Latest News
Kano residents are facing a new wave of fuel price hikes as Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, soared to ₦1,200 per litre at several filling stations across the city.
According to Daily Trust, the development comes as the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) adjusts its pump prices to ₦904 per litre.
The surge in fuel prices has led to long queues at NNPCL outlets, where customers are scrambling to fill their tanks before the new price is fully implemented.
An official at one of the NNPCL stations, who preferred to remain anonymous, confirmed to the platform that they were awaiting directives to commence sales at the updated price.
This spike in fuel costs has further strained the pockets of Kano residents, many of whom are already grappling with the high cost of living.
The situation has also sparked concerns about the potential impact on transportation costs and the prices of goods and services, which are likely to rise as a result.
He said, “We just came this morning (Tuesday) and turned on our machines only to see the adjustment. You can see it for yourself. We are here now waiting for directives to start selling.”
Motorists in queue expressed concerns over the development.
Isah Muhammad said, “Where are we heading to in this country? How do we survive now? It’s very unfortunate we are witnessing this.”
Another motorist, Ibrahim Saleh, said, “I can recall when I used to sell petrol (black market). It was then ₦95. One day during the late President Shehu Musa Yar’adua regime, we went to buy fuel and they halted the process.
“We all thought it was going to be increased but they adjusted the litre to ₦65. It was something that I would never forget in my life. When things go up, they never come down in Nigeria and since then it has been like that.”
The representative for Ogbaru Federal Constituency in Anambra State at the House of Representatives, Afam Ogene, has appointed no fewer than 70 aides throughout Ogbaru.
According to Ogene, the appointments reflect his dedication to providing outstanding service to his constituency.
The appointed individuals encompass advisers, special assistants, executive assistants, and various other roles.
The letters of appointment, signed by Ogene’s Chief of Staff, Chinedum Uwolloh, seen by journalists on Tuesday, detailed the responsibilities assigned to the aides.
The letter states that the aides will “Assist the office of Hon. Ogene in achieving its core objective of delivering excellent service to the people of Ogbaru Federal Constituency in your specific area of appointment or perform any other duties assigned by the office from time to time.
“The appointments were made based on the appointees’ experience and commitment to the lawmaker’s success as Representative of Ogbaru Federal Constituency and the well-being of Ogbaru. The newly appointed aides are expected to bring their expertise and enthusiasm to their critical roles, particularly in enhancing service delivery to the constituents.
“They will receive monthly allowances aimed at motivating them and improving their economic conditions. This financial support will enable them to carry out their responsibilities more effectively without the burden of financial constraints.
“The allowances are intended to supplement their income, allowing them to better meet their basic needs and focus on providing exceptional service to the constituents of Ogbaru Federal Constituency.”
The letter also recalled that Ogene made a covenant with his constituents and Nigeria upon assuming office, outlining his commitment to responsible leadership.
The covenant, made public in February 2024 during a thanksgiving programme to celebrate his victory at the tribunal, reads: ‘I pledge to be a sensitive, responsible, and responsive Representative, working tirelessly for the peace and socio-economic development of Ogbaru Federal Constituency. To prioritise the interests of the people, ensuring equity, fairness, and justice for all Nigerians in my lawmaking and oversight responsibilities, guided by the principles of servant leadership.
“I commit to promoting self-accountability, decorum, propriety, and integrity in public office, setting a high standard for ethical governance. So help me God.‘
Notable among the appointees are Mr. David Chukwuekezie, Special Adviser (Political); Ben Nwasike, Special Adviser (Political); Emmanuel Akpati, Head of Media Relations; Maxwell Nwebo, Special Assistant (Events); Frank Oduah, Personal Assistant (Education Programmes); Tina Nwafor, Special Assistant (Women Mobilisation); Amechi Ede, Executive Assistant (Religious Affairs).
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has announced that key opposition leaders are exploring a merger to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 elections.
PDP’s Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Ibrahim Abdullahi, disclosed this Monday on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily programme.
Abdullahi confirmed that Atiku Abubakar of the PDP, Peter Obi of the Labour Party, and Rabiu Kwankwaso of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) are discussing a potential alliance.
On whether the party is working to bring Obi, Kwankwaso, and other leaders that had left back into the PDP, Abdullahi said, “Sure. Discussion is ongoing. You’ve seen Peter Obi discussing with Atiku. You’ve seen Peter Obi meeting with El-Rufai.”
He added that when the party gets the bigwigs back together, “One of them will concede for the others, and then we will have a direction. Our concern as a party and to these people that I have mentioned is to salvage Nigerians from these despair and despondency—the two maladies of hunger and poverty and frightening insecurity in the land. You could see cluelessness and ineptitude on the part of those managing the country. And to these people (Atiku, Obi, and Kwankwaso), salvaging Nigeria out of it is more important than their individual ambitions.
“If Atiku says he will contest as long as he is healthy, it is a possibility. If he says so, we will then see how we will manage the situation like we’ve always managed it, and the lessons we have learned will help us manage it better this time.
“But one thing I will tell you is that the same Atiku is saying if it is better for him to get Nigerians out of this hopelessness, he will do so. That is a statement. Atiku is saying he must not be in the race (to achieve this). Atiku is saying it is an entitlement to him as a democrat because the constitution provides that he could contest at any time. So, what he is trying to tell you is that there is no ceiling prohibiting him from contesting. That is his fundamental democratic right. But he is not saying he will force it on the throat of either the party or the country.
“I am telling you clearly Peter Obi is suitably qualified; he can aspire, and we will support him if he gets the ticket. Atiku is equally qualified, and if he gets the ticket, we will rally behind him to give him the desired support to save Nigerians.”
Reflecting on the last election, Abdullahi lamented that the party lost by over one million votes, adding that if Kwankwaso or Obi had remained with the party, “We could have closed that gap and avoided the current political and economic hardships.”
We’ll thrash them — APC
But reacting, the All Progressives Congress (APC) said it is not perturbed over the development, insisting the top opposition politicians are parallel lines that will never meet.
The APC’s Director of Publicity, Alhaji Bala Ibrahim, in a telephone interview with Daily Trust said, “They are not a threat to APC at all. In fact, it will be to the comfort of the APC to have these people again in the race, and the party is going to thrash them.
“When you look at the trio of Atiku, Kwankwaso, and Obi, these are permanent contestants, with Atiku being a serial loser of elections. Whatever happens, Atiku is not going to give in.
“So, we are aware of these shenanigans; we are aware of the circumstances. So we will wait for them. 2027 is a long way from now, but the APC is not going to lose sleep over this issue because these are parallel lines that will never meet.
“Politics is all about give and take; it’s all about compromise. But when you have people coming to politics with a one-way mindset of being contestants only, they are not politicians.
“So long as you are not willing to accept another party or person, you see yourself as the only person that is capable, and if you don’t get that position, no one should, then there is no way you will play any prominent role in a democracy because democracy is all about the views of the majority.”
Wike to face disciplinary committee over anti-party activities
Also commenting on the disciplinary issues within the party, especially in response to the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike’s recent remarks to unleash fire in any state with governors undermining his political structure in Rivers, Abdullahi said, “We’re not happy about it, but the maturity of the party is what has informed the silence from the governor. He was not expected to be on the street as well, joining issues with one of ours. We believe Wike is ours.”
He added that “That was a very disappointing remark from Wike, and we were not expecting him to say that. We are not with him on that, to be honest with you.”
Abdullahi also revealed that the FCT Minister would soon face the Tom Ikimi-led disciplinary committee over allegations of anti-party activities.
“Wike is one of the persons expected to face that committee. It’s a committee that is going to look into the issues we’ve been receiving petitions about regarding anti-party activities, sabotaging the party throughout the primaries, and leading up to where we are now. Those petitions have been aggregated against Wike throughout the country. Party members felt Wike shouldn’t have even gotten to this level still; as a member of the PDP, they have been writing to the party,” he said.
He said the committee has already written an invitation letter to Wike, adding that the committee has started sitting by reviewing the petitions.
Similarly, the PDP National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, said the party’s “Governors Forum’s contribution is crucial, and they will respond to any issues affecting the party. We recognise their stabilising influence and their efforts to ensure the party’s progress.”
[DailyTrust]
Fresh crisis is brewing in Ogbomoso, the second largest city in Oyo State, over the appointment of Habib Ayilara as the palace Imam by the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Afolabi Ghandi Olaoye.
DAILY POST gathered that Habib Ayilara was appointed by Olaoye on Friday.
He would be the first person to occupy such a position in the ancient city.
Investigation by our correspondent revealed that there was nothing like a palace Imam in the ancient city until Olaoye appointed Habib Ayilara on Friday.
The appointment of the palace Imam is not unconnected with the feud between the Chief Imam of Ogbomoso, Sheik Teliat Yunus Ayilara and the traditional ruler.
Our correspondent reports that the Chief Imam and the monarch have been at loggerheads since the traditional ruler was crowned.
Ayilara was turbaned as the Chief Imam in November 2022 during the reign of the immediate past Soun, Oba Jimoh Oyewumi.
DAILY POST reported that Olaoye had in June this year issued a query letter to the Chief Imam for embarking on holy pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia.
Ayilara in his reaction said that Olaoye lacked power to issue a query to him.
DAILY POST, however, gathered that Olaoye has created the office of palace Imam and has appointed Habib Ayilara as the pioneer palace Imam.
Investigation by DAILY POST revealed that the appointment of palace Imam did not go down well with the majority of the Muslims in the town.
Stakeholders express concern, express mixed reactions.
Some stakeholders among whom are the Ogbomoso Muslim community and the Muslim Rights Concern have expressed divergent views over the matter.
We are not aware of any appointment – Ogbomoso Muslim community
The Muslim community of Ogbomoso said that it was not aware of any appointment.
Chairman, Muslim Community of Ogbomoso, Alhaji Akintoye Abdusalam Olla said that the Muslim community was not informed about the appointment of palace Imam by the Soun.
Olla, who spoke with DAILY POST on Sunday, said that he and other Muslims saw the information on social media.
He described the appointment of a palace Imam as an attempt by the Soun to create division among the Muslims in the ancient city.
“We were not informed about it, we only saw it on social media. It is the Soun that is creating all these problems for us, not the Chief Imam.
“The person he appointed as palace Imam is from the same family with the Chief Imam of Ogbomoso, they contested together before the Chief Imam emerged.
“They are just finding ways to disturb the peace of the Muslim community in Ogbomoso.
“They are looking for ways to destabilize the Muslim community of Ogbomoso. They have an agenda. They just picked that one to cause a problem. We were not informed, we just saw it on social media,” he said.
It is an attempt to divide Muslims in Ogbomoso – MURIC
The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has described the appointment of Habib Ayilara as palace Imam as a subterfuge to weaken Islam.
MURIC in a statement made available to DAILY POST also described the appointment as a stratagem to enslave Muslims and a chicanery to exploit the Muslim population of Ogbomoso.
The group advised Muslims in the ancient city not to fall for the king’s divide and rule tactics.
MURIC made these assertions in a statement issued on Saturday by its Executive Director, Professor Ishaq Akintola.
Akintola in the statement made available to DAILY POST said that there was no vacancy in the Chief imamate of Ogbomoso because there can be only one Chief Imam in a city of the caliber of Ogbomoso and the post has been filled by Chief Imam, Talihat Yunus Olushina Ayilara.
“This is a democracy, nobody can gag us except a competent court of law. Soun has had his way, Nigerian Muslims must have their say.
“Soun’s most recent action is a subterfuge to weaken Islam, a stratagem to enslave Muslims and a chicanery to exploit the Muslim population of Ogbomoso.
“Besides, the Soun has committed titularic inexactitude and monarchical hara-kiri by giving the title ‘Chief Imam’ to a man appointed only as palace Imam.
“There is no vacancy in the Chief imamate of Ogbomoso because there can be only one Chief Imam in a city of the caliber of Ogbomoso and that post has been filled by Chief Imam Talihat Yunus Olushina Ayilara.
“Therefore, the correct title of the new Imam is ‘Palace Imam’ Habib Ayilara.
“He is the king’s special Imam, not the Chief Imam. Afterall, many individual Muslims are known to have separate mosque buildings in their compounds and they appoint Islamic scholars as their personal Imams.
“We warn the new Palace Imam to be wary of the king’s tactics. He must not allow the palace pastor to mislead him. It is sheer divide et impera.
“However, out of meanness and pettiness, the king has made his private Imam the official Imam to be recognized by the Oyo State Government.
“While we know that Governor Seyi Makinde is more than a willing accomplice in this scheme to diminish the status of Islam in Ogbomoso, we patiently await the court’s judgement.
“Of course it is strange for a pastor king to have an Imam but since there is a mosque inside the palace, it is in order to have a Ratibi Imam (Imam of a branch mosque, not that of a Central Mosque). This is where the Soun has exhibited his zero knowledge of Islamic matters.
“Unfortunately, those who know better and who should have counselled him, elected to dance to the gallery.
“We urge the Muslims of Ogbomoso not to fall for the king’s divide and rule tactics. Soun’s subterfuge is designed to weaken Islam and to enslave and exploit the Muslim population.
“We know where Pastor Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, the Soun of Ogbomoso, is going. The body language is very clear. His aim is to make his palace Imam the Chief Imam of Ogbomoso.
“He has appointed a palace Imam but where is his palace bishop? Nigerians must ponder over this scandalous manipulation. His stratagem is to put his feet on the Chief Imam’s neck. He is mocking Islam, playing Muslims against one another. It is divide et impera.
“The destiny of the Muslims of Ogbomoso in particular and that of Yoruba Muslims is in their hands. They can only be free when they resist attempts being made to divide and debilitate them. But their method of resistance must be civilized, peaceful, lawful and constitutional.
“For us in MURIC, we will rather be free and totally committed Muslims in our graves than live as palace puppets, court jesters, sycophants, minions and slaves.
“We will not sell our full Islamic identity and religious freedom for a pot of porridge and crumbs from the palace table”.
Appointment of palace Imam by a Christian King is hypocrisy – Islamic cleric, Alagunfon
An Islamic scholar, Dr. Sulaimon Adewale Alagunfon described the action of the Soun as an act of hypocrisy.
He said that it amounted to hypocrisy for a King who is not a Muslim to appoint a palace Imam whom he said will be leading him in prayers.
Alagunfon, who spoke with DAILY POST noted that the appointment of palace Imam to tackle the Chief Imam is an indication that the king does not have authority in the city.
“The statement made by the king has also shown that the Chief Imam of Ogbomoso is still the overall head of the Muslims in the town.
“It shows that the King cannot exercise authority in the town.
“The king said that the palace Imam will be leading him in prayer, that is hypocrisy to me because you are not a Muslim, so which prayer do you want the Imam to lead you? That is hypocrisy.
“That means, it sounds political; you are not a Muslim, you want to divide the Muslims, you want some Muslims to come to the palace, some will be working with you and work against the Chief Imam,” he told DAILY POST.
[DailyPost]
Barring last-minute changes, the Peoples Democratic Party Governors Forum and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, may be heading for a showdown as the party’s National Working Committee meets on Wednesday.
Governance in Rivers State has been partially affected for months due to the ongoing political conflict between Wike and Governor Siminalayi Fubara, both of whom are PDP members.
The feud has caused a split within the state House of Assembly, with a faction led by Martin Amaewhule supporting Wike, while the other faction, led by Victor Oko-Jumbo, is loyal to Fubara.
Despite efforts by President Bola Tinubu and other prominent figures in Rivers State and across the country to mediate, the conflict persists, with the factions engaging in multiple legal disputes in Port Harcourt and Abuja courts.
The PUNCH reported that despite a court injunction stopping the PDP from holding congresses in Rivers State, the Amb Umar Damagum-led NWC conducted the congress which handed control of the Rivers State party structure to Wike.
In an open letter addressed to the party leadership, former Federal Commissioner for Information and South-South leader, Chief Edwin Clark, accused Wike of using his close relationship with Tinubu to mount undue pressure on Fubara and the PDP.
The PDP governors also expressed support for Fubara, urging the party’s NWC to grant him his “rightful” position as the leader of the party in the state.
In response, Wike, at the PDP secretariat in Port Harcourt, said he would take decisive action in PDP-controlled states.
“Let me assure all of you, not while we live will anybody take away the structure of the PDP from us. But let me tell people, I hear some governors who say they will take over the structure and give it back to somebody.
“I pity those governors because I will put fire in their states. When God has given you peace, you say you don’t want peace – anything you see you take.”
When contacted, the Director General of the PDP Governors Forum, Emmanuel Agbo, stated that a meeting to address Wike’s threat was imminent.
“He addressed the governors specifically. The governors will meet and they will take a position. The Secretariat is to convey their (Governors) positions. Until that is done, I don’t have any take on it,” he said.
When questioned about when the governors would convene, Agbo responded: “Once I get a confirmation, I will let the press know.”
Similarly, the NWC meeting is set to take place on Wednesday (tomorrow) at Wadata Plaza, the PDP national headquarters in Abuja.
A senior NWC member who wished to remain anonymous, as he is not authorised to speak on the matter, indicated that the party leaders were expected to review and discuss the PDP recently-held ward and state congresses, and governors’ position on Rivers in the upcoming meeting.
“We anticipate that the PDP Governors will contact the NWC to convey their stance on Rivers State and their preferred approach.
“If they do, this will be addressed at the NWC meeting. The meeting will also discuss the ongoing litigation involving the defected members of the Rivers State House of Assembly,” the source volunteered.
Recall that the last PDP NWC meeting revealed a clear division among the members.
Damagum and several others approved the conduct of the Rivers congress in favour of Wike despite the court injunction, while the National Legal Adviser, Kamaldeen Ajibade (SAN), National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, and the National Financial Secretary, Daniel Woyegikuro, insisted that the correct procedure should be followed in the interest of Fubara.
On July 8, 2024, the Rivers State High Court issued an ex parte order barring key state officials from engaging with the defected lawmakers.
Unexpectedly, Wike’s lawyers appealed the order without the party’s consent, including that of the National Legal Adviser.
Although Ajibade attempted to withdraw the appeal on July 24, a letter dated August 15 from Damagum and PDP National Secretary, Samuel Anyanwu, sent to the Court of Appeal in Port Harcourt clarified that the PDP was not involved in the withdrawal.
“All these issues will be discussed,” the source said.
A member of the National Executive Committee and former PDP National Publicity Secretary, Kola Ologbondiyan, stated that the letter from Damagum and Anyanwu contradicting the National Legal Adviser provides sufficient grounds for the other NWC members to issue a vote of no confidence in the acting national chairman.
In an exclusive interview with The PUNCH on Monday, Ologbondiyan stated that it was up to the NWC to save the PDP, adding that Nigerians were looking to the party to rescue them from the maladministration of the All Progressives Congress-led Federal Government.
He stated, “Yes, a vote of no confidence should be passed in Damagum. The NWC has more than enough capacity; what warranted that decision was the fact that Damagum, acting as national chairman, and national secretary, Samuel Anyanwu, wrote to the court and contradicted the National Legal Adviser.
“Look, it is up to the National Working Committee to make the decision, and the ball is in their court to handle it as they deem fit. But what we are saying is that you cannot use the authority of your office to go against the National Legal Adviser in court.
“It was an aberration of norms. The constitution is clear on the role of the National Legal Adviser. What the national chairman and the national secretary did was a violation of the constitution. I do not foresee a situation in which nothing will be done, and I do not want to contemplate it.”
Another member of the National Executive Committee and the party’s National Deputy Legal Adviser, Okechukwu Osuoha, urged the NWC to treat Fubara like other governors regarding party structure.
In an exclusive interview with The PUNCH on Monday, Osuoha stated, “What is applicable is that the governor of the state is the leader of the party in the state.
“The structure of the party is anchored on the state governor. Therefore, the NWC should apply what happened in other states to Rivers.
“In other states where the PDP has a governor, the structure of the party revolves around the governor. So whatever has been done in other states should be reciprocated in Rivers. After all, all states in Nigeria are equal, and they must consider the important role Rivers State plays in Nigeria. We cannot afford to lose control of the state.”
Also commenting, the PDP Deputy National Youth Leader, Timothy Osadolor, said there should be no pretence or delay among Rivers State party stakeholders and the NWC in implementing the PDP governors’ position.
Osadolor, in an exclusive interview with The PUNCH, stated, “And what is more important is that an amicable resolution to the Rivers imbroglio is achieved for the party’s interest.
“What I know is that there is no dispute as to who the leader of the party in Rivers is and that is Governor Sim Fubara.”
On Wike’s response to the PDP governors, Osadolor said, “I think the speech by ex-Governor Wike was very unnecessary and unsavoury.
“Wike’s statement is unfortunate. A man who should be busy apologising to the party or trying to seek reconciliation should not be grandstanding, throwing tantrums, and issuing threats to governors who are keeping the party’s flag flying.
“So I think it’s high time the Governors’ Forum and the NWC sit down and take a position on leaders like Wike, no matter how highly placed or how much interest the person has. They need to address such leaders squarely and draw the line firmly and clearly.”
Osadolor, who called on the party’s organs to respond appropriately to Wike, stated that his ongoing attacks on the party would no longer be tolerated.
“This is important so that in the future, we won’t have these types of people playing larger than life. The party is supreme and must act as a supreme entity. I believe that an adequate response should be given to the threat he was making.
“As an officer of the party, I would think that he has made one statement too many. It’s time to tell him that, look, you’re either in or you’re out.
“What that means is that if he wants to be in the party, he must play by and live by the rules. If he wants to be outside the party, let him be outside the party umbrella and throw his tantrums. But his move to remain in the party while undermining it will not be tolerated,” he said.
On Monday, the Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Ibrahim Abdullahi, suggested that Wike had been called to appear before the PDP disciplinary committee, led by Tom Ikimi, due to his involvement in anti-party activities during the 2023 elections.
Abdullahi, while appearing on Channels Television’s programme, Sunrise Daily, said “Three weeks ago, we put up two committees in place, that of reconciliation and disciplinary, and Nyesom Wike is one of the persons to face the disciplinary committee, which is headed by elder statesman, Chief Tom Ikimi.
“The disciplinary committee will look into issues of anti-party activities. We’ve been receiving petitions regarding anti-party activities or sabotaging the party throughout the primary, leading to where we are now.
“These petitions against Wike and other party members have been aggregated and sent to the committee.
“Some party members even felt that Wike shouldn’t have gotten to this level still as a member of the PDP and they have been writing to the leadership.”
When contacted, Ologunagba, who played down any showdown in the forthcoming NWC meeting over Rivers matter, confirmed that other NEC members had been expressing their views in support of the Governors’ Forum.
On the possible showdown, Ologunagba stated, “I don’t work on speculations. It would be premature to assume that will happen.
“People have been expressing their views, which align with what the PDP Governors said in Taraba. That will be formally presented before the NWC meeting, and the NWC will discuss and take appropriate actions in line with those advisories and in accordance with the party’s constitution, which recognises the governor as the leader of the party.
“So we will wait for the matter to come before the NWC,” he added.
Ologunagba, while addressing a world press conference in Abuja, on Monday, confronted Wike, asserting that no one was above the party.
He said the Governors’ forum would resolve the Rivers crisis according to the party’s guidelines.
“We believe, and I will say this, that the Governors’ Forum remains one of the most potent organs of this party. We recognise and salute their courage and their contributions to the development of the party. We acknowledge their stabilising role and their reconciliatory efforts for the party.
“There is a connection between Nigerians and the PDP because it is called the Peoples Democratic Party. It is not a party of joiners, people who just came together for business or special purposes. It was founded on values, principles, and vision, which are well stated.
“The Governors’ Forum is a body with its regulations, and they address issues like this as they arise, particularly when they concern them. I respect the Governors’ Forum and believe they will address the matter.
“What we know is that nobody is above this party, and we must take that to heart. It’s like justice: the wheel of justice grinds slowly but ultimately grinds well.
“We urge our governors to do what is necessary to ensure stability in their states. The only way they can achieve stability is through performance. If you compare PDP governors with governors from other parties, you will find that PDP governors are oases of development,” he said.
[Punch]
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has clarified that the board is not involved in the admission process for higher national diploma (HND) students.
Earlier, there were claims by some HND students accusing the board of being responsible for their inability to go for their National Youth Service scheme (NYSC).
The students were said to have claimed they were not mobilised for service because they did a part-time programme for their national diploma (ND).
Fabian Benjamin, the JAMB spokesperson, said the board has no involvement, authority, or control over the admissions process for HND candidates.
He said JAMB is also not responsible for other higher institutions’ programmes besides their regular admissions.
The board added that candidates’ HND admissions are “unknown and irrelevant” to the mandate of JAMB.
“The law that established JAMB states, ‘For the avoidance of doubt, the board shall be responsible for determining matriculation requirements and conducting examinations leading to undergraduate admissions, as well as for admissions to National Diploma and Nigerian Certificate in Education courses. However, the Board shall not be responsible for examinations or any other selective processes for postgraduate courses or any other courses offered by tertiary institutions,” Benjamin said.
JAMB earlier gave a 30-day ultimatum to institutions in August to declare all admissions conducted outside its processing system.
[TheCable]
The Speaker of the Bauchi State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Suleiman Abubakar, has expressed deep concern over statements credited to the Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike, threatening to incite political crisis in states where their governors were allegedly interfering in Rivers State political crisis.
Rt. Hon. Abubakar, who’s the immediate-past chairman of the Conference of Nigerian Speakers Forum, in a statement made available to journalists, described Wike’s remarks as ‘reckless’ and ‘unbecoming’ of a leader, emphasising that such rhetoric endanger not only the unity of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) but also the stability of the entire nation.
He also called on the PDP leadership and the national security agencies to take immediate action to address ‘Wike’s excesses’ .
“The PDP was founded on the principles of democracy, mutual respect, and the rule of law. It is not the personal fiefdom of any individual, regardless of their past accomplishments or current position.
“Mr. Wike’s attempt to use his influence as a tool of intimidation against other states within the federation is a gross misuse of power and a direct violation of the values upon which our party stands.
“As the Speaker of the Bauchi State House of Assembly, I cannot remain silent in the face of such threats. Mr. Wike’s audacious warning that Bauchi State could face political turmoil simply because we stand for what is right is unacceptable.
“More over, Mr Wike’s continues public outburst do a disservice to the PDP and betray the trust that the people of Rivers state and the broadens Nigerian populace have placed on him . It is the responsibility of the National Security Adviser and the media to ensure that individuals who make such inflammatory statements are held accountable. We cannot allow a situation where one man’s ego and thirst for power jeopardize the peace and unity of our nation,” he stated.
He added that Bauchi State like any other state will not be intimidated with Wike’s threats of political turmoil while reaffirming the state’s commitment to upholding justice, peace and rule of law even as he insisted that any attempt to disrupt the peace of Bauchi State will be met with the full force of the law.
[Leadership]
Nigerians are willing to manipulate their identity to gain access, employment, hospital, power, and access to those who are incharge of resources and authority in the country.
Executive Director of the Kukah Centre (TKC), Fr. Atta Barkindo, said this in Abuja at the public presentation of the 26-page project impact report on ‘Strengthening Social Cohesion in Lagos’, and policy brief on the project with support from MacArthur Foundation.
“Number one, it means people are willing to manipulate any identity, as long as it gives them employment, access to hospital, access to power, access to those who are in charge of the resources and the authority in this country.
“And it also shows that we really have a lot of work to do to convince people about why we need to build social cohesion, national identity, common citizenship, and to see Nigeria as a country that belongs to all of us and where we prioritize meritocracy competence, over and above where you come from, or where you belong to or what your political affiliation is.
“And I think that is why the Kukah center went to Lagos. We all knew what happened in Lagos during the 2023 general elections, and maybe that of Lagos has been amplified because Lagos with lots of infrastructure, the media is there, so we can easily hear what happened in Lagos, and probably, in other places, things may have happened that has been worse than what has happened in Lagos,” Barkindo said.
He said in Europe, it is about where someone live.
He said, “That is why you belong. It is about where you are born that matters, not your own state of origin. So somebody was born in Kano, lives in Kano for 40 years, and when it is time to vote, they ask you to go back to your state of origin, not the state that you were born.”
He said that Lagos was a pilot phase, adding that their intention is to go to almost every state across the country and to try and bring people together to have the conversations.
The ‘Strengthening Social Cohesion in Lagos Project’ is a 12-month project conceived in response to the social unrest and electoral violence that erupted during the 2023 general elections.
The report said that over the years, ethnic and regional divides, including issues of indigenes and settlers have combined to reinforce a sense of mutual distrust and suspicion, to a point that identity politics have become a meal ticket for politicians to garner votes.
“During the 2023 general elections, the impact of these divisions played out and led to massive electoral violence, particularly in Lagos state. This necessitated the intervention, particularly as, the aftermath of the elections seemed to have reinforced religious and ethnic disharmony, asNigerians became angrier, more fearful, and less trusting of one another,” the report said.
On what can drive sustainability to strengthen social cohesion, the report recommended continuous community engagement, youth-centred initiatives, fair and just systems, inclusive governance, quality education; and cultural awareness and sensitization among others.
[DailyTrust]
The Nigeria Police have placed a N20 million bounty on a British national, Andrew Wynne, and a Nigerian, Lucky Ehims, who were declared wanted on Monday for allegedly attempting to overthrow President Bola Tinubu.
In a statement on Monday afternoon, the police said a reward sum of N10,000,000 awaits any person(s) with information leading to the arrest of each of them.
DAILY POST recalls how the Police had launched a comprehensive investigation into the activities of foreign national and subversive elements plotting to undermine the democratically elected government in Nigeria through unconstitutional regime change and orchestrating violence across the country.
According to the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Muyuwa Adejobi, following extensive intelligence gathering and collaboration with other security agencies, nine suspects have been arrested, who received substantial financial backing from foreign sources to destabilize the country.
He said that preliminary findings revealed they orchestrated and funded violent protests by disseminating false information and engaging in other unlawful activities to create anarchy and justify their illegal plot to overthrow the democratically elected government.
“Investigations have identified a foreign mercenary, Andrew Wynne (also known as Andrew Povich or Drew Povey), a British national, who built a network of sleeper cells to topple the government and plunge the nation into chaos.
“He rented a space at Labour House, Abuja, for an ‘Iva Valley Bookshop’ and established ‘STARS of Nations Schools’ as a cover for his subversive activities,” he said.
The Police, therefore, called on the public to assist in any useful information that would help their investigations, saying if Andrew Wynne and Lucky Ehims are seen, they should be arrested and handed over to the nearest Police Station.
[DailyPost]
![[PRESS RELEASE] Tinubu appoints new board for Bank Of Industry](/media/k2/items/cache/1d435e9dfd6c80716729def71cb790fd_S.jpg)
President Bola Tinubu has approved the appointment of the following qualified Nigerians to the board of the Bank of Industry Limited:
(1) Mansur Muhtar — Chairman
(2) Olasupo Olusi — Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer
(3) Ifeoma Uz’Okpala — Executive Director, Large Enterprises
(4) Shekarau Omar — Executive Director, Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises
(5) Usen Effiong — Executive Director, Corporate Services
(6) Mabel Ndagi — Executive Director, Public Sector & Intervention Programmes
(7) Rotimi Akinde — Executive Director, Corporate Finance & Risk Management
(8) Tajudeen Datti Ahmed — Non-Executive Director, representing the Ministry of Finance Incorporated
(9) Adedamola Olufemi Young — Non-Executive Director, representing Central Bank of Nigeria
(10) Isaac Adefemi Agoye — Non-Executive, representing Manufacturers Association of Nigeria
(11) Muhammad Bala — Non-Executive, representing Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade & Investment
(12) Oreoluwa Adeyemi — Independent Non-Executive Director
(13) Sulaiman Musa Kadira — Independent Non-Executive Director
Mr Muhtar’s career spans decades in finance, international development, public service, and academia.
He served as Minister of Finance, Budget and Economic Development from 2008 to 2010 and was Vice President, Operations of the Islamic Development Bank, before his recent appointment.
The President expects the new board of the Bank of Industry to work harmoniously, diligently, and with utmost fidelity to the nation in driving the mandate of this critical institution as a development vehicle for providing support for projects that enhance job creation, poverty alleviation, and the socio-economic conditions of Nigerian families.
Ajuri Ngelale
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
More...
Scores of demonstrators took to the streets of Abuja on Monday, demanding the immediate dismissal of the Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kyari, over the ongoing fuel scarcity that has plagued the nation.
The protest comes at a time when the NNPCL has admitted that its considerable debt to fuel suppliers is jeopardizing the sustainability of fuel supplies across the country.
The corporation has highlighted that the financial burden is severely impacting its operations and could further destabilize the already fragile fuel supply chain.
Human rights lawyer, Femi Falana, who was recently a guest on Channels Television’s Politics Today, also voiced concerns regarding the rising cost of living, the arbitrary hike in petrol prices, and the resulting scarcity.
Falana emphasized the need to uncover what he described as the “monumental fraud” in Nigeria’s fuel importation process.
During the protest, demonstrators chanted solidarity songs and displayed banners with messages such as “We are tired of fuel scarcity and stories on why refineries are not working,” “No direction under Kyari,” and “We want accountability in the affairs of NNPCL.”
The protesters decried what they viewed as a dismal performance under Kyari’s leadership, calling for greater transparency and accountability.
The Convener of the Coalition of Concerned Civil Society Organizations, Aminu Abbas, addressed the media at Unity Fountain after the rally, questioning why a country as rich in oil resources as Nigeria continues to face such severe fuel scarcity.
Abbas called for immediate action to address the ongoing crisis and ensure that the country’s refineries are functioning efficiently.
He said, “To President Ahmed Bola Tinubu and all those in positions of power, we say the time to act is now. Show us that you stand with the people, not those who profit from our misery. Mr Kyari must be shown the way out, and the NNPCL must be reformed to serve the interests of all Nigerians. We will not be silenced.
“The fuel scarcity we endure today is not just a mere inconvenience; it is a calculated perpetuation of suffering. Under Mr Kyari’s leadership, the situation has gone from bad to worse, with no end in sight. What has he done to alleviate this crisis? It is clear he seems intent on maintaining a status quo that benefits only a select few while the masses suffer.
“Why do we, the people, have to endure endless queues, inflated prices, and the daily uncertainty of whether we can fuel our vehicles or power our homes? The answer lies in the gross incompetence and mismanagement that have become the hallmarks of Mr. Kyari’s leadership.”
The National Assembly Joint Committee on Electoral Matters has put forward a proposal to reduce the salaries of legislators and executive members by 30% and 40%, respectively.
This proposal was discussed on Monday during an interactive session led by Senator Sharafadeen Alli, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Electoral Matters.
The session included members of the judiciary and representatives from political parties, focusing on the review and amendment of the Electoral Act 2022.
The proposed salary cuts aim to reduce government expenditure and are part of a broader discussion on cost-saving measures.
Naija News reports that the committee also reviewed other proposals, including conducting all elections; presidential, National Assembly, governorship, and State Houses of Assembly, on a single day to enhance efficiency and reduce costs.
Additionally, political parties suggested linking voter registration to the National Identity Number (NIN) for improved security and cost efficiency.
They also proposed that the appointment of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) chairman should no longer be the responsibility of the executive branch but rather be an open process advertised to interested candidates.
Senator Alli assured that the joint committee would continue to engage with INEC and the public to ensure that future elections are conducted smoothly and with minimal disruptions.
Several protesters who took part in the August 1-10 #EndBadGovernance demonstrations have been remanded in Kuje Correctional Centre after being charged with treason by the Federal Government.
Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja ordered the protesters’ remand pending the hearing and ruling on their bail application, which is scheduled for September 11, 2024.
The decision came after the accused pleaded not guilty to the six-count charge, which includes allegations of terrorism.
The charges, which have sparked significant concern among human rights advocates, have brought attention to the government’s handling of the protests, which were primarily focused on issues such as hunger and misgovernance.
More details are expected to emerge as the case progresses, with the next court session set to determine the immediate future of the accused protesters.
Police place N20m bounty on Andrew Wynne, Lucky Ehims wanted over attempt to ‘overthrow’ Tinubu
AFOLABI
British national, Andrew Wynne and a Nigerian, Lucky Ehims were declared wanted by the Nigerian security agents, Police on Monday placed N20m (Twenty Million Naira) bounty on them.
Police in a statement on Monday afternoon said a reward sum of N10,000,000 awaits any person(s) with information leading to the arrest of British national, Andrew Wynne and a Nigerian, Lucky Ehims .
Vanguard had reported how Police had launched a comprehensive investigation into the activities of a foreign national and subversive elements plotting to undermine the democratically elected government in Nigeria through unconstitutional regime change and orchestrating violence across the country.
Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Muyuwa Adejobi said “Following extensive intelligence gathering and collaboration with other security agencies, nine suspects have been apprehended, who received substantial financial backing from foreign sources to destabilize the country.
“Preliminary findings suggest they orchestrated and funded violent protests, disseminated false information, and engaged in other unlawful activities to create anarchy and justify their illegal plot to overthrow the democratically elected government.
“Investigations have identified a foreign mercenary, Andrew Wynne (also known as Andrew Povich or Drew Povey), a British national, who built a network of sleeper cells to topple the government and plunge the nation into chaos.
“He rented a space at Labour House, Abuja, for an ‘Iva Valley Bookshop’ and established ‘STARS of Nations Schools’ as a cover for his subversive activities.
“Documentary evidence and confessions revealed that Andrew Wynne issued directives, monitored progress, and provided finance and operational guidance to achieve unconstitutional regime change in Nigeria.
“He mobilized and deployed several billions of naira to his Nigerian collaborators, urging them to mobilize the public to violently storm police facilities and military barracks, anticipating a bloodbath that would instigate international condemnation of the Nigerian government.
“These acts are in clear violation of the Terrorism (Prevention) Act 2011 and other relevant laws.
“Since the commencement of investigations, Andrew Wynne has fled the country. He and one of his local coordinators, one Lucky Ehis Obiyan have accordingly been declared wanted and global hunting for them has commenced in connection with this investigation.
“The ten other suspects already apprehended have been arraigned before a competent court of law on Monday, September 2, 2024, for Criminal Conspiracy, Terrorism Financing, Treasonable Felony, Subversion, and Cybercrime.
“They include; Angel Love Innocent (Female), Opaluwa Eleojo Simeon, Michael Tobitoba Adaramoye aka Leni, Suleiman Yakubu, Buhari Lawal, Mosiu Sadiq, Abayomi Adeyemi, Abdulsalam Zubairu (M), Nuradeen Hamis, and Bashir Bello.
“These acts are in clear violation of the Terrorism (Prevention) Act 2011 and other relevant laws
The force also appealed to the public to assist in any useful information that will help their investigations, saying if Andrew Wynne and Lucky Ehims are seen, they should be arrested and “hand over to the nearest Police Station, or to the office of the Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Department of Force Intelligence, Force Headquarters, Abuja, or call 08035179870, 09133333785, 09133333786. A reward sum of N10,000,000 awaits any person(s) with information leading to the arrest of each of them”.