A group, Change Nigeria Now (CNN) has called on Nigerian youths to join their counterparts in other parts of the country on August 1 for a peaceful protest to demand an end to bad governance in the country.
The group stated that its call for protest was not one for violence or chaos, but a patriotic move to “hold those in power accountable for their actions”….”made life unbearable for many”.
The CNN in a statement on Sunday signed by its convener, Comrade Muhammed Ishaq, said “after years of unfulfilled promises and wasteful spending of public funds, the patience of Nigerian citizens, particularly the youth, has finally worn thin. The mismanagement of the economy has resulted in untold hardships, and the long-suffering people are now ready to take a stand.
“Despite the misguided allocation of billions of Naira to fraudulent religious traders and fake youth groups that had previously hijacked the protest narrative on media, claiming to be organisers and now withdrawing their support just to discourage and intimidate others from participating, the Nigerian youths are now more determined than ever to rise up and demand change. The planned 1st August 2024 protests, dubbed the ‘Days of Rage,’ will go ahead as scheduled, with patriotic and responsible Nigerian youths leading the charge.
“On August 1st, 2024, patriotic and responsible Nigerian youths will converge nationwide to demand an end to the bad governance that has made life unbearable for many. This is not a call to violence or chaos, but a peaceful protest to reclaim our rights as citizens and hold those in power accountable for their actions”.
READ ALSO: #EndBadGovernance: Shettima urges Nigerians to shun planned protest
The group also lamented that Nigerian leaders over the past years have squandered public funds on frivolous ventures, neglecting the basic needs of the people. And that “the time has come to put an end to this culture of waste, corruption and nepotism”.
It also said, “this is not just about noise-making or mere expressions of discontent; it’s about demanding concrete actions that address the pressing issues affecting our nation. It’s about holding those in power accountable for their actions and ensuring that our collective efforts towards progress are not squandered.
“The lies and deceit perpetuated by self-serving groups and individuals will not deter us. We will not be swayed by empty promises or intimidated by threats. Our resolve is unwavering, and our determination to bring about positive change is unshakeable.
“We invite all Nigerians who share our desire for positive change to join us on this historic day. Together, we will rise up against bad governance and reclaim our right to a better life. We will make our voices heard, and we will not be silenced.
“Join us on August 1st, 2024, as we march peacefully to demand an end to the status quo and a better future for Nigeria. Together, we can make a difference and create a brighter future for ourselves and future generations”.
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August 1st protest: Nigerian youths must demand end to bad governance —Group
FG, US sign agreement to expand trade, investment partnership
The Federal Government and the United States of America have signed a Memorandum of Understanding on Commercial and Investment Partnership, marking a significant step in strengthening their economic ties.
The agreement was signed on the sidelines of the 2024 AGOA Forum held in Washington DC by the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Doris Uzoka-Anite, and the U.S. Secretary of Commerce, Gina Raimondo, a statement issued by the Ministry said on Sunday.
It said the MoU aims to deepen bilateral commercial and investment ties between both nations through collaboration to enhance the business environment and facilitate private sector-led trade and investment projects, among others.
The agreement focuses on key economic sectors including infrastructure, agriculture, sports and the digital and creative economy, as well as cross-cutting areas such as investment promotion and regulatory reforms.
It also establishes a framework for regular consultations at various levels, including business-to-government, government-to-government and business-to-business engagements.
In addition to the MoU, both countries agreed on new avenues of commercial cooperation and affirming shared priorities on the digital economy, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to enhancing bilateral economic relations.
The statement quoted the minister as saying, “This MOU marks a pivotal moment in Nigeria-U.S. economic relations. By focusing on critical sectors like infrastructure, agriculture, and the creative and digital economy, we are laying the groundwork for sustainable economic growth and job creation. This partnership underscores our commitment to nurturing an enabling environment for investment and trade, which is crucial for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic development agenda. We are particularly excited about the opportunities this presents for our fast-growing tech sector and the potential for knowledge transfer and innovation.”
On her part, the U.S. Secretary of Commerce emphasised the importance of the partnership, saying, “With the largest population and largest democracy in Africa, Nigeria is an essential partner for the United States.
“At the U.S. Department of Commerce, we are committed to working hand-in-hand with our Nigerian Government colleagues to foster deeper commercial cooperation that helps promote inclusive economic growth, fosters innovation and creates jobs in both our countries.”
The MoU establishes structures for cooperation, including ministerial co-chairs, technical co-chairs, and various levels of consultation involving both government and private sector stakeholders. It is set to remain operative for five years, with provisions for review and revision as needed.
This agreement represents a significant milestone in strengthening economic ties between Nigeria and the U.S., promising to usher in a new era of mutual prosperity and cooperation.
Also at the event, the Director-General, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria, Charles Odii, initiated discussions to secure investments and expand market opportunities for Nigerian small and medium enterprises.
He said the goal of the agency was to bridge the gap between Nigerian and U.S. small businesses, ensuring that AGOA’s opportunities are fully leveraged to foster growth, industrialization, job creation, and improved production quality for Nigerian SMEs.
He explained that the agency is collaborating with some organisations to ensure compliance with safety and regulatory standards and streamline the export process.
“We are diligently working to eliminate inefficiencies and barriers that hinder productivity in Nigeria’s SME sector,” the SMEDAN boss stated.
“As the Secretary of the National Council on SMEs, chaired by the Vice President and led at the state level by all state governors, we are collaborating with other government agencies involved in taxation, health and safety regulations, land access, and financing to create a conducive environment for growth,” Odii said.
CAN urges Tinubu to reduce fuel, food prices
The Niger State chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria has called on President Bola Tinubu to reduce the pump price of fuel and the rising cost of food in the markets.
This appeal comes ahead of the planned nationwide hunger protest scheduled to be held from August 1 to 10 by Nigerian youths.
The State CAN Chairman, Dr Bulus Yohanna, made the call on Sunday in his message to the Catholic faithful, also urging the youths to shelve the planned nationwide hunger protest, stating that protests and violence have never yielded positive results.
In his message titled, ‘Let Us Shun Protest and Violence’, the cleric said, “Christian faithful should not join the proposed nationwide protest, as genuine protests can easily be seized by hoodlums and selfish groups to cause enormous havoc on innocent citizens.
“Peace is an ongoing and dynamic process that demands perpetual attention and constant effort to attain and maintain. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu should, apart from the palliatives, work on price control for goods and services, address the rising cost of living, and then reduce the price of fuel.
“Let us take advantage of the farming season, especially now that the Farmer Governor is proactive and has prioritised the agriculture sector with the hope of feeding the nation.”
Yohanna, who is also the Catholic Bishop of Kontagora Diocese, called on bloc leaders, church leaders, local government coordinators, and parents to admonish their members and children to remember the book of Romans 13:1-3, which talks about Christians not rebelling against constituted authority.
“As you are aware, there are plans to stage a nationwide protest across the country, but as children of God and responsible people known for peace, I urge us all to shun the protest and speak to our children, wards, and members of our congregation.
“Other well-meaning Nigerians, including our youths, have declared that they won’t join the nationwide protest, and I want us to note that as a body, the Christian Association of Nigeria, Niger State, will not be part of the exercise but rather prefers to have peaceful dialogue and continue to pray for our nation.
“Peaceful protests with clear demands are good, but such could be hijacked by miscreants and be perceived as a security threat, which can lead to arrests and shootings, and we cannot afford to lose any of our children.
“There is no time that violence has led to positive results; rather, it has caused destruction, loss of lives, and setbacks. Genuine protests can easily be seized by hoodlums and selfish groups to cause enormous havoc on innocent citizens,” Yohanna said.
He further stated that “major stakeholders in Niger State have agreed not to join the protest, especially as the Farmer Governor, Umaru Mohammed Bago, has slashed the prices of grains and has promised to ameliorate the sufferings of the people.”
MTN, Airtel didn’t block lines because of protests — Buhari’s ex-aide Ahmad
Bashir Ahmad, a former media aide to ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, has claimed that telecommunications companies have not barred some lines because of the upcoming protests.
On Sunday, several social media users began to complain that their lines had been barred, especially by MTN and Airtel.
But in a post on X, Ahmad said a senior government official has informed him that they have no hand in the matter and that it is not linked to the planned protest for next week.
Ahmad wrote: “After my earlier tweet complaining about MTN blocking user lines, a senior government official reached out to me and clarified that the issue was not connected to the planned protest.
“The lines were actually blocked because the NIN details did not match the information submitted during SIM registration. Examples of such mismatches include discrepancies in names or dates of birth.
“He also told me that MTN and Airtel have sent out SMS notifications to the affected users, advising them to visit their offices or use the self-service portal to resubmit their NIN with the correct details. Please share the information so that it reaches more of the affected users.”
After my earlier tweet complaining about MTN blocking user lines, a senior government official reached out to me and clarified that the issue was not connected to the planned protest. The lines were actually blocked because the NIN details did not match the information submitted…
— Bashir Ahmad (@BashirAhmaad) July 28, 2024
MTN, Airtel didn’t block lines because of protests — Buhari’s ex-aide Ahmad
Police justify request for protest details, cite security concerns
The Nigeria Police Force has defended its request for details from organisers of the planned nationwide protests, explaining that the move is driven by security concerns.
On Friday, Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun directed protest organisers to provide their details, proposed routes, and assembly points to the Commissioners of Police in their respective states. This request has been met with resistance from the protest organisers, who accuse the IG of attempting to alter constitutional rights.
Deji Adeyanju, one of the organisers, argued that the IG’s request has no constitutional basis.
He said, “When the constitution was conferring the right to protest on the citizens, did the constitution give conditions for protests? Is the IG trying to rewrite the constitution? Is he trying to donate rights to the citizens or what? He has no such powers. The constitution and other laws of the land do not give the IG the power to dictate how citizens should protest.”
In response, Police Force spokesperson Olumuyiwa Adejobi issued a statement on Sunday, asserting that the request is a routine procedure intended to ensure effective communication, safeguard participants, and prevent unlawful activities.
Read also: Gunmen kill Police Inspector in Borno station attack
Adejobi stated, “The Nigeria Police Force hereby addresses the recent accusations made by one activist, Deji Adeyanju, and others via various fora, alleging that the IGP is attempting to rewrite the constitution by requesting the details of the organisers and leaders of the planned nationwide protests.”
He emphasized the importance of knowing who is planning the protests in each state to avoid potential threats to peace and stability.
Adejobi noted, “Allowing faceless groups to operate unchecked could jeopardise the peace and stability of the country, and leave us with pains, sorrows, and tears as experienced in the 2020 violent EndSARS protests. If organised labour and other recognised bodies were involved, it would have provided a more structured and safer environment for such public protests.”
He clarified that the IG’s request for protest details is a standard procedure meant to facilitate communication and maintain public safety.
Adejobi further affirmed that the IG “has never denied the constitutional right of every citizen to freedom of association and expression,” but stressed that the police are responsible for ensuring that protests do not threaten national security.
Adejobi added, “It is also vital for Deji Adeyanju to note that in the interest of defence, public safety, public order, public morality, or public health; or to protect the rights and freedom of other persons as enshrined in Section 45 (1) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, this request by the IGP is not out of place.”
He urged the activist and other organisers “not to mislead Nigerians” and called for collaborative efforts to ensure national security and public well-being.
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Abiodun condemns protest as counterproductive, outlines government efforts
Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has urged Nigerian youths to engage constructively with the government rather than participating in protests sponsored by politicians with ulterior motives.
The governor, speaking at the 22nd undergraduate and 13th postgraduate convocation ceremonies of Babcock University, Ilishan, Ikenne Local Government Area, said past protests have not yielded meaningful results and have instead led to losses in productivity, lives, and property.
He encouraged youths to work with the government to find solutions to Nigeria’s problems.
He said, “I seize this opportunity to appeal to our youths to constructively engage with the government in finding lasting solutions to Nigeria’s problems, rather than engaging in protest that may start peacefully but usually get hijacked and may lead to anarchy.
“What have we ever gained from protests, except losses in productivity? Loss of lives, loss of private and government properties, looting and vandalisation of assets,” he said.
He defended the administration’s decisions, such as removing subsidies and floating the Naira, as necessary to address the economic crisis.
“This government has only been in office for one year. Cutting the head is not the solution to a headache.
“Inflation is worldwide. Our president, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, had very few choices when he assumed office. He had to take the bull by the horns; he had to remove the subsidy. He had to float the Naira. Otherwise, it would have been worse, trust me,” he said.
The governor acknowledged the current economic challenges, including inflation, but emphasized that these issues are global and not unique to Nigeria.
“Ladies and gentlemen, this administration has initiated a lot of interventions to cushion the effect of the inflation. Recently, we’ve heard the announcement of the minimum wage. We’ve had a lot of empowerment. Student loans are being put in place. Agric and fertilizer inputs are being given to our farmers. They have provided Food items as palliatives and subsidised prices, amongst others.
“This current wave of inflation is biting everywhere. It is in the UK, US, Ghana, and Egypt. So, it is not peculiar to Nigeria alone.
“Which investor will be attracted to a nation that is under siege by protesters? Please, do not allow yourselves to be used by a so-called leaderless movement, sponsored by frustrated politicians who tried in the past and lost. We do not need protests. We must not gamble with our anarchy. Please Let us dialogue,” he said.
The president of the graduating class speaking urged his fellow graduates to take responsibility for their country’s future. He emphasized the importance of holding elected officials accountable and working together to build a better Nigeria.
He said, ” I want to charge us, The only way we can patch this country again is to be our brother’s keeper. There is no point in you acquiring wealth and stashing them outside the country when your fellow Nigerians are suffering.
“I am very happy that two of our governors are here. This country is always shouting the name of the president when they are in need. Nobody is talking about our governors.
“We must please query our governors, query our chairmen, we must ask questions. We voted for them, they are responsible to us and please don’t stand on the sideline, be a true Nigerian.
“When you elect someone to serve you, that person is not your leader, that person is supposed to be your servant. To make this country great, I plead with us, touch lives.”
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August 1 protest plot to massacre Igbos – Pro Biafra coalition
A coalition of pro-Biafra Groups, COPROBIG has claimed that the planned August 1-10th, 2024 hardship protest is a subtle plot to massacre Igbos.
The Coalition said this in a statement signed by Uche Madu of the Movement for the Actualization of the Sovereign State of Biafra and seven others on Sunday.
This is as the Coalition told Presidential Media Aide, Bayo Onanuga that blaming the Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party at the 2023 presidential election, Peter Obi and Ndigbo will not end the planned August 2024 hardship protest.
According to the group, the planned protest is a subtle plot to lure the youths of Ndigbo to their early graves.
The group said to avoid an alleged genocidal plot against Ndigbo through the planned protest, Igbos should go about their normal business within the period of the planned protest.
“To avoid the genocidal plot of the federal government that will result in massive killings of Biafrans involved in the coming nationwide protest, COPROBIG declared that there will be no sit-at-home in Biafra land during the weeklong national protest.
“That the cancellation of any public pro-Biafra activities will not give Nigeria security agencies the opportunity to kill the people of Biafra.
“That the planned weeklong national protest is a subtle plot to lure the youths of Ndigbo to their early graves.
“That the people of Biafra should go about their normal businesses of the day”, the Coalition said.
TVN recalls that a group known as the Take It Back Movement announced a planned Nationwide protest amid the rising cost of living and hardship in Nigeria.
TIB movement, through its solicitor, Adegboruwa Ebun-Olu wrote to the Nigeria Police Force and the Department of State Service seeking protection during the protest.
However, the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun had asked protesters to provide details as a condition to ensure protection.
In the last weeks, there have been calls for and counter for the planned protest.
President Ahmed Bola Tinubu, Governors, and Ministers had asked intended protesters to shelve their plan to hit the streets.
August 1 protest plot to massacre Igbos – Pro Biafra coalition
Hardship: Peter Obi, Otti back national protest
The Labour Party’s Presidential candidate in the 2023 Presidential election, Peter Obi and the Abia State Governor, Alex Otti have expressed their views about the planned hardship protests by Nigerians beginning on August 1st.
The two leaders who addressed the press after a breakfast meeting held at Otti’s country home in Nvosi, Isiala Ngwa South LGA on Sunday, said such protests must be done within the ambit of the law.
Governor Otti, while expressing worry that the protests may be hijacked by unpatriotic elements to create more problems than the reason for the protests, said ” We have seen protests hijacked. My fears are that this one will also be hijacked”.
He advised Abia people not to join the protests as according to him, it may turn out to be more hurtful than the reasons for the protests people are calling for.
“Even when you write a letter it is a protest. You can sit down and write a letter of protest, you can call somebody and register your displeasure about what he is doing or how he is running the government. They are all protests and are allowed. But when you now go outside the law and begin to unleash mayhem and violence that is where it is not acceptable”.
Governor Otti explained that those not involved in the protest are also entitled to their freedom as it would be against the law to deny them that.
The Abia Governor who agreed that there is hunger in the land occasioned by a bad economy, lamented that Nigerians are paying the price for bad governance that started many years ago.
Governor Otti emphasized the need for Nigeria to transition into a productive economy and import less of what we consume.
On his part, Mr Peter Obi said the planned protest was caused by hunger and hopelessness among Nigerians. “On the issue of protest, within the Nigerian constitutions, protest is allowed. All I plead for is for those who are protesting to do so within the law and in a civil manner that allows us as a nation to show that we live within the law”.
“Everybody knows that things are difficult and I always say that when they talk about the sponsors of protest, the sponsors are very simple, it is hunger, it is hopelessness among the youths. So, we all have to listen to what Nigerians are going through and I thank our Governor for doing so. It is critical and important”, Mr Obi asserted.
Mr Obi called on the security agencies to ensure that they manage the protests within the law and advised the government to engage with the protesters and dialogue with them towards addressing the reasons for the protests.
Hardship: Peter Obi, Otti back national protest
Gunmen kill Police Inspector in Borno station attack
Early on Sunday, July 28, 2024, unknown gunmen attacked the Jakana Police Station in Konduga Local Government Area of Borno State, resulting in the death of an unnamed Police Inspector.
“We recorded a foiled attack by unknown gunmen at the police base in Jakana town. The gunmen tried to infiltrate into the police parameters but the efforts of the Police Mobile Force attached to the police station in Jakana were able to repel the gunmen who attempted to overrun them.
However, we lost a male police inspector,” state Police Public Relations Officer Nahum Kenneth confirmed.
Read also: Kenneth Okonkwo leaves Labour Party, splits with Peter Obi
Kenneth indicated that it is too early to determine if the attackers were affiliated with Boko Haram, stating, “Right now, we can only classify them as gunmen because their anonymity is yet to be unravelled.”
In an earlier incident in February 2024, suspected Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters attacked the police station in Gajiram, Nganzai Local Government Area, killing four policemen and stealing ammunition.
According to a security source, the terrorists also set parts of the police station on fire during the attack.
The post Gunmen kill Police Inspector in Borno station attack appeared first on Latest Nigeria News | Top Stories from TVN.
Oshoala, Ajibade lead Falcons attack against Spain
Star striker, Asisat Oshoala has been named in the Super Falcons’ squad to face Spain in their second match in the Paris 2024 Women’s Olympic Football tournament.
The Falcons will hope to earn their first win at the Stade de la Beaujoire, Nantes, France on Sunday.
Here is the official lineup:
NIGERIA
16. Nnadozie (GK)
3. Ohale
5. Okeke
6. Okoronkwo
10. Ucheibe
7. Payne
8. Oshoala
13. Abiodun
15. Ajibade (C)
14. Demehin
2. Alozie
SPAIN
13. Coll (GK)
2. Batlle
4. Paredes
14. Alexandri
5. Hernandez
6. Bonmati
3. Abelleira
11. Putellas
17. Garcia
9. Paralluelo
8. Caldentey
The Falcons lost 1-0 to Brazil in their opening game, courtesy of Gabi Nunes’ spectacular goal after 38 minutes.
She dashed into the box before she let fly an unstoppable shot into the roof net.
Nigeria created some decent chances, however, their undoing was that they failed to put any away.
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