The Deputy Senate President, Senator Jibrin Barau, has appealed to the organisers of the planned nationwide protest to reconsider their decision and shelve the idea so that the fragile peace in the country would not be disrupted.
Barau, who is also the first Deputy Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, said President Bola Tinubu is making genuine efforts to address the country’s challenges.
According Online reports that the organisers of the protest have scheduled a nationwide demonstration for Thursday, August 1.
In a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ismail Mudashir, Barau urged the promoters to give the government more time to implement lofty programmes and policies of the administration as captured in the Renewed Hope Agenda for the country’s socio-economic development.
He said that since the government was inaugurated on May 29, 2023, it has diligently worked hard to restore the country’s glory and return it to the path of progress and prosperity for the benefit of all.
“As we all know, one year is not enough to address the country’s challenges for decades. Various interventions have been rolled out, and this administration is conceiving more. Short, medium and long-term measures are being put in place to tackle the challenges that have been with us for decades,” he said.
He said the signing of the North West and South East Development Commissions bills into law by President Tinubu was one of the measures to address the challenges facing all parts of the country.
Barau drew the attention of the promoters of the protest of how what started as peaceful demonstrations in Syria, Yemen, Libya, and Sudan, turned bloody and took the countries backwards.
He added, “Against this backdrop, l urge everyone to reflect deeply on the problem and reconsider the idea of a protest. There is a risk that the protest could be hijacked.
“This is our country; we have no place to go other than the Federal Republic of Nigeria bequeathed on us by our forefathers. Exercise more patience and allow for more time. We will get it right. The efforts of the new Government will yield the desired results, by the grace of God.”
The Southern Kaduna Christian Leaders Association (SKCLA) has advised youths not to participate in the planned nationwide protest but to allow for the total healing of the land after suffering several attacks in recent times.
The Chairman of the Association and Vision Pioneer of Throneroom Trust Ministry, Kafanchan, Apostle Dr. Emmanuel Nuhu Kure, made this call on the sidelines of a special Thanksgiving service for elected and appointed officers from Southern Kaduna. The event, organized by the association in collaboration with the Christian Association of Nigeria, Southern Kaduna Zone, was held on Sunday in Kafanchan.
Kure explained that although the region, like other parts of the country, is also experiencing hunger and harsh economic realities, it is unwise to join protests that might be hijacked by adversaries seeking to create crises, which could jeopardize the healing process.
He appealed to the people to give the government more time to address the decay caused by past administrations, especially now that the current government at both the federal and state levels has begun offering hope and inclusivity through appointments and project execution.
Earlier, the Vice Chairman of SKCLA and Catholic Bishop of Kafanchan Diocese, Most Rev. Julius Yakubu Kundi, explained that the program, themed “The Hands of Thanksgiving and Prayer,” was deliberately organized to remind the elected and appointed officers of their significant moral responsibility to represent the people.
He said, “We invited you here today to pray for you and to chart a new path for uniting our people, aligning our goals, hopes, and aspirations with the objectives of modern-day politics in which you are already actively involved.
“We are concerned about the disunity among you, the political elites—a problem we consider scandalous and detrimental to the growth of our people. Our desire for this service of Thanksgiving is to bless and entrust you into the hands of God for divine direction on how to manage these differences among yourselves and within the political parties in Southern Kaduna.”
The Guest Speaker and ECWA President, Reverend Dr. Job Ayuba Bagat Mallam, urged the elected and appointed officers to be faithful in all they do, take their work seriously, and chart a new course for the people of Southern Kaduna to offer them a new lease on life.
Responding on behalf of the other elected and appointed officers, the Member representing Zango-Kataf/Jaba Constituency at the House of Representatives, Mr. Amos Gwamna Magaji, thanked SKCLA for organizing the Thanksgiving and prayer program, describing it as exceptional.
Magaji noted that the event has further strengthened their relationship as elected and appointed representatives from one zone. He used the occasion to appeal to the people of the area not to participate in the planned August 1 protest against the government, citing the potential for unpleasant consequences if the protest is hijacked by hoodlums.
Hardship: Southern Kaduna Christian leaders warn youths against joining protest
Barely three days to the planned nationwide protests, the Kwara State Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, Umar Mohammed, has issued a stern warning to those who may seek to exploit the protest for criminal activities and cause unrest in the state.
He issued the warning on Monday in a statement in Ilorin by the spokesman of the command Ayoola Michael Shola.
Umar disclosed that the command is on red alert, with robust measures in place to ensure law and order are upheld before, during, and after the protest.
He further stated that the command will not fold its hands and watch hoodlums wreak havoc, and vandalize critical national assets and infrastructure, as adequate deployment will be made across the state to ensure watertight security of life and property.
While acknowledging the citizens’ right to protest, commandant Umar, urged the youths and other concerned citizens to lawfully and peacefully express their grievances, ensuring that national security and public safety are not compromised.
He also encouraged law-abiding Kwarans to continue with their daily activities without fear, affirming that stringent measures have been employed to address the envisaged threat.
Nationwide protests: Kwara NSCDC warns youths to shun violence
The Big Brother Naija reality TV has returned with its ninth season themed “Dynamic Duo.” hosted by Ebuka Obi-Uchendu.
The new season, which started on Sunday, promises to deliver 10 weeks of thrilling entertainment and twists.
The opening night was spectacular, featuring an electrifying live show that introduced the audience to the housemates.
Here are the housemates and a few things you need to know about them.
1: Aces Meet Sooj and Topher, who have been friends for one year and are fashion enthusiasts. They met at a job interview and instantly connected over their shared sense of style.
Sooj, a 23-year-old communications specialist from Imo State, and Topher, a 24-year-old public relations analyst from Lagos State, are ready to bring their dynamic duo energy to the Big Brother house.
Topher
Their favourite quote is “We are so alike and also not so alike in a way.”
2: Beta
Get to know Ben and Tjay, who have been friends for six years and business partners.
Ben
They met on Instagram in 2018 and have been inseparable ever since. Ben, a 29-year-old club influencer from Delta State, and Tjay, a 33-year-old medical doctor from Ogun State, promise to bring fun, drama and laughs to the house.
Tjay
Quote: “We will bring dynamism and fun to the house. We will also bring drama and lots of laughs and fun to the house.”
3: Chekas
Chizoba
Meet Chizoba and Onyeka, sisters and best friends. Born and raised in Anambra State, they share an unbreakable bond. Chizoba, a 31-year-old software developer, and Onyeka, a 28-year-old lawyer and entrepreneur, are ready to showcase their sisterly love and strength in the Big Brother house.
Onyeka
Quote: “We are opposites, we have our differences and disagreements but that’s our greatest strength.”
4: DoubleKay
Say hello to KellyRae and KayXtra, a couple who have been together for over nine years.
Kassia
They met in 2015 and got married in February 2024. KellyRae, a 33-year-old professional singer from Delta State, and KayXtra, a 30-year-old entrepreneur from Delta State, promise to bring their love and chemistry to the Big Brother house.
Kellyrae
Quotes: KayXtra: “I believe there’s more to this beautiful face.” KellyRae: “I believe all people are gods on earth.”
5: Flourish
Meet DJ Flo and Rhuthee, long-term friends for 10 years. They met in a Ghanaian school and have been through thick and thin together.
DJ Flo
DJ Flo, a 27-year-old deejay from Imo State, and Rhuthee, a 32-year-old event planner and caterer from Akwa Ibom State, are ready to bring their fun-loving and chaotic friendship to the Big Brother house.
Rhuthee
Quote: “We’re the life of the party, the queens of chaos, and the musketeers ready to take on the Big Brother house!”
6: Mbadiwe Twins
Get to know Ocee and Ozee, identical twins who have been together since birth. They share an unbreakable bond and have achieved many things together.
Ocee
Ocee and Ozee, 37-year-old lawyers, entertainers, and entrepreneurs from Imo State, promise to bring their twin magic to the Big Brother house.
Ozee
Quote: “We are twins. The glue is divided into two. We’ve been stuck together since we were born.”
7: Ndi Nne
Meet Chinne and Mary, aunt and niece duo. They share a special bond that started when Mary was born in 2002.
Chinne
Chinne, a 31-year-old entrepreneur from Anambra State, and Mary, a 22-year-old entrepreneur from Anambra State, are ready to showcase their unique relationship in the Big Brother house.
Nne
Quote: “We understand what is needed to keep viewers glued to their screens”.
8: Nelita
Say hello to Anita and Queen Nelly, friends for nine years. They met at a beauty pageant audition in Owerri, Imo State, and have been inseparable ever since.
Anita
Anita, a 28-year-old specialist practitioner from Imo State, and Queen Nelly, a 29-year-old chef and entertainer from Abia State, promise to bring their risk-taking and spotlight-loving energy to the Big Brother house.
Nelly
Quote: “We’re the risk-takers this game needs. We’re not afraid of the spotlight, and we are ready to take on any social complexity.”
9: Radicals
Meet Fairme David and Michky, friends who met at the gym. They share a love for fitness and ‘Big ikebe’.
Fairme David
Fairme David, a 29-year-old professional dancer and content creator from Delta State, and Michky, a 24-year-old gym instructor from Edo State, are ready to bring their energetic and vibrant friendship to the Big Brother house.
Michky
Quote: “We’re the gym buddies turned brothers, ready to bring the energy, the dance moves, and the laughs to the Big Brother house!”
10: Shatoria
Get to know Victoria and Shaun, friends for over a year. They met in Dubai and shared a love for travel and nightlife.
Victoria
Victoria, a 25-year-old travel consultant and commercial model from Imo State, and Shaun, a 28-year-old entrepreneur, model, and actor from Edo State, promise to bring their adventurous and fun-loving energy to the Big Brother house.
Shaun
Quote: “We’ve been rock solid since that night in Dubai.”
11: Streeze
Meet Mayor and Toby, friends since 2022. They met through content creation and share a passion for creativity.
Mayor Frosh
Mayor, a 24-year-old media director/content creator from Oyo State, and Toby, a 27-year-old content creator and dance artiste from Ondo State, are ready to bring their dynamic duo energy to the Big Brother house.
Toby Forge
Quote: “We both have similar plans for the future, like travelling and conquering our spaces.”
12: Tami
Say hello to Damilola and Toyosi, best friends for eight years. They met at a Lagos TV event in 2016 and shared an unbreakable bond.
Damilola
Damilola, a 28-year-old nightlife PR manager from Osun State, and Toyosi, a 26-year-old beautician from Osun State, promise to bring their fun, drama, and realness to the Big Brother house.
Toyosi
Quote: “We’re the dynamic duo who bring the fun, the drama, and the realness. Get ready for a friendship like no other!”
13: Wanni x Handi
Meet Wanni and Handi, 27-year-old twin sisters and deejays from Kaduna State. Their unbreakable bond, fueled by passion and resilience, has been growing since they shared the same womb 27 years ago.
Handi
They’re ready to bring their vibrant energy, authenticity, and sisterly love to the Big Brother house, competing fiercely for the top prize.
Wanni
Quote: “We believe this year is our year to show the world what real entertainment looks like.”
14: Zinwe
Say hello to Chinwe and Zion, friends who have been dating for six months. Chinwe, a 30-year-old beauty and skincare entrepreneur from Imo State, and Zion, a 26-year-old model and fashion designer from Edo State, met at a friend’s bachelor party and instantly connected.
Chinwe
They’re confident, charismatic, and ready to take on the Big Brother challenge, seeking life-changing opportunities and showcasing their vibrant personalities.
Zion
Quote: “We’re the confident, charismatic couple this game needs. Bring on the challenges!”
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Anambra State Command, said it has deployed 1,190 officers and men ahead of the planned nationwide protest scheduled to begin on August 1.
The Anambra State Commandant of NSCDC, Maku Olatunde, stated this in Awka, the state capital, after a meeting with other service commanders in the state.
This was disclosed in a statement by the Head, Media and Tactical Operations, Okadigbo Edwin, on Monday.
Edwin said the command remains committed and unrelenting in maintaining law and order before, during, and after the planned protest.
According to him, the deployment is in line with a marching order given to it by the Commandant General, Dr Ahmed Audi, to stand firm as the lead agency statutorily responsible for protecting critical national assets and infrastructure.
The statement said, “While 350 personnel are for the anti sit-at-home order operations on Monday, 840 personnel are to resist all forms of violent protests and lawlessness, as well as prevent vandalism of critical national assets and infrastructure.
“In line with a marching order given to us by the Commandant General, Dr Ahmed Audi, to stand firm on our core mandate as the lead agency statutorily responsible for protecting critical national assets and infrastructure.
“The Command will not remain passive or indifferent in the face of violent activities that threaten to disrupt the peaceful co-existence of all Anambra residents or destroy our National Critical Assets & Infrastructure
“Instead, we will take proactive measures to prevent and counteract such actions, ensuring the safety and security of Anambra citizens and the protection of such critical assets.”
While acknowledging the rights of citizens to protest, the NSCDC, however, called on the organisers of the protest to operate within the ambit of the law.
“Individuals contemplating illegal acts during the protest, such as tampering with government assets or infrastructure will face severe legal consequences. The public is reminded that these actions are considered serious offences.
“Additionally, disrupting social and economic activities in the state, particularly at strategic facilities like airports and hospitals, and hindering essential service providers from carrying out their duties, is strictly prohibited.
“Those who ignore these warnings will be held accountable and face the full force of the law,” the statement added.
Nigeria’s leading beverage manufacturer, Seven Up Bottling Company, has launched a new consumer-centric TV commercial for its vibrant and award winning innovative energy drink brand, Supa Komando.
The commercial themed ‘Fire On Naija’, was unveiled during the Big Brother Naija season 9 premiere on Sunday, 28th July 2024 featuring OAP and hype man, Do2tun ‘The Energy Gad’, ex Big Brother Naija housemates, Neo, Cross, Saskay and Erica with a message of resilience to its Nigerian consumers.
Senior Brand Manager, Marketing, Seven Up Bottling Company, Yewande Ade-Alao, said the commercial highlights some of the daily challenges faced by consumers and how Supa Komando serves as a reliable companion during tough times. It is imperative that our communication continues to reinforce the message that Supa Komando inspires consumers to “Fire on” in their daily hustle.
“Every day, we all face challenges in our journey towards growth and success. When faced with overwhelming situations or daunting tasks, Supa Komando stands as a beacon of inspiration, motivating consumers to channel their inner strength, and achieve their goals,” Yewande explained.
The commercial portrayed various Supa Komando consumers, including a student, a production manager, a content creator, a skater and an entrepreneur, all feeling overwhelmed while dealing with varying challenges as they go about their daily hustle. The Supa Komando brand ambassadors act as motivational voices, encouraging them to “Fire On” till they succeed.
About Supa Komando Energy Drink:
Supa Komando Energy Drink is manufactured by Seven-Up Bottling Company (SBC), designed to empower individuals to conquer their goals and give them the energy to Fire On and seize the day. Supa Komando is committed to providing consumers with the energy they need to conquer their daily hustle.
The Honourable Minister of Education, Prof Tahir Mamman, has directed the vice chancellors of all Nigerian Universities to ensure the security and safety of staff and students.
This was made known in a statement signed by the Acting Executive Secretary National Universities Commission, Chris Maiyaki, on Monday.
According to the statement, students are mandated to remain on campus and focus on their academic pursuits so as to avoid exposure to any potential danger during the planned protests.
“The Federal Government is not unaware of the right of any Nigerian to peaceful protest, but is concerned about the safety of staff, students and university property should there be any protest action.
“Consequently, the Honourable Minister has directed that vice-chancellors of all Nigerian universities should take pro-active steps to ensure the security and safety of the university community, including staff and students.
“In addition, vice chancellors are to please issue specific statements to assure staff and students of their safety. It is also advisable that students remain on campus to please accept the renewed assurances of my highest considerations and best wishes,” the statement reads.
Protest: Minister urges students to remain on campus
French energy giant TotalEnergies said on Monday it was withdrawing from two offshore gas fields in South Africa as they did not appear economically viable.
A subsidiary of TotalEnergies owns a 45 per cent stake in a block off the country’s southern coast where the fields, Brulpadda and Luiperd, were discovered.
TotalEnergies said they could “not be turned into a commercial development as it appeared to be too challenging to economically develop and monetise these gas discoveries for the South African market.”
The block, spanning 19,000 square kilometres (7,335 square miles), is located 175km (109 miles) off the South African south coast.
Qatar Petroleum, which holds a 25 per cent interest in the block, also announced its intention to withdraw from the project, said Africa Energy Corp, a Canadian oil and gas exploration company with a 10 per cent stake through a subsidiary.
Another partner, CNR International which owns 20 per cent of the block, had announced its departure earlier in July.
Africa Energy Corp said it did not intend to withdraw from the project and noted that under a joint agreement, companies that pull out of the block would give up their stakes for free to those that stay.
The company said the gas fields were “the largest discoveries of natural gas resources in South Africa.”
It added, “If developed, it could supply a significant portion of the country’s energy needs as it seeks to transition away from coal-fired power plants.”
Environmental groups have opposed the project, warning that drilling in the deep waters would threaten the region’s biodiversity and fishermen.
The planned nationwide protest against the worsening economic conditions in Nigeria slated to begin on August 1 has triggered a series of reactions both domestically and internationally.
Security advisories issued by the United States, the United Kingdom and Canada underscored the growing concerns about potential unrest.
These advisories, citing past incidents, have warned foreign citizens to avoid areas where protests might occur and highlighted the fear of escalating violence and civil disturbances.
In the security advisory published on its website on Friday, the US Mission in Abuja advised Americans to avoid getting caught in the rallies.
The advisory counselled them to avoid crowds and demonstrations and monitor local media for updates.
It read: “According to media reports, nationwide protests may occur in Nigeria between July 29th and August 5th, 2024. Based on past occurrences, protests may involve roadblocks, checkpoints, traffic congestion and physical confrontations. No specific times or locations have been identified for potential protests at this time.
“Actions to take: Monitor local media for updates; avoid crowds, avoid demonstrations, be aware of your surroundings, review your personal security plans and keep your cell phone charged in case of emergency; carry proper identification.
“The consular sections of Embassy Abuja and Consulate General Lagos will remain open during regular business hours and consular services will be provided as scheduled.”
Similarly, the UK High Commission said the protests could occur between July 29 and August 10 in Abuja, Lagos and other large cities.
The advisory read: “Political rallies, protests and violent demonstrations can take place with little notice. Get advice on areas to avoid.
“Take care if you’re visiting crowded public places or attending events which attract large crowds. If you see a threatening or intimidating situation, do not try to make your way through it. Turn around and move to safety. READ ALSO:Lawyer urges NCC to probe telcos for restricting internet access, frustrating protest
“Incidents of inter-communal violence occur frequently and often without warning throughout Nigeria. Although foreign nationals are not normally targeted, there is a risk you could be caught in an attack. Monitor local government announcements and media reporting.”
The Canadian government equally alerted its citizens in Nigeria about the demonstrations, which it said could disrupt traffic and public transportation and “turn violent at any time.”
“Nationwide demonstrations are planned between July 29 to August 5, 2024. They could disrupt traffic and public transportation and could turn violent at any time.
“If you’re in Nigeria, expect a heightened security presence, remain vigilant at all times, avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place, follow the instructions of local authorities, monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstration.”
Domestically, the spectre of looting has cast a pall over the business community.
Traders in major cities have expressed concerns about the safety of their properties and have called for increased security measures.
The anticipated economic fallout from the protests is also a major worry as businesses brace for potential disruptions to supply chains and operations.
The government, on its part, is walking a tightrope.
While acknowledging the citizens’ right to protest, it is also under pressure to maintain law and order.
The recall of riot police to key locations is indicative of the security apparatus’s preparedness for potential confrontations.
A memo dated July 25, 2024 and signed by CSP Okon Moses directed the withdrawal of riot policemen ahead of the protest.
The message titled: “Notification of temporary withdrawal of personnel for national assignment,’ read, ‘’In view of the planned nationwide protest, it becomes imperative to temporarily withdraw some of the personnel attached to you in order to muster sufficient officers to dominate the public space.
“This is part of the proactive necessary measures to enhance the operational capacity/capability of the squadron and your understanding in the above regard is highly solicited.’’
The situation underscores the deep-seated economic challenges facing Nigeria. With the cost of living soaring and unemployment rising, public discontent is palpable.
The recent experience in Kenya where number of people had been killled in a similar protest by the citizens in East Africa’s biggest economy explained why many have called for restraint on the part of people behind the protests.
It nevertheless serves as an expression of discontent by the citizens and the government’s response would be crucial in determining if it would have a far-reaching effects on the country.
The post Looming protests cast shadow over Nigeria’s economy appeared first on Latest Nigeria News | Top Stories from TVN.
The Asiwaju Mandate Group has appealed to the people of Ondo State and its youths in particular to be more patient with President Bola Tinubu in his efforts at repositioning the country and making it our place of pride.
In a late Sunday statement signed by its Director General, Olumuyiwa Asagunla, the AMG expressed concern over what might be the outcome of the proposed nationwide protest scheduled to be held on August 1.
According to the group, how some unscrupulous individuals are promoting the protest for their gains and ulterior intentions is worrisome.
The statement made available to According Online read, “We strongly hold that the right to protest is that of every citizen of this country, and no one should attempt to subdue people’s voices whenever they choose to cry out about how they have been governed or misgoverned.
“We must also acknowledge that this our democracy as presently enjoyed was borne out of agitation and protests, and if there is any component of democracy that is germane, it is that of freedom.
“However, the trajectory of those and the records, over time, of those that seem to be promoting the protest with a political undertone is worrisome.
“At a time when we have not fully recovered from the woes of the EndSars, the looting, maiming, and destruction of public facilities that were replaced by common patrimony or lost forever, we can’t afford to have a repeat of such, and that is why the note of caution has been sounded to the ears of particularly the youths.”
The group noted that an uncoordinated protest without leadership is very dangerous, and youth should not allow themselves to be used by those who have ulterior motives again.
It pleaded with all youths of Ondo State and the nation at large to halt the planned protest, just as he advised the government to step up the engagement of critical stakeholders and be proactive on the policies of government aimed at making life more bearable for Nigerians.
Highlighting Tinubu’s efforts at solving the nation’s issues, AMG noted that “within a year of the President in office, he has given power back to the people with the landmark local government autonomy, through the Supreme Court judgment.
A review of the minimum wage to N70,000 and the introduction of a student loan scheme are some policies aimed at making life easier for Nigerians.
“Massive youth employment and promotion of personnel in correctional services, immigration and fire services, bother security, seamless application and collection of national passports, and other innovations brought by our national leader Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo to the Ministry of Interior show that there are brighter days ahead.
“We need to be patient with the Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led government to correct the misrule of the past years,” it read.
The group urged citizens to support the efforts of the president and his Renewed Hope Agenda to ensure the nation is rid of all forms of anti-people policies.
“Together we can birth a new nation with total and absolute support for President Tinubu to take back our country from those who have held us by the jugular over the years.
“We therefore strongly advise Nigerians not to embark on any protest for now because it will only create bad blood and it may take us back into the dark days,” AMG concluded.
Meanwhile, the socio-political group within the All Progressives Congress in Ondo State earlier on July 12 urged the National Assembly to come up with laws that could enable the Independent National Electoral Commission to conduct local government elections.
This is as the group commended Tinubu for his role in securing financial autonomy for LGs across the country.
