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The Department of State Services (DSS) in Osun State has reportedly summoned the Organising Secretary of the state chapter of the Take It Back (TIB) Movement,
Olasunkanmi Mary Oluwatosin, for questioning regarding the upcoming nationwide protest scheduled for April 7.
Naija News reports that the Take-It-Back Movement has firmly stated that it will proceed with the planned protest on Monday, which aims to highlight what they perceive as the “authoritarianism of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, violations of human rights, and the improper application of the Cybercrime Act.”
This protest is titled “Nationwide Protest Against Bad Governance and Suppression of Free Speech.”
According to SaharaReporters, a DSS official named Akin reached out to Oluwatosin through a WhatsApp message, requesting her presence at the DSS office in Osogbo, the state capital.
Oluwatosin informed journalists late Sunday evening that a DSS agent had contacted her on Saturday to inquire about the details of the protest.
She also mentioned that she received a call from an unknown number on Sunday, asking her to come to the DSS office for a “chat.”
When she inquired about the purpose of the invitation, the caller reportedly indicated that it was merely for a “conversation.”
“One DSS official called me yesterday and asked for details about our protest tomorrow, but I told her I wasn’t in town and knew nothing about the protest.
“Another number called me this evening, saying they wanted to see me in their office. When I asked why, the person said they just wanted to chat, but I told them I wasn’t in town,” she said.
Meanwhile, the National Coordinator of the TIB Movement, Sanyaolu Juwon, was said to have attempted to contact the DSS officer via WhatsApp, but the message remained undelivered at the time this report was filed
“Hello Mr. Akin. My name is Sanyaolu Juwon. I am the National Coordinator of the Take It Back Movement. One of our comrades called me from Osun that you have been harassing and intimidating her. I’d like to remind you that the right to protest is constitutionally guaranteed. You are advised to please desist from this,” Juwon reportedly wrote to the secret police.
A former presidential candidate and chieftain of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Adewole Adebayo, has revealed that a long list of politicians are set to join the party ahead of the 2027 presidential elections.
Adebayo disclosed that the SDP is in talks with several politicians and is ready to welcome them all ahead of the 2027 elections.
Naija News reports the former presidential candidate specifically identified the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, as well as his colleague in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, as part of the prominent names currently in discussion with the SDP and expected to join the party soon.
“People are joining my party, and we are welcoming them. You can see how active I am in welcoming them. The only little issue we have with some of them is to change the culture where if you have not been in an environment where rules are taken seriously.
“Some of them are doing some Boy Scouts, black market operations, we are dealing with that. But we welcome them into the party. All these people you have mentioned, El-Rufai, Atiku Abubakar, even former Governor Peter Obi are coming. A lot of people are coming, and we will welcome them,” the SDP chieftain said on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics.
Asked by the anchor to clarify his statement on Obi, Adebayo emphasized that the former Anambra State Governor is in talks to join the SDP.
He also emphasized the readiness of the party to unseat President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 elections.
“Supposedly, until somebody joins, we don’t know. But people have told me, and the Financial Secretary (SDP) has also informed me, that they are talking. So we will welcome everybody.
“Surely, when we come in, and we don’t become a tower of Babel; if we come in, follow the rules and allow one person to emerge transparently, clearly, without cheating, without criminality the way we did our convention in 2022, people applauded us transparently, no court case, no crisis, no allegations.
“If they can stick to our culture and follow the way we do in the SDP and produce a good alternative to Nigerians, we are going to manifestly defeat the APC and retire President Tinubu to Lagos or wherever he chooses in Nigeria,” he said.
Naija News reports that despite talks of an opposition coalition ahead of the 2027 elections, both Peter Obi and Atiku Abubakar have shut down rumours of dumping their current political parties.
The Labour Party (LP) has raised an alarm over what it describes as an alleged plot by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) to storm its national secretariat in Abuja with hired thugs, in collaboration with factions of the party.
The LP’s National Secretary, Umar Farouk Ibrahim, made the claim in a statement issued on Sunday.
The statement alleges that the NLC was working alongside the Nenadi Usman-led National Caretaker Committee (NCC) and the National Transition Committee (NTC) to carry out the planned invasion.
According to the statement, the planned action—allegedly funded by the Abia State government and an unnamed party leader—is expected to begin on Monday, April 7.
Ibrahim warned that the attempt would involve the forceful entry into party offices, the theft of sensitive documents, and the vandalization of party property.
The statement reads in part: “It has come to the knowledge of the leadership of the LP that the NLC is mobilising its members, hired thugs and miscreants… to invade the National Secretariat of our party.”
The LP accused the NLC of overstepping its bounds as a labour union by allegedly interfering in partisan political matters, which it said contravenes the legal framework establishing the congress.
The party referred to the April 5 Supreme Court ruling, insisting it affirmed that party leadership matters are internal affairs to be handled by political parties themselves.
“There is nowhere in the judgment that gave the NLC or any caretaker committee the authority to take over the leadership of the Labour Party,” the statement added.
The party reaffirmed that Barrister Julius Abure remains the duly elected National Chairman, having emerged from the March 2024 national convention.
It also called on security agencies, including the Nigeria Police and Department of State Services (DSS), to intervene and prevent any breach of peace in the Federal Capital Territory.
- Group to hit streets kicking against anti-cyber security law, Rivers emergency, others
- ‘Action subversive on Police National Day’
A showdown is likely today between the police and a group of protesters in Lagos, Abuja and some other capital cities, such as Ibadan and Port Harcourt.
A massive deployment of security men is expected across the country.
The police warned that it would not take kindly to a protest it described as “potential unrest or confrontation” planned by the “Take it Back Movement”.
It described the action as that of “subversive elements” acting on the pretence of economic hardship.
The Take it Back Movement group said the protest is against cyberbullying and the emergency declaration in Rivers State.
It added that it opposes the “illegal” extension of tenure for Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun.
The group said its members would converge under the bridge in Ikeja, Lagos, the frontage of the National Assembly complex in Abuja, Isaac Boro Park in Port Harcourt and Iwo Road in Ibadan.
While the police cautioned against the protest, which it described as sabotage having fallen on National Police Day, one of the organisers, Mr. Omoyele Sowore, a politician, insisted last night that the protest would go on.
Police spokesman Olumuyiwa Adejobi, an Assistant Commissioner, said: “The Nigeria Police Force acknowledges the constitutional right of citizens to peaceful protest.
“However, given the significance of April 7 as National Police Day, we urge the organisers to reconsider the timing of their planned demonstration.
“This is a day of national reflection and recognition for the force, and it is important that the occasion is not overshadowed by potential unrest or confrontation.
“In line with best global practices adopted by nations in celebrating the achievements of its Police institution, the Nigerian Government has taken the bull by the horns by declaring every April 7 as National Police Day.
“The rationale behind staging a nationwide protest on the same day is, however, questionable and perceived to be a deliberate attempt and unpatriotic act that is capable of rubbishing and maligning the image of the Nigeria Police and the nation as a whole.
“The Nigeria Police Force hereby advises the organisers to shelve this planned protest as it is ill-timed and mischievous.”
The police spokesman added that the National Police Day event would host high-profile dignitaries from within and outside the country, including foreign Inspector-Generals of Police and diplomats.
Sowore said there was no going back. Rather, he insisted it was the police that should reconsider their programme.
He said: “Regardless, tomorrow’s (today) protest must go on across Nigeria. Nothing can stop the movement of the people!”
‘Protest is subversive’
The Lagos Police Command also issued a similar warning in a statement by its Deputy Commissioner Tijani O. Fatai.
It said: “Intelligence report at the Command disposal reveals a plan by some subversive groups parading themselves as Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), and other misguided anti-government forces, to incite nationwide protest on 7th April 2025 aimed at drawing the attention of the government to their perceived prevailing high cost of living and free speech suppression.
“Furthermore, the groups have flooded the social media platforms with narrations geared towards winning public sympathy, discrediting the government and galvanising support for the protest.
“Experience has shown that criminals may want to seize the opportunity of the protest to cause mayhem, particularly to launch attacks on government facilities and opposition leaders to disrupt socio-economic activities in the state, amongst others.
“Consequently, the Commissioner of Police has ordered security measures to be beefed up around critical installations and other strategic locations across the state in order to forestall any untoward development before, during and after the proposed protest.
“This is to ensure all law-abiding citizens go about their normal business throughout the period unhindered; to ensure free flow of traffic in the state throughout the period of the protest; to ensure the security of lives and property in the state before, during and after the protest.
“Forces available: Manpower for this operation will be drawn from the Department of Operations, Ikeja; State Criminal and Intelligence and Investigation Department (SCIID), Yaba; Area Command Headquarters, Rapid Response Squad, Alausa; Task Force, Oshodi; PMF 2 Keffi; 20/22 PMF Ikeja; 23 Keffi; 43 Lion Building; 49 PMF Epe; 63 PMF Ikorodu; Counter Terrorism Unit Base 2, Special Protection Unit Bases 2, 16, 17 Lagos, and Anti Bomb Disposal Base 23, Lagos.”
Details Of Why Tope Alabi Refused To Perform At Lizzy Anjorin’s Surprise Birthday Party Emerge
AFOLABI
Nigerian filmmaker cum author, Oreofe Williams, privy to the controversy between Nollywood actress, Lizzy Anjorin and Nigerian singer, Tope Alabi, has said the latter and her team refused to perform at the surprise birthday of the movie star because they were not given the endeared privilege of a choice by conscience concerning the contract.
Lizzy’s fan club had collaborated with her husband to surprise her with a performance by Tope Alabi, whom they said she loved dearly.
However, the gospel singer and her husband, Soji Alabi, arrived at Lizzy’s clothing store in Lagos but declined to perform after realising they were to perform for the movie star.
Reacting, Lizzy Anjorin, in a video via her social media page, berated Tope for refusing to perform after she was paid ₦4 million, stressing she would not ruin the singer’s brand, which her husband built on an empty stomach.
The thespian recalled Tope Alabi’s issue with Prophet Ajanaku and how the world rejected her, but she supported her.
Clarifying the issue, Willimas, in a statement titled: “Concerning Evang. Tope Alabi and Lizzy Anjorin’s Birthday Surprise: An Unfortunate Conundrum”, explained that the sum of ₦2.5 million was paid to the Alabis and not the figures reported online.
He further noted that the cost value for the surprise performance was reduced by 70% because Soji Alabi considered his intervention.
The filmmaker questioned why the celebrant’s identity was hidden, noting the Alabis were angry after the discovery as they felt deceived.
He said, “Some weeks ago, a filmmaker contacted me because he needed Evang. Tope Alabi. The filmmaker told me that he wanted to surprise ‘someone he cherishes a lot’. No name was mentioned and I assumed it could be his wife or anybody.
“This conjecture is not far-fetched as he did create an impression that he was personally funding the surprise. No impression was given that it was a joint contribution by any team. Of course, I would not have doubted him because I’m not unaware that this filmmaker is rich enough to fund the surprise.
“I contacted Uncle Soji Alabi and after that, released his number to the filmmaker. It was supposed to be the birthday surprise of a public figure and I still marvel till tomorrow about why her name was conspicuously hidden by the filmmaker who contacted me.
“Uncle Soji informed me that day would be very busy and I pleaded with him to attend having considered any possibility for a rescheduling. He also mentioned the amount was low for a birthday surprise but I prevailed on Uncle Soji and he eventually honoured my plea to receive the agreed amount (after giving a 70% price reduction due to my intervention). However, the requirement of N2.5m was met for the birthday ‘SURPRISE’. Nonetheless, the identity remained hidden until they got to the venue.
“The main question is: Why was the celebrant’s identity hidden? And for what reason?
“It was at this moment I received a call from Uncle Soji who had already made up his mind to leave the venue. Sincerely speaking, I would never have spent the next 15 seconds there if I was in his position. Nobody loves to be manipulated. I can tell you authoritatively that he is the President of Gospel Vibes and he takes decisions.
“He told me on phone he was leaving. I also wondered why someone would keep a public figure anonymous even for me whose name he used to have such an access to the Alabis and reduce the amount to be paid.
“The reason they returned the money and left was not particularly because of the celebrant or anyone around the venue as I have read in some articles. They felt deceived and were not given the endeared privilege of a choice by conscience.
“Ministers Soji and Tope Alabi and their team have, on several occasions, honoured christians and moslems, as their fans cut across multiple languages and religions.
“Please note the sum received was N2.5m which was paid to the Alabis in three tranches and NOT N3.5m. The inflated price published by some writers is erroneous. The Alabis made an instant refund of N2.5m. I had to request for the payment receipts from the Alabis because I feel quite bitter about such manipulations and the grievous mob misinterpretations given to it.
“It is expedient to note that Integrity, transparency and accountability will always serve as the bedrocks to sustain healthy business relationships. You don’t ask a singer to ‘surprise’ a public-figure only to keep the celebrant anonymous and eventually ‘surprise’ the ‘surpriser’ at the venue. You will be more surprised!”
The Kwara State Teaching Service Commission has shorlisted 1,800 applicants for teaching appointments in the state.
This is contained in a statement issued by the commission’s Chief Press Secretary, Mr Sam Onile, made available to newsmen in Ilorin.
Onile said that the shortlisted applicants emerged from a screening, which included computer-based test, and interviews spanning over three months.
”The shortlisted comprises 790 (44%) for STEM subjects; 581 for core subjects; 370 for specialised subjects; and 59 for technical subjects.
”They will be assigned to senior secondary schools across the 16 local government areas of the state in line with the needs assessment of the commission,” he said.
Onile advised applicants who appeared for the interviews to check their status on the portal, adding “those shortlisted will undergo a mandatory drug test to ascertain their suitability to teach children.
”The drug test will be carried out by the NDLEA and will be coordinated by the Special Assistant to the Governor on Drugs Abuse, Prevention and Control, Hon. Mukail Aileru.
”The test will begin on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, and end on Saturday April 12, 2025. Shortlisted candidates from Baruten, Edu, Kaiama, and Patigi are slated for Wednesday.
“Those from Ekiti, Ifelodun, Irepodun, and Isin will be tested on Thursday, April 10; Offa, Oke Ero, Oyun, and Moro are slated for Friday, April 11, while the candidates from Asa, Ilorin East, Ilorin South, and Ilorin West are to have theirs on Saturday.
“The drug test certificates will be sent to the commission by the NDLEA as no candidate is allowed to access it on their own to curb altering,” he said.
The official said that successful applicants would also sign a bond not to seek transfer for six years, a policy response to the dearth of teachers in rural areas.
“Shortlisted applicants are to also come with medical certificates from any state government hospital as well as the original copies of their credentials for documentation, during which they will be required to drop photocopies of same for record purposes.
“They will also submit handwritten letters of acceptance of the job offer, while other conditions of service will be spelt out during the documentation process,” Onile added.
(NAN)
Momentum is building behind a growing coalition aiming to challenge President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid, as talks among opposition leaders intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Central to ongoing negotiations is a proposal for the coalition to back a southern presidential candidate committed to serving only a single term.
It is understood that northern stakeholders are advocating for this strategy, with pressure mounting on former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to step aside in favour of a southern aspirant.
“There are numerous concerns among all stakeholders involved in the coalition negotiations, with the North-South issue being the primary concern,” a source privy to the talks disclosed.
“Most of us understand that if we field a competent and credible southern candidate, defeating President Tinubu would be much easier. Therefore, many stakeholders, especially those from the North, are urging Atiku to step down and allow the coalition to support a southern candidate who will serve a single term if elected. In fact, some of these stakeholders are insisting that any southern aspirant the coalition will support must agree to a single-term commitment.”
Meanwhile, sources indicate that there are internal disputes within the coalition particularly over zoning and personal ambitions of key stakeholders. This, the insiders said, has delayed concrete agreements.
“These issues are emerging, but we are committed to addressing them as they arise and accommodating the many Nigerians who are fed up with the APC’s maladministration,” the coalition source added. “Our goal is to ensure a fair process that represents the interests of the people and strengthens the unity of the coalition.”
When contacted, the National Secretary of the Coalition of United Political Parties, Peter Ahmeh, confirmed that a single-term agreement is among the proposals under consideration.
“The signing of a single-term agreement by a southerner is part of what is on the table, but this has not been concluded yet. It has not reached a conclusion,” Ahmeh said in an interview. “Peter Obi and some other southern aspirants are involved. I believe that the decision will be reached in the next few weeks.”
He continued, “There are many options on the table. People are bringing different permutations, but the fact still remains that you can’t put the cart before the horse. As soon as the agreement is reached, we will communicate it to the public.”
Ahmeh also compared the current wave of opposition to the movement that ousted former President Goodluck Jonathan, stating, “It is very obvious that more Nigerians have realised that this government is doing us more harm than good. So, quite a lot of Nigerians are joining the coalition. There are more opposition forces against this government than there were against former President Jonathan in 2014.”
He urged stakeholders to remain united, adding, “I urge all coalition stakeholders and other opposition leaders to sustain this commitment so that we can come together to rescue this country from the failed APC.”
Meanwhile, Atiku through his media aide, Paul Ibe, urged caution amid the flurry of speculation surrounding the coalition’s internal deliberations.
“The agreement must be between the stakeholders, and we cannot speculate about it because discussions are still ongoing. We don’t need to reach conclusions while discussions are still ongoing. Once an agreement is reached, it will be binding, but until then, we must refrain from drawing conclusions about the ongoing process,” Ibe stated.
“Yes, His Excellency, Atiku Abubakar is committed. What’s important for him is not to put the cart before the horse. His Excellency, like other leaders, believes that the only way to remove those who don’t mean well for our people and our country is by having a strong, united coalition.”
“That coalition must be robust and strong enough to push forward. That is what they are working towards, and it is the most important goal, above all else,” he added.
Also speaking, SDP National Chairman Shehu Gabam confirmed that consultations are ongoing nationwide.
“I am not in a position to say anything now. I can’t tell you what we intend to do and how far we have gone, consultation is ongoing,” he said. “We are doing more consultations. When we get to the bridge, we’ll cross it. But our consultations are ongoing nationwide. I am not going to disclose who is involved in the consultation and other details.”
It can be recalled that on March 20, Atiku, alongside Labour Party’s Peter Obi and former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, declared the formation of a coalition aimed at removing Tinubu from office. The development, it is understood followed weeks of high-level consultations and key political realignments, including El-Rufai’s defection from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the Social Democratic Party (SDP) on March 10.
Crude Oil Refinery Owners Association of Nigeria has said that the price of Premium Motor Spirit (petrol) can drop below N400 per litre with the current crash in crude oil prices.
CORAN argued that there is no reason petrol should not be sold at NN350 per litre if crude prices eventually fall to $50 per barrel.
However, CORAN said petrol prices will continue to rise despite the crash in crude prices and the reduction in its landing cost.
CORAN feared that unless the Federal Government continues the naira-for-crude deal, the price of petrol will be on the rise even if the price of crude oil falls to $50 per barrel.
The PUNCH reports that oil prices plunged last week to $65 per barrel as the United States import tariffs and an unexpected OPEC+ supply hike erased $10 per barrel from global benchmarks.
The price had appreciated earlier when US President Donald Trump imposed tariffs on any country that buys crude from Venezuela.
However, oil prices turned the corner as of Friday, with Brent falling to $65, the first time since 2021.
According to oilprice.com, the combined effect of Trump’s import tariffs, OPEC+’s inopportune decision to speed up the unwinding of production cuts, and China’s retaliatory actions wiped off $10 per barrel from global oil prices, “with ICE Brent falling below $65 per barrel for the first time since August 2021.”
The US West Texas Intermediate crude futures lost $4.96, or 7.4 per cent to end at $61.99.
China’s retaliatory tariffs on US goods were said to have escalated a trade war that has led investors to price in a higher probability of recession.
China, the world’s top oil importer, announced it will impose additional tariffs of 34 per cent on all US goods from April 10.
According to Reuters, nations around the world have readied retaliation after Trump raised tariffs to their highest in more than a century.
Aside from the tariffs, another factor that further pressured oil prices was the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and Allies’ decision to advance plans for output increases.
The group now aims to return 411,000 barrels per day to the market in May, up from the previously planned 135,000 bpd.
In a bulletin released by the Major Energies Marketers Association of Nigeria, it was disclosed that the landing cost of petrol has dropped from N885 the week before to N865 as of Saturday.
However, despite the landing cost reduction, the ex-depot price of petrol rose from N860 to N900 per litre in Lagos, signalling the failure of the Nigerian market to react positively to the market forces.
In an interview with our correspondent, the Publicity Secretary of the CORAN, Eche Idoko, expressed worry that the price of crude in the international market is reducing but the price of refined fuel in Nigeria is shooting up before the naira has been falling due to pressure.
According to him, the naira-for-crude policy is purely targeted at ensuring energy security for the country and stabilising the strength of the naira.
Idoko lamented that some individuals are still hellbent on continuing a regime of importing substandard petroleum products into the country.
Idoko explained that some middlemen do not want local refining to succeed, and they have since resorted to kicking against the naira-for-crude deal.
According to him, the price of petrol was heading to N700 per litre before the naira-for-crude deal was discontinued.
“The price will continue to rise because these middlemen are the elements that want to see that local refining is not sustained. Because when we turned to local refining in this country, we saw the price of petroleum products dropping to as low as N700 plus. And it was going to go down more like we promised you guys. I granted an interview to you guys and said that if local refining is ramped up, the price of petroleum products is going to come down. I was even audacious enough to say that we could even see it drop to as low as N350. And it was heading towards that because if crude drops to $50, for instance, there’s no way that we won’t sell petrol at about N350.
“These are possibilities. Unfortunately, we have middlemen who pride themselves as agents. They have no scheme in the game other than that they have fixed prices because they don’t have risk. All they do is that they connect Nigerian consumers with international traders and then make their money and go away. So, they don’t have anything to lose. They have no investment in this business. They just come in as agents, make money, and then cash out,” he submitted.
Idoko said, “It is foolhardy for anybody to think that in their bid to continue a regime of importing substandard petroleum products, they will thwart the naira-for-crude policy.
“I know that the advisers of President Bola Tinubu, who, incidentally, is the Minister of Petroleum Resources, have been able to analyse where we were before the naira-for-crude policy; where we came to after the implementation of the policy; and where we are heading to after the pilot test of the naira-for-crude policy.
“I hope you know that as we speak, the price of crude in the international market is reducing; meanwhile, the price of refined food in Nigeria is shooting up. It is simply because of the FX effect. And we have simply said it is a no-brainer. Give crude in naira to local refineries so Nigerians can, at least, enjoy the benefit of being the largest oil-producing country in Africa,” he stated.
Asked to justify why the price of fuel is going up when crude oil has fallen to $65 per barrel globally, the CORAN spokesman blamed foreign exchange, logistics, and the effects of middlemen.
“The price will keep rising because of the FX and logistics effects. The cost of logistics, when you add it to the cost of FX, would make the price go up. And of course, because of the money involved when you have to also accommodate the middlemen who sell.
“You know when you want to rent a house, you need the agency fee. If you add the agency fee, the price goes up. That’s what happens. That’s why you can’t get it cheaper. You have the FX effects, and you have the effects of the logistics of shipping in refined petroleum products. And then, you also have the effect of the middlemen. All these will push the cost of petroleum products high in Nigeria,” he added.
Idoko noted that the refiners would not bother to join issues with elements who want to do propaganda or turn the naira-for-crude deal into political issues, saying the success of the policy is affecting a few selfish individuals’ incomes.
“We know why we invested and ventured into the midstream segment. But we know what these elements want. We know what their interest is. We just leave it to Nigerians to judge which is the best. And I think the government also would know what is best for it. One of the most brilliant policies they have implemented was the naira-for-crude. I hope they will sustain it. But if they don’t, I am sure they have better judgement,“he submitted.
The CORAN spokesman regretted that local refiners have to resort to foreign nations to source crude oil.
“Unfortunately, our major refiners have had to resort to other sources so that their investment would not shut down. For that reason, a lot of them have been talking to other producers to get crude so their refineries can run. And it speaks to the fact that a lot of elements, rather than see to the development of this country, are trying to play politics with something as important as energy security.
In October, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited began the naira-for-crude deal with the Dangote refinery as part of an initiative to deflate Nigerian fuel prices.
However, the national oil companies delivered roughly 280,000 b/d of crude to Dangote in naira by March 10, falling shy of the 385,000 b/d agreed under the deal, S&P Global said.
As the six-month deal ended last month, there are growing concerns that the FG may not renew it, and this has caused a hike in fuel prices after the Dangote refinery announced the suspension of naira fuel sales.
The price of a litre of petrol now ranges between N920 and N970, depending on the location.
LG workers, teachers in Zamfara, C’River, Abia, others yet to get minimum wage
The National President of the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees, Alhaji Haruna Kankara, on Sunday, said about 20 states have yet to implement the N70,000 new minimum wage for local government workers and primary school teachers.
The states include Yobe, Gombe, Zamfara, Kaduna, Imo, Ebonyi, Cross River, Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Borno and 11 others.
The NULGE leader disclosed this in response to questions from The PUNCH on the implementation of the new minimum wage with reference to the LG workers and primary school teachers in the country.
Following the signing of the Minimum Wage Act, 2024 into law, about 20 states commenced the implementation of the new wage law.
The states included Lagos, Rivers, Bayelsa, Niger, Enugu, Akwa Ibom, Abia, Adamawa, Anambra, Jigawa, Gombe, Ogun, Kebbi, Ondo, Kogi and others.
President Bola Tinubu signed the N70,000 minimum wage bill into law on July 29, 2024, after months of negotiations with labour unions.
The new monthly minimum wage was raised by 133 percent from N30,000 to N70,000, amid the economic hardship in the country.
Giving an update on the implementation of the law, Kankara said, “We truly have the challenge of so many states, like about 20 that have not started implementing the new minimum wage.
“We have states like Sokoto, Yobe, Gombe, Zamfara, Kaduna, Imo, Ebonyi, Borno, Cross Rivers, FCT Abuja, among others. Some have started paying the state workers leaving out the local government workers and primary school teachers but we have continued to engage and plead with them to do the needful for these workers.
“Some of them promised but failed to fulfil their promise but we are hoping that just very soon all of these would have been resolved.”
On the implementation of the LG autonomy, the NULGE leader explained that the Central Bank has yet to communicate with the councils on the opening of bank accounts.
“What the union has always demanded is for the Central Bank of Nigeria to issue a circular for the local government to open an account with them but up till now, that is yet to be done,” he disclosed.
The Kwara State President of NULGE, Seun Oyinlade, said the state government started paying the N70,000 to the state workers in October 2024.
However, he lamented that the heavy taxation imposed by the government on the workers has reduced the workers’ take home pay.
“The implementation of the N70,000 minimum wage approved for the workers in the state have been implemented for local government staff since October 2024 but the heavy taxes imposed by the state government have greatly affected the take home pay of our members.
“When the state branch of the Nigeria Labour Congress appealed to the state government to reduce the taxes, the government only gave the workers three months of tax relief, which has ended in December 2024 but the government has started deducting the tax since January,” he added.
The NLC state chairman, Muritala Olayinka, confirmed that the state government had started payment of the new salary to all categories of workers in the state.
He noted, “The Kwara State government started the implementation of the new minimum wage to all categories of workers since October last year and all workers have started enjoying the new salary.
“Although the workers complained of high taxation which the NLC made an appeal for one year tax holiday but the government only approved three months tax holiday for the workers which had ended in December.
“The congress had since written a letter to the governor for the extension of the tax holiday. We are waiting for a reply from the government, and we hope it is going to be positive.”
A teacher in Sokoto confirmed that the state government has implemented the new minimum wage for teachers and local government workers in the state.
Abdullahi Umar said all the workers in the state have been enjoying the new salaries since January.
“We have been paid the new minimum wage with effect from January. Although the implementation was delayed due to FAAC allocation. We received the January and February payment a few weeks ago,” he said.
An LG worker, Usman Abdullah, corroborated Umar, stating that N50,000 was added to their old salary.
“They added N50,000 naira to our salary, but the last minimum wage of N30,000 naira was not implemented at the local government level. This administration added N 50,000 to our old salary as our minimum wage benefit,’’ he pointed out.
Meanwhile, data obtained from the National Union of Teachers revealed that some teachers have yet to be paid the N30,000 minimum wage of 2019.
The data revealed that Zamfara, Yobe, Taraba, Sokoto, Niger, Kogi, Kaduna, Imo, Gombe, Cross River, Borno, Benue, Adamawa and Abia State have yet to implement the N30,000 minimum wage for teachers.
Some LG teachers appealed for the Federal Government’s intervention.
A teacher, who spoke on the condition of anonymity for fear of victimization, said, “For us in Yobe, we haven’t even benefited from the previous minimum wage, how can someone who didn’t even enjoy N30,000 talk of enjoying the N70,000. We appeal to the president to please intervene.”
A teacher in the Bwari Area Council of the FCT lamented the neglect of the LG workers and teachers by the FCT Administration.
Speaking on condition of anonymity, he said, “In FCT, not only teachers are involved but all other categories of LG workers. Last month, we went on strike, and we resumed after a few days due to negotiation. It is so unfair the way LG workers are being treated in this country.’’
On March 24, 2025, teachers in public primary schools in the FCT embarked on the fourth strike in four months.
The teachers boycotted the classes twice in December last year and once in February this year.
They were protesting the non-implementation of the N70,000 national minimum wage by the chairmen of the six area councils.
The latest strike disrupted the second term examinations in most of the schools across the six area councils.
Announcing the strike in a communique issued at the end of an emergency State Wing Standing Committee meeting, the teachers emphasised that one of the critical agreements reached during previous negotiations was the implementation of the new minimum wage for primary school teachers in February 2025, which formed the basis for suspending the previous strike.
The union expressed disappointment over the payment process, stating, “The payment of February salary by the councils without recourse to the union and the New Minimum Wage is disturbing, disheartening, and lacking in sympathy for the plight of primary school Teachers in the FCT.”
The SWSC questioned the ongoing financial burden on teachers, asking, “Why the continuous impoverishing of the impoverished? Why impose continuous hardship and suffering on the teachers and their families? Enough Is Enough!”
The communique outlined several demands, including immediate implementation of the national minimum wage in February salaries, with the payment of the differential between the old and new wages.
It demanded “The payment of March salaries according to the new minimum wage; Disbursement of six months’ worth of minimum wage arrears as previously agreed and immediate steps towards implementing various allowances, including a 40 percent peculiar allowance and additional salary increases.’’
The National President of the NUT, Titus Amba and Secretary General, Mike Ene, could not be reached for comment on Sunday as calls to their phones indicated they were switched off.
The Secretary-General of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria, Mohammed Abubakar, told The PUNCH that state commissioners of finance were frustrating the direct payment of allocation to the councils, which has affected the finances of the LGAs.
A group known as the De Renaissance Patriots Foundation has opposed the reported consideration of former Lagos State Deputy Governor, Femi Pedro, for an ambassadorial position meant to represent Lagos State.
In a statement released on Sunday by its media office, the foundation raised concerns over Pedro’s eligibility for the position, emphasising that he is not an indigene of Lagos State, despite having served as the deputy governor in the past.
The group criticised the ongoing practice of appointing non-indigenes to positions meant for Lagos, which it argued undermines the state’s constitutional rights and the interests of its indigenous people.
The statement read, “It has come to our attention that Femi Pedro is being considered for appointment as an Ambassador representing Lagos State. We strongly oppose this move and urge all well-meaning Lagosians to speak out against it before the appointment is finalised.
“Femi Pedro is not an indigene of Lagos State, regardless of him being ‘appointed’ once as Deputy Governor for whatever reason, favouring the party, and as such should not be presented as a representative of our state in any national or international capacity.
“The continued use of Lagos State’s constitutional quota for non-indigenes is both unjust and unacceptable. We must not allow a repeat of what happened with the recent ministerial appointment, where the true sons and daughters of Lagos State were sidelined in favour of outsiders.”
The foundation stressed that the ambassadorial position is a significant platform that should reflect the voice and heritage of Lagosians.
It contended that Lagos deserves authentic representation at all levels of government, particularly in roles that directly serve the state’s cultural and political aspirations.
The group also pointed to the recent ministerial appointment, which it claimed saw the sidelining of indigenous Lagosians in favour of outsiders, reinforcing their concerns about the marginalisation of the state’s true sons and daughters.
The De Renaissance Patriots Foundation called on political leaders, traditional rulers, community groups, and all concerned citizens to defend the rights of Lagos indigenes.
It urged that Lagos State’s constitutional quota be strictly reserved for qualified indigenes who are deeply connected to the state’s values, culture, and needs.
The group added, “The ambassadorship is a critical platform that should reflect the voice, interest and heritage of Lagos State and its indigenous people. We deserve authentic representation at all levels of government, particularly in appointments that are meant to serve the interests of our state.
“We call on all Lagos-based political leaders, traditional rulers, community associations, and concerned citizens to rise in defence of our rights. We must demand that the Lagos State quota is reserved strictly for qualified indigenes who have lived the Lagos experience and can genuinely represent our culture, values and aspirations.
“This is not just about one nomination; it is about preserving the dignity, identity and rightful place of Lagosians in the national landscape.”
In its final appeal, the foundation urged the Department of State Services and other authorities involved in the screening of ambassadorial nominees to reject Pedro’s nomination, reiterating its commitment to safeguarding the identity and dignity of the people of Lagos.
“Let it be known — we will not remain silent anymore while our state is continually being shortchanged because of political expediency and gerrymandering by those who are determined to keep the indigenes of the state in perpetual servitude in order to achieve their political objectives.
“To this end, we call to the Department of State Services and others involved in the screening of nominees for ambassadorial positions not to screen or confirm Femi Pedro because he is not an indigene of Lagos State,” the statement added.
The Federal Government is currently reviewing potential candidates for diplomatic positions across its 109 missions, 76 embassies, 22 high commissions, and 11 global consulates, according to Sunday PUNCH.
Reliable sources close to the process have disclosed that former Aviation Minister under the Obasanjo administration, Mr. Femi Fani-Kayode, and Pedro are among the nominees.
Sunday PUNCH also learned that the vetting process is not being handled centrally; instead, nominees are instructed to report to the nearest DSS office for their evaluations.
[Punch]
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The Federal Government has said that the 14 percent reciprocal tariffs imposed on Nigeria by US President, Donald Trump, has the potential of adversely impacting on Nigeria’s oil and non-oil exports.
The Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, stated in a statement, saying that the development could potentially disrupt trade relations and undermine the competitiveness of Nigerian products in the US market, especially in sectors reliant on market access and price competitiveness.
She, however, reiterated the federal government’s commitment to mitigating the impact while accelerating economic diversification.
According to the minister, Nigeria’s exports to the United States have averaged $5–6 billion annually in the last two years.
Oduwole said: “A significant portion of Nigeria’s exports (over 90 per cent ) comprises crude petroleum, mineral fuels, oils, and gas products. The second-largest export category, accounting for approximately 2–3 per cent, includes fertilizers and urea, followed by lead, representing around one per cent of total exports valued at approximately $82 million.
“Nigeria also exports smaller quantities of agricultural products such as live plants, flour, and nuts, which account for less than two per cent of our total exports to the U.S.
“While oil has long dominated Nigeria’s exports to the US, non-oil products, many previously exempt under AGOA, now face potential disruption.
“A new 10 per cent tariff on key categories may impact the competitiveness of Nigerian goods in the U.S. For businesses in the non-oil sector, these measures present destabilising challenges to price competitiveness and market access, especially in emerging and value-added sectors vital to our diversification agenda.”
The minister also noted that smaller businesses, particularly SMEs, that rely on the African Growth and Opportunity Act exemptions would feel the brunt of the new tariff, with rising costs and uncertain buyer commitments likely to make market access even more difficult.
She added, “This development strengthens Nigeria’s resolve to boost its non-oil exports by strengthening quality assurance, control, and traceability in Nigerian exports to meet global standards and improve market acceptance into more economies across the globe.”
[Vanguard]
Federal Government has disclosed that it would take delivery of the first batch of 3,205,101 pre-paid meters in the month of April in order to bridge the metering gap in the country.
Minister of Powers, Adebayo Adelabu made this known in a statement by its Special Adviser, Communication and Media Relations, Bolaji Tunji on Sunday.
It was stated that 75,000 meters under the International Competitive Bid 1 (ICB1) is expected by April 2025, followed by the second batch of 200,000 meters in May 2025.
The statement read, “It has been reported that the Power sector is being confronted with metering challenges which portrayed a narrative that overlooks significant progress in bridging the metering gap.
“While challenges persist, the facts tell a more balanced story – one of sustained effort, financial commitment, and structured implementation plans by the Federal Government of Nigeria to close the metering gap”
“Despite claims of stagnation, metering installations have been progressing steadily. As of December 2024, a total of 5,502,460 customers had been metered, representing about 55 percent of the 10,114,060 active electricity customers in Nigeria. In 2024 alone, 572,050 meters were installed.
While the government acknowledges the existing metering gap, it is actively working to close it as quickly as possible. However, the fact remains that a sizeable portion of active electricity users already have meters, countering the exaggerated portrayal of an industry in crisis”.
“Though installation rates have varied over the years, the sector maintains a yearly average of about 668,000 meters installed. Additionally, structured financing and government-backed initiatives are expected to accelerate deployment beyond the current pace, ensuring that the metering gap is addressed efficiently.
“To bridge this gap, the government has put in place key initiatives aimed at significantly improving metering across the country. The Distribution Sector Recovery Program (DISREP) is set to deliver 3,205,101 meters by 2026. This will be achieved through different procurement models, including 1,437,501 meters through International Competitive Bid 1 (ICB1), 217,600 meters through National Competitive Bid (NCB), and 1,550,000 meters through International Competitive Bid 2 (ICB2). As part of this plan, the first batch of 75,000 meters under ICB1 is expected by April 2025, followed by the second batch of 200,000 meters in May 2025.
“In addition to the DISREP, the ₦700 billion Presidential Metering Initiative (PMI) is another key intervention designed to accelerate metering. The initiative, which has already secured ₦700 billion from the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC), is structured to ensure large-scale meter procurement and deployment. A Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) has been established to oversee the implementation of the initiative.
The government has set a target of deploying two million meters annually for five years, with the tender for the first batch of two million meters expected to be released by the third quarter of 2025. These structured interventions provide a clear roadmap for addressing the metering gap in an effective and sustainable manner”.
The statement reveals further that, “while the metering gap remains a concern, the notion that it will take over a decade to resolve is misleading. With the ongoing DISREP and PMI initiatives, Nigeria’s metering landscape is set to experience significant improvement before the end of the year”.
Alex Otti, governor of Abia state, says he has no intention of running for the senate after his “eight-year” stint.
Otti spoke on Saturday at a reception held in his honour by the Anambra Development Unions Association, Aba branch.
He dismissed reports suggesting he was eyeing a senate seat, describing them as “unfounded” and “misleading”.
“When I finish my eight years here, I will retire. I am not going to Abuja,” the governor said.
He also urged critics to refrain from spreading what he termed “falsehoods”, adding that the political space should be opened up for younger Nigerians.
“We are no longer that young. Society is changing, and the young ones are rising. It’s time we give them the opportunity,” he said.
The governor also spoke about plans to revisit the 2011 disengagement of 154 civil servants, most of whom were teachers.
He said he had directed the head of service to conduct an urgent review of the matter and propose possible remedies.
Otti said those below the age of 65 might be re-engaged on a contract basis, particularly to address the shortage of teachers in the state.
He faulted the disengagement, which was reportedly based on state of origin, describing it as “unjust” and “illegal”.
“For those outside the age bracket, we’ll find fair compensation mechanisms,” the governor said.
Otti reiterated his administration’s commitment to justice, inclusion, and “correcting the wrongs of past administrations”.
Bukky Raji has recounted how she lost two sisters to terminal illnesses, which significantly impacted her life and acting career.
In a recent interview with her colleague Biola Adebayo, the actress said she grew up in a polygamous family with four siblings from her mother.
The film star, who lost her father at age seven, disclosed that her close-knit relationship with her mother played a significant role in her life.
She said that when her mother suffered a stroke, she put her acting career on hold to care for her.
Bukky revealed that one of her sisters passed away due to kidney disease, while the other had a hidden condition, later suspected to be HIV or diabetes.
She disclosed that her family did not have the understanding or resources to diagnose the condition accurately, and it was only after her sister’s passing that they ran tests to determine the cause of her illness.
The actress said she delayed her marriage until she was over 30 because she wanted to be close to her mother, who eventually passed away.
“When I was single if my mummy says ‘Biodun where are you? I want to see you. It has been a while since I saw you’. I would immediately visit her. Later, when she got sick and had a stroke, I did not leave her.
“When I wanted to get married, I told my husband I did not want to stay far from my mother. That thing just worked that we were lived close to her. She died a few years ago. I miss her so much. I miss all my dead people.
“I lost two sisters from the same mum. From the five us. One died of kidney issues. The other, too, was very sick. We later realised, because we did not have the understanding then, that she had diabetes or HIV. I could not confirm it then. Later, we had to run a test on her. The other members of the family that are remaining had nothing to the glory of God. The one that had kidney issues died first.
“My two sisters died before my mum. It was very hard. It was one of the things that made me stay away from acting.”
Bukky began her acting journey in 1999, featuring in Yoruba films