Niger Delta leader and Chairman, Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, Chief Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, has called on the organisers of the proposed nationwide protest to listen to well-meaning Nigerians’ call to stop the action.
Tompolo, while admitting to citizens’ right to protest, noted that the current hardship in the country did not start from the past year of the administration of President Bola Tinubu, adding that it was long in the making.
“I wish to add my voice to all well-meaning Nigerians, including our revered traditional rulers, on the call to shelve the proposed hardship protest billed to start on August 1, 2024.
“It is true that there is hunger and hardship in the country. However, it must be pointed out that hunger and hardship did not start today.
“President Tinubu is working hard to revamp the economy with well-thought-out policies and programmes in addressing the issues of the economy and security, which are the basis of other problems in the country.
“I am aware of Mr. President’s efforts to get things right in the country, and truly things are getting better. For instance, there has been a great improvement in the oil and gas sector in the last year, which is still the main source of our economy,” he said.
He said he was aware of the right of the citizenry to protest government policies and programmes in any country, stressing that it was one sure way for the citizens to participate effectively in governance, by checking the excesses of any government.
Tompolo urged the organizers to know that the timing is wrong, saying that the protest may cause more harm than good, as security reports have indicated that the protest will be hijacked by unscrupulous elements.
“Against this background, I have joined other Patriotic Nigerians to appeal to prospective protesters to call off the proposed protest and engage governments at all levels to find lasting solutions to the country’s problems. You must agree that the threat of protest only has achieved its aim, as Mr. President has said loud and clear, that he has heard the voices of prospective protesters,” he added.
Hardship: Shelve planned protest -Tompolo urges Nigerian youths
Hardship: Shelve planned protest -Tompolo urges Nigerian youths
Police deploy 4,200 policemen ahead of hunger protest in FCT
Ahead of the proposed nationwide protest, the Federal Capital Territory police command has deployed a total of 4,200 policemen across the nooks and crannies of the nation’s capital.
The command also announced the deployment of explosive ordinance device experts at various strategic locations.
The command in a statement on Friday by its spokesperson, Josephine Adeh, said the deployment was to ensure public safety, protection of protesters and to prevent the protests from being hijacked by non-state actors.
She added that there would be raids on identified black spots, uncompleted buildings/shanties, and stop and search operations among others in collaboration with sister security agencies.
Details later…
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RipplesMetrics: The economic reality of Nigeria’s N70,000 new minimum wage
Following the meeting between President Bola Tinubu and the leadership of the Nigerian Labour Congress, the federal government agreed with the union to increase Nigeria’s minimum wage to N70,000.
This is an increase of 133 per cent from N30,000 which has been operational since 2018. The president also promised to create a plan to assist the private sector and the sub-nationals to pay the minimum wage.
The bill for this new minimum wage was transmitted to the National Assembly which speedily passed through the first, second and third reading within hours. Aside from increasing the national minimum wage, the bill will also reduce the period for periodic review from five years to three years.
The backstory of minimum wage
On Monday, June 3rd, the NLC and the Trade Union Congress embarked on a nationwide strike to press for increment of the Nigerian minimum wage.
The union’s proposal was for the federal government to pay N615,000 as a new minimum wage, which is 1950 per cent higher than N30,000. However, several meetings between the unions, the federal government, and the National Assembly have continuously ended in deadlock.
RipplesMetrics analyzed that the minimum wage was reviewed about seven times between 1981 and 2024. However, findings showed that while there was an increase over the years, the wage decreased when compared on a global scale, especially to the dollar exchange market rate.
READ ALSO:RipplesMetrics… Fuel scarcity: How Nigerian govt subsidised cost of fuel in the two decades
Can N70,000 suffice now?
According to data published by the States Fiscal Transparency, Accountability, and Sustainability (SFTAS) Performance Assessment, there are about 858,668 civil servants in Nigeria. If each of these workers were paid a minimum wage of N70,000, the total wages paid in a month would amount to N60.107 billion.
On the dollar comparison, the N70,000 minimum wage is equivalent to $46.62, according to the CBN exchange rate of N1534.56/$1. This amount is lower than the dollar equivalent of the minimum wage between 2000 and 2018.
On an economic outlook, if an average Nigerian earns N70,000 monthly, he may use more than 90 per cent of his wages to feed in a month, assuming he has no other source of income.
Data from the National Bureau of Statistics shows that as of May 2024, Nigerians spend N1,041 to eat a healthy diet. This means that if a Nigerian were to eat twice a day for 30 days of a month, he would be spending N62,460 on feeding.
Also in transportation, the average fare paid by commuters for bus journeys within the city per drop is N976.08 as of May 2024. This can translate to spending N39,043 monthly if an average working Nigerian takes two buses to his work for 20 days a week. More than 50 per cent of his wages would have been exhausted on transportation.
However, while there are still rising trends in economic indices, as regards the inflation rate, dollar exchange, transportation and other socio-economic parameters, the minimum wage might become insufficient for an average Nigerian if these indices do not drop in subsequent months.
By: James Odunayo
The post RipplesMetrics: The economic reality of Nigeria’s N70,000 new minimum wage appeared first on Latest Nigeria News | Top Stories from TVN.
Corruption: Reps meet ICPC, CCB on operational framework
The House Representatives Committee on Anti-Corruption convened a meeting with the management of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) to discuss the operational framework in the fight against corruption in the country.
At the interactive session that took place at the National Assembly complex on Wednesday, the Chairman of the House Committee on Anti-Corruption, Kayode Moshood Akiolu, emphasized the purpose of the meeting: to identify gaps, challenges, and potential areas for legislative reforms to enhance the effectiveness of the anti-corruption agencies.
According to him, “Today’s meeting aims to foster an open dialogue and harness the wealth of experience and knowledge within this room. I hope this gathering will allow us to constructively discuss issues such as increasing transparency, streamlining reporting mechanisms, enhancing cooperation with other anti-corruption agencies, and exploring avenues for public engagement and awareness,”.
Akiolu stressed that the fight against corruption requires a collective effort from all stakeholders and assured that his committee would provide the necessary legislative support and oversight to strengthen the effectiveness of the ICPC and CCB in fulfilling their mandates.
The ICPC Chairman Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu, SAN, represented by the Director of Legal Services, Mr. Henry Emore, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to address the House Committee stressing that despite challenges and limitations, the ICPC remains resolute in upholding high standards of transparency, accountability, and justice in combating corruption.
The ICPC chairman stated that between June 2023 and June 2024, the Commission had filed 67 cases in court involving individuals and organizations implicated in corrupt practices.
He explained that these cases encompass a wide range of offenses, including bribery, embezzlement, and abuse of office, with 17 convictions secured to date, demonstrating their determination to hold corrupt individuals accountable but quick to inform the lawmakers that the few convictions by the Commission were due to the slow judiciary process in the country.
“We have also seized and forfeited assets worth billions of naira through rigorous investigation and legal proceedings. Additionally, the ICPC has recovered cash directly linked to corrupt activities. Over the past year, we have recovered N73,922,033,705.10 and $20,000, redirecting these sums to the national coffers.
These recoveries, the ICPC boss said, “not only restore stolen funds but also deter those who might consider engaging in corrupt practices, adding that these recoveries have been paid into the coffers of the Federal Government”.
Aliyu highlighted the challenges faced by the Commission, including limited resources and legal loopholes noting that the complexity and sophistication of modern corruption schemes necessitate continuous adaptation and technological innovation in investigative techniques.
The ICPC chairman assured that the ICPC was committed to enhancing its capabilities and processes to foster a culture of integrity and accountability across the nation.
The lawmakers and the ICPC management later engaged in a question-and-answer session on the operational activities of the Commission.
Corruption: Reps meet ICPC, CCB on operational framework
Iwuanyanwu’s death devastating – Ex-NBA President Agbakoba
A former President of the Nigerian Bar Association, NBA, Olisa Agbakoba, has described the death of President General, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, as devastating.
Agbakoba stated this in an interview with newsmen in Lagos on Friday.
TVN reports that Iwuanyanwu, also a politician, sports enthusiast, and media mogul, died on Thursday at the age of 82
Agbakoba said, “It was with shock I learned of the passing of the President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo worldwide.
“Iwuanyanwu was a great Nigerian all-rounder in politics, business, and media. He will be very well remembered for his role as President Ohanaeze. May his memory be a blessing.”
Agbakoba sympathized with friends and associates of Iwuanyanwu, the Imo State Government, and all Nigerians over the loss of the politician.
He, therefore, prayed to God to grant the soul of Iwuanyanwu peaceful repose, while asking God to grant his family the fortitude to bear the loss.
Iwuanyanwu’s death devastating – Ex-NBA President Agbakoba
N’Central youths pull out of planned nationwide protest
Over 60,000 youths under the aegis of the Arewa Integrity Group for Good Governance in the North Central region of the country have declined to participate in the planned nationwide protest slated for 1 August.
The Federal Government held a series of meetings with several youth groups to shelve the protests and give President Bola Tinubu’s administration more time to execute people-oriented programmes.
In a statement made available to journalists in Lafia, the Nasarawa State capital, on Friday, the group’s leader, Joseph Maiwada, said they decided to withdraw from the protest to give the Federal Government a chance to address the citizens’ needs and sustain the existing peace in the region and country.
He added that another reason for shelving the protest was due to the several appeals made to youth groups by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, who hails from the North Central region.
The statement reads in part, “The Secretary to the Government of the Federation has appealed to notable youth groups and some pressure groups around the North Central zone of the country, and he has reassured us of the government’s commitment to improving the welfare of the citizens.
“We are willing to pacify our people to back down from the protest because the SGF has always stood with us and supported our cause.
“So, we have mobilised over 60,000 members of the group to withdraw from the protest in order to ensure that we all continue to live in peace and unity in the country.”
Maiwada, therefore, advised other organisers of the nationwide protest to shelve their plans, adding that it would not benefit the nation, considering the negative effects of past protests on many citizens and their means of livelihood.
“Instead of embarking on the protest, I urge the youths to support the efforts of the federal government to address the socio-economic challenges facing the country,” the statement added.
Protest: Consider alternative means of expressing grievance – CAN tells Nigerians
Ahead of the nationwide protest slated for August 1, 2024, the leadership of the Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, has asked Nigerians to consider alternative means of expressing their grievances.
CAN, in a statement on Friday, said it deeply empathizes with the pain, anger and frustration that many Nigerians are experiencing.
However, in the statement signed by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, CAN noted that while peaceful protest is a constitutional right of citizens, experience has shown that the planned protest could be hijacked by hoodlums.
The statement reads, “As we navigate this period of crisis, it is imperative to uphold the constitutional rights of every Nigerian to peacefully protest and express their grievances.
“The right to assemble and voice discontent is a cornerstone of our democracy and must be protected and respected by all.
“Peaceful protests are a powerful tool for civic engagement, allowing the populace to communicate their concerns and hold leaders accountable. However, the anxiety related to the impending protests is heightening, especially given the volatile experiences in countries like Kenya and Pakistan.
“We must also draw from our recent history. The #ENDSARS and #RevolutionNow protests, though rooted in genuine grievances, were marred by tragic incidents where miscreants hijacked the process.
“This led to widespread looting, destruction of properties, and unfortunate loss of lives. These experiences have shown us that mass demonstrations can quickly degenerate into chaos if not properly managed and coordinated.
“In light of the planned protests scheduled to commence on 1st of August, CAN urges all Nigerians to consider alternative means of expressing their grievances.
“We recommend giving the government more time to address these pressing concerns. This period should be used to explore other legal avenues that will not easily give hoodlums the opportunity to hijack the exercise to destroy our national assets or endanger lives and properties.
“Dialogue, petitions, and town hall meetings are viable options that can yield positive results without the risk of disorder.
“We call on the government to cut the cost of governance and expedite its efforts to alleviate the hardships in the land. The opulent lifestyle of political office holders must be addressed to demonstrate the sincerity of those in government to improve the living conditions of the people.
“Likewise, it is imperative that the government implements the newly approved national minimum wage to provide immediate relief to struggling families.
“Furthermore, specific measures must be taken to put an end to kidnappings, banditry, and mass killings that have plagued various parts of our country. The security and well-being of every Nigerian should be paramount, and urgent action is required to restore peace and order.
“We also call on the government to expedite its efforts to alleviate the hardships in the land. There is an urgent need for more refined and effective policies that address the root causes of the economic challenges we face.
“The government must deepen its consultations with stakeholders, including religious leaders, to create a more inclusive and comprehensive approach to problem-solving. By working together, we can devise sustainable solutions that reflect the needs and aspirations of the people.
“In these trying times, let us all remember the words of our Lord Jesus Christ: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God” (Matthew 5:9). As we seek to bring about positive change, let us do so with a spirit of peace, love, and unity. Our strength lies in our ability to come together, support one another, and work collectively toward a better Nigeria.
“We pray for wisdom and discernment for our leaders, resilience and hope for our citizens, and divine intervention to guide us through these difficult times.”
Protest: Consider alternative means of expressing grievance – CAN tells Nigerians
Gaza: Senior Hamas leader dies in Israeli custody
A senior Hamas leader from the West Bank, Mustafa Muhammad Abu Ara, has died in Israeli custody.
Abu Ara’s death followed a severe decline in his health, according to an early Friday statement from the Palestinian Commission of Detainees Affairs.
Reuters reports that the 63-year-old who had been incarcerated at the Ramon jail in southern Israel, was transferred to a hospital where he later passed on.
“Prior to his arrest, he was grappling with severe health issues and required intensive medical care. However, since his arrest, Sheikh Abu Ara, like all detainees, has encountered unprecedented mistreatment… since the onset of the extermination war,” the statement read:
The Palestinian organization said the deceased was detained in October of the previous year, endured torture and was denied medical treatment.
Meanwhile, Israel has not yet responded to the allegations.
According to the Palestinian Prisoners Association, at least 18 Palestinians have died in Israeli custody since the start of the Gaza war on October 7.
Meanwhile, according to Israeli reports, Hamas-led attackers killed 1,200 people and taken over 250 captives. Approximately 120 hostages remain in captivity, with Israel estimating that a third of them may have died.
Gaza: Senior Hamas leader dies in Israeli custody
‘It won’t produce any result’ – Edo farmers reject planned nationwide protest
The Edo State chapter of All Farmers Association of Nigeria, AFAN, has distanced itself from the proposed planned protest against President Bola Tinubu’s administration, over the continued economic hardship in the country.
TVN reports that Alhaji Bako Dogwo, the state AFAN chairman, disclosed this during a meeting with members of the association in Benin City.
Dogwo said the association would not be part of the protest because some of its members lost property worth hundreds of millions of naira to the #EndSARS protest in the state.
He said as of the day, the members are still counting their losses as they were not compensated in spite of the recommendations of the panel set up by the government.
“We will stay away from it because protests have been going on for a long time in the country, and they have not produced any positive results.
“During the #EndSARS protest in 2020, AFAN members lost property worth several millions of naira. Their stores were broken into and property looted and destroyed.
“We are aware that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has sent a message appealing to Nigerians not to protest, that his government is doing a lot of things to address the economic hardship in the country.
“As a result of that we don’t want our members property and farms to be destroyed.
“The protesters can decide to go to our farm and destroy our crops. On that day we all will be going to our farms to prevent anybody invading the farms,” he said.
‘It won’t produce any result’ – Edo farmers reject planned nationwide protest
Don’t touch public assets – Adamawa NSCDC warns prospective protesters
The Adamawa State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, has warned would-be protesters to keep off critical national assets and infrastructure.
The State Commandant of the NSCDC, Ibrahim Mainasara, who said he has directed massive deployment of officers and men to ensure the safety and security of lives and property, stressed in a statement that looting would not be condoned.
“We will resist any attempt to disrupt public peace,” the commandant stated.
The statement, signed by the state command Public Relations Officer, DSC Nyako Baba, assured innocent residents of security, urging such people to shun the planned protest
“In collaboration with all sister security agencies, the NSCDC is committed to providing the necessary security for all law-abiding citizens of the state. We urge the youth to avoid participating in the planned protest and instead, explore peaceful means of making their voices heard,” the statement said.
It added that the NSCDC is dedicated to maintaining order and safeguarding the wellbeing of all communities.
Don’t touch public assets – Adamawa NSCDC warns prospective protesters