The Labour Party (LP) has decried the arrest of its national chairman, Barrister Julius Abure, by a combined team of police officers and operatives of the Department of State Security (DSS) on Wednesday in Benin, Edo State.

The national publicity secretary of the party, Obiora Ifoh, in a statement, shortly after videos of his arrest surfaced online, admitted that the embattled Abure was arrested by Police and DSS operatives, two days to the party’s governorship primaries for the November 2024 governorship election in the state.

According to him, a crowd of protesters on Wednesday besieged the Zone 5 headquarters of the Police Command in Benin City over the arrest of Abure, alongside the state chairman of the party, Mr Kelly Ogbaloi.

“The Labour Party on Tuesday had a very successful delegate election in Benin ahead of the Party Primaries scheduled to hold on Friday. The party chairman only this morning along with party governorship aspirants also kept a scheduled security briefing with the Department of the State Security (DSS).

“Abure was however arrested after the meeting by a combined team of DSS and Police officers. Abure, Ogbaloi and their aides were also manhandled.

“Effort by some party leaders to have access to the Zone 5 headquarters was turned down due to the huge crowd of party supporters who were expressing their displeasure over the arrest of Abure.

“However, a Police source informed the party officials and other governorship aspirants at the gate of the police headquarters that the arrest was in connection to a protest letter by one of the expelled member of the party loyal to Apapa dissident camp.

“The source also confirmed that the arrest was not unconnected to the ongoing party primary and the possible candidate that will emerge which the state government is vehemently opposed to,” Ifoh said.

He said the arrest was to frustrate the primary process and possibly interrupt the party’s participation in the governorship election.

Also the Deputy National Chairman of the party, Dr. Ayo Olurunfemi in video shared by Mr Ifoh insisted that no form of intimidation from the highest quarters can stop the party from concluding the process leading to the emergence of the Labour Party government in the state.

Two members of the national working committee (NWC) of the party had earlier confirmed the development to Daily Trust in Abuja.

The two pleaded not to be named due to the sensitivity of the development and uncertainty of his arrest.

It was reported that Abure was arrested on allegations of premeditated attempted murder, among other alleged infractions.

The arrest followed a petition by a former LP Youth Leader, Comrade Eragbe Anselm Aphimia, who was expelled in the wake of crisis rocking the party in 2023.

The petition, addressed to the Commissioner of Police, Edo State Command, dated February 13, partly reads, “I, Comrade Eragbe Anselm, write to you with utmost urgency and grave concern regarding a heinous act of violence perpetrated against me on the 29th of December 2023.

“I am a member and National Youth Leader of the Labour Party (LP) in Nigeria, and the events I am about to recount are of utmost importance for justice and the safety of individuals involved in political activities.

“On December 28, 2023, I flew into Benin City Airport around 2 p.m. as part of an official 5-member delegation authorised by the Acting National Chairman of the Labour Party, Alhaji Lamidi Basiru Apapa.

“Our mission was to organise Ward, LGA, and State Congresses in Edo State, as well as supervise the sale of nomination forms for various posts, as mandated by INEC guidelines, within the stipulated time frames.

“On arrival at the Benin Airport, I was received by one Mrs Mary Okheime Newberry, who falsely claimed to be providing transportation and accommodation on behalf of unnamed “stakeholders.”

“She proceeded to lodge us at the Smart Homes Hotel, unknown to us that she was plotting a sinister and gruesome ambush. The next morning, a man named Austin Emeka came to pick me and my colleague, Mr Patrick Anethua, up from the hotel lobby, pretending to take us to a meeting venue.

“Instead, we were violently attacked just outside the hotel gates by a waiting mob.”

rRecall that the development is coming on the heels of the suspended embattled national treasurer of the party, Mrs Oluchi Oparah, who accused Abure of mismanaging the funds belonging to the party and asked him to account for the alleged missing N3.5bn realized from the sales of nomination forms for the 2023 general elections.

While Abure denied the allegations, saying the party also made N1.3bn, the NWC of the party, however slammed a six-month suspension on Oparah, for false allegation and failure to appear before a committee to address her allegations and grievances.

This was also followed by the Presidential candidate and National Leader of the party, Mr Peter Obi, asking for an investigation of the party’s finances and records by a reputable audit firm.

Also, on Tuesday, the 36 state chairmen and FCT of the party during a meeting in Abuja rejected the financial fraud allegations against Abure.

The Abia State Chairman and Chairman Council of State Chairmen of LP, Mr Ceekay Igara, led the meeting that also passed a vote of confidence on him and the party’s national leader and presidential candidate, Mr Peter Obi.

Senator Ned Nwoko has urged the administration of President Bola Tinubu to immediately abolish the use of the American dollar and all other foreign currencies in Nigeria, as a means of tackling the current economic hardship faced by Nigerians.

The Senator representing Delta North Senatorial District at the National Assembly, who gave the charge while speaking with THISDAY, on the state of the nation, warned that until the naira was made the only legal tender in Nigeria, nothing much would be achieved from the country’s monetary policy.

While lamenting that Nigeria gained independence over 60 years ago and remain dependent economically on the West, Nwoko, also called for the return of Nigeria’s foreign reserve to the country; to be kept by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and disbursed to manufacturers to boost production.

“We keep talking about monetary policy, nothing is going to work until we stop using the dollar”, he said while pointing out that the biggest problem confronting Nigeria was the use of the dollar and other foreign currencies within the country.

“The president have to stand up and lead, he should not worry about the US and UK”, he said, “we should strive towards economic independence” to move the country forward and meet the aspiration of the people.

The legislator argued that when the use of foreign currencies was prohibited and payments for crude oil are done in naira, there would be demand for naira and its value would appreciate.

He described as an anomaly and insulting for Nigeria to keep her money in a foreign bank which in turn was being used for the development of that country and not in the interest of Nigeria.

Nwoko stated that if what the country have as foreign reserved was brought back to Nigeria, it would help resuscitate many dead and ailing industries as the central bank can then borrow to them at a very low rate of between three and four per cent.

“We just had a meeting with some European Union parliamentarians, I asked the one from Greece if they use the dollar, he said no, I also asked the one from Italy he said no. I asked them if they have foreign reserve, none of them have foreign reserve.

“So why should we?, he queried.

Other measures he urged President Bola Tinubu to deploy include the pegging of interest rate so as to make funds available for local businesses and the prohibition of medical tourism which puts another strain on the nation.

On the worsening insecurity in the country, Nwoko, who dismissed the capacity of the police to protect citizens called for the amendment of the firearm law, which he is currently pushing at the Senate.

He said part of the economic hardship was due to the fact that people could no longer go to the farm again because of the activities of herdsmen, bandits and kidnappers.

“Farmers in Delta State are not able to farm because their crops are being destroyed every day…..why can’t our people be armed to defend themselves as it is done in some other countries”.

He dismissed claims that Nigerians would kill themselves if allowed to carry arms, arguing that, “we are matured not to use knives against one another, then why are we not matured to use guns.”

He suggested a system where a citizen would be licenced to carry arms from his place of origin.

“The certificate would be done by traditional rulers through chiefs who have knowledge of the respective families in their domain. These rulers know family with criminal records as well as mental issues”, he said, adding that the kings would be held responsible if anything goes wrong.

In addition, he said before a licence would be issued, a person’s state of mind would also be assessed by two medical doctors and lastly that the Commissioner of Police and Director of Department of State Service DSS give their approval.

The Senator also called for the permission of local vigilantes to carry sophisticated arms if they must be able to tackle crimes in their communities.

Ohanaeze Ndigbo has called on President Bola Tinubu to dismiss terrorism charges against the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu, as done to a Yoruba activist, Omoyele Sowore.

The apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation made the appeal in a statement signed by it’s Secretary General, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro on Wednesday.

According to Isiguzoro, Consistency and equality before the law are fundamental principles of a just society.

He then implores President Tinubu to extend the same precedent given to Sowore to Nnamdi Kanu without hesitation or delay.

The statement reads “As the impending trial of IPOB Leader Nnamdi Kanu on Terrorism Charges commences on Monday, 26th February 2024, OHANAEZE NDIGBO vehemently advocates for the immediate dismissal of these charges, mirroring the commendable action taken by the Federal Government in dropping the treasonable felony charge against Yoruba activist Omoyere Sowore. President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to Nigeria’s healing process must encompass fairness and impartiality.

“The apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation commends the decision to void the charges against Sowore, emphasising the necessity for equitable treatment under the law. It is imperative that justice is dispensed uniformly, without prejudice or favouritism. OHANAEZE NDIGBO implores President Tinubu to extend this same precedent to Nnamdi Kanu without hesitation or delay.

“Nigerians, most notably the Ndigbo community, fervently urge President Tinubu to direct the Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), to halt Kanu’s trial and withdraw all associated charges, invoking Sections 174(1)(c) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and Section 107(1) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act 2015, akin to the action taken in the Sowore case. Consistency and equality before the law are fundamental principles of a just society.

“OHANAEZE NDIGBO asserts that the liberation of Nnamdi Kanu is imperative for national reconciliation and stability. By aligning the legal treatment with the highest standards of fairness, President Tinubu can significantly promote unity and harmony in the nation. The importance of this decision transcends mere legalities; it underscores a commitment to rectifying historical injustices and fostering a climate of inclusivity.

“Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, the Secretary General of OHANAEZE NDIGBO, affirms that undisclosed diplomatic channels are being utilised to advocate for Kanu’s freedom, recognising the political nuances at play. It is incumbent upon President Tinubu to heed this impassioned appeal, as dropping the charges against Kanu signifies a crucial step towards healing the wounds of the past and ushering in a new era of justice and reconciliation.

“OHANAEZE NDIGBO stands resolute in its call for fairness and equity in the legal system, emphasising that the liberation of Nnamdi Kanu represents a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s quest for genuine unity and progress”.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has warned that the exchange rate of the Naira may further depreciate by about 35 percent this year, adding that this could lead to inflation rate peaking at 44 per cent before the monetary policy tightening could bring the situation under control.

IMF disclosed this in its February 2024 Post–Financing Assessment and Staff Report, noting that the nation’s monetary policy is currently insufficiently tightened to bring inflation below 20 per cent while pressures on the Naira persist.

The report noted that amid the absence of local production and the recent liberalisation of commodity imports, the exchange rate would likely depreciate further.

IMF said Nigeria had been hit by another adverse climate shock in early 2024, following severe flooding in late 2022, which exacerbated the current weakness in agriculture and led to a decline in output and a surge in food prices.

According to the Bretton Woods institution, the country would benefit from developing a comprehensive macroeconomic and growth strategy, in collaboration and with support from development partners.

This, it said, would include aggressive monetary tightening, fiscal adjustment to restore macroeconomic stability, and putting in place climate adaptation measures.

It stressed that domestic demand had weakened due to the steep fall in real incomes – as investments in the oil sector would likely stall due to rising costs, and production declines.

The fund further predicted that the country’s growth could fall to zero in 2024 and only slowly recover to two percent in 2028.

IMF said the uncertainty over Nigeria’s net international reserves level poses additional risks, as would exogenous further shocks that impact external stability, poverty, and food insecurity.

The publication further stated that the fiscal deficit could increase above six percent of GDP in 2024 and 2025, driven in part by increased transfers to quell social unrest (one per cent of GDP) and a rise in the implicit fuel subsidy.

“With limited external financing options and higher expenditures, there is increasing use of CBN and domestic financing. The authorities implement expenditure measures in 2026, for example, phasing out the implicit fuel subsidy but the debt to GDP ratio still rises by six percentage points above the baseline by 2028.

The report stated: “The spike in inflation and rise in uncertainty trigger portfolio outflows, and Nigeria is unable to access Eurobond financing. Reserves decline to $17 billion in 2025. Obligations due under the RFI peak at over eight per cent of officially reported reserves.

“Nigeria would be able to repay the fund, even in the downside scenario. This assumes that the authorities continue to prioritise external debt service. However, debt service would compete directly with urgent humanitarian needs to tackle rising poverty and food insecurity that would need to be prioritised.

“Therefore, even assuming the authorities reserve the remaining SDR allocation for RFI repayments, trade-offs could be severe.

“The uncertainty over Nigeria’s net international reserves level poses additional risks, as would exogenous further shocks that impact external stability, poverty, and food insecurity.”

ECOWAS should lift suspension on Niger, Mali, B/Faso

The Federal Government is trying it’s best to deal with the various problems and it should be given time for it’s efforts to manifest, former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon said yesterday.

Gowon, Nigeria’s war-time leader, who was head of state between 1966 and 1975, spoke at Aso Villa, Abuja after meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

It was the first visit of the 89-year-old elder statesman to the seat of power since May 29 last year when President Tinubu assumed office.

Speaking to reporters, Gowon, who led the country during the 1967 to January 1970 civil war, also urged the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to lift the sanction imposed on Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger Republic, following military takeover of power, in the interest of peace.

Gowon is one of the founding fathers of ECOWAS in 1975.

The former head of state told reporters: “I was telling him (Tinubu) that there’s no Nigerian leader that will not get all of these (criticisms), all that is being said about him.

“Certainly, there is no doubt about all one has heard and seen from the media.

“I think the government is trying it’s best to deal with the various problems.

“All one can say to Nigerians is that they have to give the President time to get things done.

“It is too early to say the perfect result will be achieved. That is my opinion.

“At least, if I remember, I was told that I was too slow fighting the war, that probably Nigeria would not make it and that we should seek for discussion.

“Well, did we do it or not? They probably did not know the problems on the ground then”.

The former military leader called for peace in the sub-region, saying, “Being the surviving leader among the founding fathers of ECOWAS, I think we had to discuss some of his (Tinubu) plans to see what can be done to bring the matter under control.”

Gen. Gowon pleaded in a letter to ECOWAS Commission President Dr. Omar Alieu Touray for dialogue.

The letter reads: “I have noted with deep concern and sadness, the past and recent developments unfolding in the West African sub-region, particularly the pronouncement by Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger of their intention to exit from ECOWAS.

“As one of the founders of our regional economic community, it is incumbent upon me to speak on behalf of the 14 Heads of State and Government who joined me in Lagos, on 27th May 1975, to establish ECOWAS.

“Since its inception, the regional bloc has made a number of major accomplishments, including trade liberalisation, the right of West Africans to live legitimately in any country within the Community, as well as successful peacekeeping operations in Liberia and Sierra Leone.

“ECOWAS, despite its shortcomings, has become an example of regional integration for the wider continent.

“Having achieved all of the above, it saddens me to learn that ECOWAS is threatened with disunity following the announcement by Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger, three important member states, of their intention to leave the Community.

“The impact of such a decision will have far-reaching implications for the ordinary citizens who have been the major beneficiaries of regional integration.

“Therefore, on behalf of all the founding fathers of the Community and myself, I urge the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, including the leaders of Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger, to put aside their differences and reunite for the peace, stability and prosperity of our sub-region.

“I call on all West African leaders to immediately consider the implementation of the following: lifting of all sanctions that have been imposed on Burkina Faso, Guinea, Mali and Niger;

“Withdrawal by Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger of their notices to leave ECOWAS; and participation of all 15 ECOWAS Heads of State in a Summit to discuss the future of the community, regional security and stability, as well as the role of the international community given the current geopolitical context;

“I wish to once more reiterate to regional leaders that ECOWAS is more than a coalition of states.

“It is a community established for the good of our people based on shared history, culture and tradition.

“Neither my generation nor present or future generations will understand or forgive the breakup of our Community.”

An undercover investigation has exposed how officers of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) update smugglers on the itinerary of their colleagues in a bid to facilitate the movement of smuggled goods. 

The undercover investigation “Undercover as a Smuggler” was carried out by Fisayo Soyombo, an investigative journalist and founder of the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ).

Soyombo attempted to illegally import 100 bags of rice from the Republic of Benin into Nigeria to prove how porous the country’s borders are.

The investigative journalist succeeded in transporting the bags of rice without resistance from security operatives, owing to information provided by some officials of the NCS.

In the report, Soyombo narrated how he linked up with a smuggler identified as Jide, who in turn linked him with one Alaba at Ilaro, a town in Ogun state.

The investigative journalist also narrated how he and the smugglers travelled from Ilaro, through Olorulekan, Ebute, Oja-Odan and Ologiri to Adja-Ouèrè, a trading town in the Benin Republic, to buy the bags of rice.

After the purchase of the bags of rice in November 2022, they were transported through the forest by some motorcycles to Oja-Odan for temporary storage before being moved to Ilaro.

However, there was a delay in the transportation of the rice from Oja-Odan to Ilaro because one of the smugglers said he had not been given instructions by some NCS officials.

“There is someone who controls each of those roads, even the road leading right to the border,” Soyombo quoted the smuggler as saying.

“They are customs bosses; you have to be under one of them. You have to let them in on your plans, your movement. They are the ones who tell you the specific days and hours when you can move. Once you have their permission, you have no problem.”

After some days, the smugglers were yet to receive signals from the customs officers for the transportation of the rice to Ilaro.

Subsequently, the bags of rice were sold off after customs officers raided a smuggling safe house in Oja-Odan. 

In April 2023, the investigative journalist embarked on the second phase of the trip.

“Things pace faster than usual on April 5, 2023, the day I resume in Ilaro for phase two of my mission,” he wrote.

“We had seen the stalls back in November, so it was unnecessary to re-enter Benin Republic. Instead, I make payments and wait in Ilaro while the motorcycle smugglers move the 100 bags to Oja-Odan through the forests.

“Then we begin the arduous wait for the rogue Customs officers to grant permission for smuggling by road. It takes only six days this time.”

You can read the full investigation here.

‘NIGERIA’S SMUGGLING PROBLEM’

Over the years, smuggling has been blamed for the widespread of fake products, arms, and prohibited goods among others in the country.

In 2019, former President Muhammadu Buhari closed some of the country’s borders to encourage local production of food, especially rice.

The border closure was criticised by some economists who believed that the country could not singlehandedly feed its citizens.

In May 2023, Buhari said Nigerians would eventually appreciate the border closure, adding that God can effectively guard the borders of the country.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission will arraign the immediate-past governor of Kwara State, Abdulfattah Ahmed, for alleged N10bn fraud on Friday, The PUNCH has learnt.

Credible sources in the anti-graft agency said the ex-governor would be dragged before the Federal High Court in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital.

“He is going to be arraigned on Friday at the Federal High Court in Ilorin for diversion of funds, amounting to N10bn,” the source told our correspondent.

The ex-governor has been detained by the EFCC since Monday when he honoured an invitation for interrogation.

AFCON 2023: Super Eagles Ends Continental Cup Campaign With Silver Ware0:00 / 0:00

His Chief Press Secretary, Alhaji AbdulWahab Oba, confirmed his principal’s visit to the EFCC office on Monday, stating that it was only “procedural and routine”.

“Dr Ahmed’s visit to the EFCC is procedural and routine. He was invited and he honoured them as he’s always done. He’s always ready to respond to any query or question regarding his tenure as a governor of the state.”

On Tuesday night, Oba lamented that the EFCC was still holding on to Ahmed, saying he was given stringent bail conditions.

“Yes, he is still with the EFCC and we are now in a dilemma over the issue because they keep changing the goalpost during the match. The case is taking a new dimension, which we don’t really understand for now.

“Initially they said they wanted him to produce two sureties who are federal directors. The sureties came and were asked to provide landed properties in Abuja. We see this as a contradiction. The case was initially handled by the EFCC office in Abuja before it was transferred to Ilorin over the issue of jurisdiction. Additionally, he has been denied access to his doctors, medication and direct access to his cook,” Oba said.

Meanwhile, members of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party in Kwara State on Wednesday staged a peaceful protest to the EFCC zonal office in Ilorin, where Ahmed was being detained.

The protesters, who carried placards with various inscriptions, expressed displeasure over Ahmed’s detention.

Led by the state Publicity Secretary of the PDP, Olusegun Adewara, the party members alleged that the All Progressives Congress in the state was behind Ahmed’s troubles.

Some of the inscriptions on their placards read: “EFCC should stop being a tool in the hands of Abdulrazaq led-APC”, “Governor Ahmed was very transparent”, “EFCC is not a department in the APC, EFCC, stop the harassment”, “The opposition cannot be silenced”, “Maigida will not join the APC no matter the persecution”, “EFCC, don’t instigate political crisis in Kwara State”, “No to illegal detention. Respect the rule of law”, among others.

But addressing the protesters, the zonal commander of the EFCC, Michael Nzekwe, said Ahmed had been given an administration bail but he could not meet the conditions.

“We’re wrapping up. Once we wrap up, the law will take its course. The anti-graft agency, being a creation of law, would not go contrary to law.

“Everything we’ve done is within the ambit of the law. The former governor is cooperating with us and we’re making good progress following rules of law. As I speak, he’s with his lawyer, a SAN; he attends to everyone who comes to see him, and he has a doctor who has attended to him. He eats what he wants to eat. I urge us to allow the law take its course. We’re not partisan nor prompted by anybody. This body is solely sponsored by the Federal Government,” Nzekwe said.

Bayo Onanuga, special adviser to President Bola Tinubu on information and strategy, says Binance and other crypto platforms should be banned from operating in Nigeria.

In an X post on Wednesday, he also said foreign exchange (FX) aggregator, abokiFX, should be banned again.

Onanuga made the statement while reacting to a comment by Mikael C. Bernard, an X user, who shared posts on cryptocurrency and FX rates.

The presidential aide said Bernard stated in an X post that “Naira is going to zero”.

Onanuga’s statement is coming amid the continuous depreciation of the naira, which fell to N1,900/$ at the parallel section of the FX market on February 20, 2024.

The naira declined by 9.83 percent from N1,730/$ recorded on February 19.

In his post, the special adviser said Binance is “blatantly setting exchange rate for Nigeria,” and hijacking the role of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

He said the cryptocurrency trading platform is facing restrictions in multiple jurisdictions, such as the United States, Singapore, Canada and the United Kingdom.

“According to Data Wallet, Binance is prohibited in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority from conducting any regulated activities. In Japan, the Financial Services Agency (FSA) banned Binance for operating without the necessary regulatory approval,” the presidential aide said.

“Ontario, Canada, has also suspended Binance services following its inability to meet the province’s securities regulation criteria. The Monetary Authority of Singapore also banned Singaporean investors from accessing Binance’s services.

“Binance, facing regulatory showdown in many countries, and causing disruptions in the currency market, should not be allowed to dictate the value of the Naira, not on its crypto exchange platform.

“Other crypto platforms such as Kucoin, Bybit should be banned from operating in our cyberspace. FX platform Aboki should be re-banned.”

Onanuga called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the CBN to move against the platforms, adding that the firms are trying to “manipulate our national currency to ground zero”.

He also said crypto should be banned in the country “or else this bleeding of our currency will continue unabated”.

Onanuga’s call for a ban on cryptocurrency trading platforms followed the directive of the CBN on February 5, 2021, to banks, non-bank financial institutions (NBFIs), and other financial institutions (OFIs), to close accounts of persons or entities involved in crypto transactions.

The regulator also warned local financial institutions against dealing in crypto assets or facilitating payments for crypto exchanges.

CBN cited concerns over money laundering, terrorism financing, cybercrime, and the volatility of cryptocurrencies as reasons for the ban.

In a report on April 7, 2022, CBN fined six banks N1.31 billion for flouting the directive on crypto accounts.

However, on December 22, 2023, CBN lifted the ban on cryptocurrency transactions and issued operational guidelines on virtual assets service providers (VASPs) to all banks and other financial institutions (OFIs).

Also, on September 17, 2021, Godwin Emefiele, former CBN governor, said the financial regulator was investigating abokiFX, a forex rates tracker, and Oniwinde Adedotun, the founder.

Emefiele alleged that Oniwinde uses his website for forex manipulations and speculations by purchasing forex to make a profit.

CBN, however, on July 25 2023, asked banks to vacate a post-no-debit restriction placed on AbokiFX account.

The Labour Party yesterday confirmed the arrest of its National Chairman, Julius Abure, in Benin City, Edo State.

State Chairman Comrade Kelly Ogbaloi, Ken Omusi, Simeon Obehi, and two others were also arrested.

A statement by the spokesperson of the Zone 5 covering Edo and Delta States, Tijani Momoh, said Abure and the others were arrested yesterday afternoon for alleged conspiracy, brutal assault, attempted murder, robbery, grievous harm, and conduct likely to cause breach of peace.

The statement reads: “The arrest follows a petition addressed to the Inspector-General of Police (IG) Kayode Egbetokun, which was endorsed by Office of the IG to the AIG Zone 5, Benin, for investigation.

“Detectives of Zone 5, upon surveillance and with warrants of arrest, apprehended Abure, Ogbaloi and others with a pump-action gun and three rounds of live ammunition. It is expedient to state that contrary to false narratives on the social media, Abure was not assaulted by the police detectives.

“While effecting the arrest, some persons with Abure obstructed the detectives and made Abure sit on the ground to curry sympathy from the public.

“The AIG Zone 5 Headquarters, Benin City, Arungwa Nwazue, has directed speedy investigation into the matter, and anyone found culpable will be arraigned in court.”

But the Lamidi Apapa group said Abure was arrested in connection with alleged forgery and perjury, according to a statement by the faction’s National Publicity Secretary, Abayomi Arabambi.

The statement reads: “Abure’s arrest today (yesterday) was in connection with the police investigation report that indicted and established a prima facie case of forgery, perjury and criminal conspiracy over his involvement in the forgery of the signature of a FCT High Court Judge, Commissioners of Oath, and generating his own receipts from the Treasury Single Account (TSA).

“His arrest is also connected to the arson and attempted murder of our National Youth Leader.”

The Trade Union Congress has backed out of the planned two-day nationwide protest declared by the Nigeria Labour Congress over the high cost of living, inflation, insecurity, and hardship in the country.

The Vice-President of the TUC, Tommy Etim, told The PUNCH on Wednesday that the decision to protest on February 27 and 28 as announced by the NLC was not taken collectively by both unions.

The TUC in a letter dated February 19, 2024, written by its Secretary General, Dr Nuhu Toro, said the NLC unilaterally took the decision on the planned protest.

Etim in the interview with one of our correspondents, confirmed the letter addressed to the NLC President, Mr Joe Ajaero, adding that “by the virtue of the letter, there is no way we can join the protest.”

This is happening as the Department of State Services warned organised Labour against the planned mass action, saying it could be hijacked.

The NLC had on February 16 declared a two-day protest which would begin after the expiration of the 14-day ultimatum it issued to the Federal Government which will expire on February 22 (today).

The warning was on account of the alleged failure of the government to implement the agreements reached on October 2, following the removal of the fuel subsidy and other economic reforms which had triggered higher transportation costs, inflation, and general hardship.

The situation had provoked protests across the country with youths, and women taking to the streets over the food inflation and higher cost of living.

The NLC and TUC earlier on February 8 gave a two-week ultimatum to the government to meet demands ranging from wage increments to improved access to public utilities and accused it of failing to uphold pledges to soften the impact of reforms.

Briefing journalists in Abuja after an emergency National Executive Council meeting on the state of the economy and matters related to insecurity in the country, the NLC President, Joe Ajaero, also accused the Federal Government of failing to implement the agreement reached in October.

On Monday, the Head of Information of the NLC, Benson Upah, said the NLC affiliates were being mobilised for the protest just as state chapters of the congress vowed to join the nationwide demonstration.

The PUNCH had on Tuesday reported that one of the NLC affiliates, National Union of Public Service Reportorial, Secretarial, Data Processors, and Allied Workers Union, in a letter dated February 18, 2024, written by its Secretary General, Duro Adebisi, directed its members to join the NLC planned protest.

But in a new twist, another Labour centre, the TUC, in the letter written by its Secretary General, Toro, faulted the process adopted by the NLC in fixing the dates for the protests.

Confirming the latest position of the TUC, the Vice-President, Etim, noted, “We cannot join the protest because the decision was not taken collectively. It is very clear that by virtue of the letter, there is no way we can join the protest.”

In the letter obtained by this newspaper on Wednesday, Toro recalled that the decision to issue a two-week ultimatum to the government was jointly taken by the NLC and TUC.

He noted that the right thing after the expiration of the warning on Thursday (today) was for the leaders of the two unions to review the situation and agree on the way forward prior to convening their respective national executive councils’ meetings.

TUC tackles Ajaero

It read, “We are writing to address a matter of mutual concern and our disappointment regarding the recent unilateral issuance of two days’ national protest with specified dates.

“You will recall that both centres issued a joint statement with a 14-day ultimatum to the Federal Government. This ultimatum will expire on Thursday, February 22nd, and the right thing to do was for both leaders to review the situation and agree on the way forward prior to convening our respective NEC meetings.

“Our respective NEC is made up of highly intelligent individuals who are desirous that we both work together always in our collective interest. Even if we didn’t anticipate our NEC decision meetings, it is our responsibility as leaders to harmonise our positions before jointly going to the press.

“It was our understanding that decisions of such magnitude would be made collectively, ensuring that the interests and perspectives of all parties involved are duly considered.

“This is the way other leaders of both centres have worked together from the time of SECSCAN to when TUC was formally registered.’’

The TUC further complained that this was the third time Ajaero would be taking a unilateral decision, adding that various interventions to correct the anomaly had failed.

“It is important to stress that this is the third time such a unilateral declaration has happened under your leadership; we are therefore constrained to formally put this on record as various discussions, communications, and interventions have failed. A first and second time could pass as human error, but a third time would, in our opinion, translate to an intentional act to undermine us.

“Again, recall that we requested that both congresses jointly develop an MOU (memorandum of understanding) that will clearly guide and define our collaboration on issues of mutual interest to avoid situations like this, which have not seen the light of day,’’ the TUC stated.

Though the TUC said it was not opposed to the protest declaration, Toro emphasised that the TUC had an issue with the NLC taking a decision on an issue the two unions agreed to work on.

The letter noted, “Comrade President, also note that we are not averse to the issuance of your resolution because our members equally feel the pain, even if it’s a weeklong national strike, but we have a huge problem with the unilateral declaration for a process we both mooted and agreed to.

“Because our members are equally concerned about the rising cost of living and not particularly the ultimatum, why can’t we see through the ultimatum that expires within the same period before jointly addressing other issues of mutual concern or, at worst, consolidating them?

“At best, when the NLC conveys its NEC meeting on a subject of mutual concern, courtesy demands that we ought to have been informed so we can synergize on the way forward and not jump the gun.

“We cannot be seen to undermine the process of synergy and collaboration between both centres that predates the current leadership of both congresses.

“For the avoidance of doubt, we fully understand that NLC is an independent labour centre that has the right to make independent decisions. It is pertinent that when such decisions are taken unilaterally, there is a need to go ahead and implement them unilaterally.’’

The union further said, “We wish to postulate that both centres have demonstrated severally that we both have the capacity to go solo, but my comrade President, you will agree with the slogan we couched for this unity that “we are always stronger together,” and that shouldn’t be taken for granted.

“We want you to always remember that we have teeming members that we lead and are answerable to, and when such an abnormality happens, the leadership has the right to defend the sanctity of its congress.

“Recall that this same issue of unilateral decision was what made us stay away from the two-day warning strike that you staged in September last year.

“The entire world noticed our collective strength when the governor of Imo State overstepped his bounds, and we rose to the occasion.

“That is the kind of synergy and collaboration that we yearn for, and we strongly believe the Nigerian working people and the downtrodden are looking forward to our collaborative efforts to work together.

“As you are aware of our previous discussions that cumulated into a late-night meeting at the NUEE Lodge, Utako last year after the unilateral decision of a two-day warning strike and several other interventions that emphasised the importance of mutual respect, collaboration, and effective communication in matters affecting workers and the masses.

“Congress was greatly taken aback and dismayed to learn that you addressed the press and announced the dates for the nationwide protest without consulting us. Making arrangements for the press is even an indication that you have an idea of what the outcome of the NEC meeting will be. This action undermines the spirit of solidarity and cooperation that we have worked hard to foster.

Related News
NLC insists on planned protest, knocks DSS
Shelve your planned protests, DSS urges labour leaders
Cost of living protest: Police warn against violence as Labour gives fresh conditions
“Nonetheless, we wish to state that such unilateral actions are contrary to the principles of our shared understanding and collaboration. In order to uphold the integrity of our partnership and ensure that the voices of all workers are heard, it is imperative that decisions of this nature be made through open dialogue and consensus-building.

“We kindly urge you to reconsider your approach and to engage in meaningful consultation with all parties moving forward, as we will always do the same when the table turns. By doing so, we can reaffirm our commitment to working together for the betterment of workers’ rights and welfare.”

The NLC could not be reached for comment on the TUC’s position last night as its spokesperson, Benson Upah, did not take phone calls. He also did not reply to a message requesting his response to the development.

DSS warns Labour

Speaking on the planned protests, the DSS spokesman, Peter Afunanya, in a statement on Wednesday called on the NLC to shelve the plan.

He urged the NLC not to embark on the protests in the interest of peace and public order, stating that going ahead with the protests could increase tension across the country.

The statement read, “The attention of the DSS has been drawn to plans by sections of the organised labour to stage protests between 27th and 28th February 2024 in parts of the country over sundry economic issues.

“While the service recognises such an action as the legitimate right of the labour movement, it, however, urges the body to shelve the plan in the interest of peace and public order.

“The DSS further calls on parties to pursue dialogue and negotiation rather than engaging in conducts that could heighten tensions.

“This is more so that the service is aware that some elements are planning to use the opportunity of the protest to foment crisis and by extension, widespread violence. The development, without doubt, will worsen the socio-economic situation across the country.”

It urged opposition groups, religious and traditional institutions, civil society, and non-governmental bodies to eschew violence.

“Making political capital out of the current situation or involving in divisive utterances at a time like this, will be of no benefit to any peace-loving Nigerian. Citizens are advised to be vigilant and not allow fifth columnists and hostile forces or agents to use them to destabilise the peace of the nation, “ it warned.

Ajaero faults DSS

Reacting to the DSS advisory, the NLC President, Ajaero, accused the agency of blackmail, noting that it was concerned by the unsolicited advice from the security outfit.

Ajaero said the DSS could not blackmail labour to halt the planned mass action which he said was called to protest against “the unprecedented high cost of living despite the indescribable suffering in the land, spiralling inflation, deepening poverty and the Naira at an exchange rate of N1,900 to the US dollar.’’

According to the NLC, the DSS’ statement presupposed that the action was intended to be violent and disruptive “even when we have a history of peaceful protests.’’

“Our protest is a peaceful one against the unpardonable cost of living of which the unserviced personnel of the service are also victims. We cannot fold our hands and pretend all is well. That will be a grievous conspiracy that history will not forgive,” the labour leader submitted.

He took a swipe at the secret police for allegedly making wild allegations and speaking as the mouthpiece of the government.

Ajaero stressed that it was more worrying that the DSS had a new role assigned to itself as the chief spokesperson of the government.

“We are equally intrigued by the innuendos of the Service, their philosophy of peace and wild allegations and we want to reassure them that no one loves this country more than us and, on our honour, we would never do anything that will compromise its sovereignty or security,” Ajaero said.

Meanwhile, the Federal Government said it had reviewed the commitments made with the organized Labour in the agreement signed on October 2, 2023.

This was contained in a statement signed by the Minister of State Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, on Wednesday.

The minister said the government had paid four out of six months of the minimum wage award of N35,000, adding that the minimum wage committee, which was inaugurated on January 30, 2024, had held two meetings and discussions were ongoing.

Onyejeocha said, “On the payment of wage award of N35,000 for six months, the government has so far paid for four months up to 31st December 2023. The remaining two months of January and February 2024 are being processed.

“On the minimum wage committee, the government has on 30th January 2024, inaugurated a 37 -member tripartite committee on national minimum wage to review and come up with an acceptable and sustainable minimum wage for Nigerian workers.

“The committee has so far held two meetings and discussions are ongoing. The government has constantly engaged various state governments and the private sector on the issue of the implementation of wage award for their workers and this has been receiving favourable compliance by state governments. The government will continue to use all relevant channels to ensure the sustainability of the programmes.

“With respect to the suspension of collection of value added tax on diesel for six months beginning from October 2023, this was effected immediately. It is on record, that no one has been subjected to this form of taxation since October 2023.”

On the provision of CNG buses and conversion kits, she explained that the government had so far made substantial financial commitments in this area.

She added that the buses would be rolled out very soon to alleviate the transportation challenges being faced by Nigerians.

The minister further stated, “On the issue of various tax incentives as contained in the agreement, the government has commenced a series of engagements with relevant stakeholders while all necessary machinery is being put in place for effective implementation.’’

She added the crises rocking transport unions had been amicably resolved.

The minister added, “Concerning the outstanding salaries and wages of tertiary education workers in federal institutions, the government disclosed that it paid in full the four months outstanding salaries to the Academic Staff Union of Universities as approved by the President.’’

Onyejeocha added that 3,140,819 households including vulnerable pensioners had benefitted from the N25,000 monthly conditional cash transfer amounting to N68.3bn before the programme’s temporary suspension.

To ascertain the level of rehabilitation of the refineries in the country, the minister noted that a joint visitation by the government and organized Labour was successfully carried out on Wednesday and “it was established that the Port-Harcourt Refinery is 80 per cent completed. Production of Premium Motor Spirit will commence before the end of the year.”

Speaking further on food security, she said “With respect to the issue of subsidized distribution of fertilizers to farmers across the country, the government has made tremendous progress in this regard to ensure effective distribution to farmers to boost agricultural production.

“In order to encourage micro and small enterprises as contained in Mr President’s broadcast on 1st August 2023 to the nation, plans have reached an advanced stage to accelerate the process of job creation through the release of funds to micro and small-scale businesses.”

She stated that the Federal Government was committed to social dialogue with organised labour and other stakeholders towards achieving industrial peace and harmony while prioritizing workers’ welfare.