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The Nigerian Communications Commission has appealed to states and local government councils across the country to cut taxes imposed on telecom companies, asserting that excessive taxation will be counterproductive to the growth of the industry.
The Federal Government in its 2024-2026 Medium-Term Expenditure Framework and Fiscal Strategy Paper said it would implement a five per cent excise duty on telecommunication services to boost its revenue base.
The NCC Executive Vice Chairman, Aminu Wada Maida, lamented that with between 50 to 55 per cent taxes already imposed on telecom operators, it would be difficult to attract foreign investments into the sector in line with President Bola Tinubu’s directive to the NCC.
According to Maida, the NCC management has decided to embark on nationwide advocacy to appeal to states and local governments as well as other stakeholders on the need to reduce levies they impose on the operators, especially the Right of Way charges and other multiple taxes.
Maida made the remarks on Tuesday at the Digital Economy Complex, Mbora, Abuja, during an interactive session with journalists in Abuja.
He said, “We are going to be going on an advocacy campaign to see how we can convince the states to remove some of these obstacles like Right of Way and multiple taxations because I have seen some studies which indicate taxation is almost 50% getting to 55% in some areas in this country.
“And you would agree with me that if we are trying to bring in foreign investment that is not a good picture to paint,” the NCC boss said.
He appealed to states to consider the long-term benefits that would come to them if they allowed massive investments in the sector as job opportunities would be created alongside other value chains in the sector.
He also disclosed that the dispute between the two telecom giants, MTN Nigeria and Globacom Network would be resolved amicably soon as the commission was more interested in a level-playing field for all stakeholders.
He said the commission had developed a strategic vision based on five pillars to drive the telecom industry and ensure that it continued to contribute to the Gross Domestic Product of the country as expected.
The EVC acknowledged the challenges associated with the quality of services from Mobile Network Operators and Internet Services Providers, saying the commission would adopt “a total consumer experience” to address the challenges.
He also advised consumers complaining about data depletion to look inward as most of the problems had to do with the types of handsets they are using coupled with the services available and the digital services they enjoyed without considering cost implications.
Wada said, “Our approach will thus be to walk towards the expectations of these stakeholders, and everything for me starts with the consumer and the expectation of the consumer is very simple – quality of service.
“I don’t think you can say anything more than that. Quality of service and this quality of service, we are talking about a total consumer experience not just about drop calls or I can’t make a call.”
He added, “There is a total quality of experience right from how do you find and select the right network to use, how do you onboard onto that network talking about SIM registration process, process of linking your SIM to your NIN and of course after you have gone through all of that when you are using it, how easy is it for you to select a tariff, how transparent is the tariff, how are you supported by the entire host, how do you onboard from the network, these are important.”
In a heartwarming display of generosity, the Worship for Change Foundation, a non-profitorganisation, has donated a total sum of ₦33 million to four schools dedicated to caring for children with disabilities.
The donation, presented on February 6th, 2024 at a ceremony in Lagos, aims to empower these institutions and provide much-needed support to the underprivileges.
Each of the four beneficiary schools – Joy in Africa Foundation (Asaba), Let Cerebral Palsy Kids Learn Foundation (Lagos), Seedo Initiative for Children with Special Needs (Abuja), and To Omo Re Centre for Special Empowerment (Ilorin) – received ₦8.25 million each.
The funds were raised through the Green Worship Benefit concert, a star-studded event held on October 2nd, 2023, featuring renowned Nigerian gospel artists Nathaniel Bassey, Tope Alabi, Cobhams Asuquo, and Waje.
Worship for Change has so far been able to raise over N120m for 38 charities caring for thousands of orphans and children with special needs in Nigeria.
Wale Adenuga, Chief Responsibility Officer of Worship for Change and a gospel artist, emphasised the organisation's unwavering commitment to supporting vulnerable children.
"Since 2004, I've been driven to use my platform to help indigent children, especially children with special needs," he shared. "As we know, the special children's needs are barely cared for and catered for in our present-day society. These children are special, and God cares deeply for them."
Adenuga while using the opportunity to appreciate the individuals and corporate donors from Nigeria and all over the world for their contribution towards the success of the initiative, while thanking the planning team for their commitment to seeing that life is better for special children across Nigeria.
Emphasising transparency and accountability, Mr Adenuga assured the stakeholders of continued monitoring to ensure the funds are utilised effectively. "We will follow up closely to verify that the money is used as intended, addressing the specific needs outlined by each school," he stated.
The donation ceremony resonated with raw emotions from the founders of the benefiting schools.
Mrs Kawan Aondofa-Anjira, the founder of the Seedo Initiative, tearfully recounted the heartbreaking experiences of raising her first two children with cerebral palsy, highlighting the societal stigma and discrimination they faced.
"They were considered 'spirits', 'undeserving of life'," she lamented, recalling the cruel suggestions she received from supposed Christians. "Fueled by this experience, my husband and I established a haven for mothers in similar situations, offering therapy and support for their children.", she says
Tobiloba Ajayi, founder of Let Cerebral Palsy Kids Learn Foundation and herself living with the condition, echoed Mrs. Aondofa-Anjira's sentiment.
"My parents were told to abandon me as they already had 'normal' children," she shared. "Growing up, I realised society deemed children like me unworthy, even denying them education despite our parents' efforts."
The heartfelt testimonies resonated deeply with the audience, underscoring these schools' critical role in nurturing and empowering children with special needs. Rev. Samuel Abiodun Ajayi, a beneficiary representing To Omo Re Centre, expressed immense gratitude for the timely support. "This donation is a godsend," he exclaimed. "We were facing numerous challenges, and this will make a significant difference."
Worship For Change 1: l-r: Trustee, Worship for Change Foundation, Gboyega Aboderin; Founder, Joy in Africa Foundation, Asaba, Joy Okonjor; Her Husband, Henry Okonjor, Founder, To Omo Re Centre for Special Empowerment, Sam Ajayi; Chief Responsibility Officer, The Let Cerebral Palsy Kids Learn Foundation, Tobiloba Ajayi; Founder and Chief Responsibility Officer, Worship for Change, Wale Adenuga; and President, The Seedoo Initiative for Children with Special Needs, Kawan Aondofa-Anjira; during the presentation of cheques totaling N33m to 4 Foundations catering for special needs by Worship for Change Foundation in Lagos on Tuesday.
Worship for Change 2: l-r: Founder, Joy in Africa Foundation, Asaba, Joy Okonjor; Founder, To Omo Re Centre for Special Empowerment, Sam Ajayi; President, The Seedoo Initiative for Children with Special Needs, Kawan Aondofa-Anjira; Founder and Chief Responsibility Officer, Worship for Change, Wale Adenuga; and Chief Responsibility Officer, The Let Cerebral Palsy Kids Learn Foundation, Tobiloba Ajayi; during the presentation of cheques totaling N33m to 4 Foundations catering for special needs by Worship for Change Foundation in Lagos on Tuesday.
Worship for Change 3: l-r: Founder, Joy in Africa Foundation, Asaba, Joy Okonjor; Founder, To Omo Re Centre for Special Empowerment, Sam Ajayi; Chief Responsibility Officer, The Let Cerebral Palsy Kids Learn Foundation, Tobiloba Ajayi; Founder and Chief Responsibility Officer, Worship for Change, Wale Adenuga; and President, The Seedoo Initiative for Children with Special Needs, Kawan Aondofa-Anjira; during the presentation of cheques totaling N33m to 4 Foundations catering for special needs by Worship for Change Foundation in Lagos on Tuesday.
The Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, Olayemi Cardoso has attributed the recent increase in the dollar exchange rate to the rise in Nigerian students who study abroad, as well foreign medical trips embarked on by Nigerians.
Cardoso spoke at the sectoral debate put together by the House of Representatives on Tuesday in Abuja.
The apex bank’s boss said the high cost of living remains a concern, adding that the CBN was working to bring lasting solutions, and bring down the inflation to 21.4 per cent through improved agricultural productivity.
“Volume on transactions on our market was over 800 million dollars. The cost of living remains a concern. The urgency of the matter is not lost on us. We are working to bring lasting solutions. CBN worked at bringing down Inflation to 21.4 percent aided by improved agricultural productivity.
“To address exchange rate volatility we will improve liquidity. These come with economic costs, which are temporary.
“There’s increasing demand for dollars with an increase in Nigerian students studying abroad, projected to have exceeded 100,000 by 2022. Given this data, 28.6bn dollars, education and medical tourism are also leading to increasing demand for dollars,” he added.
Super Eagles forward and Napoli hitman, Victor Osimhen has been declared fit to feature in the crucial semi final match against arch rivals, Bafana Bafana of South Africa on Wednesday.
News coming from the Super Eagles camp suggested that Osimhen is currently on his way to Bouake to meet up with the team after being cleared by the Team Doctors.
The Nigeria Super Eagles are scheduled to meet the Bafana Bafana of South Africa on Wednesday in Bouake, 6pm Nigerian time.
Meanwhile, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has appointed Egyptian referee Amin Omar for Wednesday’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) semi-final encounter between Nigeria’s Super Eagles and Bafana Bafana of South Africa.
Ademola Olajire, Director of Communications at the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), stated this in a statement on Tuesday in Abuja.
He said Omar’s compatriots, Mahmoud Abouelregal and Ahmed Ibrahim, would play the roles of assistant referee 1 and assistant referee 2, while Sudanese Mahmood Ismail would serve as the fourth official.
Olajire said that Attia Amsaaed from Libya will be the reserve assistant referee, with Yacoub Elmi from Djibouti as commissioner and Aboubacar Doumbouya from Guinea as referee assessor.
“Three-time champions Nigeria and 1996 champions South Africa face off in their second-ever Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) semi-final clash at the Stade de la Paix.
“Their only previous meeting at the same stage, at the National Stadium in Lagos, when Nigeria co-hosted the 2000 finals with Ghana, ended 2-0 in favour of Nigeria.
“Wednesday’s clash is being billed as the more potentially explosive of the two semi-finals; hosts Cote d’Ivoire will be up against the Democratic Republic of Congo, given the pedigree, rivalry, and ambition of the two teams,” he said.
The Presidential candidate of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at the 2023 presidential election, Atiku Abubakar says that the Presidency has failed to present a convincing justification for what he described as President Bola Tinubu’s failure to address Nigeria’s economic difficulties.
Naija News reports that the former vice-president, who was responding to Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, who accused him of carving out a position as the “opposition-in-chief” to the President and the current government, said that the presidential aide showed a lack of awareness of the events going on around him.
Onanuga had claimed that Atiku took on the new position after failing to realize his lifelong aim of controlling Nigeria.
However, the former vice-president argued that throughout the 2023 presidential campaign, he gave better policy options than Tinubu’s “morbid prescriptions.”
A statement by Atiku’s spokesperson Paul Ibe read, “The Presidential Spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, failed to provide a credible defence of Bola Tinubu’s failures in tackling the economic challenges facing the country.
“In his characteristic manner, he resorts to insults and name-calling. He demonstrates ignorance of the happenings around him – as he denies, for example, that Bola Tinubu’s policies are creating excruciating pain and causing despair. We wish to respond to him as follows.
“Point 1: Did Atiku Abubakar offer any better policy options in his run for the presidency?
“Yes, he did. His living prescriptions contrast sharply with Bola Tinubu’s morbid policies. Atiku’s policy document, My Covenant With Nigerians, offers a clearly defined and robust roadmap for the socio-political and economic transformation of Nigeria. On the economy, the policy document outlines the challenges we face and our vision to get the economy on its feet and create prosperity. If Bayo desires, he can have a copy for free!
“Point 2: That all the major presidential candidates supported the withdrawal of subsidy on PMS.
“But so, what? Even if all the major candidates agreed that the fuel subsidy regime must end and that the multiple exchange rates must be fixed, this would not translate into endorsing Bola Tinubu’s failures in implementation. The truth is that unlike Atiku, Bola Tinubu did not understand the reforms he embarked upon and had no idea what steps to take to mitigate their negative impact.
“As a leader with foresight, Atiku anticipated that the withdrawal of subsidy and the unification of exchange rates could, in the absence of fundamental interventions, impact negatively on micro and small enterprises in the informal sector. He anticipated that such policies could elevate the levels of vulnerability and deprivation of poor families. including the youth and adults with no income.
“The former Vice President, therefore, pledged to support Nigeria’s businesses by creating an Economic Stimulus Fund with an initial investment capacity of approximately US$10 billion to prioritize support to MSMEs across all the economic sectors, as they offer the greatest opportunities for achieving inclusive growth. The Fund was designed to make it easier for Nigeria’s 60 million micro and small enterprises to navigate the stormy seas in the aftermath of the withdrawal of subsidy on PMS.
“In contrast, Bola Tinubu offered a paltry N125 billion to help the MSMEs, which at today’s exchange rate is no more than US100 million. Of course, Bayo Onanuga is aware that the pledge is yet to be redeemed by the president.
“Atiku also pledged to implement a robust social investment programme to support the poor and vulnerable with CCTs. Atiku’s support to the poor and vulnerable would include prioritized actions to address the challenges of displacement and the sufferings of IDPs across the country.
“In contrast, the funds for Tinubu’s CCT were cornered by his officials in the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs.
“Alongside the Economic Stimulus Fund, Atiku pledged to launch a uniquely designed skills-to-job programme that would target all categories of youth, including graduates, early school leavers as well as the massive numbers of uneducated youth who are currently not in education, employment, or training.
“As a leader of vision, Atiku was ready for the potential fallout of his policies. Bola Tinubu was clearly not ready. It was only after he unleashed his morbid reforms that he started groping in the dark, looking for solutions. We all recall that in October 2023, the Financial Times of London rebuked Bola Tinubu for announcing plans without ideas for how to implement them.
“Point 3: Is the private sector not overburdened by Bola Tinubu’s failure to address the aftermath of his policies?
“Would Bayo Onanuga deny that Unilever, GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), Procter & Gamble (P&G), Sanofi-Aventi Nigeria, Bolt Food, Equinor etc had exited Nigeria citing reasons including foreign exchange complexities, security concerns, and high operational costs? Bayo Onanuga must be living in a dream world outside the shores of Nigeria.
“Point 4: Is Bayo denying that cost-of-living pressures have intensified since May 2023?
“He needs to read the official statistics from the National Bureau of Statistics: The annual inflation rate reached a nearly 30-year high of 28.9% in December 2023, up from 28.2% in November.
“Would Bayo Onanuga deny that food prices, which constitute a significant portion of the Consumer Price Index (CPI) basket, soared to 33.9% in December, the highest level since August 2005? Would he also deny that in many states of the federation, citizens have blocked roads in protest? Just yesterday morning (Monday, February 5), it was reported that hundreds of residents of Minna in Niger State blocked major roads to protest hunger and the high cost of living in the country. Only failed leaders play the ostrich and live in self-denial.
“Point 5: The Presidency’s response is full of lamentations and resorts to blame game. It is a familiar road travelled by the ruling party!
“It has become fashionable for every APC-led government to blame others, especially the opposition and external factors for Nigeria’s economic woes. Now, Tinubu is elevating the blame game to the NEXT LEVEL as he accuses his own party of lacklustre performance.
“The evidence, however, is overwhelming. Tinubu’s under-performance is largely attributable to leadership failures in the management of the economy. The failure of leadership by the APC-led government is staring every Nigerian in the face as the country’s economic, social, political, and security challenges persist and assume frightening dimensions. An unprepared leadership such as Bola Tinubu’s fails to anticipate impending crisis and is always slow to react.”
Canada remains one of the top choices for international students seeking higher education opportunities.
However, prospective students should take note of some new regulations for the 2024 student visa.
The Canadian government has introduced updates to the study permit, and if you are considering studying in Canada, it’s essential to stay informed about these changes.
The updated regulations also impact the criteria for obtaining the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).
Below are some of the new 2024 rules for international students intending to study in Canada:
1. Updated cost-of-living requirements for students: From January 1, 2024, international students must demonstrate they have at least $20,635 (previously $10,000) to cover living expenses (requirements differ for students relocating to Quebec).
2. Changes to Spousal Open Work Permit eligibility: Only spouses of international students enrolled in master’s, doctoral, and professional programs will qualify for open work permits.
3. Longer PGWPs for master’s graduates: Soon, students completing master’s programs in Canada will be eligible for three-year PGWPs.
4. Changes to Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligibility criteria: Beginning September 1, 2024, foreign students commencing study programs in private colleges delivering licensed curriculum will not qualify for PGWPs.
5. Temporary federal cap on international student intake: Anticipated to decrease by 35% from 2023, the number of study permits approved in 2024 is expected to be 360,000. The cap for 2025 will be determined by the end of 2024.
In 2024, around 360,000 new study permits are anticipated to be granted to international students, marking a 35 percent decline from 2023. The cap for 2025 will be established by year-end.
Each province and territory will also impose a cap on the enrollment of new international students in undergraduate programs.
Provinces experiencing the most unsustainable growth in international student numbers will face more significant reductions in their study permit allocations. For instance, Ontario is expected to undergo a 50 percent reduction in study permit approvals.
Reasons for Canada Enforcing International Student Cap
In the past decade, there has been a significant increase in the number of study permits issued by the Canadian government.
Unfortunately, the infrastructure necessary to accommodate this surge of international students has not kept pace, leading to strain on housing and healthcare systems.
Furthermore, certain private institutions have been admitting more international students primarily to boost revenue, often neglecting to enhance admission and curriculum standards.
The introduction of the new study permit cap aims to provide the Canadian government with time to establish a Trusted Institutions Framework.
This framework will encourage Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) to maintain high educational standards and weed out subpar practices in the education sector.
Implementing such measures will ensure that international students arriving in Canada receive the necessary support to excel academically and in other facets of life.
How does the international student cap impact study permit applicants?
If you are an international student, you might worry about how this new cap could impact your ability to qualify for a Canadian study permit.
The international student cap is anticipated to impact study permit applicants in several ways:
1. Increased competition: With fewer study permits being approved, admission into Canadian Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) is expected to become more competitive. Applicants may face heightened competition for available slots.
2. Impact on undergraduate programs: Applicants enrolling in undergraduate programs, such as bachelor’s degrees, diplomas, or certificates, may find it more challenging to qualify for a study permit due to the reduced number of permits issued.
3. Unaffected master’s and doctoral programs: Applicants applying to master’s or doctoral programs in Canada may see minimal impact on their chances of obtaining a study permit. These programs may remain relatively unaffected by the cap.
4. Greater competition in specific provinces: Provinces like Ontario, British Columbia, and Nova Scotia are expected to experience more significant reductions in study permit allocations. As a result, students interested in studying in these provinces may face intensified competition for study permits.
Overall, the international student cap is likely to make the process of obtaining study permits more competitive, particularly for undergraduate program applicants and those interested in studying in provinces experiencing sharper cuts in permit allocations.
[NaijaNews]
Amid the rising wave of insecurity in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), some police officers have been arrested for forcefully collecting N29.9m from a resident of Abuja.
The incident, according to Harrison Gwamnishu, a candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 general elections, happened in January.
Gwamnishu had in a video via his X account alleged that the businessman was kidnapped in Abuja by the police officers who detained him until he transferred all the money in his bank account to them.
They thereafter insisted he should call all his relatives and friends to keep sending money before he could be freed.
He also alleged that the man was taken away from his site without any proper complaint against him, adding that he was not asked to write a formal statement by the police officers.
Receipts of the transactions were shared alongside the video.
Quoting the post on Tuesday, the Force Spokesperson, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, while confirming the arrest of some of the culprits, disclosed that the force had made progressive steps towards ensuring justice was served in the case.
“We are making a headway on this matter, and justice will be served, as some suspects have been arrested. Hakuna matata,” he wrote.
The development comes after the Anambra State Police Command declared one of the officers in its command, Inspector Audu Omadefu, wanted over alleged murder.
Ikenga Tochukwu, the command’s public relations officer disclosed this in a press release on Tuesday.
The police spokesperson said the fleeing operative Omadefu can be recognised by his service number AP No. 362178.
According to Tochukwu, the inspector disappeared into thin air following the accusation of murder against him.
The police called upon the public to assist in locating Omadefu, assuring that any information provided will be treated with the highest degree of confidentiality.
[DailyTrust]
Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State has sacked the Vice Chancellor, VC, of Plateau State University, Professor Bernard Matau.
A statement issued by the Secretary to the State Government, SSG, Samuel Jatau, confirmed the development on Tuesday.
Matau became the Vice Chancellor of the state university while serving as the state Commissioner for Higher Education in the last administration led by former Governor Simon Lalong.
The VC, who is yet to complete his tenure, was ousted from office alongside four other heads of tertiary institutions in the state, including the Rector of the Plateau State Polytechnic, Barkin Ladi; Provost, College of Health Technology, Pankshin; Provost, College of Health Technology, Zawan as well as the Provost, College of Education, Gindiri.
Parts of the statement read: “His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Plateau state, Barrister Caleb Mutfwang has approved the dissolution of the Governing Council of the Plateau State University, Bokkos with immediate effect.
“Similarly, the governor has also approved the removal of the following heads of tertiary institutions: Plateau State University, Bokkos; Plateau State Polytechnic, Barkin Ladi; College of Education, Gindiri; College of Health Technology, Zawan and College of Health Technology, Pankshin”.
The statement, which did not provide any reason for the sack of the officials, said all the affected should hand over any government property in their possession to the next most senior officers in the institutions immediately.
“The governor has also approved the cancellation of recruitment earlier conducted by tertiary institutions in 2022 and early 2023 that have been under suspension.
“Consequently, applications for an all-inclusive recruitment for all tertiary institutions would be advertised,” the statement added.
According to the statement, the governor thanked the chairman and members of the Governing Council for the services rendered in the state and wished them success in their future endeavors.
[DailyPost]
Veteran singer and social activist, Charles Oputa, aka Charly Boy, has said that he engaged in scamming before 419 became popular in Nigeria.
Advance fee fraud or “419 fraud”, is a scheme in which a sender requests help facilitating the illegal transfer of money, according to Wikipedia.
The scam typically involves promising the victim a significant share of a large sum of money, in return for a small up-front payment, which the fraudster claims will be used to obtain the large sum.
If a victim makes the payment, the fraudster either invents a series of further fees for the victim to pay or simply disappears.
Speaking in the latest episode of The Honest Bunch Podcast, co-hosted by actor, Chinedu Ani Emmanuel, aka Nedu, Charley Boy said he engaged in scamming banks before 419 became popular.
He also revealed that his dad, the late Justice Chukwudifu Oputa, damaged him through religion.
“I spoil from belle because at 16, I don born. My first son is almost 53. I was scamming banks even before una begin hear of 419, I don do small. My papa, when I dey small he damage me with religion and religiousity,” he said.
Charly Boy had in August 2022 argued that marriage is a lifetime sentence
However, in an interview with Saturday Beats, the ‘Area Fada’ said, “Some people are asking me how I have managed to stay in marriage for 45 years. It is hard work. It is not that it has entirely been a sweet experience for me. My marriage is not perfect but we are a perfect match made in heaven.
“Young people usually believe that love is all they need to marry. That is a big lie. That was what I was trying to say (in my post on social media). When I talk, people should think deeper. I have been married for 45 years. What remains again? I can as well finish 10 or 20 more years because it is a life sentence.”
[Punch]
The kidnappers of 14 passengers on two buses traveling from Umuahia, Abia State, to Abuja, who were kidnapped at Inele Eteke in the Olalamaboro Local Government Area of Kogi State, have contacted the husband of one of their victims and demanded a ransom of N15 million to release her.
Vanguard gathered that the incident happened on Saturday, February 3, 2024, at Inele-Eteke, Ogugu new road in Kogi East senatorial district.
A social media influencer, Chude Nnamdi, who broke the news on his X handle, said the two buses belong to God Is Good Motors, GIGM, and ABC Transport.
Chude said his wife was in one of the hijacked buses but could not ascertain the number of persons in the two buses.
“The GIGM bus left Umuahia at 7.30am and was hijacked in Kogi State. The company said they have contacted security services and they are tracking them.
”The kidnappers phoned this morning via my wife’s phone and were demanding N15 million,” Nnamdi said.
In another post, yesterday, Nnamdi said: “Passengers in two loaded buses were kidnapped and everywhere is just quiet like it is nothing. Is this the new normal? Two buses for that matter!”
He attached a message from one of the eyewitnesses who said: “Apparently, this happened around 3pm, along Olamaboro LGA, after one of the sharp road bends, some distance away from the police checkpoint.
“Both buses were five minutes in front of us. Only the GIGM driver escaped but with lots of actively bleeding cuts on his body.
“It was really scary. That spot is not really far from the boundary between Olamaboro and Enugu State.”
Kogi State police command confirmed the incident yesterday, as the state Police Public Relations Officer, SP William Aya, said the area commander who led his team to the area saw the two buses but did not see the occupants and, so could not tell the number of people kidnapped.
“Yes, the incident happened but the DPO, local vigilantes, and hunters have been in the bush in an effort to rescue the victims,” Aya said in a statement, yesterday.
The PPRO added: “The CP has deployed additional tactical squad consisting of Quick Response Unit, Police Mobile Force, Counter-Terrorism Unit, as well as conventional police personnel to the area to continue with the bush combing and to ensure all victims are rescued unhurt.
“The report reaching me this morning (yesterday) is that a GIGM and ABC Transport buses heading to Abuja were hijacked by kidnappers in Kogi State.
Tactical team rescues driver of GIG“Meanwhile, the tactical team set up by the Kogi State police command, the DPO, local vigilantes and hunters have reportedly rescued the driver of the GIGM bus, Mr Godwin
Oniovosa.“Confirming the rescue in a short statement, the command’s spokesperson, SP William Aya, said: “God is Good Motors was with 12 passengers while ABC was with 2 Passengers. Meanwhile, the driver of the God is Good Motors, Mr Godwin Oniovosa has been rescued. Bush combing continues.”
ABC mgt reacts, ALBON keeps mum
Reacting to the issue upon inquiry, yesterday, the management of ABC Transport Plc explained the circumstances leading to the hijack of the buses.
The company said in a statement: “What did occur was that at about 1:30pm on Saturday, February 3 2024, at a village called Ayele Adumu, in Olamaboro LGA of Kogi State, unknown persons blocked and attacked oncoming vehicles, among which was an ABC Sienna en-route Enugu to Abuja with two passengers.
“”The two passengers and the bus driver were led into the bush alongside other passengers of other vehicles and have since been held hostage.
“ABC Transport is actively cooperating with relevant security agencies to resolve the matter as swiftly as possible.“”Our top priority is the safety and well-being of our passengers and crew, and we are taking all necessary measures to ensure a prompt and thorough resolution to the issue at hand.“”We understand the concerns raised by the public due to the reports in circulation, and we urge everyone to rely on official statements from ABC Transport for accurate and up-to-date information. Our team is working tirelessly to provide updates as the situation unfolds.
“We appreciate the cooperation of our passengers, stakeholders, and the public in allowing us the time and space to address this matter responsibly. We remain committed to maintaining the highest standards of safety and security for our valued passengers and staff.”
On his part, President of the Association of Luxury Owners of Nigeria, ALBON, Mr Nonso Ubajaka, refused to comment on the matter. He dropped the phone when Vanguard’s Correspondent introduced himself and asked for his reaction and refused to pick further calls.
We’ll flush out killers, kidnappers from S-West —OPC
Meanwhile, the Oodua People’s Congress, OPC, yesterday, condemned the killings of two traditional rulers in Ekiti State, saying it would do everything possible to secure the South-West.
The Yoruba socio-cultural organization also urged the Federal Government to fish out the killers of the two monarchs and bring them to book.
OPC, in a statement by its Publicity Secretary, Mr Yinka Oguntimehin, in reaction to the gruesome murder of three monarchs in Ekiti and Kwara states said it is sad that the monarchs died in such a situation, adding that the OPC would not fold its arms and leave unknown gunmen to spill blood of innocent people.
The statement reads: “We have indicated our resolve to assist the government of the South-West region in addressing the surge of killings in Yoruba land.
“OPC will not allow the South-West to be used as an abattoir where innocent people will be slaughtered and gunmen would live like kings in our region. It is unacceptable. We will resist any attempt by gunmen to turn Yoruba land into a den of killers.
“It is unfortunate now that reports of killings and kidnappings are spreading across the South-West. We appeal to the federal and the state governments to co-opt the OPC in their attempt to solving the security challenges in the country.
“We are ready to salvage the region from marauders and killers that have infiltrated our region. Those behind the killings of the three traditional rulers would not go unpunished.”
Develop robots to tackle kidnapping, banditry, FOUYE VC tasks FG
Also, the Vice Chancellor of the Federal University, Oye-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Prof. Abayomi Fasina, has urged the Federal and state governments to be more innovative by investing in the development of robotics technology to tackle kidnapping, banditry and other criminalities beleaguering the country.
Fasina urged the government at all levels to provide an enabling environment that will birth opportunities for both the young and old, to arrest brain drain, which seems to be the order of the day in the country.
The Vice Chancellor said this at a press conference to herald the institution’s 18th convocation ceremony, saying, “we should use the resources we have to sustain our human and capital development.”
We need state, LG police urgently, says Olawepo-Hashim
In like manner, Former Presidential Candidate and a Chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Mr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim has urged President Bola Tinubu and the National Assembly to implement the APC’s policy of decentralization of Policing to halt the rising wave on insecurity, blood-letting and kidnapping in the country.
Civil society groups, under the aegis of the Civil Society Joint Action Group, said last week that 2,423 persons had been killed, while 1,872 others had been abducted in the eight months of President Tinubu’s administration.
Decrying the development, Olawepo-Hashim, in a statement, said that the barbaric killings and kidnappings were condemnable.
Lamenting that rampaging gangs of terrorists and kidnappers moving like a guerrilla movement round most states in Nigeria, the business-cum-politician said: “I really do not understand the hesitation on the part of the President and the party leadership to lead the charge. “Many State governments and Local Government Councils are being controlled by APC. The Party also controls the National Assembly and majority of tate houses of assembly. So, it means the party can obtain the Legislative consensus within one week to bring to birth State Policing.”
[OpinionNigeria]
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The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested the Abubakar Ahmad Sirika, the brother of Hadi Sirika, the immediate past Aviation Minister over an alleged contract fraud in the aviation ministry.
Abubakar was picked up by the anti-graft agency on Sunday, February 4 following an investigation in the Aviation Ministry.
During his tenure as minister, Sirika faces allegations including conspiracy, abuse of office, diversion of public funds, contract inflation, criminal breach of trust, and money laundering totaling N8,069,176,864.
The Commission stated that the amount in question is related to four aviation contracts awarded by the former minister to a company called Engirios Nigeria Limited, which is owned by his younger brother.
In addition to being designated as the MD/CEO of the company, Abubakar is the only signatory to its two accounts, which are maintained in Zenith and Union banks, according to the agency.
Contract Awarded to Sirika’s Company
- Sources within the EFCC disclosed that Sirika granted the contracts to his brother fully aware that Abubakar is a civil servant serving as a deputy director on Level 16 at the Federal Ministry of Water Resources, a position he has held since 2000.
- The first of the disputed contracts granted by the ex-minister to Engirios Nigeria Limited was on August 18, 2022, involving the construction of a Terminal Building at Katsina Airport, with a total cost of N1,345,586,500.
- The second was awarded on November 3, 2022 for the establishment of Fire Truck Maintenance and Refurbishment Centre in Katsina Airport, valued at N3.8 billion.
- The third contract, signed on February 3, 2023, involved the procurement and installation of lifts, air conditioners, and a power generator’s house at Aviation House in Abuja, with a total cost of N615 million.
- Meanwhile, the fourth contract, awarded on May 5, 2023, was for the procurement of Magnus Aircraft and a simulator for the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology in Zaria, totaling N2.2 billion.
More Insights
- According to reports, the former minister allegedly disbursed N3.2 billion to his brother’s company, Engirios Nigerian Limited, which subsequently transferred the funds to various entities and individuals.
- Despite this transaction, there is no evidence of any work being carried out on the contracted items to date.
- Abubakar Sirika is presently held in EFCC custody, where he is offering supplementary information concerning the financial dealings of the ministry, all under the supervision of his older brother, Hadi Sirika.
[Nairametrics]
Justice Chukwujekwu Aneke of the Federal High Court in Lagos on Tuesday nullified a criminal charge preferred against a former Chief of Air Staff, Adesola Amosu, and two others over alleged N21.5 billion money laundering.
DAILY POST reports that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, had re-arraigned the defendants on an amended 13-count charge bordering on money laundering to the tune of N21.5 billion.
Justice Aneke on Tuesday upheld a preliminary objection by the defence counsel challenging the jurisdiction of the court to entertain the case on the grounds that the defendants were serving officers of the military at the time.
It had argued that the defendants were, therefore, only subject to trial by a court martial, since they were still officers during the period.
[DailyPost]
Operatives of Tantita Security Services Limited (TSSNL) owned by former freedom fighter, Chief Government Ekpemupolo alias Tompolo, in collaboration with security personnel, have arrested another vessel for crude oil theft in Bayelsa State.
The vessel MT Harbour Spirit, with IMO No. 8226272, is anchored at the Tantita facility in Oporoza.
Details shortly…
[TheNation]
Former Kaduna Senator, Shehu Sani, has said the peaceful protest embarked on by Niger residents in Minna on Monday was a message for President Bola Tinubu-led administration.
Vanguard recalls that women and youths flooded the roundabout in the Pkakungu area of Minna to express their grievances over the economic hardship they are grappling with.
Some of the protesting men blocked the road, disrupting vehicular movement, as efforts by the police to stop the demonstration were abortive.
It took the intervention of the Deputy Governor of the state, Yakubu Garba, who addressed them for normalcy to return to the city.
Reacting to the incident, Sani, on his X account said the protest was a call for immediate impactful measures to address the epidemic poverty in the country.
The ex-federal lawmaker also disclosed that peaceful demonstration is within the scope of the rights of the citizens.
“The protest in Minna, Niger State against the high cost of living falls within the ambit of the right to peaceful dissent,” Sani wrote.
“Protest against the cost of living was also done in other European cities experiencing economic pains. “The protest is simply a message and a call for immediate and impactful measures to address the problems of the epidemic of poverty in the country,” he added.
[Vanguard]