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The Federal Government of Nigeria has refuted “in very strong terms” allegations that it is plotting to destabilise neighbouring Niger Republic.
The Nigerien authorities alleged that the Lakurawa terrorist group, with the help of foreign security forces, including Nigerian security forces, were responsible for the attack on the Niger-Benin oil pipeline on December 13, 2024, in Gaya, Dosso Region of Niger Republic.
However, Nigeria, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in a statement on Saturday signed by its acting spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, refuted the allegation.
“The Government of Nigeria condoles with the Government of Niger over the unfortunate attack on the oil pipeline, but informs that the perpetrators were neither backed nor assisted by Nigerian authorities.
“The Government of Nigeria is strongly committed to the fight against terrorism and will not condone or support the activities of such groups.
“The Federal Government of Nigeria also expresses very serious concern and states categorically that there are no French military troops in the northern part of the country preparing to destabilize the Government of Niger.
“These allegations are unfounded and should be discarded in their entirety,” the Statement read in part.
It also noted that the relationship between Nigeria and France had always been cordial, saying it is guided by mutual respect, dignity, and non-interference in each other’s internal affairs.
The government of Nigeria assured that it would continue to explore all peaceful means to maintain its cordial relationship with the Republic of Niger for the benefit of the people of both countries.
[DailyTrust]
[STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE] President Tinubu Cancels Scheduled Events In Lagos In Honour Of Victims Of Stampede In FCT, Anambra
Admin![[STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE] President Tinubu Cancels Scheduled Events In Lagos In Honour Of Victims Of Stampede In FCT, Anambra](/media/k2/items/cache/b50d5ce4ac9a248098c7605613f8e159_L.jpg)
President Bola Tinubu cancelled all his official events in Lagos today, including his attendance at the 2024 Lagos Boat Regatta in honour of the stampede victims in Abuja and Okija, Anambra State.
The two tragedies claimed many lives and left many others injured.
President Tinubu was scheduled to watch the boat parade and other activities of the Boat Regatta from the waterfront of his Queen's Drive residence in Ikoyi.
Dignitaries, including top officials of the Lagos State government and white cap chiefs from the State, were already seated when the President cancelled his appearance following briefings on the tragedies.
Commiserating with the victims of the unfortunate incidents in Anambra and the Federal Capital Territory, President Tinubu urged states and relevant authorities to enforce strict crowd control measures immediately.
He noted that it was very disturbing that the events at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama, Abuja, and a community Centre in Okija, Anambra State, bore a distressing resemblance to the recent incident in Ibadan, Oyo State.
He said local and state authorities should no longer tolerate operational lapses by organisations and corporate bodies involved in charitable and humanitarian activities.
While praying for the peaceful repose of innocent Nigerians who died in the stampede, President Tinubu wished a quick recovery to the injured.
He reiterated that these mishaps are avoidable if event planners adhere to necessary safeguards and protocols to ensure pre- and post-event safety.
''In a season of joy and celebration, we grieve with fellow citizens mourning the painful losses of their loved ones. Our prayers of divine comfort and healing are with them,'' President Tinubu said.
The President wished the Lagos State government, organisers of the Boat Regatta, themed ''Our Water, Our Heritage, Our Life,'' a successful and hitch-free festival.
Bayo Onanuga
Special Adviser to the President
(Information & Strategy)
Less than one month after the Port Harcourt Refining Company appeared to have resumed production, the facility has stopped working.
Our correspondent, who visited the refinery on Thursday, December 19, 2024, observed that the lifting of Premium Motor Spirit (petrol) had stopped.
It was gathered that lifting of petrol actually stopped since December 13, as the 18-arm loading bay of the new Port Harcourt refinery was empty.
While about 18 trucks littered the stretch of the busy road leading to the refinery itself, nine trucks were spotted inside the parking yard, while the loading bay was empty.
The depot, which is usually a beehive of activities where tankers scramble for space at the parking yard, was a shadow of itself with literally no vehicular or human activity relating to operations.
$1.5bn celebration
Recall that the inauguration of the 60,000 barrel per day production capacity plant by the Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, Mele Kyari, on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, was met with celebration and fanfare. This was after $1.5bn was approved in March 2021 and spent on the rehabilitation of the facility.
During the re-opening of the facility, there was lifting of petrol to the excitement of the cheering crowd.
However, less than 10 trucks of petrol were lifted that day as against widespread claims that about 200 trucks carried petrol out of the bay.
Our correspondent also reported that no sooner had Kyari returned to Abuja than things returned to the old way, amidst allegations by stakeholders that the petrol lifted during the inauguration was old stock from the storage tank.
When our correspondent first visited the refinery three weeks ago, it was discovered that the loading bay was deserted without the lifting of products.
In response to the discovery, the Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria said operations were scaled down due to the calibration of meters at the loading bay and de-watering of the old stock, which had to be emptied to pave the way to receiving newly refined products.
A fortnight ago, tanker drivers drove in and started loading once again.
Journalists were also taken on a guided tour of the refinery, led by its Managing Director, Ibrahim Onoja.
Onoja stated, “The plant is running and we are trucking out our products. We have carried out an extensive revamp of this plant and changed most of the equipment.
“The pump and instrumentation, the cables are all brand new. So what we have done here is massive change and upgrade of the plant.”
Afterward, there was marked improvement as about 11 trucks lifted products, even as it was better the next day.
Back to default
However, when Saturday PUNCH visited on Thursday, it was learnt that production activities stopped one week ago.
A handful of drivers were seen sleeping in their trucks while doing nothing.
One of them, who spoke Hausa, said he learned the lifting of PMS would resume next Monday.
He, however, expressed doubt about the information as he counted the number of days with his fingers and muttered, “Three days; they said they would load on Monday.”
The number of workers and visitors could easily be counted as there were more security men clad in black trousers and blue shirts.
The guards were stationed at the entrance of the depot and the loading bay, and inside the loading bay itself. They kept themselves busy as they chatted away.
Speaking to our correspondent, another truck driver said, “It was Friday last week they loaded last. About 15 trucks or so loaded that day. Since then, not even a single truck has been loaded till now.”
Asked if any explanation was given, he replied, “I don’t know. Nobody is giving us any information or telling us anything. Some trucks that were here have left. I’m just here because my director said I should wait a bit.”
Meanwhile, a petroleum product marketer, Dappa Jubobaraye, has decried the state of refineries in the country.
Jubobaraye alleged that since Kyari inaugurated the plant, no production had taken place, pointing out that everything was just a show.
He stated, “It was intended to deceive Nigerians that the refinery is working and that is why they came up with that show. That day, only about four or five trucks loaded products.
“The loading meter was not calibrated before they started operation. Of the 18 loading arms at the bay only three are working and they have leakages. So, they have been trying to load three, four, five trucks, sometimes 10 just to show that they are working while they are not working.
“Since Mele Kyari came and left, the independent marketers have yet to load products from this depot because the NNPC is yet to fix prices for them to buy tickets and start loading products. They are only loading them to their own mega stations.
“The situation right now is that loading of PMS is not taking place because they don’t have the intention to make this place work. It is just to deceive the people.
“If you come into this place (depot), you will see trucks packed and think that loading is on; but the truth is that they are not working. Some tanker drivers have gone because they can’t come and waste time here.”
He continued, “How can you come here with the hope of loading and you stay here with your truck for two weeks, for what? Before the work stopped last week, they were loading up to 10, 15 but below 20.
“Ordinary one of the arms in the loading bay can load up to 20 to 30 trucks in a day. But for now, they are using only three arms out of the 18 loading arms inside the bay and the three are just for PMS alone. They have not started loading DPK (kerosene) and AGO (diesel). And kerosene is what concerns the ordinary more.”
Efforts to reach the spokesperson for the NNPC, Femi Soneye, were abortive as he did not take his calls or respond to a text message sent to him as of the time of filing this report.
Wale Edun, minister of finance and coordinating minister of the economy, says the country needs to invest $20 billion annually to achieve the government’s economic targets by 2027.
Edun spoke on Friday during the citizens and stakeholders engagement on the implementation of presidential priorities and ministerial deliverables for the fourth quarter (Q4) of 2024, in Abuja.
The minister said the additional $20 billion per year was required to grow the economy by an average of 6.3 percent in the medium term.
“We need significantly more growth, an additional $20 billion is the target we need for social infrastructure to facilitate logistics for agriculture,” he said.
The minister also said the government would rely primarily on increased revenue to meet the ambitious target.
He said there was a need for a robust tax revenue framework to secure the necessary funding, adding that sustainable economic growth hinged on the strategy.
“To achieve this target and grow the economy, the government can only secure the funds from revenue,” Edun said.
“Tax revenue needs to be increased to reach the desired levels.”
He said controlling the fiscal deficit and ensuring a stable exchange rate would boost investor confidence.
According to Edun, it will lead to more business activity in the country and increased tax revenue from investments.
“Once the deficit and exchange rate are under control, it will encourage investors to come and do business in Nigeria. In turn, they will pay their taxes,” he said.
Edun further said President Bola Tinubu’s renewed hope agenda had been a huge success.
On her part, Doris Uzoka-Anite, minister of state for finance, said the federal ministry of finance, just like every other ministry, has a bilateral engagement with departments and agencies under its supervision to report the ministry’s performance quarterly.
“The two major revenue generating agencies under the supervision of the ministry are the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and Nigeria Custom service,” Uzoka-Anite said.
“They performed above their target and this is highly commendable.”
Uzoka-Anite said all the agencies under the ministry have performed well.
N50TRN BUDGET FOR 2025
Edun said the government projects a N50 trillion budget for 2025, with N35 trillion in expected revenue, nearly doubling 2024 levels.
According to the minister, the plan is to focus on strategic investments and robust reforms.
“To achieve this goal, the government has implemented subsidy reforms, which have stabilized the macroeconomic environment, reducing the fiscal deficit to 4.4 percent and debt service-to-revenue ratio from 149 percent in 2023 to 67 percent,” Edun said.
“Foreign reserves have also grown significantly, reaching $42 billion.
“The plan focuses on several key sectors, including energy, agriculture, industry, and social protection.
“Investments in compressed natural gas, LPG, and renewable energy are accelerating, while efforts to achieve food security include large-scale farming programs.
“Nigeria is also leveraging its digital economy, with startups dominating Africa’s unicorn landscape.”
Edun said with the comprehensive plan, Nigeria is poised to achieve sustainable growth and poverty reduction, improving the quality of life for all Nigerians.
A court of appeal in Kaduna has ruled that the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) should not impound foreign rice in the open market or on highways.
In a judgment delivered on December 6, a three-member panel of justices led by Ntong Ntong held that existing laws restrict NCS’ enforcement to land borders only.
The judgment was delivered in an appeal filed by the NCS, against a decision of the federal high court that acquitted one Suleiman Mohammed, a businessman, of charges related to the importation of rice.
BACKGROUND
Customs had arrested Mohammed after seizing a truck carrying 613 bags of foreign rice and 80 bags of millet belonging to the businessman on June 14, 2019, along the Kaduna-Zaria expressway.
Mohammed was charged and arraigned on a two-count charge.
However, in a judgment delivered on November 10, 2021, Z. B. Abubakar, trial judge, acquitted the defendants of the charges.
Abubakar held that the plaintiffs (customs) failed to adduce enough evidence to prove that the defendant imported the goods.
The judge also held that there is no subsisting blanket ban on the importation of foreign rice as claimed by the plaintiffs.
“…the evidence led by the prosecution through PW1, PW2, PW3 and the Exhibits tendered has not established that the Defendant imported Exhibit ‘NCS B1-B612’. Even the investigation conducted by the complainant (Nigeria Customs Service Board) on Exhibit ‘NCS B1-B612,” the judge held.
“As a matter of fact, Exhibit ‘NCS D’ could not reveal who imported the said Exhibits or where they imported from.
“It should be borne in mind that importation of foreign rice is not absolutely or totally prohibited. It is only importation of the product through the land borders of this country that was proscribed by the Federal Government vide Circular No. NCS/TXT/1XE/045/S.416/VOL.1X of 18th March, 2016. The circular provided that foreign rice only be imported into the country through seaports.”
The trial judge held that the prosecution failed to show that the goods were imported through land borders, adding that “the said exhibits could have been imported through the seaport, and the court is entitled to presume so”.
Furthermore, the lower court held that “loading any foreign rice into a truck is not an offence under both Sections 46(b) and 47(1) (a) (ii) of Customs and Excise Management Act (CEMA) (Supra)”.
“It is the landing or unloading of goods or foreign rice at designated customs port CA/K/33/C/2022 or wharf that is prohibited by the aforementioned provisions of the Act,” the judge ruled.
‘APPEAL IS A HOAX’
Aggrieved by the trial court’s judgment, NCS filed an appeal.
However, the appellate court commended the trial court judge for “doing justice in the evaluation of the law and evidence adduced before it”.
Ntong said he agreed with the arguments put forward by the respondent’s lawyer and the judgment of the trial court.
“Truly, I also agree with the learned trial judge, that Kaduna-Zaria expressway is not a “Land border” as stipulated by the law and Exhibit “NCS D,” the justice held.
“Importation of foreign rice in any wise is not generally prohibited. It is restricted to land borders alone.
“If I were in the shoes of the appellant (NCS), I would have honourably thrown in the towel as this appeal is simply a hoax, a fluke and unmeritorious whatsoever.
“From the evidence in the Record of Appeal, the Respondent was merely a purchaser for value and not an importer. The Appellant ought to have arrested the importer and not a mere purchaser from open market with a receipt of purchase Exhibit NCS D.
“How can a fowl leave to attack who killed it to pursue who is de-feathering it? This is an Annang-African Idiom that means the Appellant ought not to shut its eyes away from the importer and be chasing petty traders and consumers who buy from the open market. After all prohibited or contraband goods always pass through the borders which are the beats of the Appellant.”
Consequently, the court dismissed the appeal in favour of the respondents.
The court further ordered customs to return all the goods seized from the businessman in 2019 or pay him the money equivalent.
“Consequently, the Appellant is hereby ordered to release or cause the release of the 613 bags of foreign rice, 80 bags of millet, Exhibit “C” and DAF truck with Registration Number: 57 BS 45 impounded and confiscated from the Respondent on 14th June, 2019 to the said Respondent Suleiman Mohammed or his representative forthwith,” the judge ruled.
“Where it has become difficult or impossible to return the items aforesaid, the Appellant shall pay to the Respondent a sum of money equivalent to the current price or cost of the items aforementioned.”
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has called for the suspension of the tax bill currently before the National Assembly, emphasizing the need for more inclusive consultations with Nigerian workers.
In a statement issued on Thursday in Abuja, NLC President, Joe Ajaero, alongside General Secretary, Emmanuel Ugboaja, highlighted the deepening crisis during the National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held in Owerri.
The union criticized the politicization of the bill, stating that it failed to account for the concerns of essential stakeholders, diminishing its potential to effectively boost the economy.
“Only through inclusive dialogue can we ensure a just and equitable tax system that benefits all citizens,” Ajaero said.
The union also urged the Federal Government to urgently address the ongoing cash scarcity that has plagued the country, urging swift action to alleviate the economic burden on citizens.
Ajaero expressed the NEC’s deep concern over the persistent scarcity, which he described as an “exploitative burden” on the already struggling population.
He noted that Nigerians are losing up to five percent of their funds every time they withdraw cash, an unsustainable situation that worsens the financial struggles of millions.
The NLC president called for immediate intervention from the government and urged the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to take effective steps to ensure the availability of cash for everyday transactions, particularly to support small businesses and stimulate economic activity.
“The impact of this on small businesses and other informal economy operatives is huge, as the situation poses serious disproportionate challenges to the poor and struggling workers and masses.
“The NLC demands immediate government intervention to rectify this systemic failure and protect citizens’ financial rights.
“We expect the Central Bank Governor to take steps to ensure that cash is made available to the citizenry to enable small business transactions and stimulate economic growth,” he said.
The NEC also voiced grave concerns about the rising insecurity in Nigeria, citing troubling reports that Nigerians paid over N2.23 trillion in ransom this year alone due to the increasing frequency of crime incidents.
Ajaero stressed the need for urgent government action to restore security, protect citizens, and ensure that the rule of law prevails.
“This appalling state of insecurity underscores the urgent need for the government to take decisive action to safeguard lives and property, restore public confidence, and ensure the rule of law prevails.
“The majority of the citizens who either lost their lives or are maimed as a result are workers,” he said.
Furthermore, the NLC condemned the recent invasion of the NLC Edo State Council Secretariat by police and the state governor.
Ajaero described the invasion as a flagrant violation of workers’ rights, including the unlawful removal of items and an attempt to impose an illegitimate leadership.
The NEC has given the Edo State government and the police a deadline of 14 working days, until January 8, 2025, to vacate the premises, return all confiscated items, and halt any further interference in union activities.
“This brazen act of impunity included the ransacking of properties and the unlawful removal of items, all in a bid to impose an illegitimate leadership on the workers.
“The NEC, therefore, resolved to give the Edo State government and the police a deadline of 14 working days, up to January 8, 2025, to vacate the secretariat.
“They should return all confiscated properties to Congress and commit to refraining from further interference in trade union activities,” he said.
Ajaero warned that failure to comply would lead to significant actions by the NLC to defend the rights of workers.
“The NEC, therefore, reaffirms its unwavering commitment to defending the rights and welfare of workers and the broader Nigerian populace,” Ajaero said.
He concluded by encouraging Nigerians to remain hopeful and united during the festive season, despite the numerous challenges facing the country.
Oil marketers lifting Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, from the Dangote Petroleum Refinery have reduced the price of the product by 11.8%, bringing it down from ₦1,060 to ₦939.50 per litre.
As of yesterday, petrol was still being sold at ₦1,060 per litre, as observed in Lagos and its surrounding areas.
However, fresh checks today by Vanguard revealed that major marketers, including MRS, have now revised their pump prices to reflect the change.
While Alhaji Sayyu Idris Dantata, Chairman of MRS, declined to comment on the matter, a visit to the company’s filling station in Ojota, Lagos, confirmed that MRS has begun selling petrol at ₦939.50 per litre.
In a related development, the Dangote Petroleum Refinery reduced the ex-pump price of its petrol from ₦970 to ₦899.50 per litre.
This move is aimed at easing the financial strain on Nigerians, especially as the holiday season approaches.
Commenting on the price reduction, Anthony Chiejina, Chief Branding and Communications Officer of Dangote Group, said, “To alleviate transport costs during this holiday season, Dangote Refinery is offering a holiday discount on PMS. From today, our petrol will be available at ₦899.50 per litre at our truck loading gantry or SPM.
‘‘Furthermore, for every litre purchased on a cash basis, consumers will have the opportunity to buy another litre on credit, backed by a bank guarantee from Access Bank, First Bank, or Zenith Bank.”
[STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE] President Tinubu Expresses Deep Anguish Over Ibadan FunFair Tragedy And Demands Thorough Investigation
Admin![[STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE] President Tinubu Expresses Deep Anguish Over Ibadan FunFair Tragedy And Demands Thorough Investigation](/media/k2/items/cache/3152a41c8cb3e5ac42f7a48e831e2817_S.jpg)
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed profound sadness over the tragic incident at the Children's FunFair in Ibadan, which resulted in the loss of innocent lives and left many injured.
The President extends his heartfelt condolences to the Government and people of Oyo State, as well as to the grieving families who have lost their beloved children.
In this moment of mourning, President Tinubu stands in solidarity with the affected families and offers prayers that the Almighty God will grant peace to the souls of those who have departed in this unfortunate event.
President Tinubu has urgently directed the relevant authorities to investigate the circumstances of this tragedy thoroughly. He emphasises that it is imperative to determine whether negligence or deliberate actions contributed to this painful incident, ensuring a transparent and accountable process.
The President urges the Oyo State Government to take every necessary measure to prevent such a tragedy from reoccurring. Among the essential actions are a comprehensive review of all public events' safety measures, strict enforcement of safety regulations, and regular safety audits of event venues.
Furthermore, President Tinubu calls on event organisers to prioritise the safety of all attendees, especially children. He stresses the importance of integrating professional security, protocol, and logistics at events to ensure the utmost safety of all participants.
"Our children's safety and well-being remain paramount. No event should ever compromise their safety or take precedence over their lives," President Tinubu asserts.
Bayo Onanuga
Special Adviser to the President
(Information & Strategy)
The Nigerian Army Council has approved the promotion of 108 senior officers to the Major-General and Brigadier-General ranks.
According to a statement on Friday by the Director of Army Public Relations, Maj-Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu, the list includes 35 Brigadier Generals elevated to Major-Generals and 73 Colonels promoted to Brigadier-Generals.
Among the newly promoted Major-Generals are officers holding critical command and staff positions.
Notable names include the acting General Officer Commanding 8 Division and Commander, Sector 2, North West Operation Fasan Yamma, Brig-Gen. Ibikunle Ajose; the Commander, Nigerian Army Space Command, Brig-Gen. U.G. Ogeleka; among others.
Officers promoted to the Major-General rank include the Deputy Chief of Military Affairs, Army Headquarters, Department of Civil-Military Affairs, Brig-Gen. B.P. Koughna; Brig-Gen. I. Otu from the Nigerian Army Heritage and Future Centre; Brig-Gen. A.O. Adegbite from the Headquarters, Nigerian Army Corps of Supply and Transport; and the Deputy Director, Tender Board, Department of Procurement, Brig-Gen. S.A. Jimoh.
For the rank of the Brigadier-General, notable promotions include the Commander, 43 Engineers Brigade, Col. S.M. Iliya; the Commander, 78 Supply and Transport, Col. O. Igwe; the Chief Medical Director, 44 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital, Col. N.S. Onuchukwu; among others.
The Chief of Army Staff, Lt-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede urged the newly promoted officers to redouble their efforts, justify their elevation and lead by example.
He encouraged them to develop innovative solutions to tackle the nation’s contemporary security challenges.
“Oluyede also reminded them of their oath of allegiance to defend the nation and their duty to maintain unalloyed loyalty to the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” the statement added.
[Punch]
![[STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE] President Tinubu Rejoices With Prof. Olaopa As He Clocks 65](/media/k2/items/cache/53e24c81e2171e2afe535639acea3d9b_S.jpg)
President Bola Tinubu congratulates political scientist, public administrator and Federal Civil Service Commission Chairman Prof. Tunji Olaopa as he clocks the milestone 65 years today, Friday, December 20, 2024.
A reputable intellectual and advocate of public service reforms and institutional strengthening, Olaopa rose to the zenith of his civil service career. Before retiring, he served as Permanent Secretary in various ministries to establish the Ibadan School of Government and Public Policy. He later lectured at the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies in Kuru, near Jos.
President Tinubu commends Prof. Olaopa for his contributions to nation-building through his engagement in public service and interventions and his numerous books and writings, which have helped shape public policy.
The President charges Prof. Olaopa with instituting reforms that adequately position the service as the bedrock of purposeful administration and governance.
President Tinubu extends his warmest wishes to the esteemed professor, hoping for many years of good health and meritorious service to the country.
Bayo Onanuga,
Special Adviser to the President
(Information & Strategy)
More...
The Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja on Thursday granted the immediate past Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, bail in the sum of N500 million and three sureties.
The trial judge, Justice MaryAnne Anenih, made the pronouncement after listening to the fresh bail application brought before the court following the court’s refusal to grant Bello bail at the last sitting.
Bello, alongside two others, Umar Oricha and Abdulsalami Hudu, are facing trial on 16 counts preferred against them by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission bordering on criminal breach of trust and money laundering to the tune of N110.4 billion.
The court, however, granted the second and third defendants, bail in the sum of N300m with two sureties alongside other conditions.
Further reading out the conditions for Bello’s bail, the judge held that the sureties must be responsible citizens who are landowners in any of the listed areas in Abuja – Maitama, Guzape, Apo, Wuse 2 or Asokoro.
She ordered that the sureties must deposit the documents of the property with the court’s registrar alongside two recent passport photographs.
Justice Anenih also ordered that Bello must deposit two copies of his recent passport photograph alongside a photocopy of a means of identification which could be either an International Passport or National Identity card after showing the original to the court’s registrar.
She held, “The first defendant must not travel without the permission of this court and he shall remain in the Kuje Correctional Facility until the bail conditions are met.”
Recall that on December 10, the court had rejected Bello’s bail request citing procedural irregularities in the filing of the application.
Justice Anenih, while delivering the ruling, stated that the application was premature and filed before Bello was present in court or custody.
The court noted that the bail application, dated November 22, 2024, was filed before Bello’s arraignment, which took place on November 27, 2024; days after he was taken into custody on November 26, 2024.
She said, “Having not been filed when the first defendant was either in custody or before the court, this instant application is incompetent.
“Consequently, the application, having been filed prematurely, is hereby refused.”
At the resumed sitting on Thursday, the defendant’s counsel, J.B Daudu, said, “My Lord, the matter is for hearing of bail application for the first defendant.”
Daudu, further told the court that he had been in discussions with the lead prosecution counsel and they had agreed to ensure a speedy trial.
While he urged the court to grant the first defendant’s bail application, he requested that the court graciously review the bail conditions for the 1st to 3rd defendants.
He urged the court to spread out the conditions for the sureties and not limit the property to only the Maitama area of the FCT. He said it is difficult for property owners in Maitama to volunteer their C of O’s being that the properties are mostly commercial for businesses.
He said, “We urge your lordship to grant the application. Now if my lordship is minded to grant bail we ask for the terms granted to be what the defendant can meet.
“I’m asking if the net can be spread out to other high-brow areas like Apo, Wuse 2, Asokoro, Garki and other areas within the FCT area.”
The prosecution counsel, Olukayode Enitan, confirmed that the defendant’s counsel had been in talks with the prosecution team, saying, “I confirm the evidence given by the distinguished member of the bar that is leading the defence, J.B. Daudu (SAN), that he has been in conversation with the leader of the prosecuting team.
“As with the legal tradition that we should cooperate with members of the bar when it does not affect the course of justice, we have decided not to make this contentious, bearing in mind that no matter how industrious the defence counsel might be in pushing forward the application for bail and no matter how vociferous the prosecution counsel can argue against the bail application, your lordship is bound by your discretion to grant or not to grant the application. We are, therefore, leaving this to your lordship’s discretion.”
After listening to both counsel, Justice Anenih stated that the offence brought against the former governor is a bailable one, saying, “The offence on which the first defendant is charged are ordinarily bailable. After due consideration, the bail application for the first defendant succeeds and the bail application is hereby granted in the sum of N500 million.”
She also proceeded to spread out the bail conditions for the second and third defendants, stating that the two sureties should be landowners in like sum in any of the following areas in Abuja: Wuse 2, Garki, Maitama, Asokoro, Gwarimpa or Guzape.
As fixed in the last proceeding, The adjourned date remains January 29 and 30, 2025, for hearing.
The 10th Senate led by Godswill Akpabio, on Thursday, passed the N49.7tn 2025 Budget for a second reading.
The budget was passed during plenary after various deliberations on the budget which was presented yesterday by President Bola Tinubu.
The budget was later referred to the Committee on Appropriations after being put to a voice vote by Akpabio, who presided over the session.
The Committee on Appropriations is chaired by Senator Solomon Adeola.
Tinubu, on Wednesday had presented the 2025 Budget of Restoration to a joint session of the National Assembly, targeting peace and prosperity with a revenue projection of ₦34.82tn to fund the aggregate expenditure of ₦47.9tn.
In the proposed budget, which has a deficit of ₦13.0tn, Tinubu earmarked ₦4.91tn for Defence and Security, ₦4.06tn for Infrastructure, ₦3.5tn for Education, and ₦2.48tn for Health.
The President, in his budget speech, also disclosed that ₦15.81tn is allocated for debt servicing, with salient parameters including 2.06 million barrels of oil production per day, an exchange rate of ₦1,500 to a US dollar, and an inflation rate of 15%, down from the current 34.6%.
He said, “The numbers for our 2025 budget proposal tell a bold and exciting story of the direction we are taking to retool and revamp the socio-economic fabric of our society.
“In 2025, we are targeting ₦34.82tn in revenue to fund the budget.
“Government expenditure in the same year is projected to be ₦47.90tn, including ₦15.81tn for debt servicing.
“A total of ₦13.08tn, or 3.89 per cent of GDP, will make up the budget deficit.
“This is an ambitious but necessary budget to secure our future.
“The Budget projects inflation will decline from the current rate of 34.6 per cent to 15 per cent next year, while the exchange rate will improve from approximately 1,700 naira per US dollar to 1,500 naira and a base crude oil production assumption of 2.06 million barrels per day (mbpd).
“These projections are based on the following observations: (i) Reduced importation of petroleum products alongside increased export of finished petroleum products, (ii) Bumper harvests, driven by enhanced security, reducing reliance on food imports, (iii) Increased foreign exchange inflows through Foreign Portfolio Investments, and (iv) Higher crude oil output and exports, coupled with a substantial reduction in upstream oil and gas production costs.”
Tinubu informed federal lawmakers that a series of economic reforms being carried out by his government are yielding positive results, saying, “Our economy grew by 3.46 per cent in the third quarter of 2024, up from 2.54 per cent in the third quarter of 2023.
“Our Foreign Reserves now stand at nearly 42 billion US dollars, providing a robust buffer against external shocks.”
The Police Service Commission (PSC) has recently announced the promotion of 8,053 senior police officers to various higher ranks within the force.
According to a statement issued on Wednesday by the PSC’s spokesperson, Ikechukwu Ani, the promotion involved 1,348 Superintendents of Police who were elevated to the rank of Chief Superintendent.
Additionally, 876 Deputy Superintendents of Police were promoted to the rank of Superintendent, while 5,829 Assistant Superintendents were moved up to Deputy Superintendents.
These promotions followed the recommendations of the PSC’s standing committee on police promotions, which is chaired by Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Taiwo Lakanu.
The statement reads, “The promoted Officers included: Anjuguri Manzah, DCO, Onne Port Division; Ihunwo Josephine, Zonal Public Relations Officer Zone 13 Ukpo; Matilda Umiah Ngbaronye former Public Information officer, African Union Mission in Somalia, former Deputy PPRO, Lagos state Command, former DPO Ilupeju and currently DPO Iponri; Opara Angela Precious, IGP Secretariat, Force Headquarters, Abuja; Ajaka Chinedu, Admin Officer, 44 PMF; Felix Ekpoudom, O/C Quick Intervention Unit, Akwa Ibom State and former DPO, Eket; Ehinola Temitope Layomi, 2 PMF, Lagos; Okebugwu Eggbath Chidozie DPO, Abakaliki Road, and Okereke Joy Onyedikachu, O/C Servicom, Enugu State Command.
“Others include:Aminu Mohammed Abdulkadir; Danladi Ameh Musa; Alhasan Yahaya, Adamu Muye Jesyca Gobum, Police Adviser to the United Nations; Mohammed Yusuf Adamu, 2/ic Base 3 SPU; Martin William, O/C Provost SPU; Ephraim Aneto, DLS , Zone 9 Umuahia; Isa Ibrahim Umuoru, Boarder Patrol; Ejiro Aganbi Daniel, Commander EOD, Rivers State; David Samuel, Commander CTU Lafia and Ogu Caleb Ikechukwu FCT Command.
“Omoarebun Iluobe, CSO, to Delta State Governor; Shaaba Gboyako Adamu, CSO to Imo state Governor; Ochogwu Sunday Okpe, DPO Otolo Nnewi; Iheme Chijioke Jerry, Nimo Division, Anambra state, Ani Gospel Obichi, Zonal Intelligence Dept Zone 7 Abuja; Harrison Owoh, Abia Command; Iheanetu Bruno Chukwudara, Zonal PRO, Zone 9; Kontongs Bello O/c Edo South special Operations; Lawal Opeyemi, National Cybercrime; Mgbamijolo Akpobeme Augustina, Special Anti Cultism, Enugu Ukwu; Gerald Udechukwu, IGP Task Force on Petroleum; Adamu Adamu Sulieman, 40 PMF;
“Eliagwu Austin, Commander FOB, Aguata; Oche George State marine Office, Anambra; Ikechukwu Henry Onyeanula, DPO Ideato, Imo state; Odemerho Festus Ichioma; Adeyemi Olufemi; Abubakar Ibrahim, PMF 50; Sirajo Abdullahi, Zamfara Command; A. Bature, Force Secretary Staff Officer; Nweke Ebele Adaob, Maritime; Jokpeyibo Andy Igho, DPO Neni Anambra state; Ibrahim Ezekiel FID, Garba Musa Mahuta, FCID, Abuja; Suleiman Idris Mohammed, Commander EOD, Base 37, Abia state; Aguade Samuel; Katie Bukola Yemisi, PSO 3 IGP;
“Christian Diala, Project Officer, Works Department, Abuja; Pharmacist Abubakar Abdul Qadir, Kano state command; Omorodion Newton, DCO, Ugbekun Division, Edo State; Ifa-Uwadiae Ebendvbe, DCO Oba Market, Division, Edo State; Salau, Agboola Lateef O/C Surveillance, Boarder Patrol Seme, Lagos and Haruna Usman Chiri of Interpol; Ofoegbu Uche Ralph, Deputy Contigent Commander, NFPU Peace Keeping Somalia were also some of the Superintendents promoted to Chief Superintendents of Police.”
In a bid to provide relief for Nigerians ahead of the holiday season, Dangote Petroleum Refinery has announced a price reduction for its Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) product, lowering it to ₦899.50k per litre.
The announcement was made in a statement released on Thursday morning, highlighting the company’s commitment to easing the financial burden on citizens during the festive period.
The statement signed by the Group’s Chief Branding and Communications Officer, Anthony Chiejina, reads, “Africa’s first privately-owned oil refinery, which previously lowered the price to ₦970 per litre on November 24, has now announced a new price of ₦899.50 per litre. “
He added that the company also introduced a special offer to further benefit consumers.
Chiejina said, “In addition to the holiday discount, Dangote Petroleum Refinery is allowing consumers to purchase an additional litre of fuel on credit for every litre bought on a cash basis.
“To alleviate transport costs during this holiday season, Dangote Refinery is offering a holiday discount on PMS. From today, our petrol will be available at ₦899.50 per litre at our truck loading gantry or SPM. Furthermore, for every litre purchased on a cash basis, consumers will have the opportunity to buy another litre on credit, backed by a bank guarantee from Access Bank, First Bank, or Zenith Bank.”
The refinery also expressed its gratitude to Nigerians for their continued support as the country enters the festive season.
Chiejina further emphasised the refinery’s commitment to ensuring Nigerians have access to premium quality petroleum products that are competitively priced, as well as environmentally and engine friendly.
He highlighted that the refinery’s operations mark the end of Nigeria being a dumping ground for substandard and ‘blended’ imported products, which have posed significant risks to human health, machinery, and the environment.
The Dangote Refinery, with a capacity of 650,000 barrels per day (BPD), is the largest single-train refinery in the world. It is fully capable of meeting 100% of Nigeria’s refined petroleum product requirements, with a surplus available for export.