Labour Party governorship candidate in the November 11 governorship election in Bayelsa, Mr Udengs Eradiri, has unveiled his People, Education, Agriculture and Power manifesto in Yenagoa.
Eradiri, 47, an engineer told newsmen at his campaign secretariat on Thursday in Yenagoa, that he was compelled to join the governorship race to reverse the gross neglect of the developmental needs of the people of Bayelsa, who earned one of the highest revenue but ranked the second poorest in the federation.
According to Eradiri, a former commissioner for youths and later environment in the state, said it was both an irony and contradiction that the development index of Bayelsa is not commensurate with its monthly revenue from the federation account.
“I am driven by the passion to transform the state of Bayelsa and make life more meaningful for the people whose level of poverty is alarming and glaring due to the neglect of governance by the political class.
“When you compare Bayelsa to Ebonyi and Gombe States created the same day and with less than 10 per cent of the monthly revenue that accrues to Bayelsa, you will be amazed and ask why Bayelsa is so backward.
“So I do not want to be part of those complaining and that is why I joined the race on the platform of Labour Party to offer my services and youthful energy in a social contract with the people in our PEAP manifesto.
“Even though I am young, I have garnered adequate experience and developed myself enough to govern and improve the living conditions of the people by efficiently deploying public funds that accrue to Bayelsa.
“I trained as a Production Engineer and have a thriving engineering services firm with over 40 staff. I have served as Commissioner in Bayelsa in addition to being a former Secretary and President of Ijaw Youths Council,” Eradiri said.
The LP candidate noted that he also served as Special Assistant on Youth Matters to the Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission, a position that further prepared him for the governorship.
In the PEAP manifesto, he said that following the commencement of campaigns by the timetable from the Independent National Electoral Commission, he would, in the coming days, take the programme to the people.
Eradiri pledged to provide social amenities, including healthcare and education, boost human capacity development, and prioritise infrastructure and job opportunities.
According to him, the agricultural potential of the state in fishery, rice, sugarcane, and other crops where Bayelsa has comparative advantages would be harnessed to provide raw materials for industries and processed for export.
Eradiri also promised to leverage the recent inclusion of power generation into the concurrent legislative list to use the abundant gas deposits across the state for industries and power generation, if elected.
Besides, he pledged to exploit the ongoing road construction in various communities for economic gains by encouraging businesses around the road corridor.
Eradiri expressed optimism that the youths and impoverished people of Bayelsa would embrace his manifesto and vote massively to enable him to win the election, adding that the people are sick and tired of the old ways of doing things.
According to him, the recent general election’s outcome has sent a message of hope that the power of the people can dismantle established structures.
He however urged INEC to offer a level playing ground to all political parties in the poll.
(NAN)
President Bola Tinubu says he still holds a Nigerian passport, hence the need to make the country a better place for all.
Tinubu spoke on Thursday at the palace of Adedotun Gbadebo, the Alake of Egbaland, in Ogun state.
The president reiterated his commitment to bringing positive change to the country.
He said with the prayers and support of all, Nigeria will be great.
“What I ask for is prayers that will help the country and be determined to help the country, to steer the ship of the nation, build a positive team for the country and deliver on all promises we made,” he said.
“The hope is recharged, it is here. That hope will never fade. I am here still making that pledge of the campaign promise.
“Let’s be united, purposeful, no distractions. We will arrive at a positive destination for this country.
“It is only in our hands to make history and I promise that by the grace of God Almighty, we shall reap the fruits of our labour.
“Nigeria will see positive changes as we move along.”
He implored Nigerians to bear with him and go through recent policy changes which he described as “baby steps of pain”.
“Just go through these baby steps of pain. Me too, I’m taking baby steps as the president. Not marching in a hurry. Being ready to listen, maintain an open door policy. Let the freedom flow, let confidence return to Nigeria,” Tinubu said.
“This country is the only country we have. I’ve been a refugee. I know what it means to be a refugee in another country and my green-back passport is what I still have now. I know what it is.
“So, please, we need your prayers, support, interventions to get our people’s change of mind so that the economy, prosperity of this country being opened up will affect everyone of you positively.”
Shortly after Tinubu was declared president-elect, there were allegations that he is of dual nationality.
The allegations generated mixed reactions on social media and litigations in the courts.
[TheCable]
President Bola Tinubu yesterday urged Nigerians to bear with the discomfort arising from his reforms, saying that it is temporary.
He said ‘Renewed Hope’, which emphasizes his campaign promises, will be faithfully implemented and bring relieve to the masses.
President Tinubu reiterated his determination to turn the country around during his thank you visit to Ogun State.
At the palaces of the Awujale Oba Sikiru Adetona, Alake of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Gbadebo, he admonished Nigerians to demonstrate the virtue of good citizenship by cooperating with his reform-driven administration.
Eminent Nigerians including business mogul Dr. Mike Adeniyi Adenuga, Chairman of Globacom Nigeria Limited, former Ogun States Governor Olusegun Osoba, Gbenga Daniel and former Deputy Governor Adegbenga Kaka, were among dignitaries that received him at Ijebu-Ode.
The President, who flew in chopper from Lagos, was accompanied by National Security Adviser (NSA) Nuhu Ribadu.
President Tinubu also defended his victory, recalling that during the February 25 poll, he triumphed over the ineffective cashless policy of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).
The President, who recalled that he had been a refugee in the past, said Nigerians should be proud of their citizenship.
According to a statement by his Special Adviser on Special Duties, Communication and Strategy, Mr Dele Alake, the President, who promised to fulfill his promises, appealed for prayers from the residents of Ogun State to ensure progress and stability in the country.
He said: “I have redeemed my pledge that I will come back with victory and the crown.
“The hope is recharged; the hope is here. That hope will never fail. That hope will recharge your lives in a positive manner.
“By the grace of Almighty God, we shall reap the fruits of our labour, Nigeria will see positive change, just endure these baby steps of pain.
“This country is the only one we have. I have been a refugee and I know what it means to be a refugee and my green passport is what I still have now.”
At Awujale’s palace, President Tinubu said he was optimistic about victory in the last election, despite the ineffective cashless policy implemented by the CBN.
Reflecting on the challenges in the build-up to the poll, the President recounted his concerns about the confiscation of funds and the failure of the cashless policy, and how he had previously sought wisdom and guidance from Oba Adetona during his visit to the palace.
The President said he had invoked the spirits of freedom and determination, symbolised by ”Baba Emilokan”, to overcome the obstacles.
Tinubu said: “Our monies were confiscated. The cashless policy didn’t work. It was terrible then. I realised that I came to Ogun State to invoke the spirit of freedom, which we are noted for.
“I invoked that spirit twice. The spirit of Baba Emilokan. That’s Baba. Being blunt, being decisive, that’s him, he will tell you. The second spirit is that money or no money, we will do the election and we will win.”
President Tinubu, who maintained that these spirits had been the driving force behind his service, thanked Oba Adetona, other monarchs, elected officials, particularly his ‘personal friend’, Gbenga Daniel, the senator representing Ogun East, for their loyalty and commitment during those crucial times.
Turning to Oba Adetona, Tinubu described his visit to Ijebu-Ode as a homecoming.
“The way you have taken me, the way you have responded to me, all I can say is thank you. May you live long and may you witness a prosperous Nigeria.”
The president also acknowledged the presence of Globacom Chairman, Chief Mike Adenuga, hailing his contributions to the economy.
In Abeokuta, President Tinubu thanked Oba Gbadebo, describing him as a great leader.
In separate remarks at Ijebu-Ode and Abeokuta, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun thanked the President for the visit, describing him as a man of uncommon grace and a living testimony of resilience.
Noting that Tinubu is a visionary, the governor said his pronouncement in the first few weeks in office have defined that he was prepared and qualified for office.
Oba Adetona and Oba Gbadebo, in separate remarks in their palaces, commended President Tinubu for his leadership, acknowledging him as an instrument of God chosen to rectify past shortcomings.
They offered prayers for the President’s guidance and good health, urging Nigerians to support his administration.
Oba Babatunde Ajayi, the Akaraigbo of Remoland, who commended the President for hitting the ground running, said that the people needed urgent palliatives to mitigate the effects of the current challenges.
He lauded the wise decisions so far taken by the administration, reminding the President of his promise to bring development to Remo.
Oba Ajayi added: “I remember when you came to the palace and all we said is our dream is for you to go and win the primaries, and that once you win the primaries, I’m sure that God will take us there. I’m glad that God took us there.
“I want to remind you of what you said when you came to Remo. You said with the proximity of Shagamu to Lagos, you were surprised at the level of development in Remo. This is the time Mr President to walk that talk.”
The Plateau State Government yesterday said it had approached United Bank for Africa (UBA), not Jaiz Bank, for a N15 billion loan.
It explained that the loan would be used to settle the state’s N11.5 billion salary backlog allegedly accumulated by the previous administration.
The government added that the balance would be used to procure fertilizer for farmers for the current farming season.
It said the decision followed the Mutfwang administration’s desire to fulfil its campaign promises to civil servants and farmers.
The government in a statement issued in Jos by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Legislative Duties, Nuhu Abok, urged the public to disregard social media reports claiming that the state government was already processing such a loan from Jaiz Bank.
“The loan being processed is to be used to settle the N11.5 billion salary backlog as accumulated by the previous administration and the rest will be used for procurement of fertilizer for farmers,” Abok said.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio has said he regretted contesting against President Bola Tinubu during the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential primary.
Akpabio stated that he and other presidential aspirants would not have contested the APC presidential ticket if they had known about his plan to move the country forward sooner.
The former Governor of Akwa Ibom State noted that Lagos had been a development model for states in Nigeria, adding that the man that did the framework can also do it for Nigeria.
Speaking on Thursday at a reception in Tinubu’s honour by the Lagos state government, the Senate President said the president’s few decisions catalyzed the country’s growth.
The former Minister of Niger Delta reiterated his promise to work with the executive arm of the government to ensure that Nigerians enjoy the dividends of democracy.
He said: “With what the president has done in Lagos, we are assured that Nigeria is in safe hands.
“We didn’t know this was the plan you had for the country; we wouldn’t have contested with you at the party primaries.
“These few decisions you have taken have served as a catalyst for the country’s development.”
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has submitted that the technical glitch which affected the upload of the 2023 presidential election result on its Result Viewing Portal (IReV) should not be used to judge the entire election.
This is as the electoral body denied wasting taxpayers’ money due to the inability to upload results real-time.
INEC spokesman, Festus Okoye made the submission on Thursday night during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today where he spoke on the glitches experienced during the February 25 presidential and National Assembly polls.
He explained that the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) was successfully used for voter accreditation, and result upload for the polls in the other elections apart from the presidential.
“We are only talking about result upload for the presidential election only. It is not true or correct to insinuate even remotely that taxpayers’ money was wasted, and the machine did not work,” Okoye said.
Speaking further, Okoye said Nigerians should not judge INEC’s performance in the 2023 polls simply based on the challenge experienced in the upload of the presidential election results to its viewing portal.
“It is not fair to judge the entire performance of the commission on the basis of a glitch in the result upload for the presidential election,” he said.
He added that political parties contesting the outcome of the election should not only rely on electronically uploaded results as they all had agents at the various polling units who supervised the process.
“Almost all the political parties nominated and got accredited at least over 170,000 polling agents. What that means is that they had primary evidence of the results from the polling units.
“It is those results from the polling units, together with the BVAS as a machine itself that goes to the collation centre. So, it is not true for a political party to rely only on result upload in order to get the evidence with which it wants to prosecute its case in court,” he added.
Be ready to work with me to fix the economy, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu told governors in Lagos yesterday.
He promised to operate an open-door policy.
The President was busy as a bee on the 30th day of his administration.
He started with whistle-stop visits to two leading traditional rulers in Ogun State – the Awujale of Ijebuland Octogenarian Oba Sikiru Adetona in Ijebu Ode and the Alake of Egbaland Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo in Abeokuta – to say thank you.
On his return to Lagos, he attended a grand reception organised by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu at the Government House in Marina.
Governors across party lines, All Progressives Congress (APC) leaders, and the leadership of the National Assembly, among others, attended the event.
Another major highlight of the reception was the joint presentation of a gift to the President, who is the first Lagos State Governor of the fourth republic, by his three successors Babatunde Fashola, Akinwunmi Ambode and Sanwo-Olu.
It was the first time Ambode was seen with Tinubu since he left office in 2015.
He said: “I promise to work with the governors through an open door policy that will return Nigeria from the bricks to a resilient economy. Be ready you governors.
“I know what I’m going to do from Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and so on, and I want us to be partners so that we can rescue our country and make it whole again.”
President Tinubu also thanked party members for keeping faith in him during the long and tortuous journey to the presidency.
He added: “I’m very grateful. I thank my Vice President. You shall receive the joy of giving, the joy of perseverance, joy of resilience and endurance. You will see the reward for this country; it’s going to prosper and be prosperous.
“I say thank you to all of you and I appreciate tonight. I will continue to appreciate more when we work together to dissect the possible economic prosperity of our nation in favour of our children.
“I’m also glad to see former Governor Akinwunmi Ambode. Thank you, Akin. God bless you all.”
Speaking on behalf of NGF, AbdulRazaq, pledged that state chief executives, regardless of party affiliations, were ready to cooperate and work with the President to ensure the country becomes better and safer for all citizens.
He said: “NGF is excited that both the President and Vice President are alumni of the Governors’ Forum. We are committed to work with a federalist who worked to get things done in a truly federal system. We reiterate our support for a renewed hope agenda regardless of our parties.”
The APC governors at the reception were led by Progressives Governors Forum (PGF) Chairman Hope Uzodimma (Imo).
Bayelsa State Governor Duoye Diri represented the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Abia State Governor Alex Otti represented the Labour Party (LP).
Other governors were Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), Abdullahi Sule (Nasarrawa), Babagana Zulum (Borno), Fr. Hyacinth Alia (Benue), Bassey Otu (Cross River), Yahaya Bello (Kogi) and Acting Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa (Ondo).
Senate President Godswill Akpabio reaffirmed the National Assembly’s resolve to work harmoniously with the President, telling him: “The National Assembly belongs to you, and all Nigerians.”
Governor Sanwo-Olu told Tinubu: “Lagos is proud of you”. He also expressed confidence in the president’s ability to offer good leadership.
He said: “I’m sure you will all agree that since he took his oath of office as the president of the largest black nation, we have seen uncommon pronouncement, uncommon audacity of change, a renewed hope that he promised us.
“I’m also proud of him to say that this is a tenure that begins with a promise of change and, within a short time, we are beginning to see that change.
“Mr President, your ascension to the seat was greeted with great war and expectations. We believed in you as a leader, a builder of men, talents, and a custodian of the best ideas of governance.
“I’m happy to say that indeed you are our Grand Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces and President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“You’ve catalysed a series of economic interventions, and policy changes, and you have sown the seed of future prosperity.
“Your administration has rekindled the attitude of resilience and integrity among fellow Nigerians.
“We are confident that under your leadership, Nigeria will reach unprecedented heights.
“We stand in solidarity with you in bringing your great vision for Nigeria to life, and we will join hands with the president to rebuild Nigeria.”
Former Minister of Works and Housing Babatunde Fashola also reiterated the need to support the president to succeed.
“Nigeria’s presidency is not a one-man job. He should be supported to succeed.
“Six of his policies in Lagos, as governor, have stood the test of time and have been adopted in other states and so I urge the governors to support policies that will be introduced by the president.”
Other dignitaries at the event include First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, House of Representatives Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, Lagos State Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat, former Kano State Abdullahi Ganduje and former Lagos Deputy Governor Femi Pedro.
The others are the APC National Chairman Abdullahi Adamu, National Secretary Iyiola Omisore, State Chairman Cornelius Ojelabi, Chairman of Nigeria Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, Chief of Staff to the President Femi Gbajabiamila, and members of the Governance Advisory Council (GAC).
Business leaders were led by Alhaji Aliko Dangote and Alhaji Rasak Okoya. Royal fathers of Awori extraction were also present at the reception.
Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma will today meet with his Lagos State counterpart, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, over the demolition of some plazas at the Alaba International Market in Ojo.
Uzodimma, who chairs the Progressives Governors’ Forum, an umbrella body of governors elected on the All Progressives Congress(APC) platform, was delegated by political and private sector leaders from the Southeast to carry out the task.
The leaders took the decision during their meeting at the Ikoyi, Lagos residence of billionaire businessman and chairman, Chikason Group., Chika Okafor.
At the meeting, they called for a diplomatic solution to the demolitions at the international market.
Enugu State Governor Peter Mba; Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Benjamin Kalu; former President, Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria Sam Ohuabunwa, Sanwo-Olu’s Special Adviser on Drainage, Joe Igbokwe and Representative of the Igbo Intelligentsia Forum, Chris Maduka were among those at the parley.
He said: “The Igbo have courage. Our work is to unite the people for a peaceful and prosperous Nigeria. The Igbo have to be innovative. I will meet with Lagos Governor tomorrow (today) to find the ways out of the issues at hand.”
Also, Mba said the Igbo have to promote private-sector-led enterprises. He added that the Southeast governors were already discussing a common market for the region.
One of the speakers, Chief Ben Obi, said the Igbo should begin to build bridges and contribute more to a stable government.
He said: “We are not enemies of the government in power. The elections are over, and now is the time to work together and support the government in power. There is also a need to canvass for Igbo rights as good citizens of Nigeria”.
While another speaker, Chief Jerry Chukwueke, called for the restoration of normalcy between the Alaba Market Traders and the government of Lagos State, Maduka, said what was happening to the Igbo in Lagos was historical.
He suggested that it should be resolved diplomatically.
“Let us remind the Igbos that what is happening is historical, and symbolic. What we are seeking is a diplomatic solution,” Maduka said.
he Independent Petroleum Marketers of Nigeria (IPMAN) yesterday cautioned the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) against further increase in petrol price.
Its National Vice-President Abubakar Maigadi warned that further increases would not favour the market especially now that the demand for the product has dropped.
He said: “We are waiting for the new consignment of petrol for July to come before we can know what NNPCL plans.
“But it is not good for there to be a change of price in July. This is just our advice. It will not augur well when they change the price. We are advising NNPCL not to change the price.”
But IPMAN’s National Operations Controller, Mike Osatuyi, described the current petrol prices as transitional.
Osatuyi said the prices may rise to N700 in some parts of the country beginning tomorrow.
He said: “The petrol being sold now is old stock- the ones on the high sea, tanks and filling stations- they are all stocks ordered before the subsidy removal.
“Right now, nobody has imported petrol. People who want to import have to go and source for Forex on their own. We are trying to access funds and place orders for the product. Delivery cannot be earlier than 28 days after an order.”
On why prices may hit N700 per litre, Osatuyi said: “With a current exchange rate standing at N770 to a dollar today, if you now configure that into the template of $70 a barrel of crude, what do you think that will translate to? A 45, 000-litre tanker of petrol now comes at N23 million.
“The current price of petrol we are buying is a ‘’transition price’. We are not even talking about the VAT (Value Added Tax) that has been gazetted on all petroleum products. So, once that is affected, then it has to be added to the litre price. I don’t want to create panic that’s why I left it at N700.
“Even the NNPCL price per litre will still increase because of the new forex rate at which the firm will import petrol.
“Remember that NNPCL is now operating as a company; it won’t enjoy crude oil swap deals again; it will buy forex at the same price as us. There is no more arbitrage in the sector. It is now how each marketer is able to drive his efficiency that will bring down his cost and the quality of service rendered.”
President Bola Tinubu explained yesterday that petrol subsidy was removed to stop the bleeding of Nigeria’s economy.
He added that it was expedient for the action to be taken to re-engineer the control and management of the nation’s resources.
He spoke at a reception for him at the State House in Marina, Lagos to celebrate Eid-el Kabir.
The President, at the reception hosted by Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, said Nigeria could no longer be neighbouring countries’ Father Christmas while its economy bleeds.
His words: “We had no choice but to re-engineer the effectiveness of control and management of our resources to meet the obligation of our oath. I’m standing here, assuring you that I will not relent in working with available resources to cater for Nigerians.
“We can afford to be Father Christmas to the neighbouring countries, but we can’t just afford a petroleum subsidy and a sinking hole around the foreign exchange.
“Yes, I could have said I want a share of my benefits and participate in the habit, but God forbid. That is not why you elected me. You choose me to bring about necessary changes that will benefit not only you, but your grandchildren and our tomorrow.
“We have just started. We have to re-engineer the financial system of the country and see that economic planning and the budgetary process is transparent enough to cater for Nigerians.”
Edo PDP chair lauds bold decisions
Also yesterday, Chairman of local chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State, Dr. Tony Aziegbemi, commended the President for taken bold decisions to stop subsidy payment and unify naira exchange rates.
He noted that the policies of the All Progressives Congress’ (APC)-led administration would soon give Nigeria more than N2 trillion.
Aziegbemi, an economist, told reporters in Benin that the steps taken by the President were the best way to go for the country.
The PDP chieftain however said that many Nigerians were worried about the nature of palliatives being planned by the Federal Government to cushion the effects of the policies.
He advised the President to shut the door of his government against people of questionable character, urging him to take a cue from the some PDP members who now throw mud at the party.
According to him, members of G-34 that formed the PDP in 1998 would be turning in their graves because of what some politicians do to the party.
He listed some of the founding members (now deceased) Alhaji Adamu Ciroma, Dr. Alex Ekueme and Chief Tony Anenih, among others.
Former President Muhammadu Buhari has left his hometown in Daura, Katsina State, his spokesman, Garba Shehu disclosed on Thursday.
Buhari had said he was eager to retire to his farm in Daura, upon the expiration of his second term in office.
Daily Trust reports that Buhari shortly after he handed over power to President Bola Tinubu on May 29 in Abuja, left the nation’s capital for his hometown.
A durbar was organised to welcome him back home and the president thanked his people for the reception.
However, on Tuesday, pictures of the ex-President and his successor, President Bola Tinubu, in London, circulated widely.
The duo held a private meeting but the outcome was not disclosed.
However, there were rumours that the meeting was about Buhari getting a soft landing for his appointees, some of whom are being probed by the current administration.
But in a statement on Thursday, Shehu described the report as fake news, saying no one attended the meeting aside from the two leaders.
Shehu also hinted that the former President had left Daura, but he did not disclose his destination.
He said Buhari had “moved out to a more distant place,” because he could not find the quietness he wished for, as
“visitors troop in morning, day and night.”
Shehu said “He chose to go home in Daura hoping to find the type of quiet he wished for himself but realizing that this was not the case, visitors trooping in morning, day and night, he moved out to a more distant place.
“It remains his wish that he be allowed to have his needed rest, and for the Tinubu administration to have the right atmosphere to work on the realisation of the promises they made.”
On Sallah day, buhari Sallau, one of the ex-president’s aides, released pictures of Buhari with his family members.
It is unclear where the pictures were taken.
In April, Buhari vowed to relocate to the neighbouring country, Niger Republic, if there’s any distraction in Daura.
“If they make any noise to disturb me in Daura, I will leave for the Niger Republic.”
“I deliberately arranged to be as far away as possible. I got what I wanted and will quietly retire to my hometown,” he reportedly said.
More...
Authorities of the Nigerian Police Force have thrown more light on the merits of the decision by the Acting Inspector General of Police, Mr Olukayode Egbetokun to withdraw Mobile Policemen attached to VIPs and set up a Special Intervention Squad for quick and rapid response to tackle criminality across the country.
According to the Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, ‘The incessant abuse of police officers attached to certain individuals and companies on guard or escort duty has become worrisome and detestable, particularly to the present leadership
“The decision to withdraw PMF personnel from VIPs and establish a Special Intervention Squad is aimed at ensuring a more inclusive and effective security framework that caters to the needs of all Nigerians rather than a select few.
“This strategic shift in approach recognizes the importance of equal access to security services for all citizens and seeks to enhance the overall safety and well-being of the Nigerian populace”.
The FPRO gave the explanation In a statement titled ‘Proposed Withdrawal of PMF Personnel from VIPs,
Establishmentbof Special Interventiom Squad: A Workable and Unudual Process’.
He said, “The appointment of Acting Inspector-General of Police, Ag. IGP Olukayode Adeolu Egbetokun has definitely changed the rhythm of Police tradition most especially on certain administrative and operational engagements which will surely trigger a paradigm shift for the betterment of our internal security architecture.
“In his maiden speech, Ag. IGP Egbetokun christened himself a lion and tiger ready to devour criminals in Nigeria, and he matched his words with actions by rolling out his strategic action plans including the establishment of a Special Intervention Squad that will be deployed to the 36 states of the federation including the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, and other areas prone to terrorists attacks.
‘It has however become pertinent to critically analyze the recent developments regarding the proposed withdrawal of Police Mobile Force (PMF) personnel from Very Important Persons (VIPs) to form the Special Intervention Squad announced by the Acting Inspector General of Police.
“One will ordinarily think Egbetokun’s pronouncement is as usual, like preceding announcements by previous IGP’s, which never saw the light of the day, or were never complied with by officers and men on the field.
“It is imperative to state categorically that this policy is not a regular procedure as the Ag. IGP’s approach includes the setting up of a committee to guide the process and the exploration of the use of supernumerary officers, in line with the provisions of Sections 23 to 25 of the Police Act 2020.
“The incessant abuse of police officers attached to certain individuals and companies on guard or escort duty has become worrisome and detestable, particularly to the present leadership.
“This necessitates the drive to not only deploy these officers for strategic police assignments, but to also sanitize the police, review the process and deployment of men on VIP guards, in order to restore the dignity of the personnel in particular, and the NPF in general.
“The decision to withdraw PMF personnel from VIPs and establish a Special Intervention Squad is aimed at ensuring a more inclusive and effective security framework that caters to the needs of all Nigerians rather than a select few.
‘This strategic shift in approach recognizes the importance of equal access to security services for all citizens and seeks to enhance the overall safety and well-being of the Nigerian populace.
“The current leadership possesses the requisite zeal to enforce the directive and monitor the withdrawal process, ensuring it is seamless while gradually moving away from individual protection to collective general social safety
“By establishing a committee to guide the process headed by the Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of operations, the IGP is demonstrating a commitment to transparency, accountability, and actualization of the policy for improved public safety.
‘This committee will oversee the implementation of the withdrawal process and ensure a smooth transition while addressing any concerns or challenges that may arise.
“It will work in close collaboration with relevant stakeholders, including VIPs, to ensure that the interests and security requirements of all concerned are duly considered.
‘Furthermore, the exploration of the use of supernumerary officers aligns with the provisions of Sections 23 to 25 of the Police Act 2020.
“This legal framework allows VIPs to employ individuals for their security and have them trained by the police as supernumerary officers.
“This approach not only provides an opportunity for VIPs to have dedicated security personnel but also ensures that these individuals receive proper training and adhere to professional standards set by the police.
“The introduction of a Special Intervention Squad will further enhance the capacity of the Police Force to respond swiftly and effectively to emerging security challenges across the country.
‘This specialized unit will be adequately equipped and trained to handle critical situations and provide rapid assistance where needed.
“The focus on establishing this squad demonstrates the IGP’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all Nigerians.
“In conclusion, the proposed withdrawal of PMF personnel from VIPs and the establishment of a Special Intervention Squad by the IGP represent a significant departure from previous approaches.
“The involvement of a guiding committee and the exploration of supernumerary officers under the provisions of the Police Act 2020 ensure that the process will be inclusive, transparent, and effective.
“This strategic shift aims to create a security framework that caters to the needs of all Nigerians, promoting equal access to protection and fostering a safer environment for the entire nation.”
A 38-year-old man, Oguntunde Ismaila, has been arrested after he used a toy gun to rob residents of Unilag Estate in the Magodo area of Lagos.
The suspect, along with three others, allegedly invaded the estate in the wee hours of Sallah day armed with items that looked like guns and injured one of the guards at the gate before they gained entry into the estate on Science Road.
Confirming the incident, the Lagos State police spokesman, Benjamin Hundeyin, said that at about 4am, policemen from Isheri Division received a call that armed robbers had invaded the estate and that they mobilised to the scene and arrested one Oguntunde Ismaila Ajibade.
He said, “After being searched, the following items were recovered from him: an improvised gun, one axe, a torchlight, a toy ammunition magazine and a black pullover.
“Prior to the arrival of the police, the gang succeeded in inflicting injuries on one of the guards at the estate’s gate.
“Suspect and exhibits are presently in police custody and efforts are in progress to arrest his fleeing accomplices.”
The Federal Government has so far saved about N400bn as a result of the removal of subsidy on Premium Motor Spirit, popularly called petrol, since May 31, 2023, when the initiative was officially implemented, oil marketers stated on Thursday.
Also, the oil dealers stated that there was a high possibility for the cost of petrol to rise in July, going by the recent floating of the naira against the United States dollar by the Federal Government.
The Central Bank of Nigeria unified the country’s exchange rates into the Investors and Exporters window on June 14, 2023, allowing market forces to determine the exchange rate.
Operators in the downstream oil sector told our correspondent on Tuesday that going by the revelation of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limted as regards the amount being spent previously on subsidy every month, Nigeria had now saved hundreds of billions after halting the subsidy regime in May.
“Right now they (the government) are making money. At least with this removal of subsidy, the government has racked in hundreds of billions, whether in naira or dollar. This is because every month we know how much they lose before,” the National President, Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria, Chinedu Okonkwo, stated.
Okonkwo told our correspondent that marketers had been told how much the NNPCL was spending on subsidy monthly, referring to the comments of the firm’s Group Chief Executive Officer, Mele Kyari, during a meeting with oil sector operators in February.
At the meeting, Kyari had said, “Today, by law and the provisions of the Appropriation Act, there is a subsidy on the supply of petroleum products, particularly PMS imports into our country. In current data terms, three days ago, the landing cost was around N315/litre.
“Our customers are here; we are transferring to each of them at N113/litre. That means there is a difference of close to N202 for every litre of PMS we import into this country. In computation, N202 multiplied by 66.5 million litres, multiplied by 30 will give you over N400bn of subsidy every month.”
Commenting on petrol imports by independent marketers, Okonkwo stated that the oil dealers were holding meetings about this.
“We are holding meetings with a lot of people who are interested in commencing PMS imports. We are not resting on our oars about this,” the IPMAN president stated.
Although Okonkwo admitted that petrol price would rise in response to forex rates, he argued that the removal of subsidy would not only lead to a continuous increase in PMS cost.
“When there is deregulation and no subsidy, the price of petrol would either go up or come down. If you want to profiteer, those who bring in and sell at cheaper rates would put you out of business.
“So the market fundamentals will determine the pricing and capping. Therefore the floating of the naira at this time that Nigeria is beginning to make savings is not going to be a fixed thing,” he stated.
The IPMAN president added, “The exchange rate will also move up or down depending on how we manage our crude oil, which is our foreign exchange earner. By the time we begin to meet our OPEC quota and other areas of generating foreign exchange, the naira will begin to firm up.
“And this will result in cheaper fuel. So we should not be thinking that the cost of fuel will continue to rise. The floating of the naira is good because at the previous level, you only access the dollar at the official rate based on who you know.”
On his part, the President, Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria, Billy Gillis-Harry, told our correspondent that the cost of PMS would respond to the exchange rate, as the product would rise in price going by the current forex rate.
“So long as the exchange rate is high, the cost of petrol will be high. But these are early days and the expectation with the President Bola Tinubu-led government is that the exchange rate will be getting lower. So we will get there,” he stated.
On plans by his group to start importing petrol, he said, “PETROAN is already working on the import licence approval for petrol, because it has to be approved before you can import. We are doing this, while we still negotiate with the government on the process of getting the refineries to work.”
Labour speaks
Meanwhile, the organised Labour has called on Nigerians to exercise patience while it continues to negotiate with the representatives of the Federal Government following the removal of subsidy on Premium Motor Spirit which has continued to cause hardship to Nigerians.
The PUNCH reports that since the removal of the subsidy on PMS, there has been a spike in cost of living conditions, with oil marketers projecting a N700/per liter cost of fuel by July 2023.
Speaking with our correspondent on Thursday, the National vice-President of the Trade Union Congress and a representative of the organised labour interfacing with the government, Tommy Etim, said labour unions were constantly engaging the government to ensure that favorable palliatives are distributed to Nigerians.
“ Nigeria has come of age and whatever happens Nigerians especially workers should exercise patience until the outcome of the meetings so that we can arrive at a collective bargaining agreement that will be for the interest of Nigerians and Nigerian workers.
“Whatever we are facing now is a collective sacrifice and there is hope that we will not allow the pressure for those who have eaten fat on the so called subsidy to frustrate our negotiations. Let Nigerians see whatever is happening as a collective sacrifice that all Nigerians will be happy.”
New Service Chiefs: Over 100 Generals, Rear Admirals, Air Vice Marshals asked to voluntarily retire
Admin- gives Monday deadline
A little over 100 Generals in the Armed Forces of Nigeria comprising Major Generals, Brigadiers General and some Colonels have been told to proceed on retirement by the military authorities.
The signal which gave July 3, 2023, as the deadline for the officers to retire from the service, cuts across the Army, Navy and Air Force and follows the appointment of new service chiefs by President Bola Tinubu.
Those given the deadline to retire voluntarily include officers of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) Regular Courses 38, 37, and 36 and below.
The signal containing the ‘advice’ was dated June 26, 2023, and signed by Maj. General Y. Yahaya on behalf of the new Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Maj. General Christopher Musa.
The Defence headquarters stated that seniors of the new service chiefs must exit the military “in order to preserve and uphold the tenets of the military profession which values hierarchy and service discipline.”
Already, some affected officers who know the routine of such appointments and vacancies constraints that goes with the appointments have quietly stopped wearing uniforms, signalling their commitment to follow military tradition.
Affected officers of the armed forces have been directed to submit their retirement applications to their respective Service Headquarters not later than July 3, 2023 which is next week.
The signal reads: “It would be recalled that the President, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu recently appointed new CDS and Service Chiefs on 19 Jun 23.
“Consequently, I am directed to respectfully request Services to direct all officers with seniority on commission above that of NDA Regular Course 39 to submit their applications for voluntary retirement from Service with immediate effect.
“It is important that all officers whose officer cadet courses run seniority above that of the current Service Chiefs disengage from the Service.”
Already the pulling out ceremonies of the erstwhile service chiefs and coursemates of many of the generals affected have commenced with former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Farouk Yahaya bowing out last weekend.