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According to the Association of Bureau De Change Operators of Nigeria (ABCON), BDC operators are purchasing dollars at N980/$ in the open market and selling them at N1,020/$.
This was confirmed by the President of ABCON, Aminu Gwadebe, while featuring on a Channels Television programme, Business Incorporated, where he stated that the naira has appreciated faster than expected against the United States Dollar.
Gwadebe applauded the government and the Central Bank of Nigeria for its efforts so far, saying it’s the first time in the last 15 years that the exchange rate for the dollar in the parallel market is less than that at the official window.
He acknowledged that there is now calmness in the market as speculation which has been one of the major destabilisation factors is no longer there.
Gwadebe said: “Our quote rate we buy at N980 and we sell at N1,020 as at now.
‘’There is a lot of confidence, we have seen how the central bank treasury bills have been oversubscribed and we have seen how they have also corrected the flows of diaspora remittances. Now we are having a chunk of diaspora remittances coming in because of the so many policies of the central bank that tried to calibrate how the inflows should be coming in even though there is a lot of gaps that is not coming that is still externalised in the diaspora window.’’
‘He already declared support for Tinubu in 2027’ – Dino Melaye reveals why he attacked Ortom
AFOLABIDino Melaye, a former Kogi senator has clarified reason for his altercation with Samuel Ortom, the former governor of Benue at the Peoples Democratic Party meeting on Wednesday.
Melaye had engaged in an heated argument with the ex-governor of Benue at a crucial meeting of the PDP north-central geopolitical zone in Abuja.
Melaye at the meeting expressed shock that Ortom could feel comfortable sitting in a PDP meeting, walking in majestically after his alleged anti-party activities that made the party lose both the presidential and gubernatorial elections in Benue state.
The two had a verbal encounter when the former senator declared that Ortom should face disciplinary action from the PDP.
Taking to his account on the X platform on Thursday, Melaye said he ‘attacked’ Ortom because the former Governor betrayed the PDP in the 2023 election, has already declared support for President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 elections, hence, should not be in attendance at a PDP meeting.
Melaye on Thrusday wrote on X (formerly twitter) that he attacked Ortom because he betrayed the PDP in the 2023 election and has already declared support for President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 elections, hence, should not be in attendance at a PDP meeting.
“Why will Ortom attend a PDP meeting after declaring support for Tinubu in 2027. Hence, my altercation with him at the PDP North Central Zone leadership meeting,” Melaye wrote.
On Jan 8, Ortom said that the G5 governors of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) would replicate support for President Bola Tinubu’s candidacy in 2027 if he decided to seek re-election
The party’s NEC meeting is scheduled to take place on Thursday (today).
Media
Dino Vs Ortom at PDP North Central Zone leadership meeting.
— Imran Muhammad (@Imranmuhdz) April 18, 2024
Melaye expressed surprise at Former Governor Ortom ease in attending a PDP meeting despite his previous disloyalty to the party. The two engaged in a heated exchange during the encounter. pic.twitter.com/Y8WTycJ88q
Workers of Nigerian Breweries Plc are set to lose their jobs as the brewer is shutting down two of its nine factories in Nigeria over rising operation costs.
The decision is coming after the brewer recorded N106bn loss in 2023 as a result of challenging economic factors ranging from heightened operational costs, rising inflation rates and foreign exchange volatility.
Nigerian Breweries said in a filing seen by THE WHISTLER that the decision is part of the plans for a company-wide reorganisation aimed at securing a resilient and sustainable future for its stakeholders.
The company said it informed the leadership of the National Union of Food, Beverage & Tobacco Employees (NUFBTE) and the Food Beverage and Tobacco Senior Staff Association (FOBTOB), that “its proposed plan would include operational efficiency measures and a company-wide reorganisation that includes the temporary suspension of operations in two of its nine breweries.”
The letter which was signed by the company’s Human Resources Director, Grace Omo-Lamai, invited both unions to discussions on the implications of the proposed measures.
THE WHISTLER had exclusively reported that the company’s workforce was reduced by 380 workers in 2023 as the brewer struggled with the loss.
Nigerian Breweries had revealed plans to raise capital of up to N600bn by way of a Rights Issue, as a means of restoring the company’s balance sheet to a healthy position.
Last year, net finance expenses of N189bn were recorded by the company in 2023 driven mainly by a foreign exchange loss of N153bn resulting from the devaluation of the naira.
Speaking on the decision to shutdown two factories, Managing Director/CEO Nigerian Breweries Plc, Hans Essaadi, said the decision was vital amid the persistently challenging operating environment.
He said, “The tough business landscape characterised by double digits inflation rates, naira devaluation, FX challenges and diminished consumer spend has taken its toll on many businesses, including ours.
“This is why we have taken the decision to further consolidate our business operations for efficient cost management. It will also improve our operational and financial stability and help return our business back to profitability, as we work together to secure the business for today and for future sustainable growth.
“We recognize and regret the impact that the suspension of brewery operations in the two affected locations may have on our employees. We are committed to limiting the impact on people as far as possible and providing strong support and severance packages to all affected.”
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has mandated the Federal Ministry of Education to develop guidelines for including graduates of the National Open University (NOUN) in the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) scheme.
This directive was given during the university’s 13th convocation ceremony, held at the University’s Convocation Arena in Jabi, Abuja.
Represented by Biodun Saliu, Deputy Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission (NUC), the President expressed his administration’s commitment to addressing educational inclusivity.
“With the changing demographics of our great nation, the government has recognized the importance of allowing NOUN graduates to participate in the NYSC scheme,” President Tinubu stated, emphasizing the need to harness the potential of young Nigerians from all educational backgrounds.
Opening Doors for NOUN Law Graduates
In a related development, President Tinubu also announced the resolution of the long-standing issue concerning the admittance of NOUN law graduates to the country’s law schools. “The doors of the Law School are now open to the graduates, ensuring equal opportunities for all,” he declared.
This move is expected to remove any remaining barriers faced by NOUN graduates in legal education, further cementing the government’s stance on educational equality.
The Role of Open and Distance Learning
The convocation celebrated the graduates’ academic achievements and highlighted the vital role that Open and Distance Learning (ODL) plays in shaping Nigeria’s educational landscape. The President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to enhancing ODL to broaden access to higher education across the nation, essential for meeting the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
“We will continue to improve quality, access, and affordability in education through robust support for ODL,” Tinubu added, noting the pivotal role of the Federal Ministry of Education and the NUC in providing an enabling environment for effective delivery of distance education in Nigeria.
NOUN’s Evolution and Its Impacts
The President praised the evolution of NOUN from an educational platform initially envisioned for the working class to one that now caters to the broader needs of Nigeria’s youthful population. He acknowledged the challenges many school leavers face in gaining admission to traditional universities and emphasized the need for enhanced research in technology at NOUN to accommodate more young school leavers and improve social safety nets for the people.
Advancing Government Commitment Through ICT
Furthermore, President Tinubu revealed that within the next six months, NOUN would begin providing access to government officials for enrollment in various ICT programs, particularly postgraduate courses at the African Centre of Excellence on Technology Enhanced Learning (ACETEL).
This initiative is part of a broader government effort to incorporate Artificial Intelligence (AI) across all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to enhance decision-making and operational efficiency.
He urged NOUN to admit qualified government functionaries into its postgraduate programs offered by ACETEL. The President also tasked the World Bank-sponsored centre, hosted by NOUN, to focus on research that will improve the use of ICT tools for enhanced learning outcomes in Nigeria.
Two Nigerian Army officials have been arrested for stealing armoured cables from the Dangote Refinery, as announced by the Nigerian Army on Wednesday.
Naija News reports that the incident, deemed “totally unacceptable and highly regrettable” by the Army’s top brass, has raised concerns over discipline within the ranks.
The soldiers were apprehended on Sunday at the main gate of the Dangote facility, in possession of 897 precut armoured cables, while attempting to exit in an Acura jeep.
The spokesperson of the Nigerian Army, Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, expressed deep concern regarding the breach of ethics and values represented by this incident.
According to Maj. Gen. Nwachukwu’s statement the arrest was facilitated by “the proactive intervention of vigilant troops and private security operatives on duty at the refinery.”
Nwachukwu emphasized that the actions of the two soldiers do not reflect the standards and principles upheld by the Nigerian Army.
Further details revealed by Nwachukwu suggest a contractor known only as ‘Mr. Smart’ hired the soldiers to retrieve cables left behind at the refinery.
However, as they neared a security checkpoint, Smart reportedly exited the vehicle and fled the scene, leaving the soldiers to face the consequences alone.
Nwachukwu further disclosed that investigation was ongoing to determine the full extent of the involvement of the detained soldiers in the theft.
The Nigerian Army reassured the public that it would impose appropriate disciplinary measures on the culprits, underscoring that it does not condone any acts of criminality among its personnel.
AS the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP holds its National Executive Committee, NEC meeting today, former Federal Commissioner for Information and South South Leader, Chief Edwin Clark has called for the setting up of a Disciplinary Committee that will be saddled with the responsibility of probing the anti-party activities of former Governor of Rivers State and others whose roles led to the failure of the PDP in the 2023 elections.
Clark described Wike who is presently the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Administration, FCTA as the greatest enemy of the PDP, manipulating it, with an intent of destroying it.
He added that his anti party activities must be dealt with decisively, by setting up a strong disciplinary committee made up a strong people with resilience to resist pecuniary gains.
In a statement on Wednesday in Abuja, the Elderstatesman has also called for the immediate dissolution of the present National Working Committee, NWC of the PDP for what he described as their anti-party activities.
Clark’s statement is titled, ” As the National Working Committee, (NEC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) meets: A Poser- PDP: To be or not to be?”
The Leader of Pan Niger Delta Forum, PANDEF said that after the dissolution of the NWC, an Acting National Chairman should be appointed in accordance with the Constitution of the party, adding that there was a precedence during the tenure of Prince Uche Secondus, who was still in court, when the party appointed another Acting National Chairman.
According to the Leader of Southern and Middle Belt Leaders Forum, SMBLF, the party should immediately revisit the on-line registration of its members as it was initiated by the then National Chairman, Dr. Okwesilieze Nwodo, to save the party from depending on individuals, just as he said that some overzealous members of the party have hijacked it for their selfish gains.
Clark has warned the party that if the former Vice President and the 2023 Presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar is made the candidate for 2027 elections, PDP will collapse as the second principal party in the country today.
Clark said, ” I know that many people who read this article will say to themselves that they thought Chief Edwin Clark said he has retired from active and partisan politics. Yes, I said I have resigned from partisan and active politics. But it was one of the famous philosophers Aristotle, who said “Man is by nature a political animal.” He went on to narrate that because no human can flourish on their own, there is a natural tendency of man to partner with their fellow men.
“And one of these partnerships is that relating to polis, which is the Greek word for community; from where is derived political partnership. Therefore, for as long as Almighty God keeps me alive, both physically and mentally, I will continue to speak on governance and political matters, especially when it is tending to adversely affect our nation.
“The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) was set up by leaders of like mind who assembled in the nation’s capital, Abuja, on 28th July, 1998, to work together “for the speedy restoration of democracy, achievement of national reconciliation”, amongst others. Some of us joined immediately the idea of such an egalitarian political party was enunciated, because we felt that was what our dear country needed and still needs.
“But what has happened today? Some overzealous members of the party have hijacked it for their selfish gains. Some of us have been shouting and warning against this. I recall that in order to avoid “money bags” taking over the party, instead of the National Working Committee (NWC) of the party, as provided by its Constitution, a one-time National Chairman of the party, Dr. Okwesilieze Nwodo, former Governor of Enugu State, during his tenure, proposed in accordance with the party’s provisions, payment of membership dues by all members with which the party will be run. He denounced the issue of deep pockets taking over the party when in his acceptance speech in 2010 stated “Needless to say, we need money to prosecute our elections but I can assure you that Ghana-Must-Go bags will not be needed at the National Secretariat of PDP in order to win primary elections. There will be no room for cash-and-carry democracy in the PDP because it is the bane of true democracy.
” My sincere advice to the members of the party’s NWC which is composed of notable politicians, is that they should be courageous enough to: Set up a Disciplinary Committee to investigate the anti-party activities, particularly the roles played by some members which led to the failure of the PDP in the 2023 elections;
“To dissolve the existing NEC of the party for their anti-party activities;
“To appoint an Acting National Chairman in accordance with the Constitution of the party. This was what happened during the tenure of Uche Secondus, who was still in court, when the party appointed another Acting National Chairman;
“The party should immediately revisit the on-line registration of its members as it was initiated by the then National Chairman, Dr. Okwesilieze Nwodo, to save the party from depending on individuals, because as they say, he who pays the piper, dictates the tune.”
Earlier, the Elderstatesman said, “Rumours have it that Atiku is already preparing for the 2027 presidential election. If this is allowed, PDP will collapse as the second principal party in the country today. While no one is contesting his right of contesting or indicating interest for the presidency of the country as many times as he wishes, which as the last count is up to five times, he should also know that fair play is the bedrock of the game.
“Another person that also seems to be holding or going for the jugular of the PDP, is Barr. Nyesom Wike. Honestly, I lack words to describe his actions. The nearest description I can give for his actions is political androgynous, he is neither in PDP or APC. He seems simply acquisitive, and the greatest enemy of PDP, manipulating it, with an intent of destroying it.
“Most of us supported Barr. Wike in his agitation against Alhaji Atiku Abubakar. But he has gone too far in causing tragedy in PDP. His anti party activities must be dealt with decisively, by setting up a strong disciplinary committee made up a strong people with resilience to resist pecuniary gains, who are courageous to investigate his activities, and that of any other person/persons suspected to engage in anti-party activities. The seeming contest for the soul of the PDP between himself and Alhaji Atiku Abubakar is not only ridiculous but a negation of the ideals for founding the party.
“Even though Nyesom Wike, had a good case considering what transpired during the last presidential primary election of the PDP, he has crossed the red line. Today, he is dancing naked in the market. He regards himself as the leader of both the PDP and APC in Rivers State, and that is why I described him as someone who can be referred as a political androgynous; an acquisitive person. Wike used his influence on APC National Chairman, Alhaji Umar Ganduje, to set up a caretaker committee of the party in Rivers State under the leadership of Mr. Tony Okocha, a position he, Mr. Okocha, sees as an opportunity to deride, harass and attempt to humiliate an elected Executive Governor of the State, Siminalayi Fubara.
“The story is the same in PDP in the State; where Barr. Wike recently removed the State Chairman, and recommended him for a federal appointment. Now, with his control of PDP and APC in Rivers State, he has appointed some APC members as caretaker committee members of the party in Rivers State.
“Is Nyesom Wike only waiting for the appropriate time to destroy the PDP and become a full fledge member of the APC? It is alleged that it is the same Barr. Wike who sponsored the 27 members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, to defect from the PDP to the APC, using the National Secretary of the Party, who was in court as the reason and that PDP has split.
“Even though these members in accordance with constitutional provisions have lost their seats in the House as a result of their defection to another party when there was no crisis in the party on which platform they were elected, Wike is retaining them with the support of Mr President, to the extent of threatening to impeach the Executive Governor, Siminalaye Fubara.
” I will, at this juncture, like to repeat the question I asked in the book I am writing on PDP, ‘Whither PDP: to be or not to be?’. The inordinate ambition of Their Excellencies Alhaji Atiku Abubakar and Barr, Nyesom Wike, to be president of the country, will kill the party. These two seem to prefer to use their personal funds to establish their leadership, not because of their love for the party. PDP wake up! This is a clarion call.
“It is true that for some time the party had no funds, particularly the time between Ahmed Makarfi and Ali Modu Sheriff. Nyesom Wike was the only Governor who financially supported the party. Again, in his usual manner, he insulted and humiliated the party. He dared them not to hold the party convention in Port Harcourt. The party kowtowed to him. Even after that, he continued to harass and intimidate the party. For instance, he sponsored Uche Secondus to be the national chairman of the party against the wishes of most other members. The same Barr. Wike later on instigated and sponsored the removal of Uche Secondus, two months before the party’s National Convention.
“Barr. Wike’s engagement in brash politics seems to be affecting members of the party including the party’s Acting National Chairman, Amb. Umar Iliya Damagum and the National Secretary, who take instructions from Barr. Wike. Hence, the sixty members on the platform of the party in the House of Representatives, are calling for the resignation and or removal of the Acting National Chairman.”
…assures of safety of lives, property, peaceful conduct of primaries
Police detectives in Ondo state, have arrested two members of the All Progressive Congress, for printing fake membership cards ahead of the Saturday’s governorship primary election.
A statement by the state police commands spokesperson, Funmi Odunlami, in Akure, gave the name of one of the suspect as Ariyo Ajiroba.
The statement read that “On Wednesday, 17th April, 2024, the Police received an intel that one Mr Ariyo, a transporter in Ondo town was registering APC Party members at his residence ahead of the party primaries slated for 20th of April, 2024.
“Police personnel from Yaba Divisional Headquarters led by an Assistant Superintendent of Police visited the house and recovered the following items from the scene, APC party’s registration booklets, list of names of purported party members of ward 7 Ondo, 53 passport photographs of different individuals, jotter containing with names, two exercise books with names and phone numbers of people and two slips of a registered form.
“Two suspects have been arrested and are assisting the Police with necessary information to apprehend others involved in this cynicism.
“The Commissioner of police, Abayomi Oladipo, admonishes all political aspirants to caution their supporters whose acts can stir the hornet’s nest in the state.
Odunlami added that “The CP also ordered total clamp down on incendiaries no matter whose ox is gored, as the Command has spread its tentacles to all nooks and crannies of the State to ensure safety of lives and property and peaceful conduct of the party primaries in the State.”
Recall that that seven of the governorship aspirants have raised the alarm over the printing of fake membership cards.
APC primaries: All eyes on Tinubu's anointed candidate in Ondo as contesters slug it out
The governorship aspirants include Olusola Oke, Wale Akinterinwa, Diran Iyantan, Dayo Faduyile, Gbenga Edema, Jimi Odimayo and Senator Jimoh Ibrahim.
They warned that “the development might hamper the outcome of the shadow election on April 20.”
In a petition letter addressed to the national chairman of the party, Umar Ganduje, the aspirants said “despite paying N300 million into the coffers of the party to cover the annual dues of all party members, the exercise was not transparent to our satisfaction, as most of the genuine party members could not revalidate their membership cards.
Their letter reads, “We, the undersigned, are aspirants from the South senatorial district of Ondo State who have collected forms to participate in the forthcoming Ondo State gubernatorial primary election slated for April 20, 2024.
“We have noticed some issues of concern in respect of the said primary election, which, if not resolved quickly, may hinder the smooth running of the primary and may be detrimental to a free, fair, credible, and acceptable election.
“One of the issues is the revalidation of the membership register to be used for the primary election.
“While we commend the position of the party to revalidate the existing membership register, which is the certified true copies, as certified by INEC, and based on this directive of the party, as aspirants, we have paid over N300 million to the coffers of the party to cover the annual dues of all party members whose names appear on the register.
“Unfortunately, the exercise was shrouded in so much secrecy that a lot of our party members, especially our numerous supporters, could not have their membership cards revalidated before the committee that came from the headquarters left Ondo State for Abuja.
“We have been inundated by reports that a particular aspirant has gone ahead with massive printing of fake party slips, which he has distributed to a lot of people who are not even our party members.
“The intention of this aspirant is to corrupt the integrity of the membership register on the day of the primary by making the accreditation of party members impossible as non-party members have already been recruited to flood the venues of the primary election that day.
“This massive and pervasive production of the membership cards will certainly precipitate a situation where everyone holding membership cards, notwithstanding that their names are not on the register, will be allowed to vote without accreditation. Voting without accreditation remains illegal and unacceptable.
“Mr. Chairman should note that Section 77(2)(3) of the Electoral Act, 2022, makes it mandatory for all political parties to have a credible membership register, which must be submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, and certified by it, not later than 30 days before the Congress.
“To avoid any legal or constitutional conundrum, we advise that the party make accreditation of party members mandatory at the election venue and that every member of the party whose name appears on the membership register already certified by INEC should be allowed to vote once he or she is able to present his or her membership slip for accreditation.
“It is therefore our prayer that the leadership of the party make available to us the membership register already validly certified by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, as the only lawful register to be used by the party for the conduct of the primary election slated for April 20, 2024. No other register can lawfully be used for the said election.”
Media
Happening Now: Ondo APC Chieftain, Ariyo Ajiroba, was caught producing fake APC Membership Cards ahead of Saturday's APC governorship Primary. He has been arrested by @OndoPoliceNg. pic.twitter.com/9tmdtKeMXX
— Olúyẹmí Fásípè AICMC (@YemieFash) April 17, 2024
Popular businessman and socialite, Emeka Okonkwo, aka E-Money, has pledged to take care of the children of late Nollywood actor, Junior Pope.
Recall that Junior Pope and three others lost their lives after their boat capsized on the Anam River in Anambra State while returning from a movie location.
Mourning the late actor, E-Money revealed that Junior Pope’s last words were about his commitment to train his three sons.
He promised to fulfil the late actor’s wish by taking over the responsibility for his kids.
On his Instagram page, E-money wrote: “It has been one week since you departed from this world, leaving behind a profound sense of loss that reverberates not only among us but also across Africa and beyond.
“Your presence, as both a friend and a brother, is deeply missed, JP. The weight of your absence bears heavily upon our hearts, yet we draw comfort from the belief that God will grant us the resilience to carry forward and uphold the legacy you’ve entrusted to us.
“We tenderly remember your final words on the boat, ‘Na only me dem born, I get 3 children na me go raise them,’ and we solemnly commit to honoring that vow.
“Your children now find solace in the embrace of the Okonkwo family, and we, as members of that family, pledge to nurture them as you would have wished. Your absence leaves a palpable void, JP, and your memory will forever be held dear. Rest peacefully, knowing that you are deeply cherished, and may God’s blessings encompass your soul, your family, and all who hold you in their hearts.”
The Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Mr. Olayemi Cardoso, said yesterday that the apex bank is not defending the Naira with the nation’s foreign reserves.
He was speaking against the backdrop of the recent decline in Nigeria’s foreign reserves corresponding with massive appreciation of the Naira in the foreign exchange market (forex), fueling speculations that the apex bank pumped forex into the market to dwarf demand pressure and shore up the value of the local currency.
Speaking at the on-going Spring Meetings of the IMF the World Bank, Cardoso said that his team at the apex bank is determined to nurse a foreign exchange market ruled by the principle of willing buyers-willing seller.
He also said that Ways and Means (federal government borrowings from CBN) is no longer an issue, particularly after the fiscal authorities securitised the outstanding.
His words, “Defending the Naira, from every indication is an elephant in some rooms. I will make this as clear as possible. It is not our intention to defend the Naira. Much as I have read in the recent few days some opinions about what has happened in terms of our reserves being drawn down, the CBN Defending the Naira, if you take your mind to our philosophy and policy, you will see it will be counter intuitive. We want the Naira to perform independently as long as we have a vibrant forex market.
“Initially we needed to keep the BDCs going. So it is important for people to get forex for school fees, travels and the like.
Why reserves shifted
“The shift you see in our reserve is not to defend the Naira but for things like settling obligations that fell due. Mind you, that is the reason for keeping foreign reserves, in the first place.”
Cardoso also said that his team is cooperating with the fiscal authorities and that, “Ways and Means is no longer an issue.
He said, “Let me be upfront in saying that the monetary policy is only one side. It is very clear to us that we need to have a very good handshake with the fiscal authorities.
“For instance, food inflation is not within the purview of the CBN. Ways and Means is now less an issue.”
The CBN boss said he decided to go the orthodox central banking route in order to build confidence in the Nigerian currency.
He also said that he had no choice than to raise monetary policy rate, recording 600 basis points hike within a short period of time.
He promised to communicate more with Nigerians and other stakeholders in order to moderate their expectations.
“We want Nigerians to be realistic in their expectations. We have used the MPC to explain why we took the measures that we have taken.
“We will strengthen the communication framework using different platforms to communicate.”
The governor expressed satisfaction that he took hard decisions but added that they are yielding desired outcomes.
He said within two months of his administration , the Naira was adjudged the worst performing currency, but within six months it moved to the best performing currency, globally.
“Ultimately the objective is to ensure that we moderate inflation’’, he stated.
Key take-away lessons for him, he said, was that he could not over-emphasise the importance of trust, stating, “Irrespective of boldness to do certain things if the trust is not the there, you will sub-optimise.
“It is a bit of a surprise that one had expected a greater understanding of a lot of the issues, expectations of the people on the CBN is often misplaced.”
Cameroonian professors in some Nigerian universities and other professionals working in the country, who were arrested and detained in Cameroon have filed a petition before the House of Representatives to intervene on their behalf and free them from detention.
The petitioners, ten in number, are registered refugees in Nigeria, who also called on the Federal Government under President Bola Tinubu, to deploy other means to secure their release from detention by the Cameroonian authorities.
Their petition was presented to the House Committee on Public Petitions by a legal firm, FRULAW CHAMBERS.
The professors and professionals were arrested at Nera Hotel in Abuja on January 5, 2018, by security agents and later repatriated to Cameroon, tried by a military tribunal and sentenced to life imprisonment at the Kondengui Maximum security detention facility.
In their petition, the asylum seekers in Nigeria pleaded with House to, among others, cause the government of Nigeria to institute an urgent action to secure the implementation of communication 59/2022 of October 14, 2022, of the UN-HRC-WGAD calling for their release.
Addressing journalists on the petition, a lawyer at FRULAW CHAMBERS and a former member of the House of Representatives, Abdul Shaibu Oroh, reiterated the call on President Tinubu-led federal government to employ diplomatic and political measures to ensure the release of detainees.
He said: “What we are asking the parliament to do, we realise that these people were not detained under the administration of Bola Tinubu who is a human rights person.
”He was a former exile, a former refugee in another country who was running away from tyranny. He fought tyranny and defeated tyranny.
“Now, there is hope renewed, so we want that hope that is renewed to engage our neighbours, to touch the lives of our neighbours, especially these my clients. We want him to intervene with the Cameronian authorities to release them.
”Even the UN Special Commission on Arbitrary Arrests made this appeal to the Buhari administration but you people know that the Buhari administration didn’t respect human rights, they didn’t listen to anybody.
“So we are appealing to him, we are appealing to our parliament elected by our people, by sovereign will of the Nigerian people to intervene with the Cameroonian authorities to release these people.
”May be they can go into a conversation to negotiate peace because these people are interested in peace so that their refugees can return home, so that their people can have peace.
“You know, you cannot negotiate with somebody who is not free. These people, one of them, former deputy registrar of Ahmadu Bello University, ABU, Zaria, was 65 years old and according to the law of Cameroon, you cannot sentence a man who is 65 years old to life imprisonment.”
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In apparent response to the rising economic hardship in the country, the number of disengaged workers that withdrew money from their pension savings for sustenance increased by 33.9 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2023, Q4’23.
According to the Q4’23 report released by the National Pension Commission, PenCom, 10,299 Retirement Savings Account, RSA, holders that lost their jobs, withdrew from their pension savings in Q4’23, up 33.9 percent from 7,688 of such withdrawals the previous quarter, in Q3’23.
In Q4’23, the 10,299 RSA holders withdrew N6.5 billion from their pension savings against 7,688 RSA holders that withdrew N8.6 billion in Q3’23.
The Pension Reform Act permits disengaged workers to withdraw 25 per cent of their pension savings four months after losing their jobs.
The report stated: “In Q4’23, a total of 10,307 RSA holders requested to access 25% of their RSA balances due to temporary loss of employment. Out of that, 10,299 RSA holders’ requests were approved, while eight were rejected because their ages were above 50 years.
“Out of the 10,299 applicants whose benefits were approved, 9,819 were from the private sector, while the remaining 480 were from the public sector. The sum of N6,504.96 million was approved for the 10,299 RSA holders under the age of 50 years.”
The report further states that: “In Q3’23, a total of 7,697 RSA holders requested to access 25% of their RSA balances due to temporary loss of employment. Out of this figure, 7,688 RSA holders’ requests were approved, while nine were rejected because their ages were above 50 years. From the 7,688 applicants whose benefits were approved, 7,242 worked in the private sector, while the remaining 446 worked in the public sector. The sum of N8,628.27 million was approved for the 7,688 RSA holders under the age of 50 years.”
Meanwhile, on contributions for residential mortgage, the report stated: “A total of 1,128 RSA holders requested to access up to 25% of their RSA balances towards payment of equity contributions for residential mortgage during the quarter under review. Approvals were granted to 991 requests amounting to N9,618.74 million, while 137 were rejected due to incorrect documentations. Out of the 991 applicants whose benefits were approved, 304 were from the private sector, while the remaining 687 were from the public sector.”
AS the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP holds its National Executive Committee, NEC meeting today, former Federal Commissioner for Information and South South Leader, Chief Edwin Clark has called for the setting up of a Disciplinary Committee that will be saddled with the responsibility of probing the anti-party activities of former Governor of Rivers State and others whose roles led to the failure of the PDP in the 2023 elections.
Clark described Wike who is presently the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Administration, FCTA as the greatest enemy of the PDP, manipulating it, with an intent of destroying it.
He added that his anti party activities must be dealt with decisively, by setting up a strong disciplinary committee made up a strong people with resilience to resist pecuniary gains.
In a statement on Wednesday in Abuja, the Elderstatesman has also called for the immediate dissolution of the present National Working Committee, NWC of the PDP for what he described as their anti-party activities.
Clark’s statement is titled, ” As the National Working Committee, (NEC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) meets: A Poser- PDP: To be or not to be?”
The Leader of Pan Niger Delta Forum, PANDEF said that after the dissolution of the NWC, an Acting National Chairman should be appointed in accordance with the Constitution of the party, adding that there was a precedence during the tenure of Prince Uche Secondus, who was still in court, when the party appointed another Acting National Chairman.
According to the Leader of Southern and Middle Belt Leaders Forum, SMBLF, the party should immediately revisit the on-line registration of its members as it was initiated by the then National Chairman, Dr. Okwesilieze Nwodo, to save the party from depending on individuals, just as he said that some overzealous members of the party have hijacked it for their selfish gains.
Clark has warned the party that if the former Vice President and the 2023 Presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar is made the candidate for 2027 elections, PDP will collapse as the second principal party in the country today.
Clark said, ” I know that many people who read this article will say to themselves that they thought Chief Edwin Clark said he has retired from active and partisan politics. Yes, I said I have resigned from partisan and active politics. But it was one of the famous philosophers Aristotle, who said “Man is by nature a political animal.” He went on to narrate that because no human can flourish on their own, there is a natural tendency of man to partner with their fellow men.
“And one of these partnerships is that relating to polis, which is the Greek word for community; from where is derived political partnership. Therefore, for as long as Almighty God keeps me alive, both physically and mentally, I will continue to speak on governance and political matters, especially when it is tending to adversely affect our nation.
“The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) was set up by leaders of like mind who assembled in the nation’s capital, Abuja, on 28th July, 1998, to work together “for the speedy restoration of democracy, achievement of national reconciliation”, amongst others. Some of us joined immediately the idea of such an egalitarian political party was enunciated, because we felt that was what our dear country needed and still needs.
“But what has happened today? Some overzealous members of the party have hijacked it for their selfish gains. Some of us have been shouting and warning against this. I recall that in order to avoid “money bags” taking over the party, instead of the National Working Committee (NWC) of the party, as provided by its Constitution, a one-time National Chairman of the party, Dr. Okwesilieze Nwodo, former Governor of Enugu State, during his tenure, proposed in accordance with the party’s provisions, payment of membership dues by all members with which the party will be run. He denounced the issue of deep pockets taking over the party when in his acceptance speech in 2010 stated “Needless to say, we need money to prosecute our elections but I can assure you that Ghana-Must-Go bags will not be needed at the National Secretariat of PDP in order to win primary elections. There will be no room for cash-and-carry democracy in the PDP because it is the bane of true democracy.
” My sincere advice to the members of the party’s NWC which is composed of notable politicians, is that they should be courageous enough to: Set up a Disciplinary Committee to investigate the anti-party activities, particularly the roles played by some members which led to the failure of the PDP in the 2023 elections;
“To dissolve the existing NEC of the party for their anti-party activities;
“To appoint an Acting National Chairman in accordance with the Constitution of the party. This was what happened during the tenure of Uche Secondus, who was still in court, when the party appointed another Acting National Chairman;
“The party should immediately revisit the on-line registration of its members as it was initiated by the then National Chairman, Dr. Okwesilieze Nwodo, to save the party from depending on individuals, because as they say, he who pays the piper, dictates the tune.”
Earlier, the Elderstatesman said, “Rumours have it that Atiku is already preparing for the 2027 presidential election. If this is allowed, PDP will collapse as the second principal party in the country today. While no one is contesting his right of contesting or indicating interest for the presidency of the country as many times as he wishes, which as the last count is up to five times, he should also know that fair play is the bedrock of the game.
“Another person that also seems to be holding or going for the jugular of the PDP, is Barr. Nyesom Wike. Honestly, I lack words to describe his actions. The nearest description I can give for his actions is political androgynous, he is neither in PDP or APC. He seems simply acquisitive, and the greatest enemy of PDP, manipulating it, with an intent of destroying it.
“Most of us supported Barr. Wike in his agitation against Alhaji Atiku Abubakar. But he has gone too far in causing tragedy in PDP. His anti party activities must be dealt with decisively, by setting up a strong disciplinary committee made up a strong people with resilience to resist pecuniary gains, who are courageous to investigate his activities, and that of any other person/persons suspected to engage in anti-party activities. The seeming contest for the soul of the PDP between himself and Alhaji Atiku Abubakar is not only ridiculous but a negation of the ideals for founding the party.
“Even though Nyesom Wike, had a good case considering what transpired during the last presidential primary election of the PDP, he has crossed the red line. Today, he is dancing naked in the market. He regards himself as the leader of both the PDP and APC in Rivers State, and that is why I described him as someone who can be referred as a political androgynous; an acquisitive person. Wike used his influence on APC National Chairman, Alhaji Umar Ganduje, to set up a caretaker committee of the party in Rivers State under the leadership of Mr. Tony Okocha, a position he, Mr. Okocha, sees as an opportunity to deride, harass and attempt to humiliate an elected Executive Governor of the State, Siminalayi Fubara.
“The story is the same in PDP in the State; where Barr. Wike recently removed the State Chairman, and recommended him for a federal appointment. Now, with his control of PDP and APC in Rivers State, he has appointed some APC members as caretaker committee members of the party in Rivers State.
“Is Nyesom Wike only waiting for the appropriate time to destroy the PDP and become a full fledge member of the APC? It is alleged that it is the same Barr. Wike who sponsored the 27 members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, to defect from the PDP to the APC, using the National Secretary of the Party, who was in court as the reason and that PDP has split.
“Even though these members in accordance with constitutional provisions have lost their seats in the House as a result of their defection to another party when there was no crisis in the party on which platform they were elected, Wike is retaining them with the support of Mr President, to the extent of threatening to impeach the Executive Governor, Siminalaye Fubara.
” I will, at this juncture, like to repeat the question I asked in the book I am writing on PDP, ‘Whither PDP: to be or not to be?’. The inordinate ambition of Their Excellencies Alhaji Atiku Abubakar and Barr, Nyesom Wike, to be president of the country, will kill the party. These two seem to prefer to use their personal funds to establish their leadership, not because of their love for the party. PDP wake up! This is a clarion call.
“It is true that for some time the party had no funds, particularly the time between Ahmed Makarfi and Ali Modu Sheriff. Nyesom Wike was the only Governor who financially supported the party. Again, in his usual manner, he insulted and humiliated the party. He dared them not to hold the party convention in Port Harcourt. The party kowtowed to him. Even after that, he continued to harass and intimidate the party. For instance, he sponsored Uche Secondus to be the national chairman of the party against the wishes of most other members. The same Barr. Wike later on instigated and sponsored the removal of Uche Secondus, two months before the party’s National Convention.
“Barr. Wike’s engagement in brash politics seems to be affecting members of the party including the party’s Acting National Chairman, Amb. Umar Iliya Damagum and the National Secretary, who take instructions from Barr. Wike. Hence, the sixty members on the platform of the party in the House of Representatives, are calling for the resignation and or removal of the Acting National Chairman.”
[Vanguard]
Pascal Okechukwu, who is popularly known as Cubana Chief Priest is a Nigerian celebrity bar man, entrepreneur associated with the nightlife scene.
Known for his lavish lifestyle, exuberant personality, and ostentatious displays of wealth, Cubana Chief Priest has become a household name in Nigeria and beyond.
However, behind the glitz and glamour lies a story that raises questions about the responsible use of wealth and the consequences of unchecked extravagance of Cubana Chief Priest.
Here are 10 key insights into the persona and controversies surrounding Cubana Chief Priest:
Early life
Born Pascal Chibuike Okechukwu, Cubana Chief Priest grew up in Aba and Umuhu Okabia, Imo State, Nigeria. As a child, he dreamt of becoming a musician.
Shoemaking business
Following his father’s footsteps, Cubana Chief Priest learned the art of shoemaking in Aba. His dedication paid off, earning him his first million during his time at Federal Polytechnic Nekede in Owerri.
Family life
In the midst of his career pursuits, Cubana Chief Priest found love and married Angel Gold Okechukwu. Their union blessed them with two sons, Chukwuebuka and Obinna.
Entrepreneurial milestone
Cubana Chief Priest’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish Club Xhrine in Owerri, marking a significant milestone in his career.
Social media boom
With his vibrant personality and charm, Cubana Chief Priest became a social media sensation, amassing millions of followers on Instagram.
Arrest and controversy
In April 2022, Cubana Chief Priest was apprehended by the EFCC at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja. He faced allegations that stirred controversy and left his fans shocked.
Career and speculation
Following his arrest, Cubana Chief Priest’s social media presence dwindled, leaving fans wondering about his whereabouts and the future of his career.
Philanthropic life
Despite his flamboyant image, he is known to engage in philanthropic activities, such as supporting the less privileged and contributing to community development projects.
He has been known to donate money to charitable causes and support aspiring entrepreneurs, earning praise from some quarters for his generosity and community engagement.
Fame and limelight
He has a massive following on social media, with millions of followers on platforms like Instagram, where he shares insights into his lifestyle, businesses, and social engagements.
Alleged Naira abuse
Following Bobrisky’s arrest, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) arrested Cubana Chief Priest on Tuesday, April 16, 2024. He was arraigned on Wednesday and pleaded not guilty.
The Federal High Court in Lagos State consequently granted the businessman and socialite N10m bail with two sureties in like sum.
Keaiirra Shavoiyae Chidozie, a 28-year-old woman, faces charges after fatally shooting her Nigerian husband four times during a domestic dispute in their residence in the United States. She is scheduled to appear in court for arraignment on May 23rd.
Keaiirra shot Michael Chidozie once in the arm, once in the chest, and twice in his torso and left to die on the bedroom floor.
The incident happened in their residence in Houston, Texas on March 21, and Michael died of spinal injury complications.
According to reports, the police found the 26-year-old Micheal in gun wounds and was rushed to Ben Taub Hospital, but died after spending 18 days on life support.
A man has died less than a month after police say his wife shot him multiple times at their apartment in the Galleria area.
Investigators said the shooting was a result of an argument between the couple on March 21.
According to ABC13 Houston news, court documents show the victim’s wife is facing an aggravated assault with a deadly weapon charge.
It was, however, revealed that the Harris County Clerk’s website reveals the charge has not been upgraded.
It added that Keaiirra is out on bond and awaiting her next court date on May 23.
According to investigators, the two children belonging to the couple witnessed the altercations that led to the shooting.
The children have been delivered to a family for care pending the case of their mother.
The neighbours said they had not experienced the couple having a disagreement before, leaving them in surprise over the issue.
“I never would have thought something like that would happen,” Francis Abah, Michael’s friend, said.
“They were just like every other couple who every now and again had issues, but I was expecting they would work it out,” Abah said.
“But you never saw them be violent towards each other,” ABC13 Houston reporter Alex Bozarjian asked.
“No, not at all,” Abah answered.
Abah said he and Michael became friends in 2018, and that their kids often played together.
“We just envisioned this whole big family get together. It is very tragic. His exit was a painful one,” Abah said.
“It’s a tough pill to swallow, and something he feels didn’t need to happen had the couple sought help.”
At just 26 years old, Michael died from complications at Ben Taub Hospital on April 8, 18 days after he was shot.
The report added that Michael’s family and friends are trying to raise money to send his body back home to Nigeria