The Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, on Monday called for urgent action to prevent further collapse of the country’s country.
He was reacting to the latest rise in Nigeria’s headline inflation rate to 34.19 percent.
In a series of tweets on his official X platform, the former Anambra State governor expressed deep concern over the country’s economic trajectory since 2015.
He underlined the contrast between Nigeria’s economic performance in the early years of its return to democracy and its current state.
Obi wrote: “When Nigeria returned to democratic governance in 1999, it maintained an average GDP growth of about 6.72% for 16 years from 1999-2014.”
However, he pointed out that this growth was not sustained with Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth collapsing to 2.79% in 2015 and the economy slipping into recession in 2016.
He added: “In 2014, just before the inception of a new administration a year later, Nigeria had the biggest economy in Africa with a Gross Domestic Product of $568.5 billion and a GDP Per Capita of about $3,200.”
READ ALSO:‘Peter Obi will never be president in Nigeria’, Omokri vows
In contrast, he noted that by 2023, Nigeria had fallen to the 4th largest economy in Africa, with a GDP of $375 billion and a per capita of $1700.
Accordingly, the situation worsened in 2024, with the GDP further declining to an estimated $253 billion and per capita dropping to $1087.
This is according to data obtained from StatiSense, an AI data company specialising in financial report analysis, bank statement evaluation, and AI chatbot services.
Subsequently, the former governor raised alarm at the current state of affairs, saying, “Today, poverty is pervasive and on the increase. Unemployment is rising. Food inflation has skyrocketed to over 43%. Foreign and local investors are losing faith in the future growth of our economy and are leaving in large numbers. Businesses are shutting down.”
He then called for urgent action to prevent further economic collapse and move it from consumption to production.
“Urgent actions need to be taken to salvage the nation from further economic collapse and move it from consumption to production.
“However, instead of concerning ourselves with all these challenges threatening our collective existence and finding ways to recreate an inclusive and sustainable economy, pull millions of people out of poverty, and return our nearly 20 million out-of-school children to schools, our leaders are more concerned with funding their selfish luxuries and individual lavishness while throwing blames at others who are only committed to solving the nation’s problems.
“In the face of all these challenges, we the leaders should commit to inclusive and sustainable growth to end the hardship which has continued to burden our fellow Nigerians. Only through that can we achieve a peaceful and secure society, ‘” he noted.
By: Babajide Okeowo
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Peter Obi demands urgent action to prevent further collapse of Nigeria’s economy
Food security: Yobe gov warns against sabotage
Yobe State Governor, Mai Mala Buni has said his government will deal decisively with saboteurs whose intent is to frustrate commitments towards food sufficiency and food security in the state.
The governor handed down the warning during the launching of an agricultural empowerment scheme.
More than ₦19 billion was expended to procure farming inputs with about six thousand beneficiaries being targeted in the 178 political wards across the 17 council areas of the state.
Items distributed include: 100 Zoom Lion Tractors; 10 IMC Double Cabin 4 wheel drive vehicles for use by extension service workers; 200 motor cycles to extension service workers to boost agricultural extension services; 300 sets of Ox-drawn ploughs and 5,349 small ruminants (goats).
Others are: 1,349 hand push planters; 889 hand-push plough machines; 590 hand-push tiller machines; 4,202 solar-powered irrigation water pumps; improved assorted seeds and 72,000 bags of fertilizer, among others.
Buni stressed that government would deal ruthlessly with any official, individual or group who tests its will by sabotaging its efforts, noting that his administration has instituted some measures to check abuse and sale of the machines by the beneficiaries to avoid sabotaging the lofty goals of the intended agricultural revolution in the state.
“I hereby direct the security agencies to arrest and impound tractors and other machines crossing the border lines of the state, while such saboteurs are made to face the full wrath of the law,” he ordered.
Buni assured that the Agricultural Development Programme would be carefully monitored to ensure efficiency in service, effective maintenance and accountability in proceeds accruing from the hire of the tractors.
“The tractors are to be in custody of the State Agricultural Development Programme at the Headquarters in Damaturu and the zonal offices in Buni Yadi, Geidam, Gashua, Nguru and Potiskum, to be hired out to individuals and group farmers,” he said.
Food security: Yobe gov warns against sabotage
Appeal Court dismisses appeal filed by Danish convicted for killing wife, daughter
The Court of Appeal, Lagos, on Friday, dismissed the appeal filed by a Denmark national, Peter Nielsen, who was condemned to death for killing his Nigerian wife and daughter.
Nielsen was sentenced to death by hanging by the Lagos High Court on May 20, 2022, after he was found guilty of killing his wife Zainab aka Alizee, and their three-year-old daughter, Petra.
Justice Bolanle Okikiolu-Ighile found the 54-year-old guilty on counts one and two of murder preferred against him by the Lagos State government.
READ ALSO:Appeal Court dismisses Kyari’s move to quash drug charge
Nielsen, who was dissatisfied with his conviction, approached the appellate court to overturn it.
However, in Friday’s proceeding, the appeal court dismissed the appeal court for lack of merit.
The three-member panel held that the respondents (Lagos State government) proved its case against the appellant beyond a reasonable doubt.
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Protest: ‘Arrest Peter Obi, see what’ll happen’ – Charly Boy dares Tinubu’s govt
Maverick entertainer, Charles Oputa, popularly known as Charly Boy, has expressed anger over alleged plot to arrest the presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the last election, Peter Obi.
TVN recalls that the Peter Obi Media Reach, POMR, on Saturday alleged that the Presidency is plotting to arrest the former Anambra State Governor over the planned nationwide protest scheduled for August.
Bayo Onanuga, a presidential spokesman, had called out Peter Obi, alleging that his supporters are the organizers of the protest.
In response to the allegation, POMR, in a statement issued by its image maker, Yunusa Tanko, said it “can report from good and reliable authority that these unsubstantiated allegations are being orchestrated to arrest Obi“.
Reacting, Charly Boy, in a post on his official X handle, wondered why the Presidency is holding Obi responsible for the planned protest anchored on the hardship in the nation.
He dared the Presidency to arrest Obi and see the consequences.
He wrote in pidgin, “Abeg I wan understand something, so Nigerians – BAT supporters join – wan gather protest against Tinubu’s bad government and horrible tenure, but na Peter Obi dem wan hold accountable by arresting am? Okay na!!
“Let’s go! Make una try that arrest and see what will happen as una think say una dey untouchable therefore can do anything. We dey dey look and wait”.
Protest: ‘Arrest Peter Obi, see what’ll happen’ – Charly Boy dares Tinubu’s govt
Umobi resumes as Unizik Acting VC
The new Acting Vice Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Prof Carol Umobi, has assumed office.
Umobi took over in a smooth transition as he was handed over by the former Acting Vice Chancellor, Prof Joe Ikechebelu, who was last weekend removed by the Council of the university, led by Amb. Greg Mbadiwe.
The Special Adviser to the Vice Chancellor on Media, Dr Emma Ojukwu, who briefed journalists immediately after the handover, said Umobi will act for a non-renewable term of six months, and will not be a part of the contest for a substantive vice chancellor.
Ojukwu said: “I have been directed to brief you on happenings in the university. As you all know the Acting VC has taken office this morning. She is in the office now meeting with students of the university.
“You also know that Prof Joe Ikechebelu who was removed last Saturday was only directed to assume on temporary capacity, pending when the Council will appoint Acting VC and the Council has done so.
“Council has directed that Ikechebelu, who was Deputy VC Admin should oversee the university pending the appointment of an Acting VC.
“I must say that someone who is directed to oversee the university does not equate with the Acting Vice Chancellor.
“There are misrepresentation that there are two Acting Vice Chancellors in the university, but no one was appointed until now, and the recently constituted Council of the university has just been appointed and also taken over.
“The chairman of the council has just fulfilled its first assignment by picking an Acting Vice Chancellor.
“The Council said anyone who will contest to be substantive will not be acting so that everyone will get equal playing ground.
“ASUU advices that it will not be good for Ikechebelu to act, when he has interest in being a substantive. If Ikechebelu wishes to contest, he should know that the advert will be out soon and he can apply.”
TVN gathered that Ikechebelu has reverted to his previous position as Deputy Vice Chancellor, Administration, of the university.
Umobi resumes as Unizik Acting VC
World leaders eulogize Biden as he withdraws reelection bid
World leaders lined up to pay tribute to Joe Biden following his decision to drop out of the US presidential race.
TVN recalls that Biden announced his withdrawal from the 2024 race for another tenure as President on Sunday amid concerns over his age and health condition.
He, however, endorsed his Vice, Kamala Harris as the Democratic Party’s new nominee.
Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky appreciated Biden for taking bold steps in supporting his country, praising the US President’s tough but strong decision to end his reelection bid.
“He supported our country during the most dramatic moment in history, assisted us in preventing (Russian President Vladimir) Putin from occupying our country, and has continued to support us throughout this terrible war,” he said.
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk praised Biden for taking many difficult decisions, thanks to which Poland, America and the world are safer, and democracy stronger.
“I know you were driven by the same motivations when announcing your final decision. Probably the most difficult one in your life,” added Tusk, who served as the European Council President between 2014 and 2019.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said he respected Biden’s decision.
“I know that, as he has done throughout his remarkable career, he will have made his decision based on what he believes is best for the American people,” said Starmer.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz also paid tribute to “my friend”.
“Joe Biden has achieved a lot: for his country, for Europe, for the world,” he said. “His decision not to run again deserves respect.”
Israel’s Defence Minister Yoav Gallant thanked Biden for his unwavering support of Israel over the years.
He added: “Your steadfast backing, especially during the war, has been invaluable. We are grateful for your leadership and friendship.”
Japan’s premier said he recognised that Biden’s announcement is one “he feels is the best political decision he can make”.
“The Japan-US alliance is the cornerstone of our country’s diplomacy and security, so we will monitor the situation closely,” Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese thanked Biden “for your leadership and ongoing service”.
“The Australia-US alliance has never been stronger with our shared commitment to democratic values, international security, economic prosperity and climate action for this and future generations.”
New Zealand’s Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said Biden had “dedicated his life to public service, and that is something that deserves much respect”.
Venezuela’s President Nicolas Maduro told Biden “to be at ease with your conscience because you took the sensible and correct decision”.
“He prioritizes his family, his health and he realized at that age, with failing health, he couldn’t take the reins of his country, much less a presidential candidacy,” said Maduro, who is preparing for presidential polls this month.
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also thanked Biden for his years of service.
“He’s a great man, and everything he does is guided by his love for his country,” he said.
“As President, he is a partner to Canadians; and a true friend. To President Biden and the First Lady: thank you.”
Former President Barack Obama, with whom Biden served two terms as vice president, praised his record in office.
“Internationally, he restored America’s standing in the world, revitalized NATO, and mobilized the world to stand up against Russian aggression in Ukraine,” he said.
“While he had every right to run for reelection, Biden’s decision to drop out of the race was testament to his “love of country”, Obama added.
Meanwhile, Former President Donald Trump, the Republican nominee, wrote on his Truth Social network: “Crooked Joe Biden was not fit to run for President, and is certainly not fit to serve.”
World leaders eulogize Biden as he withdraws reelection bid
‘Fake news’ – Atiku’s aide rubbishes Omatseye’s convoy claims
Paul Ibe, the media aide to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, has poured cold water on claims by The Nation Newspaper columnist, Sam Omatseye, that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate maintains a large convoy even as an ordinary citizen.
Omatseye had in a video posted on his X handle on Sunday, said: “This is the Waziri of Adamawa, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, Ex VP. This is his convoy out of government. If he’s in government, what do you hope to see?*
“Meanwhile, Atiku is one of the people shouting loudest about cost of governance and the need to reduce same!”
*This is the Waziri of Adamawa, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, Ex VP. This is his convoy out of government. If he's in government, what do you hope to see?* Meanwhile, Atiku is one of the people shouting loudest about cost of governance and the need to reduce same! pic.twitter.com/JAJmuF0Ptz
— Sam Omatseye (@samomatseye) July 22, 2024
But in a response to the post on Monday, Ibe said the convoy was not that of Atiku as the former VP does not move about with a convoy and outriders.
READ ALSO:I did not betray Peter Obi, he was the one who betrayed Atiku —Okupe
He wrote: “The job of a journalist is to report the facts. But let’s be real, calling Sam Omatseye a journalist is like calling a clown a statesman.
“He’s just Tinubu’s personal megaphone. And no, this isn’t @atiku’s convoy. The former Vice President does not use outriders.”
The job of a journalist is to report the facts. But let’s be real, calling Sam Omatseye a journalist is like calling a clown a statesman. He's just Tinubu's personal megaphone. And no, this isn’t @atiku's convoy. The former Vice President does not use outriders.
— Paul Ibe (@omonlakiki) July 22, 2024
In another tweet, Ibe added:
“Is @samomatseye always this juvenile, or is today a special occasion? It’s almost comical how he keeps peddling fake news.
“But even if this were Atiku’s convoy, how does that magically excuse Tinubu’s breathtaking incompetence that’s brought our country to its knees?”
Is @samomatseye always this juvenile, or is today a special occasion? It’s almost comical how he keeps peddling fake news. But even if this were Atiku’s convoy, how does that magically excuse Tinubu’s breathtaking incompetence that’s brought our country to its knees?
— Paul Ibe (@omonlakiki) July 22, 2024
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Troops raid IPOB/ESN camps, neutralize two commanders in lmo, Abia
Troops of the Joint Task Force South-East, code-named ‘Operation UDO KA’, in conjunction with other security agencies, have raided camps of the Indigenous People of Biafara (IPOB) and its armed affiliate the Eastern Security Network (ESN) in Imo and Abia states.
The troops neutralised two IPOB/ESN commanders, recovered arms and ammunition as they raided camps of the separatist group in some communities in the two states.
The development was disclosed in a statement issued on Operation UDO KA’s social media platform on Monday.
The statement noted that the raids were in continuation of clearance operations to deter the activities of the IPOB and its armed affiliate the ESN within the South-East as well as neighbouring areas.
It noted that the troops, on July 20 2024, raided and cleared IPOB/ESN camps at Ezioha-Eziama village in Mbaitoli Local Government Area of Imo State.
The statement said the troops comprised of personnel of the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Navy, Nigerian Air Force, Nigerian Police, Department of State Service and the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps.
It noted that the troops confronted and raided the camp of notorious IPOB/ESN Commander, Lucio Agu (aka B44) in the forested valley between Umuaka, Ezioha and Awomama communities.
“During the firefight troops neutralised two IPOB/ESN Commanders known as Asari and Mazi; while others fled with different degrees of gunshot wounds.
“During the encounter, items recovered included; two AK 47 rifles with three magazines, quantity of 102 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, CCTV Cameras and assorted charms,” the statement said.
In the same vein, troops of Sector 3 of Operation UDO KA also destroyed IPOB/ESN Camp at Ezere Forest between Umuawa and Aku settlements that spans Okigwe and Ummuneochi LGAs of Imo and Abia states.
The statement said that during the encounter, and due to superior fire power, the separatists fled the camp into the nearby bushes with gunshots wounds.
According to the statement, items recovered include one General Purpose Machine (GPM) gun and assorted rounds of ammunition, four motorcycles and four radios.
It added: “Operation UDO KA is calling and appealing to the good people of South-East to continue to cooperate with security agencies by giving credible and timely information that will help to annihilate the criminals in the region.
“Please note that any relevant information should be passed to Operation UDO KA by dialling *193* and press *Option 2’* on your phone.
“The Joint Task Force South East, code-named Operation UDO KA will continue to carry out its constitutional roles of safeguarding lives and property in line with global best practice as laid down in the rules of engagement guiding its operations.”
Troops raid IPOB/ESN camps, neutralize two commanders in lmo, Abia
Count us out of proposed Ogoja State – Abi, Yakurr LGAs
The people of Abi and Yakurr local government areas, in Central Senatorial District of Cross River State, have dissociated themselves from the agitation for the creation of Ogoja State.
The people from the two LGAs, who formed a coalition called Abi-Yakurr Peoples Assembly, made their position known in a communiqué issued after a joint meeting and a visit to Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River.
The communiqué, signed by Dr Sam Eno, the Secretary of the Assembly, was made available to newsmen on Monday in Abuja.
The Assembly contended that the inclusion of Abi and Yakurr among the 11 local government areas proposed to the National Assembly to constitute Ogoja State was done in error.
They said they had earlier protested the inclusion of their local government areas in a letter written to Mr Kanu Agabi, SAN, a former Minister of Justice and Attorney-General of the Federation, who is the leader of Ogoja State Creation Forum.
The people noted that, while they were not opposed to the creation of the new Ogoja state, they preferred to remain within Cross River.
“The meeting affirmed the inherent right of the Abi and Yakurr People to decide their political allegiance. It was unequivocally agreed that the Abi and Yakurr people desire to remain within the Cross River State.
“The importance of the Abi and Yakurr Peoples remaining within Cross River State was underscored as a critical element of their collective identity and future prosperity.
“There was also unanimous support for the creation of Ogoja State. The meeting recognised that the creation of an additional state from the current Cross River State would likely foster significant economic development.
“However, it was emphasized that Abi and Yakurr would continue to be part of Cross River State,” the communiqué read in part.
On the visit to the governor, the Assembly said they presented a formal declaration of their unwavering resolve to remain an integral part of Cross River State, contingent upon the prospective creation of Ogoja State.
They said the governor, on his part, expressed support for the Abi-Yakurr people’s preference to remain within Cross River State, recognising the enduring cultural and historical connections that bind them.
The governor also briefed the Assembly on his strategic efforts to reclaim the 98 oil wells that were extricated from Cross River State, a move pivotal to the state’s economic revitalization.
Count us out of proposed Ogoja State – Abi, Yakurr LGAs
CrowdStrike: Microsoft reveals 8.5m Windows devices affected in global downtime
American technology company, Microsoft, has revealed that at least 8.5 million Windows devices were affected by the CrowdStrike outage.
The company’s Vice President in charge of enterprise and OS security, David Weston, disclosed this in a blogpost on Monday.
He added that the number represents less than 1 percent of Windows machines globally.
Although the number of impacted devices was relatively small, the damage was extensive and global, affecting banks, shops, brokerage firms, train networks, and other entities.
Airlines all across the world have paused flights over the incident.
He wrote: “While the percentage [of affected devices] was small, the broad economic and societal impacts reflect the use of CrowdStrike by enterprises that run many critical services.”
READ ALSO:Microsoft and Open AI face legal action over alleged copyright infringement
Reports revealed that global IT downtime was caused by a cybersecurity firm, CrowdStrike whose software is used by scores of industries around the world to protect against hackers and outside breaches.
Further information revealed that the problem appeared to result in crashes of machines running the Microsoft Windows operating system.
In an update shared on its X account on Friday, Microsoft 365 said that “multiple services are continuing to see improvements in availability as our mitigation actions progress.”
According to a Microsoft web page tracking the status of its services, “users may be unable to access various Microsoft 365 apps and services.”
The global IT downtime is also affecting apps including Microsoft Fabric, Teams, Purview, Defender, SharePoint, and OneNote.
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