Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has acknowledged the importance of the recent Supreme Court ruling on local government autonomy, but stated that it does not address the real issues in the country.
According to him, the judgement is a mere distraction, as the issue of autonomy for local governments is just one piece of a larger puzzle.
The landmark decision empowers local governments with greater financial independence, a move widely seen as a step towards strengthening grassroots development. However, in a statement released on Saturday Governor Makinde argued for a more comprehensive approach to addressing Nigeria’s challenges.
READ ALSO:‘Leaders will now provide services without excuses,’ Tinubu hails Supreme Court ruling on LGA autonomy
Makinde reportedly identified issues like insecurity, corruption, and a lack of economic diversification as key areas demanding urgent attention. He called for a national conversation focused on developing a cohesive strategy to tackle these challenges.
He said in part, “So the judgment of the Supreme Court, there is local government autonomy, financial autonomy, and all of that, and I will still say it, I think it’s just a distraction. We must face the real issues that we have.
“The issue that we have is that we are not producing enough. We are not productive”, he stated.
He also insisted that after all said and done, the issue of hunger and hardship in the land is still prevalent.
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Gov Makinde says S’Court judgment on LG autonomy is a distraction from real issues
LG autonomy: Let restructuring follow – Bode George to Tinubu
An erstwhile Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Bode George, has urged President Bola Tinubu to ensure that the restructuring of the country is total.
George, who gave kudos to the Supreme Court on its ruling on Local Government autonomy, said the judiciary has, once again, proved that it is the last hope of the common man.
In a statement on Saturday, the PDP leader tasked the President to ensure a complete overhaul of the polity.
According to the statement, “Thursday’s Supreme Court judgement stopping State Governments from retaining and using funds meant for the third tier of government – councils – is not only victory for democracy but a big boost for Nigeria’s political and economic development.
“The apex court was precise and unambiguous in its verdict: Allocations to Local Governments must be paid directly from the Federation Account to councils governed by democratically elected officials.
“”The judiciary has, once again, proved that it is the last hope of the common man.”
George said the courageous verdict from the apex court would have far-reaching implications for the growth of democracy in world’s most populous black country and Africa’s biggest democracy.
He equally said that the verdict would also boost democratic principles at the local level and foster transparency.
“I also read President Bola Tinubu’s statement hailing the verdict and talking about restructuring. I want to advise the President that he must go further because what Nigerians want is a complete overhaul of the polity.
“That is the only way Nigeria can work. Nigerians want total restructuring,” he added.
LG autonomy: Let restructuring follow – Bode George to Tinubu
Man arrested for defiling three-year-old in Anambra
A 38-year-old man, Ebuka Ofoma, from Osumenyi community in Nnewi South Local Government Area of Anambra State, has been arrested for allegedly defiling a three-year-old child in the community.
Ofoma was arrested on Friday by the state Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare in collaboration with the state police operatives following a tip-off by a whistleblower of his illicit acts.
In a statement and video posted on Saturday by the media aide to the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Chidimma Ikeanyionwu, the suspect said he committed the act under the influence of alcohol.
According to the statement, when interrogated, the suspect confessed to the crime but claimed he consumed eight bottles of beer on an occasion, which got him intoxicated, to have committed the act.
Recounting how it happened, the suspect said, “The little girl approached me at a traditional wedding ceremony where I was already drunk and enjoying myself, and dragged me to come and watch masquerade outside.
“After I reluctantly followed her to the scene, the girl, in fear of the masquerade, cuddled me beside a car, while I began to finger her.”
He confessed to having inserted his two fingers into the victim’s genitalia while claiming that he was not enjoying or feeling anything when he was defiling her.
He further explained that people who were around the scene when he was doing that, went to call the mother of the child when they noticed what was going on, only for him to be arrested later in his house.
“Reacting to the development, the commissioner vowed to get to the root of the matter and ensure justice is served as a deterrent to others. The suspect has been handed over to the police for further investigation and prosecution.
“She warned parents to be careful about who they entrust their daughters with, adding that the state government is all out to rid the state of illicit behaviours,” the statement added.
Rapper Falz speaks on importance of self-care to avoid burnout
Nigerian rapper and actor Folarin Falana popularly known in music circles as Falz has emphasised the importance of self-care to avoid possible burnout.
Falz who stressed the importance of self-care as it relates to mental health while speaking with Nollywood actress Osas Ighodaro on her Spa with Osas show stated that he does what makes him happy when asked how he takes care of himself.
He said; “I think self-care comes in a lot of different dimensions, so it’s caring for your mind, caring for your body, and caring for your spirit.
READ ALSO:Rapper Falz explains why he has not been in a relationship since 2008
“For me, I would say that I try to soak myself in things that give me pleasure and put me at peace. Things that inspire me and keep me happy—you want to stay in a happy place; you don’t want to feel unhappy or like something is missing.”
Falz reflected on the difficulties of aging, also admitted the toll that the past few years had taken on him, and urged Nigerians to take care of their bodies.
He said, “The last couple of years have taken a toll; it’s just life. By the time you cross 30, you start to observe things about your body. It may be your stomach today, then your ear or knees, so you have to pay attention to your body.”
The post Rapper Falz speaks on importance of self-care to avoid burnout appeared first on Latest Nigeria News | Top Stories from TVN.
Fuel subsidy removal achieved nothing – NANS tells Tinubu
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has lamented that the President Tinubu administration has done nothing to alleviate the nation’s petroleum problem, but instead made it worse.
The student body stated that rather than increasing fuel availability, the subsidy removal has caused scarcity and immense sufferings for Nigerians.
TVN had reported the hike in petrol pump price in Ogun, Lagos, Abuja and oher parts of the country.
It was gathered that while major marketers sold petrol below N650, the independent marketers sold between N750 and N800 per litre.
Expressing their dissatisfaction, the students in a statement signed by the NANS National Clerk of the Senate, Abdul-Yekinn Odunayo on Saturday, in Abeokuta, lamented that queues in petrol stations are becoming alarming despite the promises made by President Bola Tinubu.
He said, “This crisis has continued to persist despite the removal of fuel subsidy which has brought untold hardships to Nigerians.
“Nigerians are experiencing unprecedented hardship and going through hell before they can get to buy fuels.
“Queues have been a common thing at petrol stations across the country despite the promise by President Bola Tinubu that fuel will queues will disappear in the country after the removal of subsidy, but that has not been the case.
“The exorbitant cost of petrol has led to a sharp increase in transportation fares, caused a surge in the prices of essential goods and services. The increased cost of transportation and production is being passed on to consumers, exacerbating the already high cost of living.”
The student body demanded that the President and NNPC act quickly and forcefully to address the problems before Nigerians are forced to the breaking point.
Fuel subsidy removal achieved nothing – NANS tells Tinubu
Lawmaker petitions Reps over alleged killings in Taraba
The member representing Ghasaka/Kurmi/Sardauna Federal Constituency of Taraba State, David Abel Fuoh, said he personally laid a petition in the House of Representatives over alleged killings of some of his constituents by operatives of the National Park and a non-governmental organization, Africa Nature Investors, AFI.
Speaking to journalists on Saturday, the lawmaker said he was forced to submit a petition on Thursday to the lower legislative chamber over killing of human beings in guise of protecting animals in the park.
According to him, he tried to wade into incessant killings by those guarding the park which is in his constituency without success.
In what he described “excesses of park operatives and the NGO”, Fuoh said the petition would address the ugly trend, stressing that had cannot watch idly seeing his constituents dying.
The ‘Petition by the People of Mayo Balewo/Mahdanu Community against African Nature Investors (ANI), the Chief of Mayoselbe and the Controller General of National Park’, which Fuoh submitted on July 12, 2024, said three persons were killed while six others were arrested during a raid by ANI.
He said, “On Tuesday 25th June, 2024 African Nature Investors raided the residence of Wakili Isa Touga in Mayo-Balewo, killing three people and arresting six others who had been invited for a meeting with Kum Mayo-Selbe Chiefdom, Mr.Thomas Maiyanga.”
He noted that the development was part of the large pattern of brutality by ANI, resulting in at least seven deaths outside the parks boundaries and killing a large number of cattle as well as destroying farm lands and burning several houses in the guise of park protection.
The petition indicated victims of the heinous crime as: Late Mallam Adamu Yahya, 70 years old (survived by two wives, 15 children, and seven grandchildren), Late Abdu Yahya, 52 years old (survived by two wives, 13 children, and two grandchildren) and Late Nuhu Yahya, 42 years old (survived by one wife and one child).
The petition also asked relevant agencies to investigate the activities of ANI and GGNP, and ascertain their impact on local communities.
Lawmaker petitions Reps over alleged killings in Taraba
Nigerian film “Kimono Kid” debuts at Toronto Film Festival
Nigerian filmmakers, Seyi Akinlade and Josef Adamu have set the international stage alive with the first screening of “Kimono Kid” at the 49th edition of the Toronto International Film Festival.
According Online reports that the Toronto International Film Festival starts on September 5 to 15, 2024, in Toronto, Canada.
The film ‘Kimono Kid’ marks its feature directorial debut as it tells the story of a young man who turns to martial arts as a means to process grief and overcome self-doubt following a personal loss.
Akinlade and Adamu, known for their previous short film “Mind Matters” which explored themes of mental health from a youth perspective, are enthusiastic to unveil this new project to audiences.
Speaking at an event in Lagos on Saturday, Adamu stated that the film demonstrates their ongoing commitment to crafting stories that uplift communities and facilitate important discussions.
Adamu added that one of the most memorable aspects of making the film was witnessing young martial artists in Nigeria demonstrate their advanced skills on set.
He said, “It was truly inspiring to see up close. I’m glad we were able to provide a platform to share their talents with the world.”
The film’s underlying message of finding inner strength to rise above life’s challenges reflects the filmmakers’ dedication to empowering and motivating viewers through their art.
TIFF is a prestigious platform, and having the Nigerian representation provides an incredible opportunity to share our work with a global audience, opening doors for further collaborations and projects. It’s a proud moment for everyone involved in the film, showcasing the talent and creativity coming out of Nigeria.
The Nigerian premiere of Kimono Kid is set for the end of the year.
BREAKING: Anambra judiciary workers declare strike, to paralyse courts from Monday
Workers in Anambra State judiciary have declared a strike action.
A letter notifying the state government of their intention to commence the indefinite strike, which was made available to journalists on Saturday in Awka, said the action commences on Monday.
The development is expected to cripple court activities and other judiciary matters in the state.
The workers under the aegis of Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria, JUSUN, said the the strike is to protest non-adherence to an agreement reached between the group and the state government in 2011 and 2015.
At a press conference in Awka, addressed by their leaders, Mr Henry Ezeoke, chairman, and Ugochukwu Nwezi, secretary, the judiciary workers said the action was as a result of Anambra government’s refusal to pay Consolidated Judiciary Salary Structure, CONJUS.
A letter of notice by the group to the stakeholders in the judiciary sector stated that the strike will last indefinitely, until government meets the conditions.
The letter which was addressed to Assistant Chief Registrars, Registrars in-charge, and all staff of the Anambra State judiciary, called for the withdrawal of services.
The group stated that this was necessary following the expiration of a 21 days ultimatum issued to the state government by the union on the matter, which was ignored.
The letter read: “Based on the failure of the Anambra State Government to comply with the agreement reached in 2011 and 2015 respectively with the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN), Anambra State Branch for the full implementation of the Consolidated Judiciary Salary Structure (CONJUS), a notice is hereby issued.
“All staff of the Anambra State Judiciary are directed to withdraw their services, effective from Monday the 15th day of July, 2024, pending further directives by the union in the state.”
The workers said they have explored all possible avenues without luck, and believe that downing tools is the only language government would understand.
BREAKING: Anambra judiciary workers declare strike, to paralyse courts from Monday
PDP, APC commiserate with Plateau gov over school building collapse
The Peoples Democratic Party has condoled Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State and the parents affected by the tragic school building collapse in Jos, the state capital.
This is just as the leadership of the All Progressives Congress has declared that it is deeply saddened by the news of the school’s collapse.
The death toll from the school building collapse in Jos, Plateau State, on Friday morning, has risen to 22.
Initially, the Executive Secretary of the State Emergency Management Agency, Sunday Abdu, reported 17 fatalities, following a rescue operation at Saint Academy in the Busa Buji community of Jos North Local Government Area.
However, in a statement released on Friday night, the state Commissioner for Information, Musa Ashoms, updated the figures, confirming that the death toll had increased to 22, with 154 others sustaining various degrees of injuries.
In response, the PDP, through a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, on Saturday, expressed sadness over the incident, which has caused immense agony, sorrow, and pain to the students, teachers, parents, families, the government, and the people of Plateau State, as well as the entire nation.
The statement read in part, “Indeed, the heartrending death of these young Nigerian children who left their respective homes to school in search of knowledge and pursuit of their dreams and aspirations came as a huge blow to our nation and humanity and we pray that their death will not be in vain.
“Our party commiserates with Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State and stands in prayers with the teachers, parents, siblings and families of the victims as well as the injured at this trying time.
“The PDP commends Governor Mutfwang for his swift intervention in search and rescue operation, recovery and provision of all necessary emergency aids including prompt evacuation of victims and medical assistance to the injured.
“The PDP prays for the repose of the souls of the dead, divine consolation for the bereaved and speedy recovery of the injured.”
Also expressing sadness at the incident in a statement by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, the APC described the collapse as “unbearably heartbreaking.”
The statement read, “The All Progressives Congress is deeply saddened by the news of the collapse of the Saint Academy School building in Busa Abuja in Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State which claimed the lives of children, students, staff and injured many others yesterday, Friday, July 12, 2024.
“We send our heartfelt condolences to the families of the innocent lives lost and best wishes for speedy recovery to those injured by the tragic incident. The incident is unbearably heartbreaking as the children and adults killed and injured were in the place they were supposed to be, in school, doing exactly what was expected of them.
“We urge the Plateau State Government to enforce building control standards more vigorously to guarantee safety and prevent a reoccurrence of a tragedy of this kind. We commend the emergency response led by the National Emergency Management Agency, and other agencies, including medical personnel that conducted the rescue, evacuation and treatment of victims of this horrific incident.
“May God grant the departed eternal rest and may He comfort the families they left behind. Amen.
According Online reports that the Saint Academy School building, located in the Busa Buji community, collapsed around 8.30 am. on Friday when the students and teachers were in their classes.
The state Commissioner for Information, Musa Ashoms, disclosed in a statement on Friday that 120 persons were trapped under the rubbles while giving an update on the incident.
Nigeria’s problems beyond LG autonomy, says Makinde
The Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has described the Supreme Court’s judgment on local government autonomy as a distraction from the more pressing issues facing the country.
In a video released on Saturday, Makinde emphasized the need to address the underlying problems of productivity, hunger, and anger in Nigeria.
He said in part, “So the judgment of the Supreme Court, there is local government autonomy, financial autonomy, and all of that, and I will still say it, I think it’s just a distraction. We must face the real issues that we have.
“The issue that we have is that we are not producing enough. We are not productive.
According reports that in a landmark judgment delivered by Justice Emmanuel Agim, a seven-member panel of the Supreme Court ruled that the 774 local government councils in Nigeria have the constitutional right to manage their finances autonomously without interference from state governments.
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