President Bola Tinubu on Sunday in Abuja extended condolences to bereaved families of victims of Friday’s fire in Rivers.
At least five persons died and more than 70 vehicles were burnt on Friday when a fuel-laden tanker was engulfed in an inferno following an accident it had at the Eleme section of the East-West Road.
The fuel tanker collided with a heavy-duty truck of a construction company working on that section of the road roughly 10 kilometres from the Port Harcourt Refinery.
Following the accident, there was an extensive gridlock stretching for more than five kilometres on the road still under reconstruction by the Rivers government.
Tinubu’s spokesman, Chief Ajuri Ngelale, stated that the president prayed for speedy recovery of those injured in the accident and commiserated with the government and people of Rivers over the tragedy.
The president directed federal agencies in the state to continue to liaise with the state government to provide the much-needed immediate support for victims of the accident.
Tinubu commended the first responders in Rivers for their bravery and dedication in assisting those affected.
He also expressed confidence that stricter safety regulations for the transportation of petroleum products would be implemented to prevent such tragedies in the future, Ngelale stated. (NAN)
The Senate Committee on Finance is exploring a range of policy options to mitigate the impact of Naira depreciation and foster economic stability says Senator Mohammed Sani Musa.
Sen.Musa who is the Chairman, Senate Committee on Finance in a statement on Sunday stressed the need for concerted effort to tackle the instability and continuous depreciation of the Naira.
He stated,”As we continue to navigate on getting back our nation and economy back on track, I am issuing this statement to address the current state of the economy and the need for concerted efforts at tackling the instability and continuous depreciation of the Naira.
“The Nigerian economy is facing significant challenges, exacerbated by both internal and external factors. Despite efforts to stabilize and bolster economic growth, the numerous initiatives and bold but necessary steps and policy decisions taken by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, the persistent depreciation of the Naira against major foreign currencies has become a pressing concern.
“The recent depreciation of the Naira underscores the need for proactive measures to safeguard the stability and resilience of our currency. The Senate Committee on Finance is closely monitoring the situation and is committed to working collaboratively with relevant stakeholders to implement effective policies and strategies.
“It is imperative that we address the root causes of Naira depreciation, including but not limited to fluctuations in global oil prices, fiscal deficits, and structural imbalances in the economy. Furthermore, we must continue to enhance transparency and accountability in our fiscal management processes to instill confidence in investors and promote sustainable economic growth.
“In light of these challenges, the Senate Committee on Finance is exploring a range of policy options to mitigate the impact of Naira depreciation and foster economic stability. This includes robust oversight of fiscal policies, engagement with key stakeholders, and the formulation of targeted interventions to support key sectors of the economy.”
He added,”It is also the hope of the committee our economic managers will adhere strictly to the norms and standards set by this administration to ensure that we achieve the desired outcomes in taking Nigeria to its economic growth and prosperity. As we pledge to give Mr. President and his executive arm of government every opportunity and support in legislation to achieve the set goals.
“As we navigate these uncertain times, I urge all Nigerians to remain vigilant and resilient. Together, we can overcome the challenges facing our economy and chart a path towards prosperity for all.”
Police arrest man for allegedly printing, distributing fake Police ID Cards
The Police Command in Kwara has reinforced security measures, deployed additional manpower to key locations in response to a recent jail break in neighboring Niger State.
This is contained in a statement signed by the the Command Spokesperson, DSP. Toun Ejire-Adeyemi, on Sunday in Ilorin.
She said that the command is working closely with the relevant agencies to ensure the safety and security of the state.
“On the 24th of April, 2024, there was a heavy rainstorm which occurred at night and extensively damaged part of the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Suleja, Niger State, leading to the escape of 118 inmates.
“The breach in the perimeter fence caused by the downpour facilitated the escape, as reported by an official of the Nigeria Correctional Service, ACC Abubakar Umar.
“In response to this incident, the Nigerian Correctional Service promptly activated its recapturing protocols and so far has successfully recovered 13 of the escaped inmates. Collaborative efforts with other security agencies are ongoing to recapture the 105 fleeing inmates.
“As a neighboring state, the Kwara state police are fully aware of the security implications of such an incident, and the Commissioner of Police, CP Victor Olaiya, has assured that the command is on high alert and is working closely with the relevant agencies to ensure the safety and security of our state.
Ejire-Adeyemi quoted CP Olaiya as assuring the public that adequate measures have been put in place to prevent any attempt by the escaped inmates to enter or cause harm within the state.
“Patrols have been intensified along the border areas, and surveillance has been increased in vulnerable locations.
“We urge all citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the nearest security agency.
“Together, we can maintain peace and security in our communities.
“The Kwara State Police Command remains committed to its mandate of protecting lives and property and assures the citizens of its readiness to respond swiftly to any security challenges,” Olaiya added.
According to Ejire-Adeyemi, the command control room is available 24/7 everyday of the week, urging residents to please call any of the numbers if they notice any suspicious person(s) or movements on the numbers – 07032069501 or 08125275046. (NAN)
The Federal Government has begun the demolition of properties affected by the right of way on the Lagos-Calabar coastal road construction.
The Minister of works, David Umahi, made this known in a statement released by Mr Orji Uchenna, his Special Adviser on Media, on Sunday in Abuja.
Umahi said that the project would mark a major milestone in the Renewed Hope roadmap of President Bola Tinubu towards economic diversification.
He said: “The Federal Government is passionate about the plight of the people and will, in the exercise of the right of way, put a human face on the demolition of properties required to give way for the construction of the coastal highway.
Umahi said: “The Federal Government is considering the most economically-viable way to pass the coastal road without much damages.
“So there would be no delay in the payment of compensation to affected property owners. So I solicit your cooperation to the timeline of the demolition exercise.
“We are doing some minor adjustments, and our commitment is to stay within the coastline.”
Umahi called on those affected by the demolition exercise to take it as a sacrifice for the ultimate impact of the project for the economic prosperity of the nation. (NAN)
The Police Command in Lagos State says the Nigerian Army has handed over a dismissed soldier and three others to it over alleged impersonation.
The command’s spokesman , SP Benjamin Hundeyin, confirmed the handing over to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday.
Hundeyin said that an Army Captain (name not mentioned), attached to Dodan Barracks, Obalende ,brought the four suspects (names withheld), to Onikan Police Division on Friday at about 5.01 p.m.
He said that all the suspects were of no fixed addresses, adding that one of them was dismissed from the Army in 2016.
Hundeyin said the suspects were caught wearing camouflage, T-shirt and face cap of the Nigerian Army.
“On interrogation, it was discovered that the suspects frequently committed various crimes using military accoutrements and they equally used them to beat check points.
” Efforts are on to ascertain how they got the army uniforms. Investigation is ongoing, ” he said. (NAN)
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) says it has arrested 111 suspected criminals between January and March.
The Commandant, Olusola Odumosu said in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday in Abuja, that nine of the suspects were arrested for vandalising public infrastructure and 102 over illegal mining.
Odumosu said that the suspects had been arraigned in court with some already convicted while others were granted bail or undergoing further investigation.
He added that one of the suspects was discharged and acquitted by the court.
Giving a breakdown of the suspects, the commandant said one Munkalu Yakubu and 41 others are in court over illegal mining of gold in Dai village, Kwali Area Council.
“There is also an alleged case of illegal mining of gold against one Ibrahim Talasne and 52 others as well as an alleged case of illegal mining of precious stones by one Saidu Ismail and six others who were arrested at CITEC area in Idu.”
According to him, the command also arrested some suspects for vandalising public infrastructure.
“One Yakubu Mati was arrested while vandalising railway line armored cable at metro railway station in Idu.
“Similarly, Anthong Batoulumen and three others were arrested for vandalising armored cable at Mabushi.
“Obadiah Ezekiel was also arrested for vandalizing a shop at Games Village while Wodi Sunday, Habib Mohammed and Jibirin Idris were arrested for vandalising telecommunication asset and theft,” he added.
Odumosu said that exhibits recovered from the suspects included a decommissioned telecommunication mast, pumping machine, armored cables, litres of fuel, and gold substance among others.
He also said that the command’s intelligence unit had arrested seven persons for allegedly producing illegal firearms.
The commandant warned against vandalising critical national assets and infrastructure, saying anyone caught would be made to face the full wrath of the law.
He assured that civil defence personnel would intensify efforts to make the FCT safe and very tough for criminals.
Odumosu, therefore, called on residents to be security conscious within their environment and report any suspicious movement to security agencies.
Meanwhile, the commandant said the recently inaugurated female strike force has been saddled with the responsibility of protecting schools in the territory.
The squad will aid in ensuring students, teachers and schools properties in the FCT are protected, he added. (NAN)
Vice-President Kashim Shettima has urged political leaders to project the beauty of the nation’s cultural diversity.
Mr Stanley Nkwocha, spokesperson of the Vice-President, in a statement on Saturday, said Shettima made the call during conferment of the Chieftaincy title of Asiwaju of Ijebuland on Dr Sulaiman Adegunwa.
According to the statement, the ceremony held in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State.
Shettima emphasised the importance of service to humanity and peaceful coexistence in the country.
He conveyed greetings from President Bola Tinubu, describing the new Asiwaju as “a worthy son of the soil, a leader committed to entrenching peaceful coexistence across the length and breadth of the nation.”
Shettima said: ” the event we are all gathered here to witness is not just one that celebrates the intertwining between leadership and culture but indeed the essence of humanity which is service.
“As beautiful as we all look in the various attires we are putting on, so is the beauty in our diversity, so is the beauty of our heritage, so is the beauty of our cultures which bellies in our age-long tradition.”
He called on Adegunwa to see his new role as a call to service and a reminder that, “what we owe this country is a sacrifice for love, tolerance and total dedication.”
Recounting Adegunwa’s inspiring story of success, Shettima noted that, “the story of Baba is successful yet very motivational, that for every man that strives to succeed there is no way the doors would not be open.
“On our part, we shall continue to partner with well-meaning Nigerians to ensure that for everyone that sacrifices and strives to succeed despite the challenges we face as a nation, we shall leave no stone unturned in giving them all the support.
“I wish Dr Adegunwa a most meritorious and legacy-filled Chieftaincy. May your era bring bountiful peace, love, and progress to this beautiful land. Thank you and God bless,” he added.
In his remarks, Gov. Dapo Abiodun of Ogun, congratulated Dr Adegunwa, recounting his journey from a small photo studio to investments in banking, real estate, agriculture, and education.
“Today, Baba Dr Adegunwa is installed with the distinguished title of the Asiwaju of Ijebuland.
“I am confident that the new Asiwaju will bring his wealth of experience and personal attributes, courage and philanthropy to discharge his new role admirably to the Ijebu people.”
Also, the Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayọde Adetọna II, who conferred the Chieftaincy title, commended Dr Adegunwa and his wife for distinguishing themselves in character and their fields of endeavour.
He also applauded their contributions to the community’s economic well-being.
Oba Adetona, who has been on the throne for 64 years, said the palace had observed the Adegunwa with “joy and pride”.
“They exhibited uncanny and unblemished sagacity, honesty and integrity and uncommon development in Ijebuland”. (NAN)
In a rare and shocking manner, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has turned down a Freedom Of Information, FOl, reqeuest regarding employment status and alleged multi-million naira property acquisition by a staff of the company, Ms. Asabe Waziri.
In its reply, the company said the personal inflation of nuts staff is not discloseable.
NNPCL, through its counsel, Chief Afe Babalola, SAN, in its reply dated April 22, 2024 to an FOI request by Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria, HURIWA, said, “Accordingly, we regret our client’s inability to accede to your demand for the requested information. Our client, with this, outrightly rejects your request.”
In the FOI request, HURIWA had sought to know the following:
The current employment status of Ms. Waziri with NNPC Limited, including her position, department, and any relevant employment records, her salaries and benefits date of enlistment with any records indicating her length of service.
Other information sought by HURIWA include, acquisition of property: clarification on how Ms. Waziri, as a public servant, allegedly acquired two units of residential property (specifically, units 3B and 3C, Abbey Signature Apartments, 1 Mekong Close, Maitama Abuja FCT) valued at N260 million and the verification of the allegation that Ms. Waziri made a purchase of a prized housing asset in Lagos and information regarding any additional actions or disciplinary measures taken by NNPCL.
In its response, the company said, “Having reviewed your request, we invite you to please note that our client has ceased to be subject to the Freedom of Information Act 2011 (FOIA) following the coming into force of the Petroleum Industry Act 2021, by which the erstwhile Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (the Corporation), which was a public institution, transited to a limited liability company upon the registration of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) under the Companies and Allied Matters Act 2020. Thus, our client is not obligated to respond to demands for information under the FOIA. Be that as it may, our client highlights the following in the interest of due process and transparency: i. The information listed as items 1 to 4 are exempted from the application of the Freedom of Information Act, 2011. Section 14 (1)(b) of the Freedom of Information Act, 2011 reads: “…a public institution must deny an application for information that contains .ersonal in ormation and in ormation exem ted under this subsection includes – @) -ersonnel ‘les and 22 onal in ormation maintained with res .. ct to employees, appointees or elected officials of any public institution or applicants for such positions,”
“As information regarding the salaries, salary scale, benefits, benefits package, additional compensation from our client, date of enlistment position, department, acquisition of property, and any relevant employment records are employees‘ personal information in personnel files, our client must deny your request.
“Furthermore, information regarding any additional actions or disciplinary measures taken by our client concerning its staff is not disclosable under the Freedom of Information Act 2011. Please see Section 12 (1) (a) of the Freedom of Information Act 2011, which prohibits the release of information in relation to records compiled by the institution for administrative enforcement proceedings or internal matters. It provides that: “12. (1) A public institution may deny an application for any information which contains(a) Records compiled by any public institution for administrative enforcement proceedings and by any law enforcement or correctional agency for law enforcement purposes or for internal matters of a public institution…”
“As our client is not a party to the alleged suit(s) and dispute between Ms Waziri, Abbey Signature Limited, or any other person, it will not get involved in any matter(s) arising from or connected to the dispute.”
The Zango area of the Bwari Area Council Abuja went agog on Saturday as the daughter of Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of Newsdiaryonline was given out in marriage.
The wedding fatiha which was conducted at the Zango 2 Juma’at Mosque, Zango Bwari, Abuja was a holy matrimony of the groom Dr. Abdullahi Dantani Aliyu and the Bride Hauwa’u D. Umaru Mohammed.
The auspicious occasion was well attended by dignitaries from all works of life. They included the ex-Spokesperson, Nigerian Army ,Brig-Gen. Sani Usman, Director, Media and Publicity, National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) Mallam Ibrahim Sheme, Malam Kabir Sani, mni and Malam Baba Gusau mni.
Other dignitaries include Hakimi Mohammed Bawa, Alhaji Ibrahim Muhammed Mami, Alhaji Abdullahi Aliyu, Malam Ibrahim Saba, Malam Ndagi Khalil,Malam Ahmed Mohammed, Malam Mohammed Abubakar, Malam Kabir Dan Musa, Garkuwan Dan Musa, Malam Yerima, among others
Speaking to our Correspondent, Ex-Spokesperson of the Nigerian Army, Brig-Gen. Sani Usman (Rtd) expressed joy over the successful marriage ceremony. According to him, couple should learn to keep their affairs without allowing external interference, adding that peace is prerequisite to a peaceful home.
Brig Gen Sani Usman (rtd) said, “Mr Danlami Nmodu is my friend, my course mate and my brother, so we are happy.Marriage is good thing. I advice them(bride and groom) to live in peace and harmony, they should not allow a third party in their marital relationship.
“We bless them and pray that the Almighty Allah will bless their union,” he prayed for Dr Aliyu and Hauwa’u.
While speaking on behalf of the bride’s family, father of the day, Alhaji Umaru N. Mohammed said: “Today being the 27th day of April we gave out our daughter in marriage. Our appreciations go to those who have come to witness the Nikah and thank the Almighty Allah for granting us the opportunity for to give out our daughter successfully. May Allah bless the union and protect them.Ameen”
The groom, Dr. Aliyu Abdullahi, who expressed gratitude for the change of status, advised young Nigerians not to shy away from getting married because of marital responsibilities.
According to him, marriage comes with the blessings, benefits and equally challenges.
“Today means a lot, because this is a new chapter in my life, transitioning from a single life to a married life, which comes with a lot of challenges and responsibilities which by Allah’s grace and with the help and assistance of my family, I will be able to overcome ..these challenges.
“This comes with happiness and the challenges, of course. By the grace of Allah, I will be able to perform my duties,” he said.
Abdullahi pointed out that marriage is necessary as it encourages procreation and the continuity of human race.
“May be I will come at it from the perspective of a scientist because my first degree was on biochemistry, my terminal degree was biotechnology, and I have a Ph.D on biotechnology, so, from my scientific point of view humans have to procreate.
“You have to put yourself through challenges. There is this theory of “natural selection” survival of the fittest, I don’t want it to look too primitive but considering the religious perspective I think for both Christians and Muslims, those are the two predominant religions in Africa and in Nigeria, I think even Christianity and Islam enjoin marriage, and our parents married that is why they had us and their lives did not crumble…So, shying away is not going to solve anything.
“May be looking at the economic challenges we have right now, we can think, we can have solution mindset, not just complaining about the problems. In my own case, may be I was lucky in getting a scholarship, studying abroad, I was still going to make ends meet since I work here too. You have to look at what works for you, is it business? What are your talents? You have to find a way as a young person, you have to look for a way to sustain yourself, get something doing even if it is minute.
“Even if is a meagre earning, if it is consistent, it’s something, and from there you can start and then you look for someone compatible, someone who thinks like you, and you go from there,” he said.
Abdullahi also urged youths not to neglect the wisdom of the elderly people, but rather that they should tap from it in building a successful home.
“And then you also tap from the experience of the elderly people, you don’t want to think because this is the AI (Artificial intelligence) era, you don’t want to think that you are smarter than elderly people, you need to tap from their experience. So, by and large that is what assisted me to be honest,” he advised.
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike, has commended contractors handling different projects in Abuja for keeping to their promises to deliver the projects before May 29.
Wike gave the commendation after inspecting some of the ongoing projects across the capital territory on Saturday.
The minister recalled that he had promised the residents of Abuja that President Bola Tinubu would inaugurate a lot of projects to celebrate his one year in office.
“I am fully satisfied. This is a promise made and a promise kept.
“We went to the Southern Parkway, from Christian Centre to Ring Road I, being executed by Setraco. The project is almost 98 per cent completed.
“We have been to the Outer Southern Expressway from Villa Roundabout to Ring Road I, being executed CGC.
“You can agree with me that it is just the beauty. The landscape is wonderful, and the project is also 98 per cent completed.
“We went to the Vice President’s residence being executed by Julius Berger and the company has assured us that all the furniture and other facilities are ready, and they are doing finishing touches,” he said.
From the VP residence, the minister inspected the B6 and B12 road on Independence Avenue, being executed by Julius Berger and the company officials assured the minister that it would be for inauguration in May.
He equally inspected the N-20 Northern Parkway to Outer Northern Expressway in Jahi District, being executed by Gilmor.
The minister expressed satisfaction with the project, which he said was almost 99 per cent ready.
He equally expressed confidence that the overhead bridge projects at Wuye and the road projects at Guzape would also be ready for commissioning.
“I want to thank all the companies for keeping to their words. (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike, has commended contractors handling different projects in Abuja for keeping to their promises to deliver the projects before May 29. promised us that all these projects will be commissioned by May.
“I am very impressed. This is money spent well. The renewed hope agenda is alive,” the minister said.
He attributed the successes being recorded in less than a year to the full support of President Bola Tinubu.
He added, “We are doing all we can to complement Tinubu’s efforts for giving us all that we require to do our job. We are making sure that all the support is not in vain.” (NAN)
