President Bola Tinubu on Monday met with his security chiefs, including paramilitary heads on Monday, where they reviewed the antecedents that have trailed the hunger protests in parts of the country in the last five days.
Tinubu had expressed dismay over the flying of the Russian flags by protesters, where he gave the military chiefs stern directives.
Recall that while the protest festered in some states, the Russian flag with Red, Blue and White colours was spotted in Kano, Plateau, Kaduna and Zamfara States.
The President is believed to have told the service chiefs that the trend was totally unacceptable and should be curtailed at all cost.
The meeting which lasted for about two hours also reviewed non state actors calling for a change in government, to which the security chiefs said the President has given them a stern directive to maintain peace and orderliness in the country.
According to the presidency and the military chiefs, the Russian flag carrying protesters have crossed the red line and will answer to it soon.
The Chief of Defence Staff, CDS, General Christopher Musa who led the Service Chiefs and other military and paramilitary heads to the meeting told State House reporters shortly after the meeting that the actions of the protesters characterised by looting and destruction of public properties justified why the federal government was against the protest from the onset.
General Musa labelled the protest as riot, saying, “we briefed Mr President on the situation on ground and we know that since the riot started all the security agencies you can see all of us together. Initially, when the riot started they said it was a peaceful riot but we have realised that there are individuals that are willing to take advantage of it to cause mayhem.
“We can see clearly what has happened since it commenced. Criminals have taken over, a lot of looting taking place, stealing and all sorts is happening.
“Besides, all of us have seen it, where foreign flags have been flown within the sovereignty of Nigeria, and that is totally unacceptable. We are warning in clear terms and the President has also said we should convey this, that we will not accept anybody, any individual flying any foreign flag in Nigeria.
“That is a treasonable offense, and it will be viewed and treated as such. So nobody should allow himself to be used by any individual.
“Also the issue of coups, Nigeria is a sovereign nation, Nigeria is a democratic nation all security agencies are here to defend democracy and ensure that democracy continues to strive. We will not accept anyone pushing or taking any action, seemingly or for whatever reason to want to push for any change of government.
“Democracy is what we stand for, democracy is what we will continue to defend. For those flying flags and if you notice a lot of them are kids being pushed to do that.
“We’re following up with those who are sponsoring them. Those that are pushing them because you know, the flags were also made. We have identified those areas and we are going to take serious action against that.
“The President is clear on his instructions for us not to accept anyone that wants to disrupt the peace and tranquility of Nigeria. And we are all standing here together to show Nigerians that we’re working closely, we are working together with synergy to ensure that there’s still peace and tranquility in Nigeria, that we have assured Mr. President”.
Reacting to an allegation that some military personnel partook in the looting in some states, General Musa said, “No. I think it has been cleared, I think it was also a misconception. They actually have seen those things and they wanted to clear them away from that area and that’s what was done.
“We have investigated thoroughly, the Chief of army Staff is here. we have investigated thoroughly and there is nothing like such no member of the Armed Forces fall into doing that. And he’s very clear.
“We’ve said that clearly that the military is going to step in when it is out of hand and you can see that for people supervising elements to push individuals to carry Russian flags in Nigeria, Nigeria sovereignty, that is crossing the red line and we will not accept that. And those ones who have done that will go in for the books and they want to be prosecuted”.
The meeting also had in attendance the Vice President Kashim Shettima, the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun among others.
Tinubu talks tough, vows to prosecute Russian flag sponsors in hunger protest
Tinubu talks tough, vows to prosecute Russian flag sponsors in hunger protest
Fubara signs Executive Order to establish investment promotion agency
The Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has signed an Executive Order to give impetus to the establishment of an investment agency.
The governor said the agency will coordinate the barrage of enquiries and business interests expressed by investors who now consider the state as a destination of first choice.
Fubara signed Executive Order No. 002 of 2024 for the establishment of the Rivers State Investment Promotion Agency when it was presented to him by the State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dagogo Iboroma, SAN, at the Executive Council Chambers of Government House in Port Harcourt on Monday.
He explained that what he had just do…
[3:32 PM, 8/5/2024] Makua According: Paris 2024: Top medalists so far as Olympics
As the 2024 Olympic Games continue, a group of exceptional athletes has emerged as the top medal winners so far, showcasing extraordinary performances across various disciplines.
Leading the pack, as of Monday, August 5, is France’s Leon Marchand, who has captured an impressive 4 gold, 0 silver, and 1 bronze medals, totalling 5 overall.
The United States has made a strong showing with several athletes in the top ranks. Torri Huske has matched Marchand’s medal count with 3 gold, 2 silver, and 0 bronze. Simone Biles, the gymnastics phenomenon, has secured 3 gold medals, solidifying her status as one of the great Olympians. Regan Smith has also excelled, earning 2 gold, 3 silver, and 0 bronze medals.
Australia’s swimming prowess is evident with Mollie O’Callaghan claiming 3 gold, 1 silver, and 1 bronze, while Kaylee McKeown and Ariarne Titmus have both secured impressive medal hauls.
Canada’s Summer McIntosh has made waves with 3 gold, 1 silver, and 0 bronze medals, demonstrating the nation’s strength in aquatic events.
Japan and South Korea have also left their mark on the games. Shinnosuke Oka of Japan has claimed 3 gold, 0 silver, and 1 bronze, while South Korea’s Kim Woojin and Lim Sihyeon have both secured 3 gold medals each.
The USA’s dominance in swimming continues with Kate Douglass, Gretchen Walsh, and the legendary Katie Ledecky all making significant contributions to the medal tally.
Rounding out the list is China’s Pan Zhanle, who has earned 2 gold, 1 silver, and 0 bronze medals, highlighting China’s competitive edge in the pool.
This is among many other athletes and sports personnel who have earned one or more medals.
BREAKING: EndBadGovernance: Nigerian Defence responds to call for coup, flying of Russian flag
The Nigerian Defence on Monday issued stern warning to citizens agitating for military rule in the country.
The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Mustapha who gave the warning while addressing journalists shortly after an emergency meeting with President Bola Tinubu, also said that those flying the Russian flag in Nigeria have committed a treasonable offence.
TVN reports that while some of the EndBadGovernance protesters were flying the Russian flag in some northern states, others were heard calling on the military to take over leadership via coup.
Responding to the moves by aggrieved Nigerians protesting against hunger and high cost of living, General Christopher vowed that the law would catch up with such people.
Specifically addressing the call for coup, Musa said the military had accepted democracy and regime change would never be allowed in Nigeria, warning those behind the call to desist.
“All of us have seen it where foreign flags have been flown within the sovereignty of Nigeria, and that is totally unacceptable. We are warning in clear terms and the President has also said we should convey this, that we will not accept anybody, any individual flying any foreign flag in Nigeria.
“That is a treasonable offence, and it will be viewed and treated as such. So nobody shall allow himself to be used by any individual.
“Also the issue of coups, Nigeria is a sovereign nation, Nigeria is a democratic nation all security agencies are here to defend democracy and ensure that democracy continues to strive.
“We will not accept anyone pushing or taking any action, seemingly or for whatever reason, to want to push for any change of government. Democracy is what we stand for, democracy is what will continue to defend”, he said.
BREAKING: EndBadGovernance: Nigerian Defence responds to call for coup, flying of Russian flag
Paris 2024: Top Olympics medalists so far
As the 2024 Olympic Games continue, a group of exceptional athletes has emerged as the top medal winners so far, showcasing extraordinary performances across various disciplines. Leading the pack, as of Monday, August 5, is France’s Leon Marchand, who has captured an impressive 4 gold, 0 silver, and 1 bronze medals, totalling 5 overall.
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IPOB demands referendum, declares Igbo prepared to leave Nigeria
The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has sharply criticized those behind the “IgboMustGo” campaign in the South-West geopolitical zone, insisting that it is time for a referendum to determine the Igbo’s exit from Nigeria.
IPOB expressed disdain for the South-Western authorities’ dismissive attitude toward the campaign and asserted that the Igbo people are firmly established and unfazed by such threats.
The group alleged that influential figures within the Lagos State and Federal governments are behind the “IgboMustGo” movement and cautioned Southerners to be wary of these actions in the South-West.
Emma Powerful, IPOB’s Director of Media and Publicity, said these in a statement on Monday.
The statement read: “Following the provocative and genocidal ‘IgboMustGo’ protest planned for August 20-30, 2024, by some anonymous Yoruba groups and individuals, the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) reminds these anti-Igbo groups that Ndigbo are ready to leave Yoruba land and Nigeria through a referendum. We will not be intimidated by any group or individual into leaving any state or region in Nigeria.
“It is laughable that Lagos State Governor Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu has been reported as condemning the ‘IgboMustGo’ protest. The governor’s condemnation is hypocritical, as he was the first to target Ndigbo with his biased demolition of their businesses and properties in Lagos State. There is a high likelihood that the ‘IgboMustGo’ proponents are supported by high-profile figures in both the Lagos State and Federal Governments.
Read also: Gov Fintiri blames Tinubu’s govt for hunger, poverty in Nigeria (Video)
“Despite this, Ndigbo remain unshaken. We are prepared for any opportunity to leave Nigeria whenever it arises. However, we prefer a peaceful and democratic exit to maintain good relations. If forced into a violent exit, it could lead to ongoing hostility.
“The Yoruba and their sponsors must understand that Ndigbo are undeterred by threats. Our decision to exit Nigeria is firm, and we reject any threats or genocidal agendas associated with the ‘IgboMustGo’ protest.
“Instead of threatening unconstitutionally and violently to expel Ndigbo from the Yoruba region, they should urge President Tinubu to release Mazi Nnamdi Kanu and organize a referendum for Ndigbo to choose between Biafra and Nigeria. We are ready to vote and leave Nigeria and the Yoruba region in peace. We are more determined to exit Nigeria now than we were in the 1960s.
“The ongoing ‘EndBadGovernance’ protests, organized by Yoruba and Fulani, are seen as attempts to lure Ndigbo into destruction. Ndigbo have learned from past experiences and chose not to participate in these protests to avoid being targeted. The risks faced by Ndigbo in Northern and Western regions if they had participated are clear. Ndigbo have always suffered from being the victims in Nigerian protests.
“Although Ndigbo face economic hardship due to Tinubu’s government, they have opted out of protests to avoid becoming targets. The conditions reminiscent of the genocidal war against Biafrans in 1967-1970 are reappearing. Ndigbo face threats from both Western and Northern regions.
“We urge Ndigbo in the North and West to return home quickly. No threats will deter IPOB from our mission to restore Biafra.
“We call on the international community to recognize the existential threat against Ndigbo in Nigeria. Human Rights Organizations, the United Nations (UN), European Union (EU), African Union (AU), and all advocates for freedom should note that Biafrans are endangered within Nigeria. The ethnic profiling and hatred against Ndigbo are evident in security, politics, and economics.
“Suppressing the call for a Biafra referendum is tantamount to supporting genocide against Ndigbo. Like our predecessors, we are committed to defending ourselves from those seeking to annihilate us. We are not concerned with the arrest of ‘IgboMustGo’ agitators, as they are mere tools for powerful figures in Yoruba land.
“We advise focusing on convincing President Tinubu to release Mazi Nnamdi Kanu and arrange a Biafra referendum. Threats to expel Ndigbo are a sign of weakness and cowardice. Ndigbo are ready to exit Yoruba land and Nigeria without delay.”
It will be recalled that the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu has condemned the call for Igbo people to leave Lagos and the South-West in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Gboyega Akosile.
The post IPOB demands referendum, declares Igbo prepared to leave Nigeria appeared first on Latest Nigeria News | Top Stories from TVN.
Protesters waving Russian flags committing treason
The Nigerian military said on Monday that individuals flying Russian flags during the nationwide protests are committing treason and will, therefore, be “prosecuted.”
It also announced that it is investigating those instigating this action and will “take serious action” against them.
“That is totally unacceptable… that is a treasonable offence, and it will be viewed and treated as such,” said the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, after a meeting of the National Security Council chaired by President Bola Tinubu at the Aso Rock Villa, Abuja, on Monday.
As Nigerians protested the high cost of living on Saturday, August 3, 2024, some protesters in Kano State were spotted flying what appeared to be the Russian flag. Viral photos and videos taken in the northern state showed demonstrators waving the Russian flag as they chanted in Hausa, “We don’t want bad government.”
On Monday, protesters in Kaduna were also seen waving the Russian flag and chanting in Hausa, “Welcome, Russia; Welcome, Russia.”
Russia, an Eastern power currently mired in a cold war with the West, has been blamed for several unconstitutional changes of government in West African countries such as Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso, among others.
The Defence Chief said, “For those of them flying flags, and if you see a lot of them, they are kids being pushed to do that. We’re following up with those who are sponsoring them. Those are pushing them because, you know, the flyers were also made. We have identified those areas, and we are going to take serious action against them.
“The President is clear in his instructions for us not to accept anyone who wants to disrupt the peace and tranquillity of Nigeria.”
“We are warning in clear terms, and the President has also said we should convey this: We will not accept anybody, any individual flying any foreign flag in Nigeria… So nobody should allow themselves to be used by any individual.”
BREAKING: Russia takes stand on use of its flag by Nigerian protesters
The Russian Embassy in Nigeria has denied any involvement with a group of protesters in northern Nigeria who were seen waving Russian flags.
TVN earlier reported that protesters in some parts of the country were seen marching on the streets, waving Russian flags and chanting slogans, while others held placards with various messages.
The Department of State Service, DSS, has also confirmed the arrest of a Kano tailor producing the ‘Russian flags.
The Service also said it arrested the suspect along with his sponsors.
However, the Embassy, in a statement, said that Russia does not interfere in the internal affairs of other countries, including Nigeria.
It said the actions of the protesters do not reflect any official Russian government policy or position.
The statement said, “The Embassy has noted the reports in Nigerian media and the circulation of videos and images in digital media depicting protesters in northern states of the country carrying Russian flags and chanting slogans to Russian President Vladimir Putin.
“The Government of the Russian Federation as well as any Russian officials are not involved in these activities and do not coordinate them in any way.
“As always, we emphasize that Russia does not interfere in the domestic affairs of foreign states, including Nigeria. These intentions of some protesters to wave Russian flags are personal choices of individuals, and they do not reflect any official position or policy of the Russian Government in the issue.
“We respect Nigerian democracy and believe that peaceful demonstrations in conformity with the Nigerian law are a manifestation of democracy. However, should these events lead to any disruptions or acts of violence we strictly condemn them.”
BREAKING: Russia takes stand on use of its flag by Nigerian protesters
Protest: DSS confirms arrest of Kano tailor producing ‘Russian flags’, sponsors
The Department of State Service, DSS, has confirmed the arrest of a Kano tailor allegedly producing ‘Russian flags.
The Service also said some of their sponsors were arrested while investigation is ongoing.
DSS confirmed the arrest in a post on its official X handle on Monday.
“The DSS can confirm that Adaramoye Michael (aka Michael Lenin) is not in its custody. Meanwhile, the Service has apprehended some tailors in Kano State responsible for making Russian flags being distributed in the area. Some of their sponsors have also been picked. Investigation is ongoing.”
TVN earlier reported the tailor alleged to be producing ‘Russian flags’ for protesters was arrested.
The development followed reports that protesters in Kano State had taken to the streets, waving Russian flags and calling for intervention from Russian President Vladimir Putin.
TVN learnt that they were seeking Putin’s intervention, suggesting their grievances are not being addressed by President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
The DSS can confirm that Adaramoye Michael (aka Michael Lenin) is not in its custody. Meanwhile, the Service has apprehended some tailors in Kano State responsible for making Russian flags being distributed in the area. Some of their sponsors have also been picked. Investigation…
— Department of State Services (DSS) (@OfficialDSSNG) August 5, 2024
Protest: DSS confirms arrest of Kano tailor producing ‘Russian flags’, sponsors
Stop meddling in our party affairs – Kogi SDP slams Gov Ododo
The Social Democratic Party, SDP, Kogi State has asked Governor Usman Ododo to stop meddling in the party’s internal affairs.
A statement by the Director of New Media and Spokesperson for the Muri/Sam Campaign Council-SDP, Isaiah Davies Ijele on Monday described the move as unacceptable and a blatant disregard for democratic principles.
Ijele alleged that the government is using the suspended Chairman and other unscrupulous members of the SDP to obstruct the submission of candidate names for the local government election, adding that it was a clear encroachment on party politics.
The SDP spokesperson cautioned the state government and judiciary against interfering in party affairs, emphasizing the importance of upholding the right of every party to manage its internal affairs independently.
He advised Governor Ododo to focus on governing the state and harnessing its natural resources rather than causing fracas in the SDP.
“Governor ODODO should be more concerned on how to govern the state and harness its natural resources while the time lasts than causing fracas in the SDP, Kogi state chapter,” Ijele said.
The SDP’s statement comes amid allegations of government interference in the party’s internal affairs, which has sparked concerns about the integrity of the electoral process in Kogi State.
Stop meddling in our party affairs – Kogi SDP slams Gov Ododo
Hunger protest: Tinubu’s address disconnected from people’s realities
The 2023 presidential candidate for the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has lamented the failure of the Federal Government to address the demands which fuelled the nationwide hunger protests, tagged #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria.
Obi stated this in a series of tweets on Monday, urging President Bola Tinubu to “distance himself from sycophants and surround himself with individuals who will present the unvarnished truth.”
There have been protests countrywide, calling on the FG to tackle issues ranging from the exorbitant cost of governance to corruption, the high cost of living in the country, fuel subsidies, among others.
The president had, in a national broadcast on Sunday, called for dialogue and an immediate end to the nationwide protests that have rocked the nation since Thursday.
He said his administration is ready to listen to and address the concerns of protesters, affirming that he has heard their calls “loud and clear.”
But protesters have continued their demonstrations in major cities, including Lagos, Abuja and Kaduna.
However, Obi noted that Tinubu’s address “regrettably appeared disconnected from the harsh realities faced by the people and failed to address critical issues that initially triggered the protest. It either reflects a lack of awareness among his advisers regarding the scale of anger, hunger, and hardship in the country, or a deliberate choice to disregard it.
“While the President’s speech focused on the past, the people are concerned with the present and the future. He should begin by addressing pressing issues such as the exorbitant cost of governance, measures to tackle corruption, the high cost of living, and directing resources effectively towards critical areas like health, education, and poverty alleviation.
“I respectfully reiterate that the President should declare a war on insecurity, the economy, poverty, unemployment, and the power sector.”
Obi advised that for the president to carry the people along with his administration’s economic development plans, he should hold “regular briefings, whether quarterly or biannually” as it’s done in other climes facing such challenges as Nigeria’s.
While the former Anambra State Governor commended the president for “finally addressing the people, albeit belatedly, which might have prevented the unnecessary loss of innocent lives, including those of our security agents,” Obi said the citizens don’t expect him (Tinubu) to solve the nation’s problems overnight.
He said, however, Tinubu’s expected to “address the mismanagement of public resources, reduce the high cost of governance, and tackle issues like insecurity,” among others.
Obi also urged the government to “identify criminal elements attempting to disrupt the protest through looting and other unlawful behaviours and to protect those genuinely exercising their democratic rights.”
In his tweets, the LP chieftain added that he deliberately delayed his response to the president’s speech “as I felt it could have been perceived as another attempt by Peter Obi to sway public opinion, especially since I was initially accused of sponsoring the protest.”