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Law and Order, News

Defence Ministry Directs Relocation of Military Chiefs to Sokoto to Combat Banditry and Terrorism

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The Minister of State for Defence, H.E. Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, MON, has expressed his sadness over the activities of terrorists and bandits terrorizing Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina, and Kebbi States and its environs. To address this, Dr. Matawalle has directed the Chief of Defence Staff and other military chiefs to relocate to Sokoto, which is the headquarters of the GOC Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina, and Kebbi states.

“This strategic move underscores the unwavering commitment of the government to restoring peace and security in the region,” Dr. Matawalle said. “While in the North West, they will supervise operations and ensure that Bello Turji and his bandits gang are flushed out.”

Dr. Matawalle condemned the recent incident where bandits circulated videos of a Nigerian military Armoured vehicle stuck in a water-logged area, saying it was “not acceptable.” He assured that the Federal Government is deeply concerned about the persistent threat posed by banditry and terrorism in the North West and is ready to deploy all necessary assets to ensure that these criminal elements are flushed out.

“The time is up for these bandits and terrorists as increased and consistent operations will weaken all their bases,” Dr. Matawalle stated. “I will be on the ground in the North West with the CDS and other military chiefs, leading our brave men and women in uniform.”

Dr. Matawalle called on the people of Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina, and Kebbi states to remain vigilant and cooperate with the Security forces, reiterating the Federal Government’s resolve to protect the lives and properties of all Nigerians.

“The security and well-being of the people remain the government’s top priority,” he emphasized.

The statement reads:
“The Honourable Minister of State for Defence H.E Dr Bello Muhammed Matawalle MON has expressed his sadness over the activities of terrorists and Bandits terrorizing Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina and kebbi States and its environs.

“Consequent to this the Honourable Minister of State has directed the Chief of Defence Staff and other military chiefs to move to Sokoto which is the Headquarters of the GOC Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina and kebbi states with him as part of an intensified effort by the Federal Government to rid the North West of the menace of banditry, kidnapping and terrorism.

“This strategic move underscores the unwavering commitment of the government to restoring peace and security in the region. While in the North West, they will supervise operations and ensure that Bello Turji and his Bandits gang are flushed out.

“These criminal Bandits have been circulating videos of a Nigerian military Armoured vehicle that was stuck in a water-logged area and late in the night the officers were asked to withdraw to avoid being ambushed by bandits, later in the night the bandits went to the water-logged area, recording video of the Armoured vehicle that was stuck and celebrating it. This incident happened in Kwashabawa, Zurmi local government Area of Zamfara state. This is not acceptable as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR has been giving great support to the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

“The Federal Government is deeply concerned about the persistent threat posed by banditry and terrorism in the North West particularly. We are ready to deploy all necessary assets to ensure that these criminal elements are flushed out and peace is restored to our communities, Dr Matawalle stated. We must move against these terrorists to enable our people to move freely.

“The time is up for these bandits and terrorists as increased and consistent operations will weaken all their bases.
Matawalle hereby calls on the Armed forces of Nigeria to flush out the bandits and terrorists as his presence in the North West will ginger our armed forces.

“Matawalle further assured the people of Sokoto, Katsina, Zamfara, kebbi states and the entire North West region that the security forces will not leave any stone unturned until they flush out the bandits.
I will be on the ground in the North West with the CDS and other military chiefs, leading our brave men and women in uniform.

“In addition, the Honourable Minister of State for Defence also called on the people of Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina and kebbi states to remain vigilant and cooperate with the Security forces and he reiterated the Federal Government’s resolve to protect the lives and properties of all Nigerians, emphasizing that the security and well-being of the people remain the government’s top priority.”

Breaking News, Health, Law and Order, News

Revitalizing Primary Healthcare in Nigeria: ALGON Makes Strategic Move, To Hosts PHC-ROP

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The Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) is poised to revolutionize primary healthcare in Nigeria with its upcoming Technical Workshop on Primary Healthcare Revitalization and Operationalization Programme (PHC-ROP).

Scheduled for August 28th, 2024, in Abuja, this high-level event will bring together stakeholders to enhance primary healthcare service delivery across the country’s 774 Local Government Areas (LGAs).

In partnership with the Office of the Special Adviser on Health to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Federal Ministry of Health, and other key players, ALGON aims to boost institutional capacity and responsiveness in primary healthcare.

This initiative aligns with the President’s mandate to enforce the Supreme Court judgment on Local Governments’ autonomy and achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

News, Politics

Edo 2024: Accord Party Campaign Council Says Dr. Bright Enabulele Is The Epitome of Trust and Faith

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As the 2024 Edo State gubernatorial election approaches, one name stands out among the contenders: Dr. Bright Enabulele. With a reputation for integrity, dedication, and vision, Dr. Enabulele has garnered immense trust and faith from the people of Edo State, positioning him as a leading candidate for the top office.

“Dr. Bright Enabulele’s trustworthiness can be attributed to his years of service and humanitarian assistance to the people of Edo State,” said Prince Oshogwe Adenomoh, Media Spokesman for Dr. Enabulele, on behalf of the Edo Accord Party Governorship Campaign Council.

“Throughout his political career, he has remained committed to transparency, accountability, and putting the needs of his people above personal gains.”

He noted that Dr. Enabulele’s vision for Edo State is clear and inspiring, focusing on sustainable development, job creation, and improved infrastructure.

He explained that he aims to uplift the lives of all citizens, creating an environment where everyone has equal opportunities for growth and prosperity.

“Dr. Bright Enabulele’s experience in various leadership positions adds weight to his candidacy,” Adenomoh further noted.

“He is a cryptocurrency investor, real estate mogul, and financial consultant, and has actively participated in governance matters, demonstrating his competence and ability to navigate complex issues.”

Dr. Enabulele’s commitment to inclusive governance sets him apart. He believes in giving a voice to all segments of society and actively involving them in decision-making processes.

This approach, the campaign council said, ensures that policies and initiatives address the needs of the diverse population of Edo State.

“Edo State deserves a leader who puts the people first and works tirelessly to uplift every citizen,” Adenomoh emphasized. “Dr. Bright Enabulele embodies these qualities and has earned the trust and faith of the people. With his integrity, dedication, and vision, Dr. Bright is poised to be the man of trust and faith for the people of Edo State in the upcoming elections in September 2024.”

Business, Law and Order, News

CNPP Calls for NNPC Boss to Step Down Over Subsidy Scam, Fuel Scarcity

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The Conference of Nigeria Political Parties (CNPP) has called for the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) to be held accountable for Nigeria’s economic woes, citing allegations of subsidy scams, importation of substandard petroleum products, and mismanagement of the Port Harcourt Refinery.

According to the CNPP, in a statement signed by its Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Comrade James Ezema, the NNPC’s failures have resulted in a nationwide shortage of petrol, causing immense hardship for Nigerians.

The umbrella body of all registered political parties and political associations in Nigeria demands the suspension of NNPC’s Group Chief Executive Officer, Mele Kyari, and a thorough public probe into the allegations.

The CNPP argues that the NNPC’s leadership has been marked by controversy and failure, and its inability to address these issues makes it unfit to continue in its role. The organization also quotes Emir Sanusi’s statement that “people in NNPC don’t want their lucrative subsidy scam to end” as a damning indictment of the company’s leadership.

The CNPP recalls the 2022 incident where NNPC imported and supplied adulterated Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) in Nigeria, highlighting the need for accountability and transparency.

“We recall the 2022 incident where NNPC Limited, under Mele Kyari’s supervision, imported and supplied adulterated Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) in Nigeria.

“The company’s trading arm, Duke Oil, was involved in the importation of the substandard product, highlighting the need for accountability and transparency. MRS, one of the companies indicted in the alleged importation and supply of the petrol, revealed that NNPC Limited, through its trading arm, Duke Oil, supplied the cargoes of PMS purchased from international trader Litasco.

“The GCEO Mele Kyari said that NNPC investigation revealed the presence of Methanol and accused four companies: MRS, Emadeb/Hyde/AY Maikifi/Brittania-U Consortium, Oando, and Duke Oil of importing the four adulterated PMS cargoes.

“One of the companies Mele Kyari indicted in the alleged importation and supply of the bad petrol in 2022, is Duke Oil and none of the companies was prosecuted till date because Mele Kyari cannot probe and prosecute himself.

“Mele Kyari’s attempt to continue to play the victim, as displayed during his testimony before a Senate ad hoc committee investigating alleged economic sabotage in the petroleum industry, is unacceptable.

“His vow to reveal the truth about the company’s operations at the appropriate time rings hollow, given his history of controversy and failure”.

The political parties and political associations believe that there is no subsidy being paid by the NNPC and that Mele Kyari and the subsidy cartel are using petrol subsidy as a bait to sustain corruption.

The CNPP calls for a transparent, independent, and thorough probe into these allegations, with consequences for those found guilty of any wrongdoing.

The statement emphasizes that President Tinubu must act now to ensure that the Nigerian people get the truth and justice they deserve without further suffering and deprivation.

“We therefore demand that President Bola Tinubu takes immediate action to address these issues by suspending the Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Limited, Mele Kyari, and launching a thorough public probe into several allegations against the management of the NNPC Limited.

“One among many accusations, including incompetence, is subsidy scam allegations that are particularly egregious, and the reported statement by Emir Sanusi that “people in NNPC don’t want their lucrative subsidy scam to end” is a damning indictment of the company’s leadership.”

The CNPP added, “Mr President, it’s time to end the years of siege in the Nigeria’s oil industry and it’s time to hold NNPC Limited accountable by immediately suspending Mele Kyari and independently probing the subsidy scam and other allegations in the Nigeria’s upstream and downstream oil sectors to save the economy and minimise hunger.”

Breaking News, News, Opinion

Government Must Act: CCNN, 20 Affiliates Withdraw from Nationwide Protest, Present Demands

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The Concerned Citizens of Northern Nigeria (CCNN) has announced its withdrawal from the planned nationwide protest, citing concerns over potential risks and consequences.

This was made known by the Jigawa State Coordinator of the group, Muhammad Bello Aliyu at a press conference on Saturday.

The group, which initially participated in mobilizing people for the protest, has now prioritized peace and stability in the region.

In the press conference, the CCNN Jigawa State Chapter, representing 27 local government areas and 20 affiliate associations, explained that the decision was made after careful consideration and assessment of the potential risks.Government Must Act: CCNN Withdraws from Protest, Presents Demands

The group cited the devastating effects of protests in other countries and Nigeria’s own experience with the #EndSARS protest, which was hijacked by elements with ulterior motives.

“We cannot afford to repeat such a scenario in Northern Nigeria. We cannot afford to gamble with the security and well-being of our people,” said the CCNN.

Despite withdrawing from the protest, the group emphasized the need for the government to address the pressing issues of insecurity, hunger, and starvation. “Nigerians are suffering, and it is imperative that the government rises up to the occasion to find solutions to these issues,” said the CCNN.

The group presented specific demands to the government, including tackling insecurity, ending hardship, reversing the petrol price hike, and reducing electricity tariffs and tertiary institution fees.

The CCNN also criticized the promoters and sponsors of the protest, many of whom are diaspora Nigerians living and working abroad. “We will not provide a platform for conflict merchants to exploit the situation and worsen the suffering of our people,” said the group.

The CCNN then urged all concerned citizens to prioritize peace and stability in the region, working together to build a brighter future devoid of violence.

Law and Order, News, Politics

Northern Groups Slam 180 Lawmakers’ ‘Reckless’ Endorsement Of Terrorism

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The Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) has strongly condemned the recent call by 180 members of the House of Representatives Minority Caucus for the release of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), a group designated as a terrorist organization by the Nigerian government.

Comrade Jamilu Aliyu Charanchi, National Coordinator of the CNG, described the lawmakers’ demand as “reckless” and “a betrayal of the trust reposed in them by their constituents.”

He noted that the CNG had reported Kanu to the UN for his acts of terror against innocent Nigerians in 2017 and advocated for declaring his group a terrorist organization.

“This is a slap in the face of the Nigerian people, and a brazen attempt to subvert the rule of law and undermine the authority of the Nigerian judiciary,” Charanchi said. “We are shocked that lawmakers, including those from Northern Nigeria, are supporting the release of a terrorist being held on charges before a court of competent jurisdiction.”

The CNG recalled the Nigerian government’s declaration of Kanu as a terrorist on June 27, 2021, and his subsequent arrest and charging for his persistent call for anarchy in the nation, brutal killings of citizens, and destruction of properties.

The groups asked, “Where were they when Nnamdi Kanu and his people were killing and are still killing the Northerners in the east? Where were they when the properties of the Northerners were destroyed by him?”

The CNG leader also questioned the motivations of the lawmakers, saying, “Are they elected for their personal benefits or for the interest of the citizens? This is a clear case of legislative rascality, and we reject it in its entirety.”

CNG commended Hon. Aminu Jamo, representing Daura/Sandamu/Mai Adua federal constituency, for his courageous and patriotic act of publishing a disclaimer on the matter.

The coalition also called on Nigerians to rise up and reject this “travesty,” standing together against terrorism and those who enable it.

“We will not let the blood of our loved ones be in vain,” Charanchi said. “We will not let terrorism prevail. We urge Mr. President to ignore this reckless call and ensure that justice is served.”

News, Politics

Labour Party National Transition Committee Expresses Solidarity With Organised Labour On Struggle For National Minimum Wage

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… Says Workers’ Struggle Has Revealed Abure’s Paymasters

The National Transition Committee (NTC) of the Labour Party has stated that it stands in solidarity with Nigerian workers in their quest for a decent national minimum wage.

In a statement jointly signed by NTC Chairman and labour veteran, Comrade Abdulwaheed Omar, and the Secretary of the committee, Engr. Nnawuihe Nwauwa, the NTC officials also noted that by their action in “denouncing” the spirited efforts of organised labour through a nationwide strike which was a response to the nonchalant attitude of the current government to workers’ welfare, Julius Abure platoon of ragtag sycophants had revealed who their real paymasters are. 

The National Transition Committee of Labour Party stated that the party also “unequivocally supports” the nationwide strike action by organised labour, which was well received by Nigerian workers with high level of voluntary compliance. Chairman of the National Transition Committee (NTC) of Labour Party, Abdulwaheed Omar

The statement noted that as the entire country rallied behind the Nigeria Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress on the current struggle by Organised Labour for a decent national minimum wage for Nigerian workers, “the political wannabes recruited by one Mr. Julius Abure” released a puerile statement condemning the efforts of Labour for Nigerian workers.

The statement further stated that the latest infantile effort by Abure and his suspended dissidents to ingratiate themselves to the insensitive Federal Government led by President Tinubu and treacherously disparage organised labour in Nigeria has once again revealed to whom Abure and his ostracized political mob truly owe their loyalty and clarified the crass mismanagement of the Labour Party’s fortunes these past few years under the visionless and “shameless political merchants” headed by Abure, who have now in the process “inadvertently committed class suicide. Now, their ruin is complete!

The rest of the statement read as follows:

“Unfortunately, while Nigerians are applauding the NLC and TUC over a successful strike action and the principled position that workers deserve just wages, a few scoundrels masquerading as former Labour Party leaders chose this epoch of dire struggle for the survival of Nigerian workers to cast aspersion on the leadership of Organised Labour and the strike action.

“We are not surprised. The small company of journey men escorting Mr. Julius Abure to perfidy are political merchants. They have never believed in the working class ideals of Labour Party. For them, Labour Party is another “come and chop” party where nominations are sold to the highest bidder and the proceeds are squandered on ventures short on virtues. All that has changed!

“As part of the mandate given to the National Transition Committee (NT) by Labour Party Stakeholders to organise an all-inclusive and expansive National Convention of the Labour Party in tandem with the Consent judgment delivered by Justice Gabriel Kolawole and affirmed by an INEC brokered Terms of Settlement between the Nigeria Labour Congress and immediate past leadership of Labour Party, we urge all members of the Labour Party to reconcile themselves to the party’s working class ideology and ethos and to always act in its defence.

“The adornment of the badge of class consciousness, progressivism and egalitarianism is the crux of the Labour Party identity. This identity resonates with the rallying campaign message by the leader of the Labour Party and the Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, Mr. Peter Obi, that Nigeria must move from consumption to production. A productive economy must prioritise workers by paying the working class a living national minimum wage as a buffer against poverty and indignity.

“By denouncing the spirited efforts of Organised Labour through a nationwide strike which was a response to the nonchalant attitude of the current government to workers’ welfare, the Abure ragtag platoon of sycophants reveal who their real paymasters are.

“The National Transition Committee views this anti-party posture of Mr. Julius Abure and his minions as a further supply of adrenalin to quickly perfect plans for an authentic Labour Party National Convention which would be driven from grassroots to the national level, and which would produce leadership at all levels that represent the ideology, credentials and ethos of a Labour Party.

“Once again, we convey our solidarity with Organised Labour in Nigeria in the resilient struggle for social and wage justice. We shall overcome! Morning comes!” the statement concluded.

News, Politics

One-Year-In-Office: IPAC Enugu State Chapter Scores Mbah High

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The Inter Party Advisory Council (IPAC), Enugu State chapter, has scored the state Governor, Dr. Peter Ndubisi Mbah, very high on the anniversary of his one year in office.

Speaking to newsmen on the Governor’s one year in Enugu, the Chairman of the state IPAC, Hon. Obioma Nnamani; the Secretary, Chief Dr. Afam Ani; and the Publicity Secretary, Hon. Chiedozie Ugwu, said that “It was an impressive start full of great expectations”.

IPAC, the umbrella body of the 19 registered and INEC recognized Political parties in Nigeria, further stated that going by the numerous projects ongoing in the state, Governor Mbah has done very well in the past one year.IPAC and Governor Peter Mbah

IPAC also noted especially “the two hundred and sixty smart schools in the 260 political wards in Enugu State, the revitalization of Enugu State water scheme, the reconstruction of dilapidated roads in the city, the agricultural industrialization projects, the new health centers being constructed across the 260 wards of the state, the revamping of the famous hotel presidential Enugu, the international conference center under massive construction at the moment, the five star hotel whose foundation stone has been laid by His Excellency the governor and the concept of world class terminals in the state are among our indices for concluding that His Excellency Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah has done very well in the past one year.”

The political parties in the state maintained that “Like Oliver twist, the body implore him to do more because to whom much is given, much is also expected because the people of Enugu massively chose him as their Governor.”

Breaking News, News, Politics

Kano: Dahiru Bauchi Advices Sunusi to Leave Throne for Peace to Reign

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Sheikh Dahiru Usman Bauchi Foundation Calls for Respect of Rule of Law in Kano Emirate Dispute anf advises Sunusi Lamido Sunusi to give up the throne for peace to reign in the state.

The Foundation also called on the Kano State Government and the two emirs involved in the ongoing dispute to respect the rule of law in the interest of peace and stability in Kano State and Nigeria.

Speaking at a press conference in Bauchi, the Chairman of the Foundation, Sheikh Ibrahim Sheikh Dahiru, advised the emirs to take a vow of peace and brotherhood to save the lives of innocent people and allow peace to reign.

“In the interest of peace, we want justice to prevail. Since the court has intervened to maintain law and order, we expect each party to respect the rule of law,” Sheikh Ibrahim said.

The Foundation chided the Kano State Government’s decision to continue with the process of appointing the 16th Emir of Kano and dethroning the five emirs despite a court injunction.

Sheikh Ibrahim suggested that the current Emir, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, could learn from the example of Sayyidina Hassan, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), who left power to Mu’awiyyah in the interest of peace and brotherhood among the Muslim Ummah.

The Foundation also urged the National Assembly to amend the constitution and enact laws that will protect traditional rulers from being dethroned or appointed at the pleasure of politicians.

The Chairman called on the Kano State Government, the State House of Assembly, and the people of Kano to exercise caution and refrain from making decisions that may jeopardize the state’s stability and exacerbate the suffering of the people.

“We want the parties to work together to build a brighter future for the people of Kano State and Nigeria, where justice, peace, and prosperity reign, and where the rights and dignity of all citizens are upheld and respected,” he concluded.

Breaking News, News, Politics

ALGON Elects Hon Aminu Mu’azu Maifata As New National President

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Chairman of Lafia Local Government Council of Nasarawa State and Association of Local Governments Nigeria (ALGON), Nasarawa State chapter, Hon. Maifata Aminu Mu’azu, has emerged as the National President of the association.

He takes over from Hon. Kolade Alabi, who presided over the affairs of the association from April 2019 to March, 2024.

Until his election, Hon. Maifata Mu’azu served at the National Executive Council, (NEC) of ALGON as National Treasurer and National Deputy President respectively.

Hon. Mu’azu holds a Bachelor and Master’s degrees in Economics from the University of Jos and Nasarawa State University.

He was lecturer at the Nasarawa State Polytechnic, Lafia between 2003 and 2018. Hon. Mu’azu served as Special Adviser on Solid Mineral Development to the Governor Umaru Tanko Al-Makura of Nasarawa State from 2017 to 2018.

Hon. Maifata Mu’azu is expected to bring his tested intellect, proven and vast experience to bear in the acceleration of ALGON’s vision of promoting efficient and grassroot driven local government governance and pursue effective partnerships with critical national, state and international stakeholders.

He is happily married and the union is blessed with children.