The Osi Balogun of Ibadanland, Lateef Gbadamosi Adebimpe, is dead.
TVN learnt that Adebimpe died on Wednesday.
He was one of the high chiefs in Ibadan who were promoted to the status of Oba.
The deceased, according to sources, was last seen in public on Friday, July 12, during the coronation of the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Akinloye Olakulehin, Ige Olakulehin I.
A source said he has been hospitalised since July 13.
TVN learnt that the deceased’s father, Oba Gbadamosi Akanbi Adebimpe, was the 35th Olubadan of Ibadanland.
Oba Adebimpe, who reigned for 18 months, was crowned on December 10, 1976, and joined his ancestors at the age of 85 on July 17, 1977.
BREAKING: Osi Balogun of Ibadanland Lateef Adebimpe dead
BREAKING: Osi Balogun of Ibadanland Lateef Adebimpe dead
Tinubu signs bills on establishment of commissions to drive development in North-West, South-East
President Bola Tinubu has signed into law bills to accelerate development in the country’s geopolitical zones.
The Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the President, Ajuri Ngelale, disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday in Abuja.
The bills are the North-West Development Commission (Establishment) Bill, 2024, and the South-East Development Commission (Establishment) Bill, 2023.
Ngelale said the North-West Development Commission was set up to facilitate the reconstruction of roads, houses, and business premises destroyed by multidimensional crisis.
The commission is also expected to tackle poverty, literacy level, ecological problems, and any other related environmental or development challenges in North-West states.
The spokesman added that the South-East Development Commission was established to ensure the reconstruction and rehabilitation of roads, houses and other infrastructural damages suffered by the zone.
It is also expected to tackle ecological problems and other related environmental or developmental challenges in South-East states.
“President Tinubu believes in building the nation on the fulcrum of fairness, equity, and unity.
“Hence, he is committed to ensuring equitable development, inclusive governance, and the provision of qualitative services to all Nigerians — no matter where they reside — while knitting even more tightly together the national fabric,” he stated.
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BREAKING: Nationwide protest: Nigerian governors meet in Abuja
Governors from the 36 states of the federation are currently meeting in the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Abuja.
The governors, under the aegis of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, are meeting at the NGF secretariat in the nation’s capital.
According to Channels TV, some of the governors started arriving at the meeting venue at about 8 pm on Wednesday.
Governors Lawal Dauda of Zamfara, Bala Mohammed of Bauchi, Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau, Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta, and Alex Otti of Abia States are already on ground.
This is as the governors of Enugu, Peter Mbah and Borno States, Babagana Zulum, sent their deputies to represent them.
The agenda of the meeting is currently not made public.
However, it may not be unconnected to the planned nationwide protests scheduled for August 1 to 10.
TVN recalls that the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, SGF, George Akume and the National Security Adviser, NSA, Nuhu Ribadu, had earlier met with ministers over the planned protest.
BREAKING: Nationwide protest: Nigerian governors meet in Abuja
Keyamo vows to prosecute contractors caught cutting corners
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo (SAN), has warned against substandard construction work, promising stringent measures against any contractor found cutting corners.
The minister made this statement at the groundbreaking of the African Aviation and Aerospace University’s permanent site in Abuja on Wednesday.
“If any contractor is found wanting in cutting corners, we will not only terminate the contract but also ensure prosecution,” Keyamo said.
The minister also said that graduates of AAAU would not face unemployment problem due to the high demand for aviation experts in Nigeria.
He disclosed this during the inaugural matriculation ceremony for 30 pioneer undergraduate students and 60 pioneer postgraduate students.
He noted that in pursuit of this mission, AAAU has been established as a centre of excellence, emphasizing cutting-edge research and innovation in its academic programs.
Noting the collaboration of the university with international aviation education experts, he also said that AAAU’s curriculum integrates theoretical knowledge with practical experience, tailored to local needs.
Keyamo told the students that a new Vice chancellor will be announced soon, subject to the approval of President Bola Tinubu.
“I am pleased to also state here that a new Vice-Chancellor will be announced soon, following the directive of Mr. President. You should be rest assured that this appointment shall mark a significant step in consolidating your achievements thus far,” he said.
The minister praised the symbiotic relationship between AAAU and Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau as a model of interagency collaboration.
“This site will house the construction of a Faculty of Aviation Management, two auditoriums with a collective seating capacity of 600, a School of Postgraduate Studies, a central library, and a research centre, among other key infrastructures.
“This was achievable with the approval of a take-off grant for capital projects by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu through TETFund,” the minister stated.
Keyamo emphasised the critical support from Tinubu, saying, “The unwavering support from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has been instrumental in bringing this vision to life. This initiative aligns perfectly with the Renewed Hope agenda of the current administration, particularly Agenda 4 of my 5-point agenda, which focuses on addressing the human resource gap in the aviation sector.”
He added that the first phase of development for the university will include several key structures, such as the Faculty of Aviation Management Building, the Postgraduate School Building, a 250-capacity auditorium, a 350-capacity auditorium, a research centre, a synoptic laboratory for meteorology, a multipurpose laboratory, and initial fencing covering 2 kilometres along with two ceremonial gatehouses.
“We are confident that these projects will be completed within 48 weeks, thanks to TETFund for making the grant 100% available and accessible,” he announced.
The minister also highlighted the university’s plans to partner with the private sector for additional developments, including hostels, a clinic, a conference centre, and a hotel, leveraging its proximity to the airport.
He credited Tinubu for overcoming numerous challenges and placing the university on its current path.
“It is a tale of transformation from tenant to landlord. What began as an academic odyssey in 2023, utilising facilities belonging to a sister agency, has now culminated in the acquisition of approximately 200 hectares of land as a permanent site,” he concluded.
Delta: Why we back out of proposed nationwide protest – NANS, non-indigenes, youths
Determined to sustain peace in Delta State, Nigerian students, non-indigenes and youths from Delta Central senatorial district, under the aegis of Urhobo Progress Union, Youth Wing, Worldwide, have backed out of the proposed nationwide protest over hardship in the country.
Wiska Monday, the president of the National Association of Delta State Students, NADESSTU, on Wednesday, in Asaba, said that the upcoming protest does not serve the best interests of students.
He urged all students to boycott the nationwide protest that is planned to take place on August 1, 2024.
According to him, while it is important to stand up for their rights and advocate for their concerns, with the level of security information at their disposal, the protest is going to be disruptive and could potentially harm academic progress.
“It may also lead to conflicts and unrest on campus, jeopardising our safety and well-being. The Delta State government has provided a conducive learning environment for our students and is investing more in infrastructure on campus and we don’t want any protest that is capable of destroying these infrastructures on campus,” Monday stated.
Similarly, a communiqué signed by Blessed Ughere, the national president of “Osu re Ighele,” also said that Urhobo youths would not be party to the proposed protest.
The communique read: “Given the current security challenges affecting Delta Central (Urhobo Nation) and Urhobos in other parts of Delta State, we firmly believe that engaging in protests now would be counterproductive.
“Therefore, we categorically state that we will not support any form of protest across Urhoboland in Delta State by any group or individuals.
“Engaging in such protests risks exacerbating the existing security challenges in the country, creating opportunities for criminal elements to exploit innocent citizens and instigate further chaos.
“We appeal to all concerned groups and individuals to refrain from organising any protests within any Urhobo kingdom in Delta State.
“We also urge all Urhobo sons and daughters, as well as residents in Urhoboland, to boycott the proposed protest.”
In the same vein, the leaders of the non-indigene community in the state, comprising Hausa-Fulani, Yoruba, Igbo, Idoma, Tiv, Edo and others, have distanced themselves from the protest.
This was disclosed at a press conference in Asaba.
In a communiqué read by Babatunde Ishmael, the non-indigene leaders said that after a careful review, the non-indigene community executive agreed that while there is actual economic hardship in the country, it is a global issue that responsible governments have been addressing.
According to the communiqué: “The non-indigene community Executive also believes that another round of protests after the last #EndSars protests will actually worsen the precarious economic and security situation being witnessed in the country.”
The 10-day nationwide protest is billed to start on August 1 across the country.
Delta: Why we back out of proposed nationwide protest – NANS, non-indigenes, youths
Army arrests 10 suspected terrorists, recovers ammunition in Taraba
The Nigerian Army, in conjunction with other security agencies, has apprehended 10 terrorism suspects and recovered an AK-47 rifle with 33 rounds of ammunition in multiple operations in Taraba State.
This follows a report made to the Army regarding the actions of a suspected criminal syndicate, including terrorists, mercenaries, and kidnappers, in the state.
This was disclosed in a statement on Wednesday, signed by the Acting Assistant Director of 6 Brigade, Army Public Relations, Oni Olubodunde.
The suspects were arrested for terrorism and kidnapping in Galeri and Kwondo villages of Ardo-Kola and Bali Local Government Areas of the state.
According to the statement, the operations occurred on July 22, 2024, following a tip-off, where the troops swiftly arrested two suspects named Ali Ibrahim and Wetti Ibrahim.
The statement noted that the suspects confessed to working with a terrorist leader named Kadogo Fun, who operates around the Bangalala and Kampani Zurak areas of Plateau State.
The statement partly read, “The suspects were Emmanuel Michael, aka Assay; Gabriel Samuel, aka Badoo; Fidelis Utuna; Edward Ochan; John Orhenbaga; Desmond Agbo; Thomas Ikyar; and Shafiu Shaibu, aka Odogwu.
“During preliminary investigations, it was revealed that the gang leader was part of Terwase Akwaza, aka Gana’s gang. Items recovered include 10 military camouflage uniforms, the sum of N60,000, and 30 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition after a search was conducted at one of the arrested suspects’ houses.
“The suspects are currently in custody and will be handed over to relevant authorities for further investigation and possible prosecution.”
Oni noted that the apprehension of the suspects and the recovery of the firearms is a testament to the effectiveness of a mutual relationship between the troops and the populace.
“The Brigade, therefore, appeals to the good people of Taraba State to continue supporting the security agencies in ensuring lasting peace and security in the state and ridding the entire state of criminal elements.
“Citizens are enjoined to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. Together, we can build a safer and more secure Taraba State,” Oni said.
State governors meet in Abuja
The Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, and Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed have arrived at the Nigeria Governors’ Forum Head Office in Abuja for the group’s meeting.
Other governors who have arrived at the meeting venue include Anambra State Governor, Professor Charles Soludo, Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori and Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang.
Under the leadership of the Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, the NGF is expected to address issues such as the anticipated nationwide protests, minimum wage, and local government autonomy, among other topics.
Recall that on July 11, the Supreme Court confirmed the financial independence of Nigeria’s 774 local governments.
In a unanimous decision by its seven-member panel, the Supreme Court upheld the federal government’s case to enhance the autonomy of local governments in the country.
On July 18, President Bola Tinubu approved a new minimum wage of N70,000 for Nigerian workers and committed to reviewing the national minimum wage law every three years.
As a result, on Tuesday, the Senate passed the 2024 National Minimum Wage Amendment Bill.
Also, several youth organisations are planning nationwide protests starting on August 1, 2024, in response to economic conditions, insecurity, and poor governance.
The 36 state governors, who have not met since these developments, are expected to discuss these issues extensively and state their position at the end of the meeting.
Tinubu calls for collaborative efforts to tackle insecurity
President Bola Tinubu has ordered the elimination of inter-agency rivalry among law enforcement agencies, stating that the insecurity in the country requires concerted efforts to curtail it.
The President, who was represented by the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, spoke during the inauguration of the Nigeria Police Force National Cybercrime Centre in Abuja on Wednesday.
He said, “The security situation in the country is a complex blend of threats posed by well-organised non-state actors.
Addressing it requires a concerted approach by all stakeholders within the security architecture. I, therefore, call for the elimination of inter-agency rivalries and urge law enforcement agencies to embrace a coordinated, collaborative approach.”
Tinubu assured that his administration would invest in the procurement of arms and weapons, among other measures, to ensure the police force is well-equipped.
He said, “In line with our policy objective of reforming the Nigeria Police Force, we are committed to investing further in the Nigeria Police Force through the procurement of sufficient arms, weapons and other critical equipment, as well as recruitment and continuous training to boost the number, quality and preparedness of our police personnel.”
Tinubu, who described cybercrime as a new frontier of offences, stated that the country was witnessing a rise in threats posed by cybercriminals.
He added that his administration is committed to curtailing all forms of criminality in the country.
He said, “This administration remains resolute in the fight against all forms of criminality. As an emerging and rapidly evolving category of offence, cybercrime is a new frontier in that battle. We are witnessing a rise in threats posed by cybercriminals, online financial fraudsters and cyber terrorists who use the internet to coordinate and carry out their destabilising and nefarious activities.
“It is impossible to overstate the size of this challenge. The rapid emergence of technologies, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the advent of 5G technology have all contributed to widening the scope and diversity of cyber-based threats.
Since 2020, Nigeria has witnessed an unprecedented surge in the use of social media to spread subversive messages and incite violence.”
Tinubu said the Federal Government had taken several policy decisions, including the review of the National Cybercrime Strategy, to mitigate the multifaceted threats posed by cybercrimes.
The President called for collaboration between the NCC and the Office of the National Security Adviser to ensure a greater level of scrutiny of online activities.
Speaking, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, said the NPF-NCC has achieved a lot of results within the short period of its operation. He stated, “The centre has proactively engaged in high-profile interventions addressing cybercrime-related infiltrations and attacks.
Some of these attacks were carried out on government and non-governmental agencies. Many of the suspects in these cases were arrested and prosecuted, while trials are still ongoing in some of the new cases recorded.”
Egbetokun also said 70 per cent of stolen funds and assets had been recovered by the centre.
Protests may have negative consequences – APC chieftain appeals to Nigerians
A chieftain of the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, Ambassador Abayomi Nurain Mumuni, has declared that the planned protest across the country may negatively affect the economy and other areas of human endeavour.
Mumuni made this declaration via a statement signed on his behalf by his media aide, Rasheed Abubakar, a copy of which was made available to TVN on Wednesday.
A protest over the scarcity of food and other necessities of life has been fixed for August 1.
Mumuni said in the statement: “Dialogue is key in this kind of situation. The people involved should be able to embrace dialogue since we don’t have another country to call ours apart from Nigeria. There should be negotiations between the government and the people involved.
“A peaceful and inclusive approach is key to addressing this problem. The protesters have a right to protest but it must be done in line with the laws of the land.
“Protest will affect the economy and other social structures. The economy will not be running at that time. This will also have an impact on other social structures in the country. Property may also be tampered with or vandalized during that time. We all knew what happened during the #EndSARS protest. Some people have yet to get over it up till now.
“It may escalate into violent clashes between the protesters and security forces, as well as between different groups of protesters with opposing views. So, I am appealing to our people to think twice and to shelve the plan. We don’t have any other place to go apart from Nigeria.”
Protests may have negative consequences – APC chieftain appeals to Nigerians
Atiku’s ex-spokesman visits Tinubu again, confirms switch to APC
Daniel Bwala, former spokesman for former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, paid a solidarity visit to President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday in Abuja.
Bwala, who spoke to State House correspondents at the end of the meeting, said he visited the president to show solidarity for what he was doing to address some concerns raised by Nigerians.
He said the planned protest against bad governance in the country to a large extent, had a political undertone.
Bwala had met President Tinubu at least four times since the latter assumed office on May 29 last year.
He said: “Because if you see some of the issues the people planning to protest are raising, they talk about hunger in the land, lack of transportation; minimum wage for the workers and Mr. President has taken good steps.
“He has agreed to a new minimum wage, which is now a law. We have seen the release of truckloads of food to the Nigerian people, and in the coming days, more are going to be done in that regard.
“Everybody in Nigeria acknowledges that there is suffering and the suffering did not start last year.
“There is no easy reform. Go to Brazil, or any part of the world, if you’re going to do reform, it is not going to be easy.
“It means that all of us will have to readjust. But the role of the government when initiating a reform is to bring about interventions, which is what the President is doing.”
He said the local government autonomy was a masterstroke because it had taken governance to the grassroots.
“So, I came to celebrate, encourage and show our solidarity and encourage the Nigerian people to rally round the President.
“We have only one President, and to me, patriotism is defending the leader, patriotism is showing support and ensuring that we push the development of this country.
“What is exciting for me in this entire situation is that the President has a firm grasp of what is going on in the country, the sufferings of the Nigerian people, and he has shown that concern,” the lawyer-turned-politician added.
Bwala said he had officially left the Peoples Democratic Party and decided to rejoin the All Progressives Congress (APC).
“So, yes, I’m on my way to APC and that is where I have always belonged.
“Remember, I had been in APC for eight years, from the days of President Buhari.
“I left because of differences but I’m back, and this time it is not about party, is about us coming together as a country to make sure that the country not only survives, that it is on a good trajectory.
“When that time for politics comes, those who are there will do. But I’m fully committed to President Bola Tinubu and in the coming days I will do my official re-entry to APC,” he concluded.
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