Ridoola's blog

He noted that the product had been deregulated, hence the differential in prices was due to transportation as it is related to location. The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) has denied the alleged plan by the association to increase pump price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) also known as petrol to ₦700 per litre nationwide. The Chairman of IPMAN Southwest Zone, Alhaji Dele Tajudeen , stated this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Ibadan on Friday The chairman, therefore, urged Nigerians to disregard the speculation and not to engage in panic buying. Tajudeen stressed that the price of the product would not be more that what is being sold presently. He commended President Bola Tinubu for removing the subsidy on petrol adding that it was long overdue. “Even in PIA bill, it has been clearly stated that the subsidy must be removed, ”So, I want to commend him for removing the subsidy and I want to say that we are in support totally.

ASUU accused the NUC of trying to impose a half-baked curriculum on the Nigerian University System. The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has kicked against the proposed Core Curriculum Minimum Academic Standards (CCMAS) prepared by the National Universities Commission (NUC). The union described as nightmarish the CCMAS model, adding that its adoption isn't only a threat to quality education but also an erosion of the powers currently wielded by Senates of Nigerian universities. ASUU expressed its displeasure in a statement signed by its National President, Prof. Emmanuel Osodeke , on Friday, June 30, 2023. It said it's unexplainable that NUC was trying to impose on the Nigerian University System its pre-packaged 70 per cent CCMAS contents, lamenting that university Senates, who are statutorily responsible for academic programme development, were left to work on only 30 per cent. The union also noted that there have been growing concerns about the numerous shortc

Former president Buhari explains what sent him running to distant location. Muhammadu Buhari, the immediate past president of Nigeria, has divulged the motive behind his departure from Daura, Katsina State, to seek solace in London. In a statement issued by Garba Shehu, Buhari's former spokesperson, on Thursday, June 29, 2023, it was clarified that the former president relocated to London in search of a tranquil environment. Since his return to his hometown of Daura following the conclusion of his second term as president, a steady stream of visitors has flocked to see him, disrupting his quest for serenity. Shehu commented, " Having initially chosen to reside in Daura, hoping to find the much-desired tranquility, the constant influx of visitors throughout the day and night forced him to seek a more remote abode." Buhari expressed his earnest desire to obtain the necessary rest he requires while fostering a conducive atmosphere for the Tinubu administration to fulfill

Ahead of the 2023 elections,, all the leading presidential candidates promised to remove the fuel subsidy. President Bola Tinubu has again offered an explanation on why he removed the controversial fuel subsidy, which led to the high cost of petroleum across the country. On Monday, May 29, 2023, while delivering his first speech as Nigeria’s President, Tinubu declared that ‘subsidy is gone.’ The declaration automatically led to an astronomic increase in the price of petrol as fuel prices jumped from ₦185 to over ₦500 in many parts of the country. Recall that ahead of the 2023 presidential election, all the leading presidential candidates including Tinubu promised to remove the fuel subsidy if elected. The candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi repeatedly described the scheme as an organised crime . He suggested that money spent on petrol subsidy should be channelled into social development. However, while speaking in Lagos on Thursday, June 29, 2023, when he was hosted by Gove

The command’s spokesman said that the suspects would soon be prosecuted in court for alleged murder. Three suspects alleged to have killed Sub-Lt. Samuel Akingbohun of the Nigerian Navy in Idoani, Ose Local Government Area of Ondo State, have been arrested by the police. Parading the suspects before journalists on Thursday in Akure, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, SP Funmilayo Odunlami-Omisanya , said that the men were arrested while trying to flee the community afterwards. She said that two of the suspects were aged 20, while the third was 17. The command’s spokesperson said investigation revealed that a misunderstanding ensued between the naval officer and one of the suspects, which led to a fight. Odunlami-Omisanya said that the two other suspects later joined in the fight, and one of the suspects struck the officer with an iron rod on the head and groin. “ Later, Akingbohun became unconscious, and was rushed to the hospital in the town where he was confirmed

Vice President Kashim Shettima has assured Nigerians that the administration of President Bola Tinubu will promptly address the infrastructural deficits in the country. Shettima gave the assurance on Wednesday, June 28 2023 in Maiduguri when he paid a Sallah homage to the Shehu of Borno, Alhaji Abubakar Ibn Garbai El-Kanemi. He said that all the infrastructural challenges in the country would be addressed, including the Gamboru Ngala, Dikwa and well as Damboa Roads in Borno. “ The Shehu of Borno raised some very poignant issues facing the society, especially with regards to infrastructural deficit. “The Shehu talked about issues concerning the roads that should be immediately addressed, especially the Gamboru Ngala and Dikwa Roads. Certainly, it would be addressed and that of Damboa will also be addressed. “I am here to assure the Shehu of the maximum support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and that all the challenges confronting us as a people would be surmounted, “ he said. In

The ICPC also rejected a recent court ruling that ordered it to pay N1m damages to Ojerinde over his re-arrest on January 26 on the court premise. The corruption allegations against a former Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Prof. Dibu Ojerinde pile up as the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) accused him of forgery. The ICPC is currently prosecuting Ojerinde for alleged N5bn fraud. Compounding the allegations against him, the anti-graft agency in a statement on Wednesday, June 28, 2023, accused the former JAMB boss of forging names to perpetrate fraud. The agency alleged that Ojerinde “ used several false names, aliases, and forged means of identification such as Akanbi Lamidi, Adeniyi Banji, Habibulahi Lamidi, Joshua Olaniran Olakuleyin, etc to perpetrate his corrupt practices through various bank accounts and still retains the resources and influence to evade justice.” The ICPC also rejected a recent court

Tinubu is set to visit some monarchs in the South West state. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is scheduled to pay homage to monarchs in Abeokuta and Ijebu-Ode in Ogun State on Thursday, June 29, 2023. The President's convoy will stop at the palace of Awujale and Paramount ruler of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona in Ijebu-Ode before proceeding to the Alake of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Gbadebo , in the state capital. This was contained in an invitation letter sent out to All Progressives Congress (APC) leaders and supporters in the state on Wednesday by an aide to Governor Dapo Abiodun , Babatunde Olaotan . Olaotan, however, was silent on why Tinubu is embarking on the trip. The invitation simply read, “ You’re cordially invited by Governor Dapo Abiodun – CON to welcome His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu – GCFR who will be paying us a visit tomorrow, 29th of June, 2023 in Ijebu-Ode and Abeokuta. “All our party leaders, elders and supporters in Ogun East Senatorial District sho

Nigerians have been charged to commit to making sacrifices for the progress and stability of the country. President Bola Tinubu said this during an interview on Wednesday, 28 June 2023 in Lagos after the Eld-el-Kabir prayers. He called upon both leaders and followers to adopt attitudes that would propel the nation to greater heights. Tinubu stressed the need for deliberate commitment from both leadership and citizens alike. “ May our sacrifices turn to prosperity. We’ve to make sacrifices and that is clear. “But Allah will not give you the burden that you cannot carry; He will not. He is there for you. “Have faith in the country, have faith in yourselves, believing as a citizen of this country that it will be well with us. “You must join hands to live together without religious or tribal sentiments. Live with one another in joy and prosperity. “Nigeria will see peace and stability and God will grant those in the warfront victory and peace and spare their lives,” Tinubu said. H

President Bola Tinubu has joined other Nigerian Muslims to perform the Eid-el-Kabir prayers at the Dodan Barracks Praying Ground in Lagos. The president was accompanied by Mr Nuhu Ribadu, National Security Adviser, Mr Femi Gbajabiamila, Chief of Staff to the President, Mr Babatunde Fashola, a former Lagos State Governor and other top government functionaries. In his sermon, the Chief Imam of Lagos, Sheikh Suleiman Abu-Nolah , said that the festivity promotes the culture of sacrifice, unity and tolerance among the Muslim faithful. “ The religion does not permit the practice of selfishness, intolerance or sectionalism. “We should use the occasion to reflect on the various challenges facing the country and use it to rectify whatever is our challenge through prayer to God Almighty. ” The Chief Imam prayed for the continued peace, progress and stability of Nigeria and called on all Nigerians to imbibe the values of Prophet Ibrahim. Mr Femi Hamzat , Deputy Governor of Lagos State, urged

Emphasising that Eld-el-Kabir transcends the mere act of sacrificing a ram, the Union called for a focus on the true essence of the festival. The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ekiti State Council, has conveyed its heartfelt congratulations to Muslim journalists in the state on the occasion of this year's Eld-el-Kabir celebration. In a statement jointly issued by Rotimi Ojomoyela, Chairman of the Union, and Kayode Babatuyi, Secretary, the NUJ encouraged the Muslim community to partake in the festivities in a moderate manner, considering the limitations imposed by their current circumstances. Recognising the demanding nature of their profession, which often keeps them away from their families, the Union urged the faithful to seize the opportunity presented by the festive period to relax, enjoy meals, and cherish the company of their loved ones. Addressing the concerns surrounding the recent surge in commodity prices, the statement implored Muslim journalists not to be dish

World Bank says fuel subsidy removal has pushed millions of Nigerians into poverty already, compensatory measures are necessary to mitigate the impact. The World Bank has revealed that the removal of fuel subsidies in Nigeria has resulted in the impoverishment of over four million people in the country during the first half of 2023. If targeted measures are not implemented promptly, an additional 7.1 million Nigerians are projected to fall into poverty by the end of the year. The Washington-based institution emphasised the importance of compensating transfers to protect vulnerable households from the initial price shocks caused by the subsidy reform. During the launch of the Nigeria Development Update in Abuja, the World Bank highlighted that the removal of petrol subsidies and the implementation of foreign exchange (FX) reforms are crucial steps towards addressing longstanding macroeconomic imbalances. These reforms have the potential to establish a solid foundation for sustainable

Chidoka also asked Tinubu to remove charges on bank transfers saying the banks enrich themselves with the charges. Osita Chidoka, former Minister of Aviation has challenged President Bola Tinubu to take action regarding the conduct of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and its chairman, Mahmood Yakubu over the 2023 general elections. Chidoka while speaking on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics on Monday, June 26, 2023, asked the president to remove Yakubu the same way he sacked the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Godwin Emefiele. “ For the kind of uproar that the election caused, the way he went after the CBN governor is the way I think he should have set up a panel to look into INEC ,” the PDP chieftain said. “It would have been totally unimportant if he faced what I considered the critical issues about Nigerians making their choices.” Chidoka also asked Tinubu to remove charges on bank transfers saying the banks enrich themselves with the charges.

Vice President Kashim Shettima says the Federal Government will ensure quick access to single digit loans for Nigerian small businesses. The vice president made this pledge on Tuesday, 27 June 2023 in a message to mark the 2023 World Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Day. He said that the Federal Government was aware of the impact of fuel subsidy removal on MSMEs and was working towards addressing it. “ On this World MSME Day, the government of President Tinubu recognises the vital role that MSMEs play in driving economic growth, creating jobs, and promoting innovation. “We remain committed to providing support, fostering an enabling environment, and improving access to finance for MSMEs, especially in these unprecedented times. “We urge all stakeholders to come together to champion the growth and success of MSMEs to achieve sustainable development for all. “We also recognise the plethora of issues that face MSMEs as a result of the subsidy removal. “ However, the govern

President Tinubu will return to Lagos, where he’ll observe his first Sallah celebration as president. President Bola Tinubu is expected to return home today ahead of Eid-el-Kabir celebrations. The President after his first official trip to France where he attended a summit for ‘A New Global Financing Pact’ headed for London ‘for a short private visit’ on Saturday, June 24, 2023. “Tinubu, who was initially scheduled to be back in Abuja on Saturday, will now proceed to London, United Kingdom, for a short private visit ”, the President’s Special Adviser on Special Duties, Communication and Strategy, Dele Alake disclosed in a statement. Although the statement was silent on the particular day of Tinubu’s return, Alake said the “President will be back in the country in time for the upcoming Eid-el-Kabir festival.” Corroborating this, a Presidency source confirmed to Pulse that the president would return to the country today. Asked if the president will return to the country today, T

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ogun Council, has described late Prof. Lai Oso, a Mass Communication Lecturer of the Lagos State University (LASU) as an encyclopedia of communication theories. In a statement issued on Monday, 26 June 2023 in Abeokuta, jointly signed by its Chairman, Wale Olanrewaju and Secretary, Bunmi Adigun, the union also described the late professor as a father figure who built many ”libraries in human being”. Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ogun Council, describes late Prof. Lai Oso, a Mass Communication Lecturer of the Lagos State University (LASU) as an encyclopedia of communication theories. The union said; “The news of the death of Prof. Oso in a motor accident while returning from Abraka, Delta State on Saturday, was very devastating. ” The death has thrown the journalism industry into mourning as the industry has lost yet again an encyclopedia of communication theories, a teacher, a father figure, someone who built many libraries in human b

Zipline begins delivering blood to health facilities in Kaduna. Zipline is an American company that designs, manufactures, and operates delivery drones. In a statement issued by the company on Monday, 26 June 2023, it has began flying blood products to health facilities in Kaduna. It said that as part of the company’s corporate social responsibility they have decided to commence the delivery of processed blood products for the first time to health facilities in the state to save lives. Zipline said that since August 2022, it had been delivering medical products to several health facilities within Kaduna as part of their partnership with the state government. It noted that health officials said the timely delivery of their products had largely improved healthcare delivery as cases of referral of patients on the ground of non-availability of medicines have really reduced. The General Manager of Zipline, Ms Catherine Odiase said: ” the company is committed to ensuring that all patie

The prices of cooking gas have undergone a reduction of 6.07% compared to the figures from the previous month. In its recent publication of the "Cooking Gas Price Watch" for May 2023, the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) revealed a decline in the average price of a 5kg cooking gas canister. According to the report, the average price dropped from ₦4,642.27, recorded in April 2023, to ₦4,360.69 in May 2023. This decrease represents a 6.07% reduction compared to the previous month's figures. However, when compared to May 2022, the average price reflects an 11.20% increase from ₦3,921.35. Analysing the data on a state-by-state basis, the NBS found that Bayelsa had the highest average price of ₦5,016.67 for a 5kg cooking gas canister. Following closely, Zamfara reported an average price of ₦5,000.00, while Abuja recorded ₦4,900.00. On the other end of the spectrum, Ondo reported the lowest average price at ₦3,795.83. Nasarawa and Edo followed with prices of ₦3,800.00 an

The Man of God said he has forgiven Happi Boys and withdrawn the curses he laid on them. General Overseer of Omega Power Ministries (OPM), Apostle Chibuzor Chinyere, has denied abandoning the family of late Deborah Samuel, after relocating them to Port Harcourt from Sokoto. Samuel was brutally murdered in Sokoto by an angry mob of Muslim students after she was accused of insulting Prophet Mohammed. Chinyere denied the accusation at a news conference in Port Harcourt on Sunday, while reacting to allegations levelled against the church’s philanthropic works in recent times. The conference had the parents and siblings of the slain Deborah in attendance. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that Deborah’s parents, Emmanuel and Alheri Samuel were recently quoted as saying they were abandoned by the pastor after he relocated them from Sokoto. They said the 14 self-contained estate and car presented to them were for media hype while the restaurant given to Alheri to support the fami

They stressed that they came to clear away all the grasses in order to beautify the Mosque premises and the general environment. Christians on Saturday joined Muslims to clear grass at the Kaduna Mosque praying ground as a way to strengthen ethnic and religious relationship. Ms Jessica Akila and Mercy Bajumi , members of the community Peace Observers (CPO) in Kachia local government area and working under the Community Initiatives to Promote Peace (CIPP) in Kaduna State, explained that they attended the exercise which took place at the Eid praying ground in Kaduna. They disclosed that their action was part of efforts towards strengthening peaceful coexistence and religious tolerance among different faith communities in Kaduna and the country. According to them, this is the second time some volunteer Christian youths, women, religious and community elders in Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State have taken part and joined their Muslims brothers and sisters in large number to

The exercise started with the biometric capture of the governor, his deputy and the Speaker of the House of Assembly at the governor’s office on Friday. Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun has commenced staff audit across the public service with a plan to fill existing vacancies within the education, health and other sub-sectors in the state. This is contained in a statement by Malam Olawale Rasheed , the Spokesperson for the governor, on Saturday in Osogbo. The statement said the exercise started with the biometric capture of the governor, his deputy and the Speaker of the House of Assembly at the governor’s office on Friday. It said that data capturing was preceded by a close door meeting with the state labour leaders, where processes and procedures were concluded to ensure the protection and fulfilment of the interest of all stakeholders. The statement said that the governor assured that the exercise was not a witch-hunt, but to strengthen the capacity of the state government to s

He advised the general public to deal with only qualified personnel in matters of drug abuse while condemning all forms of stigma against drug users. The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) says that though the challenges associated with drug abuse are complex, they remain solvable. The Commander of the NDLEA in Imo, Abubakar Wali , said this at an inter school competition organized by the agency in Owerri, on Saturday, as part of activities marking the year 2023 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that June 26 of every year was set aside by United Nations General Assembly in 1989 to mark the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking. The theme for year 2023 is : “People First: Stop Stigma and Discrimination, Strengthen Prevention.“ Wali, a Commander of Narcotics, harped on the need for a people-centered approach to drug policies, with a focus on human rights, compassion and evidence bas

The former COAS commended troops for the achievements and urged them not to relent but redouble their efforts to ensure that the country is secured. The Nigerian Army on Saturday, pulled out of service, the immediate past Chief of Army Staff, retired Lt.-Gen. Faruk Yahaya, following the change of leadership of the Armed Forces of Nigeria by President Bola Tinubu. Tinubu had on June 17, approved the appointment of new service chiefs, marking the retirement of the erstwhile chiefs from the service of the armed forces. Pulling Out Parade is a traditional military ceremony to mark officers’ retirement from service which involves review of parade by the retiring senior officer, March past by troops and pull out if the retired officer by top Generals. In his valedictory speech, Gen. Yahaya thanked God for a successful career that saw him through the ranks and reaching the peak as the chief of army staff. He said that whatever had a beginning must have an end, saying that Saturday, June

The Ankpa council boss, Usman, said virtually all the defectors were strong grassroot stakeholders from Ankpa, who have been harvested by party chieftains from the area. Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi on Friday received more defectors from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Ankpa Local Government Area into the APC at the Government House, Lokoja. Receiving the defectors alongside their supporters, Bello assured them that they would be treated tenderly and given equal privileges just like founding party members, because “Kogi All Progressives Congress (APC) doesn’t discriminate”. The governor commended the defectors for their resilience, dedication and resolution to identify with the APC. He welcomed them, saying from now onward they are fully part of the renewed Kogi which his administration is building for the good of all residents in the state. Bello was appreciative of a former deputy speaker of the state, Rabiu Alfa , for his loyalty and dedication, while commending the Cha

Abubakar said that drug addiction was a medical condition that required treatment and rehabilitation, and not punishment. The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Tincan Special Area Command, has urged Nigerians to view drug users as persons in need of help rather than criminals. Mohammed Abubakar , Commander of Narcotics of the command, made the appeal during an advocacy walk to drive the ‘War Against Drug Abuse’ (WADA) in Lagos on Friday. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the walk was in commemoration of International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking. It is observed every year on June 26 to raise awareness about the dangers of drug abuse and the illicit drug trade. NAN also reports that the NDLEA, with some sister security agencies like the Nigerian Police and the Nigeria Customs Service, toured the Tincan port axis. This year’s celebration is with the theme: “People First; Stop Stigmatisation and Discrimination, Strengthen Prevention”. Abuba

The respondents prayed the court to give them till next week to go home and celebrate the Sallah with their families and come back by July 3 to open their case. Peter Obi and his Labour Party (LP) on Friday closed their petition before the Presidential Election Petition Court (PEPC) challenging the election of President Bola Tinubu. Obi and LP are complainants in the petition marked CA/PEPC/03/2023, challenging the election which brought Tinubu to power on May 29. Respondents in the petition are the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima and All Progressives Congress (APC). The petitioners were given 21 days to prove their case against the respondents before the court. They told the court that they would call 50 witnesses to prove their case, but as they were closing on Friday, they called only 13 witnesses. Earlier, Counsel to the petitioners, Livy Uzoukwu SAN, informed the court that their 12th witness, Yunusa Tanko, was in co

Tinubu said Alake and Edun had removed subsidy removal from his inaugural speech. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has explained why he went off the script to announce the removal of fuel subsidy during his inaugural address to Nigerians on May 29, 2023. The President disclosed this during a meeting with members of the Nigerian community in France on Friday, June 23, 2023. Tinubu, who described fuel subsidy as a " scam " and disincentive to growth, insisted that the policy only rewarded smugglers and reduced the burden of the real cost of the commodity for some countries. This is contained in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Special Duties, Communication and Strategy, Dele Alake , later on Friday. Addressing the Nigerian diaspora in France, the President revealed that his Special Adviser on Monetary Policy, Wale Edun and Alake had expunged fuel subsidy removal from his inaugural speech, “ but he felt it was expedient to stop the subsidy on the first day”. “We ha

NAN reports that in an apparent anticipation of the measure, Umahi had approved specified amounts of money for the commissioners to build or get new abodes. The Ebonyi government has given former Gov. David Umahi’s commissioners two weeks to quit the state-owned residential quarters they are occupying in Abakaliki. The notice is contained in a statement signed by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Prof. Grace Umezurike , and made available to newsmen on Thursday night. Umezurike, in the statement, said that the measure is in line with Gov. Francis Nwifuru’s directives. “All residents of the commissioners’ quarters are hereby requested to vacate their premises. ‘This is to facilitate the entry of the new commissioners into the quarters. “We apologise for any inconvenience caused,” the statement indicated. The statement urged the affected persons to take immediate note and comply accordingly. NAN reports that in an apparent anticipation of the measure, Umahi had approv

Nigeria bags the highest number of ranked universities, with 37 entries. South Africa closely follows with nine universities... Covenant University, a private academic institution located in Ota, Nigeria, has garnered recognition by securing a spot among the top 10 universities in Africa. The esteemed Times Higher Education (THE) recently unveiled its inaugural Sub-Saharan Africa University Rankings for 2023, positioning Covenant University at an impressive seventh place. While the University of the Witwatersrand in Johannesburg, South Africa, claimed the coveted title of the continent's best university, Covenant University stands as the sole Nigerian representative within the top 10. Securing the second-highest position on the list is the University of Johannesburg, also situated in South Africa. Furthermore, the Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences in Tanzania captured the third spot, further demonstrating the diverse array of institutions highlighted in the ran

Perignon commended all the members for their commitment and steadfastness to the growth of the party. A member of the Lagos State Governing Advisory Council (GAC) Cardinal James Odunmbaku has assured non-indigenes of President Bola Tinubu’s consideration on political appointments. Odunmbaku, popularly known in Lagos as Baba Eto , gave the assurance at the Indomitable Tinubu Support Organisation (ITSO) Victory Appreciation Party in Ikeja, Lagos on Thursday. Odunmbaku noted that the appointments would be based on merit and competence, regardless of tribe because Lagos state remained a metropolitan city. The APC chieftain gave hope to the dedicated members, adding that they would be appreciated and compensated accordingly by the President. Odunmbaku added that all hands must be on deck to move the state forward to achieve the greater Lagos dream. ”Lagos state has been yearning for progress of every sector, so, as long as you are a Nigerian and you find your way to Lagos, the governm

The Rep member said he never asked Obi to withdraw his petition against President Tinubu. A Labour Party member of the House of Representatives, Chief Amobi Ogah, has disowned comments attributed to him, suggesting that the party's presidential candidate in the last general elections, Peter Obi, should concede defeat to President Bola Tinubu. The member, representing the Isuikwuato-Umunneochi federal constituency of Abia State, made the clarifications following a widespread claim that he asked Obi to withdraw his petition against the President at the Election Petition Tribunal Court (PEPC). Ogah, in a rebuttal statement issued on Thursday, June 22, 2023, accused some blackmailers of inventing and propagating the falsehood in order to pitch him against his party and teeming supporters. The lawmaker, therefore, urged members of the public, especially the Labour Party faithful, to disregard any social media reports linking him to such remarks. He insisted that his comment, which

Okpor said Gov. Francis Nwifuru was saddened by the kilings which he described as ‘heartbreaking’. The Ebonyi government on Wednesday, said it will soon apprehend the killers of Mr Sunday Igwe, a staff of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in the state. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that Igwe was killed by gunmen along Mpu (Enugu)-Ishiagu (Ebonyi) road on June 18 and his wife who was traveling with him, abducted. The gunmen also killed Mr Ajah Okafor, Father to Leader of the Ohaneze Ndigbo socio-cultural organisation’s youth wing, Damian Okafor on his farm while fleeing with the abducted woman. Mr Jude Okpor , the state Commissioner for Information and Orientation revealed the government’s resolve on Wednesday during his maiden state Executive Council (EXCO) meeting briefing. Okpor said Gov. Francis Nwifuru was saddened by the kilings which he described as ‘heartbreaking’. “Security issues are not discussed in public but the government will do ever

Bill Gates alongside Aliko Dangote met with President Tinubu on Monday. The co-chairman of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Bill Gates, has revealed what he discussed with President Bola Tinubu during his visit to the Presidential Villa. Gates alongside the President of Aliko Dangote Foundation, Aliko Dangote met with the President on Monday, June 19, 2023. Speaking at an event co-hosted by the Lagos Business School and Co-Creation Hub (CcHub), in partnership with Africa.com and Channels Television on Wednesday, June 6, 2023, Gates said he advised President Tinubu to prioritise the health sector. He said, “I had a chance to meet with the newly elected President (Tinubu) and to encourage him that as resources are being allocated, he needs to keep the challenges of equity in mind. We really do need to drive access to the key building blocks, for example, in the Health sector where there is a limited budget. You cannot run a good primary healthcare system. You can’t get vacc

The proposal still requires executive and legislative approvals before it can be implemented. The Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) has already sent President Bola Tinubu a controversial proposal for the 114% increment of the basic salaries of political, judicial and public officers. The agency commenced a review of the remuneration of the officers last year, and has proposed the increment after a 15-year gap since the last review. The proposal has caused outrage across the country, especially in light of the economic struggles of many Nigerians - struggles that have become more straining since Tinubu assumed office on May 29, 2023 . While defending the increment during an Arise TV interview on Wednesday, June 21, Hassan Usman , an RMAFC federal commissioner, said the review was a well-considered process. He said, "The consumer price index (CPI) from 2008 to 2022 has increased scientifically by 371%, but we didn't review these salaries by 371%

Bill Gates said having a big diaspora is a healthy thing for Nigeria. The co-chairman of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Bill Gates, has highlighted how Nigeria can profit from the Japa phenomenon in the long run. Japa is a Yoruba locution used to describe the recent surge in the number of young Nigerian professionals leaving the country for greener pastures. Meanwhile, Gates added his voice to the ongoing conversation about the Japa phenomenon while speaking during an interactive session with innovators on 'Advancing Africa: Unleashing the Power of Youth in Science and Innovation’ held in Lagos State on Wednesday, June 21, 2023. The Microsoft co-founder believed that having a “big diaspora” can spur skilled Nigerians to return to the country to set up businesses and join the government. “In a sense, people leaving is a good thing, if you up the amount of training you’re doing.” “Having a big diaspora that includes people coming back into business, into government –

Malpass says Tinubu has taken important steps to address currency instability, inflation and corruption in Nigeria. The immediate-past President of the World Bank Group, David Malpass has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his policy decisions in the past three weeks. Malpass shared his view about Tinubu’s three-week-old administration while commenting on a Financial Times’ report about the steps the president has taken so far. The report titled “ Economic overhaul raises hopes for Nigeria’s new leader” highlighted Tinubu’s policy decisions and the possible challenges his administration would face. President Bola Tinubu [Presidency] Sharing the report on Twitter on Wednesday, June 21, 2023, Malpass expressed delight over President Tinubu’s socio-economic policies, saying the president has taken important steps to address economic issues in Nigeria. “ Glad to see @officialABAT taking concrete steps to scrap Nigeria’s harmful government subsidies and multiple exchange r

The development is in line with the State Government's plans towards ensuring a safe and secured Cross River. Governor of Cross River State, Senator Prince Bassey Otu has declared a total ban on the operations of commercial motorcycles within Calabar metropolis. According to a statement by Emmanuel Ogbeche, the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Senator Bassey arrived at the decision after due consultations with key Security Chiefs in the state. The development according to the statement is said to be in line with the State Government's plans towards ensuring a safe and secured Cross River. The statement reads in part, “His Excellency Senator Prince Bassey Otu, after due consultation with key Security Chiefs in the state, has directed as follows: "A total ban on the activities of all commercial motorcyclists within the Calabar metropolis. "Those willing to use their motorcycles to earn a decent living are restricted only to remote areas away from the city c

Buhari approved that the structure be renamed after Babangida. The Federal Government of Nigeria has taken a significant step to honor the late Mrs Maryam Babangida by renaming the National Centre for Women Development (NCWD) after her. This decision reflects the profound impact of her initiatives on women, particularly those residing in rural areas. Addressing journalists in Abuja on Tuesday, June 20, 2023, Monilola Udoh, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs, revealed that the Senate passed the bill for the name change on March 29, 2023, followed by the House of Representatives on April 5, 2023. Udoh highlighted that this renaming aligns with the amendment of the National Centre for Women Development Act, Cap. N15, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004, aimed at enhancing the center's functions. She stated, "During the previous administration under President Muhammadu Buhari, the bill was approved and assented to in May 2023. We urge our es

Iwuanyanwu asked the media to be circumspect in what they publish about Ohanaeze and to seek clearance from Ohanaeze leadership before going public. The Ohaneze Ndigbo Worldwide, has disowned one Mazi Okwu Nnabuike who parades himself as the President General, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide. The group said that Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide was not known to the organs and structures of the group, adding that it was a strange non-existent mischievous contrivance for narrow personal interests. Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu , the President-General of Ohaneze Ndigbo stated this in a statement, issued by the group’s National Publicity Secretary, Dr Alex Ogbonnia, on Tuesday in Enugu. According to Iwuanyanwu, it is a thing of grave concern to every Igbo adult that of all the ethnic groups in Nigeria, only the Igbo that a few unrepentant wary transgressors is recruited to tarnish and belittle the only apex umbrella body for which the Igbo are known. “The Ohanaeze Ndigbo a