Multichoice Group, the owner of DSTV has again hiked the tariff plan for its satellite television service by 25.4 per cent despite public outcry.

The price raise was announced on Wednesday in a message sent to customers, adding it will take effect on May 1, 2024.

The statement signed by John Ugbe, Chief Executive Officer was titled, ‘Price Adjustment on DStv and GOtv Packages.’

The new price review is the third since May 2023 when the company announced change in tariff.

DSTV said, “We understand the impact this change may have on you – our valued customer, but the rise in the cost of business operations, has led us to make this difficult decision.

“It remains our mission to provide the best entertainment and viewing experience to you and are committed to continue to deliver high-quality content and unparalleled service. So, from Wednesday, 1 May 2024, the price adjustment will take effect.”

Based on the review, the Premium tariff subscribers will no longer pay N29,500 as it has been adjusted by 25.4 per cent to N37,000,.

Compact Plus tariff was raised from 19,800 to N25,000 while Compact was increased to N15,700 from N12,500.

DSTV hiked the Confam tariff from N7,400 to N9300; Yanga tariff price was revised to N5,100 from N4,200 while Padi plan was reviewed from NN2900 to N3,600.

HDPVR Access Service, Access Fees, and XtraView subscribers will pay N5,000 respectively after review from the old rate of N4,000.

The Kaduna State House of Assembly has written to the state’s Ministry of Finance, requesting details of financial transactions under former governor of the state, Nasir El-rufai.

El-Rufai was governor between 2015 and 2023.

The request is to enable the State Assembly to obtain relevant documents to probe all finances, loans and contract projects awarded under the El-Rufai administration.

The State Assembly instituted a probe panel a week ago following Governor Uba Sani’s revelation that the state inherited far too much debt that it could handle.

Sani, who spoke during a town hall meeting in Kaduna, has said, “Despite the huge debt burden of N587m, N85bn, and N115bn contractual liabilities sadly inherited from the previous administration, we remain resolute in steering Kaduna State towards progress and sustainable development.

“We have conducted a thorough assessment of our situation and are sharpening our focus accordingly.”

After weeks of accusation and counter accusation, the State House of Assembly resolved to probe the administration, which led to the establishment of a fact-finding committee.

The letter with reference number LEG/S. 382/VOL. II/615, from the office of the Clerk of the Assembly, to the Finance Commissioner, requested the submission of memorandum and documents related to financial transactions between the years 2015 and May 2023.

In the letter signed by the Clerk of the Assembly, Sakinatu Idris on Wednesday, the House directed the ministry to forward all the transaction details to the fact-finding committee set to probe all finances, loans and contract projects awarded under El-Rufai’s administration.

It read, “I am directed to request you to forward to the Ad-Hoc Committee Memorandum to be accompanied with the underlisted documents and all other documents you consider relevant to the assignment of the Committee: –”total Loans from May, 2015 to May, 2023 with the approvals of the Kaduna State House of Assembly, the Accounts into which the loans were lodged and drawn as recorded by Project Finance Management Unit (PFMU) & Debt Management Office (DMO).

“Relevant State Executive Council Minutes of meetings, Council’s Extracts and Resolutions with regards to the LOANS. (c) Payments and Outstanding Liabilities to Contractors from May, 2015-May, 2023.

“Reports of Salaries paid to Staff from 2016-2022. (e) Dloyd Reports on KADRIS from 2015 to 2023. (ii) Terms, Purpose and Conditions on those LOANS. (iii) Appropriation items related to the LOANS. (iv) All Records of payments made to all Contractors engaged by the State Government and relevant documents from May, 2015 to May, 2023 including Bank Statements.

“(v)Modalities for payments of contracts. (vi) Documents of all payments made to the contractors. (vii) Sales of Government Houses/Properties and Accounts the proceeds were lodged and how the money was expended.

“Thirty (30) copies of the Memo/documents should reach the office of the Clerk to the Legislature on or before Thursday, 25th April, 2024 by 10:00 am, please. 4. Accept the highest regards of my office, please.*

— As FG plans to make skill acquisition compulsory for primary, secondary schools

AS the Tripartite Committee of the National Minimum Wage prepares to release the harmonised recommendation for the new minimum wage expected to take effect from May, the National Association of Academic Technologists, NAAT, on Wednesday, proposed N350,000 as the new living wage.

NAAT based its recommendation on the present economic situation in the country occasioned by the removal of fuel subsidy, high inflationary rate and the attendant hardship. 

This is as the Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, has hinted that the federal government will soon introduce the policy that will make skill acquisition compulsory for primary and secondary schools.

The Minister said that NAAT is very important the present education curriculum, pointing out that the present world is driven by technology which is used to solve problems.

The Minister dropped the hint while declaring open the NAAT’s National Delegate Conference in Abuja.

Prof. Mamman, who described NAAT as being pivotal and at the centre of the nation’s development, disclosed that, “The Federal Government is planning to bring skills education in primary and secondary schools.”

In his welcome address at the 5th National Delegate Conference, NDC, in University of Abuja, the President of NAAT, Comrade Ibeji Nwokoma, said what workers need should be a living wage that should take care of the immediate needs.

The theme of the conference is, “Technology, a recipe for national development and socioeconomic growth in the 21st century: the Nigeria quest for a better tomorrow.”

While differentiating between minimum wage and living wage, Comrade Nwokoma said, “Nigeria must transcend the concept of a mere minimum wage to embrace the notion of a living wage, commensurate with the rising cost of living.

“Comparatively, other African countries have made strides in this regard, recognizing the fundamental right of workers to earn wages that afford them dignity and a standard of living.

“According to the Wisevoter report, Seychelles boasts the highest estimated gross monthly wage in Africa, standing at $465.4, while the South Africa’s monthly wage stands at $240. The naira equivalent of the wages of these countries would clearly depict the sorry state of the Nigerian worker.

“On this note, I proposed a minimum of Three Hundred of Fifty Thousand Naira (N350, 000) for the Nigeria worker as monthly wage.”

Nwokoma, who chronicled the achievements of leadership in the past four years, said that he encountered persistent challenges despite notable achievements. 

He mentioned the issue of CONTISS 14 and 15 circular delays as one of the challenges his leadership had encountered.

He said, “Despite concerted efforts, the release of circulars for CONTISS 14 and 15 remained elusive, hampering the career progression of our members. To address this, we will intensify advocacy efforts, engaging relevant stakeholders and leveraging all available channels to expedite the release of these crucial circulars in the next dispensation of our leadership. It is a task that must be achieved.”

On the lingering FGN/NAAT 2009 Agreement, Comrade Nwokoma said, “The lingering non-completion of the FGN/NAAT 2009 Agreement posed a significant hurdle. Despite collaborative efforts with sister unions, unresolved issues persisted, hindering the full realization of the agreement’s provisions. current leadership pledges to redouble efforts, fostering stronger alliances with sister unions and employing strategic negotiation tactics to drive progress towards a satisfactory resolution.”

Speaking on the backlog salary payments, NAAT said, “The non-payment of backlog salaries remained a pressing concern, impacting the financial stability of our members and causing disaffection and low morale.

“To address this challenge, the leadership in the next dispensation will pursue proactive measures, including dialogue with relevant authorities, recourse to necessary action within the ambit of the law, and sustained advocacy to ensure the prompt and fair resolution of outstanding salary arrears, prioriazing welfare of members.

Poor State of Roads:

“The dilapidated state of roads nationwide remains a glaring reflection of our infrastructure deficit. Inadequate road networks not only impede economic activities but also pose significant risks to safety and livelihoods. Urgent interventions are imperative to address this pressing infrastructure challenge.

“In light of these realities, the National Association of Academic Technologists (NAAT) pledges unwavering commitment to advocacy, dialogue, and appropriate action towards addressing these multifaceted challenges.

“Together, let us strive for a Nigeria where education in technology thrives, security prevails, the economy flourishes, and infrastructure serves as a catalyst for development and prosperity.”

He said as the country embarked on the journey towards harnessing technology for national development and socioeconomic growth, the citizens should remain steadfast in their commitment to innovation, collaboration, and progress.

“Together, we possess the power to shape al brighter future for Nigeria, leveraging technology as a catalyst for transformation. I therefore urge each delegate to actively engage in robust discussions, share insights, and forge pathways towards a better tomorrow as reflected in the theme of the conference.”

The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum, AYCF, has alleged that a section of the northern political elites is plotting to prevent President Bola Tinubu from seeking re-election in 2027.

The forum also alleged that the ongoing disruptions and agitations in the North is an attempt to achieve the aim in 2027.

The President General of AYCF, Yerima Shettima, claimed that the plot involves setting unrealistic and unattainable standards for the Tinubu administration, with the aim of discrediting the government and swaying public opinion against it.

He said, “The campaign of vilification and destabilisation is part of a broader strategy to weaken Tinubu’s support base in the North, with minister of state defence, Bello Mohammed Matawalle, being the primary target.”

According to him, the continuous attacks on key Tinubu allies are part of a broader scheme to destabilise the government and prevent his potential reelection for a second term in 2027.

The AYCF lamented and viewed the actions as desperate attempts by power seekers to halt the administration’s progress and reverse its anti-corruption efforts.

He added, “The AYCF views these actions as a calculated attempt to dismantle the President’s support network and thwart his chances of securing a second term in office.”

Describing the efforts of the anti-Tinubu forces as too early, the AYCF warned against the deliberate propagation of false narratives and the use of obscure groups to undermine the President’s allies and tarnish his reputation.

The AYCF, therefore, called on President Tinubu and his team to remain vigilant and resolute in their commitment to the nation’s progress, urging the President to be wary of the propaganda campaigns being orchestrated against his administration and to stay focused on delivering on his promises to the Nigerian people.

“It is imperative for the government to stay focused on its goals, remain resilient in the face of these challenges, and work towards ensuring a stable and prosperous future for Nigeria. The administration must anticipate and counteract these moves in order to safeguard the progress and development of the nation,” he advised.

The AYCF said it finds it ridiculous for any group to assess and judge an administration that is barely one-year-old against a set of incredible expectations and unfair standards of judgement.

Rivers State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice Pro. Zacehaeus Adangor, SAN, has formally resigned his appointment as a commissioner in the cabinet of the Rivers State government, led by governor Siminalayi Fubara.

His resignation letter was dated 24th April 2024, and it is coming hours after a minor cabinet reshuffle that affected him.

With the cabinet reshuffle, Prof Adangor, who was the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, was redeployed to the Ministry of Special Duties, (Governor’s Office).

He accused Governor Fubara of interfering with his duties as the Attorney General, alleging that the governor had directed him not to defend or oppose suits filed against the Attorney-General and the Government of Rivers State by individuals sponsored by the state government.

Adangor said “My attention has been drawn to your letter dated 23rd April, 2024 and widely circulated on social media whereby I was “deployed to the Ministry of Special Duties (Governor’s Office).

“Further to the referenced letter, I hereby give you notice of my rejection of the said redeployment with the effect from 24th day April 2024.”

Prof Adangor said that he was no longer willing to continue to serve in the administration of governor Siminalayi Fubara in any capacity whatsoever.

“It is important to mention that the Governor of Rivers State had in the past couple of weeks willfully interfered with the performance of my duties as the Honourable Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice of Rivers State by directing me not to defend, oppose, or appear in cases instituted against the Honourable Attorney-General and the Government of Rivers State by persons admittedly hired and sponsored by the Government of Rivers State.”

Movie producer Stanley Nwoke, aka Stanley Ontop, posted the news of his demise on his Instagram page. 

Stanley wrote: “I regret to announce the passing on a veteran actor. What caused his death is yet to be reviewed. Rest in peace, good actor.” 

Adigwe began acting at the age of seven. He made his earliest television appearance in Baci and Company, taking over the lead role from Albert Egbe. 

His debut movie, Blood of the Orphan, earned him praise. In 2004, he starred in Living Abroad alongside Ernest Asuzu, Emeka Enyiocha, and Anne Njemanze. 

In 2019, he portrayed Pascal Nworie in Living in Bondage: Breaking Free.

The death of Adigwe would add to the growing list of actors who have passed away.

Over the past four months, Nollywood has lost six of its own, including Sisi Quadri, Mr. Ibu, Amaechi Muonagor, Andy Best, Jumoke Aderounmu, and Junior Pope.

Junior Pope drowned in the Anam River in Anambra State while returning from a movie shoot. 

Actress Jumoke Aderounmu, known for her role in Funke Akindele’s TV series, passed away at age 40. 

Veteran actor Amaechi Muonagor succumbed to kidney disease after a year-long battle. Nollywood producer and marketer Ikechukwu Nnadi, also known as Andy Best, passed away after a prolonged illness. 

Yoruba actor Sisi Quadri died from kidney-related issues and was laid to rest in his hometown of Iwo, Osun State. 

Concurrently, veteran actor Mr. Ibu passed away at Evercare Hospital following a prolonged illness, leaving the industry mourning the loss of a beloved figure who had played a significant role in many childhood memories.

Lead British International School in Abuja has been shut down for three days following a viral video depicting a disturbing incident of bullying within the school premises

The announcement was made during a press briefing attended by concerned parents on Tuesday at the school premises.

The decision to temporarily shut down the school comes in the wake of public outrage sparked by the circulating videos, which captured a female student being subjected to physical and emotional abuse by her peers.

The disturbing footage depicted the victim being repeatedly slapped by another female student in what appeared to be an interrogation session.

The incident prompted widespread condemnation and calls for swift action to address the issue of bullying within the school community.

Abraham Ogunkambi, the Head of Lead British International School, issued a statement on Tuesday, in response to the incident.

He stated the school’s disapproval of the incident and confirmed the launch of an investigation into the matter.

“The school management is treating this matter with the utmost seriousness,” Ogunkambi asserted.

He mentioned that the school has already reached out to the victim and her parents, providing them with necessary support and counseling services to manage the emotional and psychological consequences of the incident.

In a courageous act, the family of a bride-to-be and a group of passengers thwarted a kidnapping attempt by killing a terrorist in Zamfara State.

PRNigeria reports that the incident unfolded when the family of the bride-to-be and other travellers were ambushed by bandits along the Talata Mafara-Gusau highway.

The bride’s family had embarked on a journey to purchase clothing and other wedding materials in Kano. However, their plans took a harrowing turn when armed bandits targeted them.

An eyewitness, who spoke to PRNigeria, revealed that the response was spontaneous once the bandits had selected their victims.

Despite one of the bandits managing to escape, the brave passengers captured two AK-47 rifles.

Narrating how the events unfolded, the eyewitness said: “A few kilometres away from the Fangal Tama checkpoint, the travellers heard gunshots echoing all around.

‘’To their shock, they encountered two well-armed bandits on motorcycles, blocking the road and halting vehicles.
“The bandits immediately ordered the young woman (the bride-to-be), her father, mother, and two other relatives to exit their car.

‘’With guns pointed at them, the terrified family members were coerced to follow the bandits into the nearby forest.
“Realising the grave danger they faced in forced abduction, the passengers decided to act swiftly. They rallied together and launched an attack on one of the two bandits.

‘’In a fierce struggle, they managed to overpower him, resulting in his instant death. The other bandit, however, escaped, leaving behind his firearm.

“The courageous group retrieved the two guns and emerged from the forest. They promptly handed the weapons over to the military at a nearby checkpoint.’’

PRNigeria further gathered that amidst the courageous effort of the group, one of the passengers suffered a sudden heart attack due to the traumatic experience and later died in

Nollywood actor, Olanrewaju James, popularly known as Baba Ijesha, has asked the Court of Appeal, Lagos Division, to set aside his conviction by a Lagos State High Court over the sexual assault of a minor.

Justice Oluwatoyin Taiwo (retd.) of the Ikeja Domestic Violence and Sexual Offences Court, on Thursday, July 14, 2022, sentenced Baba Ijesha to five years imprisonment over the sexual assault of a minor.

But dissatisfied with the judgment, Baba Ijesha approached the appeal court to challenge his five-year jail term.

Baba Ijesha through his counsel, Kayode Olabiran on Tuesday, April 23, told the appeal court that his client was set up and that he acted according to a script that he was invited to act on by his colleague.

“The Appellant was set up. The Appellant is an actor. He acted in a script that he was invited to act by his colleague (PW1), Damilola Adekoya,” he said.

But the Director of Public Prosecution, Dr Babajide Martins, urged the court to dismiss the appeal for lacking in merit and also a misconception.

He urged the court to affirm the judgment of the lower court.

The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Ola Olukoyede, has revealed that endemic corruption in the Nigerian public sector is systemic.

He also noted that saints would be contaminated if brought into the Nigerian public sector.

Olukoyede made the development known on Tuesday while fielding questions from journalists at the EFCC headquarters, Jabi, Abuja.

He commented on the alleged money laundering cases involving former Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika, and suspended Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Betta Edu, among others.

Olukoyede said, “There are things that we cannot give out to the public. Some of the things were given yesterday, you must have discovered that, and you are still going to find out. You will also agree with me that as media people, there is what we call informatics; some of us do not even read.

“Some of us just pick what these people write about us on social media and run with it. It is not about Hadi Sirika, like I told you, there is nothing personal. It is about the system, the process, it’s about national interest.

“So don’t make it look like EFCC is running after Hadi Sirika, no it’s a system. If you ask me that are we investigating issues that have to do with the issue of aviation, l will tell you yes we are investigating it. When the time comes for you to know the details of our report, I’ll tell you. But for now, it is premature for me to tell you.

On Edu, the EFCC chairman said the commission had released a comprehensive statement.

He continued, “I don’t know why you people have singled out only Betta Edu. As I am talking to you now, we have established so much in that place, not only Betta Edu. What I am doing is not about Betta Edu, it’s not about any man, I have told you before that it’s about the system that will allow someone to access the agency’s account and roll out 7 billion under one hour without assigning it to any specific project.

“I told you before that the people we suspended, if we replace them by now, even if we brought saints, within 24 hours, the saints will be contaminated. It is not about any man. It is about the system. It is the system I am investigating.

“So let us understand how these things work and have that mindset. If we had gone after Betta Edu and hundreds of people were stealing money, do you think it started during Betta Edu?”

He added “Every single money that was allocated in that ministry is what we are investigating. I told you before that we are investigating over 50 accounts. You must understand some of these processes.

“For each account, we write letters to banks and these banks take two to three weeks to respond, we interview, it takes time. There are agencies you write letters to and they won’t respond until you go there and threaten to arrest. Do you know what it means to sit down and investigate 50 accounts one after the other and diligently?

“There are still people who are innocent victims. I will now begin to mention their names not because I want to impress Nigerians. You must also respect the lives of these people. I didn’t come out to say I have indicted persons but what I’ve come out to say is that I’ve recovered amount.

“So give us time. We are just five months into this investigation. There are some correspondences we are expecting from abroad. Some money was traced to some accounts that if we did not do diligent work, by the time they rushed you to court, they would say ‘EFCC your head is not correct’.

“If this investigation on Nigeria is going to take me one or two years to do, I will do it. My sister spoke about one lawyer, who went to court and said EFCC is an illegal body. This thing that corruption does to our conscience in this country,” he added.