Index to Nigerian Newspapers

Dominic Omokaro is the president and chairman of the Nigerian Library Association (NLA). He is concerned that students have abandoned school libraries and links the increase in the number of half-baked graduates to lack of interest in reading. To address this, the theme for the library week was 'Revitalizing the School Library System: The Way Forward'. The federal government has not employed librarians to run their school libraries in the last 20 or 30 years, leading to the demise of the school system. Professional librarians are needed to help man these libraries and inculcate readership education on students. The author has met with the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education to drive home the issue, and they have promised to look into it. If young people channel their minds into reading, it will reduce crime.

Dogo Gide, a prominent banditry kingpin, has abducted 11 female students of the Federal Government College, Birnin Yauri, in Kebbi State, and is holding them despite payment of ransom and prisoner swaps. Gide is believed to be the closest to jihadi groups due to his long association with Ansaru, and has threatened to convert the students by training the males on gun-handling and marrying off the females. Gide and his men are said to be living freely in Birnin Gwari suburbs of Kamfanin Doka and Gwaska.

The debate over Nigeria's restructuring has been a significant topic in the national discourse. Some believe it is a secessionist movement, while others believe it is about fiscal federalism and a return to regionalism. Some argue that the presidential system should be abandoned to allow for autonomous regional powers. However, some believe that restructuring is just politics and that the country has been restructuring since the military intervention in 1966. Some argue that the current constitution is not representative of the people's desires, and that a sovereign national conference could be the solution. Alhaji Bahir Uthman Tofa, a former presidential candidate of the defunct National Republican Convention, believes that the clamour for restructuring is a result of frustrations in various parts of the country. The debate on restructuring has dominated the national discourse, with some arguing that it is a manifestation of frustrations in the country.

The Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) has said the 114 per cent increase in the salaries of elected politicians, including the president, vice president, governors, lawmakers as well as judicial and public office holders is still a proposal.

RMAFC chairman, Muhammadu Shehu, represented by a federal commissioner, Rakiya Tanko-Ayuba, had presented reports of the reviewed remuneration package to Governor Nasir Idris of Kebbi State, on Tuesday. Shehu was reported to have urged the 36 states’ Houses of Assembly to hasten efforts on amendment of relevant laws to give room for upward review of remuneration packages for political, judicial and public officers.

RMAFC is saddled with the responsibility of determining the appropriate remuneration for political officeholders including the president, vice president, governors, deputy governors, ministers, commissioners, special advisers, legislators and the holders of the offices as mentioned in sections 84 and 124 of the constitution. The proposal, which was developed during ex-President Muhammadu Buhari’s tenure, needs the approval of 2/3 of states assemblies before it is presented to the President for assent.

The Federal Ministry of Health warns 171 local government areas (LGAs) in 14 states are at high risk of spreading the diphtheria outbreak. The partnership, in collaboration with the National Primary Health Care Development Agency, Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, states, and partners, aims to intensify mass vaccination to curb the outbreak in two phases. Diphtheria affects people of all ages, particularly children, and targets the respiratory system.

Gunmen have kidnapped a popular Anambra State-based native doctor, Chinedu Nwangwu, alias Akwa Okuko Tiwaraki, after killing two of his aides in one of his hotels, Triple P Hotel, in Idemili North LGA of Anambra State. A source said that Tiwaraki was regarded to be among the strongest and was the richest witch doctor in Anambra.

The source said that many people were reported to flock to his mansion in Oba for anti-bullet charms and other money rituals. Police spokesperson in the state, DSP Toochukwu Ikenga, said the incident happened around 11pm on Sunday but that he had been released.

Not less than 201 people have been reported killed within five months in 27 attacks in seven local government areas in Plateau State, Daily Trust reports. The killings occurred between January 19 and June 20. The local governments are Riyom, Bokkos, Jos South, Jos East, Barkin Ladi, Bassa and Mangu. The figure is based on data sourced from reported killings in the state, therefore, the casualty figure may be higher. 

Residents and pundits have expressed worry over the recent killings in the state, recalling similar incidents first recorded in 2001 which dragged on for over a decade and claimed hundreds of lives and property worth billions of naira. They noted that while insecurity climaxed during the administrations of former Governors Joshua Dariye and Jonah Jang, there was a reprieve from 2015 when Simon Bako Lalong took over until around the twilight of his administration when the dark old days of killings resurfaced. 

The National Leader of the All Progressives Congress yesterday had his presidential aspirations strengthened by the endorsement of Niger State Governor Abubakar Sani Bello. Speaking when he saw Tinubu at the government residence for Niger State, where cattle rustling and banditry occur daily, much like they did on Wednesday, he claimed his visit to the former leader was to ask for blessing. He said prayers for me.You're curious about the consultation's conclusion. We are a democracy in operation. We are in charge of a democracy.

President Muhammadu Buhari has stated that he does not care who succeeds him in 2023, unlike former President Olusegun Obasanjo who worked to ensure that late President Umaru Musa Yar'adua succeeded him in 2007. On the leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, Buhari said he cannot release him because he would not interfere in the judicial process. He also said the government was open to a political solution if he turned a new leaf. Buhari said Kanu should be given an opportunity to defend himself in Nigeria's system  and that there is a possibility of a political solution if he behaves himself. He also expressed no fear for the unity of Nigeria, as he has been in detention for more than three years and believes that Nigeria is better together than separate. On restructuring, he asked promoters to properly define the concept and look at the map of Nigeria to determine what they mean in their own concept of restructuring.

The National Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has received the endorsement of Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-olu. He claims that Tinubu is the most qualified Nigerian to serve as president in 2023 due to his undeniable ability to effectively manage human and material resources for visible progress. Tinubu is the most qualified successor and electable candidate for the position because of his workable ideas for governing. The name Tinubu is synonymous with growth and development because, according to him, he has the Midas touch, which he uses to turn around the nation's resources for the benefit of everybody, as he has remarked.

With 78.7% of all new registrations in the Independent National Electoral Commission's (INEC) ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) campaign, Nigerian youths between the ages of 18 and 34 are leading the pack ahead of the 2023 general elections. Youth registered 1,093,834 new registrants out of 1,390,519 legitimate registrants, while middle-aged enrollment peaked at 210,233 or 15%. Yakubu claimed that the 2011 implementation of biometric voter registration helped to sanitise the register.

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) reports that 3.3 million people are now internally displaced in Nigeria as a result of numerous crises. Finda Koroma, vice president of the ECOWAS Commission, stated at a stakeholder workshop on the "Best practises for stabilisation in West Africa" that the subregion needed to address the challenge of displacement. For instance, the Militant Islamist group has displaced 1.2 million people in Burkina Faso. Additionally, Boko Haram's brutal attacks in the North East have forced about 2.5 million Nigerians to flee their homes. We must devise a strategy to enable these communities to return to their houses. We established the ECOWAS fund for regional stabilisation and development in weak member states in collaboration with the German government.This program's goals are to stabilise areas that have experienced a war by giving those areas access to critical services and sustainable economic possibilities, as well as by building or renovating important national infrastructure.

Four miners were killed when a mining pit collapsed on them in Kogo Kadage forest, Bauchi State. The incident occurred while miners were digging lead ore. Ningi LGA Chairman Hon Ibrahim Zubairu confirmed the incident, stating four people were trapped in the pit and three died instantly. Zubairu constituted a committee to check mining activities and requested Burra Divisional Police Officer supervision.

The federal government says 43 percent of Nigerian children between the ages of five and 11 actively participate in economic activities. Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Labour and Employment, Daju Kachollom, said this in Abuja yesterday when she led a road walk to the National Human Rights Commission’s headquarters. She noted that child labour violates children’s rights to education, health, mental and moral growth.

She cited the 2016-2017 MICS Survey stating that 39 percent of children engaged in child labour work in such dangerous industries as artisanal mining, granite quarrying, commercial sexual exploitation, and armed conflict. She said the government was committed to the global fight against child labour.

A 6-month-old baby, Chinedu Chukwueke, has reportedly been stolen at his mother’s salon shop in Kure Ultra-Modern Market, Minna, Niger State. The father of the boy, Chikezie Stanley Chuks, broke the sad news on his Facebook page. He wrote, “Good afternoon, pls my baby boy by name Chinedu Chukwueke of 6 months old was taken from my wife’s shop today Sunday 23 July, 2023 at Kure market Minna. Pls any useful information about this little baby should be reported to the nearest Police station or contact 07033186837.”

The worried father said, “She’s of average height, light in complexion, with 11 facial marks. She spoke Igala and introduced herself as Rabi. She was wearing a red dress with a matching hijab.”

When contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) in Niger State, DSP Wasiu Abiodun, said the incident had not been officially reported to the Police. “I wish to use this medium to advise the parent to report at GRA Police Division, which covers Kure Market for documentation and necessary in-depth investigation towards ensuring the rescue of the baby and arrest of the culprit,” he said.

Seven persons have sustained injuries in Sabongida village, Gassol Local Government Area of Taraba State on Wednesday following disagreement over election into the executive of Porters' Association. An eye witness said the election was peaceful and many adjudged it to be free and fair. The Council Chairman allegedly ordered the Gassol Divisional Police Officer (DPO) and some officials of the council to escort the defeated Yakubu Saleh and install him to continue in office. The Chairman of Sabongida Development Association blamed the crisis on the Chairman of Gasol Local Government Area for trying to impose the former chairman. The Sabongida Development Association chairman has called on the government and security agencies to call the chairman of Gasol to order to forestall further breakdown of law and order in the area.

Seven persons have sustained injuries in Sabongida village, Gassol Local Government Area of Taraba State on Wednesday following disagreement over election into the executive of Porters' Association. An eye witness said the election was peaceful and many adjudged it to be free and fair. The Council Chairman allegedly ordered the Gassol Divisional Police Officer (DPO) and some officials of the council to escort the defeated Yakubu Saleh and install him to continue in office. The Chairman of Sabongida Development Association blamed the crisis on the Chairman of Gasol Local Government Area for trying to impose the former chairman. The Sabongida Development Association chairman has called on the government and security agencies to call the chairman of Gasol to order to forestall further breakdown of law and order in the area.

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Tin Can Island command reported on Wednesday that it had seized 145 kilogrammes of Indian hemp being smuggled into the nation by "merchants of death" in addition to eight containers filled with cutlasses. Oloyede claimed that the matchetes were seized because of national security concerns and that no end-user certificate from the NSA's office had been issued for the importation of such devices. Oloyede added that attempts were being made to find individuals responsible for the import.

A former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar (rtd), has cautioned the Federal Government against increasing the pump price of petroleum, saying it would push millions of Nigerians deeper into poverty.

Petrol currently sells for between N162 and N165 per litre. But the National Economic Council had reportedly recommended N302 per litre as part of government’s plan to fully deregulate the sector and eliminate monthly subsidy paymentsSpeaking in Abuja at the Dialogue, Abdulsalami said the proposed fuel price hike would worsen the condition of millions of young people and women, the demographic groups most affected by the country’s sick economic and acute insecurity.

He warned that the worsening economic and security situations during an election year make for a very challenging period for Nigeria that must be carefully managed by all concerned.

Abdulsalami, who chaired the dialogue, said though the country’s economic growth rates and inflation had improved somewhat in the last three months as official figures showed, the impact on the lives and wellbeing of the ordinary Nigerian was suspect. He said: “Insecurity in the country is worsened by our dire economic situation. Unemployment and underemployment remain at the record levels, and over 80 million Nigerians are still caught up in needless poverty.

The Nigerian Air Force has announced the appointment of New Branch Chiefs and Air Officers Commanding (AOCs) and other senior officers. These include Air Vice Marshal (AVM) Ayoola Jolasinmi, Air Training Command (ATC), Musa Muktar, AVM Charles Ohwo, AVM Jackson Yusuf, AVM Abubakar Liman, AVM Emmanuel Wonah, AVM Raimi Salami, AVM Olatokunbo Adesanya, AVM Aliyu Bello, AVM Nelson Calmday, and AVM Paul Jemitola. The appointment was a routine exercise intended to reinvigorate the service for greater performance, enhanced productivity, operational efficiency, and effective service delivery. The Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Oladayo Amao, has appointed new appointees to various positions in the Nigerian Air Force. These include AVM John Ochomma, AVM Idi Lubo, AVM Anthony Tuwase, AVM Mohammed Yakubu, AVM Sayo Olatunde, AVM Abraham Adole, AOC TAC, Makurdi, AVM Tajudeen Yusuf, AOC SOC, Bauchi, AVM Iboro Etukudo, AOC MC, Yenagoa, AVM Nanjul Kumzhi, AOC ATC, Kaduna, AVM Emmanuel Eze, Air Commodore Esen Efanga, and Group Captain Dogari Apyeyak.

Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri has pledged to prosecute individuals who allegedly colluded with the suspended Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Resident Electoral Commissioner, Hudu Ari, during the 2023 gubernatorial election. Fintiri commended INEC for remaining impartial despite the REC's "irresponsible and unlawful" conduct. He emphasized the need for legal action against those involved to protect the electoral process and democratic culture from abuse. Fintiri called on the opposition and those wanting the state to develop to join his government in taking the state to another stage of development. Ari stirred controversy when he announced Aishatu "Binani" Dahiru as the winner of the governorship during the 2023 general election.

The dollar has crashed to between N805 to N790 at the parallel exchange market on Tuesday Daily Trust can authoritatively report. It started a steady decline from N925 to N930 that it was exchanged in the morning till around 4:00 pm when news about a possible Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) intervention filtered through to the Bureau De Change (BDC) operators. Recall that the CBN announced plans to take critical decisions to reverse the slide of the naira in the next few days, thereby resulting in significant losses to the speculators. The acting CBN governor, Folashodun Shonubi, dropped the hint on Monday while briefing State House reporters after a meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

The Ministry of Aviation has said the planned concession of four most profitable airports in Nigeria to private investors will still happen before the end of President Muhammadu Buhari-led administration in May 2023. It is not clear when the financial bids will happen, but some stakeholders have expressed doubts the concession process will still happen in the lifetime of this government. Shehu Dogo Mohammed said the concession process is advanced and will happen in the lifetime of the government. Comrade Hector Nnadi said there are issues in the planned concession and personnel management automation is now critical. Nigerians can now earn US Dollars by acquiring premium domain names.

The wife of the President, Aisha Muhammadu Buhari, has called on mothers to take adequate care of their babies through immunisation, exclusive breastfeeding and provision of proper nutrition. She also called on mothers to note the importance of ante-natal, hospital deliveries and post-natal care to address the challenges of maternal and child mortality, as well as maintain basic sanitation and hygiene. ,.

The wife of the President, Aisha Muhammadu Buhari, has called on mothers to take adequate care of their babies through immunisation, exclusive breastfeeding and provision of proper nutrition. She also called on mothers to note the importance of ante-natal, hospital deliveries and post-natal care to address the challenges of maternal and child mortality, as well as maintain basic sanitation and hygiene.

The wife of the President, Aisha Muhammadu Buhari, has called on mothers to take adequate care of their babies through immunisation, exclusive breastfeeding and provision of proper nutrition. She also called on mothers to note the importance of ante-natal, hospital deliveries and post-natal care to address the challenges of maternal and child mortality, as well as maintain basic sanitation and hygiene.

Civil society organizations and a security expert have criticized Senate President Godswill Akpabio for linking the killings of 16 military personnel in Delta State to foreign mercenaries. The troops were killed while on a peace mission to the warring communities of Okuoma and Okoloba. Akpabio spoke during plenary when the Senate resolved to constitute a committee to unravel the circumstances behind the military personnel's killings. He urged a thorough investigation to determine whether the perpetrators were mercenaries outside Nigeria.Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, Executive Director of the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) and Transparency International-Nigeria (TI-Nigeria), criticized Akpabio's comments, stating that a criminal is a criminal regardless of their origin. The Executive Director of the CLEEN Foundation, Gad Peter, said political leaders should be careful about their comments "after incidents or crimes have taken place."
Chairman of the Senate Committee on Defence, Ahmad Lawan, described the soldiers' killings as an assault on security and stability of the Niger Delta region. He urged security agencies to investigate the killings, bring the perpetrators to justice, and restore peace and order in the area.

The Akwa Ibom State government has started the ejection of illegal miners from their places of operation to protect the environment.

The Commissioner for Environment and Mineral Resources, Chief Uno Etim Uno, revealed that the government ejected a Chinese mining company, Ruitai Mining Company from its operation base in Esuk Ikim Akeme community, Ibeno Local Government Area, where it was illegally mining titanium ore. 

Speaking on Tuesday in Uyo, Uno stated that he, alongside the Commissioner, Ministry of Internal Security, Brig. Gen. Koko Essien (rtd), on an inspection of Ruitai Mining facility discovered that it was involved in illegal mining.

He explained that the product, black clay-like minerals, was discovered in sack bags of 50kg. However, the Managing Director and Director of the company, Zeng Zhonghuan and Huang Ying, were absent at the site, while the available staff members could not provide any information or documents on their right to operate in the area. 

 He explained that upon the discovery, the government invited the police and army to take over the site pending when the company was cleared to operate, adding that Ruitai was given until Friday this week to present documents qualifying them to mine the mineral.

He stated that further enquiry revealed that the company was an exploration company, whose Board of Directors comprised only Chinese persons, therefore, not eligible to acquire the small-scale mining license as they claimed.

Former governor of Rivers State and a minister-designate, Nyesom Wike, on Tuesday, visited the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr Abdullahi Umar Gnaduje, in Abuja. Wike, leader of the G-5 Governors, who worked against the main opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, in the 2023 election, has repeatedly denied plotting to join the ruling party. The PDP chieftain who is believed to have worked for the success of President Bola Tinubu during the presidential election in Rivers State, was received by Ganduje at his residence in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja. Details of the visit were sketchy but a post by the ruling party on X (formerly known as Twitter), indicates that the former governor’s visit to the APC national chairman was to congratulate him on his election to the position. Daily Trust reports that shortly before the senate confirmed him as a minister, Wike told BBC Pidgin why he had been hobnobbing with APC chieftains. The former governor, who had earlier used the illustration of malaria and cancer to dismiss speculations that he was on the way to the ruling party, gave clarification. Earlier when asked if he was thinking of dumping the PDP in the heat of the face-off with Atiku, Wike had said, “I get malaria, na cancer I dey find?”  However, defending his recent moves, including making it to Tinubu’s cabinet, the former governor said while someone can die of Malaria, a person with cancer can get healed if he has the opportunity of meeting a better doctor.

Amnesty International and some activists have challenged the Lagos State government to disclose the identities of the 103 #ENDSARS victims billed for mass burial. Daily Trust, on Monday, reported that in a letter dated July 19 by the Lagos State Government Public Procurement Agency titled: Letter of No Objection – Mass Burial for the 103, the Year 2020 ENDSARS victims, the state government engaged the service of a private firm, Messrs Tos Funeral Ltd, at the cost of N61,285,000 to bury 103 victims of the protest. 

“Following review of your request and based on the information provided therein, the agency has “No Objection” to the award of contract to MESSRS TOS FUNERALS LIMITED at a total cost of N61,285,000 (Sixty-one million, two hundred and eighty-five thousand Naira only) for the mass burial for the 103, the year 2020 Endsars victims,” noted the Director- General of the Lagos State Public Procurement Agency, Mr Onafowote Idowu in the letter addressed to the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health.

Responding to the leaked document, the Director of Amnesty International Nigeria, Isa Sanusi, said the Nigerian authorities must urgently halt the plans to carry out a secret mass burial of the victims. It demanded a thorough and independent investigation into the killings and ensure that those suspected to be responsible were brought to justice in fair trials.

A Professor of Political Science and International Relations, Babafemi Badejo, has said though former President Muhammadu Buhari failed woefully in the fight against corruption, his successor, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, will be worse. Badejo stated this while delivering the first inaugural lecture of Chrisland University, Abeokuta, Ogun State, titled: “Interests.”

He submitted that Tinubu, judging from his actions in the last one month, would do by far than Buhari in other areas, but not in the fight against corruption. “It is my own view that former President Muhammadu Buhari failed woefully on the issue of anti-corruption. He did start by wanting to implement the UN anti-corruption’s strategy and went further to appoint a committee and that committee did nothing till today.”

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has resolved the crisis rocking the All Progressives Congress (APC) over the principal officers of the ruling party at the National Assembly, Daily Trust reliably gathered last night.  A fresh crisis erupted in the ruling party on Tuesday when the National Chairman, Senator Abdullahi Adamu, rejected the principal officers of the party announced by both the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas. 

Akpabio and Abbas had announced the principal officers of the APC, including the majority leaders, chief whips and their deputies during the plenary. But shortly after the announcement, Adamu was quoted as saying the list did not emanate from the party although the governors of the party under the aegis of Progressive Governors’ Forum (PGF) endorsed the new officers.

President Muhammadu Buhari's body language as to his preferred candidate for the presidential ticket of the All Progressive Congress (APC) has unsettled aspirants such as Vice President Yemi Osinbanjo, national leader Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, and Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi. The lack of clarity on the president's direction is fuelling agitation among the aspirants and their supporters as the deadline for the conduct of the political parties' primaries approaches.

Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to put measures in place to avert industrial action. The union embarked on strikes for several months during the last administration of former President Muhammad Buhari over issues concerning funding and platform for payment of lecturers’ salaries.

ASUU President, Prof Emmanuel Osodeke said the union foresaw an improved working relationship between ASUU and the federal government led by President Tinubu. He, however, expressed worry over what he called bureaucratic attack on Nigerian universities by the federal government.

He described as anomaly the government’s undue interference in university administrations, including usurping the powers of councils, appointments and salary payments of staff members. 

The National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE) yesterday directed officials of the Aviation Security (AVSEC) and logistics sub-sector to commence an immediate strike from today, August 16th, 2023. The union in a circular said the withdrawal of service became inevitable after the expiration of the ultimatum given to the affected organisations. The circular was sent to the Director-General, Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Managing Director, Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Commissioner of Police, Airports Command, the Airport Commandant, Director, Department of State Security (DSS), Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos Command. The circular signed by the General Secretary, NUATE, Comrade Ocheme Aba, decried the poor working conditions of AVSEC workers who are mostly graduates, saying they are being paid a paltry N30,000 monthly salary. The Circular read, “As you are all aware, the union has done everything possible to resolve the lingering crisis of extreme impoverishment of employees of Aviation Security (AvSec) & logistics sub-sector of the aviation industry in Nigeria, but to no avail. “The managements of all the companies in the business have all failed to secure decent contracts that can avail fair remuneration for their workers.  “With current salary levels as low as N30,000 a month for graduates, there is no gain saying that AvSec employment in Nigeria is nothing other than a slave labour camp; to call a spade a spade. “This situation can no longer be allowed to continue. In this regard, and further to our letter of ultimatum dated 26th June, 2023, all workers in all Aviation Logistics companies in Nigeria are hereby directed to totally withdraw services as from August 16, 2023 indefinitely, until our demand for fair remuneration is met.

The new National President of Society of Women in Taxation (SWIT), Mrs Bosede Florence Ikhanoba, has said that SWIT will carry out a lot of enlightenment on tax matters during her tenure. Mrs Ikhanoba stated this during her investiture as the fifth National President of SWIT in Abuja on Saturday. She said, “We want everybody to know why they should pay their tax .Tax is an obligation. Every one of us must understand that you are obligated to pay part of your income to the government. It is what you pay that the government uses to fix infrastructure. So, once you pay your tax, you can hold the government accountable.”

She further stated that during her tenure the group would help to advocate for women in business. The National President of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN), Mr Samuel Agbeluyi, who swore in Mrs Ikhanoba, said he expected the progress of the society and CITN during her tenure. The Executive Secretary, Joint Tax Board (JTB), Hajiya Nana-Aisha Obomeghie, said the board would collaborate with SWIT to help enlighten women in business on their obligation in terms of tax filing and the benefits they would get when they were tax-compliant.

Women in Taxation (SWIT), Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN), Joint Tax Board (JTB), Business, Finance 

Bakers in Lagos have increased the price of bread, citing the rising cost of production, Daily Trust can report. Our correspondent learnt that the price adjustment ranges from N50 to N200 for some categories of loaves. 

President of the Premium Bread Makers Association of Nigeria (PBAN), Emmanuel Onuorah, told our correspondent that the last adjustment was done a year ago, saying the price of baking ingredients had gone up. He said, “The price of sugar increased by about N10,000 in the last two months; flour added about N2,000 recently and flour makes up about 65 % of our inputs followed by diesel which is about 80 %, and then sugar which is about 16%.

“So this is inevitable because once your cost and revenue are disproportionate, it is either you are doing an adjustment or you are closing shop. So many businesses have closed.”

Kebbi state Governor, Dr. Nasir Idris has vowed to tackle the insecurity occasioned by incessant bandits' attacks in Zuru Emirate of Kebbi South. The governor while receiving the Emir of Zuru, at the government house, Birnin Kebbi on tuesday said his administration had resolved to change the negative security narrative in that part of the state. He also expressed his worry that the farming and trading activities of the people of the area had been badly affected by the security challenges, he vowed to ensure normalcy returned to the emirate 

The Federal Capital Territory Police Command has raided some communities in Kogi, Niger, Kaduna, Nasarawa, Benue and Plateau States, over the rising activities of bandits in the FCT. Operation G-7 arrested three Chinese nationals, a community leader and some illegal miners, and recovered firearms from them. The JTF also raided Azam village, where an illegal mining site was discovered and 21 illegal miners were arrested.

According to Daily Trust, on Thursday, bandits stormed Ariko village, a Fulani community in Kachia LGA of Kaduna State, where they killed two people and kidnapped three more. Yesterday, according to sources in Jere town, the incident took place when the bandits raided one Alhaji Awu's home in Ariko village in an effort to kidnap him. The bandits took him out of the compound after he allegedly resisted them. They abducted Alhaji Awu and his two children, a boy and a girl, against their will. Alhaji Awu's hugged her son in a pool of his own blood, and the bandits smiled as they witnessed it, he claimed.

Seven soldiers and 22 farmers were killed in a gunfight between troops of Operation Hadarin Daji and bandits near Kangon Garucci in Dangulbi district in the Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara State. “While some of the residents were killed after they were trapped while working on their farmlands, some of them were caught in a crossfire between soldiers and criminals.

“The attack was led by one Ali Kawajo, Damina and another bandits’ leader called ‘Black.’ Black has enslaved the majority of the farmers in the area as he frequently asks them to work on his farmlands,” said a resident, Sani Baba. The spokesman of Operation Hadarin Daji, Captain Ibrahim Yahaya, could not be reached for comments at the time of filing this report.

Meanwhile, troops of Sector 1 Operation Hadarin Daji in conjunction with troops deployed at Forward Operating Base (FOB) Wanke in Gusau LG have killed at least seven bandits. The Commander of the Joint Task Force, North-West, Operation Hadarin Daji, Major General Godwin Mutkut commended the troops for their bravery and resilience in dealing with the bandits.

The 72 million mobile phone lines that telecom companies stopped last week won't be unblocked, according to the federal government, until the owners' National Identity Numbers (NINs) are connected. According to the NCC, the information is necessary in light of a viral web that is going around on social media and on some websites. The accompanying narrative is blatantly false and was created to deceive the public about SIM cards that are prohibited from making calls because they were not linked to NIN by the deadline.

The Bauchi State Governor, Bala Muhammad, has forwarded the names of 24 commissioner nominees to the House of Assembly for screening and confirmation, Speaker of the house, Abubakar Y. Suleiman, who disclosed this on Monday during plenary, said the house received a message from the governor requesting it to screen and confirm nominees for appointment as commissioners and members of the State Executive Council (SEC) in line with the provisions of the 1999 Constitution.

The Majority Leader of the house, Saleh Hodi Jibir, read out the nominees as follows: Maiwada Bello and Ibrahim Gambo (Alkaleri); Mahmoud Babamaji Abubakar and Danlami Ahmed Kawule (Bauchi); Tsammani Lydia Haruna (Bogoro); Ahmed Sarki Jalam (Dambam); Yakubu Ibrahim Hamza (Darazo); Usman Santuraki (Dass) and Abdul Hassan Gamawa and Muhammad Salees (Gamawa). Others are Dr Yakubu Adamu (Giade); Usman Abdulkadir Moddibo (Jama’are); Hajara Jibrin Gidado (Itas/Gadau); Farouk Mustapha (Katagum); Hajara Yakubu Wanka (Kirfi); Aminu Hammayo (Misau); Hassan El-Yakub (Ningi); Muhammad Hamisu Shira (Shira); Simon Madugu Yalams and Abubakar Abdulhamid Bununu (Tafawa Balewa); Jamila Muhammad Dahiru and Adamu Umar Sambo (Toro) and Abdulrazak Nuhu Zaki and Amina Muhammad Katagum (Warji).

The house resolved to screen the nominees on August 2, 3 and 4, 2023.

Bauchi State Government 

The erstwhile Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Abdulrasheed Bawa, is still in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) one week after he was suspended, Daily Trust reports. Although officials of the secret police have yet to make offence(s) of the embattled former anti-graft agency boss public, it was learnt that Bawa is still being grilled over his role in the currency redesign.

A source said there are other issues he’s being grilled on but his role in the February cash crunch topped his issues. It would be recalled that operatives of SSS immediately picked him up shortly after he was suspended by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. 

Meanwhile, human rights advocates and civil society organisations, have faulted the continued detention of the former EFCC chairman, calling on the secret police to either charge him to court or release him.

Ekiti State governor, Mr.  Biodun Oyebanji, has charged the National Directorate of Employment (NDE) to devise more innovative ways to create profitable jobs for Nigerian youths. He gave the charge yesterday in Ado Ekiti while interacting with the leadership of the NDE at the governor’s office.

The Kogi State governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, has approved 60 years as the retirement age for law officers in the employment of the state government. He said the length of service would no longer apply to them. The state Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Ibrahim Sanni Muhammed (SAN), disclosed this Wednesday in Lokoja at a Two- Day Training Workshop for Law Officers, from the Kogi State Office of the Public Defender and Citizens’ Commission, (PDCRC) and Ministry of Justice.

Mohammed explained that the new retirement age for law officers would ensure that the system benefits maximally from their skills and experience, particularly those the state government has invested heavily in.

The Benue State House of Assembly has begged teachers and other workers affected by the ongoing verification exercise not to embark on any protest. Our correspondent reports that the Nigerian Union of Teachers (NUT) in the state had threatened a strike if the state government failed to resolve issues surrounding the mass demotion of its members by Wednesday (yesterday).

But the assembly in a statement signed by the spokesman of the speaker, Akume Raphael, moved to intervene in the matter by constituting an ad-hoc committee for the verification of staff/civil servants’ salaries and wage bills while begging the unions to allow it to carry out a fact-finding exercise towards resolving the problem. The committee has Esther Tiseer- Chairman, Matthew Damkor as member, Gyila Solomon- member, Manger Manger – member, Yanmar Ortese – member, Micheal Audu – member, Kennedy Angbo- member, Blessed Onah – member, Bemdoo Ipusu – member and Abraham Jabi – member.

Similarly, the court also dismissed the originating summons by the chairmen against the Benue State governor and five others challenging their suspension, on the grounds that the same reliefs sought in the suit before the court were granted by the National Industrial Court, which is a court of coordinate jurisdiction. Reacting to the development, the chairman of Kwande of Local Government Area, Orjiir Gbande, described the judgment as sound, saying it is also a victory for democracy.

The Benue State Football Association (BAFA) has said it is not ready to dabble into the leadership crisis that has engulfed the state owned NPFL club, Lobi Stars.

The association made it clear that its priority is to ensure the development of the game of football in the state at all times without interfering in the day-to-day activities of any club. 

The BAFA Chairman, Barrister Paul Edeh, in a statement, urged football stakeholders to exercise restraint, be patient and tolerant as he said the current administration led by Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia will at the right time take a decision on Lobi Stars.

Making reference to recent calls by some stakeholders for a new management to be constituted for Lobi Stars, the Chairman said “I have for the past few days, read with fascination arguments arising from the stakeholders’ meeting with His Excellency, Rev Fr. Hyacinth Alia regarding Lobi Stars. 

“I have also been inundated with calls and messages seeking to know the position of the Benue State Football Association (BSFA) on the issue.  

“The position of the BSFA is that the matter at hand is the internal affairs of Lobi Stars FC, which is an affiliate of the BSFA like every other club in the state. 

“BSFA under my watch will not interfere with the internal affairs of any of its affiliates, including Lobi Stars, especially when its opinion is not sought.

“However, we will offer guidance and advice when called upon to do so as a body responsible for administering football in the state,” he said.

Mrs. Beckie Orpin, a Benue State House of Assembly member, has called for a state of emergency in the health sector. She highlighted the issue of poor nutrition and healthcare access as impediments to children's growth in developing countries. Orpin emphasized the government's responsibility to provide the best possible health for children and called for a system of support to help them develop their full potential.

Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, the National Chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), is open to accepting Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso if he decides to defect to the party. Kwankwaso, a two-term Kano State governor, has experience in politics and has served as Minister of Defence and senator. Ganduje believes Kwankwaso's departure would make it easier for him to lobby for the party. The two political allies have not been on good terms since their first tenure.

In the Paso village market in the Gwagwalada Area Council of the FCT, a man accused of stealing a motorbike was lynched on Saturday.Israel Musa, a witness, reported that the event took place at about 9 o'clock at night when a man named Kabiru parked his motorbike and walked inside to retrieve something.According to him, "the motorcycle thief was trailing the owner of the motorcycle right from the University Abuja Teaching Hospital's gate until he arrived in Paso and parked his motorcycle to rush into his house to pick something.""The suspect was unfortunate because two neighbours watching TV in front of their homes spotted him trying to steal the bike and called the police. He got off the motorbike and ran, but people chased him down and attacked him with rocks and logs until he collapsed.

Boko Haram suspects reportedly plotting to attack the Yola, Adamawa State residence of former Vice-President  Atiku Abubakar, have been arrested. A 29-year-old suspect, Jubrila Mohammed, who confessed to being a Boko Haram member from Damboa in Borno State, was first arrested at the gate of Atiku’s residence while trying to carry out the attack at about 9 p.m. on Sunday. After his arrest, three other persons suspected to be his accomplice were also nabbed.

In a statement, the media office of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 elections narrated what transpired. “We wish to alert the Nigerian public that at about 9:44 pm on Sunday, 23 July, 2023 a man seeking to confirm the residence of His Excellency Atiku Abubakar in Yola was apprehended at the gate of the residence. The man who was apprehended by security operatives at the residence of Atiku Abubakar was later handed over to the police.

Security - Insecurity - Boko Haram 

The governor of Borno State, Babagana Zulum, has expressed concern over the use of drones by Boko-Haram militants and their superior knowledge of technological warfare compared to the government's combined military task force. He made this statement in Maiduguri when he welcomed Femi Gbajabiamila, speaker of the House of Representatives, and his entourage. They were in Borno to evaluate the situation regarding the IDPs' population and their transition from camps to resettlement. The Governor claims that the military's technological capacity needs to be reviewed because otherwise the insurgent war will never finish.

The Borno State government has rolled out a postgraduate scholarship programme for indigent students studying science courses to enhance and bridge human capital gap in the state. The Executive Secretary of the Borno State Scholarship Board, Bala Isa, told newsmen in Maiduguri at weekend that the current administration aimed to ensure that the state has adequate human capital before the commencement of oil exploitation in the state.

A six-month-old baby, Chinedu Chukwueke, who was stolen from his mother’s shop at Kure Ultra Modern Market, Minna, Niger State capital, has been found. Father of the child, Chikezie Stanley Chuks, disclosed this on Wednesday. He said the baby was dumped at a refuse dump close to Gauraka police station in Tafa Local Government Area of Niger State.

Daily Trust reports that the baby was taken from his mother’s shop by someone who tricked the mother that she wanted to learn hair dressing. “Baby have been found. He was dumped at a refuse dump close to Gauraka police station. Baby is in good health,” he announced. When contacted, the Niger State Police Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Wasiu Abiodun, confirmed that the baby was found on Wednesday at about 12:30pm.

President Buhari inaugurated three road projects in Kafanchan, Kaduna State, at a cost of N12.8 billion. He toured the roads and paid homage to the Emir of Jema'a Palace before leaving for Kaduna.

President Muhammadu Buhari has endorsed the establishment of the Nigerian Diaspora Investment Trust Fund (NDITF), a private sector investment window for Nigerians in the Diaspora to support direct investments in the country. He noted that the foreign exchange remittances by Nigerians in the Diaspora have not only helped families but enhanced the development index of Nigeria. The president described the 327-page compendium as a historical record of the worth of Nigerians globally, and noted that the names of people and the fields they have excelled speak about their resilience and how exceptional Nigerians, both at home and abroad, have become. The Diaspora Commission launched a compendium of excellent Nigerians in the Diaspora to recognise, celebrate and showcase Nigerians who are doing great things in their host countries and contributing to the socio-economic development of Nigeria. President Muhammadu Buhari reminded Nigerians of their duty to celebrate fellow Nigerians who are excelling in different paths and to continue to be of exemplary behaviour and with determination to offer quality services that contribute to the progress of humanity.

President Muhammadu Buhari has redeployed Mohammed H. Abdullahi as the substantive Minister of Environment, effective April 6, 2022. He was previously the Minister of State for Science, Technology and Innovation. Business owners cry out over the eviction and planned demolition of Ondo Trade Fair Complex. Military under fire for deploying soldiers to ‘protect’ cows in Ondo while terrorists take over Kaduna.

Executive Order 11 on National Public Building Maintenance Policy was signed by President Muhammadu Buhari. The agreement was signed at the State House in Abuja's Council Chambers prior to the start of yesterday's Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting. Speaking just before signing the document, the president instructed all ministries and departments to follow the guidelines of the new executive order. He claimed that, following FEC approval earlier, the decree gave the nation's national maintenance policy legal support. Buhari noted that the federal secretariat in Abuja and 24 other government buildings across the nation have already begun to receive a facelift thanks to the initiative.

Executive Order 11 on National Public Building Maintenance Policy was signed by President Muhammadu Buhari. The agreement was signed at the State House in Abuja's Council Chambers prior to the start of yesterday's Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting. Speaking just before signing the document, the president instructed all ministries and departments to follow the guidelines of the new executive order. He claimed that, following FEC approval earlier, the decree gave the nation's national maintenance policy legal support. Buhari noted that the federal secretariat in Abuja and 24 other government buildings across the nation have already begun to receive a facelift thanks to the initiative.

The national leadership of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has expressed sadness at the news of the tragic incidents that recently affected the Salvation Army and the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG). The President of CAN, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, in a statement on Wednesday in Abuja, said that the twin tragedy is shocking, thus the need for government to secure the lives of Nigerians.

“The loss of 12 pastors (officers), a baby, and a driver in a fatal accident on the same day, near Benin City, Edo State, is a devastating blow to the congregation, the body of Christ in Nigeria, and the nation at large. “We stand with the Salvation Army during this very difficult time in prayer, asking that God will comfort them and ease their pain. We also urge the government authorities to thoroughly investigate the accident in order to prevent a repeat of this episode.

14 days after Daily Trust reported that the naira has been devalued but the story was denied by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), the apex bank on Wednesday announced changes to the Nigerian Foreign Exchange (FX) Market. This has triggered the abolishment of all segments and collapsed into the Investors and Exporters (I&E) Window, thereby confirming what the Daily Trust reported, which it stood by since the report went public and challenged CBN to prove otherwise.

The current move has seen the naira slump to a record low of 29% to N664 per dollar at the close of business in Lagos, according to FMDQ, a local exchange operator, in what is the biggest decline since devaluation in 2016.

As part of a downward assessment of costs for electronic banking transactions in its updated guidelines on charges by Banks, Other Financial Institutions (OFIs), and Non-Bank Financial Institutions, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has decreased ATM withdrawal charges and inter-bank transfer fees.This is in accordance with the circular headed "Re: Guide To Charges By Banks, Other Financial And Non-Bank Financial Institutions" by Chibuzor Efobi, Director, Financial Policy and Regulation Department.According to the top bank, the updated guidance includes a review of other bank fees in order to keep up with market trends.

As part of a downward assessment of costs for electronic banking transactions in its updated guidelines on charges by Banks, Other Financial Institutions (OFIs), and Non-Bank Financial Institutions, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has decreased ATM withdrawal charges and inter-bank transfer fees.This is in accordance with the circular headed "Re: Guide To Charges By Banks, Other Financial And Non-Bank Financial Institutions" by Chibuzor Efobi, Director, Financial Policy and Regulation Department.According to the top bank, the updated guidance includes a review of other bank fees in order to keep up with market trends.

A commissioner with the National Population Commission (NPC), Mr Joseph Shazin Kwali, has said the postponement of the 2023 house census exercise by the immediate past administration has given the commission the opportunity to further prefect its processes and system for conduct of the first ever digital census in the country. 

According to him, the commission has carried out all the preparatory activities towards the census such as Enumeration Area Demarcation (EAD) conduct of pre -test and trial census, recruitment and training of census field staff, procurement and configuration of personal digital assistant among others.

He called on media organizations on the need to continue to sensitize the public of the significance of the house census exercise, even as he informed the commission that the FCT permanent secretary, Adesola Olusade has pledged his support to the commission anytime the exercise will commence in the FCT.

A 29-year-old chef, Moses Ibor, was on Monday sentenced to one month in prison by a Dei-Dei rea court, Abuja, for stealing three cartons of Indomie noodles. Ibor, of Apo, Abuja, had pleaded guilty to a count charge of theft and prayed for leniency.

The Judge, Saminu Suleiman, gave the convict an option of a N10,000 fine and warned him to desist from crime. Earlier, the prosecutor, Mr Chinedu Ogada, told the court that the complainant, Bashir Umar, of Olajumoke Market, Dutse Alhaji, Abuja, reported on July 10, that on the same date while he was in his shop, the defendant criminally went into the shop and stole three cartons of Indomie valued at N21,000.

The prosecutor noted that during investigation the three cartons of Indomie were recovered from the defendant, adding that the offence contravened Section 288 of the Penal Code. (NAN)

Over 250 Palestinians have been killed and injured in an ongoing Israeli raid on al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza City, according to the government media office. The Israeli army raided the facility on Monday, which houses thousands of ill and wounded patients and displaced people. The Israeli forces opened fire as they stormed the hospital, killing and injuring more than 250 civilians. The media office said several children were executed by Israeli forces at the hospital, without providing any further details. The Israeli army said that its forces had killed 50 Palestinians and detained 180 others during its raid on the hospital. At least 14,000 children are among the at least 31,810 Palestinians killed in Israeli attacks on Gaza since last October. The Palestinian health ministry in Gaza has said at least 31,819 people have been killed in the territory during more than five months of Israel's war on Gaza.

The disease has continued to ravage states, with many cases and deaths recorded in the last week. Kano records 10343 suspected cases, while Ede has contained the outbreak. A total of 65145 suspected cases were recorded within the period under review. The affected states are putting measures in place to curb the outbreak. The affected states are putting measures in place to curb the cholera outbreak. In Kano, 1665 cases were recorded and 842 people treated and discharged. Three persons died of the disease in Ede. In Bayelsa State, six persons were hospitalised after showing symptoms of cholera. The state's environmental police, public toilets or mobile toilets must be used, and some residential homes in the capital are being sealed for poor environmental conditions. The state's Commissioner for Health is also visiting communities to create awareness.

There are concerns at present in Kwara State over the latest rising trend in kidnap activities. While top security brass, who visited recently, described the state as one of the most peaceful in the country, the menace of kidnapping for ransom has continued to threaten that slogan. Daily Trust reports that there has been a spike in the frequency of abductions by gunmen lately which has led to the death of several persons and payment of several millions of naira in ransom.

However, it appears the perpetrators are becoming more daring if the incident that occurred about two weeks ago at Okanle, near Idofian, Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, is anything to go by.

In order to avoid hiring someone who is unqualified for the position, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has been urged to step in during the nomination of a substantive Director General of the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP).The importance of the agency, according to the Contractors Association of Nigeria, made it necessary to ensure that the proper individual is appointed.An engineer with extensive knowledge of contract and procurement fundamentals has always served as the BPP's executive director. It should come as no surprise that a group that claimed to have the support of the presidency is projecting a director general for BPP who is not an engineer but a business administration graduate.

President Bola Tinubu has directed the Muslim Ulamas delegation in the Niger Republic crisis to return to the junta for a tentative commitment. The delegation, led by Ustaz Abdullahi Bala-Lau, aims to avoid force and restore constitutional order. The Ulamas will continue dialogue and understand that war is the last option. The meeting with the Ulamas demonstrates ECOWAS openness to dialogue, with military action being the last option.

The Presidential Election Petitions Court has admitted the US drugs forfeiture judgment documents against President Bola Tinubu tendered by the Labour Party and its candidate, The presiding chairman of the court, and the Allied Peoples Movement challenging Tinubu’s victory in the election. To whom the documents were tendered, testified that the documents of the District Court of Illinois, signed a certificate of clearance for Tinubu over the forfeiture, he answered in the negative. The number of registered voters, and data of PVCs collected..

The Federal High Court in Kano has been asked to restrain the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) from probing the immediate past governor of Kano state, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, over video clips allegedly showing him receiving dollars from a contractor as kickbacks.In court documents sighted by Daily Trust on Wednesday, the former Attorney General of Kano State in the originating summons filed against the EFCC as the sole defendant asked the court to declare that based on the supremacy of the Constitution, the anti-corruption agency does not have the right to investigate a case already pending before the state House of Assembly.

Daily Trust observed that the suit was filed before the court on March 23, few days after the gubernatorial elections in which the opposition party came out on top. It was further observed that the court papers was only delivered to the EFCC on June 5. While the new Kano state governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, was yet to make any declaration as regards the video clips since assuming office, a civil society organization, War Against Injustice, has asked the EFCC to investigate and prosecute Ganduje since he no longer enjoys immunity.

The federal government must abide by the 35 percent affirmative action, according to an Abuja Federal High Court judgement. After rejecting the preliminary objection yesterday that contested the plaintiffs' locus, Justice Donatus Okorowo ruled that the National Gender Policy was intended to be implemented for gender balance. Funmi Falana filed the lawsuit on behalf of a number of organisations, including the Women Advocates Research and Documentation Centre, the Vision Spring Initiative, the Women in Politics Forum, the Incorporated Trustees of the Nigerian Women Trust Fund, Women Empowerment Legal Aid, and the Centre for Democracy and Development West Africa.  

The National Industrial Court has upheld the no work no pay rule by the Federal Government in the suit filed against the Academic Staff Union of Universities. In a judgement delivered by the President of the Court, ASUU on February 14 embarked on strike, which lasted eight months, revamping of the nation’s education sector among others..

The midnight to four in the morning movement restrictions put in place in 2019 to slow the spread of COVID 19 in the nation were officially withdrawn yesterday by the federal government. In a statement, Boss Mustapha, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) and Chairman of the Presidential Steering Committee on COVID-29, made the announcement. He said that the decision was made in response to a lower danger of the introduction of novel variations, a decrease in pandemic cases, the availability of vaccines, and an increase in the number of people in Nigeria and around the world who have received vaccinations. However, the SGF emphasised that any political events involving sizable crowds must rigorously abide with COVID 19 regulations established by the Independent National and Electoral Commission (INEC). While there are no restrictions on flying, he continued, people must follow any current laws.

The midnight to four in the morning movement restrictions put in place in 2019 to slow the spread of COVID 19 in the nation were officially withdrawn yesterday by the federal government. In a statement, Boss Mustapha, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) and Chairman of the Presidential Steering Committee on COVID-29, made the announcement. He said that the decision was made in response to a lower danger of the introduction of novel variations, a decrease in pandemic cases, the availability of vaccines, and an increase in the number of people in Nigeria and around the world who have received vaccinations. However, the SGF emphasised that any political events involving sizable crowds must rigorously abide with COVID 19 regulations established by the Independent National and Electoral Commission (INEC). While there are no restrictions on flying, he continued, people must follow any current laws.

Crisis has hit the Kebbi State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) following the emergence of a factional leadership under a former Chairman of the party, Bala Sani Kangiwa. A top shot of the party and member of the new faction, Abdulllahi Mohammed Lamba, said the division became necessary following impunity in the conduct of the last state congress. His faction enjoys the support of senators Adamu Aliero and Yahaya Abdullahi of Kebbi Central and North senatorial districts, and is in control of all the 21 local government offices of the party. A federal lawmaker from the state has described the emergence of the faction as part of moves by Aliero's camp to seek attention after losing its structure during the just concluded party congress. Patrick Obahiagbon, a former member of the House of Representatives and Chieftain of the APC, has appealed to President Muhammadu Buhari and the top echelon of the party to propound a pathway ahead of the 2023 general elections.

He also advised party members not to allow their personal and selfish interests to override the interest of the party. However, efforts to speak to the State Chairman of APC, Abubakar Kana Zuru, proved abortive as he did not pick calls to his number or reply to a text message sent to him. However, a source at the APC national secretariat said the Buni-led national caretaker committee would move in fast to address the issue.

Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla condemned the growing threat of cyber-attacks on military establishments during the Nigerian Navy's Third Inter-Command Communication and Cyberdrills Competition 2023. He emphasized the importance of training and emphasized the event's role in strengthening the Navy's strength and resilience.

International business mogul, Alhaji Aminu Dantata has advocated parliamentary system of government saying it is not too late to set Nigeria working again as all indicators are showing that the country isn’t what it is used to be . Dantata said this whole addressing the Northern elders Forum(NEF) during a condolence visit on the death of Sani Dangote and Bashir Tofa among other prominent kano sons that died recently.” You will agree with me that the presidential system of government presently in operation has failed the nation, what we need now is to adopt the parliamentary system which is less expensive he said.

Nigeria experienced its first national blackout this year after a grid collapse at 11:21 a.m., causing all 20 power plants, except Ibom Power, to be offline by 11:51 a.m. Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) confirmed the incident, stating that the power outage was due to a system failure from the national grid. The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) stated that the grid experienced a partial disturbance due to gas constraints at its Ibom power station, feeding Eket, Ekim, Itu & Uyo transmission substations. Low power generation has persisted in the country since January 2024, exacerbating daily generation due to the lingering gas constraint. The outage made it the 150th time the country has recorded a grid collapse since 2013. Reasons for the collapses vary, but include outdated infrastructure, vegetation growing along grid lines, vandalism of the grid, and a shortage of gas.

Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State has warned local government chairmen in the state against multiple taxations in order to reduce the burden of fuel subsidy removal on the people. The governor gave the warning on Wednesday when the state chapter of Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) paid him a courtesy visit at Government House, Asaba.

Despite the prevailing forex restriction for import goods by the Central Bank of Nigeria(CBN), textile is now the highest imported commodity according to the latest statistics from the National Bureau of Statistics(NBS). The value of imports in 2020, according to NBS, was 19.89tn, having grown by 17.32 percent year-on-year from 2019 to 2020 as imports stood at N16.96tn in 2019. 

NURTW members continue to operate at motor parks and garages in Lagos State despite the suspension of its activities by the state government. Checks at various parks revealed that touts, known as agbero, have continued to extort drivers of commercial vehicles. Armed hoodlums have taken over the Orile-Mile 2- Badagry and the Mile 2- Apapa expressways, demanding money from truck and commercial bus drivers and commercial motorcycle riders. Drivers are at no one's mercy as security operatives look the other way.

Five students have died of suspected diphtheria in the Jamaare Local Government Area of the Bauchi State The Executive Chairman of Bauchi State Primary Healthcare Development Agency,(BSPHCDA), Dr Rilwanu Mohammed, who disclosed this to newsmen on Wednesday in Bauchi said out of 28 samples taken from Jammare, two were confirmed, adding that the agency was determined to act fast to curtail a possible spread of the disease.

Mohammed described the deaths of the students as unfortunate saying laboratory tests would confirm if they died of Diphtheria. Mohammed said vaccination would be given to prevent the disease, “We need to vaccinate children at six weeks and the good news is that the vaccination is free.” He further disclosed that all schools in the affected local government area had been closed as a precautionary measure to curtail any possible spread of the disease.

The Governor of Bayelsa State on Tuesday led a high-powered delegation of Federal lawmakers from the state, party leaders and others to felicitate with former Governor Henry Seriake Dickson after his swearing-in as a second term Senator. Diri who described Dickson as their political leader and father said that it was important to ensure that emphasis is placed on experience in the choice of candidates for the National Assembly. The sad incidents affected the arrangement to celebrate the inauguration of the lawmakers in recognition of the mourning mood of the Ijaw nation.

The new federal lawmakers are H.E Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, Senator Konbowei Benson, Senator Benson Agadaga, Hon. Fred Agbedi, Hon.(Mrs.) Marie Ebikake, Hon. Mitema Obodor, Hon. Oboku Oforji, and Hon. Rodney Ambaiowei.

Former governor of Gombe State, Mohammed Danjuma Goje, has filed an appeal against the judgement affirming his dismissal from the All Progressives Congress (APC). The Senator representing Gombe  Central Senatorial District also filed a stay of execution at the Court of Appeal in Abuja. A Federal High Court in Abuja presided by Justice Obiora Egwuatu had on June 27 dismissed the suit filed by Goje challenging his dismissal from the APC for lacking in merit. 

In an appeal dated July 4 and filed through his counsel, Paul Erokoro (SAN), Goje submitted that the trial judge’s reliance on the technicality that the deponent was a practicing lawyer in the law firm representing Goje although he was not involved in the suit, was not substantial justice.

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has attributed the naira's crash against the dollar to the diversion of diaspora remittances to unofficial markets. The acting governor, Folashodun Shonubi, emphasized the need for Nigeria to control illegal remittances and identify channels to ensure proper flows and economic growth. The CBN boss emphasized the importance of full information and transparency in managing the foreign exchange market.

The Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) has called on the federal government to reconsider its 'No Work, No Pay' policy against NARD members. NMA Chairman Dr. Charles Ugwuanyi urged the government to critically examine the policy, as it could lead to further complications and halt the system. The medical registry in Nigeria currently has over 100,000 registrable doctors, but as of April 2022, only 36,000 renewed their licenses, and less than 25,000 doctors are registered and practicing in the country.

Terrorists killed dozens and displaced hundreds in four states over the weekend, including Niger and Kuchi. Residents of the affected communities reported that attackers rode on motorcycles and operated unchallenged before attacking residents. DSP Wasiu Abiodun kept sealed lips, but State Commissioner for Local Government Emmanuel Umar confirmed the attack. Security operations are ongoing and people are still on the run. The four camps of Abdulkarim and Dankarami were attacked by more than 1500 bandits, looting everything and setting places on fire. The attack occurred in the early hours of Sunday, with eleven people confirmed killed and some inflicted with gunshot injuries. Vice President Prof. Yemi Osinbajo has ordered that bandits should be classified as terrorists.

The Nigeria Customs Service, Kebbi Command has seized 138 packs of tramakings/tramadol worth N22m at Kamba- border in Kebbi State. Other drugs seized include 81 table size cannabis Sativa and a Toyota Camry conveying the drugs. Briefing journalists at the NCS  headquarters in Birnin Kebbi, the Comptroller of Customs, Dr Ben Oramalugo said officers of the command also seized 46 bags of foreign parboiled rice of 50kg, 40 bags of 25kg, 88 bales of second hand clothes and 4,200 litres of PMS and 525 litres of diesel. While handing the seized drugs to the state NDLEA Commander, Usman Suleiman said his command was able to intercept the items as a result of the sustained synergy with relevant units and other security agencies at border stations in the state. He said though the coup d’etat in neighbouring Niger Republic and subsequent border closure has sharply affected their revenue generation drive but the command still manages to rake in ninety-nine million, two hundred and eighty two thousand and forty seven naira (N99,282,547) in the month of July. He said the duty paid value of the seized items is N51,499,314.

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and Niger's military junta are set to begin talks this week, with a date set after Nigeria's Islamic scholars brief President Bola Tinubu. ECOWAS welcomed Niger's military rulers' readiness for dialogue, and General Abdourahmane Tchiani expressed readiness for dialogue. President Tinubu is keen to see progress and ECOWAS leaders are committed to a peaceful end to the issue. Niger's military leaders have disclosed the reason they ignored a delegation led by former Nigeria's Head of State, General Abdulsalam Abubakar, in an attempt to restore the toppled government. Both parties had fruitful discussions. The Nigeria Labour Congress cautions ECOWAS against military action, while Ajaero calls for ECOWAS to listen to Nigerians and stakeholders across continents and not wage war against the junta.

The All Progressives Congress has chosen Biodun Abayomi as their candidate for governor in the upcoming election for the position of governor of Ekiti State. Abayomi gathered a total of... It's loading the AI Video Player. Having received the most votes overall, the Hon. was announced as the APC's candidate for the governorship race. 183560 APC members were enrolled in the state, according to Governor Badaru, 107877 voters were recognised, and 104 983 votes were counted. Five wards, three wards, and the destruction of an automobile were the affected locations.

The two houses of the parliament yesterday passed different versions of the Electoral Act Bill; the Senate supplied the re-amended bill for direct mode, whilst the House only gave direct and indirect mode. This has sparked a new debate in the National Assembly. The National Assembly already enacted the measure on November 18; the Commission will keep an eye on it. The Red Chamber changed Clause 84 (which refers to the ways of choosing candidates for elective seats as indirect primaries or consensus). There wasn't any agreement. After the House returned to plenary, Femi Gbajabiamila addressed the amendment and stated that only Clause 84 had been discussed and approved by the House. No other provisions of the electoral act modification had been taken into consideration or approved.

The two houses of the parliament yesterday passed different versions of the Electoral Act Bill; the Senate supplied the re-amended bill for direct mode, whilst the House only gave direct and indirect mode. This has sparked a new debate in the National Assembly. The National Assembly already enacted the measure on November 18; the Commission will keep an eye on it. The Red Chamber changed Clause 84 (which refers to the ways of choosing candidates for elective seats as indirect primaries or consensus). There wasn't any agreement. After the House returned to plenary, Femi Gbajabiamila addressed the amendment and stated that only Clause 84 had been discussed and approved by the House. No other provisions of the electoral act modification had been taken into consideration or approved.

Today at CBN headquarters in Abuja, Mr. Godwin Emefiele, governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, will officially launch the 100 for 100 Policy on Production and Productivity (PPP). The private firm would be chosen once the apex bank has determined that it can significantly affect the economy through the performance metrics.

The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) in Enugu State has praised Governor Peter Mbah for extending the minimum wage to primary school teachers after years of waiting. NUT chairman Theophilus Nweke stated that Mbah was ready to pay wage awards and resolve the three-year minimum wage dispute with the past administration. NUT has praised Mbah's commitment to teachers' welfare and has implemented four of its five-point demands.

On Wednesday, retired military personnel marched through Abuja under the banner of the Coalition for Concerned Veterans to demand payment of the pension arrears that resulted from the introduction of the new minimum wage. which picketed the Ministry of Finance and said that even though they had written to the Minister of Defence, we had given them the reins and that their compensation was excessive under government policy.

Former commissioners of Kaduna State who served under the immediate past Governor Nasir El-Rufai have reached out to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, urging him not to backtrack on his commitment to appoint El-Rufai as a minister in his cabinet. The former commissioners, who convened in Kaduna on Tuesday under the banner of the Like Minds Forum of Nigeria, emphasised on El-Rufai’s enduring status as a strong ally of President Tinubu. They noted that even individuals who were considered adversaries of the former governor acknowledged this camaraderie According to them, El-Rufai played a pivotal role in ensuring the power shift to the southern region and the emergence of President Tinubu, defying all odds. The Forum said: “The allegations against El-Rufai amount to nothing more than the desperation of certain factions seeking retribution against him and attempting to tarnish and undermine President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. They explained that the people of Kaduna State, Northern Nigeria, and the entire nation, are deeply disappointed by the Senate’s failure to confirm Malam Nasir El-Rufai as a minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Olawepo-Hashim, a past contender for president and a significant player in Nigeria's energy business, has praised the appointment of Hon. Zephaniah Bitrus Jisalo, a native of the FCT, as minister.He characterised the selection as proof of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's dedication to national cohesion.People from the grassroots have been flocking to congratulate the honourable gentleman because they realise how significant this is just to those who are from Abuja or the North Central.Jisalo, who previously represented the Abuja Municipal/Bwari Federal Constituency, is the first native person to be appointed minister since 1999.

The group picketed the Ministry of Finance to protest the payment of debarment allowance to only servicemen that retired from 2017, reduction of their health allowance and NHIS not catering for surgeries. Leader of the group, Abiodun Durowaiye-Herberts, said despite writing to the Minister of Defense, they have not received any response from the government. The Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning, Zainab Ahmed Shamsuna, said the issue of pension arrears has been addressed in the 2022 budget and 24 months arrears would be paid in due course.

Families in Nigeria are passing through difficult times as the cost of staple food is increasingly becoming unbearable, Daily Trust reports. Findings at various markets across the country show that prices of rice, beans, garri, flour and sugar, among others, are rising almost on a weekly basis. While breadwinners are seeking government’s help; traders are lamenting that the inflation rate is fast eroding their capital base. The latest inflation figure was 24.08 per cent in July 2023, the highest since September 2005. A March report by the Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO) showed that nearly 25 million Nigerians were at risk of hunger between June and August unless urgent actions are taken. FAO identified continued conflict, climate change, inflation and rising food prices as key drivers of the trend. It said, “Of the 17 million people who are currently food insecure, 3 million are in the north-east Borno, Adamawa and Yobe states. “Without immediate action, this figure is expected to increase to 4.4 million in the lean season. This includes highly vulnerable displaced populations and returnees who are already struggling to survive a large-scale humanitarian crisis in which 8.3 million people need assistance.”  Available records showed that by mid-February to the end of July, prices of maize, beans and rice from three-grain markets of Dawanau, Dandume and Kumo in Kano, Katsina and Gombe states as well as Abuja had on average doubled, especially maize; while beans and rice added N10,000 and N20,000 respectively. 

Farmers in Wushishi and Lavun LGAs have fled their homes since Friday night due to bandits' movements. The Niger State Vigilante Corps Chairman, Ibrahim Iko-Iko, confirmed that the bandits have been in the area since Friday and have moved close to Lavun LGA. The military has been deployed to trace the bandits, who residents claim are still in their villages. The situation is being assessed to enable the state government to respond to the needs of internallydisplaced persons in Wushishi and other parts of the local government.

The current council chairman, Alhaji Adamu Mustapha, has been suspended by the All Progressives Congress (APC) branch of the Gwagwalada Area Council due to anti-party actions. According to City News, there has been a cold war between the FCT's party leadership and the council's current chairman. The suspension of the Gwagwalada chairman was announced in a letter to the local government council, FCTA, the North Central chapter of the party, as well as the party's national secretary. The letter was signed by the Dobi Ward APC Chairman, Jibrin Gado, and Secretary, Aliyu Jibrin.

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) residents have praised the FCT Administration's efforts to rid the city of "one chance" robbers. They commended the raid on one chance operators, illegal motor parks, and motorists engaging in illegal parking. The initiative aims to address the menace of once chance operators and encourage residents to board taxis at designated motor parks.

The Federal Capital Territory Internal Revenue Service has started a campaign to foster a culture of tax compliance among residents and businesses in the FCT. The FCT-IRS acting chairman, who oversaw a road show yesterday to launch the campaign, said that the drive to raise awareness of better taxation will be stepped up and issued a warning that the agency would use existing laws to punish defaulters.

A female soldier in Yola, Nigeria, accidentally killed a senior colleague at a checkpoint during a curfew imposed by the Adamawa government. The soldier had cocked her rifle and fired, killing the colleague. The commander instructed journalists to seek an appointment in writing before speaking to them.

The federal government has approved new guidelines for the administration of expatriate quota in Nigeria, including renewal of expatriate quota positions and mandatory submission of Monthly Returns on the Utilization of all approved Expatriate Quota Positions. Inspection to commence, with fees for organisations and public places of worship.

The Federal Government has announced that no private jetty should operate in Nigeria without authorization from relevant government agencies, in a bid to shore up its revenue base and block leakages. This is the first time the activities and data resulting from the work of the Presidential Standing Committee on Private Jetties (PSCPJ) will be compiled since its inauguration 17 years ago. This compilation encapsulates the standard operational procedure/guidelines for intending and existing jetty operators in the country. The Pipelines and Product Marketing Company Limited (PPMC) has announced that it will investigate the berth constraints of LPG vessels in Lagos jetties. PPMC's Managing Director, Alhaji Ahmed Farouk, stated this during the commissioning of the Nigerian Association of Liquefied Petroleum Gas Marketers (NALPGAM) building and Resource Center.

The Federal Government has announced that no private jetty should operate in Nigeria without authorization from relevant government agencies, in a bid to shore up its revenue base and block leakages. This is the first time the activities and data resulting from the work of the Presidential Standing Committee on Private Jetties (PSCPJ) will be compiled since its inauguration 17 years ago. This compilation encapsulates the standard operational procedure/guidelines for intending and existing jetty operators in the country. The Pipelines and Product Marketing Company Limited (PPMC) has announced that it will investigate the berth constraints of LPG vessels in Lagos jetties. PPMC's Managing Director, Alhaji Ahmed Farouk, stated this during the commissioning of the Nigerian Association of Liquefied Petroleum Gas Marketers (NALPGAM) building and Resource Center.

The Canadian government has pledged to strengthen its relationship with Nigeria, citing mutual economic benefits in agricultural development. The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) assured the Canadian government that the current economic situation in Nigeria will be temporary due to the government's policies designed to cushion the situation and provide relief to the citizens. In 2022, Nigeria was Canada's largest bilateral trade partner in Africa, with Canadian imports totaling about $1.7bn. The SGF also recalled that in 2022, 95% of people with Boko Haram's ideology were dead in Borno.

The federal government is planning to pay transport workers while finalizing a decision on the N5000 monthly payment to the poor as the monthly subsidy on Premium Motor Spirit or petrol ends by June. Zainab Ahmed Shamsuna,One other proposal that has been made, get them registered and pass a subsidy through them using vouchers. There are several options that we are currently working on, Zainab revealed. She said that kerosene and diesel prices have been deregulated except petrol. The government would not cut its recurrent budget. Two weeks after the National Assembly passed the bill. Remember we have a revenue challenge and everything that we do, we can’t put an exit package..

The federal government's MSMEs Survival Fund Scheme's Head of Project Delivery Office has stated that the government is not distributing 80000... allegedly stated that the government is not distributing the $80,000 survival money. in a statement that the office released. "The public is hereby informed that requests for account information being distributed via social media and SMS in order to participate in the Survival Fund Scheme is a scam, so members of the public should disregard such requests," Johnson stated. He said that the federal government's Survival Fund steering committee, which is led by Minister of State for Industry, Trade, and Investment Amb. Maryam Y. Katagum, has contacted the appropriate law enforcement authorities to find and prosecute all those responsible for the fraud.

The Nigerian government paid N36bn to subsidise electricity consumption in the first quarter of 2023, with N12bn paid to the Nigerian Bulk Electricity Trading (NBET). The government intervened due to the absence of cost-reflective tariffs, covering the gap with tariff shortfall funding. DisCos reported most frequently reported issues, including metering, billing, and service interruption, accounting for over 79% of total complaints.

The federal government has disclosed that it may inject some foreign exchange into the economy to shore up the value of the naira while market forces stabilise. The Special Adviser to the President on Special Duties, Communication and Strategy, Mr Dele Alake stated this on Wednesday while speaking with reporters in Paris.

Although the presidential spokesman was not specific about the nature of the dollar injection, he said: “Don’t forget that Mr. President has taken some very bold steps in the area of economy, in the area of social engineering in the last few weeks, and particularly with reference to the unification of the multiple exchange rates, which has caused very positive multiplier effect.

However, in the short term, we have noticed and expected that there will be a slight spike in the demand and then that would affect the value of the naira viz-viz the dollar.  So, apart from the immediate, short and long term positive effects of that unification policy, there could be a need for an injection of direct foreign exchange into the economy to shore up the value of the naira while market forces stabilise. And in the short run or medium term, there is going to be when the effects of this policy begin to mature.

The allegation against the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra has been modified by the federal government, increasing the counts from seven to fifteen ahead... Kanu was charged with treason and terrorism on seven counts. According to The Nation, Buhari Yakasai has added 10 charges to the original accusation.The allegation against the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra has been modified by the federal government, increasing the counts from seven to fifteen ahead... Kanu was charged with treason and terrorism on seven counts. According to The Nation, Buhari Yakasai has added 10 charges to the original accusation. The 15 useless and empty revised charges that they did not feel the need to change are not what has me upset.

Nigeria's Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, has revealed that the federal government is exploring strategies to boost agricultural production to combat rising food and commodity prices. The minister made the announcement during a bilateral meeting with a visiting German delegation, led by Germany's Minister of Economic Cooperation and Development, Ms. Svenja Shulze. Edun emphasised the importance of increasing agricultural production to address the rising cost of food items. The president has intervened in the sector to provide grain, fertilizers, and additional acreage for rice, wheat, maize, and cassava to increase output and reduce prices, ultimately reducing inflation. The trade minister also noted that the partnership with Germany aims to develop Nigeria's small and medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) subsector with a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to improve access to finance for women-owned enterprises.

The west African civil society forum (WACSOF)has said it is high time the nigerian government declare an emergence in the education sector and called on stakeholders for frank dialogue on the state of education in the country.The forum said that government should stop the disruptions to the education sector,increase budgetary allocation to the sector and return Nigerian children and young adults back to school.

Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State has approved a monthly subsidy allowance of N10,000 for government workers and pensioners in the state as part of efforts to mitigate the impact of fuel subsidy removal. The subsidy will be granted for six months.

The Chief of Staff to the governor, who is also the Chairman of the Special Committee on Mitigating the Effect of Fuel Subsidy Removal, Dr Edgar Amos, disclosed this to newsmen on Wednesday in Government House Yola. He revealed that the governor had also approved the full implementation of the national minimum wage for local government workers, effective from next month’s salary.

The Federal Inland Revenue Service has said it generated N6.405 trillion in 2021 despite the economic downturn experienced in the globe due to the coronavirus pandemic. Companies Income Tax amounted to N1.896tr; Petroleum Profits Tax amounted to N2tr; Value Added Tax amounted to N2.07tr; Electronic Money Transfer Levy amounted to N114 billion; Earmarked Taxes amounted to N208. “The Service issued certificates for the sum of N147. Nami explained that in line with the law, the country entered into a second economic recession within five years..

Victims of last year’s flood in Bayelsa State and other residents of the state have called on the state government to promptly clear the drainages and canals around Yenagoa, the state capital to avert the devastating effects of the anticipated flood this year. The Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NIMET) had predicted that the heavy rainfall that will reach its peak between July and September, 2024 will cause flooding higher than last year’s own.

Disturbed by the prediction and suffering of last year’s flood, some residents around the cemetery road, Azikoro village in Yenagoa, told members of the Federated Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) who went round to see the level of government’s preparedness ahead of the anticipated flood that they needed the relevant government agencies to clean up the canals that empty water into the area from the cemetery area of the state.

Football coach Bankole Oginni, also known as 'honourable Kole,' allegedly murdered his estranged lover in his living room. The victim, who was tied with rope, had burns on her body, possibly caused by hot water. The suspect was caught when the victim's mobile line was disconnected. The lifeless body was found with her legs and hands tied, and her remains were deposited at the hospital's morgue.

The Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission (PCACC) says forensic analysis has confirmed that the dollar videos of ex-Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje were not doctored. In 2017, Daily Nigerian, an online publication, had released some videos of Ganduje allegedly collecting kickbacks from contractors. But speaking at ‘A One Day Public Dialogue on Anti-Corruption Crusade in Kano’, on Wednesday, Barrister Muhuyi Magaji Rimingado, Chairman of the agency, said the authenticity of the videos had been confirmed.

He said since the release of the footages, people have been challenging the commission under him to prove the innocence or otherwise of the former governor in the matter. He added that his commission commenced investigation in 2018 but could not go far because Ganduje, who was governor at the time, had immunity.

The biting scarcity of dollars may force some airlines to shut down operation any time from now, Daily Trust can report. Though the scarcity has always crippled airline operations, it got worse recently with many airlines finding it extremely difficult to continue operations as they are unable to source for dollars to pay for aircraft maintenance.

No fewer than 10 aircraft belonging to local operators are in different maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) facilities abroad as they are unable to source for dollars to pay for the cost of maintenance. Daily Trust reports that an average C-check costs $1m (about N750m at N750/$) and it could be more depending on the extent of the check to be carried out on an aircraft.

 A new COVID-19 variant discovered in 12 patients near Marseille, contains 46 mutations, making it more resistant to vaccines and infectious. It is yet to be spotted in other countries or labelled a variant under investigation by the World Health Organization. Omicron is the dominant coronavirus variant in France, leading to surging case numbers. To combat this, French MPs have proposed legislation that would require most people to be vaccinated against Covid-19 to enter public spaces such as bars, restaurants and long-distance public transport. The bill aims to replace the health pass with a vaccine pass, which would only allow people who are fully vaccinated to gain access to those venues.

As the National Assembly reconvenes after Christmas, more dust is accumulating around the Electoral Act Amendment Bill that President Muhammadu Buhari rejected due to direct primaries. As the National Assembly reconvenes after its break for Christmas and New Year, new controversy is arising over the Electoral Act Amendment Bill that President Muhammadu Buhari rejected over direct primaries. In a letter to the National Assembly titled "Withholding assent to Electoral Act Bill 2021," Buhari listed the options to include; stakeholders in the nation's political scene, including governors and civil society groups, have suggested ways out of the dilemma. In a statement following their meeting in Port Harcourt, their chairman and the governor of Sokoto State, A quickly completed electoral act is crucial.

Despicably in a manner similar to many Nigerians paid by the public purse and given a uniform to wear to discharge of their duties, errant staff of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) do not regard their uniform as a call to public service, but rather as license to trample citizens’ rights, and behave as they please! In fairness to the corps, they recognise the problem and have dismissed many employees for corruption, and other actions detrimental to the reputation of the FRSC.   

Back in 2015, Deputy Corps Marshal Charles Theophilus publicly warned staff against corrupt practices, claiming that “measures have been put in place to stop anything that has to do with corruption within the system”. Yet two years later in 2017, 25 staff were sacked for corrupt practices. The then Corps Marshal, Boboye Oyeyemi, said a “massive self-cleansing exercise was in action to rid the corps of corrupt officials”.

Two years down the line in 2019, 62 staff comprising 14 officers and 48 marshals were dismissed after internal investigations, while separate investigations by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and the Department of State Services (DSS) led to disciplinary action against 172 two others! Again in 2020, 18 officers were dismissed for misconduct, and 10 were “sanctioned for indiscipline” and demoted. The Corps Public Education Officer (CPEO), Bisi Kazeem, said those affected had been involved in forgery, number plate and license racketeering, bribery and scandalous patrol misconduct.  Regrettably, this has become the public perception of FRSC staff priorities. The corps’ once stellar reputation has been rubbished to the extent that they are now widely regarded as a nuisance on the road, rather than as a beneficial public service.

According to a Daily Trust poll, the current Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) scarcity has subsided in and around the FCT.Due to the closure of several filling stations last week, which created an artificial shortage and lengthy lines of cars at the stations, it was not the best week for automobile owners in the FCT.Few filling stations were spotted pouring the stuff last week in and around the FCT, each with one or two pumping machines and lengthy lines.Experts blamed panic purchasing and stockpiling in anticipation of the elimination of subsidies, which the federal government eventually halted, for the gasoline shortage.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ended the fuel subsidy due to resource drying, urging better investment in public infrastructure, education, healthcare, and jobs. He also called for a unified exchange rate to direct funds towards real economy investments. His administration will treat both new and old naira notes as legal tender, reduce interest rates, and target higher GDP growth and reduced unemployment. They will review investor complaints and ensure dividends are repatriated home. Tinubu pledges to work with international partners to end conflicts and make Nigeria a more perfect nation and democracy.

The House of Representatives has called on the federal government to implement its promise on putting in place palliative measures to cushion the effects of fuel subsidy removal on Nigerians. The call followed the adoption of a motion by Aliyu Sani Madaki (NNPP, Kano) at the plenary on Wednesday. 

Presenting the motion, the lawmaker recalled that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had on May 29 announced the removal of fuel subsidy which pushed the pump prices from N194 to over N500 with variations in states. He said there was the need to put in place measures to protect the rights of citizens and prioritise the provision of palliatives to mitigate the challenges that have arisen from the fuel subsidy removal and ensure a more sustainable and inclusive economic framework for the benefit of Nigerians.

Tajudeen Abbas, the Speaker of the House, read Gbajabiamila’s letter of resignation at plenary in Abuja on Wednesday, June 14. Gbajabiamila said his resignation is to enable him to assume the role of Chief of Staff to President Bola Tinubu.

The Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN) on Wednesday asked the federal government to go after the "big fish in the ocean" in order to widen the tax net and deepen compliance. President and Chairman of Council of the Institute, Adesina Adedayo also declared that the institute has opened up a platform of engagement with the government to shore up the revenue generation. The 40th anniversary of the institute is a platform to showcase the achievements of the institute. Nigerians can now earn US Dollars by acquiring premium domain names, most clients earning about $7,000 to $10,000. Daily Finance is sponsoring a millionaire man who reveals a $127/hour trick anyone can do to get rich with Bitcoin, without buying it.

Muhammad Danjuma Goje, senator for Gombe Central Senatorial District, recently gave his citizens in Gombe State 500 tricycles (Keke NAPEP) and 1,000 motorcycles. Goje said the donation was born out of his ambition for community empowerment to support youths and women in his constituency while speaking during the flag-off of the distribution at his Gombe mansion. He added that the act was a part of his attempts to combat poverty and provide his supporters the power to open up work prospects for young people in the neighbourhood. According to our correspondent, residents of the constituency in the local government areas of Akko and Yamaltu/Deba in the state received the goods, which cost more than N920 million, free of charge.

A Bauchi-Gombe federal highway bridge collapsed after a downpour, marking the eighth time in recent years that a bridge or part of the road is washed away. Traffic has been diverted to Bauchi-Darazo-Dukku-Gombe road, prolonging the journey from Bauchi to Gombe by over 78 kilometers.

A Bauchi-Gombe federal highway bridge collapsed after a downpour, marking the eighth time in recent years that a bridge or part of the road is washed away. Traffic has been diverted to Bauchi-Darazo-Dukku-Gombe road, prolonging the journey from Bauchi to Gombe by over 78 kilometers.

The Caretaker/Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has reconciled the Gombe State Governor, Inuwa Yahaya and a former governor of the state, Senator Danjuma Goje. The meeting was attended by former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara, senators and former governors of Borno State, Senator Kashim Shettima and Sullivan Chime of Enugu State, among others. The reconciliation has further stamped the authority of the party in the state, and the party will continue to explore ways of resolving differences among stakeholders amicably ahead of the 2023 general elections.

Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf has reinstated the suspended Chairman of the state’s Public Complaints and Anti Corruption Commission (PCACC), Muhuyi Magaji.

Recall that Magaji was suspended by the immediate past governor, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje on the recommendation of the state House of Assembly, which said it investigated and uncovered several anomalies against him. Daily Trust reports that Muhuyi, a very influential official during the administration of the former governor had fallen out with Ganduje administration last year after the anti-graft boss said his commission was investigating some major projects of the government and that its investigation had revealed that the then First Family had alleged undue involvement in the projects.

Among the cases that shut the anti-graft boss into the limelight was the investigation of the Kano Emirate Council that subsequently contributed to the removal of then Emir of Kano, Sanusi Muhammadu.

Engr Udengs Eradiri, the Labour Party governorship candidate in Bayelsa State, urges youths to rise up against the old order and save the state. He believes coastal communities and ocean cities like Odioma hold the key to unlocking resource potential and a new Bayelsa. Eradiri plans to employ teachers, train them, and pay their arrears. He aims to revive Bayelsa's economy with agriculture and self-sufficiency in food production when elected.

There was tension in Kano on Monday as protesters defied a police ban as they marched to the Government House calling on the judiciary to ensure justice in the election petition filed before the tribunal.The State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal has reserved judgment in the petition filed by the All Progressives Congress (APC) to challenge the victory of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP).The tribunal’s decision came amidst protests in the state metropolis convened by the Kano State Civil Society Situation Room and supporters of the NNPP calling on the judiciary to ensure justice is done following allegations of attempted bribery of members of a panel hearing petitions in the National and State Assembly Election Petition tribunals.Daily Trust reports the protest was carried out despite the announcement of a ban on street protests by the police early on Monday after news filtered in that supporters of both APC and NNPP were planning to organise counter-protests.“Both organisers as well as the umbrella body should note that any attempt to disrespect NLC and the security agencies in the state, by playing around the fragile security situation, which the combined security agencies have been managing, is not only uncivil, criminal but also an offence against national security.”When Daily Trust contacted the police spokesman, SP Haruna Kiyawa, he promised to make inquiries and revert. He had not done that and was not responding to calls as of the time of filing this report.

Yet-to-be-identified gunmen have abducted seven students of the University of Jos. DSP Alfred Alabo, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) of the Police Command in Plateau State, confirmed the incident to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Jos.

According to Alabo, the students were abducted on Monday night at their hostel located outside the campus. He explained that the students were whisked away while reading for their second-semester examinations that commenced on Tuesday.

”The Commissioner of Police in the state, Bartholomew Onyeka, has deployed armed police personnel to arrest the kidnappers and ensure the safe release of the abducted students. Operation Safe Haven (OPSH), and other security agencies have also deployed their personnel for search and rescue operations,” he said.

Nigeria's rising cost of living has led to protests across the country, with an attack on a truck carrying food items in Suleja area of Niger State and hundreds of residents of Dikwa town in Borno State protesting and raising concerns over hunger. The rising cost of food items has made access to three square meals per day increasingly unattainable for millions of people. In addition, soldiers had to open fire when some youths attacked trucks loaded with foodstuff in the Suleja area of Niger State. Many bags of assorted foodstuffs, especially rice, were stolen before soldiers arrived at the scene.

Police operatives blocked protesters from staging a peaceful demonstration against hunger, social, and economic difficulties in Jigawa State. The protest was organized by civil society organizations and political associations, and the state police commissioner requested them to postpone the demonstration due to security issues. The protesters called on President Bola Tinubu to review his economic policy to align it with the needs and welfare of Nigerians rather than foreign interests. They also called on the state governor, Malam Umar Namadi, to increase the workers' wage award from the proposed N10,000 to N30,000, which should be paid before Ramadan.

The National Economic Council (NEC) has taken steps to put an end to the economic challenges confronting the nation, including making fertilisers available to farmers and the establishment of agro-rangers to tackle insecurity in the farms. The vice president said that with collective efforts in developing a clear and actionable roadmap through short, medium, and long-term strategies, Nigeria will overcome its economic challenges.

In conclusion, the rising cost of living in Nigeria has led to protests and calls for government intervention to address the situation. The National Economic Council (NEC) has taken steps to ensure food security and affordability, but more work is needed to address the ongoing challenges faced by the country.

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Olayemi Cardoso, has stated that the bank's harsh forex reforms will eventually stabilize the naira and the economy in the long run. He stated that the bank has rolled out critical policies to strengthen the naira, which had been falling against the dollar. Cardoso said that the recent move made by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Ltd (NNPCL) to transfer its accounts to the CBN is boosting the confidence of investors. He also highlighted the recent move to have the NNPC and other government agencies move their funding straight to the CBN as a positive and confidence-boosting measure. This move is expected to create a more transparent market system and increase foreign exchange inflow. By involving major state-owned entities like the NNPC in these reforms, the CBN aims to strengthen the overall financial system and enhance economic stability.Cardoso also addressed the issue of overcrowding at the CBN's office and indicated that the central bank's internal arrangements were being reorganized for administrative convenience and efficiency. He expressed his focus on ensuring that the MPC meeting is impactful and complements the fiscal side of the economy.

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Olayemi Cardoso, has stated that the bank's harsh forex reforms will eventually stabilize the naira and the economy in the long run. He stated that the bank has rolled out critical policies to strengthen the naira, which had been falling against the dollar. Cardoso said that the recent move made by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Ltd (NNPCL) to transfer its accounts to the CBN is boosting the confidence of investors. He also highlighted the recent move to have the NNPC and other government agencies move their funding straight to the CBN as a positive and confidence-boosting measure. This move is expected to create a more transparent market system and increase foreign exchange inflow. By involving major state-owned entities like the NNPC in these reforms, the CBN aims to strengthen the overall financial system and enhance economic stability.Cardoso also addressed the issue of overcrowding at the CBN's office and indicated that the central bank's internal arrangements were being reorganized for administrative convenience and efficiency. He expressed his focus on ensuring that the MPC meeting is impactful and complements the fiscal side of the economy.

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Olayemi Cardoso, has stated that the bank's harsh forex reforms will eventually stabilize the naira and the economy in the long run. He stated that the bank has rolled out critical policies to strengthen the naira, which had been falling against the dollar. Cardoso said that the recent move made by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Ltd (NNPCL) to transfer its accounts to the CBN is boosting the confidence of investors. He also highlighted the recent move to have the NNPC and other government agencies move their funding straight to the CBN as a positive and confidence-boosting measure. This move is expected to create a more transparent market system and increase foreign exchange inflow. By involving major state-owned entities like the NNPC in these reforms, the CBN aims to strengthen the overall financial system and enhance economic stability.Cardoso also addressed the issue of overcrowding at the CBN's office and indicated that the central bank's internal arrangements were being reorganized for administrative convenience and efficiency. He expressed his focus on ensuring that the MPC meeting is impactful and complements the fiscal side of the economy.

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Olayemi Cardoso, has stated that the bank's harsh forex reforms will eventually stabilize the naira and the economy in the long run. He stated that the bank has rolled out critical policies to strengthen the naira, which had been falling against the dollar. Cardoso said that the recent move made by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Ltd (NNPCL) to transfer its accounts to the CBN is boosting the confidence of investors. He also highlighted the recent move to have the NNPC and other government agencies move their funding straight to the CBN as a positive and confidence-boosting measure. This move is expected to create a more transparent market system and increase foreign exchange inflow. By involving major state-owned entities like the NNPC in these reforms, the CBN aims to strengthen the overall financial system and enhance economic stability.Cardoso also addressed the issue of overcrowding at the CBN's office and indicated that the central bank's internal arrangements were being reorganized for administrative convenience and efficiency. He expressed his focus on ensuring that the MPC meeting is impactful and complements the fiscal side of the economy.

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Olayemi Cardoso, has stated that the bank's harsh forex reforms will eventually stabilize the naira and the economy in the long run. He stated that the bank has rolled out critical policies to strengthen the naira, which had been falling against the dollar. Cardoso said that the recent move made by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Ltd (NNPCL) to transfer its accounts to the CBN is boosting the confidence of investors. He also highlighted the recent move to have the NNPC and other government agencies move their funding straight to the CBN as a positive and confidence-boosting measure. This move is expected to create a more transparent market system and increase foreign exchange inflow. By involving major state-owned entities like the NNPC in these reforms, the CBN aims to strengthen the overall financial system and enhance economic stability.Cardoso also addressed the issue of overcrowding at the CBN's office and indicated that the central bank's internal arrangements were being reorganized for administrative convenience and efficiency. He expressed his focus on ensuring that the MPC meeting is impactful and complements the fiscal side of the economy.

The International Press Centre (IPC) has charged the media and civil society organisations (CSOs) to hold President Bola Ahmed Tinubu accountable on his campaign promises. The IPC Executive Director, Mr Lanre Arongudade, gave the charge on Wednesday in Abuja at the stakeholders’ round table on accountability, incorporating the public presentation of independently compiled campaign promises of Tinubu and the launch of an iOS/web app of media code for election. 

The event was to sensitise the media and civil society to their oversight functions as an institution that is given the constitutional responsibility to monitor governance and hold the government accountable to the people. During the campaigns, we documented the campaign promises of all the presidential candidates. Normally it is our tradition to publish that of the president so that we can look at these promises in our respective way.

These days we talk about solution-driven journalism but you can’t have solutions when you don’t pick promises, follow them, and ensure that they are actually implemented and also ask questions if there are challenges of implementation or there are changes to that plan,” Arogundade said.

Private healthcare providers plan to withdraw from private health insurance from January 31 due to poor tariffs and debts. The president of the Health and Managed Care Association of Nigeria blames the problem on economic crises and inflation, and is following up with HCPAN to discuss private health insurance. Delivery and post-natal were free.

The House of Representatives has called on the Central Bank of Nigeria to suspend the implementation of the new guidelines on the introduction of… Following the adoption of a motion moved by Leke Abejide on Tuesday, It also invited the Governor of CBN,.

Nine people, including a bride-to-be, died in a boat mishap in Shagari River at Gidan Magana, Sokoto State. The victims were mostly children between nine and 17 years old, but six of the passengers were rescued alive. The village head of Gidan Magana, Malam Muhammadu Auwal, prayed for their souls to be granted Jannatul Firdaus.

Nine people, including a bride-to-be, died in a boat mishap in Shagari River at Gidan Magana, Sokoto State. The victims were mostly children between nine and 17 years old, but six of the passengers were rescued alive. The village head of Gidan Magana, Malam Muhammadu Auwal, prayed for their souls to be granted Jannatul Firdaus.

A mechanic named Yahaya Muhammed Galadima (25), who had his two hands amputated by gunmen, described his ordeal to Daily Trust.Galadima is at the Dalhatu Araf Specialist Hospital in Lafia right now getting medical attention."We were ambushed before Yelwa while returning.Both of us tumbled from my motorbike before we realised what was happening, and my son suffered injuries to his left leg. My son wasn't injured by them.The command has not yet been alerted of the event, according to ASP Nansel Ramhan, the police spokeswoman for Nasarawa State.

Hanfia Abubakar's killing has led to the arrest of Abdulmalik Tanko. Hanfia was allegedly taken away in a commercial tricycle known locally as Adaidata Sahu or Keke NAPEP. Later, her kidnappers wanted N6,000,000 in ransom from the pupil's parents. Hanifa was discovered dead at the Tudunwada school grounds, her corpse had been hacked into pieces, and she had been buried, according to Wasila Dahiru, Hanifa's kidnapper who had been apprehended. Said that Tanko was detained following persistent attempts. He claimed to have poisoned the girl to death during questioning after realising that she identified him, working with someone named Hashim Isyaku, the police official added. According to him, Hashim also admitted that he met with him and a woman named Fatima Jibreel Musa sometime in November 2021 and gave them the order to kidnap Hanifa.

The manner in which El-Rufai established a region in Kaduna and chose his son's buddy to serve as its rulerLegislators are suspended by the M Zamfara Assembly "for collaborating with bandits."After being held captive for more than a month, students from Kebbi were released. The law establishing metropolitan administrations to oversee Zaria, Kaduna, and Kafanchan as organic cities was approved, it was announced when Bayero's appointment was made. served as the ministry's permanent secretary. Later, he was made managing director of the Kaduna Market Development Agency. In June 2015, he became a Special Assistant for Job Creation in El-Rufai's administration. holds a bachelor's degree in Economics and is an honours graduate of the Eastern Mediterranean University.

Former President Goodluck Jonathan has denied any move to influence the nomination of a minister from Bayelsa State in the government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, saying some politicians in the state might have wrongly misinterpreted his recent visit to the Presidential Villa. Jonathan in a statement by his Special Assistant on Media, Mr Ikechukwu Eze, said his recent visit to the presidential villa was to brief Tinubu, who has just been elected as the Chairman of the Authority of ECOWAS Heads of State and Government, on the recent developments in the sub-region; himself is the Chairman of ECOWAS Council of the Wise.

“While we once again dismiss the claim as untrue, we advise Nigerians to ignore mischief makers and their web of fake news because of the danger they pose to the peace and healthy growth of our nation,” he said.

The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) has backed the decision of the federal government to stop funding of professional bodies and councils. The federal government recently said that budgetary allocations would no longer be made for professional bodies and councils with effect from January, 2024. The President of ICAN, Innocent Okwuosa, yesterday in a statement, said the institute was a self-financed organisation that did not depend on allocation from the government, stressing that all professional bodies should be self-financing organisations. He said that on no account should budgetary allocation be extended to any professional body as it would assist in bringing down the high cost of public governance. He, however, noted that the institute did not support the discontinuance of budgetary allocations to some regulatory councils that functioned as parastatals such as the Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria (FRC) and the National Council on Climate Change (NCCC).

The United Nations (UN) has said that the humanitarian crisis in Internally Displaced Persons’ (IDPs) camps in Benue State is worse than those in the North Eastern part of Nigeria, particularly Borno State. Resident/Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Dr Mathias Schmale, made the observation when he visited Governor Hyacinth Alia at the Government House in Makurdi.

The Resident/Humanitarian Coordinator therefore urged Alia to help his team to identify key issues in order to find solutions to the insecurity crisis bedeviling the state, adding that “we are keen with government who are willing to bring lasting solutions – relocating them (IDPs) back to their homes.” Governor Alia on his part decried the extent of humanitarian crisis his administration on assumption of office had encountered.

“Out of this number, 241,342 persons are in 13 IDP camps while the balance of 1,882,658 live within their host communities. The plight of internally displaced persons (IDPs) cannot be overlooked. SEMA has been directed to put together a resettlement plan, which will be shared with your office to solicit for intervention.”

Benue State - Borno State 

A 46-year-old truck driver, Kasimu Bawa, has been arraigned for offences bordering on illegal mining and illegal possession of solid minerals contrary to and punishable under Section 1(8) (b) (i) of the Miscellaneous Offenses Act 1984. Kasimu was arraigned on an amended one-count charge before Justice Muhammed Sani of the Federal High Court sitting in Ilorin by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

He was the driver of the truck conveying solid minerals purchased without licence by a Chinese, Dang Deng, who was convicted and sentenced to five years imprisonment on October 19, 2022 by the same court. Kasimu was arrested by the EFCC on September 9, 2022, at the Share area of the state with a DAF truck numbered: KEY 777 ZF, containing 25 tonnes of solid minerals worth about N2.4m suspected to be products of illegal mining.

When the charge was read to him, the defendant pleaded not guilty.

Ahead of the November 11, 2023, Imo governorship election, the candidate of the Action Alliance (AA), Maj. Gen.  Lincoln Ogunewe (rtd) has promised to carry out his campaign based on issues bothering the state. Ogunewe said this in an interaction with UK-based journalists during his strategic consultation with Imo people in the diaspora.

He noted that his campaign will be rancor-free and focus on issues of public interest that will spur Imo people to line up behind him and give him their votes. In a statement in Owerri, the retired general said that in his interactions with the Imo people in various parts of the diaspora, he had always maintained his firm belief in a people-driven society where laws of the land are put in place by the people and for the people. 

Obinna Okwara's seat as the representative for Nkwerre State Constituency has been declared vacant by Kennedy Ibe, speaker of the Imo State House of Assembly. The speaker, Ibe, has left the party three times since he was re-elected to represent Obowo State Constituency in 2019. One of the six MPs the house leadership has suspended since December is OKwara, who last week switched from the APC to the PDP. Ibe made the choice on Wednesday during plenary. The speaker requested that a by-election be held to fill the open seat by the Independent National Electoral Commission.

Kennedy Ibe, speaker of the Imo State House of Assembly, has vacated Obinna Okwara's position as the representative for the Nkwerre State Constituency. Since he was re-elected to represent the Obowo State Constituency in 2019, the speaker, Ibe, has resigned from the party three times. OKwara, an APC-to-PDP switcheroo who was one of the six MPs the house leadership dismissed in December, is currently a member of the PDP. The decision was made by Ibe on Wednesday during plenary. The speaker asked the Independent National Electoral Commission to hold a by-election to fill the vacant seat

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) arrested a fake couple, Ilonzeh Kingsley Onyebuchi and Ilonzeh Roseline Nonyelum, who were allegedly going for medical treatment in India. They were intercepted at Lagos airport's screening point and placed on excretion observation. The couple's travel documents identified them as Ilonzeh Kingsley Onyebuchi and Ilonzeh Roseline Nonyelum, but preliminary investigation revealed they were not a couple. The couple later gave their real name as Ngogbike Nkechi. Uwaezuoke and another suspect were arrested in Abuja on March 19, 2022.

The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof Mahmood Yakubu, has said that the 2023 general elections witnessed diverse challenges, including misconduct by INEC officials and the deployment of thugs by some political actors. Yakubu disclosed this on Monday in Abuja at a meeting with Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) on the review of the elections, saying, “As you are aware, there were many challenges encountered before and during the elections. The severe cash and fuel situations were compounded by the perennial insecurity nationwide.

“The impact on our deployment plans, compounded by the behaviour of some of our own officials in the field, made logistics management particularly challenging. The deployment of thugs by some political actors made Election Day administration difficult in a number of places.” The INEC boss noted that since the 2019 general elections, the commission had worked together with the National Assembly, CSOs, and other stakeholders for the improvement of the electoral process.

Civil Society Organistion (CSOs)

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Nigeria has raised concerns over the increasing costs of its operational expenses, disruptions caused by frequent changes in proposed primaries, and the arbitrary granting of waivers for defectors. Chairman Prof. Mahmood Yakubu urged political parties to adhere strictly to their proposed dates and modes of primaries to ensure certainty and optimal resource deployment. He also criticised the practice of granting waivers to candidates who were recently members of other political parties, as it consumes legal fees and resources that could be used more productively in other electoral activities. The INEC has announced that only six political parties have uploaded their candidate details on the INEC portal so far, and primaries will begin on April 6.

On Wednesday, retired military personnel marched through Abuja under the banner of the Coalition for Concerned Veterans to demand payment of the pension arrears that resulted from the introduction of the new minimum wage. which picketed the Ministry of Finance and said that even though they had written to the Minister of Defence, we had given them the reins and that their compensation was excessive under government policy.

In order to successfully hold free, fair, and credible general elections in 2023, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has highlighted voter education and sensitization as one of the five main areas that require cooperation from the UN. The other areas were enumerated by Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, the chairman of INEC, and included inclusion measures, voter education and sensitization, security, capacity building for political parties, and assistance for staff in terms of training and capacity building. Serge Gakwandi Kubwimana, the head of the UN delegation, had earlier stated that the delegation had been to Nigeria in response to a letter the UN secretary general had received in January asking for the UN to support Nigerian elections in 2023.

Ahead of the November 11 governorship elections in Bayelsa, Imo and Kogi States, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) have called for action against fake news and hate speech to ensure the success of the elections and sable democracy in the country. They made the call on Wednesday in Abuja at the commission’s meeting with media executives on the review of the 2023 general elections, which was the sixth in the series of meetings held by the commission in the last three weeks to review the election.

Speaking at the parley, the INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, assured that the commission will continue to welcome suggestions that will improve the future conduct of elections and the electoral process in Nigeria. He said that there are many positive aspects of the 2023 General Election and at the same time, there were challenges.

“As we review the 2023 elections, let us candidly address the issue of hate speech and misinformation, seeking ways to combat them without infringing on the principles of free speech. Additionally, we must discuss how to ensure equitable access to media platforms for all political actors, promoting inclusivity and fair representation,” Isiguzo said.

Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has promised that security challenges in the South-East region will be halted within two minutes of his regaining freedom. Kanu, who is currently in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) and facing a trial for terrorism, accused government officials of profiting from insecurity and said that even those perpetrating evil in the name of IPOB would cease immediately after his release. Kanu urged for peace in the region and urged for those involved in violence to come out of the situation.

The army made a significant announcement about the redeployment of its general and senior officers to new positions both at its headquarters and around the nation. It was noted that some General Officers Commanding were among the impacted officers. General Officers Commanding and other senior officers were among the individuals impacted by the reorganisation, which was announced on Monday, According to him, the Chief of Army Staff, Maj. GA Umelo was transferred from the Defence Simulation Centre to the Defence Headquarters and made Director-General.

The army made a significant announcement about the redeployment of its general and senior officers to new positions both at its headquarters and around the nation. It was noted that some General Officers Commanding were among the impacted officers. General Officers Commanding and other senior officers were among the individuals impacted by the reorganisation, which was announced on Monday, According to him, the Chief of Army Staff, Maj. GA Umelo was transferred from the Defence Simulation Centre to the Defence Headquarters and made Director-General.

Emir of Kano Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero urges wealthy individuals and businesses to invest in education to save children's future and the state. He announced that secondary education will reduce unemployment, create jobs, and contribute to socio-economic development. The school, established in 2014, has graduated excellent students in Nigeria and abroad.

The House of Representatives Ad-hoc Committee investigating the alleged mismanagement of the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System and employment racketeering in ministries, departments and agencies yesterday summoned the Accountant-General of the Federation and other officials. Also invited to appear before the committee include the Auditor-General for the Federation, the Head of Civil Service of the Federation, the chairman, of the Federal Civil Service Commission, the executive chairman of the Federal Character Commission and the Director-General of Budget and Planning.

The invitation was contained in a letter sent to the affected agencies and signed by chairman of committee, Yusuf Adamu Gagdi. The letter also directed all other MDAs, parastatals and tertiary institutions to make their submissions to the committee secretariat on or before July 27.

Nigerians are increasingly angry over the Senate's recent suspension of Senator Abdul Ningi, who has been accused of theft of over N3.7 trillion by his state indigenes. Ningi had petitions instituted against him since 2015, but managed to make it to the Senate. In 2018, he declared his intention to become a member of the APC leadership, which was granted 'wankan tsarki' to corrupt politicians. This led to the suspension of Ningi, who blew the whistle on the theft. The Senate and its leadership denied his charges, with some Senate members, opposition parties, political experts, civil society organizations, and the media calling for an investigation. Former President General Ibrahim Babangida advised the Senate leadership to investigate Ningi's claims rather than suspend him. However, Akpabio and his colleagues went ahead and suspended Ningi. The second villain of the piece is the Northern senators' forum, who were responsible for scrutinizing the budget and detecting the padding case. They chose to remain on Akpabio's side rather than stand for the North they were elected to represent. The deputy Senate president was also a case in point, but could not insist on an investigation before Ningi's suspension. Senator Ningi might be recalled soon, but he will have to apologize for whistle-blowing. He should challenge his suspension in court, as it was illegal and against the rules of the chamber. Godswill Akpabio, the Senate president, has several cases at the EFCC related to the theft of funds and has spoken about sharing money twice since becoming Senate president.

Jigawa State government has petitioned the Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission (PCACC) seeking the commission’s assistance in recovering several property belonging to the government that had been encroached upon in Kano. In the petition dated July 15 but sighted by Daily Trust on Monday, the Jigawa State Commissioner for Special Duties, Auwal Sankara, appealed to the Executive Secretary of the commission, Muhuyi Magaji, to help investigate circumstances surrounding the allocation of the said properties and help recover it for the Jigawa state government.

Sankara explained that the property were allocated to Jigawa State government in 1993 after the creation of the state from the old Kano state as part of the sharing formula between the two states. “It is worth noting that since 1991 after the creation of Jigawa State from old Kano State this issue of assets sharing becomes problematic despite several efforts made by Jigawa State to amicably resolve the issue,” he added while appealing on behalf of the state’s Committee on Investigation of Land Properties.

The House of Representatives ad hoc committee, chaired by Yusuf Adamu Gagdi, has been investigating job racketeering in government establishments. The committee has found a complex ring of officials involved in underhand dealings, including selling job offers at millions. The committee has petitions against 39 Ministry Departments (MDAs) over allegations of job racketeering. Some of the MDAs accused include the Federal Character Commission (FCC), Office of the Head of Service, Budget Office, IPPIS, and Federal Civil Service Commission. The committee will engage over 600 MDAs to uncover the extent of job racketeering in the federal civil service. A civil society organization, the Centre for Anti-Corruption and Open Leadership, has called for prosecution of some FCC staff and management over their involvement in job racketeering.

The House of Representatives ad hoc committee, chaired by Yusuf Adamu Gagdi, has been investigating job racketeering in government establishments. The committee has found a complex ring of officials involved in underhand dealings, including selling job offers at millions. The committee has petitions against 39 Ministry Departments (MDAs) over allegations of job racketeering. Some of the MDAs accused include the Federal Character Commission (FCC), Office of the Head of Service, Budget Office, IPPIS, and Federal Civil Service Commission. The committee will engage over 600 MDAs to uncover the extent of job racketeering in the federal civil service. A civil society organization, the Centre for Anti-Corruption and Open Leadership, has called for prosecution of some FCC staff and management over their involvement in job racketeering.

The House of Representatives ad hoc committee, chaired by Yusuf Adamu Gagdi, has been investigating job racketeering in government establishments. The committee has found a complex ring of officials involved in underhand dealings, including selling job offers at millions. The committee has petitions against 39 Ministry Departments (MDAs) over allegations of job racketeering. Some of the MDAs accused include the Federal Character Commission (FCC), Office of the Head of Service, Budget Office, IPPIS, and Federal Civil Service Commission. The committee will engage over 600 MDAs to uncover the extent of job racketeering in the federal civil service. A civil society organization, the Centre for Anti-Corruption and Open Leadership, has called for prosecution of some FCC staff and management over their involvement in job racketeering.

The House of Representatives ad hoc committee, chaired by Yusuf Adamu Gagdi, has been investigating job racketeering in government establishments. The committee has found a complex ring of officials involved in underhand dealings, including selling job offers at millions. The committee has petitions against 39 Ministry Departments (MDAs) over allegations of job racketeering. Some of the MDAs accused include the Federal Character Commission (FCC), Office of the Head of Service, Budget Office, IPPIS, and Federal Civil Service Commission. The committee will engage over 600 MDAs to uncover the extent of job racketeering in the federal civil service. A civil society organization, the Centre for Anti-Corruption and Open Leadership, has called for prosecution of some FCC staff and management over their involvement in job racketeering.

The West African Elders Forum (WAEF) 2023 Election Mission to Sierra Leone has arrived in Freetown to encourage and support a peaceful democratic transition ahead of the country’s general election scheduled for this weekend, June 24. Former President and Chairman of the forum, Dr Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, is the head of the mission.

The team also has former Burkinabe Prime Minister and one-time President of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), Kadre Ouedraogo and staff from the WAEF secretariat as members. A statement by the Communications Officer of the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation,  host of the WAEF secretariat, Mr Wealth Dickson Ominabo, on Wednesday, quoted the head of mission as urging the people of Sierra Leone to approach the election with utmost patriotism by prioritising the nation’s peace and stability and refrain from acts capable of undermining the nation’s democracy.

On Wednesday night, an accident involving the motorcade of the former president Goodluck Jonathan resulted in the deaths of two aides. His Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ikechukwu Eze, released a statement in which he said, "Former President Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan has expressed deep sadness over the unfortunate tragic death of two police officers attached to him, in a road crash today at the vicinity of the Abuja airport, while on his way out of the airport."Dr. Jonathan observed with grief that Inspectors Ibrahim Abazi and Yakubu Toma, who had passed away, were honourable men and women who were committed to carrying out their jobs and serving the country. In the collision, which featured a car carrying the security guys, two other officers also suffered injuries.They were taken by ambulance to an Abuja hospital, where they are responding to care. The former President's office sent condolences to the dead families and the Police High Command.

American multinational financial services firm, JP Morgan has estimated Nigeria’s FX reserve to be around $3.7 billion as of the end of 2022.The bank disclosed this in its latest report on Nigeria titled “Nigeria: Reform pause rather than fatigue”.  The report also predicted headline inflation to reach 28% by the end of the year on the back of rising food prices and other impacts of President Bola Tinubu’s reforms.Daily Trust recalled that Nigeria’s external reserves as of December 29, 2022 was put at $37.09bn, a drop of $3.43bn from $40.52bn as of the end of December 31, 2021, according to data from the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN.However, JP Morgan noted that the lower-than-reported FX reserve is the result of larger currency swaps and borrowings against the FX reserve.The bank, which made a few assumptions in arriving at the estimates, noted that, “Based on partial information from the audited financial accounts, we estimate that CBN’s net FX reserves were around US$3.7bn at the end of last year, from US$14.0bn at the end-2021.”The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited recently secured a $3 billion in crude-for-cash funding from the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) to shore up the nation’s FX reserve

The judiciary is preparing to resume for the New Year, 2022, with thousands of cases that were adjourned in the previous year set to get substantive hearing. These include the Supreme Court's judgment on Executive Order 10, the trial of IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu, the Federal High Court's hearing of the suit by 36 states governors seeking to stop deductions of $418 million Paris Club refund debt, and an appeal challenging Buhari's election. These cases are expected to shape the art industry in 2022. The Court of Appeal in Abuja had fixed February 22, 2022, for hearing in the appeal seeking to nullify President Muhammadu Buhari's election and swear in Abubakar Atiku as president. The appellate court had ordered the appellants in the matter, the Incorporated Trustees of the Civil Society Observatory for Constitutional and Legal Compliance (CSOCLC) to regularise and serve the process to defence lawyers to President Buhari to enable them to respond to the claims before the adjourned date. On February 25, 2022, an Ikeja High Court has fixed the date as judgment day in the five kidnapping cases currently involving Evans.

The terrorists who stormed a military post in Kaduna State's Birnin Gwari neighbourhood on Wednesday, according to the federal government, suffered severe casualties when they were beaten back. Lai Mohammed, the minister of information and culture, made this comment in response to a question about security following the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting, which was held at the Council Chambers of the Presidential Villa in Abuja under the chairmanship of President Muhammadu Buhari. Contrary to popular belief, Mohammed claimed that the administration was not overtaken by anxieties nationwide and emphasised that not all military victories in the fight against terrorism occurred in the media.

Kaduna State governor, Senator Uba Sani, has urged the development of a framework for reinventing Islamic education to align with global dynamics and equip youth with essential life skills. He made this call during his address at a three-day conference on Islamic Learning and Scholarship in Africa, organised by Arewa House in conjunction with the Organisation of Islamic Conference (OIC), International Research Center for Islamic History Culture and Arts (IRCICA) Turkey, and Al Istiqama University Sumaila, Kano.

The governor emphasised the significance of equipping young people with skills that will enable them to compete globally and make meaningful contributions to society.

Kaduna State governor Uba Sani has requested the governorship election petition tribunal in the state to dismiss the petition filed against him by the candidate of the Peoples' Democratic Party (PDP) Mohammed Isa Ashiru. He is challenging the emergence of Uba Sani as governor of kaduna state at the tribunal. the governor's lead counsel chief Bayo Ojo argued for the dismissal of the petition based on an incurable procedural error. he supported his argument with various legal authorities, including previous judgements of the supreme court and the court of appeal to demonstrate the petitioners' procedural noncompliance. they insisted that a valid application for the issuance of a pre-hearing notice had been made. 

The Kano state house of assembly has approved a request by the state givernor, Engr. Abba Kabir yusuf to appoint twenty special advisers. 

Daily trust reports that this is the first sitting of the 10th state house of assembly after swaering in the members on Tuesday. the house later elected Ismail Jibrin Falgore of the NNPP as its speaker.

The Kano State Government has suspended school fees increments for private primary and secondary schools, with books and uniform sales put on hold. The government has started issuance of registration forms for private schools since withdrawing their certificate of operations. The new registration aims to maintain an accurate database for government policy and monitoring, in line with the May 2014 law. Parents will also be required to pay school fees for their children. Private school operators who fail to apply before the deadline will face sanctions.

A Kano State Sharia court sitting in PRP Gama has remanded a popular Islamic praise singer, Malam Usman Mai Dubun Isa, in prison for allegedly uttering words that are injurious to the character of one of the leaders of the Tijjaniyya Movement in the state, Tijjani Usman Bare-Bari. When the prosecution counsel, Aliyu Abideen read the charge against him, he pleaded not guilty, and his lawyer, A. J. Usman, prayed the court to admit him to bail.

The prosecution counsel told the court that admitting the defendant to bail would be dangerous to his life as the followers of the cleric had threatened to injure or kill him. The Khadi, Malam Nura Yusuf Ahmad, who ordered that the singer be remanded, adjourned the case to August 17.

Incidents of vandalism, arson, and thuggery in Kogi State have cast a frightening shadow on its political horizon ahead of the November 11 governorship poll. These reported violent activities have caused apprehension across the state as preparations for the election gather momentum, Daily Trust reports. A few months back, the public space was awash with news of the destruction and burning of party offices, posters, billboards, personal assault, and other violent activities in some parts of the west and east senatorial districts of the state. Daily Trust reports that some crises were reported in   Lokoja, Anyigba, Ejule, Ajaka, Odolu, Okpo, and Aloma that sent shock waves across the state. Odekina Ojonimi, a leader from the Biraidu community in Dekina LGA said the Abocho incident was just a tip of similar ugly incidents that had characterised the land over the vaulting ambition of politicians to retain or acquire power. “The political scenario in Kogi State can best be described as an unceasing roller-coaster. For years, it has been a violent ride on a slippery track that was dotted with twists and turns, as gladiators jostle for power. “The elections during the transition of power in the state had always been coated with thuggery, violence, intrigues, and maneuverings, with the citizens paying for it. Chairperson of Kogi NGOs Network (KONGONET), Ambassador Idris Ozovehe Muraina, said curbing political violence in the coming election in Kogi requires a comprehensive approach involving multiple stakeholders and strategies. Ambassador Muraina said that individuals involved in perpetrating political violence should be held accountable for their actions, including establishing a strong legal framework that punishes perpetrators of violence and ensures swift and impartial justice.

Suspected political thugs on Sunday night set on fire the Social Democratic Party (SDP) governorship campaign office in Lokoja, Kogi State. It was gathered that the thugs invaded the office located around Paparanda Square on IBB Way around 12am and carried out the act.

Residents reported that the arsonists chased away the security men at the office and thereafter set the office on fire, destroying valuables and documents, including vehicles. The SDP deputy governorship candidate for the November 11, gubernatorial election in the state, Dr. Sam Ranti Abenemi, said: “The hoodlums came in large numbers and set all the property in the office on fire, including generators, computers, campaign materials, and televisions.”

Kogi Gubernatorial race - SDP

Kwara State government has announced the reversal of the directive reducing workdays from five to three for civil servants. The government on June 5, 2023, through a letter from the state’s Head of Service, Mrs Susan Oluwole, reduced the work days from five to three in the state.  She said the decision was to cushion the effect of fuel subsidy removal by the federal government on the civil servants in the state. However, in a letter to the heads of Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), Mrs Oluwole reversed the decision.

The Nigeria Labour Congress on Wednesday the Federal Government to reverse all “anti-poor” and anti-workers policies within seven days or risk a nationwide strike. It listed the policies as including the recent petrol price hike, the increase in school fees and the Value Added Tax increase.

The NLC also demanded release of the eight months withheld salary of university lecturers as well as inauguration of the Presidential Steering Committee as agreed in the earlier consequential dialogues. Joe Ajaero and Emmanuel Ugboaja, the president and the secretary of the NLC respectively stated this in a communique they jointly issued at the end of the congress’ emergency Central Working Committee. They alleged government’s insensitivity to the plights of Nigerians.

Asked if the NLC will go ahead with the threat to go on strike on August 2 if the federal government failed to reverse alleged anti-labour policies, Ajaero said, “Well, protest,? I wouldn’t know, we are going ahead with the protest because we have to be emphatic on what we put in our communique, we said we’re commencing protests from the 2nd.”

Several railway projects worth over $21.3bn (about N16 trillion) across the country have stalled due to lack of funding, findings by Daily Trust have revealed. The development is threatening the federal government’s railway modernisation programme designed to connect all states of the federation. The projects include the Ibadan-Kano Standard Gauge Railway ($5.3bn); $11.17bn Lagos-Calabar coastal railway project; $3.02bn rehabilitation project for the Eastern Line (Port Harcourt-Maiduguri) and the $1.9bn Kano-Maradi railway project. All the projects were incorporated in the 25-year railway roadmap unveiled during the administration of former President Olusegun Obasanjo which will expire in 2025. It would be recalled that in 2016, China and Nigeria signed an agreement for the over $11 billion contract to build the coastal railway which was to start before the end of 2018. While the project did not take off, the federal government at the same time flagged off the Lagos-Ibadan project which is 157km and completed it in record time. Meanwhile, the minister yesterday assured that the Customs building obstructing the standard gauge to Apapa Ports would be removed in three months’ time. Speaking during a meeting with the management and leaders of the Nigerian Railway Workers (NUR) at the  Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) headquarters, the minister also assured of the commitment of the Bola Tinubu-led administration to the railway modernisation programme. He also gave the Nigerian Railway Corporation three weeks to complete the operationalization of the Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu Train Station at Apapa. Daily Trust reports that the Customs building had stalled the linkage to the Apapa Port forcing the NRC to temporarily bypass it and create a track in order to start freight services on the Lagos-Ibadan Railway.

The People Democratic Party (PDP) and People Redemption Party (PRP) have contested the All Progressive Congress (APC)'s victory in local government elections in Katsina and Adamawa states. The PDP claimed victory, while the PRP described the election as "child's play". The state governor will swear in the new elected council chairmen.