Udinese coach Kosta Runjaic emphasizes that the club maintains a positive atmosphere as they gear up for their upcoming match against Como at Sinigaglia, despite the ongoing investigation involving Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye related to betting irregularities.

Maduka Okoye, 25, is currently under investigation by the Udine Public Prosecutor’s Office following unusual betting patterns associated with a yellow card he received during a Serie A match against Lazio in March 2024.

Runjaic stated, “Our primary focus is on the upcoming game against Como. While I’m not aware of specific conversations among the players, I remain engaged in discussions about our formations and tactics. The atmosphere in the locker room is very good, and the team spirit is strong as we continue to work diligently and with intensity.”

Reports from La Gazzetta dello Sport indicate that betting agency Sisal detected unusual betting activities, particularly concerning wagers placed on Okoye receiving a booking during the match. He was cautioned for time-wasting in the 64th minute of Udinese’s 2-1 victory.

The investigation has also brought another individual into the spotlight, Diego Giordano, a 40-year-old pizza restaurant owner in Udine. Allegations suggest that a verbal agreement regarding the betting related to Okoye was made at Giordano’s Biffi pizzeria before being finalized at a Sisal betting outlet shortly before the match.

Should Okoye be found guilty under Article 24 of the Italian Code of Sports Justice, which bars professional athletes from gambling on events organized by FIGC, UEFA, and FIFA, he could face a suspension ranging from seven months to four years. However, Okoye’s legal team has firmly rejected the allegations, asserting that there is insufficient evidence to substantiate the claims.

This situation arises as Okoye is recovering from wrist surgery, which has sidelined him from play. To ensure adequate coverage in the goalkeeping position, Udinese has signed Norwegian goalkeeper Egil Selvik.

Since joining the club in 2023 after a stint at Watford, Maduka Okoye has made 37 appearances across all competitions and has established himself as the first-choice goalkeeper at Udinese before his injury.

Egyptian club, Zamalek ended Enyimba’s CAF Confederation Cup journey with a 3-1 win in their final Group A match at Cairo International Stadium on Sunday.

Having already secured the top position with 11 points, the Egyptian side demonstrated their strength against Enyimba, who were aiming for a victory to keep their knockout stage hopes alive.

Mostafa Shalaby opened the scoring for Zamalek with a well-placed header in the 29th minute, followed by Seifeddine Jaziri doubling the lead shortly after halftime.

Enyimba responded in the 57th minute when Ifeanyi Ihemekwele scored, bringing a flicker of hope for a comeback. However, Jaziri’s second goal just three minutes from full time sealed the match for Zamalek.

In the other match in the group, Al Masry advanced with a solid 3-1 win over Black Bulls Maputo, highlighted by Fakhreddine Benblewssef’s impressive first-half hat-trick.

This result meant Enyimba finished outside the qualification spots, ending their ambitions of expanding their impressive collection of continental titles, which includes two CAF Champions League trophies.

As the eight-time Nigerian champions shift their focus to the Nigeria Premier Football League, which resumes on January 23 with a critical match against former champions Kano Pillars, there is an opportunity to channel their experiences from this competition into their domestic performance.

Nearly half of Nigerians seeking to visit Europe’s Schengen Area over the past two years were denied visas, data obtained by The PUNCH shows.

Out of 192,741 visa applications from Nigerians in 2022 and 2023, 89,344 were turned down, translating to a rejection rate of 46.35 per cent.

Official data from the European Commission and the Henley Global Mobility Report indicate that the rejection rate made Nigeria one of the top 20 countries with the most visas denied to their choice destinations. The country ranked 11th on the list.

In 2022, Nigerian passport holders lodged 86,815 Schengen visa applications, with 46,404 denied. The following year, 105,926 Nigerians applied, with 42,940 rejections.

Although the reports suggest a gradual rise in the share of Schengen visas issued to Nigerian travellers over the years, the denial rate has continued to climb.

The Schengen visa is a short-stay permit allowing travellers to move freely across 27 European countries that make up the Schengen Area—an arrangement designed to simplify cross-border travel and promote regional integration.

First introduced in 1995, it eliminates internal border controls among member states, so holders typically undergo passport checks only upon entry to the Schengen zone.

Depending on the type of visa granted, a traveller may stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period for purposes like tourism, business, or visiting relatives.

Applicants must show proof of sufficient funds, travel insurance, a precise itinerary, and other documents confirming their intent to return home.

While it streamlines travel for many nationals, the permit has proven challenging to secure for individuals from regions with higher perceived overstay risks or security concerns, resulting in relatively high rejection rates for certain nationalities.

Experts say push factors such as harsh economic realities continue to fuel thousands of applications from Nigeria annually as more citizens take the Japa route—a term meaning “escape” often used for emigration.

For instance, the inflation rate in Nigeria increased to 34.80 per cent in December 2024. The rate is expected to be 32.00 per cent by the end of Q1 2025, according to Trading Economics global macro models and analysts’ expectations.

The Nigerian passport fell by 32 places in Henley’s global ranking in the last 20 years, from 62nd in 2006 to 94th in 2025.

According to Henley’s report, six of the top 10 countries with the highest Schengen visa rejection rates are in Africa.

The Comoros led with a 61.3 per cent rejection rate, followed by Guinea-Bissau with 51 per cent, Ghana with 47.5 per cent, Mali with 46.1 per cent, Sudan with 42.3 per cent, and Senegal with 41.2 per cent.

Also, three Asian countries—Pakistan with 49.6 per cent, Syria with 46 per cent and Bangladesh with 43.3 per cent—were on the top list.

Though an EU member and part of Europe’s Schengen area, Greece held the second-highest rejection rate at 56.4 per cent.

While the top 10 African countries in terms of rejection submitted only 2.8 per cent of global Schengen visa applications, they faced a rejection rate of 44.8 per cent as half of the 277,792 applicants from the top 10 countries were denied visas.

On visa trends, Prof. Mehari Maru—a scholar at the School of Transnational Governance and the Migration Policy Centre at the European University Institute, and a visiting professor at Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies—highlighted the structural challenges facing African applicants.

In the Henley Global Mobility Report released in January 2025, he noted “Applicants from African countries often contend with rigorous documentation requirements and heightened scrutiny.

“There are economic, security, and geopolitical dimensions at play, which collectively push up the rejection rates.”

Maru argued that while Africans are receiving more approvals than in specific previous years, their rejections continue to outpace many other nationalities, especially those from regions like North America or Western Europe.

“Global travel freedom has nearly doubled from 58 visa-free destinations in 2006 to 111 in 2025, but the gap between the most and least mobile nations has reached unprecedented levels.

“Africans face consistently higher rejection rates than their Asian and global peers.

“In 2023, despite submitting half as many applications as those from Asia, African applicants were twice as likely to be rejected, with rates 14 percentage points higher than Asian applicants,” Maru added.

However, the rejections are not unique to West Africa. Northern African countries—such as Algeria, Morocco and Egypt—regularly top the list of Schengen denials, suggesting that applicants from across the African continent experience disproportionately high rejection rates.

Regarding the reason for denials, consulates typically cite incomplete documentation, doubts about return intentions, and previous immigration violations, among others. Last December, Vice President Kashim Shettima revealed that Nigeria returned about 10,000 of its citizens detained for sundry migration offences across Europe and America in 2024 alone.

A former Nigerian Ambassador to Singapore, Ogbole Amedu-Ode, told our correspondent that the inclination to leave the country largely stems from Nigeria’s struggling economy, with many citizens taking the Japa route.

He argued that such trends are likely to persist unless there is a significant improvement in the nation’s economic performance.

“The urge to travel out of the country is in itself, primarily, a function of the performance of our national economy.

“The economic doldrums have pushed compatriots to get into the Japa mode.

“The trend may, unfortunately, increase until there’s a turnaround in the performance of the national economy,” the ex-diplomat noted.

He said while the statistics on the visa application denials are worrisome, there is also evidence of an increase in the number of approved visa applications by Nigerians seeking to travel to Schengen member countries.

Amedu-Ode added, “Even then, the simultaneous increase in approvals and rejection is a function of the spike in the number of our compatriots applying to travel to that zone of the world.”

The youth wing of the apex-Igbo sociocultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has called on the new President General of the body, Chief John Azuta-Mbata, to prioritise the release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) as one of his key assignments.

The call was made by the National Publicity Secretary of the Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Wing, Chika Adiele, who described the move as a critical step towards uniting the Igbo nation.

He said: “One of the most important tasks before him now is to bring all segments of Igbo leadership together on the same page. The youths expect him to take the issue of Nnamdi Kanu’s release seriously.

“That would be a monumental achievement for him. If he can champion the release of our brother Nnamdi Kanu, who was illegally renditioned to Nigeria and has been detained for so long, it would be a huge win not just for him, but for all of us.”

Beyond Kanu’s release, Adiele expressed confidence in Azuta-Mbata’s ability to address the challenges faced by Igbo youths, including unemployment, lack of empowerment and insecurity.

He stressed the urgent need to engage young people constructively to address the root causes of unrest in the South East.

“Igbo youths have suffered so much under our leaders. There’s a lack of jobs, no incentives, no empowerment. Today, we see pockets of insecurity across the South East, and when you look closely, you’ll find that most of the non-state actors causing this insecurity are young people.”

He called on the new leader to engage the youth in meaningful dialogue and find sustainable solutions to their challenges.

“We need him to sit down with the youths, have an honest conversation, and figure out how to pull us out of the bushes and bring us back to the centre. This is how we can salvage Alaigbo. It’s a big part of what we expect from him,” Adiele explained.

Recent developments in the long-standing investigation into Tupac Shakur’s murder have brought renewed attention to Sean “Diddy” Combs, the renowned music mogul.

Newly released legal documents, which include a transcript of a police interview, named Diddy in connection with the infamous case.

These documents emerged against the backdrop of ongoing legal challenges faced by the billionaire entertainer, who has been in prison since his arrest in September 2024.

The allegations suggest that Diddy may have offered substantial amount for the murders of both Tupac Shakur and Death Row Records’ founder, Suge Knight.

Notably, Diddy’s name appeared 47 times within the newly surfaced transcripts from a 2009 interview with Duane “Keefe D” Davis, who is currently awaiting trial for Tupac’s murder.

In the covertly recorded interview, Keefe D refers to Diddy as the “boss” and mentioned his association with three Southside Crips gangs that allegedly played a role in the murder.

When asked directly about Diddy’s involvement, Keefe responded affirmatively, stating, “Yeah,” and elaborated on what he described as Diddy’s intense hatred towards Knight, indicating that Diddy was willing to go to great lengths for revenge.

Diddy has however denied involvement in Shakur’s death, calling the allegations “completely ridiculous” and“pure fiction.”

Recall that Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs was arrested in New York few months ago.

The arrest followed a grand jury indictment, with Combs’ lawyer, Marc Agnifilo, expressing disappointment and criticism towards the US Attorney’s Office for pursuing what he considers an unjust prosecution.

Agnifilo highlighted Sean Combs’ voluntary cooperation with the investigation and his decision to travel to New York in anticipation of the charges.

Despite being one of the most recognized names worldwide, historians and linguists assert that “Jesus Christ” was not the original name of the central figure of Christianity.

Scholars suggest that Jesus would have been known as “Yeshua” or “Yeshu,” based on linguistic and historical evidence.

The Aramaic Connection

Aramaic, the language Jesus likely spoke in his daily life, holds the key to his original name. Professor Dineke Houtman explains, “Given his background in Nazareth, we can assume his day-to-day language was Aramaic,” as quoted by DailyMailUK.

According to Aramaic texts and inscriptions, “Yeshua” was derived from the Hebrew “Yehoshua,” which translates to “God saves.”

A Journey Through Languages

The name evolved as it passed through different languages. Greek transliterations changed “Yeshua” to “Iesous” due to the absence of certain Hebrew and Aramaic sounds. This became “Iesus” in Latin before the introduction of the letter “J” in the 16th century transformed it into “Jesus” in English.

“Christ” As A Title, Not A Surname

Contrary to popular belief, “Christ” was not Jesus’ surname. Instead, it was a title derived from the Greek word “Christos,” meaning “Messiah” or “God’s anointed one.”

Marko Marina clarifies, “In the ancient world, most people didn’t have last names as we understand them. Instead, they were identified by parentage, origin, or characteristics. Jesus was often referred to as ‘Jesus of Nazareth’ to differentiate him from others named Yeshua.”

One Of Galilee’s Most Common Names

Professor Candida Moss notes that “Yeshua” or “Yeshu” was one of the most common names in first-century Galilee. “Most scholars agree that his name was Yeshua or possibly Yeshu, reflecting the cultural and linguistic context of his time,” Moss says.

The transformation of “Yeshua” into “Jesus” demonstrates the practice of transliteration—adapting sounds from one language to another. Greek’s lack of certain Hebrew and Aramaic sounds led to “Iesous,” which later became the Latinized “Iesus” before evolving into the modern English “Jesus.”

While “Jesus Christ” is universally recognized today, the historical figure likely introduced himself in Aramaic as “Yeshua of Nazareth.”

Despite the changes his name underwent across centuries and cultures, the meaning of “Yehoshua” — “God saves” — remains central to his identity.

The crisis of confidence within the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) appears to be far from being over, as the schism within the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) gets worse with two different power   blocs issuing contradictory press releases on crucial party matter.

No sooner had a bloc within the NWC represented by the PDP National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba addressed a press conference announcing the party’s acceptance of the Appeal Court’s ruling sacking Senator Samuel Anyanwu as National Secretary and enthronement of Sunday Kelly Enemchukwu Udeh-Okoye in his stead than the Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Ibrahim Abdullahi held a separate press conference to declare that Senator Anyanwu remained in his position pending the final resolution of the national secretaryship dispute by the Supreme Court.

Accusing Ologunagba of being driven by sentiments and interest, Abdullahi claimed he acted at the behest of the acting National Chairman, Ambassador Umar Damagum to counter the National Publicity Secretary.

The court of Appeal, Enugu Division had on December 24th sacked Anyanwu and declared Udeh-Okoye as the authentic National Secretary of the party following a suit by the latter which had sought to remove Senator Anyanwu from that position having emerged the party’s candidate for the November 2023 Imo State governorship election.

Udeh- Okoye, a former PDP National Youth Leader who was nominated by the South-East chapter of the party as Senator Anyanwu’s replacement had argued that he (Senator Anyanwu) lost his position as National Secretary when he vied for and secured the PDP ticket for the Imo guber election.

Following Senator Anyanwu’s emphatic declaration that he had “resumed” office despite the Appeal court ruling and the Ologunagba’s group acceptance of his sack by the appellate court, keen followers of the unfolding drama had predicted the situation signposted darker and more troubling days for the party.

Briefing journalists on the court judgement, Ologunagba had maintained that the party recognised Okoye as the authentic National Secretary of the party in obedience to the appeal court ruling.

“There were two court orders, and on Dec. 24, 2023, after consultation with the PDP National Legal Adviser, it was confirmed that we had received the judgment of the appeal court affirming Udeh-Okoye as the National Secretary of the party.

“We are a rule of law-compliant party; we believe in this finality of the judicial process. We have always respected judicial pronouncements and we will always abide by that culture. The position of the party has not changed regarding that.

“In accordance with our position in the past as a rule of law-compliant party, we are obeying the court’s order. We will follow the process and ensure full compliance with the pronouncement of the court of appeal.

“We have received the judgment of the court of appeal that affirmed Ude-Okoye as National Secretary of PDP, and as a party, we are bound by that judgment”, Ologunagba said.

However, when Senator Anyanwu stormed the PDP national secretariat in defiance of the Appeal court judgement, he dismissed Ologunagba’s position on the matter as his personal opinion, insisting that he remained the authentic National Secretary of the PDP pending the final determination of the case by the Supreme Court.

Hon. Geoffrey Ekong, a member of the party in Akwa Ibom State is concerned that Senator Anyanwu’s defiance of the Appeal Court ruling and his rubbishing of Ologunagba’s press briefing, which announced the PDP’s National Working Committee’s acceptance of the ruling will inevitably result in a fresh round of rancour, factionalization, suspension and counter suspension within the NWC.

According to him, “agents of the APC masquerading as members and leaders of the PDP are doing everything humanly possible to wear out the party and destroy it before moving to the APC just before the commencement of the 2027 general elections. That is their agenda, that is their plan and all these are all about the 2027 presidential election. They don’t want a united and formidable PDP to present a strong candidate to challenge the incumbent president and his party.”

He further said that “the schism within the NWC is still there and even widening; the Ologunagba faction that announced the acceptance of the Appeal Court ruling and the Umar Damagum/Anyanwu faction that defied the ruling are likely to suspend each other once again just as they did in October and this is not good for the stability of the party, not good for a party that hopes to upstage the ruling party in two years’ time.

“As leaders, I expected the Damagum/Anyanwu group to respect the rule of law instead of making mockery of it. Defiance of a court order, in this case, the second highest court in the land, is a bad omen. This is regrettable”

Meanwhile, while Senator Anyanwu insists that “I have appealed the Appeal Court judgment and filed for a stay of execution, until these matters are resolved, I remain the National Secretary,” Ologunagba, maintained that Ude-Okoye remains the recognised National Secretary of the PDP on the strength of the Appeal Court ruling, which he noted, is declarative in nature, and therefore, cannot be stayed.

Ologunagba further posit that “the PDP has not received any notice of motion or stay of execution. Anyanwu’s actions are unfortunate. This is a party of law and order, and we will continue to abide by court judgments. Those who resort to self-help are not acting in the party’s interest.”

The PDP image makers also suggests that some elements within the party are in bed with the APC and are fuelling the crisis rocking his party.

Although the Board of Trustees (BoT) of the PDP, Daily Sun learnt, was instrumental in preventing the Anyanwu-Ude Okoye feud from dangerously degenerating, its chairman and former Senate President, Senator Adolphus Wabara is of the view that Senator Anyanwu should give peace a chance by abiding by the Appeal Court ruling.

“The judgment affirming Ude -Okoye as PDP National Secretary is a welcome judgment. It further lends credence to the decision of the South East PDP on the issue. We had always contended that the party’s constitution must be obeyed, and the Appeal Court judgment has just affirmed that.

“Since PDP is a party that obeys the law, and believes in constitutionality, we should obey this court order. As the BoT chairman of the party, I want to request of the NWC of our party to obey that judgment. If at sometime in the future, there is a counter court judgment, we won’t have any option but obey it. Such counter-judgment must come from a superior court, and the Supreme Court in this circumstance.

“I want to make it very clear; I have consulted widely on this and found that the issue of stay of execution does not come in here. One can only challenge the judgment but not stay the execution because that judgment is a declaratory judgment. In law, the execution of a declaratory judgment cannot be stayed. It can only be challenged in a higher court.

“You cannot stay action on declaratory judgment. I will, therefore, advise those going to court for a stay of execution not to waste their money on that. They should apply their money appropriately towards the Supreme Court, and not to cause problem here and there, thinking that once you appeal against a judgment, it is automatic stay of execution. That does not apply here because declaratory judgment does not entertain stay of execution.”

Political analysts and watchers of the unfolding drama in the PDP are of the view that the dispute between Senator Anyanwu and Ude Okoye over the Secretaryship of the party may lead to its final amputation. They further submit that the dispute could create a leeway for broader schism in the party resulting in the emergence of parallel or factional NWC, a situation that could provide an alibi for some governors of the party as well as National Assembly members who are already allegedly in defection talks with the ruling APC to quicken their exit.

For example, an impeccable PDP source disclosed that “despite the denial by Governor Sheriff Francis Oborevwori’s aides about his impending defection to the APC, he is in fact in the final stages of his plans to leave the PDP; he will move soon and will be citing the crisis in the PDP and its inability to function properly as an opposition party as reasons for leaving.

“The truth is that the governor is concerned about his second term, he feels that the PDP is in a bad shape and lacks the steam to guarantee him second term. He also wants to enjoy the cover and assistance the so-called federal might gives to ruling party candidates during elections. Besides, given the influence his kinsman and former Governor, Chief James Ibori still wields in the state, Governor Oborevwori is desirous of belonging to the same political party and political camp as Ibori; as you know, Chief Ibori is now an APC chieftain and calls the shots in Delta chapter of the party,” the source added.

Daily Sun further gathered that because of his alleged defection moves, Governor Oborevwori has lately been intolerable of criticisms against the APC and its leaders.

“ It may interest you to know that contrary to the charges of incompetence levelled against the erstwhile commissioner for information, Ifeanyi Osuoza as a reason for his sack, he was actually fired because of his harsh criticism of the Delta APC and acerbic rebuttal of Governor Oborevwori’s alleged defection plans; a rebuttal where the commissioner had assured that ‘they (APC) will suffer even more disgraceful de-feat in 2027’ it is like saying that Governor Oborevwori will suffer disgraceful defeat in 2027.

“Recall too that in November, Governor Oborevwori had dissociated himself from a scathing criticism of President Bola Tinubu by his Executive Assistant on New Media, Mr Felix Ofou. Remember that the Governor, in distancing himself from Ofou, urged Deltans to support the President as his (Tinubu) failure also meant his failure,” the source added.

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has ruled out any possibility of reconciling with Rivers State Governor Sim Fubara, intensifying the ongoing political conflict between the two leaders.

Speaking during a media chat broadcast live on television in Abuja, yesterday, he criticised Fubara for failing to adhere to directives issued by President Bola Tinubu during a peace meeting aimed at resolving their differences.

At the press briefing, Wike said: “I’m wondering what conflict to resolve? Mr President, in his wisdom, called all parties. He said withdraw the impeachment notice, you go and do this, you go and do that, but they never returned to him.

“The Assembly withdrew the impeachment notice; you did one and two, and then you sent people to go to court. Elder, have you gone back to Mr. President to tell him we can’t do three and four? Nothing.

“I have never seen this in my life — for a president to call parties, and one party goes back and says it’s political. Who does that?”

His statement underscored the deepening rift that has emerged since Fubara took office, with Wike accusing him of not fulfilling his obligations as governor.

The feud has escalated tensions within the Rivers State House of Assembly, where 27 members have defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC), leading to factionalism and a parallel assembly.

The political landscape in Rivers has been marked by power struggles as both leaders vie for control over state resources and influence.

Wike also defended his infrastructure-focused agenda amid criticism for neglecting human capital development. “Infrastructure drives the economy.”

He asserted that ongoing road projects are creating significant job opportunities, highlighting that over 200 people are employed through these initiatives in Kwali and surrounding areas, emphasizing, “These aren’t government positions; they are real opportunities.” He challenged the notion that employment is limited to government jobs, reinforcing his commitment to fostering local economic growth through infrastructure development.

He said: “The problem I have is that whenever we embark on these projects, people complain about what hasn’t been done, but the reality is that infrastructure drives the economy.

“When we focus on infrastructure, human capital development naturally follows. It’s not just about government jobs, it’s about creating real opportunities.

“Not less than 200 people are being employed in Kwali and other areas. These aren’t government positions, these are people working as contractors and in other capacities that come with the development of our infrastructure.”

On concerns over the provision of streetlights on newly commissioned roads, Wike, while noting that the initial plans had not included streetlights, assured that the FCTA had taken action to address the issue.

“When we flagged off these projects last year, there was no provision for streetlights. But now, in places like Kuje and Kwali, streetlights have been provided,” Wike confirmed. “The roads we flagged off in November and December will have streetlights by May or June.”

The Minster issued a stern warning to officials and landowners in Abuja, emphasising strict adherence to land regulations.

He reiterated his commitment to expediting the issuance of Certificates of Occupancy (C of O), crucial for business growth and financing. Wike highlighted that his administration has already signed 7,000 C of Os in two years, surpassing the 7,000 issued by previous governments from 2015 to 2023. He vowed to take decisive action against non-compliance, stating that inefficiency within his team will not be tolerated

He said: “When I identify that you are not willing to work, I will kick you out,” disclosing the concluded decision to remove two directors from FCT Administration.

“I don’t give a damn. When I see you’re not working, I will kick you out. Heaven will not fall.”

According to him, a staggering N300 billion is being owed for Right of Occupancy (R of O) fees, arguing it is part of what is  delaying infrastructure development in the federal capital.

Wike emphasised that with revenue generation exceeding N25 billion, the timely payment of taxes and the resolution of backlogs are crucial for the growth and development of the Federal Capital Territory. He underscored that these financial measures are essential to support ongoing projects and enhance the territory’s infrastructure.

“Government gave you land, and you can’t go and pay over 15 to 16 years, what kind of country are we in?” He asked.

On recent acts of vandalism that have plunged significant parts of Abuja into darkness, he vowed that those responsible will be charged with economic sabotage rather than theft. This declaration came during a media briefing on Sunday evening, where Wike expressed his outrage over the damage inflicted on critical transmission infrastructure.

He revealed that authorities have already arrested several suspects linked to the vandalism of a 132kV transmission line and underground cables owned by the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN). The minister made it clear that the charges would reflect the severity of the crime, stating, “We won’t charge you with stealing; we will charge you with economic sabotage. Enough is enough.”

He stressed that such actions threaten not only the stability of the capital but also the broader economic framework of the nation.

Vandalism has had a significant impact on daily life in Abuja, leaving over 60% of the city without electricity. Areas severely affected include Wuse, Utako, Jabi, Maitama, Lifecamp, Asokoro, Mabushi, and parts of the Presidential Villa, which houses President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima.

The TCN attributed the power outages directly to these criminal acts, highlighting the urgent need for action against those who disrupt essential services.

Wike urged residents of the FCT to take an active role in safeguarding their communities by reporting any suspicious activities. “Nobody who loves his country will accept what is going on,” he stated, reinforcing the idea that community involvement is crucial in combating such acts of sabotage.

He assured citizens that security agencies are diligently working to address the situation and that those involved in the vandalism will face justice.

Urges FG to consolidate fiscal policies

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has retained its 2025 growth projection for Nigeria at 3.2 per cent, signaling moderate optimism about the country’s economic recovery.

However, the IMF urged Federal Government to strengthen and consolidate its fiscal policies to ensure sustainable growth and public debt sustainability.

In its World Economic Outlook (WEO) published at the weekend titled, Global Growth: Divergent and Uncertain (January 2025), the Washington, USA-based institution said growth in Nigeria was projected to gradually decline in 2026 to three per cent, adding that the 3.2 per cent projection for 2025 pointed to the fact that emerging markets like Nigeria showed relative stability, contributing to the broader growth trajectory.

Also, it said the economic growth forecast for sub-Saharan Africa was retained at 4.2 per cent for 2025, projecting similar growth in 2026.

IMF raised its 2025 growth forecast to 3.3 per cent, up from 3.2 per cent in October 2024, and added that growth for 2026 was also expected to remain at 3.3 per cent.

It said: “The forecast for 2025 is broadly unchanged from that in the October 2024 WEO, primarily on account of an upward     revision in the United States offsetting downward revisions in other major economies.”

The IMF explained that global headline inflation is expected to decline to 4.2% in 2025 and 3.5% in 2026, converging back to the target earlier in advanced economies than in emerging markets and developing economies.

Offering guidance on how to manage inflation, the lender emphasised that monetary policy should aim to restore price stability while also supporting economic activity and employment.

“In economies where inflationary pressures persist and the risk of unexpected increases is high, a restrictive stance should be maintained until there is clearer evidence that inflation is returning to target sustainably.

“In economies in which activity is cooling fast and inflation is on track to durably go back to target, a less restrictive stance is justified. In either case, fiscal policy should consolidate to put public debt on a sustainable path and restore the space needed for more agile responses,” the IMF said.

The lender also stressed the importance of fiscal policy consolidation, recommending that it be aligned with the goal of placing public debt on a sustainable path while creating room for more responsive policy actions.

Labour fears hike will fuel food crisis

Increase in line with rising crude price –Dangote

The Nigeria Labour Congress has frowned on the recent hike in the pump prices of Premium Motor Spirit, popularly called petrol, describing it as the height of insensitivity against the masses.

Senior NLC officials disclosed this in separate interviews with our correspondents on Sunday, as oil marketers refuted being blamed for the recent hike in PMS prices nationwide.

Similarly, the Dangote Petroleum Refinery also said the rise in petrol price was not from the $20bn Lekki-based plant but due to an increase in the cost of crude oil, the major component for refined petroleum products.

Recall that on Friday, the pump prices of petrol rose to between N1,050 and N1,150 per litre following the hike in the cost of the commodity by the Dangote Petroleum Refinery and various depot owners.

Dealers confirmed that PMS prices would continue to rise since the major component in fuel production, crude oil, has been on the upward swing lately.

Reacting to this, the Deputy President of Nigeria Labour Congress Political Commission, Prof Theophilus Ndubuaku argued that in a saner clime, representatives of workers, the organised private sector and students would have been called to a roundtable to deliberate on the course of action and analysis of the consequences before the decision would be taken.

He said, “This pump price hike will not only affect foodstuff and fare. There is the problem of inflation and the value of naira to contend with. Instead, what we are seeing is a situation we call Tinubunomics. It is something that has not been tested.

“When you talk about subsidies, is there a country that doesn’t have it? It’s all over the world. Even most of the goods you see in this country from China are subsidised. You are refusing to subsidise fuel and also refusing to even facilitate the so-called CNG buses. How many years does it take to do something like this?

“If you know the kind of game we (the NLC) and them are playing on this CNG thing. Now, they are not even involving the people in the so-called CNG conversion. If you promise to run an inclusive government, It’s not just you that should be doing the talking. Yet, when somebody talks, they send attack dogs to attack and label him a member of the Obidient movement.”

Continuing, Ndubuaku emphasised that President Bola Tinubu will do well to borrow the template of former leaders like Olusegun Obasanjo, who he claimed held a monthly roundtable with stakeholders whenever sensitive issues that have a lot to do with workers’ welfare were being discussed.

“Such discussions were held in the Villa. Every month people would be invited and issues would be discussed. We’re not saying you shouldn’t do it. But please, carry people along. Let us know why you want to do these things so people will be prepared.

“But you can’t just keep changing the prices without any regard for us? This is what is causing all this frustration. They are not carrying the masses along. They have virtually made it difficult for the NLC to be involved in anything they are doing. Nigeria is not the personal property of anybody.

“If you are going to do anything that will involve the masses, you should call the people who represent the workers at least. You have certain blocks and groups of people in this country that have representatives, even in the so-called business sector that you can talk to,” he explained.

Labour tackles marketers

Also speaking on the hike in petrol price, the Chairperson of the Nigeria Labour Congress in Lagos State, Sessi Funmi, accused oil marketers of being major contributors to Nigeria’s economic challenges, describing them as “enemies of the masses.”

Speaking with The PUNCH on Sunday, Sessi criticised oil marketers for manipulating petroleum pricing to exploit Nigerians, alleging that they were undermining the government’s efforts to stabilise the downstream oil sector.

She asserted that the recent reduction in the pump price of petrol did not sit well with marketers because it disrupted their exploitative practices.

“How can marketers be telling us that an increase in crude oil prices automatically translates to higher prices for the finished product? Are they buying crude oil? No! They buy the finished product,” Sessi said.

She applauded Tinubu’s administration for reviving two of Nigeria’s refineries in Port Harcourt and Warri, emphasising that these developments should lead to a further reduction in PMS prices.

She argued that oil marketers are attempting to frustrate these efforts to maintain their monopolistic control.

“The Tinubu administration has done what successive governments failed to do by putting our refineries to work. Marketers should stop frustrating these efforts.

“The government must deal directly with suppliers and eliminate middlemen who corruptly enrich themselves,” Sessi added.

She urged the government to emulate Dangote refinery’s direct supply model and establish agreements with oil companies and petrol stations to ensure fair pricing.

“Marketers are the problem. They’ve been receiving subsidies without supplying products and now want to determine prices when they don’t even own refineries.

‘We reject this. Nigerians cannot continue to suffer due to their greed,” Sessi concluded.

The NLC chair called for transparency and accountability in the petroleum sector, warning that Nigerians will no longer tolerate exploitative practices.

Dangote refutes blame

The Dangote refinery said it has agreed with its partners – MRS, Ardova and Heyden – to sell its PMS at the rate of N970 per litre across the country.

The company said it absorbed the increased logistics costs to guarantee uniform pricing across the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory.

In a statement by the Dangote Group spokesman, Anthony Chiejina, the company clarified that the recent adjustment in its ex-depot price of petrol was directly related to the significant increase in global crude oil prices.

“At Dangote Petroleum Refinery, we recognise the critical importance of affordable fuel for all Nigerians, and we remain committed to offering the best value with guaranteed quality to our customers. While we have made a five per cent adjustment to our ex-depot price from N899.50 to N950 per litre, it is important to note that this increase is considerably lower than the 15 per cent rise in global crude oil prices. Furthermore, Dangote refinery has maintained the Single-Point Mooring ex-vessel price at N895 per litre.

“All our partners, including Ardova, Heyden, and MRS Holdings, will offer petrol to Nigerians at a retail price of N970 per litre nationwide. We have absorbed the increased logistics costs to guarantee uniform pricing across the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory,” Chiejina said.

Speaking further, he said the Dangote refinery absorbed approximately 50 per cent of the cost increases in the international oil market due to its unwavering commitment to quality and affordability, as well as the ownership of the refinery by Nigerians.

“If Dangote refinery were to pass on the entire increase in the price of crude oil to the market, the retail price of PMS would be approximately N1,150 to N1,200 per litre in some locations, compared to the current price of N970 per litre.

“We are committed to providing reliable, top-quality petrol to the Nigerian people at competitive prices. In these challenging times, we continue to prioritise the best interests of Nigerians, striving to shield consumers from the full impact of global price volatility while adapting to evolving market conditions.

“We sincerely appreciate the continued trust and support of Nigerians as we strive to deliver the best value for their money and contribute to the development of a self-sufficient economy that is resilient to international price fluctuations,” he stated.

In the interest of transparency and good governance, Chiejina said the Dangote refinery will now commence publishing its ex-depot price, ex-vessel price, and pump price every week so that consumers are not exploited.

He concluded, “We would like to express our gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for the introduction of the visionary Naira-for-Crude Initiative. This groundbreaking initiative has enabled consistent access to high-quality PMS for all Nigerians, while also insulating the Nigerian consumers from the volatility of the global oil market.”

Marketers speak

Meanwhile, marketers of petroleum products said they should not be blamed for the instability in the prices of petrol in recent times.

This is as stakeholders warned that the price of petrol will no longer be stable following the full deregulation of the market.

According to them, the major factors determining the price are the international crude oil price and the exchange rate. It was argued that the instability of the two factors means that the price of PMS will continue to rise and fall at intervals.

As of Sunday, the Benchmark Brent crude price was $80.78; the WTI was $77.88 while the Morban crude was $83.65, according to oilprice.com. Nigeria’s Brass River crude was $83.69 and the Qua Iboe was $83.59.

Speaking with The PUNCH, retailers under the aegis of the Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria urged Nigerians, especially the labour unions, not to believe that filling stations are to blame for the changes in the prices of PMS.

PETROAN affirmed that the increase in PMS prices was a result of the rise in the cost of crude oil in the international market.

Prices were said to have risen to a four-month high following the introduction of new United States sanctions against Russian oil.

The sanctions imposed on January 10 caused a spike in the price of oil and a surge in the cost of tanker shipping, as the outgoing President Joe Biden’s administration took steps to damage Russia’s oil exports and hinder attempts by Moscow to build its fleet.

The Biden administration had issued sweeping sanctions targeting the Russian energy sector, aiming for Moscow’s oil revenues just days before Donald Trump would assume office.

The measures include sanctions on Russian oil producers, Gazprom Neft and Surgutneftegas, and the blacklisting of 183 vessels involved in Russian energy exports. Dozens of traders, Russia-based oilfield service providers, and energy officials were also targeted.

The National President of PETROAN, Dr Billy Gillis-Harry, quoting Section 205 of the Petroleum Industry Act, stated that petrol prices are determined by market forces, indicating that the government and the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited no longer set petrol prices nor do marketers arbitrarily inflate prices.

As a result, he noted that refinery operators in Nigeria will respond accordingly to changes in crude oil prices while the effect would be felt by dealers, retailers, and end consumers.

Gillis-Harry noted that increasing crude oil prices would inevitably affect domestic costs.

“Retailers should not be blamed for the price increase. It’s no longer funny; even we, retail outlet owners, are affected by this up-and-down movement of prices. It affects our business,” he noted.

Gillis-Harry emphasised that PETROAN members cannot buy petrol at a higher price and sell it at a lower rate.

“Our selling rate always reflects our buying rate. Our members shouldn’t be blamed for the current increase; it’s an external factor. We cannot buy petrol at a higher price and sell below that cost. We cannot buy at N955 and sell at N1,000 per litre. We need to look at logistics and add a humane margin,” he added.

The National Vice Chairman of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria, Hammed Fashola, said marketers are aware of the competition in the market and no one wants to be left behind by selling at higher rates.

“You cannot deceive yourself. There is competition out there. So, if you like, put your fuel at N1,500 per litre, nobody will buy it. So, the price change is not deliberately done by marketers,” Fashola said.

He noted that marketers are now wary of the volatility of the downstream sector, saying they have to go with information before making purchases or before making imports as many of them made losses in December when the price was suddenly reduced by the Dangote refinery and the NNPC.

“And there are some factors you have to consider. That is the exchange rate and the crude oil price. Those are the major factors that determine the price of petroleum products,” he added.

To avoid running into financial losses, he advised that owners of filling stations must be futuristic and do their projections well.