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Kayode Egbetokun, the inspector-general of police (IGP), says security operatives did not shoot live ammunition at protesters during the #EndBadGovernance demonstration.

During a press briefing in Abuja on Tuesday, Egbetokun said security agencies did not deploy “excessive use of force” during the protest.

The IGP said some security operatives were attacked during the protest, adding that police officers, who were injured, are currently in critical condition at the hospital.

Egbetokun described the reports of police shooting at unarmed protesters as “fake news”.

“The police and the military, and indeed no other security agency involved in the management of this protest, have deployed excessive use of force,” the IGP said.

“Instead, what we had were attacks on security agents during the protest. From our record, there was no shooting incident by the police.

“The police or military did not use any live ammunition in the management of these protests.

“Instead, we have had cases where our officers were injured critically and are in critical condition in the hospital as we speak.

“I will dismiss that as fake news and very wrong allegations. We didn’t use excessive force at all.”

Nigerians have taken to the streets since August 1 in what they call the #EndBadGovernance protest, demanding solutions to the various challenges, including the rising cost of living and insecurity in the country.

However, the protest has turned violent in some parts of the country, resulting in the looting and vandalisation of properties.

The claim made by Egbetokun that security operatives did not shoot at protesters is different from what was experienced by TheCable during the coverage of the protest.

On Saturday, TheCable’s journalists experienced how police officers shot live bullets at protesters at the Moshood Abiola Stadium in Abuja.

Amnesty International Nigeria said over 10 protesters were killed by police in Kano during the protest.

The Federal Government has concluded plans to sell a 50kg bag of rice at N40,000 to public servants with a view to alleviating the food crisis in the nation and its effects on Nigerians.

This was disclosed in a letter from the Federal Ministry of Special Duties and Inter-governmental Affairs, which was signed by the Director of Human Resources of the Ministry, Jaiyesimi Abimbola.

The letter said all interested staff members were to complete a Google form on the OHCSF website and submit it to the director of human resources for endorsement.

It noted that payment for and the distribution of the rice would be coordinated by designated offices while the chairman, Joint Union Council of the ministry, would serve as an observer for transparency reasons in the course of the exercise.

“As part of the Federal Government’s efforts to alleviate the current food crisis in the country and its effects on the general population, I am directed to inform you that 50kg bags of rice will be sold at a subsidised rate of N40,000 only per bag to interested public servants in Abuja.

“For effective implementation, all interested staff are required to complete a Google form on the OHCSF website, https://www.ohcsf.gov.ng, print, and submit same to the Director, HR, for endorsement.

“Payment for and distribution of the rice will be coordinated by designated officials while the chairman, Joint Union Council of the Ministry is required to serve as an observer during the period of the exercise for the purpose of transparency.

“I am to add that each staff is only entitled to purchase one bag. Two or more staff may also jointly pay for a bag for sharing among themselves.

“Please bring the contents of this circular to the attention of staff in your respective Departments/Units for information and guidance.”

The Federal Government had recently said it had created centres across the country where Nigerians could purchase 50kg bags of rice for N40,000.

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Muhammed Idris, said the initiative was one of several initiatives by the Tinubu administration to ease living conditions for citizens.

The ongoing #EndBadGovernanceinNigeria protest in Kaduna took a new twist on Monday as protesters regrouped and set fire to a security patrol vehicle belonging to the Kaduna State Vigilance Service in Rigasa, located in the Igabi Local Government Area.

The Zaria office of the Kaduna State Traffic Law Enforcement Agency was also razed.

Spokesman for the state police command, ASP Mansir Hassan, confirmed that hoodlums vandalised a branch of one of the new generation banks at Tudun Wada in Kaduna South Local Government Area of Kaduna State on Monday.

He said, “Hoodlums broke into the bank and carted away some valuables and also destroyed some vehicles parked within the bank premises.”

He, however, debunked rumours that “a police armoured personnel carrier was snatched by the violent protesters at Tudun Wada.”

Hassan said, “The driver of the armoured vehicle succeeded in manoeuvring the crowd of protesters who climbed on top of the vehicle since it was carrying live ammunition and couldn’t have used maximum force against the crowd.

“On the same day, protesters vandalised several government properties, including the office of the Kaduna State Traffic Law Enforcement Agency on Sokoto Road in the heart of the state. Part of the office was burnt, and furniture and other items were stolen.”

Our correspondent reports that this unexpected escalation has raised concerns about the protests’ direction and the potential involvement of external influences.

This was just as the Kaduna State Security Council, led by Governor Uba Sani, has imposed a 24-hour curfew on Kaduna and Zaria metropolitan cities and their environs, effective immediately.

The decision followed a review of the security situation in the state, which revealed that the ongoing protests have been hijacked by criminal elements engaging in looting and destruction of private and public property.

In a statement by the Overseeing Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Samuel Aruwan, citizens were advised to remain indoors while security forces work to maintain safety and security.

He said the curfew would be reviewed as necessary.

The Kaduna State Government urged citizens to cooperate with the security forces and to report any suspicious activities.

Meanwhile, after a brief period of calm, the protesters, mainly youths and children, reassembled in the city centrechanting “bama so,” meaning, “we don’t want” in Hausa.

They carried no placards stating their demands, only leaves and the Russian national flags.

According to one of the protesters, who wished to remain anonymous, they were angered by President Bola Tinubu’s failure to announce the return of fuel subsidies in his Sunday address to the nation.

Nigerians have taken a swipe at Omoyele Sowore, African Action Congress candidate for the 2023 presidential election for insisting the hunger protests continue on Monday.

This comes after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Sunday appealed to Nigerians to suspend the protests to dialogue with the government over the challenges facing the Nation.

To this end, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor of Lagos State, Jibril Gawat said on his social media account that protest leaders in Ojota have declared to suspend the demonstration after Tinubu’s speech.

However, in response to Gawat’s post, Sowore insisted that the protest continue on Monday, adding details of demonstration locations.

Meanwhile, Nigerians took a swipe at Sowore over his recent call.

@Bellotec: “If you like, listen to him, you will just die and die for nothing. Those who were killed yesterday in the Kurna/Bacirawa axis of Kano died for nothing, nothing will change, and nobody will be prosecuted, only leaving their family to grief. If you like, no listen, you won’t rest in peace sha.”

@bolajiayo: “Why don’t you come with your children and lead the protest? Why instigate other people’s children to go out and protest? What happened to your children? Abi they are not patriotic Nigerians?

@computizzy1: “Nah, bro. People are going back to work tomorrow. This shit ain’t working and they’re tired of it. You gonna have to fly down from the US to come run it yourself. You can still get flights from EWR or JFK that’ll get you to Lagos tomorrow morning.”

Tinubu’s broadcast comes after at least 15 have been reported dead, and several properties destroyed in Kano, Kaduna, Niger, Yobe and other parts of the country in the first three days of the protests, tagged #EndBadGovernance.

Governor Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa State has challenged President Bola Tinubu to act fast in addressing the grievances of Nigerians.

In a statewide broadcast Sunday afternoon, Fintiri stressed that it is not enough for the President to tell Nigerians that he has heard their cries. According to him, Nigerians should not wait endlessly for necessary actions.

The governor, who spoke on the #EndBadGovernance protest in Adamawa State, commended residents for conducting themselves peacefully, even as he stressed on the need for the Federal Government to heed the calls of the people.

He said, “The protest might be unpopular especially because of the way it was carried out in some states, but the message is clear and the demands are genuine. None of us can deny that there is hunger and general poverty.”

He added that as leaders of the people, those in government must, at all times, not only listen but also act.

“The lesson we must derive from the protest is the constant reminder that it is not enough to tell the citizens we have heard. We must be seen as doing the needful in providing solutions to citizens’ concerns,” the governor said.

DAILY POST reports that after the first two busy days of protests on August 1 and 2, especially the state capital, Yola, protests have almost completely fizzled out in Adamawa State.

No violence incident has been recorded in the state.

Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has urged the police and other security agencies to stop shooting and killing protesters demanding good governance in Nigeria.

Daily Trust reports that some Nigerians had organised a 10-day nationwide protest against what they termed as bad governance and had taken to the streets on Thursday to drive home their demands.

The protest which began peacefully on the first day later took a dramatic turn when some miscreants hijacked the exercise in some states, destroying and looting properties.

On Saturday, Police and sister security agencies used force, including the use of tear gas and live bullets, to disperse peaceful protesters in many states, including the nation’s capital, Abuja.

Amnesty International reports that at least 13 people have been killed during the protests, most by the police and other security agencies.

However, the police said seven people have been killed during the protests, none of them by security operatives.

Weighing in on the situation, Atiku in a statement on Saturday, questioned the professionalism of the security agencies in the handling of the ongoing demonstrations.

He said the shooting of protesters reminds him of “the dark days of military dictatorship”.

He called on President Bola Tinubu to address and implement the demands of Nigerians

The statement reads: “I vehemently condemn the heinous act of using live ammunition on citizens peacefully protesting against bad governance, as witnessed today in Kano and Abuja. This is utterly intolerable and reminiscent of the dark days of military dictatorship.

“It is crucial to remind the government and security agencies of their paramount duty to ensure a safe and secure environment where citizens can exercise their right to protest without fear.

“When security forces open fire on innocent protesters, they do nothing but exacerbate tensions, transforming peaceful demonstrations into chaos. I refuse to believe that inciting violence is the intention of our authorities.

“I urge the international community, including the United Nations and the International Criminal Court, to closely monitor the situation in Nigeria and hold its leadership and security apparatus accountable.

“I reaffirm my counsel to protesters to steadfastly exercise their right to peaceful protest and reject any form of violence.

“Those engaging in looting and the destruction of public and private property must be isolated and prosecuted according to the law. By indulging in such acts, they undermine the legitimate protests and play into the hands of those who oppose their right to protest.

“President Tinubu must demonstrate true leadership by immediately addressing and implementing the demands of the Nigerian people.”

Jamiu Abiola, son of late Nigerian business mogul, Chief MKO Abiola, has said the forces that annulled the June 12 1993 election and denied his father the opportunity to become Nigeria’s president have descended on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

Abiola’s son, who currently serves as Special Assistant (SA) to the President on Special Duties, said those protesting against hardship and demanding improved lives, were emotional and have not sat down to reflect on Tinubu’s achievements.

Jamiu spoke during an interview on Channels Television’s coverage of the ongoing protest.

The protest is expected to last from August 1st – August 10, with some of the protesters saying they would not stop until the president accedes to their demands.

Abiola’s son said some Nigerians have not got used to the fact that God did not destine them to win the 2023 general election, hence trying to make things difficult for the government in power.

According to him, “There are some people who have sinister motives. The same people that worked against my dad and cancelled his election. Do you think they would want someone who was trying to support my dad to become president and succeed? It’s the same forces that we have now.

“Sometimes for things to get better, it has to get tough. It’s a test and it’s from God. You see, God is testing people and it’s not just in Nigeria. There’s the hand of God in everything.

“A lot of Nigerians are looking at this president like every other president because a lot of them have experienced broken promises in the past. So as far as they are concerned, anything that seems difficult is another broken promise.

“The president we have now is a different kind of president because he believes in democracy, he believes in and loves the common man. He needs to be given time. Those protesting are emotional and have not sat down to think of the president’s achievements since he assumed office.”

Operatives of the Kano Police command have launched a house-to-house search in a bid to recover some of the items stolen during #EndBadGovernance protest in Kano.

Daily Trust had reported how the protest, which started on a peaceful note, was hijacked by suspected hoodlums, who embarked on looting spree.

They raided stores, houses, government establishments, such as the yet to be commissioned office of the Nigerian Communication Commission (NCC), where the carted away furniture, electronic items, among others.

The mob also vandalised street light and other items used to decorate public places.

However, the police, which swung into action and arrested over 400 suspects, recovered some of the items.

Sa’adatu Baba Ahmad, a social media user, had posted updates on how policemen stormed Yakasai and Durumin Zungura areas in Kano Municipal to recover the items.

She wrote, “Since 10:30am, looted items are being recovered from the houses of people who stole properties of the government and innocent people in the name of protest. Up till now, they are there invading the houses.”

At a briefing earlier on Friday, the Kano Police Command had reiterated its commitment to ensure that perpetrators of the mayhem which broke out during the protest are brought to book.

As the nationwide hunger protests entered the second day, human rights lawyer Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa has called on Nigerians to suspend the demonstrations immediately.

Adegboruwa made the plea in a statement on Friday while reacting to the losses recorded during the ongoing demonstrations, stating that it was not the goal of the protests.

He wrote: “I appeal to the protesters to withdraw themselves from their various protest grounds and to suspend the protests immediately and indefinitely, to give room for meaningful dialogue and engagement with the federal government.

“Given that the protests were said to have been hijacked by sponsored agents, it is necessary to avoid further losses and casualties. The organisers and their representatives should embrace dialogue.

“My sincere condolences to the employers and families of the security personnel and also to the protesters, praying to God to comfort them and to grant them the fortitude to bear the irreparable losses.”

He further urged President Bola Tinubu to “directly address the nation and then engage the protesters through their representatives.”

DAILY POST reports that Adegboruwa is one of the lawyers of the Take It Back Movement, one of the groups participating in the ongoing protests.

Adegboruwa had on July 26, 2024, written to the Inspector General of Police, IGP, Kayode Egbetokun on behalf of the group planning the #EndBadGovernance protest to provide police coverage for protesters.

The Borno State government has imposed a 24-hour curfew in response to ongoing nationwide hunger protests and a recent bomb explosion in the State.

The curfew announcement was made by the spokesperson for the State Police Command, Nahum Kenneth Daso, in a statement on Thursday.

The decision comes in the wake of a bomb explosion at a local tea joint in the state earlier on Wednesday.

Reports indicated that the explosion resulted in the deaths of 19 people, although the police have confirmed 16 fatalities. The incident has raised significant security concerns, prompting immediate action from state authorities.

“In view of the constitutional mandate of the Nigeria Police Force and other relevant security and law enforcement agencies toward preservation of law and order in the state, the curfew is deemed necessary,” said Daso. “You are all aware of the incident that took place at Kawori, where an improvised explosive device detonated, leading to the death of 16 persons and causing critical injuries to several others, who are now receiving treatment in various government hospitals in the state.”

The statement emphasised that the curfew was declared in the interest of peace. “In line with our constitutional mandate towards the restoration of law and order, His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Borno State, Prof. Babagana Umar Zulum, in consultation with heads of security in the state, finds it expedient to declare a 24-hour curfew in the state with immediate effect.”

Daso called on the residents of Borno State to remain calm and law-abiding during this period. “Further developments will be communicated to you accordingly,” the statement concluded.

The Arewa Community and Traders in Lagos State have distanced themselves from the proposed national protests.

They urged members not to partake in the ‘sponsored protests by faceless groups and individuals’.

The group said it is against the proposed national protest because ‘we believe we don’t need any national protests against the administration of President Bola Tinubu at the moment, especially when there are a lot of transformations and people-oriented policies being carried out by the administration’.

Leader of the Arewa Community and Traders Alhaji Shehu Usman, while addressing a news conference at the Airport Hotel in Ikeja, said his people are totally against the proposed national protests and will not be part of any plan to cause trouble in Lagos State.

He, therefore, implored all the members of the Arewa community and traders in the state not to take part in the national protests.

“We are fully aware that some politicians and their sponsors, under the guise of protesting against what they claim is hardship in Nigeria, have ganged up to bring down the democratically elected government of Asiwaju Bola Tinubu.

“We are worried and concerned about the plan of these faceless sponsors who are determined to achieve their evil objectives through acts of brigandage and criminality during their proposed #EndBadGovernance protest.

“We recognise the constitutional rights of every Nigerian to protest peacefully, but the drums of war being beaten from various quarters based on the demands of those championing the national protest, targeting Lagos State, the home state of President Bola Tinubu, will not be allowed by the Arewa Community and Traders in Lagos who live in different parts of the state.

“We are not in support of the protest because we believe some fifth columnists, politicians, and those who want to set Nigeria, particularly Lagos, on fire are behind the protests for selfish interests.

“The images left behind after the EndSARS protest of 2020 are fresh in our memories. We don’t want to repeat that bad event where people lost properties worth billions of naira. We don’t want another mass destruction of public and private properties in Lagos State. We don’t want another destruction of public assets in Lagos State, which is the commercial and economic nerve center of Nigeria.

“As Arewa Community and Traders in Lagos State, we say unequivocally that we will stand against any protest against President Bola Tinubu in Lagos State. We are against any protests in Lagos State because we don’t want any destruction. We are in support of peace in Lagos and Nigeria.

“Lagos State has been home to many of us for years, and we will not support any attempt to destroy it in the name of protests by some faceless groups and individuals. We are against the protests, and we want all our members not to participate in the national protests.”

Also speaking, the Arewa Women Leader in Lagos State, Hajiya Fatima Bako, kicked against the protests.

“We are saying no to the national protest because we want peace in Lagos State and Nigeria. We are totally against the protest.”

The President Bola Tinubu administration has implemented positive economic reforms which led to improvement in some key economic areas.

An infographic posted on X by Special Assistant to President Tinubu on Social Media, Dada Olusegun highlighted six parameters that have seen positive changes under President Tinubu.

Here are six positive economic reforms under President Tinubu’s administration:

1. Foreign reserves:

Nigeria’s external reserves increased to $35.77 billion from $33.09 Billion at the end of 2023, data from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) on the country’s external reserves movement has revealed.

The figure released on Thursday signifies a $2.68 billion increase in the country’s external reserves in the past six months.

The data revealed that the country’s foreign reserve crossed the $35.05bn on July 8 to the $35.77 mark on Thursday.

2. Minimum Wage:

President Bola Tinubu on Thursday, July 18, approved N70,000 as the new minimum wage for Nigerian workers.

A significant increase from the 30,000 amount accepted by the federal government, led to the enactment of the National Minimum Wage Act 2019 in March 2019.

3. Debt to Revenue Ratio:

The Nigerian government recorded significant strides in its fiscal management, with a dramatic decline in debt service and a surge in non-oil revenue.

The minister of finance, Wale Edun, disclosed these positive developments during an assessment of the economy’s first-half performance.

According to the minister, the debt service ratio has plummeted from a staggering 97% in June 2023 to a more manageable 68% in 2024.

4. Oil production:

The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has said the country dominates crude oil production in Africa with an output of 1.61mbpd as of July 23, 2024, boasting proven reserves of 37.50 billion barrels and a production capacity of approximately 2.19 million barrels per day (mbpd).

The Commission’s Chief Executive, Engr. Gbenga Komolafe made this known at the House of Representatives Special Committee Two Day Public/Investigative Hearing on Oil Theft/Losses.

5. Forex backlog:

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) on March 20, 2024, cleared the $7 billion foreign exchange (FX) backlog inherited by Governor Yemi Cardoso.

CBN Governor, Olayemi Cardoso said that it decided to settle the $7.5 billion forex backlog owed, to build investor confidence in the domestic economy and build lasting credibility for the country.

6. Ways and Means:

Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun noted that the government is not relying on ways and means of borrowing, which can be inflationary, and has paid back the previous N7.3 trillion obligation within a year of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

Speaking at the newly introduced quarterly media briefing yesterday in Abuja, Edun highlighted that the economy grew faster in the first quarter of 2024 compared to 2023.

According to him, economic activity in the first quarter of 2024 was not only faster than the first quarter of 2023, but it was also the second fastest first-quarter growth in the last six years.

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Vice-President Kashim Shettima has solicited the support of Nigerians for the actualization of the programmes and policies of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, insisting that the President means well for Nigerians.

The Vice President said contrary to speculations in some quarters, President Tinubu is neither anti-north nor anti-Islam, noting that the President has reflected this in appointments to key positions in Federal Government Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs).

Shettima stated this when he received representatives of media practitioners from the northern part of the country on a courtesy visit at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

On the planned nationwide protest, Shettima acknowledged the right of citizens to protest, noting, however, that it has its own demerits that are not pleasant.

“Today, if they say there will be a protest, it will amount to a lot of losses. Protest is the right of the people, but let it be known that historically, it has been hijacked by unscrupulous elements,” the Vice President stressed.

The Vice President said current statistics of appointments into MDAs show President Tinubu’s choice of northerners for key areas such as agriculture, security, communications technology, health and allied services, among other positions in the Federal Government.

Shettima maintained that the present administration has genuine intentions to transform the lives of many in the North through laudable initiatives geared toward addressing the issues confronting the people.

Citing the Resettlement Scheme for Persons Impacted by Conflict (RSPIC) and the creation of the Ministry of Livestock Development as examples, the Vice President said, “President Tinubu means well for the North. Let us disabuse the minds of our people who have been misinformed that the President does not like the North.

“Who was instrumental in signing the Northwest Development Commission bill into law and who created the Ministry of Livestock Development? It is this same President. He gave the approval for the launch of the RSPIC Initiative – a non-kinetic approach to the crisis in the northwest region by building an entire ecosystem for victims of the crisis. These policies will have a direct and positive impact on the northern people.

“I want to reiterate this fact, and I am saying it because I know the President’s disposition towards the north. He is a good and just man. He loves the north and is working for its transformation,” the VP added.

Speaking further about the need for the media to rally around the present administration, the Vice President said that taking to the streets to protest will not guarantee any form of development for the region.

He said, “I am appealing to you to unite and support the development of our region by this present government led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. I am really soliciting your prayers and support for us at this time in the history of our country. This is not the time to protest.

“We in the north need to promote actions and ideals that are critical to the development of our country; we cannot allow things to degenerate.”

He appealed to the media practitioners to mobilize people of the region to leverage all of the opportunities offered by the Federal Government to transform the lives and livelihoods of the people.

The President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, announced on Monday that the new national minimum wage applies to the entire nation.

Akpabio made this remark during the signing ceremony of the Minimum Wage Act (Amendment) Bill into law by President Bola Tinubu at the State House, Abuja.

He stated that the new national minimum wage applies to the Federal Government, state and local governments, the private sector, and even individual employers.

“So, I think this is a great day for the workers in the country. We are not only doubling the minimum wage, but we have also added something on top. Initially, it was N30,000; now it is N70,000.

“Like I said, this is minimum, not maximum. Any employer that has the capacity can pay as much as they want. But no Nigerian worker will offer services and be paid anything less than N70,000 from today.

“That is the implication of this act. It applies all over the nation. And we are excited that this is happening at a time like this through President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, a man who cares for Nigerian workers,” he said.

He mentioned that the entirety of the National Assembly moved quickly and passed the bill in one day out of excitement.

“We felt that this was not something we could delay. So, I think the workers are happy. I want to use this opportunity to call on those who are attempting to foment trouble; you have a right to protest. It is your fundamental right. It is there in the constitution.

“But you don’t have a right to destabilise the country. The right to protest should not be turned into the right to unleash violence. It’s clear that people behind this are very amorphous, very faceless,” said Akpabio.

He asserted that the current hardship experienced by Nigerians was not caused by the Tinubu administration, which is just one year old.

“It is the outcome of years of insecurity. Many people could not go to farms for almost 10 years, and the President has risen to the occasion.

“Every food item that is coming in now will come in without any restrictions; bring in food because Nigerians need to eat. And at the same time, most things are coming in with a lot of waivers.

“So, for me, I’m excited that, yes, indeed, the government is doing what it should. And we, the leaders in the National Assembly, are touching our various constituencies,” he said.
He appealed to the youth not to allow any group to mislead them politically, noting that the destruction of any property would cost Nigeria money.

He mentioned that the bill to finance the new minimum wage had progressed significantly, and he expected it to be signed into law by Wednesday.

The House leader, Prof. Julius Ihonvbere, who represented the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, said the President’s signing into law of the minimum wage bill showed that he cared about the Nigerian people.

“So, I think this movement from N30,000 to N70,000 and reducing the negotiation period from five to three years is a clear demonstration of a commitment to redirect, refocus, and reposition Nigeria for greatness,” he said.

President Tinubu had on July 18 increased the Federal Government’s offer on the national minimum wage from N62,000 to N70,000, with an assurance that it would be reviewed after three years instead of five years.

The Federal Executive Council mandated the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning to prepare a bill to amend the 2024 Budget.

A week later, Tinubu wrote the Senate requesting it to amend the 2024 Appropriation Act and the 2023 Finance Act by increasing the budget by ₦6.2tn.

Tinubu’s letter was addressed to the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, and read at plenary. The President said the move was under Section 58, sub-section two of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 as amended.

The Senate approved the ₦6.2tn amendment to the 2024 Appropriation Act, raising the year’s national budget from ₦28.7tn to ₦35.055tn.

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President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has appealed to protesters to exercise their right to protest peacefully, without resorting to violence and destabilising the country.

Akpabio’s message comes after the signing of the National Minimum Wage Bill into law, which sets the new minimum wage at N70,000.

Addressing protesters, Akpabio warned against allowing themselves to be misled by individuals with political agendas, particularly those who lost out in the 2023 elections, emphasising that the destruction of property would only lead to unnecessary rebuilding costs, diverting funds from development projects.

The Senate president acknowledged the country’s challenges, including years of insecurity, but expressed optimism in the current administration’s efforts to address them.

He highlighted measures to ensure food availability and waivers on imports.

Akpabio urged Nigerian youth to reject anarchy and work towards developing themselves and their communities, rather than engaging in destructive activities.

“I want to use this opportunity to call on those who are attempting to foment trouble that you have a right to protest, it’s your fundamental right, it’s there in the Constitution, but you don’t have a right to destabilize the country. The right to protest should not be turned into a right to unleash violence.

“It’s very clear that people who are… it’s already very amorphous, very faceless. So what it means is that people are preparing to loot and go round and do all sorts of things.

“Where we are today was not caused by one year’s administration, it is the outcome of years of insecurity. Many people could not go to farm for almost 10 years and all that and the President has risen to the occasion.

“Every food item that is coming in now will come in without anything like restriction, there is no restriction, bringing in food because Nigerians need to eat and at the same time, most things are coming in with a lot of waivers.

“So for me, I’m excited that yes, indeed the government is doing what it should and we the leaders in the National Assembly, we are touching our various constituencies. So my appeal to the Nigerian youth does not to allow any group to mislead you politically, people who probably did not have their fortunes in the 2023 election and thinking they can come in through the backdoor. That will amount to anarchy.

“Any destruction of any property will cost money and we don’t have the money. Instead, let’s put the money in developing you and developing your environs instead of going to rebuild”, the Senate president said.

Ex-militant leader, Chief Oweizide Government Ekpemupolo alias Tompolo, has called on Nigerians to shelve the proposed nationwide harship protest, saying things are getting better under President Bola Tinubu.

He said President Tinubu was working hard to revamp the economy with well thought-out policies and programmes, noting that the protest could harm the economy if held.

Tompolo made the call in a statement on Monday made available to Daily TrustTin Delta State.

He said, “I therefore wish to add my voice to that of many well-meaning Nigerians, including our revered traditional rulers, on this call to shelve the proposed hardship protest billed to begin on the 1st of August, 2024.”

While noting that there’s hunger in the country, Tompolo said it was not an excuse for the protest, adding that it did not start under the current government.

He said, “I am aware of Mr. President’s efforts to get things right in the country, and truly things are getting better. For instance, there is great improvement in the oil and gas sector in the last one year, which is still the main source of our economy.

“I am equally aware of the right of the citizenry to protest government policies and programmes in any country. It is one sure way for the citizens to participate effectively in governance, by checking the excesses of any government.

“But protests have also been known to halt progress, when they are ill-timed. When things are beginning to be done right, what is often needed is patience. However, the organizers of this proposed hardship protest must know that the timing is wrong, and the protest may cause more harm than good to the economy and security as security reports have indicated that the protest will be hijacked by unscrupulous elements.


“It is against this background, that I have joined other patriotic Nigerians to appeal to prospective protesters to call off the proposed protest and engage governments at all levels to find lasting solutions to the country’s problems.


“You must agree with me that after every protest it is the dialogue that follows that yield fruits not the protest itself. I may also add that the current threat of protest has actually achieved its aim, as Mr President has said it loud and clear that he has heard the voice of prospective protesters. Let us all engage in dialogue.”

The Federal Government has tightened security across all the nations borders ahead of the planned nationwide protests scheduled for August 1.

Kemi Nandap, Comptroller General, Nigeria Immigration Service, (NIS) said this in a statement issued by the Service Public Relations Officer (SPRO), Kenneth Udo, on Saturday in Abuja.

Nandap directed all Zonal Heads, State Command Comptrollers and Divisional Immigration Officers (DIOS) of the Service across the country to be extra vigilant.

She said officers and men of the service should intensify surveillance in view of the planned protest by some groups.

She also said that the directive was to ensure that foreign elements do not come into the country to participate in the protests.

“In keeping with the responsibility of safeguarding the nation’s gateways placed on the shoulders of the Service, officers especially Heads of Border Commands, are tasked to rise to the occasion.

“This is by ensuring that no foreign element can take advantage of the protest to distabilise the country,” she said.

The NIS CG directed temporary suspension of all leave applications and charges officers to exercise utmost professionalism and patriotism in the discharge of their duties.

This, she said should enduring and after the protest, saying, “Nigeria is the only country we have as our own.”

Nandap assured all Nigerians of the Service’s preparedness to safeguard the nation’s borders towards enhancing national Security.

Vice-President Kashim Shettima has asked Nigerians to prioritize constructive action of how to solve the prevailing challenges in the country, instead of preparing for protest.

The Vice President gave the advice on Friday when he announced the participation in the Grand Challenges Nigeria (GCNg) Project, a global health initiative aimed at combating malnutrition and food insecurity in Nigeria.

Shettima who unveiled the partnership targeted at addressing Nigeria’s pressing nutritional challenges with the Nutrition Society of Nigeria (NSN) during a high-level meeting at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, emphasised the need for constructive action over protest, even as he acknowledged the hardship being faced by Nigerians due to recent economic reforms, particularly the removal of fuel subsidies.

He said: “This is the time for us to solve our problems, not to protest. The right to protest is guaranteed in most democracies around the world, but when you can start the agitation, and you don’t know where it will end, it is a road to anarchy.

“We appreciate what Nigerians are going through, and our heart goes out to them. The oil subsidy has been an albatross on our neck for 50 years. Once the harvests start coming, we believe it will have a positive effect on the common man.

“I wish to call on you to advocate for diplomacy, engagement, and patience. The President is very much committed to the Nigerian project but it’s like a percolation project. When a woman is giving birth, it’s a very painful process but once the child is delivered, it is a cause for celebration.”

As part of the government’s response to the nutritional crisis, Shettima reiterated the government’s commitment to the Nutrition 774 Initiative, explaining that “catalytic initiatives like the Nutrition 774 Initiative are meticulously designed to incentivize positive changes across our communities”.

The GCNg Project, a collaboration with the Nutrition Society of Nigeria, is set to promote diversity, equity and inclusion in addressing public health and food system challenges.

The leader of the NSN delegation, Prof. Hafiz Abubakar, called on the Vice President as Chairman of the Nutrition Council of Nigeria, to spearhead the government’s component of the project and galvanise ministerial support for it.

He said, “We were able to key into the global Grand Challenges project, which is largely funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. We want the government to own this project and identify the partner agency or ministry that will sign the MoU.”

Earlier, Senior Programmes Manager for Grand Challenges Nigeria, Godwin Bamsa, provided context on the initiative’s global impact, noting that since 2003, the Gates Foundation has invested over $1.6 billion in health and innovation projects across 118 countries.

Kayode Egbetokun, inspector-general of police (IGP), says the police have “credible intelligence” that foreign mercenaries are involved in the planned nationwide protest.

Egbetokun spoke in Abuja on Friday at a press conference.

In the past few days, there have been reports of a youth-led planned nationwide protest over the economic hardship in the country.

The planned protest has been slated to commence on August 1.

The federal and state governments, including President Bola Tinubu, have appealed to the youths to shelve the planned protest.

Religious and traditional institutions have equally called for the cancellation of the planned demonstration.

The military and the Department of State Services (DSS) said there are indications that the protest would be hijacked to perpetuate violence.

Egbetokun cautioned that a peaceful protest in the country at the moment may be “ill-timed”.

“We note those who have spoken out against any form of protest at this critical juncture, fearing enemies of our country may be manipulating the process,” the IGP said.

“We confirm that their fears are genuine, as we have credible intelligence of foreign mercenaries’ involvement in this planned protest.

“The Nigeria Police urge Nigerians to exercise caution and think twice before joining any protest group while we alert citizens to the sinister motive of certain groups planning to wreak havoc.

“It has become clear that even a peaceful protest at this time may be ill-timed.

“We issue a strong warning to clandestine groups planning to destabilise the country and hoodlums seeking to exploit the protest for their criminal agenda.”

Egbetokun said the police acknowledged the constitutional right of Nigerians to peaceful assembly, adding that the police will provide security cover during the protest.

“To facilitate an incident-free protest, they (organisers of protest) should please provide the following information: one, proposed protest route and assembly point; two, expected duration of protest; three, names and contact details of protest leaders and organisers; four, measures to prevent hijacking by criminal elements, including key identifiers of possible isolation of potential troublemakers,” he said.

The IGP said the police are ready to work with all Nigerians to promote “peaceful expression and maintain public order”.

President Bola Tinubu has allayed fears of manipulation by any interest group in the ongoing economic reforms, saying his campaign was self-sponsored, without strings, or indebtedness to any individual or institution.

According to a statement issued by Ajuri Ngelale, Special Adviser to the President (Media & Publicity), he made the remark when he received a delegation of Islamic leaders led by Sheikh Bala Lau, at the presidential Villa, Abuja on Thursday.

President Tinubu said his victory at the polls was purely by divine intervention, careful planning, and diligence in getting support from Nigerians.

“I have no cabal. I have no sponsors. The money I spent on the elections was my personal fortune. At some point, the odds were against me; banks were locked. But Allah, the Almighty God, said I will be the President. Mine is to now follow the leading and teaching of the Almighty God.

“One of the most potent elements of defence is a good conscience. It is also a defence against corruption.

“What should be uppermost in our minds is the future of our children. We have a lot to teach them on what it takes to be a good citizen and what it takes to be a responsible citizen,’’ the President stated.

President Tinubu said protests, fuelled by anger and hate, could degenerate into violence and set the country backwards.

“We are reworking the social welfare scheme to reach the ward level, which is the closest to our people. We are going to ensure that we re-establish connection with the wards, again, so that we can give allowances to the poor and the vulnerable.

“The student loans will pay for school fees. There will be monetary support for the education of our children. The consumer credit will support citizens to buy cars and houses, and they can repay gradually.

“We have increased the minimum wage by more than 100 percent,’’ the President said.

President Tinubu said the sponsors of protests place their selfish ambitions above the national interest.

“The sponsors of protests do not love our country. They have no love for the nation. They do not understand citizenship. They have alternative passports.

“They are in different parts of the world holding meetings virtually.

“We do not want to turn Nigeria into Sudan. We are talking about hunger, not burials. We have to be careful. We should be careful with premature politics; politics of hate, and anger.

“The internet has made it possible to hold meetings in artificial settings. They hold meetings and sponsor anger,’’ the President told the religious leaders.

In his remarks, the leader of the delegation, Sheikh Bala Lau, assured the President of support with prayers and more sensitization.

“Peace is paramount for us in the country. The first thing Abraham asked God for was peace and guidance,’’ Sheikh Lau noted.

President Bola Tinubu on Thursday in Abuja emphasized the importance of sustaining democracy, its norms and institutions, noting that protests are an integral part of democracy but that no government will condone demonstrations that lead to the destruction of lives and property.

The President spoke at the Presidential Villa when he received a Letter of Credence from the newly appointed United States Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Richard Mills Jr.

”Our relationship with America is rich. We believe in democracy and freedom. Some of your predecessors worked hard during our transition to democracy, and we remember the likes of Ambassador Howard Jeter.

”We look forward to Nigeria and the United States continuously working to expand cooperation on shared goals and democratic values.

”During the military era, we made our voices heard against dictatorship, and I was part of the group that engaged in peaceful protests without resorting to the destruction of property.

”We have worked hard to ensure 25 years of unbroken democracy and I will continue to maintain this democracy.

”In as much as we believe that demonstrations are part of democracy, we will never encourage any protests that lead to the destruction of lives and property,” the President stated.

Welcoming the U.S. State Department’s acknowledgement of Nigeria’s strategic role on the continent as Africa’s largest democracy, President Tinubu called on the U.S. government to pay more attention to Africa.

”Nigeria is ready to play its role as the largest democracy in Africa that is worthy of emulation to other African countries, but we need more U.S. partnership on the continent that is beneficial to both sides.

”We believe in freedom, and we are providing the leadership to make Nigeria’s economy grow,” the President said.

Ambassador Mills affirmed U.S. support for Nigeria’s democracy and pledged support for bigger roles for Nigeria in the international arena.

”Nigeria is crucial to the United States because we share democratic values, and we are ready to give you all the support.

”I am here to make sure that the relationship blossoms both on democracy and the economic side,” Ambassador Mills said.

The Chairman of the Southeast Governors Forum and Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodinma on Wednesday said it is too early for Nigerians to embark on a nationwide strike against President Bola Tinubu.

Uzodinma warned that the nationwide protest might be hijacked like that of EndSARS because the timing is wrong.

He spoke while addressing State House correspondents after meeting with President Tinubu alongside former senate president, Pius Anyim and his Ebonyi State counterpart Francis Nwifuru at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.

According to Uzodinma: “Democracy is about the opinion of the people and the protest is allowed in a democratic setting. Every protest must be reasonably conceived to be able to make political sense.

“I think it’s too early at this time in the life of this government for anybody to come out to say he wants to protest. First of all, there have not been any engagements where those who are sponsoring the protest were able to tell us the reasons for the protests.

“Secondly, given the global situation today and the insecurity in the country, we have a very fragile political environment that if not managed and protected very well, may collapse the entire country.

“So those who are going to protest; what is the reason for the protests? And if they have no reason for the protests, I think I’ll advise well-meaning Nigerians, citizens of this country who are making sacrifices, some of us have paid the supreme price for the existence of this country, we should guide our country very jealously.

“I think it is wrong time for anybody to do any protests, because the implication of doing that if care is not taken, is that it may be hijacked. Like the ENDSARS experience, where criminals now hijacked an innocently conceived agitation by young Nigerians.

“So this is another kind of temptation that I think those behind the protests have not been able to come out openly to say they’re behind it.”

Governors from the 36 states of the federation are currently meeting in the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Abuja.

The governors, under the aegis of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, are meeting at the NGF secretariat in the nation’s capital.

According to Channels TV, some of the governors started arriving at the meeting venue at about 8 pm on Wednesday.

Governors Lawal Dauda of Zamfara, Bala Mohammed of Bauchi, Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau, Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta, and Alex Otti of Abia States are already on ground.

This is as the governors of Enugu, Peter Mbah and Borno States, Babagana Zulum, sent their deputies to represent them.

The agenda of the meeting is currently not made public.

However, it may not be unconnected to the planned nationwide protests scheduled for August 1 to 10.

DAILY POST recalls that the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, SGF, George Akume and the National Security Adviser, NSA, Nuhu Ribadu, had earlier met with ministers over the planned protest.

The All Progressives Congress, on Wednesday, called on parents to watch the movement of their children to prevent them from being recruited for violence ahead of the nationwide planned protest.

The warning comes in the wake of Tuesday’s threat by the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, that security operatives wouldn’t hesitate to make arrests if the planned protest turns violent.

The protest, scheduled to run from August 1 to 10, has continued to generate tension and elicit mixed reactions from Nigerians.

Several groups who indicated interest in championing the campaign said the call for protest was provoked by the soaring cost of living and economic hardship in the country.

Addressing newsmen after its 153rd National Working Committee meeting, the National Secretary of APC, Senator Ajibola Basiru, announced that the ruling party has joined the President to appeal to those planning protests to shelve their plans and have confidence that the Federal Government would address most of the economic challenges facing the nation.

Basiru also urged Nigerians to monitor the movement of their children to ensure they are not caught on the wrong arm of the law.

He said, “We noted that since coming on board in 2023, the government met quite several challenges, especially economic challenges, and Mr President is gradually implementing programmes and policies that would in the nearest future bring succour and relief to the citizens.

“The NWC noted that some issues highlighted by the protestants are political, while others are constitutional matters that can only be addressed through the amendment of the constitution, which is ongoing at the National Assembly.

“We, therefore, urge all those planning the protests to have confidence in Mr President’s unrelentless efforts at repositioning the economy, while assuring Nigerians that the challenges will sooner or later come to pass.

“The meeting urged parents and well-meaning Nigerians to monitor the movement of their children/wards so that they will not be used in causing chaos in the country.”

Continuing, the national secretary added that an emergency meeting of all Chairmen of the APC in the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory has been called for ‘further discussions.’

Although he did not specify the date, PUNCH Online gathered that the state party leaders would meet with the leadership of the APC at the secretariat on Friday.

This was also confirmed by the National Deputy Organising Secretary, Nze Chidi Duru, in an exclusive phone call with our reporter.

Duru, however, confided that the protest was not the sole reason for the meeting.

“Yes, the meeting is scheduled for Friday. That issue (protest), of course, and the State of the Nation,” he said.

Vice President Kashim Shettima has said Nigeria is not just catching up with the rest of the world but is also poised to overtake them in terms of economy and technology.

He made the declaration on Tuesday when he launched the AI Expertise Blockchain and Technology Training and Outsourcing Initiative in Dutse, the Jigawa State, as part of Nigeria’s strategy for digital transformation and leadership in Africa.

The AI Expertise Blockchain and Technology Training and Outsourcing Initiative, a partnership with tech company Gluwa, aims to train 1,000 Nigerians annually in artificial intelligence, blockchain, and other cutting-edge technologies.

Speaking during the launch of the Initiative at the Yakubu Gowon NYSC Orientation Camp, Fanisau, Dutse, VP Shettima called on Nigerian youths to embrace the initiative, which he said is important for the nation’s economic future.

“We are not merely catching up with the rest of the world; we are poised to overtake them. This initiative offers its beneficiaries the chance to become part of a global workforce, driving innovation that will shape our future,” he said.

The Vice President noted Jigawa State’s pioneering role in digital technology adoption, calling the programme “a homecoming ceremony for those who have eased our journey through the Fourth Industrial Revolution.”

He also outlined the federal government’s broader vision, saying, “We are adopting this initiative across the nation to create a network of tech hubs that will power Nigeria’s economic growth for decades to come.”

Shettima commended the partnership with Gluwa, stating that it aligns with President Tinubu’s agenda to revolutionize Nigeria’s digital technology sphere.

He acknowledged Gluwa’s significant impact, even as he applauded the firm for its empowerment of Aella Microfinance Bank, resulting in the disbursement of over N100 billion to two million Nigerians.

Addressing the global implications of the Initiative, Shettima said, “Our aspiration remains to transform Nigeria into a premier destination for technology outsourcing, creating a model that combines global expertise with local talent.”

Earlier, Jigawa State Governor, Malam Umar Namadi, noted the importance of the initiative, describing it as a rare opportunity at the doorstep of the youths.

He called on the population to “venture into the Digital World of ICT Outsourcing and reap all the benefits that it offers, particularly in terms of job creation and opportunities to contribute to the growth of our economy.”

Explaining that Jigawa has a history with ICT education, Governor Namadi said, “The State is blessed with hundreds of thousands of ICT-savvy and qualified youths in various fields of information and communication technology. This is courtesy of our very reputable Informatics Institute established more than two decades ago.”

He said the new initiative aligns with both the federal government’s Renewed Hope Agenda and Jigawa State’s 12-Point Agenda, prioritizing digital technologies and innovation.

Governor Namadi further announced the establishment of a new ICT & Digital Economy Agency, saying, “More than ever before, we are determined to reposition Jigawa State as a major ICT hub in Nigeria.”

According to a statement by his spokesman, Stanley Nkwocha,

Shettima also launched the 4th edition of the Expanded National Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) Clinic in Jigawa State capital, disclosing that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered that a grant of N150,000 should be given to each of the business owners in the state as the federal government’s support to MSMEs across the country.

He noted that the N150,000 grant is an outright grant that does not require beneficiaries to repay.

Vice President Shettima said the N150,000 grant for each of the MSMEs as directed by the President was an outright grant that does not require beneficiaries to repay.

“Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, I am pleased to announce that His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has mandated that a grant of N150,000 each be awarded to outstanding exhibiting MSMEs at today’s event. Rest assured that this is an outright grant, and the beneficiaries will not need to repay it,” the VP declared.

The Expanded National MSME Clinics is one of the federal government’s strategies for ease of doing business in Nigeria through a series of business forums organized across the country to provide on-the-spot solutions to challenges confronting MSMEs, with the first, second, and third editions launched in Benue, Ogun, and Ekiti States respectively earlier this year.

Speaking during the launch of the MSMEs Clinic on Tuesday in Dutse, Senator Shettima said, that as the very foundation of the nation’s economy, the MSMEs sub-sector has remained a top priority of the Tinubu administration, noting that they not only represent 96 percent of all businesses in Nigeria and contribute over 45 percent to its GDP but also provide a crucial lifeline to 80 percent of the nation’s workforce.

“We recognize your essence, and that’s why we are establishing MSME clinics across the nation. These clinics will act as incubators for small businesses and offer alternative financing. They will also ensure that you have the support and resources you need to compete and thrive,” he added.

Noting that the prosperity of small businesses is the prosperity of Nigeria and their downturn is the downturn of Nigeria, Shettima urged the business owners not to harbor any fear, saying the Tinubu administration will not rest until each of them is in a vantage position to access the support and capital made available for them.

Earlier in his remarks, Jigawa State Governor, Malam Umar Namadi, thanked the Federal Government for providing dividends of democracy for the people of the state through the MSME Clinics and related projects scattered across the area.

Governor Namadi urged existing and aspiring small business owners in the state to take advantage of services provided through the Clinics, describing the initiative as a rare opportunity for operators in the sector in the state.

He said the state government is aligning with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda through the ‘Greater Jigawa’ initiative that provides social protection services and projects for the people.

The high point of the event at the Mallam Aminu Kano Triangle was the inspection of exhibition pavilions by MSMEs in the State and the commissioning of the Jigawa Retail Empowerment Shops.

Earlier on arrival in Dutse, the vice president, proceeded to the Sumore Farm in Madobi where he commissioned the 10-Hectare, Solar-powered irrigation farm.

He commissioned the 1,435 J-AGRO Agricultural Extension Agents and the distribution of agricultural inputs under the NG CARES Fadama Programme, benefiting over 26,000 individuals, with 30 percent being women.

Shettima also flagged off the Palliative Shop initiative at Yalwawa before proceeding to the Dutse Ultra Modern market where he commissioned a 120KVA Solar Plant.

He said the solar unit is to ensure “that the entire market receives a minimum of eight hours of electricity per day during market hours.”

The Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Communications and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, has reacted to the threat by Peter Obi, the former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, to institute a lawsuit against him.

DAILY POST recalls that Onanuga recently alleged that Obi and his supporters were responsible for the planned nationwide protests against the Tinubu-led government over the hardship in the country.

But Obi, in a letter signed by his lawyer, Alex Ejesieme, to Onanuga, urged the presidential spokesman to retract the statement and tender an unreserved apology to him within 72 hours.

Obi also demanded N5 billion in damages from Onanuga over the said allegation.

Reacting, Onanuga, in a fresh post on his official X handle on Tuesday, said: “I am still waiting for the letter from Peter Obi’s lawyer threatening a N5 billion suit and demanding an apology to Peter Obi over the planned ‘revolution’.

“Let me just tell Obi and his lawyer: I am not afraid of any legal action. We shall meet in court.”