Former Commissioner for Lands and Urban Development in Enugu State, Dr Victor Nnam, has called on Nigerian youths to exercise patience and allow the Federal Government time to address the country’s economic challenges.
Addressing Igbo youths on Saturday in Enugu, the ex-commissioner cautioned that the planned nationwide protest could be counterproductive and was not in the best interest of the nation.
He acknowledged the frustrations and hardships faced by many Nigerians due to the economic downturn, but stressed that meaningful change takes time and requires strategic planning and execution by the government.
“I understand the pain and suffering that many of our young people are experiencing. However, we must recognize that fixing the economy is a complex task that cannot be achieved overnight,” he stated.
Highlighting recent efforts by the Federal Government to stabilize the economy, the former commissioner noted that various policies and reforms were being implemented to spur growth and create jobs.
He urged youths to support the initiatives and give the government a fair chance to deliver on its promises.
“While protests are a democratic right and a way to express dissatisfaction, they often lead to unintended consequences such as violence, property damage, and further economic disruption. At this critical juncture, what we need is unity and constructive engagement, not actions that could destabilize our efforts to rebuild,” he added.
The senior lecturer also called on youth leaders and civil society organizations to channel their energies into dialogue and collaboration with the government.
“Let us come together to propose viable solutions and work hand in hand with our leaders to ensure a brighter future for all Nigerians,” he urged.
He emphasized the importance of patience and resilience, reminding the youth that economic recovery is a gradual process.
“We must remain hopeful and steadfast. The road to recovery may be long, but with collective effort and perseverance, we can overcome these challenges and achieve the prosperous Nigeria we all desire.”
National protest may be counterproductive – Enugu ex-commissioner, Nnam
National protest may be counterproductive – Enugu ex-commissioner, Nnam
NiMet predicts three-day thunderstorms, rains from Monday
The Nigerian Meteorological Agency has predicted thundery and rainy weather conditions from Monday to Wednesday across the country.
NiMet`s weather outlook released on Sunday in Abuja forecast morning thunderstorms on Monday over parts of Kebbi, Katsina, Borno, Bauchi and Taraba States.
The agency envisaged thunderstorms over parts of Zamfara, Taraba, Bauchi, and Kebbi states later in the day.
It anticipated moderate rains over parts of Nassarwa, Benue, the Federal Capital Territory and Niger during the morning periods.
“In the afternoon and evening hours, moderate thunderstorms with light rains are expected over parts of Niger, the Federal Capital Territory, Nassarawa, Kogi and Plateau States.
“Rains are expected over parts of Cross River and Akwa Ibom in the morning hours.
“Later in the day, light to moderate rains are expected over parts of Ebonyi, Imo, Abia, Anambra, Oyo, Ogun, Cross River, Rivers, Akwa Ibom and Delta,“ it said.
According to NiMet, A morning thunderstorms are expected over parts of Sokoto, Kebbi and Zamfara on Tuesday.
The agency forecast thunderstorms over parts of Bauchi, Taraba, Zamfara and Kebbi in the afternoon, and or evening hours and anticipated moderate rains over parts of Niger and Kwara States during the morning hours.
“Later in the day, moderate thunderstorms with rains are anticipated over parts of Plateau, Nassarawa, Benue and Kogi. Cloudy skies should prevail over the southern region during the morning hours.
“In the afternoon and or evening hours, intermittent rains are expected over parts of Ebonyi, Abia, Cross River and Akwa Ibom,“ it said.
The agency predicted thunderstorms over parts of Sokoto, Borno, Katsina, and Kebbi during the morning hours on Wednesday.
It envisaged thunderstorms over parts of Taraba, Kano, Kaduna and Zamfara later in the day with cloudy condition over the North central city during the morning hours.
It anticipated thunderstorms over the entire region as the day progressed with cloudy skies to prevail over the southern region within the morning periods.
“In the afternoon and or evening hours, moderate rains are envisaged over the entire region, strong winds may precede the rains in areas where thunderstorms are likely to occur, public should take adequate precaution.
“High likelihood of urban flooding in major cities due to heavy downpours. Residents are advised to avoid flood-prone areas. Adhere to safety advisories issued by relevant authorities.
“Residents are advised to stay informed through weather updates from NiMet. Visit our website www.nimet.gov.ng.,“ It said.
The agency urged the public and airline operators to get updated weather reports and forecasts from NiMet for effective planning in their operations.
NAN.
Barau Jibrin appeals to organisers to shelve planned protest
Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau Jibrin, 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.
Senator Barau, the First Deputy Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, said President Bola Tinubu is making genuine efforts to address the country’s challenges.
The promoters 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, the Deputy President of the Senate, 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 challenges facing the country for decades. Various interventions have been rolled out, and more are being conceived by this administration. 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 Commission bills into law by President Tinubu was one of the measures to address the challenges facing all parts of the country.
He drew the attention of the promoters of the protest to how what started as peaceful demonstrations in Syria, Yemen, Libya and Sudan turned bloody and took the countries backwards.
“Against this backdrop, I 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 to 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,” he said.
Barau Jibrin appeals to organisers to shelve planned protest
Twins, pairs battle for N100m as BBN Season 9 begins
Reality TV show, Big Brother Naija, has made its return with its ninth season themed “Dynamic Duo.”
The new season which premiered on Sunday promises to deliver 10 weeks of thrilling entertainment and unexpected twists.
The opening night was nothing short of spectacular, featuring an electrifying live show that introduced the audience to the housemates.
This season’s unique format saw contestants enter in pairs, starting with the couple Zion and Chinwe aka Zinwe.
Following them were friends Michky and Fairme David, known as the Radicals, and another duo of friends, DJ Flo and Ruthee, who goes by the name Flourish.
The fourth pair, a niece and her aunt, Chinne and Nne—dubbed Ndi Nne— also made their way into the house
The excitement continued with colleagues Topher and Sooj, known as Aces, followed by close friends, Shaun and Victoria, referred to as Shatoria.
The introduction of popular female DJs- Wanni and Handi further ramped up the energy in the house. Another set of twins, Tjay and Ben, known as Beta were the next to make it into the house.
The lineup also included friends Damilola and Toyosi, aka Tami; Anita and Nelly, known as Nelita; Ocee and Ozee aka Mbadiwe twins; Toby Forge and Mayor Frosh, who go by Streeze; married couple Kassia and Kellyrae, aka Double Kay; and finally, sisters Chizoba and Onyeka, known as Chekas.
Adding to the vibrant atmosphere was a stellar performance by Afrobeat queen Niniola Apata.
As housemates vie for a grand prize of N100 million—comprising N65 million in cash along with other enticing rewards—the stage is set for drama, alliances, and unforgettable moments in the Big Brother Naija house.
PDP accuses Edo police of bias, favouring APC ahead of governorship election
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State has accused the state police command of operating as an arm of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the September 21 governorship election approaches.
At a press conference in Benin on Sunday, Tony Aziegbemi, the state PDP chairman, expressed concern that the police’s actions could undermine the fairness of the upcoming election. He alleged that the police have shown partiality towards the opposition party.
“This is to express our concern over the police disposition to a level playing field for parties ahead of the September 21 governorship election in the state,” Aziegbemi said. “The party has witnessed instances in which the police acted in manners that suggest that they are a wing of the All Progressives Congress.”
Aziegbemi highlighted that the police’s actions and inactions at both the state and national levels seemed to favor petitions raised by the APC.
“The operatives’ actions and inactions at the state and national level in the wake of developments appeared to be that they are disposed only of petitions raised by the APC,” he added.
Read also: Lawyer urges NCC to probe telcos for restricting internet access, frustrating protest
He also noted recent incidents that support his claim, including the arrest of Rev. Olu Martins, Deputy Director of Media for the PDP Election Campaign Council. Martins was detained following a petition, later arraigned in court, and granted bail.
Aziegbemi compared this to the lack of action on a petition he submitted concerning threats made by the APC’s state chairman against Governor Godwin Obaseki.
“A video evidence of this threat and an accompanying petition was submitted to the Commissioner of Police in Edo State. Surprisingly, no action has been taken on the matter since the petition was submitted, unlike the swift manner in which the Police responded to the petition against Martins,” he said.
The PDP chairman also alleged that the police have deployed a tactical team to monitor and intimidate at least 22 PDP members and leaders.
In response, Edo State Commissioner of Police Funsho Adegboye stated that the cases have been transferred to Abuja. “Whatever observations or comments anybody has should be directed to Abuja,” he said.
The post PDP accuses Edo police of bias, favouring APC ahead of governorship election appeared first on Latest Nigeria News | Top Stories from TVN.
Group knocks PDP acting chairman Damagum over support for nationwide protest
The acting National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Ambassador Iliya Umar Damagum, has come under heavy criticism over his alleged support for the looming nationwide protests.
Reports had emerged that Damagum, in an interview on national TV, endorsed the planned protest coming up on August 1 to 10.
The PDP chieftain opined that the current administration led by President Bola Tinubu should not be kicking against peaceful demonstrations, stating that they staged “protests when they were in opposition, claiming things were not alright.”
He said: “Now, they are afraid of people protesting. But it’s the right of Nigerians to express themselves through peaceful protests. We, as Nigerians, must uphold this fundamental right.”
Reacting, a pro-democracy group, Conscience of Democracy in Nigeria, in a press conference in Abuja on Sunday called for the arrest of the PDP acting chairman, stating that Damagum’s outburst was “shocking” and “inciting.”
Adamu Kabir Matazu, who addressed journalists on behalf of the group, said: “We see Damagum’s support for the protest as a ploy to overthrow the government. We will not allow this to happen. We call on all Nigerians to stand against this attempt to destabilise our country.
“We wish to remind Damagum and those for whom he runs errands that the log is in their eyes. They should first look at what they contributed to the cost of living and economic crisis facing Nigeria today.”
Group knocks PDP acting chairman Damagum over support for nationwide protest
Oyo plans to renovate Obafemi Awolowo Stadium
Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, on Sunday, said the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium, Ibadan would wear a new look soon.
Makinde, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Suleiman Olanrewaju, appreciated President Bola Tinubu for giving approval to take over the stadium.
He said, “I want to thank President Tinubu for the approval given to the state to take over the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium, Ibadan formerly known as Liberty Stadium. The stadium would wear a new look soon.”
Makinde, who also commended the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes and all the leaders in Ibadanland for working towards the growth and development of the city, said his administration had been doing its best to uplift the state capital.
The governor added that as part of such efforts to uplift the city, he would inaugurate a committee to steer the planned upgrade of Ibadan Airport tomorrow (Monday) and that the government would break the ground for the project in about six weeks.
He reiterated that within 18 months, there will be a new Ibadan Airport that is of international standard, appreciating the president for approving the airport upgrade.
“I greet the members of the Ibadan Progressive Union, Omo Ajorosun, and other prominent Ibadan Social Clubs. I greet our religious leaders, Chief Imam of Ibadanland, and other important guests,” he added.
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from According.
Contact: [email protected]
Lawyer urges NCC to probe telcos for restricting internet access, frustrating protest
Human rights lawyer and member of the Lagos Judicial Panel of Inquiry into the outcome of the #EndSARS protest, Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa has urged the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to probe telecommunication operators’ alleged disconnection of subscribers.
According to a statement on Sunday, the Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) warned that telcos should not attempt to sabotage the forthcoming protest against economic hardship in Nigeria by restricting internet access among displeased citizens.
“For the past few days, some telecom companies have been disconnecting their subscribers for flimsy and untenable reasons. Some allege lack of NIN registration or linking while some didn’t give any reason at all,” Adegboruwa said.
“This action is coming on the heels of the proposed struggle of the people against hunger, poverty, suffering and the suffocating economic policies of the Tinubu administration.
“From all indications, it would seem that the underlying target of the telecom companies is to limit the reach of their customers in order to restrict access and thus frustrate the protests.”
The senior lawyer said the contract between telecom companies and their subscribers remains sacrosanct and should not be tampered with arbitrarily.
“Sufficient information and opportunity should be given for subscribers to remedy any alleged breach or error.
“So many telephone users deploy their numbers for their businesses and other lawful engagements, not to talk to those who may have medical and health-related emergencies.
“The NCC is urged to look into this and come to the rescue of the subscribers.”
By: Babajide Okeowo
The post Lawyer urges NCC to probe telcos for restricting internet access, frustrating protest appeared first on Latest Nigeria News | Top Stories from TVN.
NCC urged to ensure uninterrupted internet access during protest
Human rights lawyer, Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa, has called on the Nigerian Communications Commission to ensure uninterrupted internet access during the planned #EndBadGovernance protest.
This follows outrage on social media, with many Nigerians sharing their experiences and complaints on platform X that their SIM cards were barred despite completing the linking exercise.
The nationwide protest, scheduled to commence on August 1, aims to draw attention to the country’s economic woes and demand improved living conditions.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the Senior Advocate of Nigeria cautioned telecom companies against attempting to stifle the upcoming demonstration against economic hardship by limiting internet access for Nigerians.
Adegboruwa warned that any attempt to restrict internet connectivity would be seen as an attempt to sabotage the citizens’ right to free speech and assembly.
He emphasised the importance of ensuring uninterrupted internet access during the protest, allowing Nigerians to exercise their democratic rights without hindrance.
“For the past few days, some telecom companies have been disconnecting their subscribers for flimsy and untenable reasons.
“Some allege lack of NIN registration or linking, while others didn’t give any reason at all.
“This action is coming on the heels of the proposed struggle of the people against hunger, poverty, suffering, and the suffocating economic policies of the Tinubu administration,” the SAN said.
Adegboruwa emphasised that the contract between telecom companies and their subscribers remains sacrosanct and should not be tampered with arbitrarily.
He added, “Sufficient information and opportunity should be given for subscribers to remedy any alleged breach or error. So many telephone users deploy their numbers for their businesses and other lawful engagements, not to mention those who may have medical and health-related emergencies.
“The NCC is urged to look into this and come to the rescue of the subscribers.”
The human rights activist had notified security agencies, requesting protection for planned public meetings, rallies, and processions organised by the Take It Back Movement, its members, and other patriotic Nigerians and groups.
In a letter dated Friday, July 26, 2024, Adegboruwa, writing as solicitor to the Take It Back Movement, informed the Inspector General of Police and the Director of the Department of State Services that the planned rallies would commence from August 1 to 10, 2024, or any time thereafter.
He said the rallies would be held at the Eagle Square in Abuja and other public spaces in the capital cities of the 36 states and the headquarters of the 774 local government councils.
Ondo youths reject planned protest, say it’s politically motivated
A group, under the auspices of the platform Coalition of Akoko Youths for Good Governance, in Ondo State, has described the nationwide protest scheduled to take place across the country on August 1, as politically motivated.
The group which declared no interest in the planned protest said that President Bola Tinubu should be given enough time to reposition the country.
This was contained in a statement issued by the Secretary General of the group, Ayejuyo Tayo, a copy of which was made available to our correspondent on Sunday.
According to the group, which comprises youth leaders across the four local government areas in Akoko land, there was a need for Nigerians to exercise patience and give Tinubu a chance to turn around the fortune of Nigeria but some detractors of the present administration are behind the protest.
The statement read, “Rising from a meeting with our members and after careful deliberations, we have concluded that joining the protest would not be in the best interest of our organisation and the Akoko community and Ondo State in general because it is politically motivated.
“Instead of participating in the protest, we will continue to engage in constructive dialogue with our leaders and work towards building a better future for Akoko land. We believe in the power of youth-led initiatives and will focus on projects that promote education, economic empowerment, and good governance.
“In addition, the youths of Akoko do not want to be seen as an ungrateful set of people. The President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration appointed our son and brother, Hon. Bunmi Tunji Ojo, the starboy of this administration and his appointment has been a blessing to Nigerians within and outside the country with his initiatives to rejuvenate the Interior Ministry.”
The group urged Nigerians to continue praying for the prosperity of Nigeria, expressing optimism that the Tinubu administration meant well for the country.
“We urge all Akoko youths to shun the proposed national protest and work towards building a better future for ourselves and our community. We also plead with Nigerians to give President Bola Ahmed Tinubu enough time to turn around the economy of the country,” the statement pleaded.