‘How Onyeka Onwenu died in my presence’ – Peter Obi reveals late singer’s final moments

Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, on Wednesday revealed that late singer, Onyeka Onwenu, died in his presence in Lagos.




Onyeka Onwenu died on Tuesday night after attending the birthday ceremony of Stella Okoli, Managing Director of Emzor Pharmaceuticals.




Obi in a post on his official X handle said the singer collapsed at the event after a beautiful performance of her iconic songs and was rushed to a hospital in Victoria Island, Lagos.




He said despite the efforts of the medical personnel, the singer was unfortunately pronounced dead after about two hours.






Obi stated that it was a devastating moment for him witnessing the “tragic event that will forever be etched in my memory”.




“I was present at the event where the iconic song star, Onyeka Onwenu, performed a couple of her songs ending up with her famous song, ‘One Love Keep Us Together’.




“It was a beautiful performance, but little did we know it would be her final bow. Just about a few minutes after her performance, she sat down and drank some water and immediately collapsed, and was rushed to the hospital.




“I followed her to the hospital. I watched in pain as the doctors and medical staff fought tirelessly and battled to save her life, doing everything possible to bring her back to life but eventually came out with the sad news that she was gone. Despite their valiant efforts, she sadly passed away after over two hours of intense struggle.”




The former Anambra State governor extended his condolences to the family and associates of the deceased.




“My heart goes out to her children and family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time. May we find the strength and courage to bear this irreparable loss,” he added.

I cannot pay N70,000 minimum wage – Gombe Gov

 Governor Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State says it will be
difficult to meet the N70,000 minimum wage benchmark with the lean allocation
to the state.





 



President Bola Tinubu had recently assented to the minimum
wage following an agreement with joint labour unions.



 



In a meeting held with stakeholders on the planned
nationwide #Endbadgovernance protest at the banquet hall of Gombe Government
House, on Tuesday, Yahaya declared that he cannot pay the N70,000 minimum wage
and suspected that many other states are in the same predicament.



 



Yahaya commended the Federal Government for the initiative
made following the donation of rice to the state but expressed concern over the
delay in receiving the essential supplies in Gombe.



 





He explained, “We are yet to receive the Federal
Government’s 20 trucks of rice to Gombe State.”



 



He emphasised the state’s commitment to providing relief to
its citizens, citing previous palliative distributions and ongoing investments
in human capital development, education, health, and agriculture among others.



 



Speaking on the protest, Yahaya reiterated the importance of
peaceful and orderly conduct, acknowledging the role of civil society
organisations, labour unions, and traders in maintaining social stability and
economic resilience, while commenting on speaking on the planned National
protest.



 



He called for continued cooperation and dialogue to
collectively navigate the challenging times.

How I want to be buried – Onyeka Onwenu

 In a reflection shared three years ago, veteran Nigerian
singer and actress Onyeka Onwenu revealed her wishes for how she would like to
be remembered and buried.





 



The iconic artist, known for her powerful voice and
activism, was said to have died on Tuesday night at the Reddington Hospital in
Lagos after slumping at the birthday party of Mrs Stella Okoli.



 



“Do it quickly, quietly and privately,” Onwenu wrote in an
opinion piece on Premium Times in 2021, emphasising that her burial should be
devoid of unnecessary fanfare.



 



She urged her loved ones to “mourn, yes but not
excessively,” and to instead focus on celebrating her life with prayers and
light-hearted moments.





 



“Celebrate me with prayers, lunch or dinner afterwards.
Share some jokes about me and laugh.



 



“Make merriment and then go about your business. If my
friends want to celebrate me, they should do so while I am alive, so that I can
enjoy it with them, not when I am gone and have no idea about this. That is me
Onyeka Onwenu,” she said.



 



In her statement, Onwenu also touched on broader cultural
practices, condemning the lavish display of wealth often seen at Nigerian
burials.



 



She contrasted her own wishes with the extravagant funeral
of Obi Cubana’s mother, which sparked widespread debate across the country.



 



“I am very uncomfortable with the lavish display of wealth
on any occasion, especially in a time of hardship and lack for most others,”
she remarked, calling for more modest and meaningful ways to honour the
deceased.



 



Onwenu has had a multifaceted career, working in music,
film, advocacy, journalism and politics.



 



She has held various roles, including chairing the Imo State
Council for Arts and Culture and judging on the X Factor series.



 



Her music and writings have been widely recognised, with
notable songs including ‘One Love’ and ‘You and I’. She is also the author of
the book ‘My Father’s Daughter,’ an autobiography.

Fight poverty, invest in education to combat human trafficking – Peter Obi

The Labour Party, LP, presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, Peter Obi, has called on the government at all levels to fight poverty, invest in education and health as a panacea to combat human trafficking.




In a post via his X handle on Tuesday, Obi called for measures to combat the menace as the entire globe commemorates World Day against Trafficking in Persons.




While regretting that statistics showed Nigeria is hit hard by cases of human trafficking, Obi said human trafficking is slavery.




“Trafficking in persons remains a global societal issue that must be addressed, with measures devised to combat the menace.




“The 2024 Trafficking in Persons Report by the U.S. Department of State, classified Nigeria as a Tier 2 country, ranking us among countries whose governments do not fully comply with the Trafficking Victims Protection Act’s minimum standards but are making significant efforts to comply with those standards.




“The 2023 Global Slavery Index Report ranks Nigeria 38 out of 160 of the countries with the highest number of slaves which is about 1.6 million. The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons, NAPTIP, 2019-2022 statistics also show that 61 percent of human trafficking in Nigeria happens internally, while 39 percent is generated from cross-border trafficking,” he said.




The former governor of Anambra State tasked governments to address challenges of poverty, unemployment and porous borders which he blamed for Nigeria’s human trafficking cases.




He called for investment in education, health, and policies that will address poverty in the country, explaining that with a better and quality life, citizens will understand their rights as humans.

Paris 2024: Nigeria’s Super Falcons in make or mar battle against Japan

Today, Wednesday, Nigeria’s Super Falcons will hope to beat Japan to stand any chance of making it to the quarter-final of the Women’s football event at the ongoing Olympic Games in Paris, France.




The West Africans currently sit bottom in Group C after losing 1-0 against Brazil and Spain, respectively in their first two matches.




They have no points and are behind leaders, Spain, who top the group with six points.




Japan sits in second position with three points, while Brazil occupy the third position with three points also after two matches.




Nigeria are now condemned to beat Japan in their final group game, to stand a chance of qualifying to the last-8 as one of best losers in the Women’s football event.




Converting their chances in front of goal is very important when they face Japan as they will also need a lot of goals, coupled with a maximum of three points against the Asian champions.




Super Falcons head coach, Randy Waldrum had already expressed optimistic his team can still earn a berth in the knock-out stage




“The way the matches had gone, we still needed a result against Japan and had the chance of going through, so whether we lose or we draw, we still had the opportunity.




“I think if we beat Japan depending on what happens in Canada’s group since they have got six points,” Waldrum said.




Speaking with newsmen, respected journalist, Femi Fabunmi, said: “Judging by the standard set by the Super Falcons at the last World Cup, they have retrogressed a bit.




“Their performances so far at the Paris Olympics have been below par.




“Their offensive style of play has been practically dodgy.




“They should have at least gotten a draw against Spain having held them for 85th minutes but a few moments of loss of concentration cost them that game,” he said.




When asked if Waldrum’s side can still qualify to the quarter-final when they face Japan in their last Group game on Wednesday, Fabunmi added, “All the Falcons need to do is to try and defeat Japan in the last group game, then the last 8 will be sure for them.




“They can still qualify because there are 12 teams in the female category, six will automatically qualify and two 3rd best placed teams will make it to the quarter-final.”

Ndume rejects newly allocated office at National Assembly

Borno South Senator, Ali Ndume on Tuesday rejected a new office allocated to him by the Senate Service Committee.




Ndume said the new office does not reflect his seniority and posture as a high ranking senator.




The lawmaker’s decision was disclosed in a letter signed by his Chief Confidential Secretary, Yati Shuaibu Gawu.




The letter reads: “I am directed to inform you that Distinguished Senator Mohammed All Ndume has rejected the allocation of office number 3.10 by the Committee.




“This is because offices are traditionally allocated on seniority basis.




“Sen Ndume is the most Senior Senator after Sen Ahmad Lawan and will only occupy an office on the fourth floor.”




This is coming after Ndume was stripped of his position as the Senate Chief Whip.




The Senate took the decision after Ndume criticized President Bola Tinubu’s administration, alleging the the government is being run by kleptocrats who are only interested in looting the treasury.

#BBNaija: 24 housemates face possible eviction

24 housemates face possible eviction after Team Beta becomes the second pair to be saved after winning the show’s nomination challenge.




On Monday, team Beta, consisting of Tjay and Ben, played an impressive game in the arena.




Each housemate was tasked during the arena game to walk over the bins towards a basket full of ping pong balls and take them to the other empty basket.




After the challenge, team Beta had the most balls with seven, which saved them and Ndi Nne pair, who became the first custodians of the house from this week’s nominations, while other pairs are up for possible eviction.




According to Biggie’s new twist, the Mbadiwe Twins, who won the first heads of house, HoH, title will also be up for possible eviction,




Biggie had earlier announced that HoH will no longer have immunity. A change from previous seasons where HOH enjoyed immunity from eviction nominations and had veto power to save and replace housemates.




Pairs up for this week’s possible eviction are:




Aces (Topher and Sooj)




Doublekay (Kassia and Kellyrae)




Floruish (Dj Flo and Rhuthee)




Chekas (Chizoba and Onyeka)




Mbadiwe Twins (Ozee and Ocee)




Radicals (Fairme David and Michky)




Nelita (Anita and Queen Nelly)




Shatoria (Shaun and Victoria)




Tami (Damilola and Toyosi)




Streeze (Toby Forge and Mayor Frosh)




Wanni X Handi (Wanni and Handi)




Zinwe (Chinwe and Zion).

Politically release Nnamdi Kanu – Igbo World Congress tells Tinubu

The World Igbo Congress, WIC, has urged President Bola Tinubu to politically release Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB.




WIC said history would document Tinubu’s decision to release the IPOB leader who has been incarcerated since June 2021.




In a statement by its Chairman, Festus Okere and Secretary-General, Chris Ogara; WIC also acknowledged the recent, significant meeting of the Southeast governors, with




distinguished personalities, including the Obi of Onitsha, over Kanu’s continued detention.




The statement reads: “Among their unanimous decisions made public is their resolve to meet President




Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering release of our kinsman, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, which is justifiably overdue.




“World Igbo Congress is itching to hear the outcome of their agreed meeting. Time is the soul of the world. A prolonged inaction destroys peoples’ hope. Let actions speak louder than voice.




“WIC stands firmly with our governors in this overly concerned matter. We also recognize and salute all persons who have continued, in numerous documented occasions, to support the call for the release of Nnamdi Kanu.




“WIC, again, urges President Tinubu to politically release Mazi Nnamdi Kanu. History remains a true account of the past.”

Tinubu’s order on crude oil sale in Naira will save Nigeria $7.3bn yearly – Adedeji

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Revenue and Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service, Zacch Adedeji has said that Nigeria’s decision on sale of crude in Naira will save the country an estimated $7.3 billion annually.




Adedeji disclosed this on Monday justifying why President Tinubu ordered the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited to sell crude in Naira.




He noted on a month-on-month basis, the decision will reduce foreign expenditure by roughly $660 million.




The FIRS boss stressed that the move by the President would cut down on Nigeria’s heavy reliance on foreign exchange for crude oil imports which account for roughly 30 to 40 percent of its forex expenditure.




According to him, the decision will save the country an estimated annual savings of $7.3 billion and will reduce monthly forex expenditure on petroleum products by an estimated $660 million.




“Monthly, we spend roughly $660m in these exercises, and if you analyze that, that will give us $7.92bn savings annually,” he stated.




Recall that Tinubu, in a significant move on Monday, ordered NNPCL to sell crude to Dangote Refinery and other local refineries in Naira.




The move comes amid the crude supply crisis Dangote Refinery is grappling with in the oil and gas sector.

Fuel scarcity persists as long queues are seen nationwide

Many filling stations were shut in several states as the queues for Premium Motor Spirit, popularly called petrol, continued on Monday while depots rationed the volumes of PMS released to marketers.




In Abuja, NIger and Nasarawa states, several filling stations were shut, while the few ones that dispensed petrol recorded different levels of fuel queues.




The NNPC and Conoil filling stations along the Kubwa end of the Kubwa-Zuba expressway in Abuja had long queues of motorists who sought to buy petrol on Monday. Many other outlets including Salbas, Gegu Oil, and Eterna, among others that are located on the busy road, had no product to dispense and were closed.




In Niger State, one of our correspondents observed that the three NNPC retail outlets located between Zuba and Madalla were closed. Other outlets on the Zuba-Madalla axis of the expressway such as A.A Rano, B.A Bello, Total, A.Y Maikifi, Major Oil and Enyo were all shut on Monday.




Their closures led to massive queues at the only Mobil filling station in Madalla that was dispensing petrol on Monday when our correspondent toured the areas to observe the fuel supply situation.




As the queues persisted, depot owners continued to battle a low supply of petrol. One of our correspondents also observed that only the filling stations owned by the major marketers dispensed fuel to buyers on Monday amid long queues in some parts of Lagos and Ogun State.




It was observed that retail outlets owned by the independent marketers were under lock and key due to their inability to get fuel supply.




The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited retail outlet in Iyana-Woro had a long queue of vehicles waiting to buy petrol. The NNPC Retail outlets usually sell PMS at prices below N600/litre in Lagos, but dispense it at N617/litre in Abuja and environs.




Also, the Heyden filling station along Iyana-Woro, MRS at Alapere, Conoil, TotalEnergies, and Mobil along Alahusa Secretariat all had long queues as they sold a litre of PMS between N617 and N650.




Drivers who could not wait in the queues said they had to patronise the independent marketers who sell between N700 and N900/litre. The situation led to a rise in transport fares across Lagos and Ogun states.




A depot operator, who pleaded anonymity, confided in one of our correspondents that the few depots that had the product engaged in rationing on Monday.




“Nothing has changed as of Monday. The depot owners have started rationing the little they have. Depots are loading, but at snail speed, and this was occasioned by the paucity of product,” the source stated.




Another source hinted that it might take up to a week to restore normalcy, adding that the planned hunger protest might worsen the situation.




“This scarcity will be with us till the weekend because supply dislocation takes a minimum of one week to get to normalcy. If the movement of trucks during protest is affected, it will get worse,” he added.




Many petrol depots were dry as of Sunday, leading to fuel scarcity and attendant queues in Lagos, Ogun, parts of Abuja, Niger, and some other states across the country.




It was gathered that black marketers had since taken advantage of the situation, selling as high as N1,300/litre and N1,500/litre in parts of Lagos and Ogun states.




Long queues started building up at fuel stations in Abuja and Lagos on Friday and have persisted.




“The NNPC Ltd wishes to state that the tightness in fuel supply and distribution witnessed in some parts of Lagos and the FCT is a result of a hitch in the discharge operations of a couple of vessels,” NNPC Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Olufemi Soneye, had explained.




The company added that it was “working round the clock with all stakeholders to resolve the situation and restore normalcy in the operations.”




However, despite the assurance by the NNPC, the situation worsened as checks by our correspondents nationwide on Sunday showed that there were long queues at several filling stations across major cities.

S’court to hold valedictory session Aug 22 as CJN Ariwoola retires

The supreme court has announced that Olukayode Ariwoola will
retire as chief justice of Nigeria (CJN) on August 22.





 



In a notice on Monday, Festus Akande, supreme court
spokesperson, said a valedictory session would be held on the court premises in
honour of the CJN who would be clocking the retirement age of 70.



 



Akande also said the supreme court commenced its annual
vacation on Monday, July 22 and will resume a new legal year on Monday,
September 23, 2024.



 



“The supreme court’s 2023/2024 legal year ended on Friday,
19th July 2024,” the notice reads.



 





 “The court proceeded
on vacation on Monday,  22nd July 2024
and will resume for the 1st term 2024/2025 legal year on Monday, 23rd
September, 2024.



 



“However, the valedictory court session for the retiring
chief justice of Nigeria, Hon. justice Olukayode Ariwoola, GCON shall hold on
Thursday,  22nd August, 2024.



 



“The ceremony to usher in the 2024/2025 new legal year is
scheduled to hold on Monday, 30th September, 2024.”



 



Ariwoola was sworn in as substantive CJN by former President
Muhammadu Buhari on October 12, 2022 — four months after the controversial
resignation of Ibrahim Muhammad.



 



By convention, Ariwoola will be succeeded in an acting
capacity by Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, the next most senior justice of the apex court.



 



The National Judicial Council will then recommend a
substantive CJN to the president, who will then nominate the recommended
candidate to the senate for confirmation.

Hardship: APC State Chairmen plan counter rally against August 1 protest

The Forum of All Progressives Congress, APC, state chairmen
have vowed to embark on solidarity rallies across all political wards, local
governments and state capitals including Abuja FCT to re-echo the laudable
projects and the programs of President Bola Tinubu.



 



Secretary of the Forum, Alphonsus Eba while addressing a
press conference on Monday in Abuja said the forum would embark on a solidarity
rally over the August 1 planned protest.



 



The forum added that violent protest being contemplated by
the faceless group as contained in their charter of demand would annihilate the
democratic ideals to which all political parties subscribe.



 



The chairmen said while things appear to be tough today,
there was hope for a better tomorrow through the policies, programs and
projects of President Tinubu.



 





Eba said: “Against this background, in the next two weeks
commencing from today 29th July to 11th August 2024 and from this press
briefing, which shall follow with a solidarity rally by all structures of our
party across all political wards, LGAs and States capital including Abuja FCT,
we shall embark on a peaceful rally to re-echo the laudable projects and the
programs of President Tinubu with greater vigour to protect and defend our
democracy from any attack by hoodlums or some criminal elements who wants to
carry out violent protest



 



“This is unacceptable and we must resist it in the most
civil manner by sensitizing innocent and peace-loving people of our country
about the plans of failed politicians who want to get power through every
illegitimate means by inciting ignorant Nigerians to embark on violent
protest.”



 



The forum called on all patriotic Nigerians to resist any
attempt by anyone or any group of persons to intimidate them into unorganised
protest likely to endanger the peace of the nation.

August 1: Southern Kaduna Christian leaders warn youths against joining protest

The Southern Kaduna Christian Leaders Association (SKCLA) has advised youths not to participate in the planned nationwide protest but to allow for the total healing of the land after suffering several attacks in recent times.




The Chairman of the Association and Vision Pioneer of Throneroom Trust Ministry, Kafanchan, Apostle Dr. Emmanuel Nuhu Kure, made this call on the sidelines of a special Thanksgiving service for elected and appointed officers from Southern Kaduna. The event, organized by the association in collaboration with the Christian Association of Nigeria, Southern Kaduna Zone, was held on Sunday in Kafanchan.




Kure explained that although the region, like other parts of the country, is also experiencing hunger and harsh economic realities, it is unwise to join protests that might be hijacked by adversaries seeking to create crises, which could jeopardize the healing process.




He appealed to the people to give the government more time to address the decay caused by past administrations, especially now that the current government at both the federal and state levels has begun offering hope and inclusivity through appointments and project execution.




Earlier, the Vice Chairman of SKCLA and Catholic Bishop of Kafanchan Diocese, Most Rev. Julius Yakubu Kundi, explained that the program, themed “The Hands of Thanksgiving and Prayer,” was deliberately organized to remind the elected and appointed officers of their significant moral responsibility to represent the people.




He said, “We invited you here today to pray for you and to chart a new path for uniting our people, aligning our goals, hopes, and aspirations with the objectives of modern-day politics in which you are already actively involved.




“We are concerned about the disunity among you, the political elites—a problem we consider scandalous and detrimental to the growth of our people. Our desire for this service of Thanksgiving is to bless and entrust you into the hands of God for divine direction on how to manage these differences among yourselves and within the political parties in Southern Kaduna.”




The Guest Speaker and ECWA President, Reverend Dr. Job Ayuba Bagat Mallam, urged the elected and appointed officers to be faithful in all they do, take their work seriously, and chart a new course for the people of Southern Kaduna to offer them a new lease on life.




Responding on behalf of the other elected and appointed officers, the Member representing Zango-Kataf/Jaba Constituency at the House of Representatives, Mr. Amos Gwamna Magaji, thanked SKCLA for organizing the Thanksgiving and prayer program, describing it as exceptional.




Magaji noted that the event has further strengthened their relationship as elected and appointed representatives from one zone. He used the occasion to appeal to the people of the area not to participate in the planned August 1 protest against the government, citing the potential for unpleasant consequences if the protest is hijacked by hoodlums.

BREAKING: Planned Protest: FG issues circular to VCs over protection of staff, students, infrastructures

In view of the proposed national protest slated for August 1, the Federal Ministry of Education, has issued a circular to all Vice Chancellors of Nigerian Universities to guarantee the protection of staff, students and public infrastructures in their respective domain.




The circular issued through the National Universities Commission NUC, and signed by the Acting Executive Secretary, Dr Chris Maiyaki on Monday, morning acknowledged the right to protest but expressed fears about the potentials for violence.




The circular is titled: “Urgent Arrangements for the Security and Safety of University Staff, Students and Property During the Proposed Nationwide Protests”, emanated from the directive of the Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman




It reads, “the Minister of Education has directed that the attention of Vice- Chancellors of all Nigerian Universities be formally drawn to the plan by unknown groups to embark on nationwide protests. The Federal Government is not unaware of the right of any Nigerian to peaceful protest, but is concerned about the safety of staff, students and university property should there be any protest action.




“Consequently, the Honourable Minister has directed that Vice-Chancellors of all Nigerian Universities should take pro-active steps to ensure the security and safety of the university community, including staff and students.




“In addition, Vice-Chancellors are to please issue specific statements to assure staff and students of their safety.




“It is also advisable that students remain on campus to focus on their academic pursuits so as to avoid exposure to any potential danger during the planned protests.




“Please accept the renewed assurances of my highest considerations and best wishes”.

He’s not a mole – Peter Obi reveals only disagreement with Kenneth Okonkwo

The presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 general elections, Peter Obi, has reacted to Kenneth Okonkwo’s recent exit from the party and the Obidient Movement.




Okonkwo, who was the spokesperson for the Labour Party presidential campaign in the 2023 general election, announced he was dumping the party and the Obidient movement.




In a letter he shared on social media, Okonkwo put the majority of the blame on Peter Obi’s handling of the crisis rocking the party.




Peter Obi’s Spokesman, Yunusa Tanko, told newsmen on Monday that he had reached out to the former Anambra State Governor for his reaction to Okonkwo’s decision.




He said Obi told him that Okonkwo cannot be referred to as a mole in the Obidient family but a beloved brother.




“Following the announcement of the former Spokesperson of the Peter Obi Presidential Campaign Organization in the 2023 election, Kenneth Okonkwo that he was leaving both the Labour Party and the Obidients, I as Chief Spokesman of the Campaign contacted our principal Obi for his reaction.




“He told me he was sad by the development because he sees Okonkwo as a junior brother who played his role diligently during our struggle.




“Obi told me succinctly that Okonkwo cannot be called a mole in our family with the services he rendered and still renders in our struggle to create a new Nigeria that is possible.




“When I asked Obi if I could make his views on Okonkwo public he said yes because the public needs to know that there is no personal misunderstanding between us and Okonkwo but only a disagreement based on style and approach to problems.”

PDP accuses Police of bias, says 22 party members under watch over Benin Airport attack

The Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, has accused the State Command of the Nigeria Police Force of selective justice, alleging that about 22 members and leaders of the party have been penciled down to be arrested in connection with the Benin airport attack.




The attack occurred on July 18, 2024, when the reinstated deputy governor of the state, Philip Shaibu and the APC governorship candidate, Senator Monday Okpebholo arrived at the airport from Abuja.




The incident resulted to the death of Inspector Akor Onu, an orderly to the APC governorship candidate, while several persons sustained various degrees of gunshot injuries.




Speaking at a press briefing on Sunday, EDp State PDP chairman, Dr Tony Aziegbemi, alleged that 22 members and leaders of the party are currently under surveillance in connection with a petition written by the APC to the police.




Aziegbemi alleged that a tactical team of policemen were deployed from Abuja to arrest and harass the party’s members over the Benin airport attack.




He accused the police of acting on the APC petition while that of the PDP was not acted on.




In the same vein, he alleged that instances are abound where the police acted in manners that suggested that they are a wing of the APC.




But reacting to the allegations, the Edo State Commissioner of Police, Funsho Adegboye, said the case has been transferred to Force Headquarters in Abuja.




“I don’t know what they meant by selective justice. Let’s save your time, the case has been transferred to Abuja. Whatever observations or comments anybody has should be directed to Abuja,” he said.




Aziegbemi, addressing journalists on Sunday, said, “In the build-up to the Edo State Governorship election slated for September 21, it has become necessary to draw the attention of the general public to the trail of actions that pertains to selective justice being witnessed in the operations of the Nigeria Police Force at the State and National levels, in handling matters arising from Edo State.




“We have witnessed different instances in which the Police has acted in manners that suggest that they are a wing of the APC, preferring to rather attend to issues raised by APC and its agents and disregarding complaints by other actors in the polity, which portend an ominous sign as we approach the election in Edo State barely two months away.




“We will like to make reference to certain issues that have led us to this troubling juncture, seeing that the Police are critical stakeholders in ensuring a level playing field for the conduct of the elections.




“Firstly, a few weeks ago, the Deputy Director General, Media and Publicity for the Peoples Democratic Party Election Campaign Council, Reverend Olu Martins was invited and arrested by officers of the Nigeria Police Force based on a petition against him.




“Martins was subsequently arraigned in Court and granted bail after meeting the necessary bail conditions set by the trial Judge. The case was subsequently adjoined.




“Conversely, however, I, as the chairman of the PDP in Edo State wrote a petition over comments by the chairman of the State’s chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) where he threatened to mobilise and lead youths to stone the Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, which is clearly a recipe for violence and chaos in the State, given the sensitivity of the Office of the Governor.




“A video evidence of this threat and an accompanying petition was submitted to the Commissioner of Police in Edo State.




“Surprisingly, no action has been taken on the matter since the petition was submitted, unlike the swift manner in which the Police responded to the petition against the Deputy Director General, Media and Publicity for the PDP Campaign Council.




“On Thursday, July 18, thugs linked to the APC unleashed mayhem on innocent citizens along the Benin Airport Road, in the guise of welcoming the impeached Deputy Governor, Philip Shaibu and the Governorship candidate of the APC, Monday Okpebholo.




“The ensuing chaos led to the destruction of property of law abiding members of the public and the unfortunate death of a Police Officer.




“There are video evidence and a newspaper publication of this incident which clearly identified thugs and members of the APC who carried out this wanton destruction of property and breach of public peace.




“A petition, to which all the evidence was attached, was again submitted to the Commissioner of Police in Edo State. Unfortunately and predictably, the Police Commissioner has failed to act on this petition and none of the people have been arrested.




“Rather, they have deployed a tactical team of policemen from Abuja to arrest and harass at least 22 members and leaders of the PDP in Edo State, who are currently under heavy surveillance, in connection with the said public disturbance of Thursday, July 18, even though there is no evidence to show that they were at the scene of the said event.




“The Police, from their actions and inactions in the wake of the developments in Edo State, appear to be acting a script in selective justice, preferring and nitpicking the petitions over which it acts, preferring rather to be better disposed to attention to petitions raised by the APC.




“We are concerned about this pattern of abuse of justice dangerously perpetuated by the Nigeria Police Force, especially in the run-up to the September 21 governorship election.




“It portends a rather disturbing trend that must be checked in the interest of peace in the state,” he said.




Aziegbemi, however, advised the Police to keep to its professional mandate and not act as an instrument in the hands of politicians.




The state PDP chairman also called on the Inspector General of Police to ensure that the actual criminals are brought to book.




He further called on the IGP to safeguard and uphold democracy within the state, noting that the Police must be seen to uphold the Rule of Law.

2027: Peter Obi lacks capacity to lead Nigeria – Kenneth Okonkwo dumps Labour Party

The Spokesperson for the Labour Party presidential campaign in the 2023 general election, Keneth Okonkwo, has dumped the party.




Okonkwo majorly blamed the party’s presidential candidate for the last election, Peter Obi and the crisis rocking the party, for his decision.




The filmmaker cum politician also slammed the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP and the All Progressives Congress, APC, saying both parties are taking Nigeria nowhere.




He said the combined leadership of both parties “is trying to cripple Nigeria as this blessed country is now down economically.”




In a letter on Sunday, Okonkwo said the APC has left the people with no other option than to protest for their survival. As They “can see no hope for the future.”




The movie maker pointed out that only a solid political party with a solid grassroot base can wrestle “power from these kakistocracy and kleptocrats.”




Speaking, Okonkwo noted that “We also need a decisive leader who will be selfless enough, in boldness and bravery, to secure our victory, when the people vote for such leader, because these corrupt and incompetent leaders are not willing to conduct free and fair elections and will always grab, take power from any weak and indecisive candidate, and run away with it. ”




The politician, who is also a lawyer, described the judiciary as “electoral bandits who steal electoral victories at gunpoint in the public glare of everyone.”




Okonkwo said he is searching for such a “leader who has the integrity and also the commensurate charisma and bravery to mobilise the people to sustain the victory, in the event that Nigeria votes for such a person. The time for calm down is over.




He alleged that the 2023 election was stolen after all their labour and all they suffered to achieve victory, adding that “It is obvious that the judiciary will not give us democracy because of abuse of the judicial process. The people must take their destiny in their hands.”




“However, the person must be willing to be in the forefront of such endeavour. The suffering




Nigerians are going through now from the people they didn’t vote for, but who snatched power, cannot be allowed to continue. These people will still remain in power come 2027 unless a decisive leader emerges to stop them with the votes of the people.




“What is happening in Labour Party today has inspired in me a determination to chart a




new course for my political journey. After the 2023 general election, Nigerians, including me, had high hopes for the Labour Party.




“I believe that Peter Obi will seize the momentum and build a solid party of integrity that will have the solid base that we need to overthrow these kakistocracy and kleptocrats.




“He just needed to give the right directives and everyone will fall in line.




“I received my first shock when he publicly declared that he didn’t promise Nigerians to build a strong Labour Party, but to solve Nigeria’s problems.




“I was like, does it mean HE Peter Obi is not aware that without a solid party base, we are heading to nowhere politically? However, I continued in his defence believing he will still privately bring the needed solution to LP problems. to no avail.




“PO also publicly demanded that the Abure led National Working Committee must organise an all inclusive convention that will guarantee the participation of all members of the Labour Party in the choice of their leaders.




“This didn’t happen, and surprisingly, PO refused to disassociate himself from the shenanigans and criminal activities of the former NWC as their time had expired.




“Every member of the Labour Party is confused today as to the future of the Labour Party because of lack of leadership from PO over the party, and unfortunately, when they look up to me to tell them about PO’s standpoint, I sincerely have nothing to tell them because I don’t know myself. I cannot continue to speak on behalf of a leader that I do not know his stand on issues of great importance. I simply don’t know how to manipulate facts.




“I am shocked that PO could not openly support the noble efforts of the Labour Unions who founded the Labour Party as a base to fight for the welfare of workers to the extent that some of them are openly saying that PO is now the problem of LP.




“The Labour Unions now have the unfortunate situation where they are fighting criminals who want to hijack their party when an ordinary statement from PO would have brought the solution. I cannot continue with this ambivalence forever.




“I am of course in full support of the Labour Unions and other stakeholders who are now




compelled to fight for the soul of LP without the support of PO.




“However, the consequence is that I no longer have the confidence that PO has what it takes to build a party that can win these kakistocrats and kleptocrats, and above all, he has proved that even if the people vote for him, he doesn’t have what it takes to secure the mandate.




“I don’t intend to embark on such a campaign as we did in 2023, projecting a person who cannot sustain the victory even if he wins.




“It’s in this regard that I have decided to continue my political journey into the great Nigeria of our vision without Peter Obi. “

Navigating Forex Trading: The Essentials for Success

Forex trading has emerged as a popular investment avenue, attracting both seasoned investors and beginners. The allure of high returns and the excitement of trading currencies from around the globe contribute to its widespread appeal. However, to thrive in this dynamic market, traders must arm themselves with the right tools and knowledge. This article delves into essential aspects of forex trading, focusing on the importance of understanding currency pairs like AUD/USD and leveraging advanced trading platforms such as MT5.








Understanding Forex Trading

Forex, or foreign exchange, involves buying and selling currencies in pairs. Traders aim to profit from the fluctuations in exchange rates. Unlike stock markets, forex operates 24 hours a day, five days a week, providing ample opportunities for traders. However, the decentralized nature of forex markets means that they are influenced by a myriad of factors, including economic data, geopolitical events, and market sentiment.




The Importance of Currency Pairs

A fundamental concept in forex trading is the currency pair, which indicates the value of one currency relative to another. One of the popular pairs is AUD/USD, representing the Australian Dollar against the US Dollar. Understanding the factors that influence this pair is crucial for successful trading.




AUD/USD: A Closer Look

The AUD/USD pair is known for its volatility, influenced by factors such as commodity prices, interest rates, and economic data from both Australia and the United States. For instance, Australia's economy is heavily reliant on commodities like iron ore and gold. Therefore, fluctuations in commodity prices can significantly impact the AUDUSD exchange rate. Additionally, interest rate decisions by the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) and the Federal Reserve (Fed) play a pivotal role in the pair's movements.




To gain a competitive edge, traders should stay informed about economic indicators and news releases that impact the AUD/USD pair. Utilizing reliable sources and tools to analyze market trends can aid in making informed trading decisions.




Leveraging Advanced Trading Platforms

To navigate the complexities of forex trading effectively, having access to a robust trading platform is essential. One such platform is MetaTrader 5 (MT5), which offers a comprehensive suite of tools for traders.




Why Choose MT5?

MT5 is an advanced trading platform designed to cater to the needs of modern traders. It offers a wide range of features, including advanced charting tools, technical analysis indicators, and automated trading capabilities. These features enable traders to analyze market trends, develop trading strategies, and execute trades efficiently.




Key Features of MT5

Advanced Charting Tools: MT5 provides a variety of chart types and timeframes, allowing traders to conduct detailed technical analysis. Customizable chart settings help in identifying patterns and trends, enhancing trading strategies.

Technical Indicators: The platform offers a plethora of built-in indicators and the option to add custom ones. These indicators assist traders in making data-driven decisions by providing insights into market conditions.

Automated Trading: MT5 supports automated trading through Expert Advisors (EAs). Traders can create or use pre-built EAs to execute trades based on predetermined criteria, eliminating emotional bias and ensuring consistency.

Comprehensive Market Depth: MT5 provides detailed market depth information, offering transparency and better insight into market liquidity. This feature is particularly beneficial for high-frequency traders.

By leveraging the features of MT5, traders can enhance their trading performance and achieve their investment goals more efficiently.




Conclusion

Forex trading offers exciting opportunities for those willing to invest time and effort in understanding the market. Mastering currency pairs like AUD/USD and utilizing advanced trading platforms such as MT5 can significantly improve a trader's chances of success. Staying informed about market trends, employing technical analysis, and leveraging automation tools are essential steps toward becoming a proficient forex trader.




For those interested in exploring the intricacies of the AUD/USD pair, more information can be found. To experience the advanced features of MT5 and elevate your trading game, visit MT5 platform




Embark on your forex trading journey with the right knowledge and tools, and unlock the potential for financial growth in the world's largest financial market.

August 1: Shehu Sani reveals only way organisers will submit details to police

Former Nigerian Senator and activist, Shehu Sani has said the organisers of the planned August 1-10 hardship protest will submit their details to the Nigeria Police Force when they have been hypnotized or charmed.




Sani disclosed this in a statement on his X account on Saturday in reaction to the condition given by Nigeria Police to intended protesters.




Recall that the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun told the planners of the August 1–10 protests to submit their details to the commissioners of police in their respective states.




The IGP’s comment comes after a human rights activist, Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa, standing as solicitor for the planned protesters, requested that the police and Department of State Services, DSS, provide security.






Reacting to the development, Sani who led protests during the Military era in Nigeria, stressed that it is only when protesters have been charmed that they will provide their details to the police.




“The only way a protester can submit his name and address to the police is when he is charmed or ‘jazzed’ by a priest or a native doctor”, he said.




The planned August 1 protest had been a subject of debate in Nigeria’s public space.




The organizers of the protest gave the worsening economic hardship as justification for their agitation.

Order NAFDAC to review ban on sachet alcohol – Rep Ogah tells Tinubu

A member of the House of Representatives, Hon Chinedu Ogah, has called on President Bola Tinubu to order the Director General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, NAFDAC, Professor Moji Adeyeye, to review the ban on the production and sale of sachet alcohol in the country.




Ogah, who represents Ikwo/Ezza South Federal Constituency of Ebonyi State at the lower chamber, made the call in a statement on Saturday.




He stated that the ban had made over two million Nigerians to be out of job in different parts of the country.




He explained that a larger number of youths agitating for the nationwide protests were individuals who were laid off from over 20 indigenous factories.






According to him, the Distillers and Blenders Association of Nigeria, a sub-sector of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria with about 2.5 million workers, were affected by the ban on sachet alcohol.




The lawmaker, who is also the House of Representatives Committee Chairman on Reformatory Institutions, added that the affected 20 factories, worth trillions of Naira, have been closed down for over six months now.




“Over two million Nigerians are out of job because of the ban and these are the people agitating for the planned national protests in the country slated for August 1 to 10, 2024.




“The greatest form of agitation is coming from Nigerians domiciled in Lagos and Ogun States, where these factories are sited.




“These factories have been paying their taxes and so, after carrying out an overview on this development, we want Mr President to look into it as it demands urgent attention,” he said.

August 1: Arewa group kicks against protest, rallies support for FG

A group, the Arewa Youth for Peaceful Coexistence has said the present government is working in the interest of Nigeria and should be supported instead of being protested against.




Addressing newsmen in Abuja, the Chairman of the FCT Chapter of the group, Mr Mark Ogar said a protest could cause chaos and destabilize the economy of the nation.




“Today’s event is all about sensitization of Nigerians against the planned protest next week. We have come to realize the plans by some politically disgruntled elements to destabilize our economy, to cause chaos in FCT, hiding under the guise of a peaceful protest just like they did in Lagos during the EndSARS.”




“And we have noticed that this is the government that is on its feet to ameliorate our crisis and poverty. So we don’t think that it is thoughtful for any group or individual to come out against the government working in the interest of the people.”




Ogar advised Nigerians especially all sons and daughters of Arewa extraction to disassociate themselves from the planned nationwide protest, stressing that it was a plan to destabilize the nation and destroy infrastructures.




He explained that there were international economic challenges not peculiar to Nigeria, stressing that President Tinubu had continued to provide palliatives that would cushion the effect of fuel subsidy removal.




“Without any form of pretence, yes Nigerians are experiencing some form of economic hardship but I want to bring to your notice categorically that this situation is not peculiar to Nigeria alone, there are international economic challenges.




“If you go to Switzerland, if you go to Paris and other economies in the Western world, they’re experiencing the same challenges. But what is important, we have a responsive government, a government that is aware of our plights, a government that has created a lot of palliatives. A lot of economic shock absorbers to cushion the effects of this economic hardship on Nigerians.”




He advised those calling for such protests to study the recent crisis in Kenya which led to the destruction of government infrastructure and avoid the protests.




Ogar pointed out that in the Federal Capital Territory, the Minister, Nyesom Wike had achieved unbeatable developmental strides and that such protest could jeopardize his positive agenda.




He emphasized that Nigerians were passing through a phase and that the cooperation of every citizen would help bring a turnaround in the nation’s socio-economic development.

Ifeanyi Ubah’s death, a rude shock – Peter Obi

Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 general
elections, Peter Obi, has mourned the passing of Senator Ifeanyi Ubah.





 



Recall that Ifeanyi Ubah died in London on Saturday



 



Reacting to the development, Obi, in a statement on his X
handle, said Ubah’s death was a rude shock.



 



“I received a rude shock this morning, the news of the death
of my dear younger brother, and Senator Representing Anambra South Senatorial
District, Senator Ifeanyi Ubah.”



 





Obi recalled that he was welcomed by Ubah after attending
the burial of Chief Pius Onwuzo in Nnewi, Anambra State, on July 12th.



 



Obi also prayed that God should grant Ubah eternal rest.



 



“Senator Ubah personally welcomed me at the burial and
requested that I visit his house for lunch, to which I pleaded with him to
reschedule to another date as I already had several engagements for the day.



 



“During our discussions on the state of the nation, he told
me that he now understands my commitment to the progress of humanity and that
he aligns with it.



 



“He assured me that, despite our party differences, we would
work together as a family, in serving our people.



 



“Similarly, despite party differences, I commended him for
his contributions to a better humanity through his Ifeanyi Ubah Foundation, via
which he cared for the less privileged in society, by investing in their
education and health and pulling people out of poverty. I urged him to continue
in that direction.



 



“May God Almighty who called him home, at this time, forgive
his sins and grant him eternal rest, and grant his family, the entire Anambra
South Senatorial District; Anambra State; Nigeria; and all of us, the fortitude
to bear this sad irreplaceable loss.



 



“God Almighty protect and bless his family always.”

Iwuanyanwu: No need for Ohanaeze – Simon Ekpa-led BRGIE

The Simon Ekpa-led Biafra Republic Government In-Exile has claimed that there is no longer a need for Ohanaeze Ndigbo.




Ekpa spoke amid the recent death of Ohanaeze President-General, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu.




It could be recalled that Iwuanyanwu succeeded Prof George Obiozor, who passed away in December 2022.




The development has been attracting concerns.




Ekpa has now said with the deaths of two successive Ohanaeze presidents, there was no need for a replacement.




He said the people were tired of mourning and crying over Ohanaeze Ndigbo.




In a post on his X handle, the Biafra agitator wrote, “Anything Ohanaeze should cease in Biafraland, following the death of Iwuanyanwu.




“There should be nothing like Ohanaeze nor Ohanaeze election in Biafraland.”




“The time of Ohanaeze sorrow, tears in Biafraland is over,” he claimed.




Meanwhile, recall that Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, governors, the presidential candidate of Labour Party, in 2023, Peter Obi, Afenifere and other bigwigs have all expressed sadness over Iwuanyanwu’s demise.

August 1: Provide security for protesters — Adegboruwa writes police, DSS

A human rights activist, Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa, has notified the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, and the Director of the Department of State Services, DSS, Yusuf Bichi, requesting protection over a planned protest by a group known as the Take It Back Movement.




In the letter dated July 26, 2024, the senior advocate wrote as a solicitor to the Take It Back Movement, notifying the security agencies that the protest would commence from August 1 to 10, 2024.




He said the rallies would be held at Eagle Square in Abuja and other public spaces in the capital cities of the 36 states and the headquarters of the 774 local government councils.




Adegboruwa urged the leadership of the security agencies to make available the details of any of their officers or teams that will be assigned to cover the said rallies and processions.




His request comes against the background of warnings from security agencies and groups over the planned protest. On Thursday, DSS cautioned against the demonstrations, saying it had identified the sponsors.




While DSS agreed on the citizens’ right to protest, it claimed that some elements planned to hijack it.




“The plotters desire to use the intended violent outcome to smear the federal and sub-national governments, make them unpopular and pit them against the masses,” DSS spokesman Peter Afunanya said in a statement.




“The long-term objective is to achieve a regime change, especially at the centre,” he added.




The protest advocates cited bad government and the continued hardship caused by rising core and food inflation, at 34.19 per cent and 40.87 per cent, respectively, as reasons for the dissatisfaction.




Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu, governors and ministers pleaded with Nigerians to halt the planned protest.




Speaking with traditional rulers, led by the Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar, on Thursday, Tinubu said, “Nigeria is on the path of recovery.”




The president identified the commencement of the student loan scheme, the N70,000 new minimum wage and the establishment of the consumer credit initiative as reasons Nigerians should not embark on the proposed protest.

August 1: ‘It’s your fault, you caused it’ – Dele Momodu to Tinubu

Former Presidential aspirant, Dele Momodu, has blamed President Bola Tinubu for the current challenges bedevilling Nigerians that have sparked a planned protest nationwide.




Momodu, in an open letter to the president, posted on X, expressed worry over the difficulties ordinary Nigerians are going through and the perception that the President’s approach to governance has shifted.




He told President Tinubu that things have been very difficult for Nigerians, except for a privileged few since he actualised his ambition of becoming President.




“Unfortunately, things have not been easy for Nigerians (except members of the privilegentsia) since you realized your lifelong ambition. And let me be frank Sir. You caused it all. You did not realize that a country is much more complicated than a state.




“I’m sad and embarrassed that a fighter for Democracy is now saying Nigerians will not be allowed to congregate and demonstrate on the streets, something you and I enjoyed during the military regimes, at home and abroad.”




Momodu claimed that while he is against anarchy, he believes in managing potential threats without undermining democratic rights.




According to him, having engaged in peace initiatives in Sierra Leone, Liberia, and The Gambia, he would not support anarchy, assuring that any potential threat could be contained and nipped in the bud.




Momodu urged Tinubu to seek guidance from civil liberties advocates and to evaluate the effectiveness of Nigeria’s security agencies without resorting to authoritarian measures.




“Please Sir, go back to your original friends in civil liberties and seek their assistance. Then, use this opportunity to test the strength of your security architecture and the combat readiness of our security agencies.




“Ignore the advice of the hawks in your team. They have nothing to lose since they are mostly beneficiaries of what others died for,” he stated.

Budget probe: Reps give EFCC chairman 4-day ultimatum to honour invitation

The House of Representatives Committee on Financial Crimes has given Mr Ola Olukoyede, Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crime Commission, EFCC, till July 30 to appear before it over budgetary allocation issues.




The committee said that Olukoyede, along with his management team, should appear to answer questions relating to the commission’s budget performance and its challenges.




Rep. Obinna Onwusibe, the chairman of the committee, expressed the panel’s displeasure at an oversight of the commission’s office in Abuja.




The committee condemned what it described as the snobbish attitude of the chairman and the denial of the committee’s members access into the commission’s complex.




Following the denial of access into the commission’s complex, the committee members headed back to their bus and returned to the National Assembly.




The committee had visited the EFCC headquarters after communicating with the anti-graft agency and agreeing on a date for an oversight visit.




The committee was, however, surprisingly told that the chairman was called for an unexplained emergency development at the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).




Reacting, the committee chairman said: “In performing our constitutional functions we had written to the EFCC for this oversight visit.




“The latest letter to EFCC was last week and we all agreed that the oversight is going to be today.




“The essence of the oversight is for the committee to know the budget performance of the EFCC as appropriated by this National Assembly.




“That was exactly why we went and to also see other things, including the challenges being faced by the EFCC.”




He said the committee had requested that the chairman, and all the zonal commanders of the EFCC be invited today for us to interface with them.




“But, the committee also saw that they were not on ground,” he said.




The committee, however, resolved that it would not continue with the oversight and resolved further to summon the EFCC chairman and his team to appear before it.




“As far as we’re concerned, the functions and integrity of this 10th National Assembly cannot be taken for granted.




“We’ve written severally to the commission, requesting information and documents and are yet to get them,” he said.

23 Nigerian electricity workers die on duty in Q1 2024 – NERC

23 Nigerian electricity workers died in the line of duty in the first quarter of 2024.




This is according to the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission’s latest report.




The report by the Commission confirmed that 23 of the workers lost their lives in 55 accidents in the first quarter of 2024.




NERC disclosed that 31 others sustained injuries in the 55 accidents recorded in the period under review.




“The total number of accidents in 2024/Q1 was 55 which resulted in 31 injuries and 23 fatalities,” the report revealed.




A breakdown of the major causes of casualties (deaths and injuries) recorded in Q1 2024 are wire snaps – six deaths and six injuries; illegal/unauthorized access – five deaths and two injuries; acts of vandalism – two deaths and five injuries; unsafe acts/conditions – 10 deaths and 12 injuries; falls from height – two injuries.




The report said that out of the 54 casualties reported in the quarter, the licensees with the highest number of casualties were Eko Disco(13); Benin Disco (8); Jos Disco(6); and Aba Power (6).




“Cumulatively, Discos accounted for 96.30 percent of casualties recorded in 2024/Q1 continuing a trend observed in previous quarters (98.48 percent in 2023/Q4) that the distribution segment is the biggest contributor to safety issues experienced in the NESI (Nigeria Electricity Supply Industry”, the report partly reads.




The report is indicative of a lack of safety procedures in the Nigerian Electricity supply industry.

Ooni of Ife reveals what Tinubu told Traditional Rulers

Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, has said that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu urged Nigerians not contented with his administration to explore the option of voting him out in the 2027 presidential election.




According to the monarch, President Tinubu said this on Thursday when he held an emergency meeting with Traditional Rulers led by the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III amid looming hardship protests planned for August 1-10, 2024.




Ooni of Ife noted that Tinubu called for dialogue while reiterating his resolve to end the country’s economic hardship.




“The President has said, ‘Any leader that you don’t like, wait (until 2027) and vote him out.’ He is open to dialogue. We know that Nigeria faces many challenges. But are we going to destroy our nation by ourselves? Is that what we are all after?




“It is very difficult to build, but it is the easiest to destroy. We are all stakeholders in this country and are stronger as a nation than individually,” the Ooni of Ife said.




Recall that Tinubu said Nigeria’s economy is on the path of recovery and gave assurance of better days.




This comes amid rising dissatisfaction among Nigerians on the state of the economy as core and food inflation stood at 34.19 percent and 40.87 percent, respectively.

Edo guber: INEC discloses political party’s security concerns

The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, has disclosed the security concern that cropped up over the upcoming governorship election in Edo State.




The disclosure came from INEC chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu when he appeared before the joint Senate and House of Representatives Committee on Electoral Matters on Thursday.




His appearance was in preparation for the upcoming off-circle governorship elections in Edo and Ondo states.




He said that, at a point, the main concern of the electoral umpire in the Edo governorship election was security.




“When we were there, one of the political parties raised an issue in Edo about the likely deployment of the Edo State Security Network, ESSN. But immediately after we received the complaint, we headed to the office of the Commissioner of Police and summoned a meeting with all security agencies in Edo,” he said.




Prof. Yakubu said that INEC agreed to meet with all political parties.




“The Commissioner of Police told us and the party leaders that he would take up the matter with the state government. The issue at that time was the ongoing continuous voter registration and since then, I am not aware of any official complaints from any party or candidate on the role of the ESSN,” he said.

Ohanaeze President General, Iwuanyanwu is dead

The President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu has been reported dead.




We learnt that he passed on in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, on Thursday.




Details of his demise are yet to be confirmed as of the time of filing this report.




His family is yet to confirm the development.




He is the second President General of Ohanaeze to die in quick succession.

Tinubu in closed-door meeting with APC governors

President Bola Tinubu is currently meeting with the Progressive Governors’ Forum (PGF) at the State House, Abuja.




Though the agenda of the meeting could not be confirmed officially, it may not be unconnected to the planned nationwide protest kicking off from 1st of August.




The Chairman of the PGF and the Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, led the team of governors to the President’s office, along with the Chairman of the Nigeria’s Governors Forum, Governor Abdulrazaq Abdulrahman of Kwara State.




Also sighted was the reinstated Deputy Governor of Edo State, Philip Shuaibu; Bassey Otu of Cross River; Benue State Governor, Fr Hycinth Alia; Uba Sani of Kaduna State and Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi, amongst others.




The National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu and the ministers of Finance and Budget & Economic Planning, Wale Edun and Abubakar Bagudu, respectively, were also seen arriving at the President’s office.




The ongoing meeting is coming after an earlier meeting of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), which held on Wednesday evening, and follows the cancellation of the National Economic Council (NEC) meeting, earlier scheduled for noon Thursday.

CAC moves to delist inactive companies

The Corporate Affairs Commission, CAC, has said that it would delist companies that have not filed their annual reports in ten years.




A statement by the Commission on Wednesday said the full list of the dormant companies was available on its website.




The statement partly read, “This is to inform the general public that the commission under its powers contained in Section 692 (3) (4) of the Companies and Allied Matters Act No. 3 of 2020, intends to strike off from the Register, names of defunct or dormant companies that have not filed annual returns for 10 years.”




According to the commission, the companies are given 90 days from the date of the statement to file all outstanding annual returns to remove their names from the list.




“It is to be noted that it is illegal to carry on business with the name of a company that has been delisted from the register as such company is deemed to be dissolved,” it said.

August 1: Nnamdi Kanu, diaspora voting make list as organizers unveil 15 demands

Organizers of the planned nationwide protest, scheduled for August 1 to August 10, have unveiled their key demands from President Bola Tinubu’s government.




The nation’s economic situation has propelled citizens, particularly the youths, to plan a mass protest nationwide.




Despite efforts by the government to quell the move, the youths are insisting on embarking on the protest in the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Abuja.




Former presidential candidate of the African Action Congress, AAC, Omoyele Sowore, who is one of the organizers of the movement, forwarded the demands to our correspondent on Wednesday.




The looming protest titled, “Days of Rage”, “EndBadGovernance” is aimed at drawing the attention of the Federal Government to the economic situation of the country.




Among other things, the intending protesters want the FG to return the fuel subsidy, address issues in the power sector, release the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, Nnamdi Kanu from the custody of the Department of State Services, DSS, and allow for diaspora voting during general elections




According to Sowore, Nigerians are asking the FG to “Scrap the 1999 constitution and replace it with a people-made Constitution for the Federal Republic of Nigeria through a sovereign National Conference followed by a National Referendum.




“Toss the Senate arm of the Nigerian legislative system. Keep the House of Representatives and make lawmaking a part-time endeavour.




“Pay Nigerian workers a minimum wage of nothing less than N250,000 monthly.




“Invest heavily in education and give Nigerian students grants not loans. Aggressively pursue free and compulsory education for children across Nigeria.




“Release Mazi Nnamdi Kanu unconditionally and demilitarize the South East. All ENDSARS and political detainees must also be released and compensated.




“Rationalize public owned enterprises sold to government officials and cronies.




“Reinstate a corruption-free subsidy regime to reduce hunger, starvation and multidimensional poverty.




“Probe past and present Nigerian leaders, who have looted the treasury, recover their loot and deposit it in a special account to fund education, healthcare and infrastructure.




They are also demanding the “Restructuring of Nigeria to accommodate Nigeria’s diversity, resources control, decentralization and regional development.




“End banditry, terrorism and violent crimes. Reform security agencies to stop continuous human rights violations.




“Establishment of a special energy immediately to drive massive corruption-free power sector development.




“Immediate reconstitution of the electoral body, INEC to remove corrupt individuals and partisan hacks appointed to manipulate elections.




“Massive investment in public works and industrialization will help employ Nigeria’s teaming youths.




“Massive shake-ups in the Nigerian judiciary to remove cabals of corrupt generations of judges and judicial officers that continue denying citizens access to real justice.




“Diaspora voting”.




Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday appealed to Nigerians to shelve the planned protest, urging youths to keep faith and believe in the ability of his administration to transform Nigeria.