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As the crisis in the Labour Party continues to fester, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has written to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the National Legal Adviser of the Labour Party to desist from validating the “illegal Labour Party National Convention” scheduled for March 27, 2024.
In separate letters dated March 22, 2024, addressed to the INEC Chairman, Prof Mahmood Yakubu, the LP National Legal Adviser, NLC warned that if the party did not desist and stop the Convention, it would sue the LP for contempt in view of the two valid judgements of the Federal High Court.
Recall on Wednesday, that members of the Nigeria Labour Congress picketed the offices of Labour Party nationwide, over alleged financial mismanagement by the Julius Abure-led national leadership of the party.
Also on March 20, that the Political Commission of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) directed state chapters of NLC to mobilise members to picket all Labour Party offices nationwide over the lingering political crisis in the party.
NLC had accused the embattled National Chairman of LP, Julius Abure of unilateral decision to hold a national convention of the party, amid financial rascality and contempt for the leadership of the NLC.
Meanwhile, NLC in the letter cited that the proposed National Convention of the Labour Party is in violation of the valid orders of court in suit “Nos; (1) FHC/ABJ/CS/491/2021;
(2) FHC/ABJ/CS/866/2014
Between; (1) Labour Party & 9 Ors Vs Barrister Julius Abure & 2 Ors;
(2) Labour Party & 3 Ors. Vs Com. Salisu Muhammed & 8 Ors.”
In the letter signed by Marshal Abubakar, LP of the Falana and Falana Chambers, solicitors to the NLC, the union specifically warned the National Legal Officer of LP that if the convention holds in violation of the orders of the court, it would not only institute contempt proceedings against him being party to the two judgements of the court, but will report him to the disciplinary committee of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA).
The organised labour also appealed to INEC chairman to restrain officials of the Commission from undermining the due administration of justice and respect for rule of law by attending the illegal convention.
Titled: “Request To Desist From Validating The Illegal Labour Party National Convention Scheduled For March 27, 2024,” the letter addressed to Legal Adviser to LP partly read: “We are solicitors to the Nigeria Labour Congress on whose behalf we write this letter.
“It has come to our notice that Mr. Julius Abure, the Chairman of the Labour Party and a handful of his supporters are planning to hold a National Convention of the Labour Party on 27th March, 2024 at Abia, Abia State with the active connivance of some officials of the Commission under your able leadership.
“As you are no doubt aware, a National Convention conducted by the Abure faction will be violative of the judgement of the Federal High Court in Suit No FHC/ABJ/CS/866/2014 between Labour Party & 3 Ors. Vs Com. Salisu Muhammed, where the court had declared the Labour Party as “an institutional political party founded, promoted and registered by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) on behalf of the Nigerian Workers.” and thus ordered the factions to “convene an expansive and inclusive National Convention of the party.”
“Similarly, the plaintiffs in Suit no; FHC/ABJ/CS/ 491/2021 between Labour Party & 9 Ors. Vs Barrister Julius Abure & 2 Ors. had approached the Federal High Court seeking inter alia; an order of injunction in favour of the plainiffs restraining the 1st (Barrister Julius Abure), 2nd (Umar Farouk) 3rd (Barr. Akingbade Samuel Oyelakin) defendants or any and/or all of the national officers appointed in any manner violative of the orders of the federal high court in suit no FHC/ABJ/CS/866/2014 between Labour Party & 3 Ors. Vs Com. Salisu Muhammed & Ors.
“In a well-considered ruling, the Federal High Court on Friday July, 23, 2021 ruled, “An order is hereby made for the parties to maintain status quo ante bellum in other not to disturb the res of the matter pending further order of this Court.” Attached is a CTC of the Order.
“Worthy of note is the fact that you were the counsel on record and indeed represented the 1st to 3rd Respondents in the foregoing suit.
“In view of the foregoing, we are compelled to urge you to refrain yourself and properly advise your clients to desist from proceeding with the illegal national convention of the labour party scheduled for March 27, 2024.
“Upon failing, we shall institute contempt proceedings against you and the other defendants and report you to the disciplinary committee of the NBA.
“Whilst anticipating your cooperation and understanding, please, accept as usual, our professional regards.”
Ex-spokesperson for the Atiku/Okowa Presidential Campaign Organisation, Daniel Bwala, has alleged an ongoing plot by the presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 Presidential Election, Peter Obi, to dump LP and join immediate past Kaduna Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, in the Social Democratic Party (SDP).
In a post on his X handle on Friday, Bwala alleged that Obi was perfecting plans to take leave of the LP as a result of the seemingly intractable conflict between the party leadership and the leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC).
Recall that Obi, a former Governor of Anambra State, dumped the Peoples Democratic Party to join the LP in May 2023 ahead of the 2023 general elections.
Bwala, in a post on his X handle. wrote, “Peter Obi @PeterObi allegedly planning to unite with El-rufai @elrufai in Social Democratic Party as Nigerian Labour Congress set to take ownership and custody of their political party, the @NgLabour.
BREAKING-PETER OBI @PETEROBI ALLEGEDLY PLANNING TO UNITE WITH EL-RUFAI @ELRUFAI IN SOCIAL DEMOCRATIC PARTY AS NIGERIAN LABOUR CONGRESS SET TO TAKE OWNERSHIP AND CUSTODY OF THEIR POLITICAL PARTY, THE @NGLABOUR. RECALL THAT THERE WAS A JUDGMENT OF COURT THAT STATES THAT NIGERIA…
— D. H BWALA (@BWALADANIEL) MARCH 22, 2024
“Recall that there was a judgment of court that states that Nigeria Labour Congress owns Labour Party. NLC is now prepared to take custody of that party.
“Twist and turns in the coming days. But all that will not give sleepless night to @officialABAT who himself has his magic wands to wield.”
When contacted, Chief Spokesman for the Obi/ Datti Presidential Campaign, Dr. Yunusa Tanko dismissed Bwala’s assertion as “a figment of his immagination.”
He said, “Ordinarily, we wouldn’t respond to this fiction. he (Bwala) is a politician who wants to remain relevant in the scheme of things. We’ve responded to the false narrative of our leader leaving the Labour Party in the past, this position has not changed.”
El-Rufai was sighted at the national secretariat of the Social Democratic Party, in Abuja, on Wednesday.
The Ex-Kaduna State Governor and APC chieftain was sighted in a viral video on social media during his consultation visit to the national chairman of the SDP, Alhaji Shehu Gabam.
Not much was heard from El-Rufai after the Senate refused to confirm his ministerial nomination in 2023.
After the screening of the 49 ministerial nominees sent by President Bola Tinubu, the Senate also declined to confirm the appointment of former Deputy Governor of Taraba State and another ministerial nominee from the state, Senator Abubakar Danladi.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio, explained the Senate did not clear the nominees because of adverse security reports against them.
Barely ten days after 17 officers and men of the Nigerian Army were killed by gunmen in an ambush in Okuama, Ughelli Local Government Area of Delta State, the police announced, yesterday, that they lost six of their officers in another ambush carried out by suspected kidnappers in Delta.
Six other officers are missing.
The slain officers were said to be on a mission to investigate the disappearance and rescue of three of their colleagues in Ohoro Forest when they came under attack.
Meanwhile, the police said five suspects have been arrested in connection with the attack.
The murder of two other police officers in Imo State brings to eight the number of officers killed at the weekend.
A statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Muyiwa Adejobi, said the bodies of the slain officers had been recovered after fierce search by a combined team of policemen and other security outfits while the focus is on the search for the missing ones.
The families of the deceased men, according to Adejobi, had been notified.
He gave the names of the deceased officers as Inspector Abe Olubunmi (IRT) enlisted on 1st August, 2003; Inspector Friday Irorere (51 PMF) enlisted on 1st January, 2003; Sergeant Kuden Elisha (51 PMF) enlisted on 17th October, 2011; Sergeant Akpan Aniette (51 PMF) enlisted on 17th October, 2011; Sergeant Ayere Paul (IRT) enlisted on 17th October, 2011; and Sergeant Ejemito Friday (51 PMF) enlisted on 17th October, 2011.
“The officers currently missing in action include Inspector Onoja Daniel enlisted 1st February, 2003; Inspector Onogho Felix enlisted on 1st January 2004; Inspector Emmanuel Okoroafor enlisted 1st April, 2004; Inspector Joel Hamidu enlisted 1st June 2006, Sergeant Moses Eduvie enlisted 17th October, 2011, all of 51 PMF; and Sergeant Cyril Okorie (SWAT) enlisted 17th October 2011”, the statement said.
Deployment
The FPRO said that following the sad development, the Inspector General of Police “mandated the deployment of all necessary resources and personnel to apprehend those responsible for this senseless killing of our officers”.
“This has led to the arrest of five suspects in connection with the preceding incident and the killing, who are currently volunteering information necessary for the rounding up of all the perpetrators”.
The statement reads, “The Nigerian Police force is profoundly saddened by the devastating loss of six (6) courageous officers in Delta State, who exhibited exceptional valour in the face of adversity.
“These brave officers tragically fell victim to a cowardly ambush by armed assailants while undertaking a mission to investigate the disappearance and rescue of three of their colleagues in the Ohoro Forest, Delta State, while six (6) others are currently missing-in-action.
“Our hearts extend to the families, friends, and colleagues of the fallen officers during this period of profound sorrow.
“We stand in solidarity with them, offering our deepest condolences and earnestly praying for the peaceful repose of the departed souls.
“Furthermore, the Nigeria Police Force is committed to honouring the memory of our fallen heroes by recognizing their bravery, dedication, and sacrifice.
“By this commitment, the Force will posthumously honour the slain officers for their noble service and ultimate sacrifice at the Nigeria Police Awards and Commendations Ceremony scheduled for April 5th, 2024 in Abuja.
“In response to this grievous loss, the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun has taken decisive actions as expected.
“Additionally, the Inspector General of Police has mandated the expedited processing and payment of all entitlements due to the families of the fallen officers, aiming to alleviate any financial burdens they may encounter in this challenging time. “Similarly, immediate measures have been initiated to ensure that justice is served swiftly and the perpetrators of this abhorrent crime are brought to justice.
“The Inspector General of Police has mandated the deployment of all necessary resources and personnel to apprehend those responsible for this senseless killing of our officers.
Decisive response
“It is paramount to underscore that contrary to perceived notions in some quarters, the Nigeria Police Force is committed to responding decisively to the loss of its officers and men as a result of the many unforeseen hazards associated with our job due to the dynamics of crimes and criminality globally.
“Recent incidents, such as the murder of SP Angbashim in Rivers State, where the perpetrators have been painstakingly traced to their hideout and decimated during the exchange of gunfire with gallant operatives of the Force is a vital pointer.
“Notable also is the swift and robust response to the attack on the Police Command Headquarters in Adamawa State where one Inspector Jacob Daniel was gruesomely murdered, which was followed by a visit to Adamawa State by the IGP, and timeous response by Mr. President upon being briefed.
“Equally, efforts were intensified in that regard to seek redress and ensure sanctions for the attackers.
“The Nigeria Police Force unequivocally condemns any further assaults on Police Officers and other law enforcement personnel who selflessly dedicate themselves to safeguarding the lives and property of all citizens.
“He reiterated the NPF’s dedication to upholding law and order, and urged officers to remain resolute in the discharge of their lawful duties, undeterred by such cowardly acts.
”Similarly, individuals and groups peddling unnecessary and insensitive publications being circulated in the media space are urged not to make light of this loss to the NPF but to sympathize with the police in these sorrowful times.
“The Inspector General of Police assured police officers and men, as well as the public that no effort will be spared in bringing the perpetrators of this heinous act to justice as the killers have murdered sleep and will be tracked down to account for their reprehensible acts.
“He called upon well-meaning members of the public to collaborate with the Nigeria Police Force by providing any pertinent information that may aid in the apprehension of the perpetrators.
“Together, we will ensure that justice is served and peace and security prevail throughout the country”.
Imo incident
In the Imo incident, gunmen suspected to be members of the Eastern Security Network, ESN, yesterday, killed two police officers along old Gariki Road, Okigwe council.
The State Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, Henry Okoye, who confirmed the incident in a statement in Owerri, said the Commissioner of Police in the state, Aboki Danjuma, has tasked operatives to leave no stone unturned in ensuring that the perpetrators of the dastardly act were arrested and made to face the full wrath of the law.
Narrating how it happened, Okoye said the gunmen threw dynamite at the officers while on security patrol, killing two of the officers and injuring four.
The statement read: “On receipt of the ugly incident, the CP alongside Commander Mopol 18 and 64, immediately led operatives of the Command’s Special Tactical Unit to the crime scene for on-the-spot assessment and tasked the operatives to go all out in synergy with other security agencies and hunt down the hoodlums responsible for the attack.
“More so, Danjuma has mandated the Assistant Commissioner of Police in Charge of Okigwe, the DPO, and other Tactical units deployed in the area to embark on visibility patrol, intelligence-led raids of criminal hideouts, and place watertight security to forestall any future occurrence.
“The CP calls on the general public particularly the residents of Okigwe who may have any useful information that may assist the Police in the investigation to kindly do so by reporting at the nearest police station or via 08034773600, 08103341610.
“While empathizing with the families, friends, and loved ones of the deceased officers, the commissioner reiterates that the Command under his watch would not condone any form of attack on security personnel in the state.”
[Vanguard]
Nigeria’s minimum wage, the benchmark for money receivable by workers in Africa’s biggest economy at N30, 000, is the lowest among seven selected countries across Africa, a BusinessDay’s findings have shown.
Using an average N1,500 to a dollar exchange rate, a Nigerian worker goes home at the end of 30 working days with a meagre $20, an amount not enough to afford a half bag of rice in the present economy.
Meanwhile, as at 2023, workers in Seychelles, Libya, Morocco, Gabon, South Africa, Mauritius and Equatorial Guinea have $456, $325, $315, $256, $242, $240 and $224 respectively as their minimum “take home” at the end of the month.
Nigeria’s national minimum wage has been N18,000 for seven years until it was increased to N30,000 in 2018, an amount it has remained for the past six years.
Even as the country battles with record levels inflation at 31.70 percent in February, and cost of food which gulps a chunk of Nigerians’ income on a race at 37.92 percent, Nigerian workers are at the mercy of the economic headwinds.
The labour had said the current pay receivable by workers was not realistic, citing the stifling economic crisis which has seen the headline inflation of the country hit a 27-year record.
Given that the naira is strengthening against the bullish dollar, the country’s local currency still exchanges at about N1,300/$. However, in 2018 when the minimum wage was announced, naira sold at an average of N400 to a dollar at the parallel market.
Nigerian workers’ longstanding yearnings may see an end soon as there are growing indications that President Bola Tinubu may announce a new minimum wage during his inaugural Workers’ Day address on May 1.
In January, the Federal Government inaugurated the tripartite committee responsible for deliberating on the national minimum wage which was inaugurated by Vice President Kashim Shettima.
A 37-member panel was constituted at the Council Chamber of the State House in Abuja, comprising representatives of the federal and state governments, the private sector, and organised labour. The committee’s mandate is to propose a revised national minimum wage for the nation.
During zonal public hearings in Lagos, Kano, Enugu, Akwa Ibom, Adamawa, and Abuja, workers in the North-West requested N485,000; North-East, N560,000; North-Central, N709,000 (NLC) and N447,000 (TUC); South-West, N794,000; South-South, N850,000; and South-East, N540,000 by the NLC and N447,000 by the TUC.
However, the Adamawa and Bauchi state governments suggested N45,000 as the new minimum wage.
The NLC had on Friday said governors who fail to implement the new minimum wage when it becomes a law would be breaking the law, warning that it was working towards ensuring that tougher sanctions would be meted on such governors.
[Businessday]
Richard Taylor, campaigner and father of Damilola Taylor, who was killed 24 years ago in the United Kingdom (UK), is dead.
A statement issued by his family said the activist died on Saturday after a prolonged battle with prostate cancer at the age of 75.
“It is with a heavy heart that the family announce the death of our beloved father, grandfather and uncle, Mr Richard Adeyemi Taylor OBE, who sadly passed away in the early hours of Saturday, March 23 at Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Woolwich,” the statement reads.
DAMILOLA TAYLOR: THE CASE THAT SHOCKED UK
Damilola and his family moved from Nigeria to London in the summer of 2000 in search of a better life.
Taylor stayed back in Nigeria working as a civil servant while the family settled in Peckham seeking to get medical treatment for Gbemi, Damilola’s sister, who had a severe form of epilepsy.
The 10-year-old boy was said to have had medical ambitions to carry out research to help his sister.
On November 27, 2000, he was stabbed in the leg with broken glass by two brothers, Danny and Ricky Preddie, who were persistent young offenders.
According to CCTV footage, the boy was hopping and skipping on his way home from the library before the brothers apprehended him.
Damilola bled to death on a concrete stairwell a few hundred metres before his house.
His death sparked outrage in the UK.
Prosecutors said aside from his age, there was something about the boy’s character and appearance that appealed to people.
“He’s an engaging person, wearing school uniform. He’s smiling, has got an air of confidence about him and he looks positive about the future,” Nick Ephgrave, the detective who caught the Preddies, told the BBC.
Another factor was the time it took – six years and three trials – to identify and convict his killers.
Ephgrave said the conviction of the Preddies for manslaughter was one of the highlights of his 30-year policing career.
Taylor and his late wife Gloria were motivated to set up a charity in their son’s memory after his death.
He said he wanted his son to be remembered as a boy of hope.
In 2012, Taylor was awarded an officer of the order of the British Empire (OBE) for his activism against violent crime.
He dedicated it to the memory of the late Damilola.
[TheCable]
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has decided to extend the ongoing registration for Direct Entry by an additional two weeks to accommodate all prospective candidates in the process.
This is contained in a statement by JAMB’s Public Communication Advisor (PCA), Fabian Benjamin on Saturday.
The statement reads “The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) would be extending the 2024 Direct Entry (DE) registration by two weeks to enable all candidates desirous of DE registration to do so.
“The Board commenced the 2024 Direct Entry on Wednesday, 28th February, 2024, and was to have concluded it on Thursday, 28th March, 2024, but on subsequent consideration, has now extended the exercise by two weeks from Wednesday, 28th March, 2024, consequently bringing the registration to a close on Thursday, 11th April, 2024.
“This extension became necessary following the challenges faced by candidates in going through some of the security screening measures put in place to arrest the rampant and embarrassing cases of fake A’level certificates being paraded by some DE candidates.
“The Board apologises for the inconveniences caused the prospective DE candidates and pledges that, going forward, the process would be made more user-friendly.
“However, in doing this, the Board will not compromise on its avowed determination to ensure that candidates, whose certificates were dubiously acquired are prevented from benefiting from such certificates.
“It is also to be noted that candidates, whose certificate-issuing institutions are among those on the list of institutions that have not verified their certificates despite repeated requests, would not be allowed to register without doing the needful.”
The Lagos State chapter of the Labour Party (LP) has called for the resignation of the National Chairman of the party, Julius Abure, in order to uphold the party's integrity.
Rasheed Bamishe, the LP chairman in Lagos State, made the call at the party’s secretariat in Lagos on Saturday.
He urged the National Working Committee, members of the party Board of Trustees and other relevant stakeholders to prevent Abure from holding his proposed National Convention on March 27, 2024.
According to him, Abure should prioritize the party interest while a Caretaker National Chairman should be appointed to organize State Congresses before convening the National Convention.
“We urge Barrister Abure to leave the Party now because the litany of corrupt cases against him has done collateral damage to the image of the Labour Party.
“The Labour Party which was formed by the founding fathers to be a beckon of hope for millions of Nigerians is gradually being destroyed by Barrister Abure and this should not be allowed to continue,” he said.
Bamishe further stated that Abure was free to create his political party and manage its business but declared that the Labour Party, as a democratic organisation, cannot function as a one-man show.
He said that allegations of dishonesty, forgery, and fabrication of signatures have brought public shame and embarrassment to the Labour Party.
“Even if all these allegations are not true, the reasonable option open to the embattled Labour Party National Chairman is to step aside to pave the way for thorough investigations into the cases of alleged fraud against him.
“In a civilized clime, Barrister Abure should have exited office since the flurry of fraud cases against him became public knowledge but because of the culture of impunity in Nigeria, he is still clinging to power.
“Barrister Abure should tell the world where the National Convention of Labour Party in which he emerged as National Chairman was held.
“Barrister Abure is plotting to install himself again as the National Chairman of Labour Party through another illegal Convention and this should not be allowed to happen,” he stressed.
He emphasized the need for all stakeholders to unite to seek legitimate options including litigation to make sure Abure is removed from office to restore credibility, dignity, and integrity to the party.
The All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) has replied the national chairman of All Progressives Congress (APC), Alhaji Abdulahi Ganduje for saying that the state has remained politically dislocated from the centre because it has remained in APGA.
Ganduje, while speaking during a colloquium organized by APC in Nnewi on the issue of marginalization of the South East, said Amambra has been missing out because it has failed to belong to APC, which is the party controlling the federal government.
The National Publicity Secretary of APGA, Mazi Ejimofor Opara who reacted to the comment by Ganduje, said even though Anambra controlled by a minority party, it has remained better than most states that claim to have connected to the center.
Ejimofor reminded Ganduje that his activities in Kano as governor were some of the reasons the state chose a governor from New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), which is a minority party.
Ejimofor said: “First, I wonder the level of progress Kano State made under Ganduje’s APC that resulted in a revolutionary and historic rejection of the party by the people in 2023 as the people opted, instead, to vote for the NNPP and were ready to stake their lives to defend their votes.
“Ganduje should understand that the South East and Ndi Anambra in particular are more interested in why Kano State, after him, decided enmass to disconnect from the APC -controlled Centre.
“APC is nonexistent in Anambra and I am sure Ganduje himself knows this for a fact. Again, the continued existence of APGA in Anambra is performance based.
“Anambra, and indeed the South East is APGA land. There is no doubt about this, and even where the region decides to negotiate a handshake to the centre, the APC has proven not to be such a viable alternative. I sincerely hope that Mr. Ganduje will seek to really see that which is not hidden, than opting for deliberate ignorance.
“From Peter Obi, to Willie Obiano and now Professor Soludo, Anambra has remained on a trajectory of progressive growth, and it is for this reason even a political neophyte would state without double checking that Ganduje was either speaking to impress his host, or he is sincerely ignorant of the facts.
“Anambra under APGA has remained a state of many firsts, and in recent times the state under the Soludo government has won many awards.
“Recall that Anambra has won award as the state with best deployed ICT, and Anambra State ICT Agency under Mr Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata won that award. Anambra has also been named as the state with the least out-of-school children record.
“If all these awards are what it takes to be disconnected from the centre, then Anambra will gladly remain disconnected.”
Opara added that it is appalling that a political party that proposed a colloquium turned it into a political rally and ended up conducting a primary election, where the host senator, Ifeanyi Ubah was unashamedly declared the candidate of the party in the next election.
[Vanguard]
As Naira continues to strengthen against foreign currencies, especially the United States Dollar (USD) at both parallel and official markets, the foreign exchange on cargo clearance at the nation’s seaports and international airports across the country has been reduced again.
LEADERSHIP reports that the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), on Saturday, slashed the foreign exchange rate on cargo clearance from N1,572.507/$1 to N1448.386/$1.
The slash represents 7.8% reduction or a difference of N124.121 between the new and the old rates.
It was gathered that the exchange rate between the Naira and the Dollar At the official market strengthened to N1,431/$ on Friday, March 22, 2024, closing the week on a positive note.
Data from the FMDQOTC, where the exchange rate is officially set, revealed that the official currency gained 1.52% at the close of business, continuing a rally that has now lasted seven days.
The Naira has now gained over 12% in one week, suggesting that the apex bank’s policies, implemented aggressively since February, were beginning to yield fruits.
On the parallel market where the exchange rate trades unofficially, traders still quoted between N1400-N1480/$1 depending on who is buying or selling.
To this end, importers that opened Form ‘M’ on Wednesday will pay less to clear their cargoes as import duties are benchmarked against the dollar.
Also, importers will open Form ‘M’ at a lower rate compared to those who opened Form ‘M’ on Friday, March 23, 2024, according to the central bank’s new directive to Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) to use the rate on the date of submitting Form ‘M’ for calculating import duties.
Nigeria’s total public debt stock more than doubled to N97.3 trillion as at 2023 over the level in the previous year.
Latest data from the Dent Management Office (DMO) showed that the country’s total debt stock increased by 118 per cent year-on-year from N46.25 trillion as at December 2022 to N97.3 per cent in December 2023.
The DMO said the N97.3 trillion debt stock comprises of the domestic and external debt stocks of the Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN), 36 state governments and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
However, the public debt stock increased by N9.43 trillion in the last quarter of 2023 over the comparative figure for September 2023, which was largely due to new domestic borrowing by the FGN to part finance the deficit in the 2024 Appropriation Act and disbursements by multilateral and bilateral lenders,” DMO said on Friday.
Also, the massive depreciation of the Naira has resulted in a surge in the value of the country’s external debt which are dollar denominated.
Of the total debt, domestic debt constitutes a significant majority, standing at N59.12 trillion, accounting for 61 per cent of the total public debt stock.
Meanwhile, external debt amounted to 38.22 trillion Naira, representing the remaining 39 per cent.
Nigeria’s external debt structure reflects a strategic tilt towards loans from multilateral and bilateral lenders, which collectively
Despite the escalating debt figures, DMO says it maintains a commitment to implementing best practices in public debt management.
Moreover, concerted efforts by fiscal authorities to bolster revenue generation are anticipated to bolster debt sustainability moving forward. for 63.79 percent of the external debt stock. The dominance of these loans, primarily concessional and semi-concessional, underscores the nation’s prudent debt management strategy.
Despite the escalating debt figures, DMO says it maintains a commitment to implementing best practices in public debt management.
The sum of $3.5 billion was used to service external debt during the review period.
“Consistent with the debt management strategy, Nigeria’s external debt stock was skewed in favour of loans from multilateral (49.77 per cent) and bilateral lenders (14.02 per cent) or a total of 63.79 per cent which are mostly concessional and semi-concessional.
“Whilst the DMO continues to employ best practices in public debt management, the recent and ongoing efforts of the fiscal authorities to shore up revenue will support debt sustainability.”
Despite the escalating debt figures, DMO says it maintains a commitment to implementing best practices in public debt management.
Moreover, concerted efforts by fiscal authorities to bolster revenue generation are anticipated to bolster debt sustainability moving forward.
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In line with last Tuesday’s resolution of the Edo State House of Assembly, the Chief judge of the State, Justice Daniel Okungbowa has set up a seven-man panel to probe the petition against the Deputy Governor of the State, Philip Shaibu.
DAILY POST reports that the House of Assembly had on March 6, 2024, served a notice of impeachment on
the deputy governor, Philip Shaibu over alleged misconduct and perjury with seven days ultimatum to respond to the petition.
The House, due to alleged evasion by the deputy governor to be served the impeachment notice, ordered for a substituted means of service through the State-owned Observer Newspaper and the Vanguard Newspapers, respectively.
The notice was published on March 12, 2024.
The House in its plenary last Tuesday, March 19, 2024 passed a resolution directing the Chief Judge to set up a seven-man panel to probe the allegations levelled against the deputy governor.
DAILY POST reports that the Chief Judge complied on Friday.
A statement signed by the Chief Registrar of the State High Court, B.O. Osawaru, obtained by DAILY POST, named retired Justice
S.A. Omonua (Rtd), the chairman of the panel.
Three Professors from the University of Benin, UNIBEN, and Benson Idahosa University, BIU, are also members of the panel.
The professors are Violet Aigbokhaevbo, Faculty of Law, UNIBEN, Boniface Onomion Edegbai, Department of Plant Biology and Biotechnology, UNIBEN and Theresa Akpoghome, former Dean, Faculty of Law, BIU.
Other members are Surveyor Andrew Oliha, Oghogho Ayodele Oviasu and Idris Abdulkareen.
Part of the letter reads:
This is to bring to the notice of the general public that in line with Section 188(5) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), the Honourable Chief Judge of Edo State, Honourable Justice D.I. Okungbowa has constituted the PANEL OF SEVEN PERSONS to investigate the allegations contained in the impeachment notice against the Deputy Governor of Edo State, Rt. Honourable Philip Shaibu.
The said Panel of Seven Persons comprises the following
persons:
1. Hon. Justice S.A. Omonua (Rtd.) – chairman
2. Professor Violet Aigbokhaevbo
3. Professor Boniface Onomion Edegbai
4. Professor Theresa Akpoghome
5. Mr. Oghogho Ayodele Oviasu
6. Surv. Dr. Andrew Oliha
7. Mr. Idris Abdulkareen
Signed
B.0.Osawaru Esq.,
Chief Registrar.
N3.8 Trillion Stamp Duty Saga: Court Adjourns Case, Directs CBN To Explain Why Kasmal’s Request Should Be Denied
AFOLABIThe Federal High Court in Abuja, presided over by Justice Inyang Ekwo, has refused to grant an interim injunction restraining the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) from disbursing the N3.8 trillion naira deposited into the CBN NIPOST Stamp Duty Collection Account by Deposit Money Banks (DMBs) or commercial banks.
Kasmal International Services, represented by its legal team led by Dr. Alex Izinyon SAN, had approached the court claiming a percentage in the N3.8 trillion domiciled in the Stamp Duty Collection Account. The applicant joined the CBN and the Attorney-General of the Federation as respondents in the suit marked FHC/ABJ/CS/335/2024.
According to the applicant’s lawyer, Kasmal International Services was appointed by the Nigerian Postal Service (NIPOST) to represent them in the collection of a 50 naira stamp duty on all receipts given by banks or financial institutions for services rendered in respect of electronic transfers and teller deposits from N1,000 and above, in compliance with the Stamp Duties Act and the Nigeria Financial Regulations 2009. The agreement between NIPOST and the plaintiff included a remuneration of N7.50 from every 50-naira deduction.
The applicant argued that if the disbursement is done without considering its percentage, it will suffer irreparable losses. However, instead of granting the interim injunction, Justice Ekwo ordered the CBN to appear before the court and explain why the applicant’s request should not be granted.
At the resumed sitting on Friday, the court was informed that the CBN’s legal team had not yet shown cause as directed. Justice Ekwo then adjourned the matter to April 16 for hearing.
The stamp duty, an indirect tax imposed on several financial transactions, has been a subject of contention. In 2023, former CBN governor Godwin Emefiele revealed that the total revenue collected as stamp duty on behalf of the Federal Government between 2016 and 2022 was N370.686 billion.
The Defence Headquarters on Friday said it has declared 97 persons wanted for terrorism, violent extremism and secessionist threats against the state.
Prominent among the wanted persons is the factional leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, Simon Ekpa.
Major Gen Edwaed Buba, Director, Defence Media Operations, confirmed the names and pictures of the people declared wanted in Abuja on Friday night.
The wanted persons, terrorists/ bandits and insurgents commanders are from the North East, North West, North Central and South-East zones.
The military authorities did not place any bounty on the wanted persons.
A breakdown of the wanted persons shows that 43 were declared wanted in North West Zone plagued by banditry, and kidnapping among others.
Some bandits/terrorists leaders include: Alhaji Shingi; Malindi Yakubu; Boka ; Dogo Gide; Halilu Sububu; Ado Aliero ; Bello Turji; Dan Bokkolo; Labi Yadi ; Nagala; Saidu Idris; Kachalla Rugga and Sani Gurgu.
In the North East plagued by Boko Haram and Islamic State for West Africa Province terrorists, 33 persons were declared wanted.
Among them are terrorists commanders, Abu Zaida; Modu Sulum; Baba Data; Ahmad; Sani Teacher; Baa Sadiq; Abdul Saad; Kaka Abi; Mohammad Khalifa; Umar Tella; Abu Mutahid; Mallam Mohammad; Mallam Tahiru Baga; Uzaiya and Ali Ngule.
In the North Central and South East 21 Insurgents/militants and violent criminals were declared wanted.
They include factional IPOB leader Simon Ekpa; Chika Edoziem; Egede; Zuma, ThankGod Gentle; Flavour ; Mathew; David Ndubuisi ; High Chief Williams Agbor; Ebuka Nwaka; Friday Ojimka.
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Others in the South East include Obiemesi Chukwudi aka Dan Chuk ; David Ezekwem Chidiebube and Amobi Chinonso Okafor aka Temple .
The multi-billion naira Baro Inland Port in Agaie Local Government Area of Niger State, is yet to commence operation five years after it was inaugurated by former President Muhammadu Buhari, Daily Trust Saturday reports.
A gigantic mobile harbour crane overlooks the mass of water surging from the Niger River in front of the Baro Inland Port. It is one of the technical equipment for cargo handling that was procured for the take-off of the port ahead of its commissioning in 2019. Also staring at the water within the quay of the port is the Reach Starker and three forklifts, which, according to Usman Bumba, the port manager, are still in perfect condition and ready to perform their cargo handling functions.
But therein lays the paradox: this multi-billion-naira equipment, including other facilities, such as water hydrant system, water treatment plant and a 100 KVA generating set, have been lying dormant as no single cargo has been lifted or any vessel berthed since the ceremony unveiling the port for business activities over five years ago.
A visit by this reporter revealed that after the pomp and ceremony that heralded its inauguration by former President Muhammadu Buhari in January 2019, the Baro Inland Port, located in Agaie Local Government Area of Niger State, is yet to commence operation.
This is in spite of the fact that the N5.8billion project. which was awarded to a Chinese firm, CGCC Project Limited in 2011/12, has a cargo stacking yard of 7,000 square meters, a transit shed of 3,600 square meters and an estimated capacity of 5,000 Twenty-foot Equivalent Unit (TEU) at a time.
During the inauguration ceremony, Buhari said the project would enhance intermodal transportation connectivity in Nigeria, reduce the pressure of big trucks on the country’s roads, create huge economic opportunities for Nigerians and help in decongesting similar ports.
The then managing director of the National Inland Waterways Authority, Senator Olorunnimbe Mamora, said the completion of the port, which was abandoned by previous governments, would ensure the effective evacuation of farm produce and other commodities from Baro community.
On his part, former Governor Abubakar Bello said the port was a stepping stone for creating a Baro International Port City that would give Niger State global visibility and an effective source of sustainable income. He disclosed that a plan was underway for the acquisition of 728square kilometers of land for the master plan for the proposed Baro Smart International Port City and Regional Plan for Greater Baro Development Area, implementation of a rapid economic empowerment programme for the residents of Baro and its environs and the development of Baro International Port City.
Dashed hopes, expectations
However, a visit by Daily Trust Saturday to the facility showed that five years after commissioning formalities, the Baro Port remains a pipe dream as neither a cargo has been lifted nor a single vessel berthed.
“Our expectations for development are dimming by the day because since the port was commissioned, no activities have taken place there,” Ndagana Mohammed, a Baro-based school teacher said.
Mohammed said, “During construction, our environment, including farmlands, were destroyed. We made sacrifices to ensure that development came to our immediate community, but it appears that our efforts are in vain. We really don’t know what is happening.
“For over five years, the road from Agaie to Baro through Katcha has been dragging, thereby impacting negatively on our economic activities, such as fishing and farming. We are, however, hopeful that under the current Tinubu-led government, the port would take off.”
Like Mohammed, Ismaila Alhaji Aliyu, the councillor representing Baro ward at the Agaie Local Government, is also worried over the non-takeoff of the Baro Inland Port, five years after commissioning.
“It is worrisome because of the huge investments and immense benefits expected from the project. Any time I visit the place I get saddened, especially in view of the huge resources that have so far been committed into the project.
“During his recent visit to Niger State to commission a project, President Tinubu mentioned the Baro project, and I believe he would stand by his word by making it a reality.”
Why the port is yet to take off
Findings by Daily Trust Saturday indicate that apart from the issue of dredging, poor road network has been the main constraint in the takeoff of the Baro port.
It was observed that accessing the facility itself has been the major headache as the road and railway networks, which should serve as catalyst to its operation are in deplorable conditions.
There are two major roads to access the sprawling community – the 55km Baro/Katcha/Agaie and the Baro/Muye roads linking Gegu on the Abuja/Lokoja expressway, both of which are in a deplorable state.
The federal government is said to have initially awarded the contract for the Baro/Katcha/Agaie axis in 2009 but revoked it in 2012 due to an alleged failure on the part of the contractor to deliver the job on time.
However, the contract for the road was rewarded a few months to the 2015 general elections to an Indian firm, GR Building and Construction Nigeria Limited, at the cost of N17.5billion, with a 12-month completion period.
At the flag-off for the construction of the project in March 2015, the then Minister of Works, Mike Onolememen, reportedly said the road was among those the federal government planned to experiment with “rigid pavement” because it is the “gateway linking Baro Inland Port to other parts of the country.”
Daily Trust Saturday, however, learnt that after an initial release of funds by the Buhari administration, the contractor returned to the site, but progress has been quite slow due to government’s failure to advance additional funds for the project.
Findings showed that less than 20km of the road from the Agaie section has been asphalted, although the entire section, up to Katcha, was graded. However, the terrain between Katcha and Baro is a nightmare for commuters, especially during the rainy season.
Similarly, the Baro/Muye/Gegu section is also strategic as it links the port to the southern part of the country. But this section is equally in a deplorable condition and desperately needing intervention.
On the other hand, the rail network, a standard gauge line put in place by the colonialists to aid the movement of goods to the hinterland has become a relic.
“There used to be a railway network that linked Baro to Minna, established around 1911, but it became moribund in early 1970 despite its centrality in the transportation framework of the country,” Salihu Mohammed, the village head of Baro recalled.
He, however, lamented that since former President Buhari commissioned the project in 2019, nothing had happened in terms of takeoff, adding, “We have been expecting it to take off so as to boost our socio-economic activities.”
There are also concerns over the dredging carried out by the federal government following the construction of the port and the actual scope of the project itself.
Experts said the dredging supposedly carried out earlier was not the type that would allow for all-season navigation. A marine engineer said that even with the expensive dredging, there is a need for constant maintenance to sustain the draught.
Findings by Daily Trust Saturday indicate that almost 10 years after the supposed dredging, no maintenance dredging has been done at the Baro port. A source at the port said that after the initial dredging, there was supposed to be maintenance dredging every two years, but none had taken place since the last exercise.
All eyes on Tinubu
Several stakeholders have decried the current state of the Baro port and called on President Tinubu to urgently do something about it.
The chairman of Agaie Local Government of Niger State, Sayuti Halilu Ibrahim, said President Tinubu should make history by making Baro port a dream come true.
“This is the time to resuscitate the lost glory; it is about the people growing the economy. President Tinubu should make history by making Baro a reality. As a strategic port in the northern part of the country, we are hopeful that Tinubu would actualise it,” Ibrahim said.
While appealing for the completion of the access road from Agaie to Baro through Katcha, he said that apart from its economic advantages, the takeoff of Baro port, which is in the centre of the North, would also boost tourism.
In a similar vein, the Emir of Agaie, Alhaji Yusuf Nuhu, who expressed worry over the delay in the takeoff of the port said, “When it was commissioned, we thought it would take off immediately.
“That is the only access road for the haulage of goods from the port at Baro to the hinterland, and from Baro to ports in Lagos, Port-Harcourt, and vice versa.”
The emir, who spoke on the strategic importance of the port to the North and Nigeria in general, recalled the role it played during the colonial era in Nigeria.
“Baro used to be boisterous in the past when ships would be transported to the hinterland. The port was used to transport groundnut, cotton and some other goods from the North.
“Although it is yet to take off, we are not losing hope. I know that the road from Agaie to Baro through Katcha is one of the factors causing the. However, work on the road is ongoing and I believe it would be completed.” he said.
The emir called on President Tinubu to revisit the project and make it a reality.
Access road, maintenance dredging required – Port manager
Speaking on why the port is yet to take off over five years after commissioning, the Baro port manager, Usman Bumba, said lack of access road was a major problem.
“Due to lack of access road, concessioners who had showed interest in the project are being discouraged,” Bumba said.
He also said that since the initial dredging was carried out in 2009, there was the need for maintenance dredging of the river for enhanced navigability.
Bumba, however, said all the technical equipment procured for the port’s cargo handling were still in perfect condition.
He said, “I can tell you that concessioners who showed interest have been discouraged from coming here. There is also the need for maintenance dredging. But all technical equipment procured for cargo handling, such as mobile harbour crane, Reach Stacker and forklifts, are in perfect condition.”
[DailyTrust]