Author Archives: News All Around

In a bid to ensure a victorious outing in the September 21, 2024 Edo State Governorship Election, stakeholders of the Labour Party under the aegis of the Labour Party Forum for Justice, Equity and Fairness have called on the party leadership to adopt Barr. Ken Imasuangbon as the gubernatorial candidate and Olumide Akpata as his deputy.

According to Dr. Ben Osage, in a press statement, the move is aimed at upholding the principles of equity, justice, and fairness, which are the hallmarks of the Labour Party. He noted that the party’s chances of winning the election are threatened by the current ticket, which has been marred by controversy and legal challenges.

Osage argued that the party’s failure to adhere to the principles of power rotation and inclusiveness could lead to a loss of credibility and electoral defeat. He pointed out that other political parties have demonstrated a commitment to equity and fairness in their selection of candidates, and the Labour Party should follow suit.

The stakeholders’ position is that Barr. Ken Imasuangbon, from Edo Central, should be the party’s gubernatorial candidate, while Olumide Akpata should serve as his deputy. This, they believe, will ensure a united and formidable campaign that can secure victory for the party.

The statement also commended the efforts of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) to reconcile all interests and reorganize the party for effective participation in the democratic process. However, the stakeholders emphasized that genuine reconciliation must prioritize justice, equity, and fairness.

With the election drawing near, the Labour Party faces a critical decision that will determine its fate in the poll. Will the party heed the call of its stakeholders and adopt a ticket that embodies the principles of equity, justice, and fairness? Only time will tell.

CSOs Give Reasons Nigerians Should Support Cyber Security Levy

Members of Coalition of Civil Society Organisations under aegis of Forum for Good Governance in Nigeria (FGGN) have urged the federal government to reintroduce the Cyber Security Levy considering the advantages of enhancer security framework of financial operations in the country.

According the CSOs ,advantages of the cyber security Levy far outweighs the excuses given for revoking it.

Nigeria’s central bank did withdraw the controversial 0.5% cybersecurity levy on electronic transfers three days before it was supposed to take effect.

The levy was seen as “regressive” by financial industry experts due to the increase in the cost of an electronic transaction amidst the country’s highest inflation rate in thirty years and a cost of living crisis. Following mounting pressure from labour unions, the federal government suspended the levy and said it would be reviewed on Tuesday

The Civil Society Organisations in
a Communique issued after a one-day Review Meeting held at Arewa Auditorium today on with the theme: “Economic implications of Revoking the Cyber Security Levy vis-a-vis the advantages” backed the reintroduction of the Levy,since it’s in line with internationally best practices .

In the communique jointly signed by the National Coordinator and Secretary;Comrade Abraham Douglas and Comrade Bala Galadima Ikara,members of the CSOs across 28 States of Nigeria reviewed the pros and cons and agree that the cyber security levy will enhance the security framework of financial operations.

While insisting that the Cyber Security Levy should be Re-Introduced considering the advantages, the CSOs said there is no alternate to a secured and trustworthy electronic transaction environment which will promote economic growth and digital financial inclusion.

According to the groups, considering the country’s battered image globally, the Levy will help fund the development of a robust cybersecurity infrastructure . Stressing,”Cyber funding has become a veritable means of funding for terrorists and there’s no way to combat terrorism successfully without denying them there sources of funding.

Further explaining reasons for supporting CBN over the Cyber Security Levy is the implementation of advanced security measures; protecting financial institutions and customers from cyber threats and attacks by the so called ,”Yahoo Boys” .Adding that Cyber crimes have destroyed the lives of many young people and must be discouraged.

The communique further reads: “That in Compliance with Global Standards, the levy will help Nigeria align with international best practices in cybersecurity; enhancing the country’s reputation and attract foreign investment, as investors will be assured of a secure environment for their investments.

“Against this background,We have strongly come out to support the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) circular and letter to all banks dated June25,2018(Ref:BPS/DlR/GEN/ClR/05/008)October5,2018(Ref:BSD/DIR/GEN/LAB/11/023) respectively on compliance with the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc.) Act 2015 refer.

“We did concur in line with the enactment of the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc) (Amendment) Act 2024 and pursuant to the provision of Section 44 (2)(a) of the Act, “a levy of 0.5% (0.005) equivalent to a half per cent of all electronic transactions value by the business specified in the Second Schedule of the Act’, which is to be remitted to the National Cybersecurity Fund (NCF), which shall be administered by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA).

“This because, the implementation of the Levy will no doubt enhance National Security and guarantee strengthening of cybersecurity; protecting critical infrastructure and sensitive information.”

Feyi Abdulkareem

Concerned Plant Quarantine professionals has appealed to the Federal Government to as a matter of urgency disbands Nigerian Agricultural Quarantine Service (N.A.Q.S) an agency under the Federal Ministry of Agriculture.

This is contained in a Communique signed by the Chairman of the professionals, Alhaji Jaiyeola Olaniran and Secretary, Sallah Ibrahim and made available to Newsmen on Wednesday.

The communique reads ” The plant Quarantine Service is made up of inspectors who are trained Agronomists and plant pathologists who are specifically trained and certified to identify pests and diseases of plants and plants products of exotic origin on international trade.

“Therefore, they are professionally incompatible with veterinary Doctors who deals with Animals diseases and fisheries who look after fishes.

” The bulk of operational activities in the organization are being carried out by the plant Quarantine inspectors issuing import permit to prospective plants importers and phytosanitary certificate to plant products exporters to meet standard on international trade.

According to the communique all the physical structures that are currently been used for operations , trainings and research belongs to the plant Quarantine Service component of the agency adding that other harmonizing professionals units had none.

” With the reverse salary structure in the agency the veterinary doctors are collecting salaries that are threefolds to the other professionals colleagues in the agency. This is because they enter the service on GL12 while others enter with GL8 as they are claiming superiority thereby placing themselves in all the stations nationwide despite not having the technical know-how at the agency.

The statement revealed that the lumping together of veterinary Doctors, Animal Husbandry, fisheries with plant Quarantine Service units were responsible for the rejection of 102 corps by the European Union countries from Nigeria since 2008 till date because these other professionals colleagues impersonate as plant Quarantine inspectors at thr point of exits amd thereby certified these corps to pass clearance checks without specified protocols of clean health condition on international trade which is done mostly for pecuniary reasons.

” All the infrastructures at the post-entry unit of the plants quarantine services which serves as the engine room where laboratory findings are carried out on plants and plants products for exports and imports are completely deserted and non-existent.

The professionals requested that it’s out of place for veterinary Doctors to be presiding over plants activities as it’s presently constituted in NAQS as the staff members who are Agronomists and pathologists are seriously finding it uncomfortable to work with them.

It stressed that corps are more on the traffic on the international trade and plant Quarantine inspectors are custodians of International standards with specific rules and regulations that guides these trade .

” The agency is relatively four years therefore it’s operating on wastages and continuously increasing burden on cost of governance for the present administration. We pead in the overall national interest for the disbandment of NAQS.

It further added ” we request that square peg should be in square holes as all the component professionals that are currently constituted in the agency should be reassigned to their parents departments in the Agriculture ministry for optimum functioning.

” The plants quarantine services does not need an agency to operate but a fullfleged department in the ministry.”

Several attempts to get the reactions of the agency in question to respond proved abortive at the time of filing this report.

The Arewa Youth Assembly For Good Leadership (AYAGL) and Arewa Youth Assembly (AYA) have condemned the recent sponsored protests against the Minister of State, Defence, Dr. Bello Matawalle. In a statement, the groups expressed their support for Matawalle, describing him as a “selfless and exemplary leader” who is committed to the progress and development of Northern Nigeria.

The groups noted that the sponsors of the protests are motivated by jealousy and a desire to bring Matawalle down politically, but they vowed to resist any attempts to malign or assassinate his character. They praised Matawalle’s performance as Minister, citing the recent promotion exercise in the Nigerian Navy as an example of his fairness and patriotism.

The groups also passed a vote of confidence on Matawalle, describing him as a “good Ambassador of Late Sardauna” and a symbol of good governance and purposeful leadership. They warned against allowing themselves to be used against Matawalle, who they described as a dedicated public servant committed to the progress and development of Zamfara State and Northern Nigeria.

The statement read in part: “We are 100% behind Dr. Bello Matawalle because he is doing a good job in the cabinet of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. We will lend him all the support he requires to succeed in the task assigned to him by Mr. President. Dr. Bello Matawalle represents the virtue of Late Sardauna and he must be encouraged to continue.”

The groups also urged Northern youth to support Matawalle, saying “No Youth of Northern Extraction should allow himself to be used against this selfless public servant. Matawalle’s love for progress and development of Zamfara State and Northern Nigeria has no bound, therefore, all hands must be on deck to support him and to encourage him.”

Arewa Youth Consultative Forum Affirms INEC’s Credibility Following Peter Obi’s Comments … The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) has reiterated its unwavering trust in the credibility of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) following recent comments made by presidential candidate Peter Obi of the Labour Party. In a statement issued by Yerima Shettima, President General of the AYCF, the Forum reiterates its longstanding belief that INEC is a reputable institution that consistently upholds the principles of fairness, impartiality, and transparency in conducting elections. Peter Obi’s acknowledgment that the judiciary, rather than INEC, poses the greatest challenge to Nigeria’s democracy, further strengthens our conviction in the integrity of INEC. The AYCF has long maintained that INEC is a credible, impartial, and unbiased institution that consistently conducts credible elections. Peter Obi’s remarks have vindicated our stance and affirmed that INEC is not the primary obstacle to democratic electoral practices in Nigeria. We emphasized the importance of strong institutions like INEC in ensuring the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral process. He further highlighted the detrimental impact of the judiciary assuming the role of the sole arbiter in election matters. “The AYCF firmly believes that strong and independent institutions such as INEC are essential in preserving the democratic fabric of our nation. The Forum recognizes the critical role that INEC plays in upholding the will of the people through free, fair, and credible elections. “We commend INEC for its dedication to ensuring the integrity of the electoral process and safeguarding the democratic rights of Nigerian citizens. It is our steadfast belief that any attempts to undermine the credibility of INEC or question its impartiality are detrimental to the progress of our democratic system. “The AYCF stands firm in its commitment to promoting transparency, accountability, and good governance in Nigeria’s electoral system. We will continue to advocate for the independence and effectiveness of INEC in carrying out its constitutional mandate”. Furthermore, the AYCF condemns any undue interference or overreach by the judiciary in electoral affairs. We believe that the judiciary’s role in electoral matters should be limited to adjudicating legal disputes and upholding the rule of law, rather than assuming the primary responsibility for determining electoral outcomes. Such interference undermines the credibility and legitimacy of the electoral process and threatens the foundations of democracy in Nigeria. The AYCF called on all stakeholders, including political parties, civil society organizations, and the media, to support and uphold the independence of INEC in conducting free, fair, and credible elections, while also urging all Nigerians to remain vigilant and actively participate in the electoral process to safeguard the democratic principles upon which our nation is founded. ENDS

By Ibrahim. H Tinja

In a remarkable achievement, Maryam Abacha American University (MAAUN) has emerged as the second best private university in Nigeria, surpassing many older and more established institutions. This impressive feat was announced in the recently published Nigeria Private Universities Ranking 2024 by AD Scientific.

Under the visionary leadership of its founder and President, Prof. Adamu Abubakar Gwarzo, MAAUN has demonstrated exceptional academic prowess, earning it a coveted spot among the nation’s top private universities. This accomplishment is a testament to Prof. Gwarzo’s unwavering dedication to providing quality education and bridging the gap between Nigeria and developed countries.

The ranking, which placed Covenant University Otawas at the top, followed by MAAUN and Redeemers University in second and third positions, respectively, is a resounding endorsement of MAAUN’s commitment to academic excellence. Prof. Gwarzo expressed his gratitude to parents and students, assuring them that the university remains steadfast in its pursuit of academic greatness.

“We are thrilled to achieve this milestone, and I assure parents that MAAUN will continue to strive for excellence, providing our students with a world-class education that enables them to compete globally,” Prof. Gwarzo said. With his unrelenting efforts, MAAUN is poised to reach even greater heights, solidifying its position as a leader in Nigeria’s academic landscape.

The university’s remarkable ranking is a reflection of its unwavering commitment to quality education, and its students, faculty, and staff can take pride in this outstanding achievement. As MAAUN continues to soar, it’s clear that the sky’s the limit for this trailblazing institution!

By Dattijo Sani Rano PhD

The grand conspiracy from Northern Nigeria against the reemergence of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term that was hinted at by the President’s loyal political allies in the region is gradually but surely coming into the open.
The recent open declaration by the Northern Elders Forum (NEF) that the North would work against Tinubu in 2027 is a clear indication that there are powerful forces at work to undermine the President’s second term chances and set the stage for a carefully orchestrated plot against him.
This bold and unequivocal statement by the NEF has sent shockwaves through the political landscape, as it reveals a clear intent to thwart Tinubu’s ambitions. The fact that such a group has openly declared its opposition to Tinubu’s bid speaks volumes about the deep-seated opposition and resistance he faces from outside and within his own political circles. It is further evidence that there are powerful forces at play who are determined to derail his political aspirations with a concerted effort to block his path to a second term.
The alignment of key players like the Kwankwaso camp and the Atiku Abubakar forces against him further highlights the depth of this conspiracy. The connivance of leaders from the North and the self-serving greed of those within the Presidential Villa are enabling this plot to take root and thrive.
The emergence of key figures such as Alhaji Danbilki Kwamanda and Prof Khalifa Dikwa, who have openly criticized Tinubu’s administration and suggested Kashim Shettima as alternative candidate for the presidency, sheds light on the depth of the conspiracy. These individuals, along with the Kwankwaso camp and the Atiku Abubakar forces, are actively working to undermine Tinubu’s drive and pave the way for their own agendas.
In the midst of this sinister plot, Alhaji Danbilki Kwamanda, along with other key figures such as Prof Khalifa Dikwa, have expressed their support for the North East Forum’s position regarding the potential replacement of President Tinubu. Alhaji Danbilki Kwamanda, the arrowhead for the Northwestern plank of the plan, has even gone so far as to suggest Vice President Kashim Shettima as a likely preferred candidate.
This stance was further solidified by Prof Khalifa Dikwa, the Dean of Borno Elders Forum, who has raised false concerns about the perceived weaknesses and lopsided nature of President Tinubu’s appointments. These individuals seem to be united in their belief that a change in leadership is necessary.
The insidious nature of this conspiracy is further exemplified by the awarding of a 147 billion naira contract to a Katsina opposition party strongman by a serving minister in the administration. This blatant display of betrayal and manipulation underscores the extent to which those within President Tinubu’s inner circle are willing to go to advance their own interests at the expense of the nation.
It is clear that President Tinubu is facing a formidable challenge from within his own ranks. The power struggle and backstabbing taking place behind the scenes threaten to derail his administration and undermine his legacy.
He must take immediate action to counteract the machinations of those seeking to undermine his aspiration. He must surround himself and listen to loyal and competent friends like the former Kano State governor Abdullahi Ganduje who have lots of useful insight to share.
It is time for Tinubu to identify and remove the Judases within his camp, and forge ahead with a team of individuals that is dedicated to upholding the values of justice and honest enterprise.
It is imperative that President Tinubu takes swift and decisive action to counteract these malicious maneuvers. The recent award of a 140 billion naira contract to an opposition member by a serving minister is a glaring example of the subversion taking place within his own administration.
The warning signals from high-ranking northern appointees in the Tinubu administration must therefore not be ignored. The President must heed the advice of his remaining two vigorous supporters and allies before it is too late. The time for complacency is over; President Tinubu must act decisively to protect his presidency and ensure the continued progress and prosperity of the nation.
Tinubu should be aware of the challenges he is facing from an emerging opposition that aims to weaken his support base in the northern region of the country. Already, several of his loyal friends and partners, such as Nasir Elrufai, Yahaya Bello, and Aminu Bello Masari, have been marginalized through the opposition’s manipulative tactics.
The only two allies left standing, Ganduje and Matawalle, are also under constant attack and defamation, with the ultimate goal of eroding Tinubu’s influence in the north. This concerted effort to dismantle Tinubu’s support base is a clear indication of the threat posed by this emerging opposition.
Tinubu must take note of these developments and take necessary steps to safeguard his political interests in the northern region. It is imperative that he strengthens his alliances, engages in strategic planning, and remains vigilant against any attempts to undermine his position.
It is time to rise to the occasion, take control of the narrative, and assert his authority over those seeking to undermine him. The success of his administration and the future of the nation depend on his ability to navigate these treacherous waters and emerge victorious against the forces seeking to derail his leadership and future chances.
Only by remaining vigilant and steadfast in the face of adversity can he secure his place in history as a leader who stood firm against the forces of division and discord.
(Rano, a political analyst, writes from Kano and can be reached at: DrRanoMD@gmail.com)

The Yoruba Youth Council (YYC) has called for the removal of the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Emmanuel Ogalla, due to allegations of supporting oil thieves and sabotaging President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s efforts to combat oil theft. The YYC has passed a vote of no confidence in Ogalla and is demanding a thorough investigation into his activities.

The allegations against Ogalla include large-scale corruption, procurement fraud, and contract splitting, which were levelled against him in a petition by a group of concerned Nigerians in January. The YYC is disturbed by the allegations and claims that Ogalla’s actions are undermining the President’s efforts to fight oil theft.

The YYC specifically mentioned the release of a ship arrested for oil theft and the alleged dilution of exhibit samples as examples of Ogalla’s sabotage. The President has reportedly ordered the re-arrest of the ship and a full investigation into the matter. The YYC is urging the President to remove any obstacles to his efforts to combat oil theft and sanitise the oil sector.

The petition by the group of concerned Nigerians expressed distress at the allegations against Ogalla, given the significant revenue losses Nigeria is experiencing due to crude oil theft. They called for action to be taken against Ogalla, who is responsible for safeguarding Nigeria’s waterways against oil theft and other criminal activities.

… He has right to do legitimate business any where

Group under aegis of Forum For Good Governance (FGGN), has come out strongly to defend the President’s Son,Mr. Seyi Tinubu after former Vice President,Alhaji Atiku Abubakar faulted the award of contract to a company he serves as a board member.

The former Vice President had accused the federal government of awarding construction of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal highway to Hitech Construction Company Ltd.

He did allege that Seyi is a director on the board of CDK Integrated Industries, a subsidiary of the Chagoury Group, which is a parent company of Hitech.

However ,In a press Statement jointly signed by the National Coordinator and Secretary;Comrade Abraham Douglas and Comrade Bala Galadima Ikara, the group said the fact that Seyi’s father is the President should not deny him access to pursue legitimate business interests within and outside the country.

While stating that the gigantic projects such as the Lagos-Calabar Coastal highway would no doubt boost the economy; engender growth and development, it noted, “Seyi Tinubu an adult,who has a right to do business in as much as ,it’s within the limits of the law.”

The Statement further reads: “From the information we gathered, Seyi joined the Board of Directors of CDK in 2018 as an investor, with a good record of performance. So ,why deny such investor with capacity right to business patronage because, his father is the president.

“Unfortunately for Atiku who raised the issue, the Chairman of CDK and the highest shareholder of the company is General T.Y. Danjuma (retd.) and not Seyi Tinubu, who has been involved in business several years,before the father became President.

“The big question we are asking Atiku is , ” How has Seyi as an investor on the board of CDK, conflicts with Hitech Construction Company’s work on Lagos-Calabar Coastal superhighway.

“He who must come to equity must come with clean hands. If Atiku raised an issue of conflict of interest,what we do say of him during his days as the vice-president, established Intels Nigeria with an Italian entrepreneur while serving in the Nigeria Customs Service .

“When he was Vice President of Nigeria between 1999-2007, he maintained his business links with Intels that won major port concession deals in Nigeria.”

A storm is brewing in the Niger Delta region as Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide, a prominent Igbo socio-cultural organization, has blown the whistle on the endemic oil theft plaguing the area. Despite the heavy presence of naval officials, oil thieves continue to operate with impunity, leaving Nigerians in a state of anguish.

Mazi Okwu Nnabuike, National President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide, has issued a clarion call for a radical overhaul of the Naval high command, citing the unending allegations of oil theft and the apparent complicity of naval officials. The recent incident involving MT MONTAGU and MT PRESTIGIOUS has exposed the shocking extent of the corruption, with naval officials releasing a ship carrying stolen crude oil despite a counter order to re-arrest it.

“This is a slap in the face of President Tinubu’s anti-corruption crusade!” Okwu exclaimed. “How can we trust the Naval high command to protect our oil resources when they are complicit in the theft?”

The Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide has thrown its weight behind President Tinubu’s efforts to rid the country of corruption, but warns that the current Naval hierarchy is a stumbling block to progress. “We urge the President to take decisive action and appoint an Igbo officer as replacement to restore integrity and transparency in the oil production chain,” Okwu said.

As Nigerians continue to suffer the excruciating pains of corruption, the Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide has vowed to stand firm against the rot in the system. “We will not rest until sanity is restored to the oil production chain and the corrupt elements in the Naval hierarchy are brought to justice,” Okwu declared.

The clock is ticking, and the nation waits with bated breath for President Tinubu’s response to this clarion call. Will he heed the warning and take bold action to address the corruption in the Naval high command, or will the status quo continue to prevail? Only time will tell.