Nigerians again has come down from 37 million in 2013 to 27 million as we speak.

Currency floating: Private sector, economists back CBN as naira falls to 664/$

had become a stumbling block to investors and the economy.

The CBN’s decision to float the currency was hailed by the organised private sector and economists who said the move would unify the country’s multiple exchange rate and bring sanitise the FX market

The development means buyers and sellers of foreign currency in the official FX markets are now allowed to quote rates they find comfortable in the FX market, as against the previous practice where rates were dictated by the Central Bank of Nigeria.

Following the development, the naira depreciated to N664.04/ dollar at the close of trading at the I&E Window on Wednesday, according to data from the FMDQ Securities Exchange.

That implies a 40.97 per cent decline in the naira value compared to the 471/dollar rate which the national currency closed at the I&E Window on Tuesday. Data from the FMDQ Exchange showed that trading at the I&E forex window opened at 473.83/$ before closing at 664.04/$. A total turnover of $193.33m was recorded.

The naira had always closed below N480/dollar at the I&E Window over the years.

However, the CBN had yet to update the I&E Window rate on its website as of 9pm on Wednesday.

The central bank quoted N463.38/$ as the I&E rate for June 9, 2023.

According to the chief executive officer of a commercial bank, who confirmed the development to The PUNCH, banks are now allowed to trade forex on the I & E window at any rate, subject to N1 spread.

“The CBN has called banks that the rate cap has been removed at I&E Window. Hence, banks and customers are allowed to trade freely at any rate subject to N1 spread between buy and sell rate”, the bank chief said.

In a statement on signed by the CBN’s Director of Financial Markets, Dr Angela Sere-Ejembi, the apex bank confirmed that major changes had been made to the operations of the foreign

exchange market.

According to the statement, the CBN has collapsed all foreign exchange segments into the I&E window.

It read, “The Central Bank of Nigeria wishes to inform all authorised dealers and the general public of the following immediate changes to operations in the Nigerian Foreign Exchange Market: Abolishment of segmentation. All segments are now collapsed into the Investors and Exporters window. Applications for medicals, school fees, BTA/PTA, and SMEs would continue to be processed through deposit money banks.

“Re-introduction of the ‘Willing Buyer, Willing Seller’ model at the I&E Window. Operations in this window shall be guided by the extant circular on the establishment of the window, dated 21 April 2017 and referenced FMD/DlR/ClR/GEN/08/007. All eligible transactions are permitted to access foreign exchange at this window.

“The operational rate for all government-related transactions shall be the weighted average rate of the preceding day’s executed transactions at the I&E window, calculated to two decimal places.”

Other changes include, “Proscription of trading limits on oversold FX positions with permission to hedge short positions with OTC futures. Limits on overbought positions shall be zero.

“Re-introduction of orderbased two-way quotes, with bidask spread of N1. All transactions shall be cleared by a Central Counter Party.

“Reintroduction of Order Book to ensure transparency of orders and seamless execution of trades.”

The CBN also ended the RT200 rebate scheme and the Naira4Dolar remittance scheme.

“Cessation of RT200 Rebate Scheme and the Naira4Dollar Remittance Scheme, with effect from 30 June 2023.

“Further guidance on these matters shall be communicated in due course. All market participants and the general public are kindly

enjoined to abide by these rules,” the statement added.

The CBN added that operational hours of trades shall be from 9am to 4pm, Nigeria time.

Meanwhile, at the parallel market on Wednesday, the naira closed at 757/dollar. Currency dealers in Lagos, Abuja and Lagos airport said the naira was sold and bought at 757 and 750, respectively. They said the development at the official market was affecting the black market.

The Nigerian stock market seems to be responding well as it continued its upward trajectory on Wednesday, extending the gains recorded on Tuesday.

Analysts attributed the gain to reports of the naira float by the CBN.

Nigerian banks led top gainers on Wednesday as the Nigerian Exchange continued its recent rebound attributed to critical economic decisions by the Bola Tinubu administration.

In a development that followed Tuesday’s bullish trading day, the All-Share Index traded 3.99 per cent higher to close at 59,985.10 index points, up from the 58,163.55 index points recorded in the previous day’s trading session.

The market capitalisation also appreciated by N992bn, closing at N32.662tn. This represented a 3.13 per cent gain against the N31.670tn recorded in the previous trading session.

International Breweries (10.00 per cent) led the gainers while Pharm Deko (-9.65 per cent) led the losers. UBA Plc was the most traded equity by volume at the end of Wednesday’s session.

Other top gainers included Sterling (10 per cent), Transcohot (10 per cent), Dangote Sugar (10 per cent) and First Bank Nigeria Holdings (10 per cent).

Following Pharmdeko on the losers list were CWG (-9.44 per cent), NNFM (-8.66 per cent), BUA Cement (-6.52 per cent), and ARDOVA (-5.06 per cent).

The top three traded shares by volume were UBA (230,764,290), GT CO (125,469,900) and Zenith Bank (119,143,503).

Value-wise, the top three traded shares were GTCO (4.2bn), Zenith Bank (N3.9bn) and UBA (N2.7bn).

Speaking with The PUNCH, the Vice Chairman, Highcap Securities Limited, David Adonri , ited the floating of the naira by the CBN as a major factor that helped consolidate the momentum from the previous day’s trading period.

He said, “Those of us who are operators in the financial sector, we have been clamouring for floating of the naira so that the true value of the naira can emerge from a market-determined rate. This floatation is quite attuned to our yearnings.”

Reacting to this, a facilitator with the Nigeria Economic Summit Group, Dr Ikenna Nwaosu, kicked against the unification of the exchange rates adding that there should be at least two rates, one for commercial and one for education.

He however admitted that it would bring clarity to the foreign exchange market.

“It brings a lot of clarity to forex as against the multiple forex windows under the former regime. The last regime under the suspended CBN governor had almost 12 forex windows. There was one for oil and gas, one for import and export and there was one for students so there were so many but this unification brings some clarity,” Nwaosu said.

The Fiscal Policy Partner and Africa Tax Leader at PricewaterhouseCoopers, Mr Taiwo Oyedele, said the development might drive the government’s $42bn external debt to N90tn.

He said, “With the Nigerian naira now exchanging in the official forex market at marketdetermined rates, a significant market distortion has been removed. Expectedly this will come with both positive and negative implications.

“The major impacts will include a significant rise in government debt in naira terms by about N12tn to N90tn i.e. external debt of $42bn will increase by the difference between the old and new rates.”

FG, Oando sign MoU to boost renewable energy access

By Abubakar Yunusa Abuja

The Federal Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Oando Clean Energy Limited to boost the deployment of sustainable renewable energy access across the country.

Represented by the Rural Electrification Agency, the government announced on Monday that the MoU with OCEL was also part of measures adopted

to further mitigate the harsh impact of the removal of subsidy on Premium Motor Spirit, popularly called petrol.

The REA, in a statement issued in Abuja, said the agency would continue to play a key role in the nation’s off-grid renewable energy space by drawing in private sector investment, facilitating intersectoral collaboration and aiding the implementation and delivery of off-grid solutions nationwide.

It stated the Oando brand

activated its clean energy subsidiary, Oando Clean Energy Limited in 2021, adding that the REA-Oando collaboration was targeted at exploring new approaches to clean energy development for socio-economic impact in post-subsidy Nigeria.

The Managing Director, REA, Ahmad Salihijo, explained that one of the best ways to mitigate the effects of subsidy removal in Nigeria was through the exploitation of opportunities

to optimise the critical role of renewable energy.

On his part, the President/ Chief Executive Officer, OCEL, Alex Irune, said, “Oando is keen on renewable energy and is excited for this opportunity to create value that the country needs.”

He expressed his confidence in the collaboration with REA, while explaining that “what the REA has effectively done is to take the bull by the horn and derisked investment opportunities.

Nigeria has reclaimed its position, overtaking Libya, as Africa’s largest oil producer.

In its latest monthly report, the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) said Nigeria’s oil production increased by 185,000 barrels per day (bpd) to 1.184 million bpd in May 2023.

In the same month, the report said, Libya produced 1.158 million bpd, Angola produced 1.111 million bpd, and Algeria produced 962,000 barrels bpd, respectively.

In April 2023, Libya’s oil output reached 1.21 million bpd, surpassing Nigeria (whose production fell to 998,602 bpd) as Africa’s largest producer.

But according to fresh data provided by OPEC, the current oil output has placed Nigeria in the top spot in Africa.

“According to secondary sources, total OPEC-13 crude oil production averaged 28.06 million barrel per day in May 2023, lower by 464,000 bpd month-onmonth,” OPEC said.

“Crude oil output increased mainly in Nigeria, Iran, and Angola, while production in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Kuwait declined.”

On June 13, 2023, this medium reported that, with the addition of condensate, the country’s oil production rose from 1.245 million bpd in April, to 1.427 million bpd in May.

Condensate is a mixture of light liquid hydrocarbons, similar to a light (high API) crude oil. It is usually separated from a natural gas stream at the point of production (field separation) when the temperature and pressure of the gas are dropped to atmospheric conditions.

Meanwhile, OPEC said although Nigeria’s economy faced multiple challenges in previous months, it would rebound in the second half (H2) of 2023.

OPEC said the recovery would be dependent on the nation’s purchasing manager index (PMI), which rebounded sharply to 54 in May, up from 53.8 in April.

The PMI is an index of the prevailing direction of economic trends in the manufacturing and service sectors.

“Nigeria’s economy grew by 2.4 percent year-on-year (y-o-y) in the first quarter of 2023 (Q1), after

Nigeria regains spot as Africa’s biggest oil producer after output spike in May

growth of 3.6 percent y-o-y in Q4 2022,” OPEC said.

“Slowing growth in the services sector, slowing crude oil output, and a deceleration in manufacturing and farming industries are among the most important issues.

“Additionally, the economy is

further burdened by ongoing high inflation and import restrictions.

“As a consequence, business activity and consumer spending remain subdued. Inflation data for April show an ongoing acceleration, with an annual rate of 22.2 percent y-o-y, up from 22 percent y-o-y in March. Food

inflation has been a key factor in this rise, reaching 24.6 percent y-o-y in April, following a rise of 24.5 percent y-o-y in March.”

Consequently, the alliance said the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) lifted the key policy rate to 18.5 percent in May, “after 18 percent in April and following a 50 basis

point (bp) hike in March and a 100 bp hike in January”.

“Despite the challenges, April’s Stanbic IBTC Bank Nigeria PMI recovered strongly to stand at 54 in May, after 53.8 in April, compared with only 42.3 in March, indicating a potential near-term recovery,” OPEC said.

Nigeria’s inflation rate rises to 22.41% amid petrol subsidy removal

By Abubakar Yunusa Abuja

The consumer price index

(CPI), which measures the rate of change in prices of goods and services, rose to 22.41 percent in May 2023, up from 22.22 percent in the previous month.

The country’s May inflation data is contained in the latest CPI report released on Thursday by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).

The latest figure is the fifth consecutive rise in the country’s inflation rate this year, as Nigerians adjust to the effects of the recent petrol subsidy removal.

According to the NBS report, “in May 2023, the headline inflation rate increased to 22.41

percent relative to April 2023 headline inflation rate which was 22.22 percent”.

“Looking at the movement, the May 2023 inflation rate showed an increase of 0.19 percentage points when compared to April 2023 headline inflation rate,” NBS said.

“Similarly, on a year-on-year basis, the headline inflation rate was 4.70 percentage points higher compared to the rate recorded in May 2022, which was (17.71 percent).

“This shows that the headline inflation rate (year-on-year basis) increased in the month of May 2023 when compared to the same month in the preceding year (i.e., May 2022).

“Likewise, on a month-onmonth basis, the headline inflation

rate in May 2023 was 1.94 percent, which was 0.03 percent higher than the rate recorded in April 2023 (1.91 percent).”

The bureau said in the month of May 2023, the average general price level was 0.03 percent higher relative to April 2023.

According to NBS, the food inflation rate in May 2023 was 24.82 percent on a year-on-year basis. This is 5.33 percent points higher compared to what was recorded in May 2022 (19.50 percent).

The statistics body said the rise in food inflation was caused by increases in prices of oil and fat, yam and other tubers, bread and cereals, fish, potatoes, fruits, meat, vegetable, spirit.

“On a month-on-month basis,

the food inflation rate in May 2023, was 2.19 percent, this was 0.06 percent higher compared to the rate recorded in April 2023 (2.13 perecent),” the report said.

“The average annual rate of food inflation for the twelvemonths ending May 2023 over the previous twelve-month average was 23.65 percent, which was 4.97 percent points increase from the average annual rate of change recorded in May 2022 (18.68 percent).

“On a year-on-year basis food inflation was highest in Ondo (25.84 percent), Kogi (25.70 percent), Rivers (25.02 percent); while Taraba (19.55 percent), Sokoto (19.56 percent), and Plateau (19.89 percent) recorded the slowest rise in headline inflation.”

By Abubakar Yunusa Abuja

In light of the current economic realities, the policy advisory council of President Bola Tinubu has asked the federal government to extend the validity of the old naira notes to December 31, 2024.

The recommendation was made in a report, titled, ‘Policy Advisory Council Report: National Economy Sub-committee’.

The council also suggested the implementation of a gradual phase-out (on a monthly basis) of the old currency notes.

“Extend the December 31st, 2023, deadline to December 31st, 2024 (if required),” the document reads.

“Bring in new notes through the deposit money banks by 5% monthly and take out the old notes through the deposit money banks by the same 5% (12-18 months).”

In October 2022, Godwin Emefiele, the erstwhile governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), announced the plan to redesign the naira to control money supply and aid security agencies in tackling illicit financial flows.

Following the unveiling of the redesigned naira notes on November 23, 2022; the deadline for the validity of the old notes was fixed for January 31, 2023.

But this was later extended to February 10 amid a nationwide outburst in protest of what was described as poor implementation of the policy.

On March 3, a supreme court judgement invalidated the naira redesign policy introduced by the apex bank as citizens’ angst spread across the country.

Delivering judgment in a suit instituted by three states of the federation, a seven-

member panel of the apex court held that the old N200, N500, and N1000 notes remain legal tender until December 31, 2023.

About two weeks after the court ruling, the CBN complied with the directive, instructing commercial banks, in a statement, that the old N200, N500, and N1000 notes remain legal tender until December 31, 2023.

“In compliance with the established tradition of obedience to court orders and sustenance of the rule of law principle that characterised the government of President Muhammadu Buhari, and by extension, the operations of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), as a regulator, deposit money banks operating in Nigeria have been directed to comply with the supreme court ruling of March 3, 2023,” the statement had read.

“Accordingly, the CBN met with the

bankers’ committee and has directed that the old N200, N500, and N1000 banknotes remain legal tender alongside the redesigned banknotes till December 31, 2023.”

During his presidential campaign, Tinubu explained that he had nothing against the naira redesign policy “in principle”.

In his inaugural speech on May 29, 2023, the president promised to revisit the demonetisation policy of the CBN.

He said the currency swap was too harshly applied by the apex bank.

“Whatever merits it had in concept, the currency swap was too harshly applied by the CBN given the number of unbanked Nigerians,” Tinubu had said.

“The policy shall be reviewed. In the meantime, my administration will treat both currencies as legal tender.”

‘Extend validity of old naira notes till Dec 2024’ — Tinubu’s advisory council recommends

By Egena Sunday Ode

The National Economic Council on Thursday announced the setting up of a committee to work out, within two weeks, the modalities for organizing and distributing palliatives to cushion the effects of the recent petrol subsidy removal.

This was disclosed to newsmen after the maiden meeting of the council under the present dispensation, which was presided over by the Chairman, Vice President Kashim Shettima at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

Briefing newsmen, Governor of Bauchi State, Bala Mohammed, who was joined by four of his colleagues, said the council also discussed the possibility of obtaining funds from the World Bank and London partners to implement the programme of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) for vehicles in the country as part of measures to bring down the price of fuel.

He said the council deliberated on other recommendations including the one by the organized labour for N702 billion consequential adjustment on allowances as well as the about N23 to N25 billion monthly they requested to cushion the effects of the subsidy removal.

While noting that NEC took very far reaching decisions and deliberations on the issue of the removal of petroleum PMS subsidy and its general impact on the economy, Mohammed said: “Specifically on the issue of national salaries, income and wages commission, NEC had received recommendations on the various ways and means that the country can use whatever increases that we have in the revenue to mitigate the impact that is going to make on the lives of our workers and all those people involved.

“And so, they recommended and they gave us a scenario recommending that there should be a consequential adjustment, estimated at N702,919.8 billion as part of the allowances that should be given as petroleum allowance to all workers and as well as a 23 or 25 billion monthly offer to cushion the effect on workers and others suggestion

Subsidy removal: NEC sets up committee on palliatives

•Urges release of funds for flood disaster victims

L-R: Bayelsa State governor Douye Diri; Bauchi State Governor Sen. Bala Mohammed; Anambra State governor Charles Soludo, and Akwa Ibon State Umo Bassey Eno, at the Inauguration of the National Economic Council (NEC), Meeting at the Presidential Villa Abuja yesterday

that will go a long way in making sure that there is review of our salaries and wages.”

He revealed that the Council looked at all the issues including “the challenges and problems holistically and set up a small committee of council to review and come up with a term of reference to organized areas specifically where this palliatives can come and how it will be dispensed to alleviate the problem of workers and other vulnerable groups.

“Members of the committee is composed of Governor Kebbi as Chairman; Anambra representing the South East geopolitical zone; Governor Benue, North Central, Governor of Kaduna, Northwest; my humble self, Bauchi, representing the northeast; Governor Cross River, South South and Oyo state,southwest.

“Other relevant agencies were also included. They comprised of a budget office, representative of the CBN, representative of the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation, representative of NNPC, representative of TUC and NLC and of course, Rukayat el-Rufai, so that we can sit within two weeks to come up with recommendation to NEC for a wholistic decision that will be

taken immediately to alleviate the problem that may be encountered by the removal of the subsidy.”

The Bauchi governor said the input of the committee on palliatives earlier set up and headed by former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, would not be discarded but integrated into the ongoing process.

In his contribution, Governor Dikko Radda of Katsina State, affirmed that government has approached the World Bank for more funds for the NG-Cares programme to mitigate the effect of subsidy removal.

He explained: “As you are aware, the NG-Cares Programme is a programme that started 2021 running up to 2024. And then is to provide some emergency on palliatives, social needs on so many issues ranging from small farmers holders. MSMEs and other interventions. It’s a $750 million from the World Bank. And it has commenced long time ago.

“And some of the recommendations that were made include the state Cares platforms having strong capacity to handle the implementation of palliative to the new and existing poor and vulnerable individuals, household and farmers, local economy of operators in the

country.

“Additional funding can be sourced from the federal government, World Bank, Development partners as well as Nigerian private sector.

“In specific, the World Bank can be approached for additional financing on NG-Cares programme. Discussion can start as soon as possible.

“So these are the recommendations that were made. And the Economic Council will pursue these recommendations for the benefit of the Nigerian, vulnerable and the poor.”

Also speaking, Governor Alex Otti of Abia State said NEC looked at the issue of providing legislative support to local automotive manufacturers following a presentation made to it by the National Automotive Design and Development Council.

While noting that the impact of subsidy removal has increased prices, he said the presentation dwelt on ways to solve the problem and reduce shock.

He stated that some of the local vehicle manufacturers have already gone into the production of CNG and electric automobiles, which can reduce the pressure on petrol, noting the need to support them through legislation.

NEC also spoke of the need to alleviate the suffering caused by the 2022 flood disaster in the country through the timely release of funds as recommended by various committees.

Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State, who addressed this issue also said that NEC regretted the delay by many of the states affected by the disaster to forward their submissions to the Secretariat.

Noting the position of NEC, he said: “The plight of victims of the unfortunate flood disaster across affected states of the federation could be alleviated if the much needed intervention from the federal government materialized without further delay.

“There is therefore the need to expedite release of funds to affected states as recommended by designated committees constituted by the federal government to that effect.

“This will go a long way in addressing the needs of the victims as well as offset debts incurred by some states to assist the victim.”

He said that given the threat of flood this year, NEC resolved that all states should make a comprehensive submission by next week.

Instagram Is Main Platform Used By Pedophile Networks To Abuse Children – Report

From Abubakar Yunusa Abuja

Instagram is the main platform used by pedophile networks to promote and sell content showing child sexual abuse, according to a report by Stanford University and the Wall Street Journal.

“Large networks of accounts that appear to be operated by minors are openly advertising self-generated child sexual abuse material for sale,” said researchers at the US university’s

Cyber Policy Center.

“Instagram is currently the most important platform for these networks with features like recommendation algorithms and direct messaging that help connect buyers and sellers.”

According to the Journal, a simple search for sexually explicit keywords specificaly referencing children leads to accounts that use these terms to advertise content showing sexual abuse of minors.

The profiles often “claim to be driven by the children themselves and use overtly sexual pseudonyms”, the article detailed.

While not specifically saying they sell these images, the accounts do feature menus with options, including in some cases specific sex acts.

Stanford researchers also spotted offers for videos with bestiality and self-harm.

“At a certain price, children are available for in-person ‘meetings’,” the article continued.

Meta, Instagram’s parent company, did not immediately respond to a request for comment from AFP.

According to the Journal, the social media giant acknowledged problems within its security services and said it had created a task force to address the issues raised.

Last March, pension and investment funds filed a complaint against Meta for having “turned a blind eye” to human trafficking and child sex abuse images on its platforms.

METRO

Clergyman raises alarm over scammers’ invasion of online-prayer platforms

By Stanley Onyekwere

The Lead Pastor of Transforming Church, Rev. Sam Oye, Abuja has charged people to always be vigilant over activities of some online prayer platforms, as scammers seemed to have taken over the internet space.

Oye, who also owns an online gospel platform, Prophetic Prayer Hour, particularly advised FCT residents and Nigerians at large to be careful with the online prayer platforms they patronise online scammers, who are now posing as men of God to defraud people on the net.

He gave the advice yesterday, as the Church kick-starts activities ahead of celebrating 1,000 days of its online prayer platform, coming up on the 19th of June.

The Abuja based clergyman, maintained that Nigeria, as a prayerful country, religion is one of the potentials that is yet to be

properly harnessed, which he opined has the capacity to become a major source of foreign earner for the country.

He explained that since he started his online prayer platform known as the Prophetic Prayer Hour, it has attracted over 350,000 members from 110

countries who turn to Nigeria for spiritual solutions.

He added that the platform which attracted members from USA, the Caribbean, United Kingdom, South Korea, Canada amongst others, has also helped in changing the negative perceptions the world has about Nigerians.

Foundation boosts Journalists’ capacity on conflict reporting

By Stanley Onyekwere

Some Abuja-based Journalists have received intensive training on safety in discharge of their duties especially covering conflict in the society.

The training, tagged: “safety of journalists in conflict reporting”, was organised by Daily Trust Foundation in partnership with City University of London, United Kingdom (UK), for 20 select print and broadcast journalists in Abuja, with the focus on diverse issues relating to reporting of conflicts.

In his opening remarks, chairman of

Daily Trust foundation, Bilya Bala said safety remains critical for journalism practice because of the hazards involved.

Bala said the foundation was contributing its quota to ensure safety for journalists, not only through the collaboration with City, University of London, but in other critical areas.

According to him: “The collaboration did not begin this year, since 2019, even during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, we have been conducting safety training for journalists.

“At the Daily Trust foundation, we are contributing our own quota to

ensure safety for journalists, not only through this collaboration with City, University of London, but through our other engagements.

“Later in the year, we shall host another safety training, this time is about, ‘covering dangerous assignments’ like wars, riots, and civil conflicts”.

Also speaking, Director of programme, Department of Journalism, City University of London, Dr. Abdullahi Abubakar, said considering the responsibility of journalists in coverage of different conflicts, they need the requisite training to report the issues without harm.

Abubakar noted that journalists need adequate knowledge to provide protection for themselves in reporting conflicts.

Abubakar said: “Journalists have the responsibility to cover all the conflicts ranging from farmers herders clash, IPOB, Boko Haram and insurgency across the country, they have to understand the issues involved, so that they will protect themselves professionally”.

On his part, the lead discussant, Dr. Theophilus Abbah said journalists must be awake in conflict reporting to avoid putting themselves and their organisations in danger.

L-R: Gombe State Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya; Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah, and Ekiti State Governor Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, at the Inauguration of the National Economic Council (NEC), Meeting at the Presidential Villa Abuja yesterday

Neuschwanstein: US man held after fatal attack at German castle

A21-year-old woman has died after she was attacked and thrown from a hill at the historic Neuschwanstein Castle in southern Germany on Wednesday.

Prosecutors said the woman - who has not been named - died overnight after she was shoved 50 metres into a gorge.

Her friend, a 22-year old woman, remains in hospital with serious injuries after she was also pushed when she attempted to stop the assailant.

Police said they have detained a US man in connection with the attack.

The 30-year-old tourist, who has not been named by police, initially fled the scene, officers said.

He was later detained on Wednesday after a massive police manhunt involving more than 25 vehicles and was taken to a police station in nearby Fuessen in Bavaria state.

In a statement, police said they believed the man met the women - who German media reported were both American citizens - on a trail near the Marienbrücke bridge. The spot is a popular viewpoint used by tourists to view the castle.

He then led them to a hidden trail, on the pretext that the way to the bridge was difficult to navigate, before attacking the 21-year old woman.

“When the 22-year-old wanted to intervene, he choked her and then pushed her down a steep slope,” Bavarian police said in a statement.

Officers said that “an attempted sexual offence to the detriment of the 21-year-old must be assumed”.

“He then pushed her down the slope, where she came to rest about 50 meters next to her friend,” they added.

The 21-year-old woman was taken to hospital by helicopter, but later died from her injuries. Her friend, who is said to be in a serious condition, was responsive when found by police.

The man appeared at the Kempten District Court on Thursday, where the investigating judge issued an arrest warrant and the man was remanded into custody.

Senior public prosecutor Thomas Hormann told reporters that the investigation into the incident was just beginning.

Neuschwanstein is one of Germany’s most popular tourist attractions. More than 1.3 million people visit the site annually, according to the Bavarian finance ministry.

Sitting around 126km (78 miles) from Munich, it was built in the 19th century and served as the principal residence of the rulers of the region.

Greece boat disaster: Capsized boat had 100 children in hold, BBC told

Survivors from a fishing boat that sank off southern Greece in one of Europe’s worst migrant disasters say up to 100 children may have been on board.

At least 78 people have already been confirmed dead in the disaster.

But many more could still be missing at sea, with reports suggesting that up to 750 people were aboard the vessel.

At least 11 arrests have been made including several Egyptians on suspicion of people trafficking, Greek TV reports.

The coastguard has been criticised for not intervening earlier but authorities say their offers of aid were refused.

Rescuers are still searching the area where the boat capsized almost 50 nautical miles off the south-west coast, as hopes of finding more survivors dwindle.

The boat had been heading to Italy from the Libyan port of Tobruk when it went down.

Images showed the decks packed with people, but accounts of a large number of women and children in the hold of the ship have come from medics who treated the mostly male survivors.

The senior doctor at Kalamata General Hospital told the BBC as many as 100 children were on the vessel.

“[The survivors] told us there were children in the bottom of the ship. Children and women,” said Dr Manolis Makaris, head of cardiology.

He said two patients had given him estimated figures.

“One told me about 100 children, the other about 50, so I don’t know the truth - but it is many,” he added.

Dr Makaris said he believed as many as 600 people could have died in the disaster.

“The exact number of all the people who were on the boat was 750. This is the exact number that everyone told me about this,” he said.

Families of some Egyptian children who were missing had sent him photographs of

their young relatives, he said, in the hope he would recognise them after treating them.

“It was a tragedy,” he said. “Everyone in Europe must not accept this situation. We have to do something. Everyone has to do something so it doesn’t happen again.”

A reporter from Greece’s ANT1 channel asked a survivor if there were 100 children on board, to which the survivor replied: “Yes.”

The BBC has not been able to independently verify the figure, but it was corroborate by the charity Save the Children, citing testimonies from survivors.

Greek government spokesman Ilias Siakantaris said it was not known how many people were in the hold: “But we know that several smugglers lock people up to maintain control.”

A later picture of the fishing boat in the hours before it sank was released by the coast guard on Thursday

Families of some of the missing have arrived in Kalamata in search of their loved ones.

“My relatives were on the boat,” said Aftab, who had travelled from the UK and said at least four of his relatives from Pakistan were unaccounted for.

“We’ve had confirmation. We found one of the relatives in [the rescue centre]. But the others we haven’t got hold of yet,” he told the BBC.

A Syrian man from the Netherlands broke down as he revealed his wife and brother-inlaw were missing.

“The authorities are looking for their bodies in the sea...They’re looking in hospitals, they’re looking among dead bodies, and among the survivors,” Kassam Abozeed said.

Kassam Abozeed said his wife and brother-in-law were onboard the boat that capsized

Timeline of events (all times in GMT)

• 08:00 Greek coast guard says they are informed about a migrant boat by Italian authorities

• 11:00 Coast guard says it makes contact with boat - it does not request help

• 12:17-15:34 Multiple distress calls from boat according to Alarm Phone charity

• 15:00 First commercial vessel supplies food and water

• 19:40-22:40 Greek coastguard vessel sailed near the migrant boat, observing at a distance not finding any problem in its navigation

• 22:40 Report of engine failure

• 23:04 Migrant boat overturns and sinks

• 04:00 Vessels help in rescue efforts

Activist Nawal Soufi was the first to raise the alarm after being contacted by people on the boat on Tuesday morning.

The coastguard said initial contact was made with the fishing boat at 14:00 local time (11:00 GMT) on Tuesday, and no request for

help had been made.

It said the Greek shipping ministry had made repeated contact with the boat and was told it simply wanted to sail on to Italy.

Two commercial ships provided water during the evening. In a Facebook post, Ms Soufi said the situation became “complicated” when a ship approached the vessel and tied ropes to it while throwing bottles of water on board.

She said some of the people on board had felt in “extreme danger” due to fears the rope could cause the boat to flip, and that fights on board over water could result in it capsizing. The boat then moved away.

The coastguard said that in the early hours of Wednesday the boat’s engine broke down and that people on board started to move around causing it to capsize. All of the 104 people rescued were male.

Alarm Phone, an emergency helpline for migrants in trouble at sea, complained that the coastguard had been “aware of the ship being in distress for hours before any help was sent”, adding that authorities “had been

The Greek coastguard released images of the crowded boat before it went down

Sudan conflict: West Darfur governor killed after genocide claim

Agovernor from Sudan’s Darfur region has been killed hours after accusing the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) of committing genocide.

In a TV interview, Khamis Abakar had asked for international intervention to stop violence in West Darfur he blamed on the RSF and its Arab militia allies.

The conflict that erupted two months ago between the RSF and army has inflamed ethnic tensions in Darfur.

The army said the RSF abducted Abakar and executed him, which it denies.

He is the most senior official known to have been killed since the conflict began in April.

Video footage circulating on social media appears to show a group of armed men, some wearing RSF uniforms, detaining the governor of West Darfur state on Wednesday.

But the RSF blamed “outlaws” for his death, saying its fighters had tried to protect Abakar by taking him to their headquarters in El Geneina, the capital of West Darfur.

It was then overrun and the governor kidnapped and “assassinated in cold blood”, the RSF said.

Black African and Arab communities in Darfur have long been at loggerheads - with the worst violence erupting two decades ago when non-Arabs took up arms accusing the government of

discrimination.

In response the government armed Arab militias, known as the Janjaweed. They were accused of widespread atrocities and ethnic killings, described as the first genocide of the 21st Century.

The RSF was born out of these Janjaweed fighters - and now they and other Arab militias have again been accused of targeting African communities, going on the rampage in El Geneina.

The city is a symbol of black African power in Darfur and many people from the Massalit ethnic group live there.

“Civilians are being killed randomly and in large numbers,” Governor Abakar told Saudi-owned Al-Hadath TV on Wednesday, saying the army was doing nothing to help those under attack.

Last week he told BBC Arabic’s emergency pop-up Sudan radio service that the killings were especially targeting his Massalit group: “El Geneina city has been attacked from three directions: east, south and west.

“These people have been attacked in their homes and displacement camps. People are targeted… on a daily basis, based on their ethnicity.”

In a statement condemning his killing, the army said Governor Abakar had been one of the leaders of former rebel groups that signed the historic peace agreement in 2020 that brought rebels into the then-transitional government.

In his BBC Sudan Lifeline interview, the governor said that the whole of West Darfur - one of five states in the gold-rich Darfur region - faced a “tragic” situation.

“All the vital facilities in the state have been totally destroyed. Hospitals are not operating. Water sources have been utterly destroyed.

“I am calling on the international and regional community to interfere immediately in West Darfur to save those who are remaining alive in the state,” he said - a plea he repeated in his last interview.

On Tuesday, the UN’s envoy to Sudan, Volker Perthes, said most of

these attacks did appear to have been committed by Arab militias and the RSF which “could amount to crimes against humanity”.

Last week, medical aid charity Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) said estimates suggested that at least 500 people had been killed in El Geneina alone.

Abakar told the BBC more than 2,000 people had also been wounded, trapped in the city and unable to get treatment.

According to the UN, more than 100,000 people have now fled the fighting in Darfur across the border into neighbouring Chad.

Kwara boat capsize: Mothers die trying to save children in Nigeria

Among the more than 100 people who drowned earlier this week when a boat capsized on the River Niger in central Nigeria were many parents trying to save their children, a survivor tells the BBC.

Mohammed Alhassan, 22, was one of about 300 people travelling on the overcrowded wooden boat in Patigi in Kwara State.

Many were returning from a wedding. But not Mr Alhassan - he was returning from a market.

He shows no emotion as he returns to the bank of the river where he had managed to swim to safety.

It is low tide when I meet him. The river is still and his gaze is fixed on the horizon.

But as he remembers the parents who drowned with their children, including his sister and her eight-year-old son, the tears come flooding down his face.

“The women remained behind trying to carry their children - some of them had three or four children.

“There were also fathers who died the same way trying to save their kids,” he says.

Had he tried to help save them too, he would have drowned, he says.

So he swam to safety, but as he did so, he saw the horrifying scene as mothers and fathers sank along with their children as they tried to save them.

He is thankful he survived but still traumatised from seeing all those people die, especially the children.

Close to 300 people were travelling in the wooden boat when it capsized on Monday, authorities said.

Travelling across the Niger, Nigeria’s longest river, can be perilous in some areas.

The wooden boats are often overcrowded, there are not enough life jackets and some of the journey is made in the dark, so accidents are not uncommon especially during the rainy season between April and October.

Most of the incidents happen in the central Niger state and neighbouring areas. Three years ago in Kebbi state at least 50 people died after their boat capsized.

There have also been other deadly boat accidents recently in Kano in the north, and the southern states of Lagos and Anambra, where 76 people died in October last year.

Despite the dangers, for many communities that live on the banks of the River Niger, it is the only form of travel they know.

Most of them, like Mr Alhassan have made the journey countless times in the past.

He was sitting at the head of the boat this time, he recalls.

The boat had left in darkness just before 03:00GMT, some of the children had dozed off in their parents’ arms and were carried on board.

But five minutes after they took off, he heard a loud crack that split the boat in two, he says.

The police say the boat capsized after part of the vessel collapsed, causing it to flood. But the Emir of Patigi - the local traditional ruler - told journalists that river waves overtook the boat and forced it to crash into a tree that had washed into the river.

In Ebo, a community in Kwara state which lost 61 people in the tragedy, many of the young survivors have gathered under

the biggest tree in the middle of the village.

On another day, they might have been discussing a football match or joking with each other, but they are in mourning.

Some of them were on the boat and managed to swim to safety but the horrors of seeing friends, relatives and strangers they had met at the loading dock drown, is one they will never forget.

Aisha Mohammed, who lives close to the tree, was not on the boat but her three daughters were.

She had bid them farewell as they travelled to the wedding, looking forward to the day when guests would come to her house for wedding ceremonies. All three daughters were set to get married this year, she says in the local Nupe language.

“We are all grieving from this sad incident and only pray Allah to ease our

pains,” says the local chief Liman Umar.

“In our community we do things together. When we rejoice, we do as one and now that this has befallen us, we are all not sleeping,” he says.

He was coordinating the rescue efforts, relaying information from the divers to the emir but that has now been abandoned.

Local people say they have faced heavy rains in the last couple of days and received no help from the government to find survivors.

They are now waiting for missing bodies to float to the river surface so they can collect them, their leaders say.

Some of the boats that ply the Niger travel at night to evade authorities and passengers are often indifferent about the life jackets, many tell me.

But this has to change says Abdul Gana,

West Darfur Governor Khamis Abakar said people from his Massalit ethnic group were being targeted in El Geneina

Mohammed Alhassan had crossed the River Niger countless times before this tragedy

N ews F rom A s IA

Ukraine war: The challenges of training F-16 pilots

Western allies are set to announce their plans to train Ukrainian pilots to fly US-made F-16s when they meet in Brussels today. But it’s still not clear which countries will be willing to provide the jets, how many, or even when.

Supplying Ukraine with F-16 fighter jets will “not be a silver bullet” or a “quick fix”, says the head of Norway’s Air Force. Maj Gen Rolf Folland says it’ll take time for Ukraine to develop the ability to operate Western jets with complex weapons.

We meet at a large allied air exercise taking place over Norway, Finland and Sweden. It involves 150 fighter planes - many more than the entire Ukrainian Air Force.

Gen Folland says the training is about dominating the skiesto avoid what he calls the type of “old fashioned” conflict now taking place in Ukraine.

To gain supremacy of the air requires a level of scale and sophistication that Ukraine will not be able to replicate. Even providing a small fleet of F-16s could prove a major challenge.

It took Pulse, a Belgian pilot, three years to master his F-16

fighter. We’ve been asked to use his call sign, not his real name.

He shows us round his F-16, originally designed in the late 1970s, long before he was born.

“It flies like a dream”, he says. “But flying is the easiest part. The rest is more difficult.”

That includes learning to operate the F-16’s radar, sensors and weapons. Ukraine, which currently has more pilots than aircraft, is hoping to compress that training into months.

Pulse sees the logic of providing Western jets to Ukraine. He points to his F-16’s weapons: air-to-air missiles to destroy enemy aircraft, and bombs to hit targets on the ground. “That’s important,” says Pulse, “because you can use any weapons from Nato stocks with this jet.”

But then there’s the question of maintaining the jets.

The Norwegian Air Force, like others in Europe, has transitioned to the more modern F-35. So in theory there should be F-16s available for Ukraine.

At Orland air base they use two of their old F-16s to train aircraft engineers. That can take a year - even longer for a senior

aircraft technician.

“You can’t just hand over a fighter aircraft and say off you go!” Col Martin Tesli, the base commander and a former F-16 pilot, says.

He says there’s a large logistical tail - spare parts, software and weapons. But he too understands the need to modernise Ukraine’s fleet of old Soviet-era jets.

“At a certain point, if they’re not provided with another aircraft, they won’t have an air force to defend themselves.”

Justin Bronk of the Royal United Services Institute says

Ukraine would probably need the help of Western contractors to keep any F-16s flying. The obvious question, is what country is willing to accept the obvious risks of putting their own people on the ground?

Professor Bronk adds that Russia is only more likely to target Ukraine’s air bases if it’s supplied with Western jets. That’s a danger for the single engine F-16, which has a large intake that can suck up debris from the runway.

These are good reasons why the US has, for so long, resisted pressure from Ukraine

to provide F-16s. It’s less about fears of escalation, and more about the practicalities of operating and maintaining the jets. The Pentagon has warned it’ll be both complex and costly.

Ukraine has pleaded for Western fighter jets since the war began

Nor is providing Ukraine with Western fighters likely to significantly alter the battle on the ground.

Lt Col Neils Van Hussen, a former F-16 pilot of the Royal Netherlands Air Force, says “not a single weapons system

Anger at Israeli army probe into fatal shooting of Palestinian toddler

The parents of a Palestinian toddler killed by an Israeli soldier say the military’s investigation into his death “makes a mockery of our son’s blood”.

Mohammed Tamimi, two, was shot in the head and his father Haitham was injured in the occupied West Bank on 1 June.

The military’s report blames a mix-up for a soldier firing at their car.

It says he thought he was shooting at gunmen and that the confusion was caused by another soldier firing in the air in violation of regulations.

Haitham Tamimi told the BBC: “We, as the parents of Mohammed, consider that the army’s statement makes a mockery of our son’s blood, belittles the scale of the soldiers’ crime and confirms that there is no force that deters them from killing us.”

He said that he hoped to take his son’s case to international courts in the future and that he was working with the Israeli human rights group Yesh Din and other organisations.

“I know that no-one will punish the soldier who killed my son, but I want to expose them so that the suffering that happened to us won’t happen to another family,” Mr Tamimi said.

The Israeli military published the results of its investigation

into the incident in the village of Nabi Saleh on Wednesday.

The report repeated the military’s previous assertion that two Palestinian gunmen had fired at a Jewish settlement and an Israeli military post close to Nabi Saleh.

An army officer arrived at the scene and began searching the area, it said. He then saw a “suspicious vehicle and fired several times into the air in violation of orders”.

This prompted a soldier stationed at the guard post who heard the shots to open fire on the Tamimis’ car outside their home, according to the report. He believed the gunmen were using it to flee and had received permission from his commander.

A military helicopter was used to transport Mohammed Tamimi to an Israeli hospital, but he died of his injuries four days later.

His father was treated for a gunshot injury to the shoulder in Ramallah but was discharged just in time to visit his son before his death.

Mohammed Tamimi was the youngest child killed as a result of the Israel-Palestinian conflict this year.

The Israeli military investigation found fault with commanders for miscommunication and “incorrect decision-making”,

and said that the officer who fired in the air would be reprimanded for violating orders.

“We do everything that we can so as not to harm uninvolved civilians. I express my sorrow for the harm that was caused to civilians and the death of the toddler,” the Commanding Officer of Israeli Central Command, Major General Yehuda Fox, stated.

The Palestinian foreign ministry, in a statement, deplored the findings as “the clearest and ugliest form of disregard for, and legalisation of, the shedding of Palestinian blood”.

It has called for an international investigation into Israeli military actions against Palestinian children.

“Without accountability, Israel’s crimes against our people/children will continue unabated,” Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh wrote in a tweet last week. He visited the mourning tent of Mohammed Tamimi in Nabi Saleh.

The US Office for Palestinian Affairs urged Israel “to evaluate all use of deadly force that involves civilian casualties”.

Similar statements calling on Israel to hold accountable those

responsible for Mohammed Tamimi’s death were made by the European Union delegation to the Palestinians and the United Nations envoy for the Middle East peace process.

The killing of the toddler came amid a surge in violence, particularly in the West Bank, in recent months.

A Yesh Din report based on military data from 2017 to 2021 found that Israeli soldiers were prosecuted over less than 1% of the hundreds of complaints filed against them on alleged offences against Palestinians.

Source: BBC

The West now plans to train Ukrainian pilots on F16s. But when will they be able to use them in the Mohammed Tamimi was the youngest child killed as a result of the Israel-Palestinian conflict this year

Environment

By Opeyemi Ibitoye

As Nigeria grapples with the steady increase in Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs), the role of sugary drinks as a contributing factor to this trend cannot be ignored. The Nigerian government’s implementation of a tax on Sugar-Sweetened Beverages (SSBs) in 2022 has sparked the debate on whether it should be sustained and if this is the right time for Nigerians to focus on health.

The rising consumption of sugar-sweetened non-alcoholic beverages in Nigeria, combined with the alarming rise in NCDs has had far-reaching social and economic consequences. The associated productivity loss, rising healthcare costs, and strains on individuals and their families are undeniable. Furthermore, SSBs have been identified as major risk factors for a variety of deadly diseases around the world. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has acknowledged these concerns, which are reflected in Nigeria’s National Multisectoral Action Plan (NMSAP) for NCD elimination, which is overseen by the Federal Ministry of Health’s NCD Division.

Mounting empirical evidence establishes a significant link between the consumption of SSBs and the risk of NCDs. SSBs can be found in various forms, including carbonated soft drinks, energy drinks, concentrates or syrups, sports drinks, pre-sweetened teas and coffees, enhanced waters, milkbased drinks, and less than 100 per cent fruit or vegetable juices such as juice drinks or nectar. SSBs are readily available and highly consumed in Nigeria, particularly among children and adolescents.

According to the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), consumption of SSBs is associated with weight gain, obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, kidney diseases, nonalcoholic liver disease, tooth decay and cavities, and gout, a type of arthritis, among others.

Recent discussions questioned the timeliness of sustaining and increasing the SSB tax in Nigeria, considering the current economic situation in the country. It compels us to reflect on whether we should wait until the new generation begins regretting their unhealthy choices resulting from ignorance or societal misinformation. The WHO has recommended a reduction in the consumption of these beverages to counteract the projected 39% increase in overweight individuals by 2030.

The current tax of N10 per litre on these drinks, as outlined

Nigeria SSB Tax: Starting early is key to a healthy citizenry

in the Nigeria Finance Act 2021, is insufficient to achieve the desired change, which is crucial for promoting public health. Therefore, it is essential to sustain and increase the tax to align with the recommended global practice of at least a 20% increase in the final retail price of sugary drinks.

It is important to bear in mind that the Finance Act undergoes annual review and updates, which means that the SSB tax is subject to consistent advocacy and engagement with policymakers to ensure its longterm effectiveness. We are left with no option than to advance the need for a sustainable prohealth legislation.

Critics have argued that the poverty level in the country

makes this tax an additional burden on Nigerians, further impoverishing them. They also claim that the state of healthcare infrastructure in the country, such as inadequate facilities, insufficient healthcare personnel, and poor allocation of resources, should take precedence over the implementation or sustenance of the SSB tax. Proponents of this view believethe focus should be on addressing these factors to improve the availability and accessibility of quality healthcare services. But these suggestions beat about the bush. A specific problem requires a single bullet or multifaceted approach.

It is important to note that the SSB tax is a win-win situation for public health and

the government. By increasing the cost of these drinks, they become less affordable for lowincome earners who are most susceptible to the financial impact of NCDs like diabetes.

It is crucial to acknowledge that the inflation rate is rising and is projected to continue increasing, which will further increase the cost of healthcare services that are already burdensome for low-income earners. For instance, the minimum cost of managing diabetes is approximately N700,000 (Seven hundred thousand naira) per month in a country where state governments are still struggling to pay the minimum wage of N30,000.

To safeguard the health

and well-being of Nigerians, the decision to sustain and increase the SSB tax must be immediate to unlock significant health benefits and generate vital revenue for essential health programs and services.

Urgent and decisive action from the government is imperative to curb SSB consumption, improve public health outcomes, and combat the growing prevalence of NCDs. Enacting pro-health tax legislation that is encompassing to include the SSB tax, without delay is of utmost importance. For a healthier citizenry today and in future, starting early is key, as delay risks irreversible consequences.

Source : Opeyemi Ibitoye is a Project Officer at CAPPA .

Is the US trying to kill crypto?

Is the US out to kill crypto?

Maybe.

Three years ago, the majority of the firms in the sector that Andrew Durgee’s company invested in were based in the US.

This year, he estimates that just one out of every 10 will be - a reflection of his firm’s judgement that the country has been growing increasingly hostile to digital assets such as cryptocurrencies and tokens.

“The administration really has a target on the industry,” says Mr Durgee, managing director of the crypto division for tech firm Republic. “The regulatory uncertainty makes the investments in the US higher risk.”

The sector was already under pressure, after prices of virtual currencies collapsed last year. Further damage came from the meltdown of several high-profile firms, including FTX, run by the so-called “Crypto King” Sam Bankman-Fried, whom prosecutors have accused of conducting “one of the biggest financial frauds” in US history.

Jolted by the turmoil, US regulators stepped up their policing of the sector, which authorities say has been on notice since at least 2017 that their activity runs afoul of US financial rules intended to protect investors.

The campaign has yielded a steady drumbeat of charges against crypto firms and executives, alleging violations ranging from failing to register properly with authorities and provide adequate disclosure of their activity to, in some cases, more damaging claims such as mishandling of consumer funds and fraud.

Bitcoin, which represents the biggest chunk of value in a sector in which thousands of currencies have circulated, is viewed by officials as a commodity, like gold. That means it has been largely unaffected by the current regulatory debate, which hinges on the legal question of what constitutes a “security” - an investment like a stock or bond that is overseen by the SEC.

The efforts have instead ensnared firms issuing tokens or coins to raise money - and increasingly the exchanges on which such digital assets are bought and sold, which often hold customer funds, execute trades and engage in other activity that is separated in traditional finance.

The crackdown culminated this month in legal actions against two of the biggest platforms: Coinbase and Binance.

Gary Gensler, the chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission, defended the moves this month, comparing the state of affairs in the industry to the 1920s, before the US put in place many of the rules in question: “Hucksters. Fraudsters. Scam artists. Ponzi schemes. The public left in line at the bankruptcy court.”

Will Paige, research analyst for Insider Intelligence, says sentiment has soured significantly since 2021, when the industry was worth more than $3 trillion (£2.4tn) by some estimates and seemed poised for wider acceptance.

“It’s very much back on the fringe of finance,” he says. “Trust in the system is battered and it’s definitely gotten worse.”

In the wake of the lawsuits, customers yanked billions of dollars of funds. US banks limited their work with Binance, forcing it to stop accepting US dollars and Robinhood, the trading app, said it would stop listing certain assets named in the lawsuits, citing the “cloud of uncertainty” surrounding the tokens.

Critics accuse the SEC under Mr Gensler of hostile “regulation by enforcement” aimed at boosting his own political profile.

They say that despite repeated efforts by the industry to propose new rules, the agency has refused to acknowledge the distinctions between different types of crypto firms and the characteristics of the technology, like decentralised automated processing, that challenge existing frameworks.

“It’s been a very frustrating experience,” says Bart Stephens, managing partner of Blockchain Capital, a venture capital firm that has invested in hundreds of crypto firms, some of which he says have been struggling to find banks willing to do business with them. “There is no doubt a regulatory attack is going on.”

Bill Hughes, senior counsel of Consensys, a Texas-based software company that uses crypto’s blockchain technology, puts it even more bluntly: “The SEC has essentially determined that on its watch crypto shouldn’t exist in the United States anymore.”

Whether the SEC’s moves could actually kill the industry - in which

by at least one estimate one in every six Americans has invested - is another question.

Crypto’s wider market value remains roughly a third of what it was at its peak. Trading volumes have plunged and developer interest is falling. Trust remains low. The failures in March of some of the few traditional banks willing to do business with it marked a further blow.

Hilary Allen, a law professor at American University, thinks crypto is inherently susceptible to boomand-boost cycles and manipulation by insiders, and thinks it should be banned. She says the SEC’s actions could help re-confine crypto to the realm of tech enthusiasts, given the wider state of the industry.

“If we combine these enforcement actions with waning trust from the public, with possibly waning interest from venture capital, then maybe there isn’t a future,” she says.

But Mr Stephens, who has weathered two “crypto winters” already, says he thinks the future remains bright - if at risk of ending up overseas, given America’s current approach, which is seen as less friendly than other jurisdictions, including the UK and the EU.

He points to Bitcoin’s price, which is hovering around 2020 levels, but has gained significantly from the start of the year. Ether has also risen.

Some indicators tracked by venture firm and crypto-investor Andreessen Horowitz, such as the number of addresses active on blockchain and the number of smart contracts being executed, are also climbing.

“We’re not seeing founders stop forming new companies or protocols,” says Mr Stephens, who says Blockchain Capital invested more money in the first three months of 2023 than in any quarter in the previous 10 years, as prices fell and rival firms backed away

from the sector.

Even if the sector thrives outside the US, losing the American market would severely limit its prospects, warns Gina Pieters, a crypto expert who teaches at the University of Chicago.

“It would be a mistake to think that the US… could kill the industry. It can absolutely, though, make the crypto industry smaller,” she says.

Many in crypto are hoping for a reprieve - from the courts, which could decide the SEC has overstepped its authority; from

Congress, where draft legislation for the industry is under review; or from a change in the White House, which could prompt a policy reversal.

However those questions get decided, the issues are finally coming to a head, says Angela Walch, a research associate at the University College of London Centre for Blockchain Technologies.

“We are at a real inflection point,” she says. “The showdown is here.”

Source: BBC

SEC chairman Gary Gensler has said the sector is rife with “hucksters” but critics say he has been unwilling to engage with the industry

Deep-fried Eat Just cultivated chicken

Coinbase chief Brian Armstrong is among the crypto firms

Bill Hughes, senior counsel of Consensys, a Texas-based software company that uses crypto’s blockchain technology, puts it even more bluntly: “The SEC has essentially determined that on its watch crypto shouldn’t exist in the United States

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Man City v Inter Milan: Noel Gallagher on the Champions League final and why this has been Pep Guardiola’s greatest season

Even if Manchester City win the Champions League on Saturday to complete the Treble, Pep Guardiola won’t be totally happy - and it’s Noel Gallagher’s fault.

“Pep is always trying to get me to bring a guitar to a big game, so I can play in the dressing room afterwards,” Gallagher explained to BBC Sport.

“I went into see him after the Real Madrid game [in the semi-finals] and told him I couldn’t be at the FA Cup final or the Champions League final and, honestly, he gave me a look of utter disgust.

“It was with real contempt, as if to say ‘well what the hell are you doing instead then?’. I said ‘I am on tour’ and he said ‘cancel it!’.

“I said ‘I can’t, I’ve sold the tickets now’, and he was like ‘ahh, get out’ and he almost launched me out of his office. He probably treated me the same way he did Joao Cancelo when he got rid of him in January.”

‘An error of admin’

Gallagher, whose High Flying Birds released their latest album, Council Skies, on Friday, is touring the United States when City play Inter Milan in Istanbul and he has already missed the club’s first two victory celebrations of what has become a sensational season.

“I wasn’t at the Etihad for the Premier League trophy lift either,” he added.

“I’d made plans I couldn’t get out of for the Sunday of the Chelsea game and then, when Arsenal lost at Nottingham Forest the day before, I was like ‘wouldn’t you just know it… Arsenal, I can’t rely on you for anything!’.

“We started our tour last week so I missed the FA Cup final too. Everyone has been asking ‘are you going to be in Istanbul?’ and I have to reply: ‘no, there has been a mistake’, or an error of admin as they put it.

“My management are told never to book any gigs anywhere in the world around the Champions League final, in case City get there.

“It usually falls around my birthday, at the end of May, so when this tour was put in front of me, and it’s down to start in the US on 2 June, I am thinking great, push the button, it’s done.

“But then a few months back I suddenly thought oh no, I forgot to factor in the World Cup and how that has pushed everything back. I saw the Champions League final was 10 June - it’s never been held that late before - and I couldn’t believe it.

“Then you think well, we are not going to get there anyway, so who cares - we will probably go out in the quarter-finals again - but then we kept winning. We were getting closer and closer and I was thinking

‘oh no!’.

“To be honest though, I’ve been there to see us win so much now that I don’t care too much about not being at this one, as long as we win it.”

What would define greatness?

Noel and Pep celebrate City’s Premier League title triumph at Etihad Stadium in 2018, at the end of his second season in charge

Noel and Pep celebrate City’s Premier League title triumph at Etihad Stadium in 2018, at the end of his second season in charge. Guardiola’s next chance to see Gallagher play live might be in August when he plays a homecoming concert at Wythenshawe Park in Manchester at the end of August.

Gallagher has seen City lift plenty of silverware since Guardiola took charge in 2016, with his side collecting five Premier League titles, two FA Cups and four League Cups in the space of those seven seasons.

So far, the Champions League is the only major prize to elude the Spaniard during his time at Etihad Stadium - but Gallagher says it is nonsense to label him as a failure if he doesn’t change that on Saturday, or in the future.

He explained: “I always put it this way; if the Champions League or European Cup defines greatness then are Steaua Bucharest [who won it in 1986] a great

team?

“And Porto [who won it in 2004], are they European elite? Are they heck - they won a cup competition. Good luck to them and all that, but that’s what this is.

“The best teams don’t always win cups, do they? Arsenal are lauded as one of the great British clubs of all time, and their Invincibles are called one of the best ever teams, but they never won the Champions League and no-one says Arsene Wenger was a failure, right?

Champions League: Man City boss Pep Guardiola on his ‘exceptional legacy’

“As well as what Pep has won, when you look at how he’s done it, and the influence he has had on our game, then for anyone to even suggest that he has failed in English football if he doesn’t pick up the Champions League is an idiot, a total idiot.

“I go and watch my kids play football a lot and when you wander around the pitches on a Sunday morning when there are loads of games going on, every young coach has their teams playing out from the back.

“Knock it long and get it in the mixer? There is none of that. Pep has influenced every young football coach and therefore they have influenced every young child who plays football, and that’s just a fact.

“That in itself is a much greater legacy than the Champions League, even

though he will win it with us, hopefully on Saturday.

“Inter will give us a tougher game than Manchester United did at Wembley and I am expecting it to be a long night, but I do think we will beat them.”

Guardiola’s greatest season?

Watch Guardiola’s rant after win over Tottenham

Gallagher was the first person to interview Guardiola when he took charge at City in the summer of 2016, and has enjoyed every evolution of his team since then.

“When we played for so long without a recognised striker because Sergio Aguero was out injured, then we were waiting for Erling Haaland, I think Guardiola enjoyed the fact that we won the league with a false nine,” Gallagher said.

“He perfected that, and now he has done this thing with John Stones going into midfield - a centre-half stepping up like that is mad. No-one else comes up with this stuff, no-one.

“I was at the 4-0 win over Real Madrid last month and it felt like we had 13 men on the pitch because Real weren’t getting near us.

“It all just goes to show how Pep never stops thinking. Next season he will come up with something else, because someone will man-mark Stones.

Pep Guardiola and Noel Gallagher have celebrated plenty of Manchester City trophy successes together in the past few seasons but they won’t be reunited in Istanbul on Saturday

Diminishing roles of our traditional rulers

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Nigerian Workers Liberation Movement, Nigerian Youth Congress, Northern Elements Freedom Organisations, Northern Elements Progressive Union, Northern Elements Women’s Association, Northern Opposition United Party, Northern Peoples’ Congress, Northern Peoples’ Congress Youth Association and the Northern Progressive Front were also banned.

Other association prohibited are the Northern United Party, Northern Youth Movement, Okpara Youth Brigade, Oshun United Party, Oyo United Party, Peoples’ Party, Peoples Progressive Party, Republican Party, Rivers State Movement and the Socialist Labour Party, Socialist Movement of Nigeria, Socialist Party of Nigeria, Socialist Workers and Farmers Party, Socialist Youths of Nigeria, Tarka Youth Pioneers, Tiv State Party, United Action Committee, United Middle Belt Congress, United National Independence Party, United Progressive Grand Alliance Youth Front, United Peoples’ Party, United Progressive Grand Alliance, United Working Peoples’ Party of Nigeria, Zikist Movement and Zikist National Vanguard.

The 1963 Federal Constitution guaranteed the existence of the Oba of Lagos.

Section 41-46 of the Federal Constitution states that “there shall be a Parliament of the Federation, which shall consist of the President, a Senate and a House of Representatives. 42. Without prejudice to the provisions of section 46 of this Constitution, the Senate shall consist of ---- (a) twelve Senators representing each Region, who shall be selected at a joint sitting of the legislative houses of that Region from among persons nominated by the Governor; (b) four Senators representing the Federal territory; (c) four Senators selected by the President, acting in accordance with the advice of the Prime Minister. (2) The Senators representing the Federal territory shall be (a) the Oba of Lagos, who shall be an ex-officio member of the Senate; (b) a Chief selected in such manner as may be prescribed by Parliament by the White-Cap Chiefs of Lagos from among their own number; and (c) two other person selected for that purpose in such manner as may be prescribed by Parliament. (3) A joint sitting of the legislative houses of a Region may regulate its own procedure for the purposes of this section. 43. Without prejudice to the provisions of section 47 and 88 of this Constitution, the House of Representatives shall consist of three hundred and twelve members. 44. Subject to the provisions of section 45 of this Constitution--- (a) a person shall be qualified for selection as a Senator if he is a citizen of Nigeria and has attained the age of forty years; (b) a person shall be qualified for election as a member of the House of Representatives if he is a citizen of Nigeria and has attained the age of twentyone years and, in the case of a person who stands for election Northern Nigeria, is a male person.

Section 4 of the Northern Nigeria Constitution states that “there shall be a Legislature for the Region, which shall consist of the Governor, a House of Chiefs and a House of Assembly and which shall have power to make laws for the peace, order and good government of the Region. 5. (1) The House of Chiefs shall consist of ---- (a) all first-class Chiefs, who shall be ex-officio members of the House; (b) ninety-five Chiefs having such qualifications and selected in such manner as may be prescribed by the

Legislature of the Region; and (c) an adviser on Moslem Law. (2) The seat in the House of Chiefs of a Chief other than a first-class Chief shall become vacant in such circumstances as may be prescribed by the Legislature of the Region.

(3)In this section---

“Chief” means any person who is for the time being recognized by the Governor as a Chief; “first-class Chief” means any Chief whose office is for the time being graded as that of a first-class Chief under any law in force in the Region 6. (1) The adviser on Moslems law shall be appointed by the Governor, acting in accordance with the advice of the Premier. (2) A person holding the office of adviser on Moslems law may be removed from office by the Governor, acting in accordance with the advice of the Premier. (3) If the adviser on Moslem law is vacant or if the holder of the office is for any reason unable to perform the functions of his office, the Governor, acting in accordance with the advice of the Premier, may appoint a person to act in the office, and any person so appointed shall continue to act until his appointment is revoked by the Governor, acting in accordance with the advice of the Premier.

The Mid-Western Constitution states that “there shall be a Legislature for the Region, which shall consist of the Governor, a House of Chiefs and a House of Assembly and which shall have power to make laws for the peace, order and good government of the Region.

5---(1) Without prejudice to the provisions of section 9 of this Constitution, the House of Chiefs shall consist of ----(a) the Oba of Benin, the Olu of Warri and the persons for the time being holding such other chieftaincies as may be prescribed by the Governor, who shall be ex-officio members of the House; (b) fifty-one Chiefs having such qualifications and selected in such manner as may be prescribed by the Legislature of the Region; (c) such Special Members, being Chiefs, as may be selected by the Governor, acting in accordance with the advice of the Premier; and (d) four members selected by the Governor, acting in accordance with the advice of the Premier, to represent the interests of groups of persons resident in the special areas within the meaning of subsection (4) of section 14 of this Constitution, being groups whose interests, in the opinion of the Governor of the Governor acting as aforesaid, are not represented by members of the House of Assembly for constituencies in those areas. (2) A person shall not be a member of the House of Chiefs by virtue of paragraph (a) of subsection (1) of this section during any period when he holds office as Governor: and the number of persons who are for the time being members of that House by virtue of that paragraph or paragraph (c) of that subsection shall not in the aggregate exceed ten. (3) The seat of a member of the House of Chiefs shall become vacant--- (a) in the case of a member other than the Oba of Benin, the Olu of Warri or a Special Member, in such circumstances as may be prescribed by the Legislature of the Region; and (b) in the case of a Special Member, if he is removed from office as such a member by the Governor, acting in accordance with the advice of the Premier.

(4) In this section “Chief” means any person who is for the time being recognized as a Chief under any law in force in the Region.

6. Without prejudice to the provisions of subsection (5) of section 10 and subsection (13) of section 33 of this Constitution, the House of Assembly shall consist of sixty-five members.

The Constitution of Eastern Nigeria states that “4. There shall be a Legislature for the Region, which shall consist of the Governor, a House of Chiefs and a House of Assembly and which shall have power to make laws for peace, order and good government of the Region. 5 (1) Without prejudice to the provisions of section 9 and 34 of this Constitution, the House of Chiefs shall consist of --- (a) all traditional rulers, who shall be ex-officio members of the House; (b) firstclass Chiefs appointed to represent provinces in the Region; fifty-five Chiefs having such qualifications and selected in such manner as may be prescribed by the Legislature of the Region; and (d) such special members (not exceeding five) having such qualifications as may be prescribed by the Legislature of the Region as may be selected by the Governor acting in accordance with the advice of the Premier. (2) The seat in the House of Chiefs of a member other than an ex-officio member shall become vacant in such circumstances as may be prescribed by the Legislature of the Region. (3) In this section--- “Chief” means any person who is for the time being recognized as Chief under any law in force in the Region; “first-class Chief” means--- (a) a person who, for the purpose of representing a Province in the House of Chiefs is appointed a first-class Chief under the provisions of a law in force in the Region; or (b) any person who is for the time being recognized as a traditional Ruler under any law in force in the Region. 6. Without prejudice to the provisions of sections 10 and 34 of this Constitution, the House of Assembly shall consist of one hundred and forty-six members.

The Constitution of the Western Nigeria states that “there shall be a Legislature for the Region, which shall consist of the Governor, a House of Chiefs and a House of Assembly and which shall have power to make laws for the peace, order and good government of the Region. 5 (1) The House of Chiefs shall consist of---- (a) the persons for the time being holding such chieftaincies as may be prescribed by the Governor, who shall be ex officio members of the House; (b) eightyseven Chiefs having such qualifications and selected in such manner as may be prescribed by the Legislature of the Region; (c) such Special Members, being Chiefs (not exceeding four) as may be selected by the Governor, acting in accordance with the advice of the Premier; and (d)if he is not a member of the House of Chiefs apart from this paragraph, the President of the House. 2 (a) The seat in the House of Chiefs of a member other than an ex officio member or a Special Member shall become vacant in such circumstances as may be prescribed by the Legislature of the Region; (b) The seat in the House of Chiefs of a Special Member, including a Special Member appointed by the Governor at any time before the coming into force of the Constitution, shall become vacant if he is removed from office as a Special Member by the Governor, acting in accordance with the advice of the Premier, (3) In this section--“Chief” means any person who is for the time being recognized as a Chief under any law in force in the Region. 6. Without prejudice to the provisions of sub-section (5) of section 10 and sub-section (13) of section 33 of this Constitution, the House of Assembly shall consist of ninety-four members”.

These were institutions in existence till January 15, 1966 when General Ironsi suspended the constitution. From 1966 till 1979, the ARMY gave no role to the traditional rulers but in the 1979 Constitution a role was

given to them. In the third schedule of the 1979 Constitution, Section 140 states that 1. The Council of State shall comprise the following persons, namely--- (a) the President , who shall be the Chairman; (b) the Vice-President, who shall be the Deputy Chairman; (c) all former Presidents of the Federation and all former Heads of the Government of the Federation; (d) all former Chief Justices of Nigeria who are citizens of Nigeria; (e) the President of the Senate; (f) the Speaker of the House of Representatives; (g) all the Governors of the States of the Federation; (h) the Attorney-General of the Federation; and (i) one person from each State, who shall as respects that State be appointed by the Council of Chiefs of the States from among themselves. 2. The Council shall have power---(a) to advise the President in the exercise of his powers with respect to the National Population Census and compilation, publication and keeping of records and other information concerning the same, Prerogative of Mercy, Award of National Honours, the Federal Electoral Commission(including the appointment of members of that Commission), the Federal Judicial Service Commission (including the appointment of members, other than ex officio members of that Commission) and the National Population Commission (including the appointment of members of that Commission); and (b) to advise the President whenever requested to do so on the maintenance of public order within the Federation or any part thereof and on such other matters as the President may direct”.

Regrettably, in the 1999 Constitution, which we are still operating till today, there is no role for the traditional rulers. Not a single reference to them. It’s as if the 1999 Constitution was written by a foreigner and I don’t know why. I believe tradition and modernity should complement each other. They should not be poles apart. While modernizing, we must preserve our tradition. The other day, I saw Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah (70) from Efdom, Zangon-Kataf Local Government Area of Kaduna state, current Bishop, Roman Catholic Diocese, Sokoto, dancing with a cultural group while wearing his soutane. I don’t think his role at that event has diminished his role in the church.

On May 28, 2016, during his inauguration as President of African Development Bank, Dr. Akinwunmi Ayodeji Adeshina (63) exhibited the Yoruba Culture when he invited selected Yoruba dancers at his inauguration. It was a pure display of the Yoruba culture.

The institution of traditional rulers must not be allowed to perish. Everything must be done to sustain that institution. Luckily, we now have a President, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who believes in our tradition and culture. It is not too late now to rejig Chief Clement Ebri’s Committee’s report that Constitutional recognition be given to the role of traditional rulers. Provision should be made for the establishment of state councils of traditional rulers as an advisory body in all states of the federation.

The composition of the council of state be expanded to include Chairmen of the state councils of traditional rulers (state council of chiefs) and provision be made for traditional council at each local government area to serve as an advisory body on matters of tradition and culture and similar issues at that level. These roles in no way confer executive, legislative or judicial functions on them.”

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Europa Conference League final: West Ham treated Fiorentina like ‘animals’ in final, says president

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Diminishing roles of our traditional rulers

The Coronation of King Charles III of England on May 6 was the exhibition of the British Culture and Tradition. Give it to the British in terms of tradition, they are experts. You can’t take it from them. They don’t have a written Constitution but they maintain their tradition and culture.

We have a written Constitution but we have deleted our culture and tradition from our constitution and that is our greatest dilemma.

Marcus Garvey famously wrote: “A people without knowledge of their past history, origin and culture is like a tree without roots”.

Our traditional rulers represent the best of our tradition and culture. They have been and they will continue to be. Even in our struggle for independence they played prominent roles. It was not only the politicians that struggled for our independence, traditional rulers, journalists and others were in the struggle too.

Guest Columnist

By Eric Teniola

the car as a member of the House of Chiefs in the then Western Region to represent the then Owa of Idanre, Oba David Aladegbule Arubuefin Aroloye II, who reigned between 1918 to 1969, who was too old to travel then. Three days before traveling to Ibadan, for the meeting of the Western Region House of Chiefs, there would be festivities in and around the house of Lisa Olatunji. The House of Chiefs by then, played important roles in governance in the Western Region.

1966) took over power, there were five constitutions in the country. All the five constitutions upheld the traditional institutions in Nigeria. We had the 1963 Constitution, the Constitution of Northern Nigeria 1963, the Constitution of Eastern Nigeria 1963, the Constitution of Western Nigeria 1963 and the Constitution of Mid Western Nigeria 1964.

till today the need to ban cultural and tribal associations.

West Ham treated Fiorentina like “animals” in their Europa Conference League final success, says the Italian club’s president Rocco Commisso.

Striker Luca Jovic had to come off at half-time with a broken nose, while left-back Cristiano Biraghi was left with a bloodied face after being hit by an object thrown from the crowd.

Jarrod Bowen’s late winner saw West Ham end a 43-year wait for a trophy.

“I expected to win, but it wasn’t like that,” Commisso told local media.

“But there have been episodes on the pitch where the referee had to make the difference.

“I spoke to the president of the Premier League, those of West Ham are animals in the way they treated ours. It’s not right.

“This match could be won 3-0. I’m sorry for the fans, they deserved more.”

Separately, the Serie A club “strongly condemned” what happened to Biraghi.

“This unacceptable behaviour obviously affected the performance of the footballer and his teammates, who had their attention drawn away from footballing matters by the threats to their own safety,” Fiorentina said.

It added it was “certain” European football’s governing body Uefa would “duly punish those responsible for this act, delivering an appropriate response and setting an example so that such situations never occur again”.

From May 23 to June 26, 1957, Nigeria took a bold step towards nationhood at the London Constitutional Conference at Lancaster House. Prominent traditional rulers were delegates to that conference. Among whom were, the Emir of Kano, Alhaji Muhammadu Sanusi KBE, who was acting governor of Northern Nigeria in 1957 and the Emir of Kano between 1954-1963, the Emir of Katsina, Alhaji Dr. Muhammadu Kabir Usman (January 1928- March 8, 2008), the 49th Emir of Katsina, the Ooni of Ife, Sir Titus Martins Adesoji Tadeniawo Aderemi (15 November 1889 –July 3, 1980), KCMG, KBE, who later became the governor of Western Region, the Ewi of Ado Ekiti, Oba Daniel Akomolafe Anirare Aladesanmi II (1907- 7 January 1983, the Attah of Igala, Alhaji Aliyu Ocheja Obaje GCFR (1910 – July 16, 2012) , the 26th Attah of Igala and Chief Uyong Essien Akpan Efion-Iwat Effembe Ebit Akpan Amaide Oku (9 November 1872- 15 October 1976), traditional ruler of Uyo in Akwa Ibom state.

When I was growing up in Idanre, my hometown in the late fifties, myself and my cousin, Chief Babu Akinbobola used to visit our friend, Chief Pino Olatunji, to see the car of his father, Chief Olatunji, who was the Lisa of Idanre, second in command. It was a red Pontiac American car.

Chief Pino used to oblige us to enter the car. Lisa Olatunji acquired

During that time, some members of the House of Chiefs were Ministers without portfolio. Among them were Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Isaac Babalola Akinyele (18 April 1882 – 30 May 1964) who reigned from 1955 to 1965, the Osemawe of Ondo, Oba Tewogboye II, the Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Samuel Omotosho Abimbola, who reigned from 1958-1982, the Obi of Agbor, Oba Obika A. Gbenoba, the Olu of Warri, Oba Erejuwa II who reigned from 1951 to 1964 and from 1966 to 1986, ỌmỌ n’Ọba n’Ọdo Uku Akp Ọ l Ọ kp Ọ l Ọ , Akenzua II (7 January 1899 – 11 June 1978) , the Oba of Benin, who reigned from 1933 to 1978, the Olowo of Owo, Sir Olateru Olagbegi II (August 1910-1998), the Owa Obokun of Ijesha land, Oba A.O. Biladu III, the Alake of Egbaland, Oba Sir Ladapo Samuel Ademola(1872-1962) who ruled from 27 Sep 1920 - 27 Dec 1962 and the Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona (89), Ogbagba Agbotewole II, who was crowned on April 2, 1960.

On January 15, 1966, when General Johnson Thomas Umunnakwe Aguiyi-Ironsi GCFR MBE (3 March 1924 – 29 July

On assuming power, General Ironsi suspended the five constitutions under decree number 1. He replaced them with a national government. At that time, the Emir of Gwandu, Alhaji Muhammadu Mera, was the President of the Northern House of Chiefs, the Osemawe of Ondo, Oba Rufus Adesokeji Aderele Tewogboye II, who reigned between 1942 and 1974 was the President of Western House of Chiefs, Chief Essien Uyo was the President of Eastern House of Chiefs and Oba Akenzua was the President of the Mid-Western House of Chiefs.

General Ironsi immediately banned twenty-six tribal and cultural associations. They are Borno State Union, Egbe Atunluse Ibadan, Egbe Igbomina Parapo, Egbe Omo Oduduwa, Egbe Omo Olofin, Egbe Omo Yoruba, Egbe Yoruba Parapo, Ekiti Northern, Ekiti Parapo, Ekiti Progressive Union, Ibadan Parapo, Ibibio State Union, Ibo State Union or Ibo Union, Ibo Youth Congress, Ibo Youth League, Idoma Tribal Union, Igbira Tribal Union I and II, Ijaw Progressive Union, Kajola Society, Lagos Aborigines Society, Oganiru Society, Okaa Society, Oshun Parapo, Otu-Edo, Oyo Parapo and Yoruba State Union. I still wonder

General Ironsi also banned eighty-one political parties. They are Action Group, Afenmai Peoples’ Congress, Awo National Brigade, Bornu Youth Movement, Calabar Emancipation League, Calabar, Ogoja, River State Movement, Common Peoples Party of Nigeria, Communist Party of Nigeria, Democratic Party of Nigeria, Dynamic Party, Eastern Nigeria Liberation Movement, Eastern Peoples’ Congress, GhanaNigeria Socialist Group, Habe Peoples’ Party, Ibadan Crusaders of Freedom, Ijumu Progressive Union, Kalabari Peoples’ Congress, Kano Peoples’ Party, Kano State Movement, Lagos Citizen Rights Protection Council, Lagos and Colony Peoples’ Congress, Lagos Separate State Movement, League of Northern Yorubas, Mabolaje Party, Middle Belt Congress of Nigeria, Middle Belt Peoples’ Party, Mid-West Democratic Front, MidWest Youth Association, Moslem Peoples’ Party, Movement for Colonial Freedom, Muslim United Party and the National Convention of Nigeria Citizens.

The National Emancipation League, National Youth Council of Nigeria, National Youth Front, Niger Delta Congress, Niger Delta Volunteer Service, Nigerian Communist Party, Nigerian Council for Peace, Nigerian Labour Party, Nigerian Marxist Group in Germany(GDR), Nigerian National Alliance, Nigerian National Democratic Party, Nigerian National Youth Brigade, Nigerian Peoples’ Party—The New Nigeria, Nigeria Socialist Group,

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