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'You Have Become A Failed Institution' – Labour Slams NBS Over Drop In Unemployment Rate Report
AFOLABI
The Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) has stated that the latest report by the National Bureau of Statistics on the country’s unemployment rate does not reflect economic realities.
NBS in its latest report stated that Nigeria’s unemployment rate declined to 4.3 per cent in the second quarter of 2024, signalling improved labour market conditions.
According to the report, this marks a decrease from the 5.3 per cent recorded in Q1 2024 and reflects a gradual recovery from the 5.0 per cent in Q3 2023.
Reacting to the development while speaking to Punch, the National Assistant General Secretary of the NLC, Chris Onyeka, labelled the report as a “voodoo document” that fails to reflect the stark realities Nigerians face daily.
Onyeka dismissed the claim that unemployment is decreasing, calling it a “fabrication designed to mislead the public.”
He argued that it was impossible for employment to be coming down while factories were closing.
He said, “Unemployment cannot be coming down in Nigeria when factories are closing shops.
“It cannot be coming down when there is increasing inventory and reduced consumer spending. If anything, unemployment is increasing.”
He further questioned the methodology behind the NBS report, describing it as a “figment of imagination concocted by people who want to manipulate figures.”
According to Onyeka, the lack of alignment between the data and visible realities on the ground undermines the credibility of the statistics agency.
“Once data does not reflect reality, it loses relevance. Unfortunately, the NBS has lost credibility as a result of the data they continue spewing out,” he stated.
Onyeka challenged the NBS to substantiate its claims by identifying the sectors supposedly generating jobs. “Where are the jobs coming from? Is it from employers who are complaining of consumer resistance and slowing economic activities? It doesn’t add up,” he remarked.
He likened the situation to what he described as “INEC-style manipulation,” a term he used to draw parallels between perceived shortcomings in Nigeria’s election management and the NBS figures.
“Nigerians can go to court if they don’t like the figures. But the truth remains: the NBS has become a failed institution, much like INEC in the eyes of the public,” Onyeka concluded.
Nigeria’s unemployment rate declined to 4.3 per cent in the second quarter of 2024, signalling improved labour market conditions.
According to the latest report released on Monday, by the National Bureau of Statistics, this marked a decrease from the 5.3 per cent recorded in Q1 2024 and reflected a gradual recovery from the 5.0 per cent in Q3 2023.
The Labour Force Participation Rate rose to 79.5 per cent, up from 77.3 per cent in the previous quarter, highlighting increased workforce engagement.
The Employment-to-Population Ratio also showed significant improvement, climbing to 76.1 per cent in Q2 2024 from 73.2 per cent in Q1 2024.
This indicates that a higher proportion of the working-age population was gainfully employed during the period.
Also, self-employment remained dominant, accounting for 85.6 per cent of total employment, an increase from 84 per cent in the preceding quarter.
Informal employment also rose slightly to 93.0 per cent, highlighting the economy’s reliance on informal jobs.
Urban unemployment stood at 5.2 per cent, a reduction from 6.0 per cent in Q1 2024.
However, rural areas recorded an even lower unemployment rate of 2.8 per cent, compared to 4.3 per cent in the previous quarter.
This disparity highlights the continued role of agriculture and informal activities in rural employment, contrasting with the urban dependence on formal and service-driven jobs.
The youth unemployment rate (ages 15–24) dropped significantly to 6.5 per cent, compared to 8.4 per cent in Q1 2024.
The report further revealed gender disparities, with the unemployment rate for females at 5.1 per cent, compared to 3.4 per cent for males.
This suggests a need for targeted gender-inclusive policies to bridge the employment gap.
The report read, “The unemployment rate is defined as the share of the labour force not employed but actively searching for and available for work.
“Unemployment is one of the components of labour underutilisation. The unemployment rate for Q2 2024 was 4.3 per cent, showing an increase of 0.1 percentage point compared to the same period last year.
“The unemployment rate among males was 3.4 per cent and 5.1 per cent among females.
“By place of residence, the unemployment rate was 5.2 per cent in urban areas and 2.8 per cent in rural areas. Youth unemployment rate was 6.5 per cent in Q2 2024, showing a decrease from 8.4 per cent in Q1 2024.”
Time-related underemployment, which measures workers seeking additional hours, dropped to 9.2 per cent in Q2 2024 from 10.6 per cent in Q1.
Labour underutilisation metrics also improved, with LU2 (unemployment and time-related underemployment) decreasing to 13.0 per cent from 15.3 per cent in the previous quarter.
LU3 and LU4 metrics, which include potential labour force participation, also recorded declines to 5.9 per cent and 14.5 per cent, respectively.
The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, has responded to allegations from Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governors regarding manipulation of the 2024 Edo State governorship election.
During a recent two-day meeting in Jos, Plateau State, the PDP governors claimed that electoral irregularities prevented the party’s candidate, Asue Ighodalo, from winning in Edo.
They PDP governors also accused INEC of rigging in the recent Ondo election.
They alleged that INEC altered results to benefit the APC and urged the judiciary and lawmakers to enhance electoral laws to combat what they referred to as “institutional sabotage of the will of the people”.
In response, Rotimi Oyekanmi, Chief Press Secretary to the INEC Chairman, called the allegations “unfortunate and inappropriate,” emphasizing that INEC, as a law-abiding body, cannot comment on ongoing court matters.
Oyekanmi criticized the PDP governors for engaging in a “media trial”, encouraging them to present their evidence in court instead of making unsubstantiated claims publicly.
He pointed out that the PDP has filed a petition at the tribunal to contest the Edo State governorship election results, suggesting they should provide their evidence there.
Regarding the Ondo State election, Oyekanmi defended INEC’s performance, labeling it one of the best elections conducted by the Commission.
He urged political parties to adopt a spirit of sportsmanship, stating, “It is not healthy to accept the outcome of an election only when you win.”
DAILY POST recalls that the electoral body had declared Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC) winner of the Edo election with 291,667 votes, with the PDP candidate, Dr. Asue Ighodalo, securing 247,274 votes. Labour Party’s Olumide Akpata came third with 22,761 votes.
Similarly, in Ondo, INEC declared Lucky Aiyedatiwa as the winner of the governorship election that was held on Nov 14 defeating the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, candidate Agboola Ajayi, and Olorunfemi Festus of the Labour Party.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang, on Monday, submitted the 2025 Appropriation Bill, titled “Budget of Consolidation and Sustainability,” along with the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework/Fiscal Strategy Paper (MTEF/FSP) for the period 2025–2027, to the Plateau State House of Assembly.
Naija News reports that the Governor highlighted that the MTEF/FSP delineates his administration’s fiscal strategy aimed at achieving significant economic development objectives, which include fostering economic diversification, reforming public institutions, enhancing human capital, addressing infrastructure shortfalls, and advancing urban renewal and sustainable housing initiatives.
During the presentation, Governor Mutfwang said, “The MTEF/FSP establishes a three-year fiscal plan and serves as the basis for the formulation of the 2025 budget. It details the macroeconomic and fiscal framework for the years 2025–2027. This document adheres to Section 16(1) and (2) of the Plateau State Fiscal Responsibility Law of 2014.
“It guarantees that resources are allocated effectively to priority sectors, representing a conscious effort to enhance transparency and accountability in accordance with global best practices.”
The Governor revealed that the proposed budget for 2025 amounts to ₦471,134,093,541.00, reflecting an increase of ₦156,278,944,988.00 compared to the approved budget for 2024.
“The 2025 Appropriation Bill reflects our commitment to solidify past achievements and ensure the continued growth and development of Plateau State,” he said.
“The implementation of the budget will be guided by the Plateau Strategic Development Framework (PSDF) 2023–2027, which is encapsulated in three pillar policies: Peace, Security, and Good Governance; Sustainable Economic Rebirth; and Physical Infrastructure Development. The budget will be people-oriented, positively impacting the lives of the citizens of our state.”
Governor Mutfwang urged the Assembly to expedite the passage of the bill, emphasizing, “A swift approval will enable us to initiate the implementation of these vital projects without delay.”
In response, Speaker of the House, Gabriel Dewan, assured the Governor of the Assembly’s commitment to acting in the best interest of Plateau State.
The Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) has said the country’s effort in combating money laundering, terrorism and arms proliferation financing has been recognized by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF).
NFIU said FATF approved three additional grades in its anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing quest, making it the fifth progress report.
FATF, a global body established in 1995 to lead global action against money laundering, terrorism, and arms proliferation financing, grey-listed Nigeria in February 2023.
The organization grey-listed Nigeria due to a rise in capital inflows and deficiencies in combating money laundering, terrorism, and arms financing.
In a statement, on Sunday, by the NIFU’s Strategic Communications Office in Abuja, the organization explained that “FATF gave the approval at a meeting of Group Against Money Laundering in West Africa (GIABA) technical commission which took place between November 17 and 23, 2024 in Freetown, the Republic of Sierra Leone.
“Statutorily, as it stands today, the country is compliant (C) or largely compliant (LC) in 37 out of the 40 recommendations, leaving it with three to scale.
“Chief Executive Officer of the NFIU, Hafsat Abubakar Bakari, who doubles as Nigeria’s National Correspondent (NC) for the ECOWAS’ GIABA, led the country’s delegation.”
Included in the team were representatives from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Special Control Unit against Money Laundering (SCUML), Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Federal Ministry of Justice (FMOJ), Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) and Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA)
The Presidency has rejected claims by the Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Matthew Kukah, that President Bola Tinubu is an accidental leader, insisting that the president was well-prepared for the position.
Reacting to Bishop Kukah’s remarks, the Presidency described Tinubu as a reformer whose leadership is already impacting various sectors of the country.
The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, in his reaction, said, “He (Tinubu) is not an accidental leader, he is doing his best to ensure that we have a turn around in this country.
“Does he look like one at all? What I am saying is that, the man is not an accidental leader, he was prepared for this office. He even said it himself that he prepared for it and that he is doing his best to ensure that this country is lifted higher than he met it, he is doing his best.
“Because he prepared himself for the office, he is doing a lot of reform, he is touching every area and he is trying to make sure that this country is being turn-around.
“For those who said that the President is an accidental leader, that is the reason he is struggling.
“Tinubu has shown that he is a reformer and reforms are not done in quick fixes, it takes time for you to turn things around and he is doing it.
“He is doing reforms and he is the first to acknowledge that people will be affected and he is doing everything possible to ensure that those who are affected are also helped so that they will not be left behind.
“He is reforming a lot of things in Nigeria, you are talking about taxation, you are talking about the oil sector, so many reforms the man is carrying out.”
A former Chief of Staff to Ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, Professor Ibrahim Gambari, has advocated for further decentralization of power between the federal and state governments.
The diplomat argued that the concentration of power with the federal government is too much, adding that the current situation is a result of prolonged years of military rule.
According to him, with the democratic dispensation in full swing, there is a need to consider matters that are on the exclusive and concurrent lists so state governments can assume greater responsibilities and local governments can also be strengthened.
Naija News reports he made the submission while speaking as a guest on the Sunday edition of Inside Sources with Laolu Akande, on Channels Television.
The elder statesman said, “We have to decentralise power. The power of the central government is become so much. We have to find a way of decentralisation; it’s not necessarily by creating 50 more states or 200 more local governments but those things that could be done competently like education, agriculture, and others, let the state take charge.
“It’s not by accident that power has become so concentrated at the centre; it is the prolonged military rule. They (heads of state) nominate governors and so on. But now, we are in a democracy, and I sincerely believe that we have to take a second look at that so that matters that don’t need to be on the exclusive or concurrent lists are not there.
“We must strengthen local government authorities. The local government autonomy is a good step but it is not just about money because if you don’t strengthen the capacities of the local governments and also the process as to which people become chairmen of local governments, you can throw money there, and it goes down the drain.”
The diplomat said the progress and development of Africa relies on Nigeria, and the country must, therefore, pull its weight accordingly.
“The future of Africa depends on Nigeria. Because according to the United Nations, Nigeria will become the most populous country in the world by 2050, we are already the not populous in Africa.
“It’s not late. The country, by God’s grace, is going to survive because I believe that the Almighty has a purpose for putting that much number of people in this place, and to an extent, we cannot be ignored in the world,” he said.
The Senate has stated that President Bola Tinubu will likely president the 2025 budget this week.
According to the Senate spokesperson, Yemi Adaramodu ( APC, Ekiti South), the Finance Committee will meet with the Ministries, Departments, and Agencies on Monday.
He said, “The President would likely present the 2025 budget this week or in earnest.
“The Senate Committee on Finance is already working on the Medium Term Expenditure Framework and would be meeting with the MDAs tomorrow (Monday).
“The MDAs are expected to defend their 2024 expenditure and also project their 2025 budget.”
Tinubu submitted the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework and Fiscal Strategy Paper for 2025–2027 to both the Senate and the House of Representatives last Tuesday.
Akpabio directed the Senate Committee on Finance, National Planning, and Economic Affairs to consider the MTEF/FSP documents and report within one week.
Key parameters in the MTEF/FSP include a $75 oil price benchmark per barrel, daily oil production of 2.06 million barrels, an exchange rate of N1,400 to $1, and a targeted GDP growth rate of 6.4%.
These figures form the basis for consideration and approval of the proposed N47.9tn 2025 budget.
Our correspondent also observed that there is work ongoing in the chamber to fix some minor issues ahead of the President’s visit.
The Dangote Petroleum Refinery says it has reduced the price of its Premium Motor Spirit from N990 per litre to N970/litre.
The PUNCH reports that this is the amount marketers would buy the product from the refinery.
In a statement released on Sunday, the Group Chief Branding and Communications Officer of the Dangote Group, Anthony Chiejina, said the reduction was to appreciate Nigerians as the year ends.
“As the year comes to an end, this is our way of appreciating the good people of Nigeria for their unwavering support in making the refinery a dream come true. In addition, this is to thank the government for their support as this will complement the measures put in place to encourage domestic enterprise for our collective well-being,” the statement read.
Chiejina said the refinery would not compromise on the quality of its petroleum products while assuring Nigerians of the best quality products that are environmentally friendly and sustainable.
“We are determined to keep ramping up production to meet and surpass our domestic fuel consumption; thus, dispelling any fear of a shortfall in supply,” the statement concluded.
Our correspondent recalls that the Major Energies Marketers Association of Nigeria said on Friday that the landing cost of imported petrol is now N971/litre.
Recently, both independent and major marketers confirmed that the pump prices of petrol have started reducing in many parts of Nigeria due to the competition that the deregulation of the downstream sector has caused.
The spokesman of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria, Chinedu Ukadike, said the agreement between IPMAN and Dangote is gradually pushing down the price of PMS.
“By just the announcement that IPMAN and Dangote have met and are ready to transact business, the prices of products have crashed. You would have noticed the drop in prices by N10, N15, or so, and this is due to competition.
“Independent marketers are no longer buying from middlemen. We are going to be buying directly from the producer. So, the competition is setting in. I also want to tell you that before the end of this year, the price will not be as high as what you see now.
“You can see how our meeting with Dangote has significantly removed about N10 from the prices of refined petroleum products. It is a good development. We have not even started. Remember I once told you that prices would drop once IPMAN started lifting from Dangote,” Ukadike stated.
Also confirming the drop in prices, a major oil marketer stated that this was due to the deregulation of the downstream oil sector.
“People are not noticing that prices are going down, primarily because there are no big announcements. Deregulation is in full swing and competition is the order of the day,” the major oil marketer, who spoke in confidence due to lack of authorisation to speak on the matter, stated.
When told that the cost of petrol was still above N1,000/litre and was N1,070/litre in filling stations operated by his company, the dealer replied, “Last week it was N1,080 (in some filling stations) if you were observant.
“You may not see N900; that is below cost. Just stop expecting a permanent fixed price. It can come down and it can go up.”
More price reduction
Reacting to the price reduction, marketers described the gesture as a welcome development.
According to IPMAN, the decision by Dangote may be connected with the drop of fuel prices at the international market.
“It is a welcome development. This is the beauty of deregulation. What Nigeria has to do now is to ensure that all refineries are working to ensure total competition, so that fuel prices would be determined by market forces of demand and supply.
“Marketers will also tune down price. Since last week, prices have been coming down to N1,100, N1,040. As the prices are going down from the producers, Independent marketers will just add a little margin to sell to customers. That’s the most important thing,“ IPMAN spokesman, Ukadike, told The PUNCH.
Recall that a few weeks ago, the President of the Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, and petroleum marketers went up in arms after the former accused them of not patronising his refinery.
The businessman said he had over 500 million litres of petrol but the marketers were not coming to buy it due to their penchant for importing substandard petroleum products.
Reacting, the marketers recalled how many times they made attempts to lift petrol from the refinery without any positive response.
Both IPMAN and PETROAN stated that it was cheaper to import than to buy from Dangote refinery.
PETROAN categorically told our correspondent that it had reached an agreement with international traders to import petrol and sell at prices lower than that of Dangote and the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited.
However, the marketers made a U-turn and jettisoned the plan to import fuel into the country having agreed with the 650,000-capacity refinery.
28m litres supply
The Federal Government and the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited may have sealed a deal with the Dangote refinery for the supply of 28 million litres of the product to the local market daily.
According to a statement by the Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria, this was based on resolutions reached by operators.
The PUNCH learned that the agreement was finalised with stakeholders in the downstream sector on November 13.
With the resolution, it was learned that the NNPC, marketers, and other traders like depot owners will patronise the Dangote refinery by lifting the 28 million litres of petrol that it reportedly agreed to supply to the Nigerian market.
If implemented, experts said this means the $20bn refinery would prioritise the Nigerian market before exporting its product out of the country. It also means that marketers would consider the Dangote refinery before any form of fuel importation.
In the statement on Sunday, the leadership of the PETROAN disclosed that a resolution was held by stakeholders in the downstream sector, including the NNPC, the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, the President of Dangote Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote and marketers.
According to PETROAN, it was agreed that marketers can now lift all of Dangote’s petroleum products.
“PETROAN praises the management of the NMDPRA under the leadership of Engr Farouk Ahmed; the Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC, Mele Kyari; the President of the Dangote Refinery Alhaji Aliko Dangote; the leadership of MEMAN and DAPPMAN, PETROAN as well as IPMAN for reaching a resolution for oil marketing companies to buy all Dangote refinery products.
“The resolution includes Dangote refinery guaranteeing to sell an average of 28,000,000 litres of PMS daily for the next six months to oil marketers for domestic consumption in the Nigerian market,” the statement signed by the PETROAN spokesman, Joseph Obele, said.
According to Obele, the National President of PETROAN, Billy Harry, while speaking about the meeting, expressed optimism that the resolutions would bring succour to the downstream sector and improve the Nigerian economy.
The PETROAN national president had said the new deal was part of a resolution reached by stakeholders on the absorption of domestic petroleum product production by Nigerian oil marketing companies, including the NNPC.
Harry was quoted as stating that “the resolution will attract so many benefits which includes stability of petroleum products, control of price fluctuations, maintaining transparent communication, addressing conflicts proactively, and fostering collaboration among key stakeholders players.
On his part, Obele said those who signed the resolution include NMDPRA, NNPCL, Edo Refinery, Dangote Refinery, Waltersmith Refinery, Aradel Refinery, IPMAN, and PETROAN.
“The document indicates the availability of Aviation Turbine Kerosene and diesel from all domestic refineries would be provided to the NMDPRA for the same period of six months and must be subject to consideration for import as may be required,” Obele stated.
He said the meeting resolved that the NMDPRA must establish the basis for allocating import volumes to oil marketing companies on the assumptions of the aggregate of domestic refinery capacity with the understanding to cover shortfalls for respective marketers.
Obele stressed that according to the resolution, domestic refineries would provide fixed quantities and delivery windows, which must be a period of two months preceding the month of delivery to the customer and NMDPRA.
He added that individual oil marketing companies are to enter direct commercial agreements with domestic refineries on a willing-buyer, willing-seller basis.
A document sighted by our correspondent and titled, ‘Resolution on the absorption of Domestic Petroleum product production by Nigerian Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs), including NNPC Limited’, said:
“Further to the engagement between NNPCL, MEMAN and DAPPMAN of 13th November 2024 and subsequent revisions with the NMDPRA and other stakeholders, the following framework shall be executed:
“Dangote Refinery is to guarantee an average of 28,000,000 litres of PMS daily for the next six months subject to review as necessary. Availability of ATK and AGO from all domestic refineries shall be provided to the NMDPRA for the same period and be subject to consideration for import as may be required.
“NMDPRA to establish the basis for allocating import volumes to OMCS on the assumptions of the aggregate of domestic refinery capacity with understanding to cover shortfalls for respective marketers based on validated needs by the company and current national depots evacuation.”
The resolution added, “The domestic refineries are to provide fixed quantities and delivery windows two months preceding the month of delivery (M-2) to the customer and NMDPRA.
“Individual OMCs enter direct commercial agreements with domestic refineries on a willing buyer willing seller basis. AII NMDPRA fees (including MDGIF) to be included in every sales invoice issued by domestic refineries.”
NNPC denies deal
However, the NNPC has denied the resolution as presented by PETROAN.
In a chat with our correspondent on Sunday, the NNPC Chief Communications Officer, Olufemi Soneye, described the resolution as untrue
When asked if it was true that stakeholders met and agreed that Dangote should supply 28 million litres of petrol daily in the next six months, Soneye replied, “Not true”.
Similarly, the spokesperson of the Dangote Group, Anthony Chiejina, denied knowledge of the 28 million litres per day resolution.
“I don’t know. The PETROAN guy should do his job and stop chasing the media for publicity,” Chiejina replied.
Nevertheless, the PETROAN spokesman insisted that his claims were factual.
“Did they deny the document? It is real and factual,“ he stressed.
The South South's apex socio-political body Pan Niger delta Forum (PANDEF) has commended the President Bola Ahmed led federal governmen for not withholding statutory allocation due to Rivers state. In a media chat with news men at Uyo airport on Saturday, 23rd November, 2024, the new National Chairman of the body, AMBASSADOR GODKNOWS IGALI expressed delight that Mr PRESIDENT took such a statemanly decision which is a relief not only to the people of Rivers State but all of Nigeria.
He stated further that this decision will ensure that the ensure that the innocent citizens of RIVERS State will not suffer vicariously from the family feud between some of the political leaders of the state. He further expressed the hope that this decision will also aid 6 efforts by Obong Victor Attah led High level Peace and Reconciliation Committee recently constituted by PANDEF. The PANDEF leader again called on all political actors and leaders in Rivers State as well as youth and women groups to sheath the sword and follow the step taken by the federal government in de-escalating tension while the reconciliation effort by the elders of the region is ongoing.
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There are indications that the National Disciplinary Committee set up by the Peoples Democratic Party may not sanction erring members before the next convention of the party.
This was as the PDP Governors’ Forum gave a February 2025 deadline to the party to convene the National Executive Council meeting.
Sunday PUNCH gathered that the disciplinary committee, as advised by some leaders of the PDP, had resolved to toe the part of reconciliation and allow the next convention to ease out members perceived to have disobeyed extant rules of the party.
The main opposition party is expected to hold its convention where a new leadership will emerge ahead of the 2027 general elections.
According to some notable leaders of the PDP, both the reconciliation and disciplinary committees are working together and cautious to avoid any action that will further divide the party.
But a senior member of the PDP, who spoke on condition of anonymity, argued that the committee, headed by a former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Tom Ikimi, was designed to fail by some members of the National Working Committee of the party.
The source revealed that the formation of the committee was contrary to the PDP constitution.
He added that concerns earlier raised by some party leaders on the legality of the committee were ignored by the acting National Chairman of the party, Umar Damagum, and some other members of the NWC.
“The committee was intentionally formed this way to ensure its failure in disciplining certain members,” the chieftain said.
The PDP started grappling with internal strife before and after the 2023 presidential election.
Supporters of the party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, had called for the suspension of former Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, ex-governors Samuel Ortom (Benue), Okezie Ikpeazu (Abia), Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi (Enugu), Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, and a few others in their camp for perceived anti-party activities.
Meanwhile, Wike’s supporters also demanded disciplinary action against the former vice president and his allies, including former governors Sule Lamido (Jigawa) and Babangida Aliyu (Niger), among others.
In response, the PDP NWC set up a disciplinary committee on August 21, 2024, to allow members to file petitions from both the petitioners and the accused, and make recommendations to the National Executive Committee.
However, Sunday PUNCH learnt that apart from Ikimi’s October 5 statement assuring fair handling of complaints, there had been no further communication from the disciplinary panel, and the activities of the 26-member committee had remained unknown for over three months.
Speaking further, the senior PDP member stated that the National Disciplinary Committee, as recognised by the amended 2017 constitution of the party, was composed of seven members, not 26.
He explained that any sanction imposed by the Damagum-constituted NDC would be invalid, arguing that the committee was not recognised by the party’s constitution.
“You can’t build something on a flawed foundation. Since the composition of Ikimi’s committee does not follow these requirements, they can’t bark or bite. Any sanction they propose can be legally challenged and will be deemed null and void,” he added.
The source said majority of members of the NDC were loyalists of a particular leader of the party.
“Look at the membership—it is deliberately stacked with individuals loyal to a particular party leader who has taken control of the party structure. He has repeatedly said no one can suspend him, even daring the party to try. So, in addition to ignoring the PDP Constitution, they purposely filled the committee with his loyalists to ensure no harm came to their supporters.
“Lastly, since its inauguration three months ago, have you heard anything from this committee? A disciplinary committee that should be open, fair, and transparent is now operating in secrecy. I know many allegations have been made against several members, but has the committee invited anyone? Has any member of the party appeared before it? Given these constitutional issues and other factors, it’s clear that this committee is bound to fail,” the source added.
In a slight contradiction, two chieftains of the party told Sunday PUNCH in separate interviews that it was likely that the committee was ‘being cautious’ of the consequence of its action.
“Our party is already fragile; any attempt to sanction anybody will bring down the party. That is the consideration of the disciplinary committee. Even if the committee submits its report, the NWC will not act on it because of the need to avoid further crisis,” said one of the chieftains of the party.
The party leader insisted that the disciplinary committee prioritised the unity and progress of the party above the call to suspend or expel some erring members of the party.
The other chieftain, a former deputy spokesperson for the party, said the reconciliation committee, headed by a former governor of Osun State, Olagunsoye Oyinlola, was relating with every other committee, including the disciplinary panel, to ensure that their actions did not frustrate his efforts.
He said, “What we believe is that our convention is next year. Everything should be put on hold till that time. Naturally, the convention will ease out some members, including those known and unknown enemies of the party.
“Every agitation has been suspended till the convention. Those who want to remove Damagum have also stopped their move because of the convention. If the party sanctions anybody now, it will cause another crisis. Why not wait till the convention where everything will be sorted out? The committee is not likely to do anything before the convention; that is the understanding I have.”
Several attempts by our correspondent to reach the Chairman of the Committee, Ikimi, and the Secretary, Eyitayo Jegede (SAN), for responses were unsuccessful, as they neither answered calls nor replied to text messages.
NEC member sues for calm
Reacting, a member of the PDP NEC and Deputy National Youth Leader, Timothy Osadolor, stated that it would be insulting for anyone to believe that nothing good would come out of the committee given the calibre of individuals involved.
Osadolor, in an interview with our correspondent, urged party members to remain patient and avoid unnecessary speculation that could undermine the committee’s work.
He stated, “I think it would be insulting to a person like Chief Tom Ikimi, not only as a chief but also to his personal life and his official role as a public servant in this country.
“It is belittling to his status for anyone to think that nothing good will come out of the committee. It is also presumptuous to start assuming that a committee of elder statesmen will achieve nothing at the end of the day.
“We don’t want to encourage unnecessary speculation. The committee has its modus operandi that it is operating with. I may not be part of the committee, but I believe they are doing their job.
“That they have not declined their appointment to the committee and have not said anything about not fulfilling their role means they are doing something. So, to me, all party members should be patient and wait for the committee’s report.”
C’ttee working hard – Spokesman
Speaking on the matter, the National Publicity Secretary of the PDP, Debo Ologunagba, said it was inconceivable for anyone to believe that the committee was destined to fail.
Ologunagba, who noted that the PDP prioritised reconciliation over discipline, added that the NWC expanded the NDC’s membership to involve more people in the process.
He stated “This party is one of constitution and law. To answer you directly, it is inconceivable to think that the NWC, which holds the overall mandate to manage the party’s affairs, would deliberately set up a committee to fail.
“However, democracy is about the people and the constitution is meant to guide the affairs of the various organs of the party in managing it. In the wisdom of the NWC, it was determined that there is a need for more involvement in disciplinary procedures.
“Also, don’t forget that the goal of the PDP is not just about discipline. We focus more on reconciliation because a political party is about people. With people coming from different backgrounds, cultures, and interests, the capacity to reconcile these differences is what makes it a political party.
“As a party, we place more emphasis on reconciling people rather than on discipline. However, any party that lacks discipline is bound to fail, which is why these committees were set up.”
The publicity secretary stated that the committees were actively working and would submit their reports to the NWC once they were ready.
Convene NEC February – Govs
In another development, the Peoples Democratic Party Governors’ Forum has called on the PDP’s National Working Committee to organise a meeting of the party’s National Executive Committee by the first week of February.
The forum, chaired by the Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, in a communique issued after its meeting in Jos on Saturday, stated that the period from November to February would be dedicated to addressing the critical challenges facing the party.
Since Damagum assumed the role of acting National Chairman following Senator Iyorchia Ayu’s court removal, he has faced significant criticism from party leaders amid the ongoing crisis.
Many voices within the party are now calling for his resignation.
During the 98th NEC meeting on April 18, party leaders approved the formation of reconciliation and disciplinary committees, as well as the conduct of ward and state congresses.
They also tasked the North-Central caucus of the party with consulting on the issue of replacing the acting national chairman with a permanent one.
The 99th NEC meeting, originally set for August 15 was postponed to October 24, 2024, and then rescheduled for November 28, 2024, before it was postponed indefinitely.
In response, the forum emphasised its commitment to maintaining the unity and cohesion of the party, adding that Nigerians regard it as the best platform for democratic governance.
The communique stated in part, “The forum is strongly advising the NWC to call NEC by the first week of February 2025 to allow for elaborate consultations with critical stakeholders of the party. The period between November and February is to address the existential problems confronting the party, with a deliberate timeline of activities within the period under review to address issues of leadership and litigations confronting the party.”
The forum expressed sympathy for Nigerians suffering from the severe economic hardship allegedly imposed by the policies and decisions of the APC-led Federal Government.
It also urged President Bola Tinubu to promptly review both macroeconomic and fiscal policies to improve the welfare and well-being of Nigerians.
‘We’ll stabilise party’
Meanwhile, the Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, while hosting the PDP Governors’ Forum in Jos, said the reputation of the party would be restored as the party of choice for Nigerians.
“Even though this is primarily a meeting of governors, it is gratifying to see party leaders and stakeholders from various states filling this room to support the governors, as we strategise to ensure not only the stability of our party but also its ability to continue providing hope to Nigerians,” Mutfwang stated.
The Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum, Bala Mohammed, commended the party’s stakeholders for their support.
The Oyo State Governor and Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum, Seyi Makinde, also reassured PDP supporters of the governors’ determination to reform the party and restore its leadership role in Nigeria.
The Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has approved the formation of a 14-member State Assets Verification Committee to investigate the administration of former Governor Godwin Obaseki.
The committee, which will be inaugurated on Tuesday, 26 November 2024, at Government House in Benin City, will be chaired by Dr Ernest Afolabi Umakhihe. Anslem Ojezua will serve as deputy chairman, while Frank Edebor will act as secretary.
Other members of the committee include Kassim Afegbua, Patrick Ikhariale, Taiwo Akerele, Patrick Idiake, and Rasaq Bello-Osagie. Additional members are Fredrick Unopah, Abdallah Eugenia, Patrick Obahiagbon, Kenny Okojie, Lyndsey Tes-Sorae, and Abass Braimoh.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, explained the purpose of the committee.
He said, “In furtherance of the governor’s initiative to set the state on the path of development and accountable leadership, the establishment of a State Assets Verification Committee has become imperative.
“Despite repeated calls for a comprehensive database of the assets and liabilities of the previous administration, the Godwin Obaseki-led government provided only scanty and limited information.
“In line with the governor’s campaign promise to ensure probity, accountability, and transparency in governance, a committee comprising respected sons and daughters of Edo State has been constituted.”
The statement further noted that the committee would be inaugurated at the Festival Hall, Government House, Benin City, on Tuesday, 26 November 2024, at 1:00 pm prompt.
Background on the probe
A PUNCH report on 20 November indicated that the Edo State government might launch a probe into the previous administration after receiving reports from the permanent secretaries of various ministries in the state.
A government official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, stated that the governor was still being briefed by the permanent secretaries to assess the performance of the Obaseki-led administration.
The official said, “The governor is reviewing reports from the permanent secretaries of various ministries to evaluate the immediate past government. These findings will determine whether to initiate a probe and, if so, the scope of the investigation.
“However, under this administration, the people and their interests will always come first,” the official added.
[STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE] President Tinubu Writes National Assembly, Seeks Confirmation Of Lt. General Oluyede As Chief Of Army Staff
Admin![[STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE] President Tinubu Writes National Assembly, Seeks Confirmation Of Lt. General Oluyede As Chief Of Army Staff](/media/k2/items/cache/8bde47ca4e2e82935b2d3d86294bd4d6_XS.jpg)
President Bola Tinubu has sent a letter to the Senate seeking confirmation of Lieutenant General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede's appointment as the substantive Chief of Army Staff.
President Tinubu also despatched a similar letter to the House of Representatives.
In the letters addressed today to both the Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, President Tinubu seeks Oluyede’s confirmation in accordance with the provision of Section 218(2) of the 1999 Constitution as amended and Section 18(1) of the Armed Forces Act.
President Tinubu appointed Oluyede as the Acting Chief of Army Staff on October 30 following the illness of Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja.
General Lagbaja, however, died on 5 November.
President Tinubu is confident about the leadership qualities, professional integrity, and experience of Lt. General Oluyede to lead and inspire the army to ensure national security and stability.
Before he was appointed Acting Chief of Army Staff, Oluyede, a member of the 39th Regular Course, like his predecessor, served as the 56th Commander of the elite Infantry Corps of the Nigerian Army, based in Jaji, Kaduna.
He was commissioned a second lieutenant in 1992, effective from 1987. He rose to Major-General in September 2020.
Since his commissioning as an officer, Oluyede has held many command positions. He was Platoon Commander and adjutant at 65 Battalion, Company Commander at 177 Guards Battalion, Staff Officer in the Guards Brigade, and Commandant of the Amphibious Training School.
General Oluyede participated in several operations, including the Economic Community of West African States Monitoring Group (ECOMOG) Mission in Liberia, Operation HARMONY IV in Bakassi, and Operation HADIN KAI in the North East theatre of operations, where he commanded 27 Task Force Brigade.
For his meritorious service in various fields of operations, he has earned many honours, including the Corps Medal of Honour, the Grand Service Star, Passing the Staff Course, and Membership in the National Institute.
Others are the Field Command Medal, the Field Command Medal of Honour, and the Field Training Medal.
Oluyede also received the coveted Chief of Army Staff Commendation Award.
He is married and has three children.
Bayo Onanuga
Special Adviser to the President
(Information & Strategy)
The federal government has disclosed that the monthly funds from the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) would no longer be paid to the Rivers State government.
This was confirmed by the spokesperson of the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation, Bawa Mokwa.
Mokwa said the decision is in compliance with a court order on the political situation in Rivers State.
Though the spokesperson of the AGF’s office confirmed that no state of the federation had been paid the FAAC revenue for the month of October, the government would respect the court order as it pertains to Rivers State.
“What I got is that the October 2024 FAAC has not been distributed yet. However, the Federal Government will obey the court order on the matter of Rivers State allocation,” Daily Post quoted him to have said.
The development is coming amidst the faceoff between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor who is now the Minister of Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.
Naija News recalls that a court had ordered the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the federal government to stop the payment of FAAC revenue to Rivers State until Governor Fubara represents the state’s budget to the House of Assembly recognized by the law.
The ruling by Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Abuja Federal High Court also prohibited the CBN, the Accountant-General of the Federation, Zenith Bank, and Access Bank from granting Fubara access to funds from the Consolidated Revenue and Federation Account.