FEATURES
Former Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon (rtd), said he pleaded with late Gen. Sani Abacha not to execute former President Olusegun Obasanjo for an alleged coup plot in 1995.
Gowon said this at the maiden edition of the Interdenominational Unity Christmas Carol and Praise Festival organised by the Plateau Government.
Recall that Obasanjo was arrested in 1995 by Abacha and convicted of being part of a planned coup to overthrow his government.
Obasanjo, in spite of pleading innocent to the coup, was sentenced to death.
He spent three years in prison before he was released in 1998 following the death of Gen. Abacha on June 8 of that year.
‘I sent my wife to Abacha’
While Gowon was the Special Guest of Honour at the event, Obasanjo was the Guest of Honour.
“I wrote a letter to Abacha; I pleaded with him that God made him a leader to do good and not evil.
“I sent my wife with the letter in the middle of the night to Abacha in Abuja; I pleaded with him that such a thing should not happen.
“I’m glad that soon after that, things changed. And not only that Obasanjo left prison, he became our president in 1999.
“This is something that only prayers and sincerity can do. I’m happy that today myself and Obasanjo are here to celebrate the unity of Plateau,” he said.
Gowon also thanked the state government for organising the carol, adding that it would further unite the citizens of the state.
The former head of state said that the state had gone through a myriad of security challenges; hence, the carol provided a suitable avenue for the people to commune.
He commended Governor Caleb Mutfwang for the various initiatives aimed at promoting peaceful coexistence among the people.
[Vanguard]
A federal high court in Lagos has dismissed a fundamental rights suit filed by crossdresser Bobrisky against the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the national assembly.
Bobrisky had filed the lawsuit seeking N200 million in damages from the EFCC for alleged “psychotic trauma” and N1 billion from the national assembly for purportedly violating his right to a fair hearing.
She also requested a court order to prevent the EFCC and the national assembly from “harassing, detaining, or declaring me wanted”.
However, on November 28, Alexander Owoeye, the judge who presided over the case, held that Bobrisky’s claims were unsubstantiated and lacked credible evidence.
Owoeye said the applicant failed to provide sufficient proof to support his allegations of rights violations.
Dele Oyewale, the EFCC spokesman, released a statement on Friday wherein he quoted the judge.
“Having evaluated the evidence placed before this Court by the Applicant, it is evident that the Applicant has failed to provide credible evidence to justify the award of the declaratory and injunctive reliefs sought by him,” Owoeye was quoted to have said.
“I hold that the claims of violation of fundamental rights against the 1st and 2nd Respondents were not made out of the affidavit evidence placed before this Court.
“The Applicant’s claims against the EFCC and National Assembly were found to lack merit, and are hereby dismissed. No damages were awarded.”
BACKGROUND
The crossdresser has been in the eye of the storm since activist VeryDarkMan shared a purported audio conversation wherein she claimed that she paid some EFCC officials N15 million to drop money laundering charges against her.
Bobrisky was released on August 5, after she was sentenced to six months in prison on April 12 for abusing the naira.
In the purported recording, the crossdresser also claimed that her “godfather”, alongside Haliru Nababa, controller-general of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), ensured she served the six-month sentence in a private apartment and not in prison.
Bobrisky denied the recording’s authenticity and threatened legal action against VeryDarkMan.
The house of representatives joint committee on financial crimes and reformatory institutions resolved to probe the bribery allegation. It also invited VeryDarkMan, Bobrisky, Ola Olukoyode, EFCC chairman; and Nababa to appear before the committee.
The social media celebrity, who failed to appear before the committee, was arrested on October 21 at the Seme border for allegedly attempting to flee the country.
On November 1, the crossdresser was re-arrested by EFCC officials while attempting to leave Nigeria. A video shared on Instagram showed airport officials dragging her off the plane.
The commission also confirmed that she was rearrested to assist in investigating bribery allegations against the agency after which she finally travelled out of Nigeria on November 4.
[TheCable]
The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) at Sa’adu Zungur University (SAZU) in Bauchi has announced an indefinite strike to emphasize its call for improved working conditions from the university administration.
In a statement to the press following an emergency congress convened at the Yuli Campus in Bauchi, the ASUU Chairperson for the SAZU branch, Comrade Awwal Hussain Nuhu, indicated that the congress had determined it had exhausted all available avenues, with previous efforts to engage the authorities proving unsuccessful.
The chairperson highlighted that the congress recognized a lack of willingness and commitment from both the university administration and the government to address its concerns, despite numerous attempts made to facilitate dialogue.
“Therefore, a member of the union moved for a motion for the branch to embark on a total, comprehensive and indefinite strike action which was seconded by another member.
“Consequently, the congress passed a resolution for the branch to embark on comprehensive and indefinite strike action until further notice.
“The strike action has to commence immediately at 12:00pm on Friday the 29th of November 2024. With this, all members of ASUU in SAZU are directed to comply as no academic activity of whatever form or meetings will take place while it lasted.
“Members are directed to embark on a total, comprehensive and indefinite strike action until further notice. This implies that activities such as teaching, marking, meetings, accreditation and any other activities related to academic staff are suspended indefinitely,” the statement reads.
‘The Calibre Of People Who Escort Illegal Oil Bunkers Would Shock Nigerians’ – Fisayo Soyombo
AFOLABI
Nigerian investigative journalist, Fisayo Soyombo, has expressed concern over the kind of security cover available for oil bunkers in the country.
Naija News reports that the founder of the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ), in an interview with Arise TV morning show, said he was conducting an undercover investigation when the Nigerian Army arrested him.
Soyombo stated that there are innocent military men, but there is a need to sanitise the saboteurs who enable oil bunkers to thrive.
According to the journalist, it is not only oil bunkers that are thieves but also those who are meant to supervise the sector, adding that “What we would need is an overhaul of the system.”
He said, “It would shock you the kind of people who escort illegal oil bunkers out of Port-Harcourt.
“The army spokesman already compromised my security by going online to say that they found illegal bunkers.
“There are clean men in the military but we need to clean up the saboteurs who enable oil bunkerers to thrive.
“This is a new level for me that I need to do it. Rather than change approach, I will rather stop, maybe I have one, two, three under-cover investigations and I will stop.
“It is not the fun of it but the situations we found ourselves. Imagine the story I did on smugglers. People have to know that in their country they can be safe, and we need to expose these wrongdoings.
“The figure being put out in terms of Crude oil theft are an underestimation of what’s happening. The Crude we were to move was for 50,000 barrel, if the man who got annoyed that he wasn’t bribed didn’t talk, we would have had two trucks move out. There is no institution that can say for a fact the barrels are being lifted daily.”
Abuja-based herbalist identified as Ismail Usman has sustained a severe injury while testing a self-made bulletproof charm.
Naija News learnt that the incident occurred on November 23 at the Kuchibuyi village in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.
In a statement on Saturday, the FCT police command spokesperson, Josephine Adeh, said Usman picked a locally fabricated gun after fortifying himself with the charm he had prepared.
Usman reportedly shot himself in the stomach, and the charm failed to protect him, leaving him severely injured.
Adeh said the police received a distress call from a resident at the incident, stressing that officers from the Byazhin Division arrived at the scene and rushed Usman to Kubwa General Hospital.
The police spokesperson further stated that due to the severity of his injuries, the herbalist was later transferred to Gwagwalada Specialist Hospital, where doctors are working tirelessly to save his life.
She said Usman would face charges for unlawful possession of firearms and attempted suicide, which violates Section 231 of the Penal Code Law of Northern Nigeria.
The statement read, “A distress call from Shandam Michael reported a shocking event involving Ismail Usman, a local herbalist known for his unconventional methods. In a misguided attempt to test the effectiveness of a self-made ‘bulletproof’ charm, Usman shot himself in the stomach with a shotgun.
“Unfortunately, the charm failed to protect him, resulting in life-threatening injuries. Officers from the Byazhin Division responded swiftly, arriving at the scene to find Usman in critical condition. He was quickly transported to Kubwa General Hospital for emergency treatment and later transferred to Gwagwalada Specialist Hospital for further care.
“In the aftermath, police conducted a thorough search of Usman’s home, recovering the homemade gun and an array of charms used in his reckless experiment.
“Investigations are ongoing, and Usman is expected to face charges for unlawful possession of firearms and attempted suicide under Section 231 of the Penal Code Law of Northern Nigeria.
“Commissioner of Police FCT, CP Olatunji Disu, condemned the incident, highlighting the dangers associated with illegal firearms.”
Okpebholo Approves 13 Month Salary For Edo Workers, Automatic Employment For First Class Graduates
AFOLABI
Governor Monday Okpebholo has approved the disbursement of a 13-month salary to Edo State employees.
Additionally, the Governor has instituted a policy that guarantees automatic employment for first-class graduates of Edo origin from any university, whether within Nigeria or abroad, in the state civil service.
This initiative aims to enhance the quality of human resources within the system and to motivate workers, encouraging them to give their utmost effort, says Dr Anthony Okungbowa, the Head of Service.
He further stated that the Graduate Development Programme (GDP) is designed to attract high-quality personnel into the system, ensuring effective and efficient service delivery to foster growth and development.
“Mr Governor has approved the Graduate Development Programme (GDP) that brings together First Class graduates and high-grade degrees into the service with a view to developing and ensuring quality manpower in the system.
“Mr Governor has approved it. He approved the policy of bringing in First Class graduates into the Edo State Civil and Public Service be approved. He believes that the policy will help the state bring top-quality talents into the system.
“It is not just bringing them in but also retaining them because retaining them is one of the major challenges facing the programme.
“Mr. Governor is intentional about bringing them in and retaining these top-level talents in the service. The Governor is using this medium to urge all first-class graduates from Edo extraction across all universities in Nigeria and abroad to come over as they will have automatic employment. We are looking at the younger graduates from 2020, but Mr. Governor may extend that.
“We are happy about this and appreciate the Governor because through this, the service will have quality talents in the system.
“For everyone in that programme, they are moved round various Ministries, Departments and Agencies and plans are also on to move them to the private sector to gather more experiences after which they bring will such experiences to bear, to improve the system, to contribute to the development of the State.
“Sustainability depends on you and me since the political will is there and I am happy because it is the direction of government. We are partnering with Edo Innovate to ensure improvement in the programme,” a press release Date November 28, signed and made available to Naija News from the office of Fred Itua, Chief Press Secretary to Edo State Governor, reads.
With 30 months left in his tenure, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State remains firmly in office.
However, the political stage is already brimming with activity as ambitious contenders begin their campaigns for the 2027 gubernatorial race.
Both ruling and opposition parties are setting the groundwork, and key players are positioning themselves for the Alausa Round House.
APC’s Frontline Aspirants
In the All Progressives Congress (APC), heavyweights are lining up for a chance to lead Lagos. The list of rumored aspirants includes Seyi Tinubu, the son of President Bola Tinubu; Lagos State House of Assembly Speaker, Hon. Mudashiru Obasa; former Governor Akinwunmi Ambode; and Senator Tokunbo Abiru.
The decision on the APC candidate is expected to be influenced by factors such as religion, zoning, indigeneship, and endorsements from influential stakeholders like the Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC) and President Tinubu himself.
Seyi Tinubu, a rising political figure, has received endorsements from various groups, while Speaker Obasa has declared his capability to govern the state, citing his extensive legislative experience. Former Governor Ambode is also in the spotlight, with some party members advocating for his return to balance the 16-year religious leadership cycle between Christians and Muslims.
Opposition Gearing Up
On the other side, opposition parties are not left behind. Abdulaziz Olajide Adediran (Jandor) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour of the Labour Party (LP) are reportedly preparing to renew their ambitions.
Both figures made notable impacts during the 2023 elections and are now working to realign with their party structures to increase their chances in 2027.
Jandor, who spearheads the Lagos4Lagos movement, continues to rally support among PDP founding members, while Rhodes-Vivour remains a popular figure among Lagos’ younger electorate, particularly in urban centers.
Religious Dynamics in Focus
Religion is poised to play a significant role in determining the next Lagos governor. Sanwo-Olu, a Christian, succeeded Akinwunmi Ambode, also a Christian, bringing the total duration of Christian leadership to 12 years by 2027. Some stakeholders argue that this is a time to maintain the balance by returning power to a Muslim candidate, while others insist on completing a 16-year Christian leadership cycle to match the tenure of Bola Tinubu and Babatunde Fashola, both Muslims.
Sanwo-Olu’s Journey and Power Dynamics
Governor Sanwo-Olu’s emergence in 2019 marked a turning point in Lagos politics. The incumbent, Akinwunmi Ambode, was ousted by the APC power bloc led by Bola Tinubu, paving the way for Sanwo-Olu’s candidacy as a consensus choice.
His second-term ambition faced initial challenges, with rumors suggesting other candidates such as Femi Gbajabiamila, now Chief of Staff to the President, and Hakeem Muri-Okunola, the Lagos Head of Service, were being considered.
However, public endorsements by Gbajabiamila and Muri-Okunola, coupled with widespread support from party members, solidified Sanwo-Olu’s position, enabling him to secure re-election.
Some APC chieftains were of the opinion that Tinubu is a master planner and can spring surprises at any given time.
Lagos Deputy Governor, Babafemi Hamzat also came into the picture as having plans to succeed Sanwo-Olu but a source told Vanguard that the inner caucus has plans for him to relocate to Epe in order to make a case for the Lagos East Senatorial slot and complete what ought to be Akinwumi Ambode’s card.
Obasa’s Resilience and Ambition
Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, the longest-serving Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, is another key figure to watch. During the 2025 budget presentation, Obasa addressed speculation about his governorship ambitions. While emphasizing his commitment to strengthening the APC, he did not rule out the possibility of running.
“Becoming governor is secondary,” Obasa said. “However, I am not too young or inexperienced to lead. My focus remains on building our party and ensuring that our state’s governance continues to thrive.”
Obasa’s grassroots connections and influence within the Mandate Group, an influential faction in Lagos APC politics, make him a formidable contender.
Opposition Realignment
In the PDP, Jandor is strengthening his ties with party stalwarts and aligning his Lagos4Lagos movement with broader PDP interests. Similarly, Rhodes-Vivour, who gained significant traction in the 2023 elections, is leveraging his popularity to position himself as a strong contender.
The Road Ahead
As the race for the 2027 Lagos gubernatorial election heats up, all eyes are on the APC’s eventual candidate. The decision will likely come down to internal party dynamics, religious considerations, and endorsements from key figures, including President Tinubu. For the opposition, unity and strategic alliances will be crucial in challenging the APC’s dominance.
Stakeholders in Nigeria’s university community have expressed divergent views on the federal government’s cancellation of foreign training for the country’s scholars.
While some applauded the measure, others described it as retrogressive and parochial.
At the opening of a three-day conference organised by the British Council in Abuja on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, the minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, said university lecturers would henceforth be trained in Nigeria.
He said the federal government would be spending substantial money on building a simulation lab, as well as developing the universities to save costs.
Alausa said, “We have just decided to cancel foreign training for scholars. The amount of money we are spending to train one scholar abroad could use it to train 20 people here. We will be training everybody here.
“We will unleash capacity in our universities. We are going to be spending more money now on research, innovation, and also on welfare, both on our academics and non-academics.”
Two days later, the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) also announced the suspension of the foreign component of the TETFund Scholarship for Academic Staff (TSAS) Intervention, effective January 1, 2025.
It said suspension was in response to the excessive cost of training in foreign institutions, as well as the high rate of abscondment among foreign scholars.
In separate reactions to the decision, the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), students, and other stakeholders urged the government to redirect the savings from the ban into upgrading local universities.
They also called for increased investment in the domestic higher education sector to enhance the quality of education and reduce reliance on studying abroad.
The coordinator of ASUU, Abuja Zone, Dr Salahu Mohammed Lawal, advocated for the reinvestment of saved funds into Nigerian education to improve infrastructure and access.
He said foreign training cuts could benefit local education if the funds are properly directed.
Lawal charged the government to channel the savings into upgrading university infrastructure and increasing access to higher education for more Nigerians.
He said, “The news came with mixed feelings. First, it is good for Nigerian education if the expected money can be plunged into the university system to upgrade facilities. The issue of world-class education and research opportunities is nothing more than the commitment of resources to the sector. Thus, the saved money can be used for that.
“Second, the saved money can be used for more candidates within Nigeria to access higher education and research opportunities.”
On her part, Prof Maryam Abdu of the Kaduna State University said the suspension was caused by the deteriorating exchange rate, which has made it uneconomical for the government to continue with foreign training.
“The rate of US$1 to N1,780 or thereabouts is extremely expensive. Revenues in Nigeria, especially foreign exchange, are not forthcoming nor encouraging enough to continue to finance such programmes.
“The biggest challenge is that Nigerian institutions don’t have the capacity and infrastructure to absorb all the students. There are some courses that are not offered in Nigerian universities, which would further compound the problem,” she asserted.
Prof Abdu, however, urged the government to reconsider the issue and make scholarships available for some courses.
Similarly, the president of the National Association of University Students (NAUS), Comrade Peter Oche Josiah, said the action could limit access to specialised programmes and global exposure, affecting students’ career prospects and aspirations.
To address this, he said the government should focus on improving local universities by increasing funding, building infrastructure, and fostering international partnerships.
“While local institutions face challenges, with the right investments, they could provide quality education and research opportunities.
“This policy could initially reduce Nigeria’s attractiveness to international students unless significant reforms are made to elevate local education standards. Ultimately, the success of this policy depends on the government’s commitment to transforming local universities into world-class institutions.”
He also proposed a range of solutions or alternatives to the government, including strengthening domestic educational institutions, collaboration with international institutions, scholarships and grants for online learning, support for private sector involvement, improvement of research and development (R&D) in Nigeria, public awareness campaigns, and fostering innovation in education delivery.
A lawyer and public affairs analyst, Barr Carl Umegboro, knocked the policy, saying it was weak and weird.
“It’s more or less throwing the baby out with the bathwater. Whilst I concede there has been gross abuse of the policy, however, it is not sufficient to vote against it in entirety.”
According to him, all that is needed is to fight the abuse only by tightening the policy with checks and balances particularly by tying their participation to visible tasks and projects that must be completed after the main study time abroad. Irrefutably, going out there affords the scholars opportunity to interact with the global audience and space, and by doing so, they are able to measure our growth levels so we are not left behind all the time.
“This seclusive thinking is what has kept Nigeria trailing on every side of development. We measure our currency against foreign currencies, yet we want to cocoon the intellectual property by subjecting it to local standards.
“In science for instance, there are some kinds of knowledge that could only be acquired properly through hands-on experience obtainable from specific locations. Not until you go there, you may never know more than what you knew.
“The experiences scholars get during those programmes like the practical hands-on experience that broaden their scope of knowledge are enormous and very important. And those added knowledge usually come through those foreign programmes. And again, travelling, they say, is the best form of learning. Suffice it to say that shutting the door entirely on account of abuses is unacceptable,” Umegboro stated.
Similarly, some parents and students have expressed reservation over the new policy of the government.
They contended that knowledge is not stagnant as training goes beyond acquiring knowledge without practical knowledge that may not be available locally.
A medical student at the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Azeez Abidemi, said new medical grounds were being broken worldwide and wondered how their lecturers could benefit from such research if they are limited to Nigeria.
Also, a parent, Mr Olayiwola Atanda, said technology was advancing on a daily basis and the need to go outside the box for lecturers to acquire knowledge cannot be over-emphasised.
The speakers asked the government to rethink the measure especially when it was spending so much on overseas trips for officials on trivial issues.
A few days ago, several groups mounted campaigns, endorsing Seyi Tinubu, the son of President Bola Tinubu to become the next governor of Lagos State.
DAILY POST reports that it started with the Coalition of Nigerian Youth Leaders, CONYL, which in a statement in Owerri, Imo State, endorsed the President’s son for the Lagos governorship seat in 2027.
According to the Coalition, Seyi Tinubu had on several occasions proven through his philanthropic gestures that he is a man who is selfless in all senses of the word.
“When there was flooding in Borno State, Mr Seyi and his team were there to sympathize and show support to those Nigerians whose property, homes and means of livelihood were destroyed by the flood.
“He gave a lot of gift items, food, home utensils, drugs and money to the affected persons during that period when the sad event took place,” the coalition said.
Also, the Lagos branch of the Middle Belt Youths joined the call in a press conference, with the Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the Middle Belt Forum, Dr Stanley Augustine Kavwam, as well as the group’s National Youth Leader, Capt. Brent Kane, urging Seyi to step up in 2027, describing him as the leader Lagos needs.
In the same vein, a socio-political organisation, Friends of Seyi Tinubu, FOST, endorsed Seyi Tinubu for the 2027 contest.
Describing him as a visionary leader with a rare blend of intellect, empathy, and strategic acumen, the group said Seyi Tinubu is the quintessential choice to drive Lagos state into a future defined by prosperity and innovation.
A statement by its president, Comr. Adejorin Tai Manuel, said Seyi Tinubu’s philanthropic contributions, leadership acumen, and commitment to societal progress is evidence of his readiness to serve as governor.
The development has been drawing reactions from different stakeholders.
First to quickly react was a prominent member of the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, Joe Igbokwe, who voiced his opposition in a Facebook post, describing the endorsements as a ploy to undermine President Tinubu.
“Who are these faceless people pushing Seyi Tinubu for Lagos governor? This is a needless distraction. To pull PBAT down is their target. Ruling Lagos is not the job of boys,” Igbokwe wrote.
Similarly, a youth group under the aegis of the Coalition of Lagos Indigenous Youths rejected the endorsement, saying there was no vacancy for a non-indigene to occupy the Alausa Government House.
“Our attention has been drawn to the recent endorsement of Seyi Tinubu for Lagos governor by a group known as Coalition of Nigerian Youth Leaders, CONYL, and the group is described as the umbrella body of all the youth groups drawn across the six geopolitical zones in Nigeria.
“The said Coalition sat in Owerri, Imo State and publicly issued the statement of endorsement.
“While we know Mr Seyi Tinubu has his democratic rights as a Nigerian, we condemn the ill-fated endorsement and describe it as anti-democracy and a deliberate move by some faceless individuals to deny indigenes of Lagos State the right to govern themselves in 2027.
“It is no longer news that since 1999, no true blood indigene of Lagos State has taken over the mantle of leadership in the State (except one), the marginalization which underscores the essence of democracy and an outright denial of the indigenes of Lagos State the right to govern themselves.
“We know as a fact that there will soon be vacancy in Osun State where Mr Seyi Tinubu can best exercise his democratic rights unhindered.
“And if the people of Owerri in Imo are also interested in benefiting from the experience Mr Seyi Tinubu has acquired in recent times, they can push him to succeed Governor Uzodinma.
“As for us there is no vacancy for non-indigenes in Lagos State in 2027. The marginalization is too much and the marginalization has led to the underdevelopment in the state,” the group said.
On its part, the Lagos State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, said that citizens would resist any attempts to impose Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Tinubu, as the next governor of the state.
The state PDP spokesperson, Hakeem Amode, while rejecting the idea, said, “Lagos will not serve him.”
Amode asked whether governorship should become an inheritance, suggesting that it was inappropriate for a son to inherit such a role from his father.
He stressed that if the Tinubu camp were to resort to tactics similar to those used in Ondo and Edo states in the past, it would be met with resistance.
“Governorship is not a gift,” he stated.
Speaking to DAILY POST, a human rights activist, Deji Adeyanju, described the endorsement as laughable, adding that it was a clear indication that the people of Lagos State were taken for granted.
He queried if Nigeria, particularly Lagos State, was practising a monarchical system of government, where a father would pass the baton of leadership to his son in a democratic society filled with eligible and competent citizens.
According to him, such a thing happens because there is no election, adding that what takes place in disguise of election is ‘selection.’
While noting that everyone has the right to contest for election, Adeyanju called on the political actors of Lagos State to rise.
“It is a laughable endorsement because they have underrated Lagos people. If they rate them, such calls would not even be arising.
“Is Lagos a monarchy state, where the Tinubu’s family is supreme? Is it that power is the birthright of the Tinubu’s family?
“Is there something that people don’t know that should be known about them? Because I just don’t understand and can’t explain it.
“It makes no sense that they underrated Lagos people. And it’s because elections don’t take place there, it’s just selection. And because strong political office holders are never held accountable by the people, that’s why things go the way they go.
“Nigeria is practising federalism and not monarchy where political powers are being inherited from the father to the son.
“It therefore behoves on the political actors of Lagos State to stand up and do what is right for the state,” he stated.
[DailyPost]
The Katsina State Government and the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), led by the state chairman, reached an agreement late Friday on a ₦70,000 minimum wage consequential adjustment, averting a planned strike set for December 1.
The Secretary to the State Government, Abdullahi Garba Faskari, signed the agreement on behalf of the state government, accompanied by other officials, while the NLC chairman and union leaders signed on behalf of organized labour.
Implementation of the new ₦70,000 minimum wage is scheduled to begin in December 2024.
[TheNation]
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The fanfare that greeted the resumption of activities at the Port Harcourt Refining Company on Tuesday may have melted away leaving the hope and expectations of many Nigerians hanging.
A visit by Saturday PUNCH to the refinery on Friday revealed that there was no activity on site, as some workers met by our correspondent claimed that the refinery was undergoing calibration which might last till next week.
The Port Harcourt Refinery has faced numerous delays and missed deadlines to resume operations.
However, the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited, Melee Kyari, inaugurated the new plant at the Area 5 terminal of the refinery on Tuesday. It was claimed that 200 petrol trucks were loading daily from the plant.
However, the announcement was met with skepticism as reports circulated that the trucks were loaded with old products in the storage tanks.
Upon visiting the Port Harcourt Refinery Area 5, our correspondent observed no signs of activity.
An official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, revealed that the loaded trucks contained “dead stock”.
He said, “Before the refinery was shut down between 2015/2016, we had dead stock left in the tank, including some Premium Motor Spirit (petrol) DPK (kerosene), and Automated Gas Oil (diesel).
“So, these products were in large quantities in stores in those tanks. During the rehabilitation of the Port Harcourt Refinery, Old Area 5, those products were evacuated from the tanks for storage.”
However, he noted that the large quantity of refined petrol was “off-spec,” requiring separation from water to obtain the main product in preferred colours.
“But for DPK, it is in large quantity but they have not pushed it from the tank where it was kept after refined ready for commercial purposes.
“So, the product that was loaded was dead stock, that is the old product that was in the system. So, after these dead stocks, they will have to clean the tank, remove all the debris before pumping the new project into that tank, and redye it,” the source said.
The worker highlighted that refineries worldwide should operate electronically, not manually.
“But what they are trying to do at the Port Harcourt Refinery is manual, which cannot match the new digital pumps. Most of the pumps used for the event were refurbished,” he added.
He explained that during Kyari’s visit on Tuesday, seven trucks were prepared for loading, but only five were filled with petrol.
The Chairman of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria, Taken Ikpaki, while speaking to journalists during the inauguration of the facility on Tuesday, had expressed optimism.
He stated that more trucks were expected to come into the facility to load products in the coming days.
But rather than more trucks coming into the refinery, the number of trucks has dwindled.
Around 1.30pm when our correspondent visited, he observed that most workers and drivers appeared idle as no machinery was operational.
Nine trucks were seen parked, but the loading bay, numbered from one to 18, was empty and deserted, with some workers lying down.
When asked about the lack of loading activity, a worker in overalls said, “They are de-watering, removing the water under the PMS. Maybe there will be loading after that, but we don’t know what time today.”
Another worker at the loading bay mentioned that ongoing calibration was the reason for the delay.
“They are calibrating the meters,” he said tersely.
Findings by Saturday PUNCH showed that the PMS left in the storage might not be enough to fill five trucks.
A source indicated that calibration would continue until Monday, with the loading of DPK (kerosene) and AGO (diesel) expected to start by then.
Speaking to our correspondent, a resident of Alode in Eleme Local Government Area of Rivers State, who simply identified himself as Osaro, said, “After that ceremony with Mele Kyari where they said the refinery had started operation and loading was taking place, what happened afterwards? They continued loading on air, that is on the pages of newspapers and social media.”
When contacted for his reaction on the lack of activities on Friday, the National Public Relations Officer of the Petroleum Product Retail Outlet Owners Association of Nigeria, Dr Joseph Obelle, said it was as a result of ongoing calibration.
Obelle, the PETROAN spokesman, said, “They are calibrating the loading pumps. They will be done today.”
Meanwhile, it was gathered that the Senate Committee on Petroleum visited the refinery on Thursday on a facility tour. The outcome of the visit had yet to be made public.
Calls and text messages to the spokesperson for the NNPC, Olufemi Soneye, were not replied as of the time of filing this report.
But the NNPC had in a statement denied claims by an Alesa community leader, Timothy Mgbere, that the Port Harcourt refinery was not producing fuel.
Soneye accused Mgbere of crass ignorance of how a refinery runs.
He said, “The old and new Port Harcourt refineries have since been integrated with one single terminal for product load-out. They share common utilities like power and storage tanks. This means that storage tanks and loading gantry which he claimed belongs to the new Port-Harcourt Refinery can also receive products from the Old Port Harcourt Refinery.”
He called on the public to disregard claims borne out of “sheer mischief and blatant display of ignorance.”
[Punch]
Nigerians to Pay More For Calls, Data, SMS as NCC Set Date For New Tariff For MTN, Airtel, Others
AFOLABI
Nigerians may pay more for data and calls as the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) gets ready to unveil a new tariff plan for the telecommunications sector on December 13, 2024.
According to NCC, this initiative is part of ongoing efforts to simplify tariff plans and enhance consumer experience in the industry.
The Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, Dr. Maida Wada, disclosed this during an interactive session with the media in Abuja. Represented by the Director of Public Affairs, Mr. Reuben Muoka, Dr. Wada confirmed that the new date replaces the previously announced release date of October 27, which was postponed due to incomplete stakeholder processes.
“As of December 13, 2024, a new tariff plan will be announced. We have engaged stakeholders to contribute inputs,” Dr. Wada said.
The NCC has also directed telecom operators to limit their tariff and promotional plans to a maximum of seven. This directive aims to reduce complexity, ensure transparency, protect consumer interests, and promote fair competition.
Dr. Wada explained, “With this measure, telecom consumers will experience relief, and misconceptions about the use of data and airtime will be minimized. The commission has been conducting awareness campaigns through advertisements and advocacy to inform consumers.”
Addressing concerns about data depletion, Dr. Wada noted that an audit mandated by the NCC revealed a widespread misperception among consumers.
“What consumers must understand is that data usage differs across Android devices. The commission has embarked on public awareness to help consumers better understand data consumption,” he added.
The NCC also directed all licensed telecom operators to update their contact details before January 9, 2025, in compliance with the Licensing Regulations 2019.
“This directive aligns with the NCC’s efforts to enhance regulatory processes, improve industry oversight, and strengthen Nigeria’s telecommunications sector,” Mr. Muoka stated. He warned operators that non-compliance could result in penalties, including fines, license suspension, or revocation.
The Yoruba socio-political group, Afenifere, in the United Kingdom and Europe, has stated that the "no pain, no gain" philosophy of President Bola Tinubu's administration has reached its limit nationwide.
In a statement issued on Friday by its Secretary, Engineer Anthony Ajayi, in London, United Kingdom, the group acknowledged that while the current economic struggles were inherited from the previous administration of Muhammadu Buhari, some policies introduced by the Tinubu’s government have exacerbated the situation and require urgent review to alleviate the hardship.
Afenifere warned that if the situation worsens, many Nigerians could face even greater difficulties in their daily lives.
The group called on President Tinubu to use the remaining days of 2024 to prioritise the review of his policies and governance style in order to provide relief to the people by 2025.
It also urged both federal and state governments to introduce palliative measures to ease the suffering of Nigerians, especially during the holiday season.
“The time to get serious about good governance is now. Nigerians have suffered enough, and the situation cannot become any worse than it already is.
“This hardship is not just limited to those within Nigeria; Nigerians abroad are also feeling the impact. We urge President Tinubu to demonstrate leadership, put aside political agendas, and position himself positively in history.
“While he inherited many of these challenges from Buhari, he must show the capacity and resolve to lead,” the statement read.
On the President’s proposal to borrow an additional N1.77 trillion to cover the N9.7 trillion budget deficit for 2024, Afenifere expressed strong opposition, warning that continued borrowing would further devalue the Naira and damage the national economy.
The group stressed that borrowing is not a viable solution, given Nigeria’s heavy reliance on imports.
“We are not against borrowing in principle, but the question remains: what has the borrowing achieved? If the money borrowed only leads to more suffering for the masses, then the purpose of borrowing is defeated.
“Borrowing would be more justifiable if it were used prudently to improve infrastructure, foster industrial growth, and strengthen the economy.
“President Tinubu should consider bringing in creative and innovative economic technocrats into his cabinet, similar to the approach taken by the UK, to curb further borrowing.
“The UK government no longer needs to borrow; it can create money at will through the Bank of England.
“This model of economic management should be studied and adapted by Nigeria to break the cycle of borrowing.”
Afenifere also highlighted Nigeria's potential, urging the government to create an enabling environment for the industrious and hardworking population to contribute more effectively to the national economy.
The group expressed optimism about the progress made with the Port-Harcourt refinery, noting that it was nearing 70% completion and could soon begin operations.
They however commended President Tinubu for achieving this milestone, which was previously unattainable by past administrations.
“If all nine of Nigeria’s refineries were fully operational, there would be a significant improvement in the Naira’s value and the overall economy.
“The federal government must continue to foster the right conditions for such progress,” the statement added.
Afenifere called on Nigerians both at home and abroad to hold their state governors accountable for how they are utilizing the funds allocated to them.
“State governments are closer to the people, and it is important that we not only pressure the federal government but also hold our state governors to the same standard. We must ensure that the resources sent to the states are used effectively for the welfare of the citizens,” the group concluded.
•We may not be able to pay salaries if bills are passed
•Says some southwest, southeast states may also have problems
Governor Babagana Umara Zulum of Borno State has rejected the tax reform bills, sponsored by President Bola Tinubu’s administration, saying the bills will destroy the north.
The bills which seek to prioritize the location of consumption as the basis for sharing Value Added Tax, have faced stiff opposition, especially from the north, with stakeholders calling for its withdrawal.
Northern governors, traditional rulers, and Northern Elders Forum have rejected the proposed bills, saying they were not in the interest of the nation. However, despite protests and rejections of the pieces of the legislation, the Senate passed the bills for second reading on Thursday despite rowdiness at plenary.
Speaking on the development in an interview with BBC Hausa service, the governor expressed displeasure over how the bills enjoyed speedy and smooth passage to the current phase when other bills had spent several years to scale through.
He said, “We condemn these bills transmitted to the National Assembly. They will drag the north backward, and not only the north, South East, South West and some states in the South West such as Oyo, Osun, Ekiti, Ondo, will have problem with these bills.
“It is not opposition. This, based on our understanding, is something that will destroy the north in its entirety. Therefore, we call on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and others to review this decision. He secured 60% of his votes in the north. He should not listen to those telling him that northerners are not supporting him.
If our interest is served, that is all. What we need now is the withdrawal of the tax bills.
“Why all the rush! There’s a petroleum bill that was presented but it took almost 20 years before it was finally passed. But this one was transmitted and now receiving legislative attention within a week. What we are saying is that, let it be treated carefully and with caution so that even after our exit, our children would reap the benefits.
“How we see it is, if these bills scale through, we will not be able to even pay salaries. And if we paid, it won’t be sustainable the following year.”
Asked whether the bills would further exacerbate hunger and poverty in the north, Zulum answered in the affirmative, adding, “Including security. But they’re saying otherwise. We are against it, Lagos is against it; that it will drag it backwards. If this is the situation, then why won’t they rescind it? Our National Assembly members and even some from the Southern region are not in support of these bills.”
The governor, however, clarified that his objection of the bills was not a pointer of any opposition against the government, maintaining that it was only a call to reverse the decision.
“This is our stand and doesn’t mean that we are against the government. We supported and voted for him (President Tinubu). But these bills will not mean good for us.”
Asked to comment on whether the lawmakers would pass the bills when lobbied and given kickbacks, Zulum said, “There are rumours around but we are not certain. But you know we are in Nigeria! What I am saying is that let us all be patriotic. We have children, grandchildren and relatives who are in villages, therefore, we should be careful not to endorse anything that would impede the progress of the north and other regions. We are appealing to the President to listen to us and address our concerns.”
[Vanguard]