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The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited has reduced the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), also known as petrol, to N910 per litre from N935 per litre in Abuja.
However, the price adjustment has not yet been implemented in Lagos and other cities across Nigeria.
Meanwhile, Dangote Petroleum Refinery initiated the price adjustment last weekend, slashing the gantry price of petrol to N825 per litre from N835 per litre, as competition intensifies in the domestic market.
This follows a previous price reduction last month, when the 650,000 barrels per day refinery lowered the gantry price to N835 per litre from N865 per litre.
According to checks by Vanguard, the latest adjustment aims to provide customers with better value and consolidate Dangote’s leadership position in the domestic market.
According to Petroleumprice.ng, “With control over more than 50% of Nigeria’s fuel market, Dangote recently dropped its petrol price to ₦825 per litre. While the refinery hasn’t officially announced this, sources say it offers flexible deals to its bulk marketers, who now resell at ₦830 or slightly lower.
“This approach helps Dangote stay ahead of depot owners facing higher overheads.
“Dangote’s model has closed the price gap by ₦10 to ₦15, applying significant pressure on competitors.
“Nigeria’s fuel market is undergoing a transformation. Crude prices play a minimal role, while local strategies now dominate.
“Dangote’s growing market share stems from aggressive pricing and operational efficiency.
“Although consumers benefit in the short term, long-term effects may alter the country’s fuel supply landscape. As the price war continues, Dangote’s influence will likely expand, further straining smaller players.”
A Bitcoin mining company backed by the family of United States President Donald Trump announced that it was set to go public this year.
According to Bloomberg, the American Bitcoin Corporation, a newly launched firm majority-owned by crypto company Hut 8 Corp and partially owned by Eric Trump and Donald Trump Jr., will go public via an all-stock merger with Gryphon Digital Mining.
Following the merger, the combined entity will operate under the name American Bitcoin and is expected to list on Nasdaq under the ticker ABTC.
The deal is slated to close by the third quarter of 2025, likely by October.
LEADERSHIP recalls that this is not the first time the Trump’s family is venturing into the cryptocurrency business.
Previous ventures include World Liberty Financial and meme coins like $TRUMP and $MELANIA. With American Bitcoin, the family is now eyeing a large-scale Bitcoin mining and accumulating a strategic Bitcoin reserve.
Launched in March 2025, American Bitcoin positions itself as a “pure-play” mining firm focused exclusively on Bitcoin infrastructure and accumulation.
Once the merger is complete, existing shareholders, including the Trump brothers, will retain 98% ownership in the company.
Eric Trump will continue as Chief Strategic Officer, according to Reuters.
Eric described the company’s vision as building “the most investable Bitcoin accumulation platform in the market,” aiming to become “the world’s largest pure-play Bitcoin mining operation.”
Hut 8 CEO Asher Gennot added that the public listing would unlock access to dedicated growth capital without weighing on Hut 8’s balance sheet, while allowing shareholders to benefit from long-term Bitcoin upside.
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) acknowledges the significant volume of unusual complaints following the release of the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) results, which were officially published last Friday . In response, the Board is fast forwarding its annual system review—a comprehensive post-mortem of the examination process that is conducted each year months after the exercise.
The Board’s annual review encompasses three key stages: registration, examination, and result release. During the examination phase, JAMB ensures that every candidate is afforded the opportunity to sit for the test. Should any technical issues arise, the Board reschedules the examination for affected candidates without hesitation.
We are particularly concerned about the unusual complaints originating from a few states within the Federation. We are currently scrutinising these complaints in detail to identify and rectify any potential technical issues. To assist in this process, we have engaged a number of experts, including members from the Computer Professionals Association of Nigeria, Chief External Examiners, who are heads of tertiary institutions, the Educational Association and Research Network in Africa, measurement experts, and Vice Chancellors from various institutions. If it is determined that there were indeed glitches, we will implement appropriate remedial measures promptly, as we do in the case of the examinations themselves.
Fabian Benjamin, Ph.D.,
Public Communication Advisor, JAMB
The Academic Staff Union of Universities has elected a consultant psychiatrist at the University of Jos Teaching Hospital, Prof. Chris Piwuna, as its next president.
Piwuna, who is also the Dean of Student Affairs at the University of Jos, takes over from Victor Osodeke, a Professor of Soil Science from the Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Abia State.
The decision was taken at the 23rd National Delegates Congress of the Union, which took place in Benin on Sunday.
The election was contested between Piwuna and Prof. Adamu Babayo from the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi, according to verified sources familiar with the development.
Piwuna’s assumption of office comes amidst widespread speculations of industrial action following issues surrounding the sharing formula of the Earned Academic Allowances recently released by the Federal Government of Nigeria, brain drain, among others.
Key issues fueling these concerns include disputes over the sharing formula of the Earned Academic Allowances recently released by the Federal Government, as well as concerns over the ongoing brain drain affecting Nigeria’s academic sector.
Prof. Chris Piwuna, the Dean of Students Affairs at the University of Jos and a consultant psychiatrist at the University of Jos Teaching Hospital, has been elected as the new national president of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU).
He succeeds Prof. Emmanuel Osodeke, a Professor of Soil Science from Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike.
Piwuna’s election was confirmed during ASUU’s 23rd National Delegates Congress held on Sunday in Benin City, Edo State. He won against Prof. Adamu Babayo of Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi.
The new president will lead ASUU for the next four years.
[Vanguard]
Suspended Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has stated that he is not desperate to return to office, revealing that his “spirit left the Government House long ago.”
Fubara, however, acknowledged the immense support he had received from many people and emphasised the importance of standing by those who have made sacrifices for him.
He made the remarks on Sunday during a Night of Tributes organizsd by the Rivers Elders and Leaders Forum in honour of the late elder statesman, Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark.
The event took place at the Royal House of Grace Church in Port Harcourt, the state capital.
Fubara warned that the solemn occasion should not be misinterpreted, especially in light of some politically charged comments made by earlier speakers and clergy.
This marked his first public speech since President Bola Tinubu suspended him from office and declared a state of emergency in the state on March 18, 2025.
“If I had my way, I wouldn’t want to return,” Fubara said. “But many people, including the late Chief Clark, have made sacrifices for me. That’s why I must stand by them.”
Reacting to comments made by some speakers, Fubara expressed concern that the event might be misrepresented as a political rally targeting his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, and President Tinubu. He urged speakers to exercise restraint.
“This is my first time speaking publicly since the events of March 18,” he said. “I’ve attended several gatherings, but I’ve been careful with my words. When the mood of an event doesn’t align with my beliefs, I feel uncomfortable—because many of you don’t truly understand the situation.”
Fubara continued, “It’s not about shouting ‘Oshobe, Oshobe.’ At a point, that doesn’t solve anything. I had to be here because Pa Clark was special to me. My presence today is the most significant contribution I can make to honour him.”
He cautioned that the event’s focus should remain on paying tribute to the late Pa Clark and not veer into political territory.
“This programme is a tribute to Pa Clark. It’s not about Sim Fubara,” he stressed. “Even though I respect the message from the bishop, today is not the time for political declarations. Otherwise, people will leave here saying Fubara gathered his supporters to attack the minister or the President. That’s not my mission.”
He added, “Do you think I’m even interested in going back? Just look at me—I look better now. I have peace. If I had my way, I wouldn’t go back there. My spirit left Government House long ago.”
Fubara emphasised that not every battle is worth fighting and urged the public to ask whether he truly desires to return to power.
“Inasmuch as we must stand with those who made sacrifices for us, that doesn’t mean we should start shooting blindly. Let us stay focused,” he advised.
He reiterated that the gathering was to honour Pa Clark and urged participants to reflect on the late statesman’s legacy of peace, justice, and selfless service.
Meanwhile, in a statement released by his media aide, Nelson Chukwudi, Governor Fubara urged his supporters to refrain from confrontational rhetoric and to follow his example of strategic restraint and peacebuilding.
He noted that some remarks and actions by supporters were inconsistent with his own values and could further inflame tensions in the state.
Fubara said he often wonders whether his supporters truly consider whether their approach leads to peace and reconciliation.
He warned against acts that could worsen the already delicate situation.
As a leader, he said, he remained conscious of the weight of responsibility on his shoulders and is committed to acting within the law to restore stability and move Rivers State forward.
He also stated that he now enjoys peace of mind and better health and called on all to draw inspiration from the late Chief Clark’s life, particularly his dedication to unity, justice, and peace in the Niger Delta and Nigeria as a whole.
During his homily, Apostle Zilly Aggrey quoted James 4:13–16, Hebrews 12:14–15, and Matthew 7:12, stressing the need for wisdom and reconciliation among political actors.
Apostle Aggrey urged all parties involved in the crisis to make peace, emphasising that only a united people can overcome adversity.
He thanked former governor and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, for his role in Fubara’s emergence as governor and encouraged him to champion reconciliation for the good of the state.
Aggrey also commended PresidentTinubu for his efforts in managing the political crisis and appealed for more proactive measures to restore democratic stability in Rivers State.
Other dignitaries who spoke at the event included former Governor and Chairman of the Rivers Elders and Leaders Forum, Chief Rufus George; former Deputy Governor, Sir Gabriel Toby; Senator Benneth Birabi; Prof. Atuboyedia Obianime; Prof. Steve Azaiki; Ms. Ann Kio Briggs; Bishop Elkanah Hanson; Senator Andrew Uchendu; Chief Anabs Sara-Igbe; Prof. Roseline Konya; and Senator John Azuta Mbata.
Accompanying Governor Fubara were Senator John Azuta Mbata, Senator Adawari Michael Pepple, Chief Adokiye Amiesimaka, Chief Hanny Woko, Dr. Tammy Danagogo, Dr. Edison Ehie, and Chief Theodore Georgewill.
The occasion also drew the attendance of Awaji-Inombek Abiante, representing Andoni-Opobo/Nkoro Federal Constituency, Chikodi Dike, and other dignitaries.
Communique Issued At The End Of The Joint Meeting Of The Northern States Governors' Forum With The Chairmen Of The Northern States Traditional Rulers' Council, Held On Saturday, 10th May, 2025 At The Sir Kashim Ibrahim House, Kaduna
Admin
The Northern States Governors Forum convened a joint meeting with the Chairmen of the Northern States Traditional Rulers Council on Saturday, 10th May, 2025 at the Council Chamber of the Sir Kashim Ibrahim House, Kaduna.
The meeting was attended by Their Excellencies, the Governors of all 19 Northern States and Their Royal Highnesses, the Chairmen of the 19 Northern States Traditional Rulers' Councils.
Forum acknowledges the critical role of nonpartisan cooperation, collaboration, and peer review in effectively addressing the numerous developmental challenges confronting the northern region and the nation at large.
After exhaustive deliberations on matters of regional interest, particularly security, the Forum released the following communique:
1. The Forum commends Mr. President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR for his sustained commitment to addressing the security challenges and infrastructural deficits in Northern Nigeria.
2. The Forum resolved to liaise with the Nigerian Governors Forum to work out modalities of how to increase support to the Federal Security Agencies.
3. The Forum also resolved to strengthen peculiar local initiatives in combating all forms of security challenges.
4. The Forum also resolved to urgently set up inter-state platforms to coordinate surveillance on our joint borders.
5. The Forum reiterated its support for the creation of State Police and called on the National Assembly to expedite action on the enactment of the legal framework for its take off.
6. Forum's next meeting will hold on the 30th of August 2025.
Signed:
Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON
Governor of Gombe State/ Chairman, Northern States Governors' Forum
A Message from the Chris-Asoluka Family On the Peaceful Passing of Our Patriarch, Dr. Chris Asoluka (Okwuruoha)
Admin
With deep sorrow but grateful hearts, we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin, in-law, friend, and patriarch, Dr. Chris Asoluka (Okwuruoha).
Surrounded by love and held in grace, Daddy transitioned from this world just before midnight on Friday May 9th 2025 with the calm dignity that defined his life. A man of unwavering principles, strength, generosity, rare intellect, and profound wisdom, he lived a life rooted in service, compassion, and an unshakable commitment to family, community, and country.
Though our hearts sag heavy, we take comfort in the fullness of his legacy — the values he instilled, the lives he touched, and the unmatched example he set. He was our anchor, our counselor, our lifetime inspiration. His earthly absence is profound, but his spirit remains — in every lesson, every memory, every story told, and every life shaped by his presence.
We are thankful for the glorious gift of his life and for the grace with which he completed his earthly journey. As we begin this season of remembrance, thanksgiving, and celebration, we ask for your prayers, support, and love as we honour a man who meant so much to so many.
May OkwuruOwere’s brilliant unforgettable soul rest in perfect peace.
Important Dates to Note
Thursday 17th July 2025 – Service of Songs/Night of Tributes (Lagos)
Friday 18th July 2025 – Commendation Service (Our Saviour’s Church, Lagos)
Wednesday 23rd July 2025 – Service of Songs/Wake Keep (Ihiagwa, Owerri)
Thursday 24th July 2025 – Obsequies (Ihiagwa, Owerri)_
Sunday 27th July 2025 – Family Thanksgiving Service (Ihiagwa, Owerri)
– For the Chris Asoluka Family
Jamachi Chris-Asoluka (09081691729)
On behalf of the Board of Trustees, Governing Council, and Management of Augustine University Ilara, Epe, Lagos State, I, Femi Otedola CON, Chancellor, proudly congratulate our new Pope, Leo XIV , a devoted Augustinian Priest from whom our University draws its name and heritage… We are especially proud that His Holiness visited the Augustinian community in Abuja , in 2016, where he commissioned key projects. We pray for God’s guidance as he undertakes the sacred responsibility of leading 1.5 billion Catholics around the world. Long live the Pope!
Femi Otedola, CON
President Bola Tinubu, on Thursday, paid a working visit to Anambra State during which time he commissioned some projects executed by Governor Chukwuma Soludo.
Naija News reported that Governor Soludo commended the President for appointing people from the state into federal positions.
He also urged President Tinubu to address the marginalization of the South East region in some national projects.
Speaking, the President thanked the people of Anambra for welcoming him and conferring on him Omenife 1 of Awka.
He commended Governor Soludo for embarking on developmental projects that would boost the state’s economy.
Tinubu assured that he would address the challenges of the state and the region brought to his attention. He stressed that his administration was committed to addressing economic challenges facing the country.
The full text below:
“Anambra Kwenu! Anambra Kwenu!! Igbo Kwezuenu!!!
“About 30 months ago, I stood at this Venue as Candidate Bola Ahmed Tinubu. In less than two years since my assumption of office as your president, I am delighted to be back on a state visit and to commission some legacy projects by your state government. I come as a friend to the great people of Anambra and the Southeast. I salute your enterprise, innovation, and unwavering commitment to progress. Anambra has long stood as a beacon of commerce, intellect, and cultural strength — a pride not only to the Southeast but to Nigeria.
“My visit today bears a bold testament to parts of my speech during my campaign here. I recall vividly telling you then, “Charles Soludo, your son…is still my friend. I salute his vision. He is a brilliant man. He has the brain. He is a thinker. He knows the way. We will work together inclusively. When I become the president, Soludo will be one of those advisors who will bring prosperity back to you”. From what I have seen and heard, it is evident that a solid foundation is being laid, and Anambra is indeed on the rise. Charles Soludo has been my friend since 2003, and I can also confirm that we are working together for a better Anambra and Nigeria.
“I have just commissioned two landmark projects—the Solution Fun City and the Government House mini-city as part of the initial steps towards your audacious vision of Anambra as African-Dubai-Taiwan-Silicon Valley (ADTS). Together with the massive infrastructural transformation and human capital development, these are bold statements of vision and what leadership can achieve in such a short time. A few years ago, Dubai was largely a desert. Today, it is a global hub because one man dared to dream. I remember when Soludo wanted to consolidate the Nigerian banks; many said it was impossible. It was done, and Nigeria became better for it. I also recall when we dared to tame the Atlantic Ocean, and many naysayers doubted it. But we made it happen. Anambra has huge potential, and with Soludo, we can all work together to fast-track the vision.
“Let me commend the Government of Anambra State for its proactive efforts in improving security. I wish to assure you that the Federal Government will continue to partner with the State and the Southeast to secure our people and their future.
“I have noted the state’s various challenges and your request for assistance and partnership. We will continue to partner with your state to deliver shared prosperity to Ndi Anambra and all Nigerians.
“As your president, I am pleased to assure you that the nation’s state is strong and getting stronger by the day under our Renewed Hope Agenda. We met near-insolvent public finance, a decades-old monster of unsustainable multiple subsidies, a chaotic and debilitating forex regime, etc. Like we tamed the Atlantic in Lagos, many of these monsters have been tackled: petroleum and forex subsidies have been tamed; macroeconomic stability has returned within predictable bounds; tax reforms are on the way, etc. These reforms are difficult, yes, but inevitable. Everyone had long recognised their imperatives. Courage and our collective action were required to confront them to lay a strong foundation for a more stable, prosperous and inclusive economy. Already, we are seeing renewed investor confidence, expanding opportunities, and targeted support for small businesses, especially in the tech and manufacturing sectors where Anambra is already excelling. Agriculture is receiving massive attention, and the results are beginning to show.
“We have renegotiated and passed a new minimum wage into law as part of our effort to cushion the effect of these reforms on the working class. I am particularly happy that the Government of Anambra State has fully implemented the new minimum wage, and I understand that you are paying above the National minimum.
“We are working to build critical infrastructure — roads, rail, and power — and ensure that every corner of Nigeria, including Anambra, feels the impact of governance that works. The Presidential Power Initiative and the ongoing digital economy drive will open more doors for the resourceful people of this State.
“We continue to plead with Nigerians for their patience and understanding. We call on all patriots and progressives to rise and continue to work hard every day for the greatness of our dear country. We have no other country but Nigeria. We must make it great as the pride of the black race.
“Before I conclude, let me thank the government and the great people of Anambra State for your warm hospitality. In particular, I feel deeply honoured by the conferment of a Chieftaincy title by all the traditional rulers of Anambra State on behalf of the State. In 2005, the traditional ruler of Awka, HRH Gibson Nwosu (Eze Uzu II), conferred on me the title of Omenife Awka. To have all the traditional rulers of Anambra confer another title on me today is not only historic but one which I will greatly treasure for the rest of my life. Thank you to the traditional rulers.
“Thank you, Ndi Anambra.
“Many of my friends are from Anambra state, and I have seen many of them today. Going forward, we are not just friends: I am now a bona fide son of the soil—one of you, your own son! Maybe my friend and your governor, Charles Soludo, should find me a plot of land for my retirement home after service.
“It is well with Anambra State! It is well with Nigeria!! God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
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![[PRESS RELEASE] Subscription Hike: FCCPC Floors Multichoice](/media/k2/items/cache/b55adfc834403765df29db9c4426da20_XS.jpg)
Court affirms Commission’s power to investigate exploitation
Tunji Bello welcomes judgement
Thursday, May 8, 2025: The Abuja Federal High Court today struck out the suit filed by MultiChoice Nigeria Limited seeking to restrain the FCCPC from investigating its recent price increases for DStv and GOtv services, declaring it an abuse of court process.
The court, presided over by Justice James Omotosho, ruled that MultiChoice’s suit was duplicative and improper, given the existence of a similar matter involving the same parties pending before another court.
Consequently, the Court struck out the application in its entirety.
Recall that Multichoice had defied FCCPC’s invitation in February and proceeded to hike subscription rates barely eight months after similar increase. Instead, the cable service provider filed an application to restrain the Commission from asking questions as to the rationale behind its incessant price increase.
In his ruling, Justice Omotosho went further to affirm key provisions of the FCCPA 2018 regarding price regulation and the scope of the Commission’s mandate.
The FCCPC’s legal team was led by Prof. Joseph Abugu (SAN), while Mr. J. Onigbanjo (SAN) led the MultiChoice’s team.
The Court recognized that Section 88 of the FCCPA vests the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria with the authority to regulate the prices of goods and services when necessary. It also affirmed that the President may delegate this authority to any agency, particularly the FCCPC, for enforcement.
The Court further upheld that, under Section 17 of the FCCPA, the FCCPC is empowered to investigate exploitative pricing practices and to submit its findings, data, and recommendations to the President to inform decisions on price regulation.
Additionally, the Court confirmed that once the President declares specific goods or services as subject to price regulation, the FCCPC possesses full enforcement powers to implement such regulations.
In a swift reaction, the Executive Vice Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the Commission, Mr. Tunji Bello, described the ruling as an affirmation of the rule of law and a significant step towards curbing procedural tactics aimed at obstructing lawful regulatory oversight.
“It sends a clear message that regulatory agencies will not be hindered by procedural roadblocks when exercising their lawful mandate to ensure fairness, transparency, and accountability in the marketplace,” he stated.
According to him, “Nigerian consumers can be assured that the Commission is fully committed to investigating and addressing exploitative pricing and other anti-consumer practices, in line with the provisions of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018.”
Ondaje Ijagwu
Director, Corporate Affairs
The Julius Abure-led faction of the Labour Party has suspended six prominent members of the party, including the party’s only elected governor, Alex Otti of Abia State.
This decision was contained in a statement issued by the faction’s National Secretary, Umar Farouk, in Abuja, on Wednesday.
He said, “Recall that last Friday, 2nd of May 2025, the National Executive Committee (NEC) of the Labour Party set up a five-man Disciplinary Committee headed by the Deputy National Chairman, Dr Ayo Olorunfemi, Alhaji Umar Farouk Ibrahim, the National Secretary and three others to investigate Abia State Governor, Dr Alex Otti, and any other party members over allegations of anti-party activities.
“The Disciplinary Committee has concluded their assignment and has submitted their report to the party leadership. The National Executive of the party met today, May 7th, 2025, and after exhaustive deliberation in line with powers donated to it by the Party Constitution, has ratified the recommendation as submitted by the Disciplinary Committee.
“Consequent upon that, the following members of the party have been suspended from the party and all its activities, indefinitely and with immediate effect. 1. Dr Alex Otti; 2. Senator Ireti Kingibe; 3. Senator Darlington Nwokocha; 4. Hon. Victor Afam Ogene; 5. Hon. Amobi Ogah; 6. Hon. Seyi Sowunmi.”
“By this suspension, these former members of the party will no longer act for and on behalf of the party. All concerned institutions, including the Nigeria Governors Forum, the National Assembly, INEC and security agencies, among others, are to take note.
The party also clarified that Nenadi Usman was not included in the suspension list because she is not a registered member of the Labour Party, but merely a supporter of its 2023 presidential candidate.
“We are aware that she is a member of the Obidient Support group that worked and is still working for the party’s 2023 presidential candidate. We will therefore not honour her with any sanction being not a member of the party,” the statement added.
“She should also tell Nigerians how she acquired her radio station in Kaduna, all her properties all over Nigeria and abroad, and her companies in Cameroon, including her plantations. Nenadi Usman lacks the moral capacity to commence any probe or even talk about corruption,” the statement added.
Reaffirming its position on political independence, the Labour Party declared that it will not enter into any coalition or merger ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“Finally, the party has since taken a position on the issue of coalition, and we want to reiterate that the party is not interested in any overtures by any group or persons to go into any coalition or merger,” the statement added.
“Like we have earlier stated, the protagonists of the coalition, those driving the agenda, lack the capacity, character and competence to midwife such a political arrangement. These are people who have failed to manage one political party; how can they manage an amalgam of political parties and their varied interests? The Labour Party intends to prosecute the 2027 general election as a standalone party, and no further discussion will be entertained on this matter.”
The leadership of the 10th Senate has postponed the passage of President Bola Tinubu’s tax reform bills to Wednesday for proper scrutiny and debate.
The four bills, Nigerian Tax Bill, Tax Administration Bill, Revenue Tax Board Bill, and Nigerian Revenue Service Establishment Bill were forwarded by the President six months ago as part of efforts to reform the country’s fiscal policies and boost revenue generation.
The delay in the passage of the bills had raised concerns, especially after the House of Representatives approved them two weeks ago, putting pressure on the Red Chamber.
In a related development, the Senate leadership resolved to hold a two-day national security summit to brainstorm a solution to the rising wave of killings and other forms of insecurity in the country.
The decision followed a motion sponsored by Jimoh Ibrahim, senator representing Ondo south, at the resumption of plenary on Tuesday.
While on a working visit to France, bandits in a senseless campaign of violence killed innocent Nigerians in Plateau, Benue and Zamfara States, culminating in calls for President Bola Tinubu to cut short his vacation to return home to lead the fight against insecurity from the front.
Leading the debate, Ibrahim said the “high level” of global insecurity is driven by events in Russia and Ukraine and compounded by tensions between the global north and global south.
According to him, the issues have continuously worsened food insecurity and affected the attainment of the sustainable development goals.
The former Ondo governorship aspirant emphasised that the ongoing trade tariff war in America and the growing emphasis on balance of power in global affairs are gradually giving way to a new world order.
“This new order reflects in immigration policies, visa cancellations by new regimes, and countries raising funds by selling citizenship — all of which fuel economic conflict and undermine globalisation pursued over the last sixty years,” he said.
Continuing, Ibrahim said Nigeria must clarify its strategic engagement in international affairs, noting that the Senate has a role in advising the executive to maximise national interest
“The next world war may not even require the fanfare of militarism. The incredible growing economic war is gaining ground with destructive innovation in security globally
“There is a need for alternative language in military engagement as well as enhanced funding to advance the professional practices and respected tradition of the future military,” he stated.
He therefore called for an “empirical fact-finding national security summit” to help develop far-reaching solutions.
The senator representing Katsina South, Mohammed Dandutse, seconded the motion, saying the lack of intelligence sharing among security agencies was a major setback.
He said, “Nigeria is blessed, we have no other country except Nigeria. We have to face these criminals squarely. No country succeeds except with peace and security.
“The security agencies are given funding. So there is a need for the judicious spending of these resources.”
The senator representing Abia South, Enyinnaya Abaribe and the senator representing Kebbi Central, Adamu Aliero, however, disagreed with the move.
Both lawmakers argued that a security summit may not be the solution
The senator representing Benue North-West, Titus Zam and the senate minority leader, Abba Moro,, countered their view by backing the motion.
At the end, Senate President Godswill Akpabio put the motion to a voice vote, and the majority of senators voted in favour of the summit.
Akpabio, however, proposed that the summit should last for two days instead of the three days proposed by Ibrahim.
The senate subsequently resolved to set up an ad-hoc committee to organise the two-day national security summit in Abuja
The event will include delegates from all levels of government, as well as traditional institutions.
The red chamber also urged the federal government to review and rejig the country’s security policies based on outcomes from the summit.
[POMR PRESS STATEMENT] PDP Chieftain says Obi is the only authentic Presidential Candidate for 2027
Admin![[POMR PRESS STATEMENT] PDP Chieftain says Obi is the only authentic Presidential Candidate for 2027](/media/k2/items/cache/25386a1d44f4b1c39e0c1e88bd7421ae_XS.jpg)
….As Nenadi, Kingibe others bemoan the hardship in the country.
The hardship in the country vis-à-vis the plight of Nigerian workers was at the centre of the conversation in Abuja on Friday as some members of the Obidient Movement powered by the Cyrus Group and Free Nigeria Foundation held a talk show as part of the May Day celebration.
The high points of the well-attended event at the Merit House, Maitama, Abuja were the remarks of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP frontline Chieftain Dr Segun Sowunmi, who declared that the 2023 Labour Party standard bearer, Peter Obi, remains the only authentic Presidential candidate for 2027.
According to Dr Sowunmi, “You know I am of the PDP but the future of Nigeria is in Peter Obi. He is the only authentic candidate all others are fake”
He said that Obi is restless to see Nigeria work, and he is everywhere looking for answers to our problems, unlike others who are just waiting for what they are not ready for. “I am very uncomfortable that we are busy passing the batten between the North and the South West, leaving the very critical section of the country, the Igbo, even when they have Obi, who is the future.
Dr Sowunmi supported his position with historical illustrations and the story of the circumstance that brought Obi into politics which underscores the fact that Obi is basically in politics to change the country. He charged the Obidient Movement and the Labour Party to emulate the Labour Party in Brazil and work hard to lead the change that is needed in this country.
The Acting National Chairman of the Labour Party, Senator Nenadi Usman, said that the Labour Party actually belongs to Workers wherever they are, at the construction site, in hospitals, in the security sector, etc.
She said that the Labour Party takes any issue concerning workers' welfare very seriously and gave five deals the LP has to restore the dignity of Nigerian workers including, among others, giving workers living wages, Labour rights, non-negotiable health and housing programs for workers, and enforcement of Labour laws.
She said that workers cannot be the creators of wealth and live in penury, pointing out that everything about the Labour struggle is for the welfare of the people.
Dr Nenadi said that a government can be busy clapping for itself that it has achieved a lot but once it’s not reflected in the welfare of the people, it’s no governance.
“They can lock everyone, but they cannot luck God. 'Stay the course; don’t sell your birthright for the sake of tomorrow’s children”, the LP acting boss concluded.
The famous poet, Dike Chukwumerije, also addressed the audience, charging Nigerians to brace up for the inevitable change even if it would take eighty years, but it’s desirable not necessarily for this generation but for the sake of our children and children’s children.
Also speaking at the event, the FCT Senator Ireti Kingibe berated the obedient and the youths of Nigeria for not doing enough to take and own the country.”You are too quiet in this country and we are going down in this country, the Labour Party Senator screamed to the audience.
The other highlight of the occasion was the questions and answers session as the FCT Senator took the hot seat to respond to her constituents. While the questions to her were hot, she was equal to them addressing all the issues squarely.
The coordinator of the talk show and the Director of the Free Nigeria Foundation, Dr Moses Paul, sent warning signals to all those thinking that 2027 is going to be business as usual, declaring a ‘never again’ mantra for 2027. Dr Paul, popularly known as Dr Mo., particularly sent a message to the FCT Minister Nyesom WIKE to stop intimidating Abuja residents over election because the voters know where they are and where they are going.
The iconic gospel musician Bongos Ikwue was among the elders and other Labour veterans who graced the highly successful gathering.
Signed
Ibrahim Umar
POMR Spokesman