MORE TO COME. BUT IN THE MEANTIME, READ THE FULL STATEMENT BELOW.
Dear Members of the Press,
I am writing to express my strong support for the implementation of a windfall tax in Nigeria and to highlight the critical role this measure plays in fostering a fairer and more equitable economic environment.
This endorsement aligns with the ongoing efforts to reform the Nigerian banking sector, aimed at enhancing economic stability and integrity within our financial institutions. Windfall taxes are levies on companies or individuals who receive substantial, unexpected profits due to circumstances beyond their usual control or investment. Taxing these extraordinary gains ensures a fairer distribution of wealth, allowing those who benefit disproportionately to contribute more significantly to the broader societal good.
The revenue generated from windfall taxes can be channeled into essential public services such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure, benefiting all citizens and helping to reduce social inequalities. The recent announcement of a windfall tax on the extraordinary profits earned by Nigerian banks is a significant first step towards achieving these goals. The consolidation of various foreign exchange rate systems into a single investors and exporters (I&E) window led to the depreciation of the Naira and substantial increases in the value of bank assets denominated in United States Dollars.
This extraordinary gain should be redistributed to fund critical infrastructure development, education, healthcare access, and public welfare initiatives, addressing the intense pressure on public finances and alleviating the cost-of-living crisis many Nigerians face. Furthermore, the financial statements of manufacturing, telecoms, and SMEs indicate that many of these companies may not be able to pay corporate tax for at least the next two years, as they are currently showing negative equity. It is essential for the government to step in and provide support to bridge these gaps, ensuring revenue generation and fostering economic development.
The importance of aligning financial priorities with Nigeria’s broader economic development goals cannot be overstated. The Federal Government’s reforms are both timely and essential for the sustainable growth of our economy.
By taking decisive action to implement these changes, the Federal Government is demonstrating a commitment to ethical leadership and accountability. These reforms will empower our banking sector to play a pivotal role in driving Nigeria’s economic development, ultimately securing a prosperous future for all Nigerians.
I also commend the recent recapitalization initiative in the banking sector, which sets minimum capital requirements of N500 billion for international banks and N200 billion for national banks. This move is designed to strengthen the banking sector’s capacity to support Nigeria’s broader economic development goals. It is crucial for banks to focus on operational efficiency, technological innovation, and customer service, rather than executive extravagance.
Amid the progress with banking sector reforms, there is an urgent need to address entrenched issues within the Nigerian banking sector.
A concerning trend has emerged where some bank chief executives prioritize personal gain over their duty to shareholders and customers. The core values of banking—trust, integrity, and service—must be upheld. I am particularly critical of the culture of flamboyance, especially the ownership and operation of private jets.
Nigerian banks are spending an estimated $50 million annually just on maintaining private jets, with over $500 million gone into purchasing nine private jets by four banks. This level of extravagance significantly erodes public trust in our financial institutions and diverts crucial resources away from vital areas such as operational efficiency, technological innovation, and customer service.
To regain the trust of the Nigerian public and fulfill its pivotal role in the nation’s economic development, the banking sector must realign its financial priorities. Investments should be channeled into areas that directly improve customer services and enhance technological infrastructure.
I urge all stakeholders in the Nigerian banking sector and the broader economic community to rally behind these visionary reforms. It is time for our financial institutions to embody the highest standards of integrity and service, ensuring a stronger and more resilient economy for all Nigerians.
Sincerely,
Femi Otedola
[PRESS RELEASE] Obi mourns Onyeka Onwenu, "She left us with her 'One Love, Keep us Together' song"
Admin![[PRESS RELEASE] Obi mourns Onyeka Onwenu, "She left us with her 'One Love, Keep us Together' song"](/media/k2/items/cache/ec69c5958e21fac7bf1dee9c53ad82b5_L.jpg)
The Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 general election, Peter Obi says Onyeka Onwenu's death has devastated him.
I watched as doctors battled to save her life in vain yesterday after her elegant performance on stage.
She left us with a striking song in her last performance on earth "One Love Keep Us Together
Writing on his X handle, Obi said
"Yesterday provided a totally devastating moment for me as I witnessed a tragic event that will forever be etched in my memory.
" I was present at the event where the iconic song star, Onyeka Onwenu performed a couple of her songs ending up with her famous song, 'One Love Keep Us Together'.
"It was a beautiful performance, but little did we know it would be her final bow. Just about a few minutes after her performance, she down and drank some water and immediately collapsed, and was rushed to the hospital I followed her to the hospital, I watched in pain as the doctors and medical staff fought tirelessly and battled to save her life doing everything possible to bring her back to life but eventually came out with the sad news that she was gone. Despite their valiant efforts, she sadly passed away after over two hours of intense struggle.
'My heart goes out to her children and family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time. May we find the strength and courage to bear this irreparable loss. Onyeka Onwenu was a national treasure, a shining star who inspired generations with her music, activism, and strong dedication to the arts. Her passing is a tremendous loss for the entire nation, and she will be deeply missed.
"I want to thank everyone who accompanied her to the hospital yesterday. Special thanks to Mr. Mrs John Momoh, Mr Mrs Okonkwo, and MMrOkpara, who were with her during her last moments. Governor Alex Otti joined in also and Mr. Femi Ajayi who equally returned to the hospital this morning when we had to finalize everything about her passing.
"May her soul rest in peace, and may her legacy continue to inspire and unite us all. My condolences to her family, the entertainment industry, and the nation at large. May we find solace in the memories we shared with her and the impact she had on our lives? Lives.
Signed
Yunusa Tanko
POMR SPOKESMAN
July 31, 2024
Media
The Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD) has called on security agencies to protect protesters during the planned nationwide demonstration.
In a statement on Wednesday, Dauda Garuba, director of CDD West Africa, said the federal government should respect citizens’ rights to peaceful protest.
Garuba said every democratic state must have mechanisms to accept criticism or complaints by the citizens.
He expressed concern that the government and political leaders have attempted to discourage peaceful protest by associating the movement with negative connotations.
“This think tank calls on the Nigerian government to respect citizens’ right to peaceful assembly,” the statement reads.
“By upholding citizens’ right to protest, the government can ensure a peaceful two-way exchange by listening to the voices of and feedback from citizens.
“There can be no mistaking the fact that every democratic state must have the mechanisms to take criticism or complaints from its citizens.
“It is why avenues, such as peaceful protests, are important to ensure that the government is made aware of the considerable concerns that citizens have about the country.”
He said protest is a “legitimate and democratic” right of citizens, adding that “it is one of the vital mechanisms for expressing dissent, voicing concerns, and advocating for change”.
“In an ideal democratic setting, the voices of the people should be heard, and their grievances must be subsequently addressed,” he said.
“It is disheartening to see many leaders seeking to further shrink the civic space by calling on young Nigerians not to make their voices heard.
“This approach of demonising protests undermines the constitutionally guaranteed right to peaceful assembly and could lead to increased civic disengagement and increasing citizen apathy.
“It is the absence of a strong two-way exchange, between leaders and citizens, that leads to a breakdown in law and order.
“The Nigerian state therefore has a responsibility, as the region’s largest democracy and the current chair of the regional bloc, to set an example of robust dialogue and peaceful citizen engagement.”
The CDD director called on leaders of different activist groups leading the protest to ensure that the demonstration is carefully planned and coordinated.
He urged security agencies to prevent any form of disruption during the protest.
The Federal Government has urged Nigerians to reconsider the planned nationwide protest set for Thursday, August 1.
Naija News reports that this appeal was made on Wednesday by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, during a press conference in Abuja attended by key government officials.
Akume emphasized that protests are not the solution to the country’s challenges, which the government is actively working to address.
To achieve this goal, Akume highlighted the importance of peace and stability, as these are crucial for building trust, fostering cooperation, and achieving shared objectives.
Akume said: “Economic prosperity for the nation remains the ultimate goal of the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu because it is the engine that drives progress, lifts families from poverty, and builds strong, resilient societies.
“To achieve this goal, we must enjoy peace and stability because it is the cornerstone upon which we build trust, cooperation, and shared purpose. When peace reigns, policies yield results, businesses thrive, investments flourish, and creativity is unleashed.
“This administration at inception in May 2023 inherited an economy in need of urgent , bold and imaginative reforms. Policy measures including removal of an unsustainable fuel subsidy regime had to be taken. This, it must be admitted has resulted in unexpected adjustments that impacted all facets of the economy and our daily lives.
“The administration similarly inherited a security situation that had existed for two decades and required greater attention in terms of upgrade of security architecture, infrastructure, systems, capability and capacity of personnel. This has compelled massive infusion of scarce resources from our already dwindling revenue. The objectives have been to secure lives and property, build foreign investors’ confidence, and increase food production by returning our communities to their homes and farm lands in safe and secure environment.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu sought the mandate of Nigerians to lead the nation at this difficult time because he knew that effective leadership was required to address the challenges that had accumulated over several years. That was why he sought to renew the hope of Nigerians. Within a space of 14 months of purposeful leadership, the administration has recorded tremendous accomplishments that laid the foundation for immediate, medium and long term prosperity of Nigerians, in an inclusive manner.
“Let me avail you a few concrete cross cutting examples of achievements. This is in addition to those specific accomplishments from twenty Ministries as contained in the annex to this briefing.”
Senator Akume provided several examples of these achievements, in addition to specific accomplishments from various ministries:
(I). Labour Sector and the Masses
(a). Consequent upon the impact of the removal of subsidy, the President, working with the Governors released the sum of five billion Naira to each State to cushion the impact in an inclusive manner that prioritised the poor, vulnerable and the elderly;
(b).Mr. President approved a Wage Award of Thirty-five Thousand Naira for a period of six months to cushion the effect on workers. This award was higher than the minimum wage
(c). Mr. President has just signed into law a new National Minimum Wage Act which prescribed ₦70,000:00. This represents more than 100% increase from the last minimum wage (₦30,000) and takes retroactive effect from April
(d). Currently, as we speak, States, through their Governors, are receiving twenty trailer loads of assorted grains per state, approved by the President for distribution to citizens. This is intended to cushion the high cost of foodstuff
(e). Government has removed tariffs on imported food items to bring down the prices of food stuff
(g). Farm inputs including fertilisers, are also being made available to farmers at highly subsidised rates to boost food production and reduce cost. Mr President has also approved the release of sixty four trailer loads of fertizers to each state to boost agricultural production.
(h) The Agricultural land development Agency has also been repositioned to facilitate land preparation for farmers
(h). Recently the President established the Ministry for Livestock Development in order to address the challenges in the sector and facilitate access to affordable protein by Nigerians and boost export.
(ii). Infrastructure Development & Industries
Road and other critical infrastructure are being developed across the nation as part of long term measures to reposition the economy and ease movement on the roads and by rail.
The Bank of Industry is also being supported to fund the growth of MSMEs in the industrial sector
Recently, the Renewed Hope Infrastructure Plan was unveiled as a catalyst for economic boom.
Railways infrastructure is also being developed across the nation to facilitate affordable transportation by the citizens
(III). SOCIAL SAFETY NET PROGRAMS
Curently, over 15 million indigent, poor and highly u=vunerable families are beneficiaries of the family support cash grants by the FG
(iv) LOCAL GOVERNMENT AUTONOMY
(a). As part of the efforts of the FG to take development to the grass roots, the government approached the Supreme Court for a decision on the funding of LGAs in Nigeria. The favourable judgement has now set the LGA on the path to their financial and development autonomy.
(v). Ministry of Livestock development:
(a). For the first time in our nation, the President created a stand alone Ministry for the Youth that account for a large percentage of our population
(vi) YOUTH DEVELOPMENT
(a). Under the ₦35 Billion Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) approved beneficiaries have exceeded the 40 thousand mark, of the expected 70 thousand beneficiaries.
In light of these achievements, Akume urged Nigerians to recognize that the country is a work in progress, and relief from economic hardships is forthcoming. He called on all citizens, regardless of background, to reject calls for protests against hunger and prioritize peace and progress.
“It is in the light of these aforementioned situation and accomplishments that we wish to inform you that Nigeria is work in progress and in due course, we shall breath a sigh of relief. The on-going economic hardships would abate very soon and we shall all enjoy endless prosperity.
“We therefore appeal to Nigerians of whatever persuation, belief, demography, gender and status to shun calls for protest against hunger by prioritising peace and progress.
“For the avoidance of doubts, the government of President Tinubu recognises the right to peaceful protest but circumspection and vigilance should be our watch words. Government is weary of the dangers associated with protests that are vulnerable to being highjacked by bandits, insurgents and other criminals. Rather, we request that dialogue should be advanced and we remain open to such.
“Our appeal is that Nigerians should please pursue the path of peace, dialogue and collaboration in addressing the challenges that collectively confront us. Please go about your legitimate businesses and avoid actions and/or association that are capable of disturbing the peace of the country. Remain vigilant as well .
“Let me reassure you that together, we shall create a Nigeria where peace and stability are not merely aspirations but realities, where economic growth is not just a goal but a tangible outcome, and where the dreams of our people are transformed into a shared national destiny,” the SGF pleaded
A former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Babachir Lawal, has alleged that the Federal Government is employing every weapon at its disposal, including cash, threats of arrests, fear-mongering, and intimidation to stop the August protest.
Naija News reports that Lawal made this known in a statement issued on Wednesday in Abuja, criticising the Nigerian military and police for their stance on the looming nationwide protests by aggrieved Nigerians.
The former SGF slammed the military high command and Police for issuing threats to Nigerians in an attempt to discourage them from participating in the upcoming protests.
According to Lawal, the security agents are the most affected by pervasive government corruption, especially the loss of lives due to poorly equipped fighting forces.
The statement “Egged on by the political class and probably to pander to the huge ego of their Commander-in-Chief, the military high command has been issuing threats to Nigerians to discourage them from participating in the proposed hunger protests.
“The military has blatantly ignored the fact that internal security is wholly the constitutional responsibility of the Nigerian Police Force.
“Meanwhile, bandits, kidnappers, insurgents, and the so-called ‘unknown gunmen’ are controlling large swaths of Nigerian territory with thousands of citizens held in captivity with no near-hope of redemption.
“The military appears unable or unwilling to effectively tackle these challenges but instead is intending to dabble into domains for which they are ill-equipped.
“Furthermore, the military high command pretends to be oblivious to the fact that their rank and file also frequent the same markets as the hapless civilians. They are also victims of the pervasive low purchasing power, extreme poverty, high cost of living, and the all-encompassing insecurity that has enveloped the nation.
“Indeed, one could argue that they are most affected, seeing as they are the ones losing more lives due to poorly equipped fighting forces, a result of pervasive government corruption.
“Indeed, it is common knowledge that bandits and insurgents are sometimes better equipped than the fighting troops. So, the argument could be made that the military stands to benefit more if the government were to act responsibly and accountably.
“And since, by virtue of their calling, they cannot organize or participate in protests, who else could come to their rescue but the protesting civilians?
“The police high command has also been issuing murderous threats to the would-be protesters. This is particularly sad because the Police Force knows that its duty should be to protect the protesters and ensure the protests proceed smoothly, devoid of violence and anarchy.
“However, given that the Police Act has just been speedily amended, with the primary motive appearing to be the extension of the tenure of the current Inspector General, it is not unreasonable to assume that the police high command intends to show its gratitude to the President through an overzealous suppression of the planned protests.
“Messrs Chief of Defence Staff, Chief of Army Staff, Inspector General of Police, Director General, State Security Service, and National Security Adviser, please calm down!
“The protesters are your relations, friends, and fellow countrymen and women who are severely overwhelmed by lack and want. Some of them are dying from hunger, malnutrition, and diseases.
“They are despondent because they see no hope on the horizon and receive no empathy from the government whose interests you are overzealously defending.
“The people’s backs are against the wall, and they see no alternative ways of communicating their discontent to an apparently deaf and dumb government.
“The government itself is in full panic mode, employing every weapon at its disposal, including cash, threats of arrests, fear-mongering, and intimidation.
“The Presidency has deployed its most virulent propagandists and attack dogs against its citizens in full force.
“Their preferred methodologies are threats and fear-mongering. The system is awash with cash to fund the activities of anonymous emergency and unregistered NGOs that threaten would-be protesters with violence and counter-protests.
“But their methods are not working. On the contrary, these methods have exposed the underbelly of the government and emboldened the organizers of the protests.”
On the 19th day of July, 2024, the enforcement department of the FCT High Court enforced an Order made by the Court regarding a debt of $2.5 million owed by Arik Airline to one Atlas Petroleum International Ltd. by attaching their aircrafts. Arik was further given a notice of Public Auction of the planes by the Court which was slated to hold on the 26th day of July 2024 if they fail to pay the Judgment debt. All these were served on our agency and also on our Supervising Minister, the Minister of Aviation.
The records show that on the 8th day of March, 2016, the Judgment Debtor (ARIK) appealed the decision of the High Court of Lagos State entering judgment against it to the Court of Appeal and on 30th September, 2021, the appeal was dismissed by the Court of Appeal in a unanimous decision with cost.
ARIK again appealed to the Supreme Court for leave to appeal the decision of the Court of Appeal, and on the 9th day of January, 2024, the Supreme Court, per Okoro, J.S.C., delivered its Ruling dismissing the Judgment Debtor’s application for leave to appeal.
The Judgment Creditor registered the Judgment of the Lagos State High Court in The High Court of FCT and On the 26th day of June, 2024, Honorable Justice O. A. Adeniyi, then sitting in Court 8, Maitama, Abuja) made an order after hearing Motion No: M/9785/2024 filed on behalf of Atlas Petroleum attaching all the moveable properties belonging to the Judgment Debtor, including the Judgment Debtor’s aircraft with Registration No: B737-700/ 5N-MJF, B737-800/ 5N-MJQ, DASH8-Q400 and 5N-BKX in satisfaction of the judgment debt. Copies of the Order and Certificate of Judgment were also served on us and the Minister.
We understand too that Arik has obtained an exparte order stopping FURTHER EXECUTION of the order, though we have not been formally served. In the circumstances, since the first execution took place by attaching the aircrafts, further execution by way of sale can be halted whilst the parties go back to court to resolve the issues. However, in order to preserve the subject matter of the present dispute which are the aircrafts in question (the res), which have already been attached, we have decided to comply with the effect of the Supreme Court order, by grounding the aircrafts (subject of dispute) so that they are not taken out of the jurisdiction of the court or tampered with in a way as to frustrate the courts.
Furthermore, the Minister, being a member of the Inner Bar himself understands the implication of the Supreme Court Order dismissing the motion for leave to appeal and will not risk his license as a legal practitioner or his privilege as a Senior Advocate of Nigeria by engaging in acts that will frustrate an order of the Supreme Court of Nigeria.
The parties to the dispute are encouraged to resolve their issues as quickly as possible so that the Arik aircrafts in question can resume flight operations.
Alhaji Abdullahi Musa
Director, Public Affairs and Consumer Protection,
Nigerian Airspace Management Agency
Nigerian airlines are prioritising flights to airports with more passenger traffic as the shortage of aircraft persists.
The aircraft shortage is fuelled by high maintenance costs of airplanes and the grounding of some aircraft by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) due to lack of or poor maintenance.
As a result of the situation, airlines have reduced flights to destinations with lower passenger traffic, as they maximise the available fleet to feed destinations with higher demand so as to get higher returns.
Small airports such as Ilorin, Akure, Anambra, Asaba, Ibadan, Calabar and Enugu, among others, are seeing fewer flights while routes like Lagos to Abuja, Port Harcourt, Owerri and Kano have frequent flights landing and take-off schedules.
Emeka Nwafor, managing director, Anambra International Cargo and Passenger Airport, told BusinessDay that there are few commercial planes flying in Nigeria now.
“Shortage of aircraft is affecting Anambra airport. For instance, an airline which operates one flight to Lagos and returns and one flight to Abuja and returns daily has reduced flight frequencies into and out of the airport.
“Currently, these flights do not operate as they used to. We now have skeletal weekly flights. The frequency has been reduced. Sometimes, there are cancellations and sometimes, there are no flights at all,” Nwafor said.
He disclosed that the second airline that operates into Anambra airport has an even more challenging problem, noting that at some point, this particular airline came down to one airplane.
“Once an airline delays a flight, that delay will affect its other operations. As an airport, we depend on aeronautical revenue such as aircraft landing and passenger service charges. This can only happen when the passenger flies. We are not very strong in retail, which are businesses at the airport terminal,” Nwafor further said.
In the last few months, few planes have had to feed several passengers on domestic routes as Nigerian airlines struggle with fleet reduction owing to high cost of maintenance.
Airlines that have sent their aircraft on maintenance are unable to return them as a result of the skyrocketing costs fuelled by foreign exchange scarcity.
Others have been forced by the NCAA to ground their aircraft for the inability to send them for maintenance, BusinessDay’s checks show.
In addition to these, the grounding of Dana Air, a relatively low-cost carrier, which had six aircraft in its fleet, has also impacted the fleet operating domestic routes.
Routes previously operated by Dana Air have seen increases in ticket costs.
Ndukwe Ginika Ogechi, chief executive officer, Geena Travels And Tours Ltd, told BusinessDay that in the last few weeks, ticket prices have continued to increase while seat capacity dwindled as there are no aircraft to service underserved routes.
“My clients have been complaining because it has been difficult to get flights going to destinations such as Asaba, Enugu, Owerri and some northern destinations. The airlines which previously operated two or more flights to these destinations may either operate one daily flight or not have any flight at all,” Ogechi said.
Data obtained by BusinessDay from NCAA shows that 13 domestic airlines operating in Nigeria have a total of 91 aircraft. This data includes aircraft that have gone on maintenance.
Sources close to the NCAA told BusinessDay that apart from Dana Air that has been grounded, over half of the 91 aircraft have gone on maintenance, putting a strain on the few operating aircraft.
BusinessDay’s checks show that five years ago, when just 10 domestic airlines operated on Nigerian routes, they had a fleet of over 120 airplanes.
The plane shortage has now been worsened by the grounding of Arik Air fleet by Festus Keyamo, minister of aviation, on Tuesday.
Travel experts say the reduction in aircraft has made travel exclusively for the rich and encouraged some airlines to monopolise certain routes.
Christopher Penninck, managing director, Asaba Airport Company, said the few aircraft that are available now are flying on high traffic routes such as Lagos to Abuja, or international routes to earn foreign exchange.
“The current aircraft shortage has a lot of impact. Currently, we have 70 percent less traffic. It is terrible. Some airports have no flights,” Penninck said.
He explained that the government should drastically lower the charges of the federal agencies.
“The government is overcharging and limiting the development of the industry. We are basically doing business to pay the inefficient agencies,” Penninck further said.
The Godwin Obaseki-led Edo State Government has said that it has uncovered a plot by the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State to allegedly infiltrate the #EndBadGovernance protests in the State to attack and destroy key public infrastructure in Benin City, the State capital.
In a statement to Naija News on Tuesday, Special Adviser to the Governor on Media Project, Crusoe Osagie, drew the attention of security agencies to the plans by the APC and its chieftains.
According to him, “Edo State Government has uncovered that these plans are being perfected by chieftains of the APC to use the pretext of the protest to vandalise government buildings and cause mayhem in order to advance their obnoxious political pursuit.
“Our findings have shown that the Secretariat Complex, the Benin Shopping Mall, the Edo Production Centre and the Ossiomo Power Company have been penciled down for attacks.”
He noted that the APC has planned for the attacks to take the public by surprise.
Osagie noted that the APC envisages that the protesters would be blamed for the destruction of property, allowing the party and their sponsored thugs to go scot free for the carnage they intend to cause.
He added: “Members of a particular secret cult have been penned down to lead the attacks with a popular APC leader set to mobilise them to these facilities.
“The APC is resorting to this devious plan because they have realized the folly of presenting a candidate that is unsuitable for the office of a governor. The party is embarrassed by the fact that their candidate has become the butt of jokes in private and public spaces because of his lack of comportment, finesse and intellectual maturity to comprehend and engage intelligently as someone running for the office of the governor.
“At various instances, the APC candidate has shown poor grasp of basic concepts and his handlers have decided on shielding him from the public glare, hiding instead behind press releases and spokespersons. They have now resorted to violence and subterfuge as their strategy to forcefully take over the government.”
He noted that the resort to violence is a recipe for anarchy, calling on all security agencies in the State, including the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), the Department of State Services (DSS), the Brigade Commander, 4 Brigade, Benin, among others, to take notice of the planned attack and do well to forestall the intent to destroy public facilities.
“These facilities are not used by only members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) but include public buildings to improve governance and also comprise investment by well-meaning business owners who seek the progress of our dear State.
“We, therefore, call on the security agencies to not only provide security at these facilities but also set their radar on chieftains of the APC during the protests so as to intercept any attempt to throw the State into chaos during the protest, in the best interest of the good people of Edo State,” he added.
[NaijaNews]
Simon Ekpa, a controversial Biafran agitator, has claimed responsibility for the killing of four police operatives in Owerri, Imo State, South East Nigeria.
PREMIUM TIMES earlier reported that gunmen attacked and killed four police operatives along the Onitsha-Owerri Expressway at about 6:30 p.m. on Monday.
Aside from the operatives, the hoodlums also shot dead a woman – a Point on Sale (PoS) machine operator – in the area.
Mr Ekpa, a Nigerian who is based in Finland, heads Autopilot, a faction of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
The Biafra agitator also founded Biafra Defence Forces and Biafra Liberation Army, which are armed militant wings of the Autopilot IPOB.
He has been linked to some deadly attacks in the region.
In a post on his X handle shortly after the attack, Mr Ekpa announced that members of his Biafra Defence Forces had killed the operatives in Owerri.
“The Biafra Defence Forces Owerri Command has recovered weapons from the terrorists after neutralising them in numbers,” he wrote on the microblogging platform at exactly 8:50 p.m. on Monday.
Mr Ekpa, a Nigerian-Finnish citizen, often refers to Nigerian security operatives as “terrorists.”
The Biafra agitator said he and his group are demanding the withdrawal of all Nigerian security forces from the South East and that they were committed to enforcing the demand.
“If you think you will continue to use force and terrorism tactics to force us to remain in the union, this will continue to be your faith in Biafraland,” Mr Ekpa stated, referring to the latest attack on the police.
The Biafra agitator often shares on his X handle details of attacks in Nigeria’s South East.
Like IPOB, which Nnamdi Kanu leads, Mr Ekpa is seeking the secession of the South East and some parts of the South South from Nigeria to form an independent state known as Biafra.
The agitators often refer to the South East and South South regions as “Biafraland.”
Mr Ekpa also attached a video clip to the X post.
The clip showed four rifles and some police case files displayed by some persons who claimed to have attacked and killed the operatives.
The clip, however, did not show the faces of the persons speaking in the background.
“Papa, it wasn’t easy. You know today is the beginning of sit-at-home (in the South East). People were asked to sit at home, and these people (police operatives) came out to extort people,” one person said in the Igbo language.
“These are Nigerian terrorists who were at their duty post despite our leader’s sit-at-home order. But they felt they work for the government and would not obey the order.
“They have now seen it happen today in Owerri, which is 29 July 2024,” he stated.
The armed men appeared to be making a report of their operation to Mr Ekpa, who had earlier declared a four-day sit-at-home in the South East.
Apparently addressing security operatives, one of the armed men added: “Our leader earlier told you, people, that any police or army operative in Biafraland, it is better you resign or we will use your head to work.”
Mr Ekpa, on 21 July, declared a four-day sit-at-home across the five states in the South East.
The Finland-based Nigerian, in a statement posted on his X handle, said the illegal order would be enforced in the region from 29 July to 2 August, excluding 1 August.
Several persons and the Nigerian government have called for Mr Ekpa’s repatriation to Nigeria to face charges over his role in the insecurity in the South East.
For instance, Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State, on 21 July, asked some members of the House of Representatives to consider repatriating Mr Ekpa to Nigeria to face prosecution.
The Chief of Defence Staff, Christopher Musa, last June, accused the Finnish government and the European Union of blocking the repatriation of the Biafra agitator.
Last year, the Nigerian Senate asked the federal government to collaborate with the Finnish government to extradite Mr Ekpa for prosecution.
Finnish government speaks on Ekpa’s repatriation
In February 2023, Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs had summoned The Finnish Ambassador to Nigeria, Leena Pylvanainen, over threat by Mr Ekpa to disrupt the country’s 2023 general elections.
Geoffrey Onyeama, the then Nigerian Minister of Foreign Affairs, in a meeting with the Finnish ambassador, asked for the cooperation of the Finnish government to repatriate Mr Ekpa.
But Mrs Pylvanainen said although the Finnish government was concerned about the situation, there was a need to take Mr Ekpa’s rights into consideration given that he is a Finnish citizen.
“So, everything has to obviously be done according to Finnish legislation,” she stated.
In a reaction to latest incident, the Commissioner of Police in Imo State, Aboki Danjuma, “condemned the attack and gruesome murder” of his men and a civilian.
A statement issued in Owerri by the command’s spokesman, ASP Henry Okoye, and made available to NAN, accused the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra/Eastern Security Network of being the masterminds.
Okoye disclosed that the CP “has deployed the command’s Tactical Units with the available operational assets and intelligence to go all out in synergy with other security agencies and hunt down the hoodlums responsible for the attack.”
According to the statement, the operatives were ambushed while on a routine patrol at Irete on the Owerri-Onitsha expressway.
“They fought gallantly but, unfortunately, four paid the supreme price, while a civilian was fatally hit.
“On receipt of the unfortunate incident, the CP immediately mobilised to the scene for an on-the-spot assessment of the ugly incident,” Okoye added.
He also explained that the remains of the deceased had been evacuated and deposited at the mortuary, while the injured person was rushed to a nearby hospital “where he is currently responding to treatment.
“The CP expressed sadness over the unfortunate incident and vowed that the command will leave no stone unturned in ensuring that the perpetrators are all arrested and brought to justice,” he further stated.
The statement described the tragic incident “as a painful reminder of the daily risks and sacrifices police operatives face in their unwavering commitment to public safety.
“CP Danjuma commiserates with the families of the deceased and prayed for the repose of their souls,” it added.
It quoted the state police chief to have called on the general public, particularly the residents of Ogbakwu, “who may have any information that will assist in apprehending the assailants to report the same to the nearest police station.
Okoye stated that the report could also be made available to the command via its emergency lines 08034773600 or 08098880197.
[Dailytrust]
The former lawmaker who represented Kaduna Central senatorial district in the National Assembly, Shehu Sani has urged former Ekiti State governor, Ayodele Fayose to tender an apology to Northerners following his comments on people of the region.
Fayose had in an interview on a Channels Television programme on Monday night stirred the hornet’s nest when he said the failure of the federal government to develop Nigeria was because northerners were marrying multiple wives and having many children indiscriminately thereby constituting a huge problem for Nigeria and a burden on the government.
“The reason why it is difficult for Tinubu to develop Nigeria is because Northerners are giving birth to children they can’t cater for,” Fayose said.
Reacting in a post on his official X handle on Tuesday, the former lawmaker said Fayose’s statement was not palatable.
“Even though Fayose spoke as an individual, his reported statement on Northerners is contemptuous and unconscionable.
“I suggest he should humbly withdraw it and tender an apology as a statesman”, Sani stated.
[DailyPost]
More...
- Despite the government backtracking on unpopular tax hikes, protesters now demand deeper measures to remedy economic disparities and government accountability
- 'To address these protests, the government needs to take tangible steps towards transparency, initiate meaningful reforms, and engage in genuine dialogue with the protesters. Without these actions, the unrest is likely to persist and potentially escalate,' political analyst Simon Mukhwana tells Anadolu
NAIROBI, Kenya
Kenya's streets remain a battleground as protests, sparked by controversial tax hikes, evolve into a wider outcry against deep-rooted economic disparities and a perceived lack of government accountability.
At the forefront of this movement is a generation of young Kenyans, refusing to be silenced despite facing escalating police crackdowns.
The protests erupted earlier this year in response to a government-proposed finance bill that included a slew of tax hikes amidst an already challenging economic environment.
The bill sparked public outrage, particularly among young people, who saw it as a move that would exacerbate an ongoing cost of living crisis in the East African nation. Widespread claims of government corruption and mismanagement only added fuel to the flames.
Kenyan President William Ruto bowed to the ensuing pressure by firing almost his entire Cabinet and initiating the process of building a new one. Despite this and other government concessions, the demonstrations have shown no signs of abating.
Youth in the spotlight
Young Kenyans, have been at the forefront of the demonstrations. Armed with smartphones and social media savvy, they have mobilized with remarkable speed and agility, bypassing traditional media channels to organize, share information, and galvanize support for protests calling for Ruto’s resignation.
Many express a sense of fearlessness, born from witnessing years of political corruption and economic hardship.
"This is not just about taxes anymore, the protests have changed into what the youth feel they need and they are not backing down. It will be tough to bring the protests to a stop until they get what they want," explains Wandia Njoya, a political analyst at Daystar University. "It's about a generation demanding a better future, one where they are not perpetually marginalized."
The demonstrations began in June, ignited by widespread frustration over government corruption and economic mismanagement. Young people expressed their anger by burning down a section of the parliament building during the initial wave of protests.
Every Tuesday and Thursday, Kenyans assemble on the streets to protest, frustrating the government, often met with a heavy police response. To date, 50 people have been killed in confrontations with law enforcement, according to the state-owned Kenya National Commission on Human Rights.
Sheila Mwangi, a 24-year-old activist, is determined to continue protesting. "We are tired of empty promises. We have so many unresolved issues with this government," she says. "We want real change, not just for ourselves but for future generations."
Their grievances extend beyond the now-withdrawn finance bill, encompassing broader issues such as unemployment, police brutality, and lack of government accountability. "We don't want people from the old Cabinet back, and we want the president to step down. We've endured years of broken promises and corrupt leadership," Mwangi added.
According to human rights activist David Karanja, police brutality has been a significant rallying point for the protesters. "The government's heavy-handed approach has only strengthened the resolve of the youth to continue their fight," he said.
Karanja noted that the regular demonstrations have become a powerful symbol of the people's determination to hold the government accountable and demand a better future.
However, he pointed out a significant challenge: "However, the leaderless nature of the movement presents a significant challenge.
"Without a central figure or organized leadership, coordinating efforts and negotiating with authorities becomes difficult."
On the streets of Nairobi, Kenyans voiced different sentiments on how the protests can come to an end.
Amina Hassan, a 21-year-old university student said, "As students, we are the future of this country, and we refuse to inherit a broken system, Kenya is standing at a critical juncture, a make-or-break moment."
"We are protesting because we want quality education, job opportunities, and a government that listens to our voices. We will not stop until we see genuine change," she said.
Many protesters, like high school teacher Grace Wanjiru, are on the streets for a better future for their children.
"They deserve an education system that prepares them for success, not one hindered by political instability and lack of funding. We are fighting for their future and our own. The only way this can stop is if all demands are met," she said.
The path forward
Besides these hopeful sentiments, uncertainty prevails on how the country will go forward, with many possible scenarios looming.
According to political analyst Simon Mukhwana, if confrontation between protesters and the government fails to subside, this could lead to prolonged instability and further economic disruption.
Alternatively, authorities could offer more substantial concessions, he said, admitting also that it will take significant reforms to address the deep-rooted structural issues in the government.
The worst-case scenario could see the situation spiral into violence, potentially resulting in a prolonged and bloody conflict.
"The protests are a culmination of years of pent-up frustration and anger among the populace," Mukhwana explained.
"People are fed up with the pervasive corruption, economic hardships, and lack of accountability from the government. The return of figures from the old Cabinet has only added fuel to the fire, as it shows a continuation of the same failed policies and leadership," he said, adding:
"The path forward remains uncertain but to address these protests, the government needs to take tangible steps towards transparency, initiate meaningful reforms, and engage in genuine dialogue with the protesters. Without these actions, the unrest is likely to persist and potentially escalate."
As Kenya stands at a critical juncture, civic groups and international observers have called for immediate dialogue between the government and the protesters to avoid risks of deeper chaos. The emphasis is on creating a platform where grievances can be addressed constructively, and a roadmap for reforms can be established.
[https://www.aa.com]
Nigerians should learn from the bitter outcomes of the ongoing widespread protests in Kenya, an activist cleric, Bishop Wycliffe Khaemba, has admonished the youths preparing to take to the streets tomorrow.“
“I urge you to learn from what has happened and is still occurring in Kenya,” the bishop, who has been into activism for 28 years, said in a statement yesterday.
“We allowed ourselves to be led into violent protests and disturbances, thinking they would lead to a desired outcome. Unfortunately, they have resulted in an undesirable outcome,” he said.
Kenya has been engulfed by massive and violent protests of tax hikes, forcing the government to reverse the increases and cut the cost of governance.
Despite the concessions by the government, the mass action has persisted with its attendant large-scale destruction of public infrastructure.
Khaemba, who pastors the One Ministry Methodist, advised Nigerian youths not to travel the same route because it would not end well for them and the nation.
Describing the gory consequences of the protests in Kenya, he stated: “Tens of thousands of small and medium-scale enterprises have been destroyed along with major public infrastructure, and people’s lives have been turned upside down.
”The education of our next generation has been affected, and we are not even back at square one. We are farther back.”
He said the people had, however, found out that the protests were funded by foreigners who would never allow the Kenyan government or non-governmental institutions to interfere in their nations.
Khaemba stated further: “My message to Nigeria is this: Do not wait to learn from your mistakes. Instead, learn from our error of judgment in Kenya.“
“Those who are sponsoring these protests from abroad will not come and help you rebuild Lagos and Abuja after violent protesters destroy your cities.
”Instead, they will offer you cutthroat loans to keep you in bondage to them. So, please listen to the voice of reason and pursue dialogue rather than protests.”
[Vanguard]
...Nigerians should be patient with Tinubu - Igbo Coalition
...Demands release of Nnamdi Kanu
The Coalition of Igbo Political and Social-Cultural Groups, as well as market leaders in Lagos State, has distanced themselves from the proposed 10-day national hunger protest, stating that Ndigbo will not participate in any demonstration.
The Coalition, made up of 16 large groups, which included the Council of Ndieze in Lagos, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Lagos, South-East Forum in Lagos, Igbo Mandate, seven Igbo Towns Unions, Igbo Speaking Community, Igbo Vision APC Lagos, Igbo Market Men and Women Associations, and Ndigbo in APC, advised Igbo traders to stay home and not open their businesses on days of the protest, fixed for August 1 to 10, to avoid being attacked.
The Igbo stakeholders in Lagos State noted that, while there is no dispute that there is hardship in the country, the current economic situation bedevilling the country is not limited to Nigeria and was not caused by the incumbent government led by President Bola Tinubu.
They said the present situation of things in the country is a cumulative effect and result of past bad governance, which logically and sensibly cannot be attributed to President Bola Tinubu’s administration, which is barely one year in the saddle.
Speaking during a press conference held at the Lagos Airport Hotel, Ikeja, the Coordinator of the Coalition, High Chief Anselm Njoku, said a national protest at a time when the Federal Government is trying to revamp the economy is going to be counterproductive, hence ill advised.
He said, “We are distancing ourselves and the entire Ndigbo in Lagos from the planned protest by some unscrupulous faceless elements, who are partly using Igbo nomenclatures to fan the embers of unsounded agitation. Nigerians should develop a culture of dialogue with the government and deploy constructive criticism without resorting to unnecessary provocative protests and violence.
“It is in this regard that we enjoin all Igbo of all extraditions, stakeholders, residents, traders, and captains of industries not to join in the protest. Lagos is Yoruba land, and Ndigbo, who are residents here, have contributed immensely to its development, so they cannot be used, coerced in whatever form, to destroy assets.
“We are not destruction-prone and cannot be part of those seeking to destroy what we partly built. Ndigbo are not wired for destruction but develop wherever we are residing.
“Let it be known that from all intelligence gatherings, the faceless organisers of this planned protest are not known to us, not Igbos, and are merely hiding under Ndigbo names, dropping Igbo names to create confusion and gather credibility.”
Njoku, who noted that President Tinubu inherited a bad economy and should be given time to settle down, thanked the President for approving the South East Development Commission and appealed to him to expedite action on the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu through a political process rather than judiciary means.
“We are also using this opportunity to thank President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the South-East Development Commission, for deeming it right, and due to appoint an Igbo illustrious son as the Chief of Naval Staff, therefore allowing the Igbo ethnic group a say in the National Security structure. We will greatly appreciate it if the President makes the Commission rewarding and beneficial to Ndigbo in general, touching the lives of people in that zone.
“In line with the robust relationship between our President and the South-East people, we appealed to the President, as a gentleman Democrat, to expedite action on the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu through a political process rather than judicial means, just as many prominent Ndigbo leaders had recently appealed and advocated,” he advised.
Also speaking, the President, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Lagos State, Chief Sunday Ossai, said the Igbo in Lagos have always been wrongly accused of organising protests in the state, which has always put their lives in danger.
“Ndigbo have always been wrongly accused, so we have come out to deny accusations against us. We don’t know anything about organising the protest. Ndigbo are not part of it. We are innocent. I appeal to Ndigbo to be cautious of their movements and urge them to stay home and not go for their businesses on the day of the protest,” he said.
The Eze Ndigbo Ikeja and Chairman, Board of Trustees (BoT) of the Council of Ndieze, Lagos State, Eze Dr. Uche Dimgba, said Igbo will not participate in the national protest because they are not part of the planners, noting that all Ndigbo have been advised not to take part in the protest.
The President-General, Igbo Speaking Community, Lagos State, Sunday Eze, who noted that Igbo are legitimate businessmen and women, appealed to the Lagos State Government to protect their businesses, homes and their families during the protest as they are not part of it. “We cannot leave our hometown and come to Lagos to destroy property,” he said.
L-R: Chairman, Aregbe Igbo Mandate, Lagos, Prince Udoka Echekwu; Chairman, Council of Ndieze, Lagos state, Eze Offia; Eze Ndigbo (Ikeja) and BOT Chairman, Council of Ndieze, Lagos state, Dr. Uche Dimgba; Coordinator, Coalition of Igbo Political & Socio-Cultural Groups, High Chief Anselm Njoku; President, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Lagos state, Chief Sunday Ossia and President-General, Igbo Speaking Community, Lagos state, Chief Sunday Eze, during the Press Conference on the "Proposed Agitation/Protest in Nigeria" held at the Airport Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos on Tuesday 30th July, 2024
A Lagos High Court has issued a restriction on protesters willing to participate in the proposed August 1 nationwide protest, limiting them to the Gani Fawehinmi Freedom Park in Ojota and Peace Park in the Ketu area of the state.
The ruling was handed down on Tuesday by Justice Emmanuel Ogundare following a preemptive ex parte application filed by the state Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr Lawal Pedro, SAN.
The application aimed to maintain public safety and prevent potential loss of lives and property during the protests.
Justice Ogundare’s order restricts the protests to the two designated parks, effectively preventing demonstrations from spreading to other parts of Lagos.
The application listed Adamma Ukpabi and Tosin Harsogba (representing Active Citizens Group), Comrade Juwon Sanyaolu and Hassan Soweto (representing Take it Back Movement), persons unknown, and the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State, as co-defendants.
Mr Pedro argued that, as the Chief Law Officer of the State, he was aware of various groups planning to participate in the protest, both for and against it.
He emphasized the need to protect critical infrastructure and prevent a repeat of the irreparable loss of lives and property witnessed during the EndSARS protest in 2020.
Pedro pointed out that the police in Lagos State lack sufficient manpower to provide adequate security for protests across all local government councils, public highways, and other public areas.
He stressed the importance of preventing the protest from being hijacked by hoodlums who could disrupt law and order under the guise of protesting against alleged bad governance.
The ruling comes amidst heightened tensions and preparations for the nationwide protest set to commence on August 1.
According to Pedro, “In recognition of the citizen’s fundamental right to stage a public protest against government policies and actions but prevent unlawful destruction of lives and properties in the process, the Lagos State Government has designated two public spaces and locations in the State where citizens can meet and converge to protest or express their displeasure against government. The locations are Gani Fawehinmi Freedom Park, Ojota, Lagos State and Peace Park, Ketu, Lagos State.
“Public protest in all the local government councils and public highways as well as other areas of public access in the State for 10 days is a deliberate plan to shut down the State, and if this is allowed it will amount to economic sabotage.
“An order of the court is required in the circumstances so as to protect the fundamental rights of 1st to 5th Defendants/Respondents to protest and other residents opposed to the protest to go about their lawful without harassment, disturbance and destruction of public buildings/properties.”
After listening to his argument, Justice Ogundare granted all the reliefs sought in the application.
He held, “AN ORDER OF PRE-EMPTIVE REMEDY by way of interim injunction is hereby granted restraining the 1st to 5th Defendants/Respondents, whether by themselves, their agents, privies, servants or any other person(s) acting through them from converging and carrying out their proposed peaceful public protest, rallies, procession and meetings in Lagos State from the 1-10″ August 1-10, 2024 excerpt in the approved designated location for peaceful public protest, rallies and meetings, to wit: Gani Fawehinmi Freedom Park, Ikorodu Road, Ojota, Lagos State and Peace Park Ketu Lagos from 8 .00 am to 6 pm pending compliance with the pre-action protocol by the Claimant.
“AN ORDER OF PRE-EMPTIVE REMEDY by way of interim preservative order is hereby granted directing the 6th Defendant to protect the fundamental rights of the 1st to 5th Defendants/Respondents to freedom of association, peaceful public protest, procession and tallies in the approved designated location for peaceful public protest, rallies and meetings in Lagos State, To wit: Gani Fawehinm Freedom Park, Ikorodu Road Ojota, Lagos and Peace Park, Ketu Lagos from 8 am to 6 pm on August 1-10, 2024 pending compliance with the pre-action protocol by the Claimant.
“AN ORDER OF PRE-EMPTIVE REMEDY by way of interim preservative order is hereby granted directing the 6th Defendant to provide security support and traffic management support to the 1st to 5th Defendants at the approved designated location for their proposed peaceful public protest, rallies and meetings in Lagos State, To wit: Gani Fawehinmi Freedom Park, Ikorodu Road, Ojota, Lagos State and Peace Park Ketu Lagos from 8 am to 6 pm on 1st -10% August, 2024 pending compliance with the pre-action protocol by the Claimant.
“An Order of substituted service of the Order of this Court in this matter, the Memorandum of Claim/Letter of Claim and all other pre-action protocols documents on the 1st- 5th Defendants/Respondents by Newspaper publication in a National daily to wit: any other widely read newspaper and the service shall be deemed as good and sufficient service on the Defendants/Respondents.”