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Former Publicity Secretary of the Pan-Niger Delta Forum, PANDEF, Chief Anabs Sara-Igbe, in this interview, faulted the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, arguing that the motivating factor is the revenue that Rivers generates and 2027 elections.
Sara-Igbe, who spoke on the Morning Show, an Arise TV programme, also said Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s suspension was an attack on the people of Rivers. Excerpts:
What is your reaction to developments in Rivers State, the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and declaration of a state of emergency as well as its implications for the politics in Rivers?
This is not the first time a state of emergency has been declared. As spokesman (Dr Reuben Abati) for former President Goodluck Jonathan, a situation like this came up. In three states, a state of emergency was declared. When you (Abati) were asked why the president did not sack the governors, you made it clear that the constitution does not empower Mr President to sack or suspend elected representatives or governors in the case of a state of emergency.
Mr President relied on Section 305. If you look at Section 305 all through, Section 305 should also apply in the Northern part of Nigeria where we had war. In the case of Rivers State, there is no war, no fight, the whole place is quiet, and yet the state of emergency was declared. Not only that, an elected governor was suspended, the House of Assembly was also suspended. Somehow, this is not proper. It is an illegal action. The constitution did not empower Mr President in any way. I have looked at the condition under which a governor can be removed. This was not part of the conditions in the constitution. But I will tell you why Mr President may have taken this action. One, Mr President, seems to be very desperate to whip opponents to their nails.
Wike is the hatchet man of Mr President. Last week, he came to Rivers State like a president. He came with the military, the army, the police, the navy, the air force, the DSS, gunboats, airplanes, tanks, artillery, all were mobilised for a visit of a minister, with the intention of causing a crisis so that this state of emergency could be declared. Mr President met with the two of them and set up an agreement. In that agreement, Governor Siminalayi Fubara was asked to withdraw his case from the court. He did but the other party refused to withdraw their case. It is like two men carrying guns. You asked one man to drop his gun and the other man refused to drop his gun and you did not care. You don’t blame him and you ask him to shoot the man and they shot him. That is how they got the Supreme Court judgment they are talking about.
Mr President accused Siminalayi of not implementing the agreement. If you look at it closely, nowhere in the world where a man who has resigned will be forced to come back and the governor will accept him. But the governor accepted. When he was told to accept the House of Assembly members that have decamped from their party, he (Fubara) did. All the conditions, he (Fubara) complied with it. Yet you are not satisfied. The Rivers State elders looked at it and some of us felt, no. These eight conditions were not good for the state. So we went to court. Those things we were telling Mr Governor not to do that he applied are the ones that are now witch haunting him. You went to the Supreme Court with the same eight-point agenda. You asked the judges to write exactly what you wanted and they did for you. The governor was willing to implement the Supreme Court judgment and was ready to do that and they kept saying they wouldn’t accept it. Mr President never blamed them.
PANDEF went to see Mr President and I was among them. Mr President blamed the governor, he never blamed the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Nyesom Wike. Two people are fighting and if you want to make peace, what you would have done is to say: ‘Okay, I will fire my minister.’ At least you have the power to fire a minister that has been causing confusion not only in the Niger Delta, also in the North and in the South-East. You did not fire him, but you could fire the governor that you do not have power to fire. These are things that are obvious. Now, other governors will be watching. Today, it is the turn of Siminalayi Fubara. He (President Bola Tinubu) will apply it to the other states, particularly the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, states.
National Assembly members are there, and the law says they have to confirm. But in this case, he has also gone contrary to the constitution. He has violated the constitution. And he is asking the National Assembly to approve for him that he violated the constitution and they all accepted it. If the National Assembly now thinks this is a president that they can trust, I worry, because definitely he will go after them.
If you are saying that you are not happy with the decision the president has taken, what would you have expected him to do when you made calls for him to come in to intervene in the crisis? How would you have wanted the president to intervene?
We are not against him intervening. It is like a father who has two children fighting. You must be fair to both children. You cannot beat one and leave the other causing trouble. It is not possible. It is not right. A father must be fair to all his children. You cannot love one and show the other child that I love this one more than you. In the context of declaring a state of emergency, nobody has quarrelled with the president because he has that power under Section 305.
However, you don’t have any power in the Nigerian constitution from Section 182, 183, 188, 189, where it is mentioned how a governor or a deputy governor can be removed from office. You do not have such powers. Nothing like that to say Mr President has the power to suspend or remove a governor. When you infringe on the constitution, people will tell you. I am not a lawyer, but this is elementary law that everyone knows. The Attorney General has not advised him properly . This means democracy is at risk. Our democracy is at risk because you must stand by the truth. You are suspending a governor, an elected governor of Rivers State, and you are not suspending or sacking the minister who is fomenting all the problems. He (president) can declare a state of emergency, but he has no constitutional power to suspend the governor.
His minister who is causing the whole trouble should be sacked. The other day, this man came and abused everybody and told Nigerians openly that it is not only the Ijaw that can bomb pipelines, adding that Ogoni can bomb pipelines, Etche can bomb pipelines, Ikwerre can bomb pipelines. Within the period he has been fomenting problems, Ogoni has bombed pipelines, as he promised. He has sent people to blow pipelines in the Omoku area, as he said. Yet, you are leaving him and you are crucifying a man, an innocent man, because he is peace-loving, because he is quiet, because he is not fighting, and you allow this man who insulted everybody, insulted Niger Delta as a whole and insulted Ijaw nation.
You said: ‘Oh, Tompolo is the one looking after pipelines,’ so you want to blow pipelines in Ogoni so that you crucify Tompolo because you hate Ijaw. And Mr President is there watching these things.
Can you provide me with evidence that Wike is behind the bombing of pipelines?
I will give you the facts. A witch said a child would die today or tomorrow, and tomorrow the child died. That is what empirical facts are. Wike said on national television that Ogoni could bomb pipelines. Here is a man who came to a small community in Rivers State with over 700 soldiers, a DSS, gunboats, airplanes, jets, fire jets. What did he want? Was he going to war? The man wanted a state of emergency by all means. That was why he did what he did.
What are the elders in the state doing? Where is Fubara, as we speak? Have you spoken to him?
First, the Supreme Court said don’t release money until Fubara presents the budget. Fubara has been trying to present a budget, but he was prevented. The Supreme Court has not said anything. Money is released to somebody, a stranger, a complete stranger, who came illegally. And their interest is nothing but the money. Otherwise, why not be patient?
The state has funds that they can use to run it. We have an internally generated fund that can run the state. When you saw that this man was commissioning projects every day, all you needed to do was to stall him. And you brought a stranger, illegally. You have no legal right to suspend the governor. You have no legal right to suspend state funds. You brought somebody, and you released money to him. We have not seen Fubara, and nobody has communicated with Fubara. We do not know what they have done to Fubara. We do not know where Fubara is. We have tried to reach him, but we cannot reach him (as at Thursday). He is in danger. We want Nigerians to know that Fubara’s life is in danger.
Until we see Fubara speak face-to-face on television, we have not seen him. We have not heard from him. With all sincerity, ask anybody whether they have heard from him (Fubara). He was locked up in the Government House. We only see on social media that he has been released from the Government House. The Rivers people are worried. This is a war against Rivers State, not a war against Fubara.
Fubara has done so well, and Rivers’ people are happy with him. If Nigerians keep quiet and allow this thing to happen, it will happen in other places. And what are we inviting? We are talking about democracy. This is not a democratic government. This is a dictatorial government. And if this dictatorship is allowed to stand, then the country is finished. As regards whether we are going to see the administrator, Rivers elders are not willing to do so. We are saying that is an illegality and we cannot join illegality. We cannot dine with illegality. We will continue to protest until the right thing is done in accordance with the law.
Is it possible to imagine that even Wike himself is a loser or a victim in this matter?
You may not know the background to this issue. Just on Monday, the Federal High Court sat in Port Harcourt. Martins Amaewhule, which is the Wike faction, brought a certified true copy of the Supreme Court judgment and asked the court to strike out the case. The judge said no, he wants to hear the case on its merits. And the judge had both sides and said he would give judgment on the 15th of next month. The moment they came out from court, what we heard was, they were serving an impeachment notice.
When they realised that they could not go through with impeachment, despite the fact that they had the number, the next thing they thought of was the commando style – a state of emergency, bundle the governor away, I will take over the government and grab the money. They are interested in Rivers’ money and they have taken the money that the Supreme Court said nobody should touch until the governor presents a budget. The governor has written to them through the Secretary of Government. On his own (Fubara), he has written to them. He went to their house, their Assembly quarters and it was locked out. Nigerians are seeing it.
When they saw that things were not going the way they wanted, all they did was a non-constitutional coup, to remove the governor. What else do we want? If Wike was honourable, he would resign. He is not causing problems to Rivers alone. The North is angry because of Wike, the way he communicates with them. The South-East is angry because of Wike, and the way he communicates with them. He insulted the Niger Delta, thinking the Niger Delta would be happy, and they would support Jonathan. Former President Goodluck Jonathan lost his second tenure because of Wike. It is because of Wike that former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, left with five other governors from the PDP. And Jonathan lost the election.
Do you think President Tinubu will survive under this condition? He has created enemies for him. The next enemy he will create is the West. He will create an enemy between the West and Tinubu. Mr President is supporting whatever Wike is doing. What we are saying is that if the president is sincere, then Wike should be sacked. Then we will know that he is sincere. Wike is the fomentor of all the problems in the Niger Delta and across the country.
That the second-hand underwear market in Lagos is experiencing significant growth is not news.
What is news, perhaps, is the rising demand for used bras.
Some women say that their decisions when buying bras are based on some factors which include affordability, durability, and quality.
Many say they go for the fairly used bras, popularly known as “Okrika”, because they are mostly available, affordable and durable.
Apart from busy markets such as Tejuosho, Balogun and Katangowa, in Lagos State, thrift bras can be found in smaller markets, stores and from roadside traders.
Mrs Peace Okeke, also known as ‘Lady Bra’ among her customers in Festac Town, in Amuwo Odofin Local Government Area of the state, says she has been in the trade for more than 18 years.
According to Okeke, since she has been in the business, many of her customers have come to trust high quality and first grade thrift bras.
Okeke, who sells both thrift and new bras, says for those seeking affordability, durability and comfort, these first grade second-hand bras are increasingly popular option.
“I have been in the business for the past 18 years, and I have seen how people’s preferences changed.
“Most people prefer it. One, it’s durable, long-lasting, when in use. Secondly, it’s cheap, it’s affordable. Anybody can afford it,” she said.
She notes that new bras, particularly from top-tier international brands, can cost between N15,000 and N50,000, or more, for one, but the thrift bras offering similar quality are available for as low as N5,000.
“People buy the new ones but for the average person, especially those with limited income, they can get thrift bras for N5,000 comfortably.
“You can as well get three bras for the same price as one new bra, and they will last as long as you need them to,” she explains.
While some may hesitate to buy second-hand bras, especially due to social stigma or concerns over hygiene, Okeke stresses the value in opting for thrift items.
She says thrift bras are the better choice for those on a budget.
“The economic situation in the country is hard. Some people have the money to get that of N15,000 or N20,000.
“I will advise those that cannot afford to, instead of spending N15,000 on one bra, you can use that N15,000 to get three good bras.
“They will last you as long as you want without spoiling, unless you decide to change your underwear,” she said.
On the hygiene aspect, Okeke says washing them properly with warm water and salt is the simple solution.
She says her customers have not reported any issues with hygiene and infections, and that some even use the same cleaning method for thrift underwear, which she says sells in large quantities.
“Even people go as far as using it to wash thrift pants and they wear it. No germs. No diseases,” she says.
Also, Mrs Aisha Lawal, a trader at Orile Market, says the economic hardship has pushed many women to seek out thrift bras as an alternative.
“I sell both new and fairly used bras but the fairly used ones sell faster, and many women prefer them because they are stronger, cheaper and last longer than the new ones,” she says.
Lawal, who has been in the business for over 15 years says with as low as N1,500 to N2,000, customers can get a good quality thrift bra while the new one of the same quality will cost N20,000 or more.
She says durability and affordability is the selling point of thrift bras.
“Unlike many new bras that can lose their elasticity and quality quickly, especially cheaper mass-produced ones, thrift bras often sourced from reputable regions like the UK, are known for their resilience.
“Even those with larger busts, often overlooked in mainstream stores, can find a well-fitting and long-lasting bra from thrift stores at a reasonable price.
Lawal also advises buyers to soak their thrift bras in hot water and disinfectant before washing to get rid of any germs.
Acknowledging the source of quality bras, Lawal says, “some of these fairly used bras come from the UK and USA, and they are of better quality than the cheap, new ones.”
Again, one of the concerns of people are hygiene and proper care about second-hand items, especially underwear.
According to Mrs Olayemi Adebayo, she buys thrift bras that are in good condition because they are more affordable and most times better than the new ones.
Adebayo says she has not had issues with hygiene because she washes it properly before use.
Mrs Tolu Adebiyi, who is a banker, however says that apart from quality, hygiene and perception of used items are major considerations for her when buying underwear.
“I only buy new bras. I believe undergarments should be personal and new. I don’t feel comfortable wearing something that someone else has used.
“I understand that fairly used bras are more affordable but I will rather save and buy new ones,” she says.
Remilekun Moses, a lingerie businesswoman, says thrift trends will not impact underwear brands in the market.
“They have their market share and offer more stylish and sensual designs using lluxury fabrics,’’ she says.
According to Moses, who is a digital marketer, the local and international underwear brands are expanding their reach by targeting the middle and upper class through social media.
Thrift is becoming more than just a trend, it is a lifestyle for many.
People are increasingly turning to second-hand goods, not only to save money but also because they are often made with higher quality materials that last longer.
For many, thrift bras are no longer seen as second-rate option but as smart, practical solution that deliver both quality and affordability.
General Overseer of Christ Embassy, Chris Oyakhilome, has stated that the music industry has been exploiting the church in the last four to five decades.
The clergyman stated this while addressing his congregation in a viral video. He lamented that many musicians in the music industry began their careers in the church but eventually transformed into secular musicians.
He asserted that such individuals fail to contribute to the Christian ministry and only use the church as a platform to gain popularity and financial advantage.
Oyakhilome expressed concern that many of these individuals, once exposed to external influences, returned to the church with behaviours and mindsets that negatively affected others.
He warned pastors against entrusting sensitive aspects of ministry, particularly music, to those whose intentions may be self-serving rather than spiritually driven.
According to him, “In probably the last 40–50 years, no one has cheated the church like the music industry. What most of them have ever done was to use the church. If you look at history, long before the 50 years I just mentioned, you will see many worldly singers that started in the church.
“They were in the choir, they were leading praise, but ended up in the world. All they ever did was to use the church. They used the church to make themselves popular. Either they start a church with that opportunity, or find a way to use that opportunity to make money. Satan enters into their minds to give them ideas on how to leverage the opportunity given to them in the house of God for financial reasons.
“I have told you, don’t give them any chances anymore, otherwise you will go to hell. I’m trying to save them, many of them who wouldn’t go to church. They don’t know the message. They are exposed to poetic abilities. Most of the things they write, sinners can write them.
”So, when I started seeing the same sign of what was out there, which I was trying to protect many of them from, because once they started going out, they started collecting the same spirit from outside and came back inside to be luring others to behave the same way.
“As I look at the churches, I see and I say pastors don’t give this all-important aspect of the ministry to those whose only desires are to take advantage of the church.”
Veteran Nollywood actress, Nkechi Nweje has died after a brief illness.
Naija News reports that Nkechi’s colleague, Stanley Ontop, announced the demise in a post via his Instagram page on Friday.
He wrote, “Nollywood in tears as we lost one of our vibrant Nollywood actress @nkechi.nweje After a brief illness. I couldn’t post since morning because it was like a dream. Ezigbo Nwanyi Onitsha
“Rest in peace ma’am, my best friend, she always calls me on phone advising me. The last time we spoke was during Queeneth saga, she said Ontop stop. Am still speechless.”
Many Nollywood stars have taken to their social media pages to pay tribute to the deceased actress.
In other news, Nollywood actor, Segun Arinze, has dismissed rumours circulating online that he is sick and needs financial assistance.
Naija News reports that Arinze’s clarification comes after photos of him looking frail with a swollen stomach made the rounds on social media.
However, in a video via his Instagram page on Friday, the thespian said he is hale and hearty.
He clarified that the photos circulating online were taken on a movie set and do not reflect his actual health condition.
Segun Arinze also expressed gratitude to those who had reached out through calls and messages and warned fans against falling for scams.
The movie star cautioned members of the public against giving anybody money in the name of donations for his treatment.
Two prominent traditional rulers from Bayelsa and Delta States have accused President Bola Tinubu of executing the agenda of the Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, in his declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State.
The monarchs, HRM King Dodo II of the Bilabiri Kingdom and HRH King-jerry Prebor (Snr.), the Amananaowei of the Meinbutus Federated Communities, expressed their concerns following the presidential action that suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara and other state officials.
HRH Prebor, who spoke to Saturday Vanguard on the phone, said: “Tinubu’s actions are biased because throughout his broadcast, he never saw anything wrong with the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, who is behind everything happening in Rivers State.
“What the president did is clear, he played the script of Wike whose aim was to impeach Governor Fubara, so the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State is the alternative to the impeachment by Wike. The script read by President Tinubu is the same script written for the Supreme Court to execute Rivers State, which gave the Rivers State House of Assembly the impunity to attempt impeachment of the constitutionally elected governor.
“If the President had sanctioned the minister before taking the kind of action he took, it would have been a different thing, but I am glad that of a truth, the governor is the people’s choice. He is humble and developmental.”
On his part, King Dodo II said, “Rivers State is under oppression and siege. The removal of the governor of the state is not democratic. It shows that the federal government led by Tinubu is dancing to the tune of the FCT minister, Nyesom Wike. Why not sack the minister himself who is the one orchestrating all the ugly happenings in Rivers State? The president should sack Wike, in order to manage the Rivers crisis and prevent it from escalating to other parts of the Niger Delta.”
The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) has asked President Bola Tinubu to reverse the state of emergency declared in Rivers state.
In a statement signed by Abubakar Jika Jiddere, the spokesperson of the forum on Friday, NEF said while the president is empowered under section 305 of the 1999 Constitution 1999 (as amended) to declare a state of emergency on the federation or any part of it, the situation in Rivers does not warrant the proclamation.
“Except perhaps for personal vendetta in alliance with the President’s serving Federal Minister of the FCT and the immediate past Governor of Rivers State, who has been in personal conflict with the suspended Governor for selfish interests rather than public good,” the statement reads.
“The maintenance of peace, public order and corporate existence of the Federal Republic of Nigeria cannot be compromised on personal aggrandizement and should be the primary concern of each Nigerian.
“As such any form of disturbance in any part of the country will have serious negative tendency and impact on the whole country.
“The Federal Government and the President in particular must find a viable and permanent solution to the political crisis in Rivers State, and also immediately lift the suspension of the Governor, Deputy Governor and State Assembly to restore the spirit of democracy, justice and public order.”
The forum advised the federal government not to allow the escalation of political disputes in some other places such as Kano, where there has been a tussle in the state’s traditional institution.
The elders advised Tinubu “to resolve political disputes through negotiation, mediation, conciliation, arbitration and adjudication”.
They warned that “the naked and brutal abuse of political power can only pose imminent danger to the democratic processes in Nigeria which is currently facing serious numerous challenges”.
On Tuesday, Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers and appointed Ibok-Ete Ibas, a retired naval chief, as sole administrator for the state.
On Thursday, the national assembly ratified the president’s decision through voice votes.
[TheCable]
Coconut water, often hailed as a natural electrolyte-rich drink, has become a popular choice for hydration and health benefits. But is it truly as healthy as it’s made out to be?
Let’s take a closer look at its nutritional profile and potential health benefits.
Nutritional Profile
Coconut water is a low-calorie, naturally sweet beverage derived from the liquid found inside young green coconuts. It’s packed with essential nutrients, including potassium, magnesium, calcium, and vitamin C, making it a natural alternative to sports drinks. A single serving (about 8 ounces) typically contains:
Calories: 45-60
Potassium: 600 mg (about 15% of the daily recommended intake)
Sodium: 200-250 mg
Carbohydrates: 9 grams
Sugar: 6 grams
Magnesium: 60 mg
Health Benefits
Hydration
Coconut water is an excellent hydrating beverage. It contains natural electrolytes like potassium and sodium, which help replenish lost fluids after exercise, making it a natural alternative to sports drinks. It’s especially useful for rehydration after physical activity, particularly for those who want to avoid the added sugars and artificial ingredients in many commercial beverages.
Rich In Potassium
Coconut water is one of the best natural sources of potassium, an essential mineral that helps regulate fluid balance, muscle function, and blood pressure. Potassium helps prevent muscle cramps and supports heart health, which is why it’s commonly recommended after intense physical activity.
Supports Heart Health
The magnesium found in coconut water plays a role in maintaining a healthy heart by supporting normal blood pressure and proper muscle function. Some studies suggest that coconut water can help lower blood pressure, especially in people with high blood pressure, thanks to its high potassium and magnesium content.
Rich In Antioxidants
Coconut water contains antioxidants that can help combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the body. Antioxidants neutralize harmful free radicals, which can reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer. Regular consumption of coconut water may promote overall wellness and protect cells from damage.
Aid In Digestion
Coconut water is a natural source of fiber, which is beneficial for digestion. It can help prevent constipation and support healthy gut function. Additionally, the potassium in coconut water can balance electrolytes in the digestive system, helping to alleviate stomach discomfort or bloating.
Considerations and Potential Drawbacks
While coconut water is healthy for many people, there are a few considerations:
Sugar Content: While it’s a natural sugar, the 6 grams of sugar per serving might not be suitable for people who need to monitor their sugar intake, such as those with diabetes.
Caloric Intake: Though low-calorie, drinking coconut water excessively can add up. It’s best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Electrolyte Imbalance: For people with kidney problems or those on medications that affect potassium levels, drinking too much coconut water could pose a risk due to its high potassium content. Always consult a doctor if you have concerns.
Incorporating coconut water into your diet can offer a variety of health benefits, from enhanced hydration to improved heart health and digestion. Its natural electrolytes, antioxidants, and low-calorie profile make it an excellent choice for people seeking a healthy, refreshing beverage. However, like any food or drink, it’s important to consume it in moderation and pay attention to your body’s individual needs.
If you’re looking for a natural, refreshing drink to hydrate and nourish your body, coconut water is a great choice!
Nigerian actress, Regina Daniels has advised her followers on steps to take if their plan A fails.
The actress gave the advice amid separation rumours from her billionaire husband, Senator Ned Nwoko.
DAILY POST reports that Regina Daniels had dropped her marital name after deleting Nwoko from her page and his pictures from her official page on social media platforms.
The development came after rumours that Nwoko was planning to marry actress Chika Ike after welcoming a child with her. A speculation denied by the senator.
In a post shared on her Instagram page on Thursday, the actress advised her followers to always have options. Reminding them that the English alphabet consists of 26 letters (A – Z).
She wrote; “If Plan A fails, remember there are 25 other letters”.
[DailyPost]
Reality TV star and actress Bam Bam has shared a troubling encounter with Nigerian police officers, describing their behavior as “inappropriate and forceful.”
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Bam Bam revealed that after completing a movie shoot, she was stopped by police officers for no reason, ordered to step out of her car, and allegedly asked for money.
Expressing her discomfort and frustration, the actress questioned what might have happened if she had refused their demand.
She emphasized the need for citizens to feel safe around law enforcement, rather than intimidated or harassed.
Bam Bam also highlighted the difference between respectful requests and coercive demands, stressing that tips should be earned through good service, not claimed as an entitlement.
She wrote: “Just wrapped up from a movie set, heading home, and Nigerian police stopped us for no reason—forced us to step down only to start begging for money. What kind of nonsense is this? If we refused, what would they have done?
“He was a bit inappropriate and forceful. I came down, greeted him, he asked if I was okay, I said I’m fine just tired. He said “show me love now” he could have asked from the car window, but my assistant and I were down, we couldn’t drive off so I was forced to give something.
“We shouldn’t see the police and feel uncomfortable but safe. Asking and demanding are two different things. Feeling entitled about your money and tipping because they were respectful and actually doing their job are two different things.
[TheNation]
Seven vessels carrying imported Premium Motor Spirit, popularly called petrol, are expected to berth at seaports along the nation’s borders between Monday, March 17, and Sunday, March 23, Saturday PUNCH reports.
According to a document obtained from the Nigerian Port Authority on Thursday, these vessels carrying 115,000 metric tonnes representing 154.22 million litres of PMS will bring in products through three seaports to improve fuel supply nationwide.
The latest development follows an exclusive report by The PUNCH, which disclosed that the landing cost of imported PMS dropped to N797 per litre.
It also comes amidst the suspension of the sales of petroleum products in naira by the Dangote Petroleum Refinery following a stalled renegotiation of the naira-for-crude deal with the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited.
Domestic crude oil refiners argued that the halt in crude supply in naira was the latest ploy to frustrate the Dangote refinery and bring back the full importation of refined petroleum products.
The National Publicity Secretary of the Crude Oil Refinery-owners Association of Nigeria, Eche Idoko, disclosed that suspending the deal defeats the efforts of all stakeholders to achieve energy security in-country.
He said some persons were aggrieved by the continuous reduction in petrol prices by the Dangote refinery and only used monopolistic talks to bring back importation as an alternative.
True to this fact, the continuous importation of refined products has persisted despite improving local capacity.
Recall that the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority recently stated that the country’s three operational refineries contribute less than 50 per cent of the nation’s daily petrol consumption, with the shortfall being filled with imported products.
An analysis of the document from NPA showed that the commodities landed at the Tincan port in Lagos, the Lekki Deep Seaport in Lagos and the Calabar port in Cross River State.
The document also revealed that the Dangote refinery imported 654,766 metric tonnes of crude oil within the same period.
The first shipment carrying 20,000 metric tonnes of PMS allocated to the West African Port Services berthed at the Dangote terminal on Monday, March 17, 2025, at 4:03 pm.
On the same day, two vessels conveying 20,000 metric tonnes respectively berthed at the Tincan and Calabar seaports.
This was followed by the arrival of a 20,000 metric-tonne Watson vessel on Thursday, March 20, at 3:18 pm. It berthed at the Ecomarine terminal and was handled by a Kach maritime agent.
Similarly, a Binta Saleh ship was scheduled to berth at the Tincan port in Lagos carrying 5,000 metric tonnes of imported petrol on Friday, March 21 at midnight.
On Saturday, March 22, at 11:06 am, another vessel carrying 15,000 metric tonnes of fuel will berth at the Calabar port. It was assigned to Peak Shipping as its agent.
At the same port, a vessel carrying 15,000 metric tonnes of fuel will arrive at the Eco marine terminal on Sunday at 5:10 pm. This means the seven vessels should bring in 115,000 metric tonnes.
Going by the conversion rate of 1,341 litres to one metric tonne, it, therefore, implies that the marketers are bringing in about 154.22 million litres of petrol.
Meanwhile, depot owners have continued to effect an increase in the loading cost of petrol and other refined petroleum products at their depots.
An analysis of data obtained by our correspondent revealing petrol price movements at loading depots on Thursday showed that Rainoil Depot increased its price from N835 to N860 per litre, and MEN depot effected an increase to N860 per litre despite not making sales the previous day.
Pinnacle Depot made a similar price change from N835 to N860 per litre, while Aiteo and Nipco changed their prices to N856 and N860 per litre, respectively, from N835.
[Punch]
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Senate President Godswill Akpabio has debunked insinuations of a $15,000 bribe allegedly parceled to senators to endorse the proclamation of a state of emergency on Rivers State. He has described the rumours as part of a hate campaign directed against his person.
Akpabio spoke for the first time on the swirling rumour in the social media space that he facilitated the disbursement of the dollar for votes in his Maitama residence during the breaking of fast with senators.
Saturday Vanguard reports that the Senate President was alleged to have facilitated the disbursement of the dollars on two consecutive days; first $5,000 on Tuesday and then $10,000 on Wednesday, the eve of the vote on the proclamation.
However, dismissing the allegation as part of the campaign of hate and malice against his person, Akpabio speaking through his Special Adviser on Media, Hon Eseme Eyiboh said:
“I am aware and it is true that since Senator Godswill Akpabio, the president of the Senate assumed that position he has been breaking fast. He did it last year, he did it this year, so why is it turning it into a rumour?”
Asking why Akpabio would be giving out dollars to his colleagues, he continued:
“On the issue of the dollars, he is giving the money for what? I am aware of the breaking of the fast but I can tell you I am not aware and it is not true of the dollars, whether $5,000 or $10,000, people are just conjuring it to be able to give flavour to their malice and hate campaign.
“People are just conjuring the story of the $5,000, $10,000 to add flavour to their malice and hate campaign. He has been doing it. He did it last year, so why is this one associated with money,” Eyiboh asked?
Saturday Vanguard reports that the Senate and the House of Representatives passed the proclamation on a state of emergency in Rivers State with a unanimous voice vote on Thursday.
[Vanguard]
Anthony Joshua has sustained a mysterious injury to the ‘top half of his body’ ahead of his return to action this summer.
Eddie Hearn told talkSPORT.com last month that the long-awaited all-British showdown with Tyson Fury and a rematch against Dubois are the two top options for his client while Joseph Parker, Deontay Wilder and Martin Bakole remain outsiders.
However, Joshua is unable to resume full training after picking up an injury that has left him ‘unable to punch properly’.
Hearn insists the issue will keep AJ out of camp for eight weeks, but wouldn’t reveal the exact injury he suffered.
“Top-half of his body, there you go,” he said when asked for further details.
“Nothing major but it means that he’s been returning to training and it’s not quite ready to turn back to camp.
“He needs about another eight weeks until he can punch properly, you’re looking at what, April-May till he can start camp properly so it leads us to the back end of the summer.”
A rematch with Dubois was initially planned for February but ‘niggles’ ruled Joshua out of the fight.
“AJ desperately wants revenge but the only issue is timing,” Hearn told the BBC earlier this year.
“There are always niggles and he had a few so physically it’s just a case of whether AJ is ready to do that.”
Before losing to Dubois, Joshua was riding a four-fight winning streak.
He bounced back from consecutive losses to Oleksandr Usyk in September 2021 and August 2022 to beat Jermaine Franklin and Robert Helenius in a pair of low-output affairs.
His tentative performances left a lot to be desired but he showed the AJ of old in spiteful stoppage wins over Otto Wallin and Francis Ngannou thereafter.
He entered the Dubois fight in his best form in years and was made the favourite by the bookies.
However, his dream of becoming a three-time heavyweight world champion came crashing down when he was flattened by a dynamite right hand from Dubois in the fifth
The Confederation of African Football has announced the details of the dates, kick-off times and venues for the TotalEnergies CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations, Morocco 2025 fixtures.
The 15th edition of the continental showpiece will be contested by 16 nations between March 30 and April 19, 2025.
A total of four stadiums will play host to matches during the tournament, namely the El Bachir Stadium in Mohammedia, the Larbi Zaouli Stadium and the Berrechid Stadium, which are both Casablanca, as well as the El Abdi Stadium in El Jadida.
Proceedings get underway at the El Bachir Stadium on Saturday, March 30 when tournament hosts Morocco play East African champions Uganda.
The following day will see Tanzania taking on Southern African champions Zambia to close off the opening round of Group A fixtures.
Later in the afternoon, Casablanca’s Larbi Zaouli Stadium hosts an exciting Group B clash between the last edition’s bronze medallists, Burkina Faso and two-time champions Cameroon.
The last fixture of the day, which takes place at the same venue, sees 2015 runners-up South Africa facing off against champions of the 1997 edition Egypt in an exciting north versus south duel.
Group C and D fixtures will take place on Tuesday, April 1 with the reigning champions Senegal headlining the matches.
The defending champions take on The Gambia at the El Abdi Stadium at 14h00, while Somalia, who are making their second appearance at the finals, face off against Tunisia.
In Group D, Mali, who finished fourth in the last edition, take on tournament debutants Angola, while former champions Cote d’Ivoire eye an opening victory against Central African Republic.
The TotalEnergies CAF U-17 AFCON Morocco 2025 also serves as a FIFA World Cup qualifier.
Africa will be represented by 10 teams at the newly expanded showpiece set to take place in Qatar later this year.
Former Juventus midfielder Paul Pigba has expressed his determination to return to full fitness.
The France international who is currently without a club after departing Juventus, is now eligible to return to football following an 18-month ban for a prohibited substance.
Speaking via a video on his Instagram story, Pogba stated that he”s currently in the United States trying to get fit soon.
“So we’re here in Miami, training, try to get fit as soon as possible, you already know the story,” Pogba said on a video on his Instagram story.
“I’m here and there’s some fans around, United fans and Barcelona fans, big up to all of them. This gentleman (the Barcelona fan) tried to challenge me.”
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