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Protests will hurt economy, says ex-Senate leader

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Protests will hurt economy, says ex-Senate leader

A former Senate Leader and governorship candidate of All Progressives Congress in Oyo State, Teslim Folarin, on Sunday, appealed to Nigerians to shelve their planned protests, saying “it will multiply our pains and hurt our economy.”

Folarin, in a statement signed and made available to According Online in Ibadan, the state capital, said the protests would only worsen the pains of Nigerians and further damage the country’s economy.

He said while the right to protest is enshrined in the Nigerian constitution, the proposed “Days of Rage” and “#EndBadGovernance” protests were likely to be hijacked by miscreants, turning them into another “#EndSARS” situation.

Folarin said, “No responsible government would want its citizens to suffer, and I dare say, that no government would fold its hands while the citizens’ livelihood and survival are being undermined.”

The former Senate Leader expressed concerns that the protests would hurt economic activities, send a negative signal about Nigeria’s democratic stability, and impact investors’ confidence.

He also warned that terrorists and criminal elements could take advantage of the protests to cause mayhem and destabilize the country.

He added, “There is no denying the fact that Nigerian masses are currently undergoing economic hardship due to economic reforms being undertaken by the government. The government has been honest in admitting the hardship. The government has also assured that what Nigerians are currently going through is the pain that precedes the relief.

“As a stakeholder in our body polity, I have significant doubts that the planned nationwide protest would achieve any tangible. The reason is simple– the proposed nationwide protest tagged #DaysofRage, #EndBadGovernance and others, is being championed by yet-to-be-identified individuals and/or civil society organisations. Besides, security agencies have informed of credible intelligence of plans to hijack the protests.

“Let me make it crystal clear, that the right to protest is enshrined in the Nigerian constitution and is a fundamental aspect of democracy, underscoring the public’s right to express discontent with government policies and actions. But can the country gamble on the protest not being hijacked by miscreants, thereby turning it into another #EndSARS?

“Replicating Kenya’s Gen Z protests in Nigeria is an ill wind that will blow Nigeria and Nigerians no good.

“My other area of concern is that the planned nationwide protest is already hurting economic activities. There is already panic buying and selling.”

Russia downs 39 Ukrainian drones

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Russia downs 39 Ukrainian drones

Russia on Monday said it had downed 39 drones fired by Ukraine overnight mainly targeting border regions.

“The anti-air defence systems intercepted and destroyed 19 drones in the Kursk region, nine above Belgorod, three over Voronezh and five over Bryansk,” all bordering Ukraine, the Russian defence ministry said on Telegram.

Three others were neutralised in the northwestern Leningrad region near Saint Petersburg in an “attempted terrorist attack”, it said.

Ukrainian drone attacks on Russian fuel depots, refineries and energy facilities are frequent, particularly in the border regions.

Russia has also launched massive attacks on Ukraine’s power plants, causing severe electricity shortages in recent months.

AFP

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August 1: Lead protest like Tinubu, Buhari – Presidency dares Peter Obi

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President Bola Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, has reacted to the decision of the 2023 Labour Party, LP, presidential candidate, Peter Obi to endorse the August 1 nationwide rally.
Onanuga said Obi should act like Tinubu and former President Muhammadu Buhari by coming out to openly lead the nationwide protest.
He challenged Obi to be at the forefront of the protest and helping to curb the possible excesses.
Posting on X, Onanuga wrote: “Now that Peter Obi has come out to endorse the planned protest by his supporters, he should do what President Tinubu and former President Buhari did in the past, by coming out openly to lead the protesters.
“That is what leadership is about. Not playing the master puppeteer behind the scene. He should be in the forefront of the protest and help in curbing their possible excesses.”
Omoyele Sowore, a popular activist had called for the nationwide protest on August 1 against Tinubu’s administration.
The protest is against the hunger and suffering Nigerians are currently experiencing under Tinubu’s administration.
Despite warnings by the Nigerian Government and some state governors, the organizers of the protest had vowed to ensure that it succeeds.
August 1: Lead protest like Tinubu, Buhari – Presidency dares Peter Obi

Minister urges students to remain on campus during nationwide protests

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Minister urges students to remain on campus during nationwide protests

The Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, on Monday, advised students in Nigerian universities to remain on campus during the planned nationwide protests to avoid risking their lives.

The minister, through the acting Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission, Chris Maiyaki, made this known in a letter addressed to Vice-Chancellors of universities.

Certain activists have organised a nationwide protest slated for August 1 to 10, 2024. The planned protest has gained traction on social media, trending under the hashtags ‘#EndBadGovernance,’ ‘#TinubuMustGo,’ and ‘#Revolution2024.’

The presidency and police authorities have called on youths to abandon the plan.

“The Honourable Minister of Education has directed that the attention of Vice-Chancellors of all Nigerian Universities be formally drawn to the plan by unknown groups to embark on nationwide 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 proactive 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 focus on their academic pursuits to avoid exposure to any potential danger during the planned protests.

“Please accept the renewed assurances of my highest considerations and best wishes.”

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Edo: Shaibu puts governorship ambition on hold, backs APC candidate

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The reinstated Deputy Governor of Edo State, Philip Shaibu, suspended his governorship ambition to support the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Senator Monday Okpebholo, in the September 21 election in the state.
Shaibu stated this at the Afemai World Congress in Detroit, Michigan, the United States on Sunday.
He accused Governor Godwin Obaseki of frustrating his governorship bid.
He expressed confidence that he would try again in the future, citing his youthful age as an advantage.
In a video clip made available by the congress organizers, Shaibu endorsed Okpebholo as a better candidate than Asue Ighodalo of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who is backed by Obaseki.
He described Okpebholo as “a breath of fresh air” who is “not contaminated yet” and praised his ability to “talk less and do more.”
Shaibu also called on the diaspora community to take an active interest in Nigerian politics, sharing his personal experience of being impeached and reinstated as deputy governor.
He attributed his political journey to God’s guidance and expressed hope for a better future for Edo State.
READ ALSO:Edo Deputy Gov Shaibu opens up on real reason for fallout with Obaseki
He said: “Elections are coming and I would like you to be interested. You see that I have moved from the PDP back to the APC. I moved to the PDP because of the governor (Obaseki) and I am back in the APC because of the governor.
“I wanted to become the governor and they said they would destroy me if I continued to nurse that ambition. They have done everything but God has kept me alive.
“I was impeached but I knew I would come to this programme as the deputy governor. I have been reinstated and my impeachment was part of intimidation and harassment, which I have gone through. We must begin to look for ways to salvage our country.
“I am supporting the APC candidate because he is a breath of fresh air and he is not contaminated yet. He doesn’t speak too much English. He talks less and does more and he is the first person to break the jinx in Edo Central by winning the Senate seat on the platform APC.
“The same scenario that made him a senator is playing out now. It is obvious that the grace of God is upon him. I have played my card, we are still young. If God says I will be governor, then I will be. I have left my ambition to God and we will make Afemai and Edo State, the land of our dream.”
By backing Okpebholo, Shaibu has effectively put his governorship ambition on hold, opting to support a candidate he believes has a better chance of winning the election.
This move has significant implications for the political landscape in Edo State as the governorship election approaches.
The post Edo: Shaibu puts governorship ambition on hold, backs APC candidate appeared first on Latest Nigeria News | Top Stories from TVN.

Telecom companies trying to impede protest by disconnecting subscribers – Adegboruwa

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A Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa, has claimed that elecommunications companies in the country could be trying to hinder the upcoming protest against economic hardship.
Adegboruwa in a statement on Sunday, said there were a lot of complaints about network restrictions as the date for the protest approaches.
Scheduled to begin on August 1, the demonstration aims to address issues of hunger, poverty, and dissatisfaction with current economic policies.
He noted, “In recent days, some telecom companies have been disconnecting subscribers for trivial or unexplained reasons.”
Adegboruwa also criticised the timing of these disconnections, suggesting that they are intended to limit the reach of protestors and frustrate the planned demonstration.
The SAN noted that telecom contracts are binding and that subscribers should be given adequate time and information to address any issues.
He urged the Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC. to investigate the matter and ensure that subscribers’ rights are protected.
Telecom companies trying to impede protest by disconnecting subscribers – Adegboruwa

BREAKING: Planned Protest: FG issues circular to VCs over protection of staff, students, infrastructures

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In view of the proposed national protest slated for August 1, the Federal Ministry of Education, has issued a circular to all Vice Chancellors of Nigerian Universities to guarantee the protection of staff, students and public infrastructures in their respective domain.
The circular issued through the National Universities Commission NUC, and signed by the Acting Executive Secretary, Dr Chris Maiyaki on Monday, morning acknowledged the right to protest but expressed fears about the potentials for violence.
The circular is titled: “Urgent Arrangements for the Security and Safety of University Staff, Students and Property During the Proposed Nationwide Protests”, emanated from the directive of the Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman
It reads, “the Minister of Education has directed that the attention of Vice- Chancellors of all Nigerian Universities be formally drawn to the plan by unknown groups to embark on nationwide 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 focus on their academic pursuits so as to avoid exposure to any potential danger during the planned protests.
“Please accept the renewed assurances of my highest considerations and best wishes”.
BREAKING: Planned Protest: FG issues circular to VCs over protection of staff, students, infrastructures

Dangote did right thing investing in Nigeria – Peter Obi

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The Labour Party, LP, 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, on Monday, said the founder of Dangote refinery, Aliko Dangote did the right thing investing in Nigeria.
Obi assured Dangote that he’s strong enough to overcome all the challenges confronting him.
Last week, Dangote had accused the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited of attempting to frustrate the functionality of his refinery.
Dangote said some of his friends had laughed at him for opting to site his refinery in Nigeria.
However, Obi informed Dangote that we are all created to serve humanity, adding that service may come with its attendant challenges.
Posting on X, Obi wrote: “Recently, the media was awash with a comment of disappointment credited to Alhaji Aliko Dangote, where he said that one of his wealthy friends who earlier discouraged him from investing in Nigeria, now mocks him, following the many challenges that have continued to contend with his business operations.
“My Dear Elder Brother, Alhaji Dangote, I want you to know that your friend is wrong. You did the right thing by investing in the productivity, growth, development and progress of our beloved nation, through your many business ventures, irrespective of the challenges and obstacles that now stand in your way.
“But God knows that you are strong enough to overcome the challenges and contribute to building a better humanity. I have lost more in my own life ever since I joined public service, which I would not have lost if I remained in the private sector.
“From all my savings from abroad which I brought back home, to the businesses I started in Nigeria which were either run aground or taken over by those entrusted with their management, I endured them all.
“Till today, I still face similar challenges where most times one is either being harassed by the government or the same system meant to protect you.
“But I believe that God kept us for this, and has empowered us to bring positive change and shine the light on the dark areas of
our nation.
“I encourage you to remain resilient in the face of the present challenges, not for material gains, but for the development and progress of the nation and a better humanity.”
Dangote did right thing investing in Nigeria – Peter Obi

Agbese Extends Birthday Felicitation to Elder Statesman, Chief Audu Ogbeh

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The Deputy Spokesman of the House of Representatives and esteemed member representing Ado, Ogbadibo, and Okpokwu Federal Constituency, Chief (Dr.) Philip Agbese, has extended his warm birthday felicitations to elder statesman and former Minister of Agriculture, Chief Audu Ogbeh, as he clocks 77.

A statement signed by the Deputy Spokesman of the House described Chief Ogbeh as a national figure who has sacrificed a lot for nation-building and national unity. The statement further elaborated on Chief Ogbeh’s dedication and service to the country, underscoring his pivotal role in various capacities over the decades. Chief Ogbeh’s tenure as the Minister of Agriculture, among other positions, has left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s agricultural policies and practices, contributing to the enhancement of food security and rural development. He is a fountain of knowledge, a reservoir of wisdom, and our library of Congress when it comes to modern politics, as captured in the statement.

Chief Ogbeh is not only recognized for his political acumen but also for his profound influence on the socioeconomic development of Nigeria. His contributions have spanned multiple sectors, demonstrating a commitment to the betterment of the country and its citizens. His efforts in fostering sustainable agricultural practices and advocating for rural development have earned him accolades and respect from various quarters.

Dr. Agbese expressed his gratitude to Chief Ogbeh for the fatherly guidance he has provided over the years. He acknowledged the mentorship and support that Chief Ogbeh has extended to him and many others, helping to shape the next generation of Nigerian leaders. Dr. Agbese emphasized that Chief Ogbeh’s wisdom and experience have been invaluable in navigating the complexities of governance and public service.

In his birthday message, Dr. Agbese continued to pray for divine health and protection over the life of Chief Ogbeh. He wished him many more years of active service and fulfilment, hoping that he would continue to be a source of inspiration and guidance to many. Dr. Agbese reiterated his commitment to uphold the values and principles that Chief Ogbeh embodies, pledging to continue working towards the betterment of their constituency and the nation at large.

We join the Enone Servant, Dr. Agbese, in wishing elder statesman Chief Audu Ogbeh a happy birthday. May his years ahead be filled with good health, joy, and continued success in all his endeavours.

Lawrence Oduh
Special Adviser on Media, Office of the House of Representatives.

28/07/2024

ETI Disowns Statement Against Reps Deputy Spokesperson Agbese, Accuses Ex-Members of Impersonation

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**Says sack of NNPCL, NMDPRA leadership long overdue

The Energy Transparency Initiative (ETI) has disowned a statement made by individuals claiming to be its representatives, criticizing Hon. Philip Agbese, the Deputy Spokesperson of the Federal House of Representatives.

The group’s President and Secretary, Francis Nedu and Ismaila Bello in a joint statement, revealed that the persons were expelled long ago due to fraudulent activities and other abuses that contravened the group’s objectives.

“We are shocked and dismayed that these individuals would continue to impersonate ETI and make statements that do not reflect our values and mission,” the statement read.

“Their actions are a clear attempt to blackmail and extort money from innocent parties, and we condemn their behaviour in the strongest terms.

“The leadership of ETI is aware that some government agencies have released as huge as $500,000 to the impostors to blackmail Hon. Philip Agbese and other National Assembly members who want sanity in the oil and gas sector.”

The statement expressed support for Hon. Agbese’s claims of deliberate attempts by the Nigerian Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) and Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) to discredit Dangote Refinery company.

The group said Agbese demonstrated exceptional leadership and courage in “exposing the truth” and applauded his efforts to protect Nigerian entrepreneurs and promote indigenous businesses.

“Agbese’s dedication to serving the people and upholding the principles of fairness and transparency is exemplary,” the statement added.

“He has shown that he is a true representative of the people, and his actions have earned him the respect and admiration of many. We are proud to support him and stand by him in this matter.

“NNPCL and NMDPRA have shown a clear bias towards International Oil Companies (IOCs) and have consistently frustrated the efforts of Nigerian entrepreneurs.

“Their actions are a disservice to the nation and undermine the government’s efforts to promote indigenous businesses.”

The ETI, therefore, expressed support for the House of Reps call for the Chief Executive Officer of NMDPRA, Farouk Ahmed to resign.

“Agbese’s reiteration of the House’s earlier call for the NMDPRA boss to be sacked is the position of many Nigerians who mean well for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” the statement said.

“We believe that the dismissal of the NNPC Group CEO Mele Kyari is long overdue as well. The ETI calls on President Tinubu to take immediate action to address this issue and ensure that these regulatory agencies serve the interests of the nation, not just a select few.”

ETI, however, said that it had taken legal action against the imposters and already involved law enforcement agencies to ensure that they were brought to justice.

“We will not tolerate any attempts to impersonate our organization or make false statements that damage our reputation,” the statement noted.

“We urge all stakeholders to remain vigilant and uphold the principles of fairness and transparency. We will continue to monitor developments and ensure that all actions and policies are aligned with the national interest, free from undue influence or partisan agendas.”