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Politics › You’re Not Forgotten, Abandoned, Tinubu Tells Abducted Borno, Oyo Schoolchildren by Ecstasy154(op): 6:24pm On May 27

President Bola Tinubu has assured abducted schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State and Borno State that they have not been forgotten, pledging that his administration will intensify efforts to secure their safe return from captivity.

The President gave the assurance in a personally signed statement dated May 27, 2026, to commemorate Children’s Day, amid growing concern over recent attacks on schools in parts of the country.

Tinubu, in his Children’s Day message, acknowledged the anguish of affected families, especially as the celebration coincides with the Eid-el-Kabir festivities.

“As we mark this special day, which coincides with Eid-el-Kabir, some Nigerian children and their teachers in Oyo and Borno should be with their families, but are being held captive by criminals. Some children have been forced into fear. Some parents cannot join today’s celebration because their hearts are set on one prayer: ‘Bring our children home.’

“To those children, their parents, and their teachers, I say this as a father and your President: you are not forgotten. You are not abandoned,” the President said.

“To the families grieving and despondent, your government will not turn your pain into ceremony. We will continue to work until children taken from their homes, schools, and communities are returned safely, and until those who profit from this cruelty are brought to justice,” he added.

The President disclosed that he had directed all relevant security agencies to sustain and intensify coordinated rescue operations for abducted children and other vulnerable citizens across the country.

According to him, the operations must be intelligence-led, carefully executed, and focused on the safe recovery of victims.

“I have also directed the strengthening of school protection measures in high-risk areas. This will include updated school vulnerability mapping, closer coordination between state governments and security commands, rapid response links between schools and local security units, and stronger community-based early warning systems,” Tinubu said.

The President noted that the theme for this year’s Children’s Day celebration, “Future Now: Promoting Inclusion for Every Nigerian Child,” speaks directly to the nation’s conscience and responsibility toward its younger population.

“On this Children’s Day, I celebrate every Nigerian child. I celebrate the child who is excelling in school. I celebrate the child who is learning a trade. I celebrate the child living with disability and still pressing forward with courage. I celebrate the child who has lost much but has not lost hope.

“Today belongs to you. It is a day to celebrate your innocence, your strength, your creativity, your aspirations, and the immeasurable value you bring to our nation. You are the pride of our Republic, the custodians of tomorrow’s promise, and the living reminder that we can shape the future of Nigeria by the opportunities we create for our children today,” Tinubu stated.

He added that the Federal Ministry of Education, in collaboration with state governments, would deepen implementation of the Safe Schools framework to ensure better emergency preparedness in vulnerable communities.

The President stressed that schools in high-risk areas must have clear response protocols and direct communication links with security agencies.

“We will also improve support for children who have survived abduction, violence, and displacement. Rescue is not the end of the government’s duty. A child who returns from trauma must return to care, medical attention, counselling, education, and dignity.

“I have directed the relevant ministries and agencies to ensure that recovered children receive proper reintegration support, not temporary attention.

“Let me also state that protecting children cannot be left solely to the government. Parents, teachers, traditional rulers, religious leaders, community leaders, youth groups, transport unions, local vigilantes, and the media all have a role to play,” he stated.

“When a community sees strange movement around a school and keeps quiet, a child is placed at risk. When warning signs are ignored, families suffer. When information is shared quickly and responsibly, lives can be saved.

“This is why we will continue to strengthen the link between communities and security agencies. The fight to protect children must begin before an attack happens, not after one has already occurred,” he added.

Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ensuring that every Nigerian child has access to education, healthcare, nutrition, safety, and opportunities for a better future.

“My administration remains committed to a Nigeria where every child can learn safely, grow in good health, eat well, access opportunity, and dream without fear. We are investing in education, health care, nutrition, social protection, digital skills, and safer communities because childhood must not be a privilege reserved for a few. It is the right of every Nigerian child.

“To our children, you matter—your dreams matter; your safety matters. Your education matters. Be assured that your future matters to this government and to this nation, and we will safeguard it,” the President added.

Recent attacks on schools in Oyo and Borno states have heightened concerns over the safety of pupils and teachers across Nigeria, following the abduction of dozens of pupils and workers by suspected terrorists.

In Oyo State, armed attackers on May 15, 2026, invaded Community High School, Ahoro-Esinele, and abducted a school principal, teachers, and dozens of pupils.

One teacher was shot dead, while reports later emerged that another abducted teacher was beheaded by the kidnappers.

The attack sparked protests among teachers in Ogbomoso and renewed calls for stronger security around schools.

In Borno State, more than 40 pupils and students were reportedly abducted by armed bandits from Mussa Primary School and Junior Day Secondary School in Askira-Uba Local Government Area during a separate attack on the same day.

The incident further deepened fears of a resurgence of mass school abductions in the North-East, where schools have repeatedly been targeted by insurgents and armed groups over the years.

Reacting to the incidents, the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) described the attacks as “barbaric and inhuman,” warning that continued assaults on schools could force teachers nationwide to withdraw their services.

The union also said the attacks had created fear, panic, and emotional trauma among teachers, pupils, parents, and affected communities.

https://www.channelstv.com/2026/05/27/youre-not-forgotten-abandoned-tinubu-tells-abducted-borno-oyo-schoolchildren/

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Politics › Re: Harsh Economic Reforms Necessary, Nigerians Should Make Sacrifices: Shettima by Ecstasy154(m): 6:19pm On May 27

I'm still waiting for what these people will use to campaign to convince people to vote for them again.

European Football (EPL, UEFA, La Liga) › Xabi Alonso Appointed Chelsea Manager On Four-year Deal by Ecstasy154(op): 10:30am On May 17

Spanish coach Xabi Alonso gestures on the touchline during the Spanish league football match between Real Madrid CF and RCD Espanyol at the Santiago Bernabeu stadium in Madrid on September 20, 2025.

Chelsea appointed Xabi Alonso as the club’s manager on Sunday on a four-year deal, with the Spaniard the latest coach tasked with turning around the club’s fortunes.

The Blues lost the FA Cup final to Manchester City on Saturday and lie ninth in the Premier League with two games of the campaign to go.

Alonso rose to prominence as one of Europe’s brightest coaches by guiding Bayer Leverkusen to an unbeaten German league and cup double in the 2023/24 season.

However, he lasted just seven months in the Real Madrid hotseat. Appointed last year, he departed the Spanish giants in January.

“Chelsea Football Club is delighted to announce the appointment of Xabi Alonso as manager of the men’s team,” Chelsea said in a statement.

“The Spaniard will begin his role on July 1, 2026, having agreed a four-year contract at Stamford Bridge.”

Alonso faces a huge task to get Chelsea back in the running for major honours.

Chelsea did win the World Club Cup and the UEFA Conference League last year but have little else to show for well over one billion pounds ($1.35 billion) of spending on players since as US consortium BlueCo took over in 2022 following Roman Abramovich’s trophy-laden ownership of the club.

Defeat at Wembley on Saturday means they have now gone eight seasons without a domestic trophy.

Fans have continuously protested against BlueCo, who have embarked on a scattergun approach to hoovering up young talent from across the globe.

That policy has secured some notable successes such as England international Cole Palmer.

But a lack of experience in both the playing squad and, often in the coaching staff, has been blamed for a lack of consistency.

Alonso becomes the sixth permanent manager to take charge at Stamford Bridge in the past four years after Thomas Tuchel, Graham Potter, Mauricio Pochettino, Enzo Maresca and Liam Rosenior.

The 44-year-old has a point to prove after a turbulent short spell in Madrid.

Alonso’s arrival is a coup for Chelsea’s much-criticised owners.

Many Liverpool fans were desperate for him to return to Anfield, where he starred for five years as a player between 2004 and 2009, to succeed the under-fire Arne Slot.

https://www.channelstv.com/2026/05/17/xabi-alonso-appointed-chelsea-manager-on-four-year-deal/

Foreign Affairs › You Speak Excellent English’ — Kenyan President Ruto Apologises To Nigerians by Ecstasy154(op): 4:19pm On Apr 28

Kenyan President William Ruto says his remarks on the brand of English spoken in Nigeria were misrepresented and taken out of context.

Ruto had faced backlash after saying Nigerian English was inferior to that of his homeland.

“Kenyans, you know our education is good, our English is good. We speak some of the best English in the world… that is true,” he had said.

“If you listen to a Nigerian speaking, you don’t know what they are saying — you need a translator even when they’re speaking English.”

However, speaking recently at the Kenyan mining investment conference — with Dele Alake, Nigeria’s minister of solid minerals, in attendance — Ruto walked back his earlier comments on the subject.

He added that he was only highlighting the strong command of the language across African countries, including Nigeria.

“I was captured speaking to my fellow citizens somewhere. It was supposed to be a private conversation, but somebody decided that it should be public. But they also misrepresented the facts,” he said.

“The facts are that I was talking about how we in Africa speak very good English. All of us.”

He added that Nigeria, in particular, has a high standard of English, arguing that differences in usage and accent may require adjustments for mutual understanding.

“In some countries like Nigeria, if you don’t speak excellent English, like the one we speak in Kenya, you may need a translator to understand the excellent English of Nigeria,” he said, amid laughter from the audience.

Addressing Alake and the rest of the Nigerian delegation in the hall, Ruto said lightheartedly: “Please pass my regards to President Bola Tinubu, my friend, and to the great people of Nigeria, who are my in-laws.

“My in-laws, I hope there will be no consequences for whatever was done.”

Ruto’s daughter, June Ruto, is married to a Nigerian national, Alexander Ezenagu.

https://www.thecable.ng/you-speak-excellent-english-kenyan-president-ruto-apologises-to-nigerians/

Politics › Bodija Explosion: FG's ₦30bn untouched, ₦20bn yet to be paid - Oyo Govt by Ecstasy154(op): 6:23pm On Jan 01

OYO STATE GOVERNMENT

PRESS STATEMENT ON FEDERAL GOVERNMENT INTERVENTION FUND FOLLOWING THE BODIJA, IBADAN EXPLOSION OF JANUARY 16, 2024

Background

Following the unfortunate explosion that occurred on January 16, 2024, in the Bodija area of Ibadan, and being aware that intervention funds exist at the federal level for states facing emergencies, His Excellency, the Governor of Oyo State, Engineer Seyi Makinde, formally wrote to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, requesting approval for financial support to assist the state in managing the disaster.

The request

In the letter dated January 19, 2024, Governor Makinde outlined the immediate steps already taken by the Oyo State Government to mitigate the impact of the explosion. These measures included the deployment of earth-moving equipment to aid search-and-rescue efforts; the hospitalisation of injured victims with all medical bills fully covered by the state government; the deployment of ambulances and medical personnel to the scene; and the provision of accommodation for displaced victims in hotels at the expense of the state government.

The Governor then highlighted additional areas where federal assistance was required. These included: clearing of rubble and debris as part of continued search and rescue operations; immediate integrity tests on buildings within the affected axis and demolition of unsafe structures; compensation for owners of affected properties; reconstruction of Old Bodija and its environs; expansion of the emergency response hub; environmental impact assessment; logistics support and reimbursement; and infrastructural development required to restore normalcy to Bodija and surrounding communities after the massive destruction.

To address these needs, the Oyo State Government estimated the cost of intervention at N100 billion and requested the President’s approval for that amount.

The president, however, approved N50 billion— half of the requested sum.

Purpose of the approval

The purpose of the approved fund was clearly stated by the Federal Government as “Support for the reconstruction of Old Bodija and environs after the Bodija explosion.” (See memo dated 29 August, 2024, from the Accountant General of the Federation to the Minister of Finance, released by the political agent of the Federal Government, Mr. Ayo Fayose).

Special account for the money

Following the approval, an Oyo State Government Infrastructure Support Account (No. 2045199879) was opened with First Bank of Nigeria for the intervention fund.

Out of the approved ₦50 billion, the Federal Government, through the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), released ₦30 billion to Oyo State on November 4, 2024.

Where is the money?

As of December 31, 2025, the N30 billion remains untouched in the Oyo State infrastructure account with the First Bank. Interested members of the public may verify this information with the bank.

The Oyo State Government has deliberately refrained from utilising the N30 billion already released in recognition of the fact that the remaining N20 billion has remained withheld by the relevant federal agencies for reasons that have not been communicated to the state.

Given the disgraceful drama of the last couple of days from the Federal Government on the approval, the government of Oyo State is convinced on the wisdom of its decision to 'wait and see' before deciding what to do with the money.

The ₦20 billion balance

Almost two years after the disaster, the Federal Government is yet to release the outstanding balance of ₦20 billion from the approved sum of ₦50 billion.

The Oyo State Government remains committed to securing the balance of the approved funds to comprehensively address the damage caused by the explosion to both public and private properties. This is particularly important given the scale of the challenges faced by the state and the victims, many of whom have already been supported within the financial capacity of the state government.

Expenditure on Bodija

Following the explosion, Nigerians are aware of the swift and sustained efforts of the Oyo State Government, which significantly mitigated the effects of the disaster. The state government did not wait for federal intervention, which came in November, 2024, almost a year after the incident.

As of January 1, 2026, the Oyo State Government has spent N24.6 billion from its own resources on Bodija and its environs in direct response to the explosion and its consequences. This includes N20.141 billion spent on the reconstruction of infrastructure in Bodija and surrounding areas, as well as N4.085 billion paid as support and compensation to victims of the explosion. These expenditures were fully borne by the Oyo State Government.

Intervention Funds Nationwide

Documents released by the Federal Government through its agent, Mr Ayo Fayose, indicate that a total of N915.5 billion was approved as intervention funds for states across the country. The list of beneficiary states shows that one South-West state received ₦150 billion, while another received ₦50 billion. Oyo State, despite experiencing one of the most devastating incidents, received one of the lowest allocations among beneficiary states. Interested members of the public may consult the list for verification.

Disclosure of Funds

Special intervention funds, when released, are received as capital grants. In line with standard practice and legal requirements, such funds are subjected to the budgeting process before expenditure and are duly reflected in the financial statements of the state. They do not require special public announcements upon receipt. This explains why other states that received significantly larger amounts did not publicly advertise the receipt of such funds.

Conclusion

The Oyo State Government, under the leadership of His Excellency, Engineer Seyi Makinde, appreciates the continued support and understanding of the people of the state. The government particularly thanks the people for their discernment in seeing through attempts by desperate political actors to exploit the 2024 tragic events of Bodija to gain undeserved foothold in our state for personal and political gains.

The Oyo State Government has nothing to hide and will continue to engage the public transparently on all issues, including this one.

Governor Makinde remains committed to serving the people of Oyo State faithfully, truthfully, and with utmost respect for the social contract that binds government to the governed. He has never denied anyone what is legally due to them and will not do so.

The Governor and the Government of Oyo State wish the people a happy, peaceful, and prosperous 2026.

Signed:

Professor Musibau Babatunde Prince Dotun Oyelade
Hon. Commisioner for Budget and Economic Planning Hon. Commisioner for Information

For: Oyo State Government

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Politics › PDP Leadership Crisis: INEC Chair Amupitan Meets Turaki, Anyanwu-led Groups by Ecstasy154(op): 2:11pm On Dec 19, 2025

The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Joash Amupitan, is holding a meeting with the leadership of the two groups of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

The meeting, which is being held at the INEC headquarters in Abuja, is at the instance of the INEC chairman ahead of the FCT area council elections and those of Osun and Ekiti states scheduled for next year.

The meeting is attended by the Tanimu Turaki-led national working committee and that of Samuel Anyanwu.

After the opening remarks of the Amupitan, who stated that the meeting was to try to understand why the commission was receiving correspondence from two groups claiming leadership of the PDP, journalists were asked to excuse themselves.

More to follow…

https://www.channelstv.com/2025/12/19/pdp-leadership-crisis-inec-chair-amupitan-meets-turaki-anyanwu-led-groups/

Politics › Expect Further Reduction In Petrol Prices, Dangote Assures Nigerians by Ecstasy154(op): 2:04pm On Dec 16, 2025

President of Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, has vowed to further slash prices of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) or petrol nationwide.

The promise is coming less than 24 hours after the entrepreneur announced an imminent reduction in petrol prices.

A Monday statement by the company said MRS, which operates over 2,000 filling stations nationwide, has begun selling petrol at ₦739 per litre in Lagos, down from ₦885, bringing immediate relief to commuters and businesses.

“Pump price of PMS would decline further”, the statement quoted the entrepreneur, adding that petrol would sell at no more than ₦740 per litre from Tuesday, starting in Lagos.

“From Tuesday, all MRS stations will sell PMS at prices not exceeding N740 per litre, beginning in Lagos,” Dangote said.

He also announced that the Dangote Petroleum Refinery had reduced its minimum purchase requirement from two million litres to 500,000 litres, a move designed to enable more marketers, including members of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), to participate in product offtake.

“So if you come to the refinery today, you will get PMS at N699 per litre,” he stated.

Dangote maintained that Nigerians would be the ultimate beneficiaries of domestic refining as the refinery was working around the clock to ensure that recent reductions in gantry prices were fully reflected at the retail level.

He further highlighted quality differences between locally refined fuel and imported products, noting that PMS supplied through MRS and other refinery offtakers are straight-run fuels, unlike blended products imported from overseas markets.

“Nigerians have a choice: to buy better-quality fuel at a more affordable price, or to buy blended PMS at a higher rate. Importers can continue to lose, as long as Nigerians benefit, I am happy,” Dangote said.

He disclosed that despite challenges, including resistance from vested interests, the refinery would deploy its fleet of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) trucks in the coming days and was prepared to procure additional units beyond the existing 4,000 trucks to sustain affordable nationwide distribution.

Responding to concerns by some oil importers that the price reductions would lead to losses, Dangote said the refinery was established primarily to serve Nigerians.

“Anyone who chooses to continue importing despite the availability of locally refined products should be prepared to face the consequences,” he said.

Dangote also reiterated his resolve to protect the refinery, describing it as a strategic national asset.

“A business of this magnitude must not be allowed to fail,” he said. “If they want to import fuel, let them continue. We will meet in the market. If 4,000 CNG trucks are not enough, we will buy another 4,000. This is a logistics business.”

https://www.channelstv.com/2025/12/16/expect-further-reduction-in-petrol-prices-dangote-assures-nigerians/

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Politics › FG Declares End Of Fuel, FX Subsidies by Ecstasy154(op): 10:27pm On Oct 17, 2024

The federal government has officially announced the termination of fuel and foreign exchange subsidies, marking the end of a long-debated policy.

Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, made this declaration during the presentation of the Nigeria Development Update by the World Bank in Abuja on Thursday, October 17.

Edun revealed that these subsidies had drained the country’s economy, costing over N10 trillion, which amounts to five percent of Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

“Fuel and FX subsidy are extinguished,” Edun said, as he emphasized the financial strain these policies had imposed on the nation.

The minister also announced a new government plan aimed at addressing unemployment, with a focus on housing finance.

This initiative, he explained, would feature a mortgage scheme offering near single-digit interest rates.

The government expects this approach to boost construction activities and generate significant job creation.

“The plan will be anchored around mortgage and housing financing,” Edun stated.

At the same event, the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Olayemi Cardoso, explained the rationale behind the recent half-percent interest rate hike.

He disclosed that the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) had anticipated the latest inflation trends, which drove their decision to increase the rate.

“Policies and decisions will be based on evidence and data going forward,” Cardoso affirmed, underscoring the CBN’s commitment to data-driven policy formulation.

Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, also participated in the discussion. He expressed concern over the insufficient funds allocated to state governments through the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC).

“The money coming from FAAC every month is not enough for state governments to provide infrastructure,” he lamented.

Mohammed criticized federal policies, noting that they had reduced the purchasing power of Nigerians. “These policies are not working,” he declared, pointing to the hardship being felt by the masses.

Regarding the implementation of the new N70,000 minimum wage, Governor Mohammed acknowledged the challenges states face.

“Some states can afford N70,000, some cannot. We in Bauchi State are paying the old minimum wage religiously. We’re looking at paying the new minimum wage as soon as possible,” he added.

He voiced concerns that while states are loyal to the wage law, the ability to fund essential infrastructure after meeting the new wage obligation remains a serious challenge. “We are about to be lynched,” he said, noting the pressure on state governments.

From the private sector, Amal Hassan, CEO of Outsource Global Limited, urged the federal government to create a more attractive environment for investors.

“The government must de-risk the economy to make it easy for investors to come in,” she said, adding that despite Nigeria’s negative global image, the country’s talent pool continues to attract attention from international businesses.

World Bank Senior Vice President and Chief Economist, Indermit Gill, wrapped up the discussion by calling on Nigeria’s economic units, Monetary, Fiscal, and other units, to collaborate more effectively.

He emphasised the need for unified efforts to drive economic reforms and growth.

https://thenationonlineng.net/fg-declares-end-of-fuel-fx-subsidies/

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Politics › Petrol Now Sells For ₦‎1,350 Per Litre In Osun by Ecstasy154(op): 7:04am On Oct 10, 2024

Following Wednesday’s increase in the pump price of petrol by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC), petrol station owners in Osun State have jerked up their prices to N1,350 and N1,400 per litre.

Checks across Osogbo, Osun State capital, showed that independent marketers have adjusted their petrol dispensing facilities to reflect the new price regime.

Our correspondent, who monitored the situation in Ogo Oluwa, Ayetoro, Igbona, Estate and Lameco areas discovered that motorists were buying the product at N1,350 and N1,400 depending on the selling prices at different filling stations.

Before the latest increase in the price of the product, independent marketers were selling a litre for N1,100 and N1,200, while the two NNPCL stations located in Abere and Lameco were selling a litre to motorists at N865.

Some of the motorists and commercial bus drivers who spoke to our correspondent lamented the increase in the price of petrol, expressing fear that the development may further worsen the hardship being faced by Nigerians.

A commercial bus driver, Habeeb Moradeyo, said that “this latest increase in the price of petrol by the government is unjustifiable bearing in the current economic crisis occasioned by the removal of fuel subsidy in May by President Bola Tinubu.”

Moradeyo, who spoke in Yoruba language added: “This is wickedness on the part of our leaders. You can imagine how this increase in the price of petrol will affect the prices of goods, commodities and transport fares. How do they want us to maximise profit? It was really hard before because we spent a large chunk of our (profit) on petrol. Now they increased the price again.”

Another motorist, Segun Akinduro, called on the government to reverse the price increase in the interest of the masses, stressing that “Nigerians are barely struggling to survive amid the current economic hardship. This is like compounding the burden of the people.”

An upward review of petrol pricing became effective at the retail stations of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC Retail) and other independent outlets on Wednesday.

The recent development comes after the NNPC decided to terminate its exclusive purchase agreement with Dangote Refinery.

Earlier on Monday, this newspaper exclusively reported that the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) is ending its exclusive purchase agreement with Dangote Refinery, opening up the market for other marketers to buy petrol directly from the refinery.

https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/743622-petrol-now-sells-for-n1350-per-litre-in-osun.html

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Properties › Eid-el-kabir: FG Declares Monday 17, Tuesday 18, Public Holidays by Ecstasy154(op): 5:00pm On Jun 14, 2024

The federal government has declared Monday 17, and Tuesday 18 June, as public holidays to mark this year’s Eid-ul-Adha (Sallah) celebration.

The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo made the declaration on Friday, June 14, on behalf of the federal government.

Tunji-Ojo congratulated all Muslim Ummah both at home and in the Diaspora on this occasion.

https://thenationonlineng.net/breaking-eid-el-kabir-fg-declares-monday-17-tuesday-18-public-holidays/

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Politics › FG Names Abuja Expressway After Chinua Achebe by Ecstasy154(op): 3:38pm On Jun 08, 2024

President Bola Tinubu has approved the naming of the M18 road infrastructure in Guzape District, Abuja after renowned novelist, Chinua Achebe.

The President stated this during his address at the inauguration of the road in Abuja on Saturday, June 8.

This was contained in a post by Special Assistant to President Tinubu on Social Media, Olusegun Dada.

He wrote: “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu Commissions the M18 road infrastructure in Guzape District of Abuja. Names road after Nigerian Novelist and Poet, late Professor Chinua Achebe.”

https://thenationonlineng.net/breaking-tinubu-names-abuja-expressway-after-chinua-achebe/

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Politics › Uzodimma Appoints Self Commissioner For Lands In Imo by Ecstasy154(op): 3:40pm On Apr 30, 2024

Imo state Governor, Hope Uzodimma has appointed himself as the commissioner for lands in the state.

The unexpected announcement was made by the governor on Tuesday, April 30, during the inauguration of 24 newly appointed commissioners at the Government House in Owerri.

According to him, the self-appointment is a measure to prevent a repeat of past incidents.

He cited the example of a previous commissioner who was embroiled in controversial land deals towards the end of his first tenure.

https://thenationonlineng.net/just-in-uzodimma-appoints-self-commissioner-for-lands-in-imo/

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Politics › Gunmen Kill Alaba Abbey (Governor Aiyedatiwa’s Campaign Coordinator) by Ecstasy154(op): 6:08pm On Apr 28, 2024

The campaign coordinator of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa in Supare, Akoko South West Local Government Area of Ondo state, Alaba Abbey, has been shot dead.

Late Abbey was shot dead on Saturday evening at his residence in Supare.

He was the Returning Officer for the recently concluded All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primary election in Ondo state.

Abbey was also the ward coordinator for the Lucky Aiyedatiwa Campaign Organization Foot-Soldiers (LACO-SF), in Ward 10 in the locality.

The elder brother to the deceased, Samuel Abbey, said the assailants struck at about 9 pm shortly after his brother returned home while relaxing in front of his house.

The Lucky Aiyedatiwa Campaign Organisation Foot Soldiers Independent Council (LACO-FSIC)-SF, which condemned the murder of its members, urged security agencies to give protection to its members across the state.

https://thenationonlineng.net/just-in-gunmen-kill-aiyedatiwas-campaign-coordinator/

Politics › Oyo LG Poll: PDP Wins All 33 Chairmanship Seat by Ecstasy154(op): 12:59pm On Apr 28, 2024

… as APC kicks, rejects results

The Oyo State Independent Electoral Commission (OYSIEC) has announced results of the council poll held on Saturday, April 27.
The rulling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state won all chairmanship seats in 33 local government areas of the state.

OYSIEC chairman, Aare Isiaka Olagunju (SAN), the Commissioner of Police in the state, Adebola Hamzat and other security agencies in the state commended conduct of the poll, describing it as free, fair, credible and violence-free.

However, All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state has said the council election was a sham capable of causing the state untold disrepute if allowed to stand.

Below are results from each local government as being announced by INEC Returning Officers.

1) Irepo
PDP: 17,497
APC: 2,638

2) Orelope
PDP: 24, 569
APC: 5,519

3) Surulere
PDP: 19,493
APC: 1,619

4) Kajola
PDP: 11, 232
APC: 9,373
SDP: 1,28

5) Ogo-Oluwa
PDP: 9011
APC: 854
LP: 12

6) Olorunsogo
PDP: 8,501
APC: 3002
NNPP: 175

7) Ido
PDP: 20059
APC: 3059
LP: 498

Ibarapa East
PDP: 13,896
APC: 1,606
SDP: 08

9) Iseyin
PDP:69,896
APC: 8,241
NNPP: 581

10) Saki East
PDP: 9,732
APC: 1,571
ADC:36

11) Saki West
PDP: 19,621
APC: 4,920
ADC: 1,846

12) Ogbomoso South
PDP: 20,102
APC: 3,471
ADC:06

13) Ibadan Northwest
PDP: 21,810
APC: 3,848
ADC: 22

14) Ogbomoso North
PDP: 13,681
APC: 4,691
ADC: 11

15) Akinyele
PDP: 66,325
APC: 3,477
ADC: 147

16) Ibarapa Central
PDP: 14,124
APC: 3,500
ADC: 14

17) Ibadan Southeast
PDP: 23,220
APC: 4,265
ADC: 27

18) Atiba
PDP: 19,259
APC: 5,086
ADC: 06

19) Itesiwaju
PDP: 7,303
APC: 3,795

20) Atisbo
PDP: 25,336
APC: 6,567
ADC: 139

21) Egbeda
PDP: 24,573
APC: 5,637
ADC: 30

22) Iwajowa
PDP: 5,610
APC: 2,969
ADC: 150

23) Afijio
PDP: 18,662
APC: 198

24) Oyo West
PDP: 12,974
APC: 3,712
ADC: 90

25) Orire
PDP: 15,301
APC: 5,579
ADC: 12

26) Lagelu
PDP: 65,786
APC: 4,172
ADC: 150

27) Oluyole
PDP: 17,063
APC: 3,536
ADC: 55

28) Ibarapa North
PDP: 17,307
APC: 6,963

29) Oyo East
PDP: 27,567
APC: 3,051
ADC: 16

30) Ona-Ara
PDP: 13,093
APC: 4,187
ADC: 15

31) Ibadan North
PDP: 73,240
APC: 5,548
ADC: 0

32) Ibadan Southwest
PDP: 25,702
APC: 5,978

33) Ibadan Northeast
PDP: 17,920
APC: 7,958
ADC: 0

https://thenationonlineng.net/oyo-lg-poll-pdp-wins-all-33-chairmanship-seat/

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Politics › N80.2bn Fraud: EFCC Chairman Vows Resignation If Yahaya Bello Isn’t Prosecuted by Ecstasy154(op): 6:21pm On Apr 23, 2024

The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Ola Olukoyede, has vowed to resign as EFCC chairman if embattled former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, is not prosecuted.

In a chat with editors at the EFCC Headquarters, Jabi, Abuja, on Tuesday, the anti-graft agency chairman swore to follow the prosecution of Mr Bello to the logical conclusion.

He also vowed that all those who obstructed the arrest of the former governor would be brought to justice.

The EFCC is seeking to arraign Bello on 19 counts bordering on alleged money laundering, breach of trust and misappropriation of funds to the tune of N80.2 billion.

The agency’s chairman said that no matter what anyone does or the amount of attack against the anti-graft agency, he and his men will not relent in helping to sanitise the country.

Olukoyede noted that the EFCC needs the support of Nigerians to succeed, emphasising that if the agency fails, Nigeria fails. He stated that the efforts made currently have helped the value of the naira and the foreign market.

https://punchng.com/n80-2bn-fraud-efcc-chairman-vows-resignation-if-yahaya-bello

Politics › Naira Jumps To 8-month High Of 1,120/$ As Dollars Flood Black Market by Ecstasy154(op): 12:06pm On Apr 11, 2024

The Naira on Thursday rose to an eight-month high of 1,120 per dollar on the parallel market, popularly called black market, driven by a series of foreign exchange (FX) reforms of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) that has unlocked dollar liquidity.

With the current exchange rate the Naira has gained 62.95 percent (N705) over the dollar compared to the level of N1,825/$1 in February 2024, according to the data compiled from online platforms and street traders.

“The dollar has fallen because there is no demand. The market is calm due to the holidays and there are enough dollars in the market now,” one trader told BusinessDay on Thursday.

Nigeria’s currency on Monday before the holidays strengthened to 1,230.61 per dollar on the official FX market, despite the declining external reserves.

After trading on Monday, the Naira gained 1.66 percent as the dollar was quoted at N1230.61, stronger than N1,251.05 quoted on Friday at the Nigerian Autonomous Foreign Exchange Market (NAFEM), according to the data released by the FMDQ Securities Exchange.

The intraday high closed at N1,261 per dollar on Monday, stronger than N1,281 closed on Friday. The intraday low appreciated to N1,200 from N1,220 on Friday.

Dollar supply by willing buyers and willing sellers dropped by 49.43 percent to $125.55 million on Monday from $248.27 million recorded on Friday.

The external reserves, which gives the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) the firepower to defend the Naira have been declining, following the apex bank’s interventions to stabilise the currency.

Data from the CBN showed that Nigeria’s foreign currency reserves declined by 2.95 percent in the last 10 days to $33.434 billion as of April 4, 2024 compared to $34.449 billion in March 18, 2024.

The apex bank last month said it has successfully resolved all valid foreign exchange backlogs, as pledged by Governor Olayemi Cardoso, addressing inherited claims amounting to US$7 billion.

Dollar supply seen rising on CBN’s new directive
Total inflows into the NAFEM increased by 41.7 percent to $3.75 billion as against $2.64 billion in February – the highest level since March 2019 ($6.07 billion), data from the FMDQ indicated.

Nigeria’s Central Bank on Monday reviewed the exchange rate for the Bureau De Charge (BDC) Operators to N1,101 per dollar from N1,251/$1 as it plans to sell $15.88 million to 1,588 eligible BDCs.

As part of measures to control inflation and stabilise the Naira, the CBN last month raised its benchmark interest rate, known as the Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) by 200 basis points to 24.75 percent from 22.75 percent in February 2024.

On June 14, 2023, the CBN enacted several significant reforms, including the abolishment of market segmentation, consolidation of all segments into the Investors & Exporters window (now called the Nigerian Autonomous Foreign Exchange), and the reintroduction of the Willing Buyer, Willing Seller framework.

In August 2023, the CBN resumed Forex sales to BDCs but implemented a restriction on the buying and selling spread by BDCs to +/-2.5 percent of the weighted average of transactions executed the previous day on the I&E window.

In January 2024, the apex bank imposed a limit on the Net Open Position (NOP) of banks in Nigeria, setting it at a maximum of 20 percent short or zero percent long holding of foreign currency assets and liabilities. Additionally, the CBN directed International Money Transfer Operators (IMTOs) to quote an exchange rate for Naira payout to beneficiaries based on the prevailing market price.

In February 2024, the CBN removed caps on the spread on interbank Forex transactions and lifted restrictions on the sales of interbank proceeds. Furthermore, the CBN restricted the payout of Personal Travel Allowance (PTA) and Business Travel Allowance (BTA) to electronic channels only.

According to FSDH Research, the implementation of these measures has contributed to the reduction of volatility in the Naira in the FX markets.

By March 2024, the volatility of the Naira had further decreased following additional reforms by the CBN aimed at enhancing transparency and inflows into the FX market. On March 28, the NAFEM closing rate stood at N1309.4, reflecting a significant appreciation from its peak of N1,650 on February 26, 2024, a report by FSDH stated.

Analysts at FSDH expressed optimism, stating, “We believe that the recent FX reforms, coupled with high interest rates and improved oil production, will bring stability to the FX market.”

https://businessday.ng/business-economy/article/naira-jumps-to-8-month-high-of-1120-as-dollars-flood-black-market/

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Politics › Electricity Tariff: Abuja Disco Apologises Over Wrong Charges by Ecstasy154(op): 3:49pm On Apr 04, 2024

Abuja Electricity Distribution Company has apologised to its customers over the wrongful billing of the new tariff rate.

The firm attributed the development to a system glitch.

This was disclosed in a tweet via the company’s X handle on Thursday.

The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission, on Wednesday, approved an increase in electricity tariff for customers under the Band A classification who enjoy 20 hours of daily electricity supply.

The commission’s Vice Chairman, Musliu Oseni, said the increase will see the customers paying N225 kilowatt per hour from the current N66.

In its apology message, the AEDC noted that some Band A customers were wrongfully charged while recharging their meters, while former Band A customers who had been downgraded to Band B were charged the new tariff of N225 per Kilowatt Hour.

The tweet titled, ‘Public notice,’ read, “This is to inform customers across the Abuja Electricity Distribution Plc franchise that we are aware of the wrong charges faced by some Band A customers who tried to recharge their meters following the new tariff regime.

“This was due to a system glitch caused by the reclassification of some Band A customers who have now been downgraded to Band B due to the number of hours of electricity supply enjoyed over the past few weeks.

“These erstwhile Band A customers who vended were charged the new tariff of N225 per Kilowatt Hour. Our team is working to identify the customers affected, and all excess charges will be refunded.

“The situation also saw some Band A customers who are now charged N225 vend at the old rate. Once the glitch is resolved, this category of customers will now recharge their meters at the new rate of N225, which will ensure they enjoy a minimum supply of 20 hours daily.”

“We apologise for any inconvenience caused to our customers during this change. We remain committed to improving power supply to all categories of customers, and we crave your understanding and support as we do this,” the statement read.

https://punchng.com/electricity-tariff-abuja-disco-apologises-over-wrong-charges/

Politics › Port Harcourt Refinery Begins Operations by Ecstasy154(op): 2:19pm On Dec 21, 2023

The Federal Government, on Thursday, confirmed the commencement of operations at the Port Harcourt Refining and Petrochemical Company in Rivers State.

It announced that the facility commenced operations on December 20, 2023, as the first phase of work at the plant had been completed, adding that refined petroleum products would start flowing from the refinery after the Christmas break.

The government had earlier in the year repeatedly stated that the Port Harcourt refinery would begin operations before the end of 2023.

The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, who led members of the Refinery Steering Committee to inspect the facility, congratulated the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited and Nigerians in general for the feat.

Nigeria’s refineries in Port Harcourt, Kaduna, and Warri have been dormant for decades, as the Federal Government has spent several billions of naira to revamp the facilities.

“The meeting today coincides with the commencement of operations at the Port Harcourt refinery,” Lokpobiri stated at the refinery.

He added, “This is to announce to Nigerians that in fulfillment of our pledge to complete phase one of the Port Harcourt refinery by the end of 2023, and the subsequent streaming of phase two in 2024, we happily announce the mechanical completion of flare start-up on December 20, 2023.

“This heralds the commencement of the production of petroleum products after the Christmas break. We want to thank Nigerians for their patience and trust in the NNPC to deliver on our promise and mandate in the rehabilitation of our refineries.”

Also, the Group Chief Executive Officer, NNPC Limited, Mele Kyari, said the employees of the company worked day and night for over 9.6 million man-hours to get the refinery back on stream.

On April 7, 2021, The PUNCH reported that the NNPC officially signed a contract with Tecnimont SPA for the $1.5bn rehabilitation programme of the Port Harcourt Refining Company.

Details to come…

https://punchng.com/port-harcourt-refinery-begins-operations/

Politics › Breaking: A’court Declares Zamfara Gov Election Inconclusive by Ecstasy154(op): 6:41pm On Nov 16, 2023

The Court of Appeal sitting in Abuja has declared the Zamfara State governorship election inconclusive.

The Independent National Electoral Commission had declared Dauda Lawal of the Peoples Democratic Party winner of the election.

The All Progressives Congress governorship candidate, Bello Matawalle, had challenged the outcome of the March 18 governorship election at the tribunal but his petition was dismissed for lacking in merit.

Delivering the judgment on Thursday, the Court of Appeal declared the election as inconclusive and ordered INEC to hold a fresh election in two local governments.

Details later…

https://punchng.com/breaking-acourt-declares-zamfara-gov-election-inconclusive/?

Politics › NLC, TUC Suspend Strike by Ecstasy154(op): 9:25pm On Nov 15, 2023

The National Executive Council of the Nigeria Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress on Wednesday night suspended the ongoing strike.

The unions said the suspension followed the intervention of the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu.

Our correspondent gathered that the meeting which commenced at a few minutes past 7 pm lasted for close to one hour during which various affiliates and state chapters reviewed the outcome of the meeting held between the leaders of the organised labour and Ribadu.

The National Deputy Vice-President of the TUC, Tommy Etim, made this known in an interview with our correspondent in Abuja.

“The NEC of the NLC and the TUC have suspended the strike. We did this based on our trust for the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, who gave us his words,” he said.

The PUNCH reports that the labour leaders met with Ribadu alongside the Minister of Labour, Simon Lalong, at the Office of the NSA on Wednesday afternoon.

The NSA had announced that the individuals responsible for the brutalisation of Ajaero had been arrested.

The organised labour is protesting against the alleged brutalisation of its National President, Joe Ajaero, and the failure of the government to implement some of the agreements reached on October 2, 2023 effectively.

https://punchng.com/breaking-nlc-tuc-suspend-strike/

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Politics › Meet Five Governors Who Allegedly Govern From Outside Their States by Ecstasy154(op): 2:41pm On Nov 08, 2023

There have been growing indications that some governors in the country are governing their people from outside of their state.

Some of them allegedly govern their states from the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja and other parts of the world.

According to a report by The PUNCH, residents of these states, and several residents and stakeholders are complaining about the attitudes of these governors, noting that their absence from the states negates the principle of good governance

The report also revealed that most of these governors do not hand over to their deputies but prefer to make most of the decisions of the state from wherever they are, flouting the constitutional provision that stipulates that a governor has a statutory duty to sit and ensure lives and property are secured and protected. He is not expected to stay outside then state for more than two weeks because he is the Chief Security Officer of his state.

In this report, The PUNCH highlighted the five governors fingered as the worst culprits.

1. Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq (APC)

He doubles as the Chairman, Nigeria Governors’ Forum.
The opposition party in the state, the PDP claims the governor is hardly in the state since he became the NGF chairman.

According to the party’s chairman, Babatunde Mohammed, the governor has been incessantly absent from the state.

Mohammed said, “Since the governor took up the mantle of leadership of NGF, he hardly comes to the state to either oversee projects or spend time with the people,” he said, adding “The continued absence of Mallam Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq led to the illegal conversion of security vehicles procured to enhance local security into private use by the impostors he put in charge of our local government areas as the Transition Implementation Committee chairpersons.

“It should be noted that none of the vehicles have been put into any serious use by the security agents it was meant to serve, as the TIC chairmen still cruise in them as though they are their official cars.’’

2. Gombe State Governor, Mohammed Inuwa Yahaya (APC)

He doubles as the Chairman of the Northern Governors’ Forum, and has barely settled in the state since becoming the chairman of the forum, the governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress during the 2023 poll in Gombe State, Nafiu Bala claims.

“Since Governor Inuwa Yahaya resumed, he had never anointed his deputy to take office as acting governor. This is wrong,” he added.

3. Sokoto State Governor, Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto (APC)

The residents of the state have urged the state governor to “spend more time with his people at home,” instead of spending more days outside the state.

They decried a repeat of the previous administration of Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, who was accused of spending more time in Abuja than in the state.

Mallam Bala Bello, a resident of the state while speaking with our correspondent, described the previous administration of Tambuwal as not too good for the state.

“I am sure you are aware of Tambuwal’s tenure in the state when he spent more of his time outside the state than in the state.

4. Zamfara State Governor, Dr. Dauda Lawal (PDP)

Checks by The PUNCH indicated that the state governor hardly spent a week in the state since his inauguration on May 29.

The development, it was gathered, is becoming worrisome to the residents as “they are expecting much from the Governor who had during his electioneering campaign promised to rescue the state from total disintegration.”

The situation has also led to public outcry and complaints, especially by the opposition who say they can not imagine that the governor whose state is under the control of bandits, and terrorists and is ravaged by insecurity challenges would still be traveling out of state, leaving the residents to their fate.

5. Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello (APC)

In Kogi, the story is different as our correspondent learnt that the state governor, Yahaya Bello, is more at home in Lokoja “compared to before now.”

Our correspondent observed that the governor who before now had been running the affairs of the state from Abuja has recently been more at home helping his party, the All Progressives Congress candidate, Ahmed Usman Ododo effectively prosecute his campaign strategies so that the ruling party can maintain its dominance in the state.

According to The PUNCH findings, since Bello lost the APC presidential ticket, which led to the emergence of President Bola Tinubu, the governor has been more visible in Lokoja.

https://punchng.com/meet-five-governors-who-allegedly-govern-from-outside-their-states/

Politics › Nigerian Economy To Bounce Back Soon, Says President Tinubu by Ecstasy154(op): 7:11pm On Oct 24, 2023

President Bola Tinubu said on Tuesday, October 24, that the Nigerian economy will soon bounce back despite the difficulties being experienced by Nigerians.

The president spoke while flagging off the two-day Green Economy Summit: ‘Sustainable Future: Harnessing Green Assets and Innovation for Niger State’s Prosperity’, organised by Niger State Government.

Represented by the minister of state for Agriculture and food security, Senator Abdullahi Sabi, the President gave an insight into the newly approved solid mineral development policy during the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting on Monday.

He said: “To show the government’s commitment to the enthronement of a green economy, just yesterday (Monday) at the Federal Executive Council, a new solid mineral development policy was approved.

“And this policy will definitely align with and benefit the green economy that you have envisioned for Niger State because the policy is emphasizing removing all forms of illegality that are desecrating and destroying our environment.

“It also intends to ensure a new principle of resource-use efficiency while allowing people who want to operate legally to do so in the mining sector. And like His Excellency, the Governor said, Niger State is blessed with a number of mineral elements.

“I want to assure you that the President’s commitment to the enthronement of the green economy over the next couple of years, will find favour with the green economy vision you have for Niger state.”

“The government is fully aware of all the difficulties occasioned by some of the difficult decisions that have to be taken at this point in time. Very soon, we shall begin to reap the benefits of these tough decisions, as our economy will re-bounce back and for us food security which is his number one priority, will also begin to get the full attention it deserves,” Mr. President said.

In his address, Niger state Governor Mohammed Umar Bago said his administration has “produced its first Green Economy Blueprint, a strategic document outlining a visionary roadmap that will shape our development choices and steer our actions, in alignment with the precepts of sustainability.

He stated: “We are using this Summit to present a draft to stakeholders for their review and input, after which it shall be formally launched and applied in the preparation of our appropriation proposals for 2024 and beyond.

“This blueprint is a comprehensive guide that details our vision, objectives, strategies, and actions, designed to transform our state into a beacon of green prosperity that is environmentally sustainable, socially inclusive, and economically robust.

https://thenationonlineng.net/nigerian-economy-to-bounce-back-soon-says-president-tinubu/

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Politics › Election Materials: PDP, Atiku Withdraw Court Application Against INEC by Ecstasy154(op): 4:52pm On Mar 15, 2023

The Peoples Democratic Party and its presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, have withdrawn an application they filed to compel the Independent National Electoral Commission to allow their agents to participate in the process of sorting out ballot papers that were used for the February 25 presidential election.

Both the PDP and Atiku, who are separately challenging the outcome of the election that was declared in favour of Bola Tinubu, the candidate of the ruling All Progressives Congress, told the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal, sitting at the Court of Appeal in Abuja, that they have deemed it fit to discontinue the application.

When the motion ex-parte, marked: CA/PEC/10M/2023, was called up for hearing on Wednesday, Atiku, through his team of lawyers led by Joe Kyari Gadzama, told the court that he filed a notice of discontinuance.

Following this, Justice Joseph Ikyegh-led three-member panel struck out the application.

A member of Atiku’s legal team, who did not want his name mentioned, disclosed that the decision to withdraw the application was an outcome of a meeting his legal team held with the leadership of the electoral body on Tuesday.

“However, before the application which was dated March 13 could be slated for hearing, INEC, on its own, called our legal team for a meeting.

“It was at that meeting which held yesterday (Tuesday) that all the grey areas were sorted out, with INEC pledging to allow our agents to observe the process of sorting out some of the electoral materials we requested, especially the ballot papers.

“Since that was primarily our prayer in the fresh application we filed, we felt that it would not be necessary to proceed with the hearing. So, to save judicial time, we filed a notice of discontinuance which was accordingly granted.”

https://punchng.com/election-materials-pdp-atiku-withdraw-court-application-against-inec/

Politics › #Nigeriaelections2023: ‘don’t Vote APC, Face Trouble’, Agent Threatens Lagos Vot by Ecstasy154(op): 4:14pm On Feb 25, 2023

An unidentified man said to be an electoral agent of All Progressives Congress in Lagos State on Saturday asked voters to return back home if they are not willing to vote for the ruling party.

The incident allegedly happened at Fehintola Giwa Street in Aguda, Surulere, Lagos State.

The APC presidential candidate, Bola Tinubu, hails from Lagos State. Also, Surulere Local Government Area is part of the constituency of House of Representatives Speaker, Femi Gbajabiamila.

In the past, the area has recorded pockets of electoral violence. The PUNCH had on January 28, 2023, reported that the convoy of the Lagos State Peoples Democratic Party governorship candidate, Abdul-Azeez Adediran, aka Jandor, was attacked in the Coker area of Aguda in Surulere.

Some suspected hoodlums shot sporadically and destroyed some of the campaign vehicles in Adediran’s convoy during the attack while three persons were injured.

But in a video sighted by our correspondent on Saturday, the unidentified agent can be heard asking electorates who won’t for APC in the area to leave the polling unit and return home.

In the 28-second video clip, the male agent claimed that Surulere is for APC and that only people willing to cast their ballot for APC should step forward to vote.

“If you can’t vote APC here; go back to your house. Nobody forced you to come to the polling unit and you can go back home.

I will go and check (ballot papers) and if I see that you vote for another party, you’d enter wahala (trouble). You’re in APC territory. Please go and relax in your house if you’re not voting APC,” the man can be heard saying.

https://punchng.com/nigeriaelections2023-dont-vote-apc-face-trouble-agent-threatens-lagos-voters/

Politics › #NigeriaElections2023: Two Killed In Abia by Ecstasy154(op): 3:14pm On Feb 25, 2023

Two people have reportedly been killed in Ndi Agwu community in Abam, Arochukwu Local Government Area of Abia State.

It was reported that the casualties occurred during the presidential and National Assembly polls holding in today.

Reports have it that one of the victims, identified as Samuel Arunsi Eze was said to have been beheaded by a political thug known as Daniel Mgba.

According to an eyewitness report, one of those involved in the killing has also been killed.

https://punchng.com/nigeriaelections2023-two-reportedly-killed-in-abia/

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Politics › #NigeriaElections2023: Kogi Voters Flee As Thugs Destroy Electoral Materials by Ecstasy154(op): 1:20pm On Feb 25, 2023

Voters in Ogege road, Odaba Polling Unit in Dekina Ward have fled from the voting arena following the activities of political thugs who came in large numbers to destroy voting materials.

The thugs who appeared with machetes and guns snatched ballot boxes, broke chairs and dispersed voters.

As of the time of filing this report, voters and officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission have dispersed.

https://punchng.com/nigeriaelections2023-kogi-voters-flee-as-thugs-destroy-electoral-materials/

Politics › Obi Cannot Win On Saturday – LP State Chairmen by Ecstasy154(op): 5:32pm On Feb 23, 2023

State chairmen of the Labour Party (LP) have declared that the presidential candidate of the party Peter Obi cannot win on Saturday.

This, they said, is because he has neglected the 36 State chairmen in the running of campaign and molibisation activities.

Alleging neglect by Obi, they said the former Anambra Governor has failed to recognise the important role of the 36 state chapters’ leadership but choose to work with cronies and support groups.

The Gombe State LP chairman and co-ordinating chairman for the 36 States, Sani Abdulsalam, told reporters in Abuja that such tendencies could affect the party’s performance at the polls.

He was accompanied by the national vice chairman (North East), Mohammed Alkali and the Yobe State chairman, Ibrahim Bukar, amongst others.

He hinted that monies expected to be channelled to polling unit agents through state chairmen or national officers have not been done, stressing the fundamental need for polling unit agents for winning elections.

While bemoaning the paucity of LP’s polling unit agents, among other things, he accused Obi of insensitivity and high-handedness.

Abdulsalam said: “I speak on behalf of 36 state Chairmen of our party in my capacity as the Coordinating Chairman.

“We have never been respected by the party leadership and also our presidential candidate has no respect for our party executives at state levels because Peter Obi deliberately mismanaged our goodwill with the imposition of his members and other support groups that decamped with him in May 2022 to our party.

“Of note, Wednesday, February 22, 2023, was the meeting we had with the National Chairman in the party head office where a discussion was held about the logistics support for state chapters and National officers towards effective Mobilisation of our members for the presidential and National Assembly election on Saturday, February 25, 2023

“To our surprise, the National Chairman said the Presidential candidate has no confidence in all the 36 state chapters’ leadership but would rather choose to work with their cronies and support group that came with him.

“The greatest shock from the National Chairman was that money for agents will not be sent to any State Chairman or National officers except those three NWC members including a woman and that all state Chairmen and 19 other members already picked by Mr Peter Obi himself will be given monies meant for party agents and an alert will be received by 10 pm tonight Wednesday, February 22, 2023.

“As of now, no alert has been received by any State Chairmen and information reaching us confirmed that money was paid based on ethnic and religious consideration because only persons of a particular ethnic group currently run the campaign of Mr Peter Obi in cohort with the National Chairman, has polluted the party.

“As members of the Labour Party National Executive and National Working Committee, it is our considered opinion and informed conclusion that Peter Obi cannot win this election since all party executives have been sidelined. He is not ready and is grossly ill-prepared for the Presidential race.”

https://thenationonlineng.net/obi-cannot-win-on-saturday-lp-state-chairmen/

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Politics › Nigeria Is Better Than We Met It In 2015 – Lai Mohammed Lai-mohammed- by Ecstasy154(op): 2:44pm On Feb 20, 2023

The Federal Government says Nigeria has made tremendous progress and better than 2015 when the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) was in power.
The Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed said this on Monday when he featured on Nigeria Television Authority (NTA) live programme, “Good Morning Nigeria”

Speaking on the programme monitored by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the minister said the Buhari’ government had met the expectations of Nigerians and true to its mandate giving the time frame and circumstances.

The minister said the attempts to de-market the government and in the process the country were the handwork of die-hard naysayers and very vocal minority.

Speaking on the administration’s achievements, the minister said in 2015, the entire North East region was inaccessible and 20 of the 27 Local Government Areas in Borno were under the occupation and control of Boko Haram insurgents.

He said presently no portion or part of Nigeria territory was under the occupation and control of insurgents.

Mohammed recalled that in 2015, Nigeria was number one importer of rice from Thailand but with the administration’s policies and programmes on agriculture, the country is self-sufficient in the staple and food in general.

He said millions of farmers had been empowered with the Anchor Borrowers Programme while the number of rice mills in the country had been increased from two in 2015 to 60 presently

Under the administration’s social intervention programmes, the minister said 10 million pupils were being fed daily while two million households were benefitting from Conditional Cash Transfer among others.

Mohammed said the administration had constructed 17,000 kms of new roads and rehabilitated 8,000 kms across the country

“We completed the Lagos-Ibadan expressway as well as the second Niger bridge, which was a mirage for more than three decades.

“Also for more than three decades, Nigerians did not know what it means to travel by train until the Buhari’ government came to power.

In spite all the sabotage, today we have working, the Lagos-Ibadan railway, Abuja-Kaduna railway and Ajaokuta- Warri railway which were not in existence before we came,’’ he said.

The minister said the Buhari’ government would continue to build a progressive and prosperous nation and would not be cowed or intimidated by the naysayers.

https://thenationonlineng.net/nigeria-is-better-than-we-met-it-in-2015-lai-mohammed/

Politics › Ebubeagu Operative Shot Dead At APC Ebonyi Campaign by Ecstasy154(op): 9:29pm On Jan 30, 2023

An operative of the South East Security outfit code-named Ebubeagu, Ajasm Aja, was shot dead at the venue of the All Progressive Congress(APC) campaign ground
He was reportedly killed by his colleague over N1000.

It was gathered they were part of the Ebubeagu team drafted to the Isu community in the Onicha Local Government Area of Ebonyi State to provide security at the APC governorship rally last Saturday.

After the rally, it was further learnt that the team was directed to bring and secure the party’s flags for subsequent rallies when an altercation ensued between the deceased and his trigger-happy colleague over who should get N1,000.

As the altercation raged, it was said gathered Aja rushed for his Pump Action riffle but his opponent swiftly pulled his pistol, shot him in the head and he died instantly.

A community source, who pleaded anonymity, said: “Today, Saturday 28th January 2023 the APC had their rally at Isu, the council headquarters of Onicha LGA.

“At the close of the event, the Ebubeagu members and G-24 group members loyal to the Onicha LGA Chairman, Mr Chidiebere Uzor (aka Obosi-Aku), were asked to collect back the Party’s flag in readiness for other day’s event.

“In the process of doing so, one of the Ebubeagu members and a leader in the G-24 group, popularly known as Ajasm Aja, who was recently sworn in as Supervisory Councillor for Health in the Onicha council area, was engulfed in a strong altercation with a co-member.

“As the duo engaged in a war of words, Mr Aja pulled his Pump-Action rifle and aimed to shoot at the other colleague. In a swift response, the colleague was quicker in action, pulled a pistol and shot him in the forehead.

“He fell flat immediately and died on the spot.

“This event is coming a few hours after the noble Elders of Onicha-Igboeze called ‘”Umunwanyi Oji-Ofo”, laid a curse on anyone who would engage in any activities targeted at instigating violence in Onicha-Igboeze or at killing a fellow brother or sister.

“Many, after hearing the news of the incidence leading to the sudden demise of Mr Aja believed that he had fallen to the curse of the Umunwanyi Oji-Ofo since he’s known as one of the terror figures in the community.”

Ebubeagu Commander in Ebonyi State, Mr Friday Nnana-Ujor, confirmwd the death of the Ebuneagu operative on Monday.

He, however said the attacker wasn’t an operative of the Southeast security outfit, revealing the assistant was a suspected gunman, who also wielded pump action.like his men.

He said: “No. it was not an Ebubeagu person that shot him.

“That thing was stage-managed; it was people that packed behind a Sienna bus that killed him. The person that did that was sent to do so. People are thinking that it was an Ebubeagu personnel that killed the person, but it is not true.

“It’s because the gun they used in killing the person was Pump Action. No Ebubeagu person goes to the rally ground with arms.

“We had a meeting and made that decision. We are currently investigating the matter and very soon we will arrest the culprit and call journalists to hear from him. I don’t want people to think that it’s politics. Just exercise some patience,” he said.

https://thenationonlineng.net/ebubeagu-operative-shot-dead-at-apc-ebonyi-campaign/

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Politics › Radio Ijangbara: Illegal Broadcast Won’t Be Tolerated, NBC Warns by Ecstasy154(op): 9:23pm On Dec 30, 2022

The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) on Friday warned that it would not tolerate any illegal broadcast signal within Nigeria.
The warning follows the announcement by the Ilana Omo Oodua Worlwide (IOOW) that it would commence radio broadcast in January.

IOOW said it would on January 1 unveil Radio Ijangbara as the official broadcaster of the Yoruba self-determination struggle.

The online radio will broadcast live from Dubai, United Arab Emirate (UAE).

A statement by the group’s Chairman Prof Wale Adeniran and General Secretary, Dr. Tunde Amusat, said the radio shall serve the interest of Yoruba self-determination struggle within and outside the shores of Nigeria.

Reacting to the planned unveiling, NBC, in a statement, stated that no person shall operate or transmit anywhere in Nigeria without the approval of the Commission.

The statement by the Director General, Mall Balarabe Shehu Ilelah, reads in part: “It has come to the attention of the Commission that a group, the Ilana Omo Oodua Worlwide, in a statement jointly signed by its Chairman and General Secretary, Wale Adeniran and Tunde Amusat, respectively, announced that it would formally unveil Radio Ijangbara, as the official broadcast radio of the group on January 1, 2023.

“Further to this statement, was that the online radio will be broadcasting from Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

“The Commission wishes to state emphatically that, it will not tolerate the use of any broadcast facility within or outside Nigeria to create disunity among Nigerians and intentionally, or inadvertently, mislead people in a deliberate act of subversion and sedition. Nigerians do not need another round of heartache and disruption by any tribal interest group.

“No person shall operate or use any apparatus or premises for the transmission of sound or vision by cable, television, radio, satellite or any other medium of broadcast from anywhere in Nigeria without the approval of the Commission.

“The Commission will continue to work with the appropriate security agencies to bring to book those with the intention to use the airwaves for personal or group interest to create division, and appeals to Nigerians for support, cooperation.

“The Commission urges Nigerians to unite in joining hands with the government to build a stronger and more prosperous nation and to help in the success of next year’s General Elections.”

https://thenationonlineng.net/radio-ijangbara-illegal-broadcast-wont-be-tolerated-fed-govt-warns/

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Politics › Buhari: Those Who Called Me Jubril Of Sudan Mischievous by Ecstasy154(op): 2:35pm On Dec 24, 2022

President Muhammadu Buhari has described those who spread the rumour of him being replaced with a Jubril Aminu from Sudan as mischievous.
He spoke at a get-together by family and associates to mark his 80th birthday.

It was held in the Old Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Friday night.

In the aftermath of President Buhari’s prolonged hospitalisation in London, it was claimed that he died in the process of being treated and was replaced by a body double.

He left the country for treatment in London in May and returned in August 2017 after 103 days.

President Buhari said he would continue to do his best in service to Nigeria despite criticisms from some quarters that he has not done enough.

At the special birthday event, a documentary was aired on his life from childhood, where he declared that he was not bothered by the claim that he died long ago and is not the real Buhari.

Responding to a question in the documentary on whether the claim affected him, he said he heard the rumour but was not distracted.

President Buhari said: “Yes. People said I am somebody from Sudan. I didn’t bother with the name. Some Nigerians have mischievous ways of explaining themselves.

“No. It’s not funny because those who made those statements, they just want to be cheeky. They want to distract attention from the main issue.

“Our main issue is to do the infrastructure, make people aware that they need to work hard to live well; they just enjoy life without earning the respect of their community and so on.”

On what he will miss the most after leaving office in May next year, the President simply said “nothing much”.

“I wonder if I am going to miss much. I think I’m being harassed.

“I believe I’m trying my best but still my best is not good enough because there are people around that think that they can intimidate me to get what they want, instead of going through certain systems to earn whatever they want to earn and they are same people who want to be clever by half,” he said.

While proposing a toast for the celebrant, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo described the Nigerian leader as a forthright, good and kind man, as well as an exemplary leader.

He praised President Buhari for leading the nation with great courage, determination and commitment.

“I invite your excellences, ladies and gentlemen, to join me in proposing this toast to an exemplary leader, a forthright and honest man, a good and kind man, and a man who has led this country with great courage, determination and commitment for so many years.

“We pray that the almighty God will preserve his life for very many years to come and that he will live all of these many years in good health, peace, joy and with the love of all of our country men,” he said.

Presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, who also graced the occasion, thanked President Buhari for sacrificing a lot for the progress of Nigeria.

“You have been at the helm of the affairs of this country at a critical time. We have seen a life of commitment, dedication, patriotism and honesty. Mr President, you have done well for your country. Our nation has seen the difference, the leadership that you demonstrate,” he said.

He said President Buhari belongs to the class of leaders who came and served their country with commitment, dedication patriotism and honesty.

He likened him to leaders like Charles De Gaulle of France, Franklin Roosevelt of the United States of America (USA) and Winston Churchill of the Great Britain.

Tinubu, accompany by his running mate Senator Kashim Shettima, said: “The leadership you have demonstrated reminded me of the speech you gave at the Primary Convention when you won the nomination.

“You thanked the people with all humility and said even if you had the money, you would not have paid, but that is because they know who you are, a man of integrity, great commitment, transparent and a exceptional humility.”

Tinubu prayed that “God will continue spare you to see the history as you want it for the country, the ship of this nation will be on the right course. You will live long to enjoy a nice evening of democracy that you brought about.

“When you talk of PVC, card reader, transparency and honesty in the electoral process, like you did, we can only promise not to let you down. Enjoy 80 till you celebrate other birthdays,” he said.

Also eulogising the President, former Ogun State governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, described the President as a man with an impeccable character and somebody that loves Nigeria.

“He is a man whom all of us; even his adversaries will agree that this is a man with a flawless character, a man with a good heart, very compassionate, very committed and a good listener.

“Somebody that loves his family, Nigeria; he is a nationalist. President Muhammadu Buhari will always think about others. In his own little way and even in his humorous way, he will always not just think about himself.

“He is somebody tha is not bothered about all these worldly things he is already a contented human being,” he said.

Ebonyi State Governor, David Umahi described President Buhari as a detribalised person that means well for Nigeria.

“Let me say here that the President is a very highly detribalised personality.

“He is a man that loves this nation. Every time you meet him, he laments about the level of patriotism of our people.

“You will see a man that has passion for the people of this country, a man that loves every section of this country,” he said.

The governor thanked President Buhari for completing the second Niger bridge, which is now facilitating the movement of people and goods to the Eastern part of the country this yuletide season.

The President’s eldest daughter, Fatima Buhari, who spoke on behalf of her siblings and the entire family, used the occasion to thank her father for investing in their future by giving them the needed training and caring for their wellbeing.

“We are deeply honoured to be here celebrating the 80th birthday of our beloved father.

“I thank almighty Allah for his mercy and grace, for giving our beloved father long life and good health.

“Baba is someone who money cannot buy. That is one thing we know and he taught us that. He taught us humility, loyalty, integrity, dignity and honesty and he has a very good sense of humour.

“He gave us everything a parent will give his child; love, care, good education, shelter and many more,” she said.

There were good will messages from traditional rulers, who all eulogized President Buhari as a man of integrity and a huge sense of humour.

The Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed, led other members of the President’s cabinet as they presented a giant birthday card, as the rejoiced with him on his 80th birthday.

Governors who also graced the occasion were Aminu Masari of Katsina State and Atiku Bagudu of Kebbi.

https://thenationonlineng.net/buhari-those-who-called-me-jubril-of-sudan-mischievous/

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Politics › 2 Million March: “I Hope You Get 200,” El-rufai Sneers At Peter Obi, Supporters by Ecstasy154(op): 12:45pm On Aug 15, 2022

Governor of Kaduna state, Nasir El-Rufai has sneered at the presidential candidate of the Labour Party,LP, Peter Obi and his supporters over their planned “two-million-man march” in the state.

Recall that Obi’s supporters have been mobilizing online and offline across the country, including Nassarawa state recently, to rally support ahead of the 2023 elections.

El-Rufai, in a tweet via his verified Twitter on Monday, said he hopes they have two hundred people in the streets of Kaduna for the march.

He tweeted, “In Kaduna? Not Kaduna Twitter? – I hope you get Two Hundred persons on the streets, including those ‘imports’ that can’t open their shops on Mondays, and came on overnight bus last night!! I jus’ dey laff, wallahi tallahi!! – @KadunaResident.”

El-Rufai said the only way Obi’s supporters could get their projected figure was by “importing” people to Kaduna state.

Aside from Nasarawa solidarity march for Obi, there have also been street marches for Obi with huge numbers recorded in Calabar.

Meanwhile, Obi, during the weekend, attended the 70th annual convention of the Redeemed Christian Church of God at Redemption City.

https://www.vanguardngr.com/2022/08/peter-obi-20/?utm_medium=notify&utm_source=browsernotice

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