Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has ruled out any possibility of reconciling with Rivers State Governor Sim Fubara, intensifying the ongoing political conflict between the two leaders.

Speaking during a media chat broadcast live on television in Abuja, yesterday, he criticised Fubara for failing to adhere to directives issued by President Bola Tinubu during a peace meeting aimed at resolving their differences.

At the press briefing, Wike said: “I’m wondering what conflict to resolve? Mr President, in his wisdom, called all parties. He said withdraw the impeachment notice, you go and do this, you go and do that, but they never returned to him.

“The Assembly withdrew the impeachment notice; you did one and two, and then you sent people to go to court. Elder, have you gone back to Mr. President to tell him we can’t do three and four? Nothing.

“I have never seen this in my life — for a president to call parties, and one party goes back and says it’s political. Who does that?”

His statement underscored the deepening rift that has emerged since Fubara took office, with Wike accusing him of not fulfilling his obligations as governor.

The feud has escalated tensions within the Rivers State House of Assembly, where 27 members have defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC), leading to factionalism and a parallel assembly.

The political landscape in Rivers has been marked by power struggles as both leaders vie for control over state resources and influence.

Wike also defended his infrastructure-focused agenda amid criticism for neglecting human capital development. “Infrastructure drives the economy.”

He asserted that ongoing road projects are creating significant job opportunities, highlighting that over 200 people are employed through these initiatives in Kwali and surrounding areas, emphasizing, “These aren’t government positions; they are real opportunities.” He challenged the notion that employment is limited to government jobs, reinforcing his commitment to fostering local economic growth through infrastructure development.

He said: “The problem I have is that whenever we embark on these projects, people complain about what hasn’t been done, but the reality is that infrastructure drives the economy.

“When we focus on infrastructure, human capital development naturally follows. It’s not just about government jobs, it’s about creating real opportunities.

“Not less than 200 people are being employed in Kwali and other areas. These aren’t government positions, these are people working as contractors and in other capacities that come with the development of our infrastructure.”

On concerns over the provision of streetlights on newly commissioned roads, Wike, while noting that the initial plans had not included streetlights, assured that the FCTA had taken action to address the issue.

“When we flagged off these projects last year, there was no provision for streetlights. But now, in places like Kuje and Kwali, streetlights have been provided,” Wike confirmed. “The roads we flagged off in November and December will have streetlights by May or June.”

The Minster issued a stern warning to officials and landowners in Abuja, emphasising strict adherence to land regulations.

He reiterated his commitment to expediting the issuance of Certificates of Occupancy (C of O), crucial for business growth and financing. Wike highlighted that his administration has already signed 7,000 C of Os in two years, surpassing the 7,000 issued by previous governments from 2015 to 2023. He vowed to take decisive action against non-compliance, stating that inefficiency within his team will not be tolerated

He said: “When I identify that you are not willing to work, I will kick you out,” disclosing the concluded decision to remove two directors from FCT Administration.

“I don’t give a damn. When I see you’re not working, I will kick you out. Heaven will not fall.”

According to him, a staggering N300 billion is being owed for Right of Occupancy (R of O) fees, arguing it is part of what is  delaying infrastructure development in the federal capital.

Wike emphasised that with revenue generation exceeding N25 billion, the timely payment of taxes and the resolution of backlogs are crucial for the growth and development of the Federal Capital Territory. He underscored that these financial measures are essential to support ongoing projects and enhance the territory’s infrastructure.

“Government gave you land, and you can’t go and pay over 15 to 16 years, what kind of country are we in?” He asked.

On recent acts of vandalism that have plunged significant parts of Abuja into darkness, he vowed that those responsible will be charged with economic sabotage rather than theft. This declaration came during a media briefing on Sunday evening, where Wike expressed his outrage over the damage inflicted on critical transmission infrastructure.

He revealed that authorities have already arrested several suspects linked to the vandalism of a 132kV transmission line and underground cables owned by the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN). The minister made it clear that the charges would reflect the severity of the crime, stating, “We won’t charge you with stealing; we will charge you with economic sabotage. Enough is enough.”

He stressed that such actions threaten not only the stability of the capital but also the broader economic framework of the nation.

Vandalism has had a significant impact on daily life in Abuja, leaving over 60% of the city without electricity. Areas severely affected include Wuse, Utako, Jabi, Maitama, Lifecamp, Asokoro, Mabushi, and parts of the Presidential Villa, which houses President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima.

The TCN attributed the power outages directly to these criminal acts, highlighting the urgent need for action against those who disrupt essential services.

Wike urged residents of the FCT to take an active role in safeguarding their communities by reporting any suspicious activities. “Nobody who loves his country will accept what is going on,” he stated, reinforcing the idea that community involvement is crucial in combating such acts of sabotage.

He assured citizens that security agencies are diligently working to address the situation and that those involved in the vandalism will face justice.

Urges FG to consolidate fiscal policies

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has retained its 2025 growth projection for Nigeria at 3.2 per cent, signaling moderate optimism about the country’s economic recovery.

However, the IMF urged Federal Government to strengthen and consolidate its fiscal policies to ensure sustainable growth and public debt sustainability.

In its World Economic Outlook (WEO) published at the weekend titled, Global Growth: Divergent and Uncertain (January 2025), the Washington, USA-based institution said growth in Nigeria was projected to gradually decline in 2026 to three per cent, adding that the 3.2 per cent projection for 2025 pointed to the fact that emerging markets like Nigeria showed relative stability, contributing to the broader growth trajectory.

Also, it said the economic growth forecast for sub-Saharan Africa was retained at 4.2 per cent for 2025, projecting similar growth in 2026.

IMF raised its 2025 growth forecast to 3.3 per cent, up from 3.2 per cent in October 2024, and added that growth for 2026 was also expected to remain at 3.3 per cent.

It said: “The forecast for 2025 is broadly unchanged from that in the October 2024 WEO, primarily on account of an upward     revision in the United States offsetting downward revisions in other major economies.”

The IMF explained that global headline inflation is expected to decline to 4.2% in 2025 and 3.5% in 2026, converging back to the target earlier in advanced economies than in emerging markets and developing economies.

Offering guidance on how to manage inflation, the lender emphasised that monetary policy should aim to restore price stability while also supporting economic activity and employment.

“In economies where inflationary pressures persist and the risk of unexpected increases is high, a restrictive stance should be maintained until there is clearer evidence that inflation is returning to target sustainably.

“In economies in which activity is cooling fast and inflation is on track to durably go back to target, a less restrictive stance is justified. In either case, fiscal policy should consolidate to put public debt on a sustainable path and restore the space needed for more agile responses,” the IMF said.

The lender also stressed the importance of fiscal policy consolidation, recommending that it be aligned with the goal of placing public debt on a sustainable path while creating room for more responsive policy actions.

Labour fears hike will fuel food crisis

Increase in line with rising crude price –Dangote

The Nigeria Labour Congress has frowned on the recent hike in the pump prices of Premium Motor Spirit, popularly called petrol, describing it as the height of insensitivity against the masses.

Senior NLC officials disclosed this in separate interviews with our correspondents on Sunday, as oil marketers refuted being blamed for the recent hike in PMS prices nationwide.

Similarly, the Dangote Petroleum Refinery also said the rise in petrol price was not from the $20bn Lekki-based plant but due to an increase in the cost of crude oil, the major component for refined petroleum products.

Recall that on Friday, the pump prices of petrol rose to between N1,050 and N1,150 per litre following the hike in the cost of the commodity by the Dangote Petroleum Refinery and various depot owners.

Dealers confirmed that PMS prices would continue to rise since the major component in fuel production, crude oil, has been on the upward swing lately.

Reacting to this, the Deputy President of Nigeria Labour Congress Political Commission, Prof Theophilus Ndubuaku argued that in a saner clime, representatives of workers, the organised private sector and students would have been called to a roundtable to deliberate on the course of action and analysis of the consequences before the decision would be taken.

He said, “This pump price hike will not only affect foodstuff and fare. There is the problem of inflation and the value of naira to contend with. Instead, what we are seeing is a situation we call Tinubunomics. It is something that has not been tested.

“When you talk about subsidies, is there a country that doesn’t have it? It’s all over the world. Even most of the goods you see in this country from China are subsidised. You are refusing to subsidise fuel and also refusing to even facilitate the so-called CNG buses. How many years does it take to do something like this?

“If you know the kind of game we (the NLC) and them are playing on this CNG thing. Now, they are not even involving the people in the so-called CNG conversion. If you promise to run an inclusive government, It’s not just you that should be doing the talking. Yet, when somebody talks, they send attack dogs to attack and label him a member of the Obidient movement.”

Continuing, Ndubuaku emphasised that President Bola Tinubu will do well to borrow the template of former leaders like Olusegun Obasanjo, who he claimed held a monthly roundtable with stakeholders whenever sensitive issues that have a lot to do with workers’ welfare were being discussed.

“Such discussions were held in the Villa. Every month people would be invited and issues would be discussed. We’re not saying you shouldn’t do it. But please, carry people along. Let us know why you want to do these things so people will be prepared.

“But you can’t just keep changing the prices without any regard for us? This is what is causing all this frustration. They are not carrying the masses along. They have virtually made it difficult for the NLC to be involved in anything they are doing. Nigeria is not the personal property of anybody.

“If you are going to do anything that will involve the masses, you should call the people who represent the workers at least. You have certain blocks and groups of people in this country that have representatives, even in the so-called business sector that you can talk to,” he explained.

Labour tackles marketers

Also speaking on the hike in petrol price, the Chairperson of the Nigeria Labour Congress in Lagos State, Sessi Funmi, accused oil marketers of being major contributors to Nigeria’s economic challenges, describing them as “enemies of the masses.”

Speaking with The PUNCH on Sunday, Sessi criticised oil marketers for manipulating petroleum pricing to exploit Nigerians, alleging that they were undermining the government’s efforts to stabilise the downstream oil sector.

She asserted that the recent reduction in the pump price of petrol did not sit well with marketers because it disrupted their exploitative practices.

“How can marketers be telling us that an increase in crude oil prices automatically translates to higher prices for the finished product? Are they buying crude oil? No! They buy the finished product,” Sessi said.

She applauded Tinubu’s administration for reviving two of Nigeria’s refineries in Port Harcourt and Warri, emphasising that these developments should lead to a further reduction in PMS prices.

She argued that oil marketers are attempting to frustrate these efforts to maintain their monopolistic control.

“The Tinubu administration has done what successive governments failed to do by putting our refineries to work. Marketers should stop frustrating these efforts.

“The government must deal directly with suppliers and eliminate middlemen who corruptly enrich themselves,” Sessi added.

She urged the government to emulate Dangote refinery’s direct supply model and establish agreements with oil companies and petrol stations to ensure fair pricing.

“Marketers are the problem. They’ve been receiving subsidies without supplying products and now want to determine prices when they don’t even own refineries.

‘We reject this. Nigerians cannot continue to suffer due to their greed,” Sessi concluded.

The NLC chair called for transparency and accountability in the petroleum sector, warning that Nigerians will no longer tolerate exploitative practices.

Dangote refutes blame

The Dangote refinery said it has agreed with its partners – MRS, Ardova and Heyden – to sell its PMS at the rate of N970 per litre across the country.

The company said it absorbed the increased logistics costs to guarantee uniform pricing across the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory.

In a statement by the Dangote Group spokesman, Anthony Chiejina, the company clarified that the recent adjustment in its ex-depot price of petrol was directly related to the significant increase in global crude oil prices.

“At Dangote Petroleum Refinery, we recognise the critical importance of affordable fuel for all Nigerians, and we remain committed to offering the best value with guaranteed quality to our customers. While we have made a five per cent adjustment to our ex-depot price from N899.50 to N950 per litre, it is important to note that this increase is considerably lower than the 15 per cent rise in global crude oil prices. Furthermore, Dangote refinery has maintained the Single-Point Mooring ex-vessel price at N895 per litre.

“All our partners, including Ardova, Heyden, and MRS Holdings, will offer petrol to Nigerians at a retail price of N970 per litre nationwide. We have absorbed the increased logistics costs to guarantee uniform pricing across the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory,” Chiejina said.

Speaking further, he said the Dangote refinery absorbed approximately 50 per cent of the cost increases in the international oil market due to its unwavering commitment to quality and affordability, as well as the ownership of the refinery by Nigerians.

“If Dangote refinery were to pass on the entire increase in the price of crude oil to the market, the retail price of PMS would be approximately N1,150 to N1,200 per litre in some locations, compared to the current price of N970 per litre.

“We are committed to providing reliable, top-quality petrol to the Nigerian people at competitive prices. In these challenging times, we continue to prioritise the best interests of Nigerians, striving to shield consumers from the full impact of global price volatility while adapting to evolving market conditions.

“We sincerely appreciate the continued trust and support of Nigerians as we strive to deliver the best value for their money and contribute to the development of a self-sufficient economy that is resilient to international price fluctuations,” he stated.

In the interest of transparency and good governance, Chiejina said the Dangote refinery will now commence publishing its ex-depot price, ex-vessel price, and pump price every week so that consumers are not exploited.

He concluded, “We would like to express our gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for the introduction of the visionary Naira-for-Crude Initiative. This groundbreaking initiative has enabled consistent access to high-quality PMS for all Nigerians, while also insulating the Nigerian consumers from the volatility of the global oil market.”

Marketers speak

Meanwhile, marketers of petroleum products said they should not be blamed for the instability in the prices of petrol in recent times.

This is as stakeholders warned that the price of petrol will no longer be stable following the full deregulation of the market.

According to them, the major factors determining the price are the international crude oil price and the exchange rate. It was argued that the instability of the two factors means that the price of PMS will continue to rise and fall at intervals.

As of Sunday, the Benchmark Brent crude price was $80.78; the WTI was $77.88 while the Morban crude was $83.65, according to oilprice.com. Nigeria’s Brass River crude was $83.69 and the Qua Iboe was $83.59.

Speaking with The PUNCH, retailers under the aegis of the Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria urged Nigerians, especially the labour unions, not to believe that filling stations are to blame for the changes in the prices of PMS.

PETROAN affirmed that the increase in PMS prices was a result of the rise in the cost of crude oil in the international market.

Prices were said to have risen to a four-month high following the introduction of new United States sanctions against Russian oil.

The sanctions imposed on January 10 caused a spike in the price of oil and a surge in the cost of tanker shipping, as the outgoing President Joe Biden’s administration took steps to damage Russia’s oil exports and hinder attempts by Moscow to build its fleet.

The Biden administration had issued sweeping sanctions targeting the Russian energy sector, aiming for Moscow’s oil revenues just days before Donald Trump would assume office.

The measures include sanctions on Russian oil producers, Gazprom Neft and Surgutneftegas, and the blacklisting of 183 vessels involved in Russian energy exports. Dozens of traders, Russia-based oilfield service providers, and energy officials were also targeted.

The National President of PETROAN, Dr Billy Gillis-Harry, quoting Section 205 of the Petroleum Industry Act, stated that petrol prices are determined by market forces, indicating that the government and the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited no longer set petrol prices nor do marketers arbitrarily inflate prices.

As a result, he noted that refinery operators in Nigeria will respond accordingly to changes in crude oil prices while the effect would be felt by dealers, retailers, and end consumers.

Gillis-Harry noted that increasing crude oil prices would inevitably affect domestic costs.

“Retailers should not be blamed for the price increase. It’s no longer funny; even we, retail outlet owners, are affected by this up-and-down movement of prices. It affects our business,” he noted.

Gillis-Harry emphasised that PETROAN members cannot buy petrol at a higher price and sell it at a lower rate.

“Our selling rate always reflects our buying rate. Our members shouldn’t be blamed for the current increase; it’s an external factor. We cannot buy petrol at a higher price and sell below that cost. We cannot buy at N955 and sell at N1,000 per litre. We need to look at logistics and add a humane margin,” he added.

The National Vice Chairman of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria, Hammed Fashola, said marketers are aware of the competition in the market and no one wants to be left behind by selling at higher rates.

“You cannot deceive yourself. There is competition out there. So, if you like, put your fuel at N1,500 per litre, nobody will buy it. So, the price change is not deliberately done by marketers,” Fashola said.

He noted that marketers are now wary of the volatility of the downstream sector, saying they have to go with information before making purchases or before making imports as many of them made losses in December when the price was suddenly reduced by the Dangote refinery and the NNPC.

“And there are some factors you have to consider. That is the exchange rate and the crude oil price. Those are the major factors that determine the price of petroleum products,” he added.

To avoid running into financial losses, he advised that owners of filling stations must be futuristic and do their projections well.

TikTok has restored its services in the United States (US) following a brief nationwide shutdown caused by a federal ban over national security concerns tied to its Chinese ownership.

The ban, which took effect on Sunday, temporarily forced TikTok offline, leaving over 170 million US users without access to the platform.

It also led to the app being removed from Apple and Google’s digital stores in compliance with federal regulations.

However, Donald Trump, the U.S. president-elect, pledged to delay the enforcement of the ban through an executive order on his first day in office.

 

In a statement on X, TikTok appreciated Trump for providing “the necessary clarity and assurance” for service providers to support the app without fear of penalties.

“In agreement with our service providers, TikTok is in the process of restoring service. We thank President Trump for providing the necessary clarity and assurance to our service providers that they will face no penalties providing TikTok to over 170 million Americans and allowing over 7 million small businesses to thrive,” the company said.

“It’s a strong stand for the First Amendment and against arbitrary censorship. We will work with President Trump on a long-term solution that keeps TikTok in the United States.”

According to reports, some users gained partial access to TikTok shortly after the announcement, although the app remains unavailable for download on Apple and Google’s stores.

 More citizens seek greener pastures due to hardship, institutions battle with brain drain

As more Nigerians are eager and willing to leave the country in search of greener pastures abroad for various reasons, there are concerns that the Japa syndrome, if not quickly addressed, may further deplete the country’s workforce, findings by the LEADERSHIP Data Mining Department have shown.

Japa is Nigerian informal term that roughly translates to citizens leaving the country without intending to return. Japa combines the Yoruba expression já pa, meaning “to run” or “flee,” as per migration.

There are growing concerns that the export of human capital has created significant workforce gaps across various sectors of the Nigerian economy. Analysts highlight the health sector as the most severely affected, with an alarming exodus of doctors and nurses in recent years. Similarly, the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and engineering sectors have also felt the impact of the “Japa” syndrome.

Experts warn that the ongoing brain drain from this trend could lead to a loss of potential entrepreneurs and a critical shortage of skilled professionals. Moreover, according to the experts, employees are increasingly losing faith in the country’s economic prospects, with many determined to migrate despite incentives offered by employers to encourage them to stay.

Of late, the economic policies of the recent administrations have led to hyper inflation and wiped out most paid workers’ purchasing power, making more people willing to look for better opportunities abroad.

Recently, the Oyo State Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) Chairman, Dr Happy Adedapo, appealed to the governments to incentivise health workers and doctors to reduce ‘japa’ syndrome in Nigeria.

In an interview with the newsmen in Ibadan, he remarked that the ‘Japa’ syndrome, one of the significant challenges faced by health workers in 2024, would be reduced to the barest minimum if doctors were made comfortable.

He said, “It’s not too much for the government to give car loans to doctors to encourage them and keep them in the system. The Japa syndrome should be reduced to the barest minimum.”

Also, many Information and Communications Technology (ICT) experts have raised concerns that Nigeria’s economic progress could be significantly hindered by the ongoing exodus of tech talents seeking better opportunities abroad.

One of these experts, the chief executive officer of Agotech Solutions, Mr Wale Adedeji, called on the government to implement measures to curb this brain drain. He highlighted that one of the persistent challenges in the IT sector is the high cost of retaining talent. According to him, international companies increasingly recruit skilled professionals from Nigeria, drawn by the country’s reputation for producing exceptional tech talent.

To address this issue, Mr. Adedeji suggested a multi-faceted approach.

He emphasised the need for the government to establish and fund learning hubs where individuals can acquire in-demand skills.

He also proposed significant infrastructure investment to facilitate business ease.

According to him, creating a local version of Silicon Valley in Nigeria—with tech parks, free hotspot zones, and widespread internet access—would empower youths and tech enthusiasts, fostering innovation and reducing the allure of relocating abroad.

Data gathered showed that 56 percent of Nigerians have considered migrating from the country, marking a significant 20-percentage-point increase from the 2017 figure of 36 percent, according to a report by Afrobarometer, a pan-African research network.

“The share that says they have given ‘a lot’ of thought to the idea has tripled, from 11 percent to 33 percent,” the report stated.

The data shows this trend is particularly pronounced among the most educated citizens. Nigerians with post-secondary qualifications comprise 71 percent of those considering migration, while urban residents and youth represent 63 percent and 60 percent, respectively.

Afrobarometer attributes the desire for migration to seeking better opportunities, employment prospects, and relief from economic hardship.

“The most common reasons cited for potential emigration are finding work opportunities (42%) and escaping economic hardship or poverty (39%),” the report noted.

Preferred destinations for aspiring migrants include North America, Europe, and the Middle East. The report also highlights that two-thirds (66%) of unemployed Nigerians actively seeking work have considered leaving the country. Among those employed, 58% of full-time and 56 percent of part-time workers have expressed similar intentions.

Migration from Nigeria has surged in recent years. Between January and September 2023, 1,574,357 people left the country, bringing the total number of emigrants in the past two years to 3,679,496.

A separate survey by the African Polling Institute in 2022 found that 69 percent of Nigerians aged 18–35 would relocate if given the opportunity. This exodus has contributed to a significant brain drain, particularly in the health sector, as professionals leave for better working conditions abroad.

Experts said the government has failed to address underlying issues and implement effective measures to curb the ongoing emigration crisis. Beyond the brain drain, the migration wave has strained family ties and disrupted communities, according to the experts. Despite these challenges, the economic hardships, systemic failures, and other factors driving migration remain unresolved.

According to Banji Alimi, an HR expert, many of these migrants graduated from Nigerian universities, which are highly subsidised by the government. Those seeking greener abroad take years of training and skills acquired locally.

Chief executive officer of OLM Consulting, Joshua Coker, said the “japa syndrome” had triggered a significant shift in the labour market, transitioning it from employer-centric to employee-focused.

He attributed this wave of migration to poor working conditions, inadequate remuneration, insecurity, and challenging economic realities.

Coker further noted that additional factors, such as the deteriorating state of the economy, the high cost of living, and human rights violations had also driven young Nigerians to seek better opportunities in developed countries.

He mentioned that he once read an article about a significant wave of Indian migration to countries like the United Kingdom and the United States during the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s. However, many of these individuals eventually returned to India, where they played a pivotal role in advancing the nation’s achievements in technology, medical sciences, and other fields.

Coker said that regarding relocation, India comes first, followed by Palestine and then Nigeria in the context of migration to the United Kingdom.

According to recent data, approximately 3,679,496 Nigerians have left the country in the past two years. The International Organisation for Migration estimates the Nigerian diaspora population to be around 17 million as of 2024.

Migration expert Charles Dickson observed that despite the arduous visa application processes, the dangers associated with some migration routes, and the often inhumane treatment Nigerians face abroad, the exodus continues unabated. He attributed this persistence to the resilience and tenacity of Nigerians, who endure significant hardships while holding onto the hope of a better future—something many feel is unattainable at home.

Seyi Makinde, Governor of Oyo State, participated in the 2025 edition of the Houston half-marathon in the US. 

In a post on X account on Sunday, the governor announced that he completed the 21-kilometre race “in 2 hours 53 minutes”.

Makinde added that the finish was faster than his achievement at the 2022 Berkeley half-marathon in San Francisco, California.

He said he achieved the time despite the “freezing temperatures at 1 degree Celsius” throughout the Houston half-marathon race.

“I also took part in a 5k fun run yesterday, which I completed in 38 minutes,” the post reads.

The Houston half-marathon has gained popularity since its debut in 2002. It is part of the three-race annual sporting event in Houston, alongside the marathon and 5km race.

Addisu Gobena of Ethiopia won this year’s men’s half marathon, clocking 59 minutes and 17 seconds.

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Makinde is, however, not the first Nigerian governor to participate in a marathon event. Peter Mbah, governor of Enugu, participated in the 21.79km Coal City half marathon in 2024. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Governor of Lagos, finished the 10km Access Bank Lagos City marathon in 2022.

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The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has decried the surge in the rate of vandalism of transmission towers in the country.

The national transmission company said that over 18 transmission towers were vandalised between January 9 and 14, 2025, across Rivers, Abia, and Kano States.

General Manager of Transmission for the Port Harcourt Region, Emmanuel Okpa, reported that routine patrols by linesmen on January 10, 2025, uncovered damage to towers 171 through 181 and tower 184.

“On January 14, vandals targeted towers 146, 147, and 149 along the Owerri/Ahoada 132kV line in Rivers State, removing base brackets and compromising the stability of the towers.

“In Abia State, Engr. Azuh Lucky, Head of the Lines Department for the Region, reported the theft of bolts, nuts, and structural members from towers 160 to 162 on the Alaoji/Umuahia 132kV line, which was under repair on January 13, 2025,” TCN general manager, Public Affairs, Ndidi Mbah, stated in a statement on Sunday.

According to her, towers 105, 106, and 107 along the Katsina-Gazoua 132/33kV transmission line in Kano State, were critically damaged by vandals on January 9, 2025, compromising their structural integrity and risking collapse.

“In the early hours of January 17, 2025, vandalised 132kV underground transmission cables were discovered by TCN engineers near Millennium Park in Abuja. This affected power supply to the central area and its environs.

“These incidents pose a significant challenge to our operations as a company. We have bolstered security measures, increased line patrol, and the number of vigilante groups, and we are also collaborating with security operatives. However, we need and are appealing for the full support of every Nigerian, particularly those in communities hosting our installations. We must collectively recognize that the transmission network is our collective asset and essential for our socioeconomic development.

“The vandals and those who buy stolen materials are sabotaging the nation. All hands must be on deck to ensure the growth of the nation’s power sector, which is critical to the development of our country

“TCN’s grid expansion plans are under tremendous strain due to the persistent vandalism of its installations. The financial implications of constant repairs to vandalised transmission installations, along with the stress on the grid, are having adverse effects on TCNs grid expansion drive,” Mbah said.

The company made a “clarion call” for everyone to join forces with TCN to put an end to the menace and safeguard our electricity network.

Dangote Refinery has announced a five per cent increase in the ex-depot price of petrol from N899.50 to N950 per litre due to a significant rise in global crude oil prices, which surged from $70 to $82 per barrel. This adjustment is lower than the 15 per cent increase in crude prices, and the refinery has absorbed about 50 per cent of the cost increases to maintain retail prices at N970 per litre across Nigeria.

Dangote Petroleum Refinery has clarified that the recent adjustment in its ex-depot price of Premium Motor Spirit (Petrol) is directly related to the significant increase in global crude oil prices.

This is as key distribution partners MRS Oil, Heyden, and Ardova have agreed to sell petrol at N970 per litre nationwide.

Group branding and communications officer for the group Anthony Chiejina, who made this known said as crude remains the primary input in the production of PMS, any fluctuation in its international price inevitably impacts the cost of the finished product.

The company said as crude remains the primary input in the production of PMS, any fluctuation in its international price inevitably impacts the cost of the finished product.

According to Dangote Petroleum Refinery, we recognise the critical importance of affordable fuel for all Nigerians, and we remain committed to offering the best value with guaranteed quality to our customers.

“While we have made a five per cent adjustment to our ex-depot price from N899.50 to N950 per litre, it is important to note that this increase is considerably lower than the 15 per cent rise in global crude oil prices, which has seen Brent Crude rise from $70 to $82 in a matter of days, in addition to the premium for Nigerian crude (approximately $3 per barrel) in international markets. Furthermore, Dangote Refinery has maintained the Single-Point Mooring (SPM) ex-vessel price at N895 per litre.”

It added that “all our partners, including Ardova, Heyden, and MRS Holdings, will offer petrol to Nigerians at a retail price of N970 per litre nationwide. We have absorbed the increased logistics costs to guarantee uniform pricing across the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

“Dangote Refinery has absorbed approximately 50 per cent of the cost increases in the international oil market.”

Dangote Refinery stated that “this is due to our unwavering commitment to quality and affordability, as well as the ownership of the refinery by Nigerians, which remain central to our mission.

“If Dangote Refinery were to pass on the entire increase in the price of crude oil to the market, the retail price of PMS would be approximately N1,150 to N1,200 per litre in some locations, compared to the current price of N970 per litre.

“We are committed to providing reliable, top-quality petrol to the Nigerian people at competitive prices. In these challenging times, we continue to prioritise the best interests of Nigerians, striving to shield consumers from the full impact of global price volatility while adapting to evolving market conditions.”

The Company appreciated the continued trust and support of Nigerians as we strive to deliver the best value for their money and contribute to the development of a self-sufficient economy that is resilient to international price fluctuations.

“In the interest of transparency and good governance, Dangote Refinery will commence publishing its ex-depot price, ex-vessel price as well as pump price on a weekly basis so that consumers are not exploited.

“We would like to express our gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for the introduction of the visionary naira for the Crude Initiative. This groundbreaking initiative has enabled consistent access to high-quality PMS for all Nigerians, while also insulating the Nigerian consumers from the volatility of the global oil market,” Dangote Refinery added.

Members of a child trafficking syndicate arrested by the operatives of Ondo State Police Command have confessed that they usually sell each stolen child at the rate of N500,000 to their receivers.

The suspects, 43-year-old as Lukman Isiaka, Abosede Olanipekun, 23; and Mrs Sabira Izuorah, 68, were arrested by the police while in possession of 14 babies and toddlers stolen from Akure, Ondo State and Ilesa in Osun State.

The children were recovered from Izuorah who claimed to operate an orphanage in Ihiala in Anambra State.

Among the children recovered from the suspects are four three-week old babies, two weeks old, two months old, and ten other children.

Izuorah who was a former Director from the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs in Anambra State, admitted to having received the children from the other suspects.

Speaking with journalists at the Ondo State Police headquarters in Akure, Izuorah said, “I have a registered orphanage. I took care of the children. The name of my orphanage is Clarion Children’s Care and Reforms Initiatives, and it started full operation in 2020.

“Lukman and his wife brought a total of 11 children to me. I don’t pay them; it is the adoptive parents who pay them. The adoptive parents don’t pay me; they give us food items and supplies.

“I stopped Lukman and his wife from bringing children for me in November 2024. All the children were no longer with me, but I went to recover them from their adoptive parents. It didn’t start with me, and it will not end with me.”

However, Lukman who claimed to be a bricklayer said he had been involved in the business since 2023.

He said Izuorah introduced him and his wife to the illicit trade when he left Ondo State to work in Anambra.

While saying Izuorah always paid him N500,000 per child, which she in turn sold to her prospective buyers for N1 million and above, Lukman said, “I have been stealing children since 2023.

“I have given a total of 11 children to Izuorah. The method my wife and I use to steal the children is when we are going, and we see any child roaming about, we call them and say we will buy soft drinks and biscuits for them.

“After telling them that, they will follow us. After walking for about 10 minutes, we will board a bike to the park, where we will board a vehicle to Anambra State to give Izuorah the children.

“She normally gives us N500,000 for each child that we bring to her. I met Izuorah when we went to Anambra to work. I’m a bricklayer. She was the one who introduced me to the business after training me, and since then, I have been giving her children.

“I don’t know anything about the two-month-old and four-month-old babies. She is the one who can say where she got them from. I only operate in Akure, Ondo State, and Ilesa, Osun State.”

Parading the suspects, the state Commissioner of Police, Wilfred Afolabi, stated that intelligence-led policing made the operation a success when Lukman and Abosede were traced to Ottah village in Edo State, where they were arrested.

Afolabi said the arrested couple led the police operatives to Anambra State, where Izuorah was arrested and moved to Akure.

“A case of a missing child was reported at Okuta Elerin-Nla Division in Akure. A complainant reported that Abosede deceived her by claiming she wanted to buy biscuits for the baby.

“Meanwhile, Lukman distracted the complainant by engaging her in a personal conversation and requested that she follow him to Olukayode Plaza in the market to get a mobile phone. On getting to the market area, he abandoned her and left.

“When the complainant returned to the shop, she discovered that her child was missing, with no trace of Abosede, the supposed sister of the man she followed to the market; thus, a report was made at the Division.

“During interrogation, the suspects admitted to abducting the child and other children from Ondo and Osun States and selling them to Sabira Izuorah, aged 62 years, in Ihiala, Anambra State, at the rate of One Million Naira (₦1,000,000) per child,” the CP narrated.

The police boss added, “The following babies were found in her custody: Baby Favour (female, 3 weeks old), Baby Chidera (female, 2 weeks old), Baby Chinyere (female, 2 months and 5 days old), and Baby Uzoma (male, 1 week old).”

The CP added that on January 14, 2025, 10 children sold by Mrs Izuorah were rescued from various locations.

He stressed that their parents identified their children which include Dauda Alarape, male, 3½ years; Babalola David, male, 4 years; Asaolu Pamilerin, 7 years; Ayomide Abass, male, 2 years who was stolen from Orita-Obele in Akure; Komolafe Oluwasekemi, female, 4 years who was stolen from Igado in Ilesha and Adedeji Olalekan, male, 6½ years.

Others are Ahmed Abdulrasaq, male, 5½ years, stolen from Ibodi Town, Osun State; Mary Wuraola, female, 2 years, stolen from Ilesha, Osun State; Mubarak Akinwunmi, male, 6 years, stolen from Osogbo, Osun State; and an unknown child whose name and parents have not been identified but stolen from Osun State.

He added that some children are currently on the missing list while efforts are ongoing to locate and rescue them.