Chair of the National Republican Congressional Committee, NRCC, Richard Hudson, has described Joe Biden’s withdrawal from the 2024 US presidential race as “a scandal of historic proportions.”
Hudson wonders if Biden, who, according to him, was not mentally fit to campaign, can remain as the President.
“If the president is mentally unfit to campaign, he is mentally unfit to have the nuclear codes,” he said on X.
“Judgment day is coming in November.”
TVN reported on Sunday that President Biden announced his withdrawal from the United States November presidential election.
Biden took the decision following mounting pressure from his Democratic colleagues on Capitol Hill, top donors and Hollywood stars after a disastrous debate performance last month.
Increasing number of Democrat lawmakers had publicly called for Biden to step aside.
US presidency: Resign now, you’re unfit to have nuclear code – Richard Hudson to Biden
US presidency: Resign now, you’re unfit to have nuclear code – Richard Hudson to Biden
Top 10 stories from across Nigerian Newspapers, Monday, July 22, 2024
Here are the top 10 stories making headlines across the country
1. Reps threaten sanctions against oil firms over $60bn cash calls probe
The House of Representatives Joint Committee on Finance and Petroleum Resources (Upstream) has issued a stern warning threatening punitive measures against oil companies that refuse to cooperate with the ongoing investigation into the alleged $60 billion inflated cash calls under the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited’s Joint Venture Agreements.Read more
2. Utomi blasts presidential aide, Onanuga, over mass protest allegations
Former presidential aspirant and political economist, Prof. Pat Utomi, has blasted Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, following allegations that he (Utomi) was one of the organizers of the planned nationwide protest scheduled to begin on August 1st.Read more
3. N70k minimum wage can only buy a bag of rice —Ndume
The senator representing Borno South in the National Assembly, Ali Ndume, has faulted the recently agreed minimum wage of N70,000 for Nigerian workers, saying the amount can only buy a bag of rice in the present economy.Read more
4. Shaibu vows to restore dignity to deputy govs’ office amid impeachment
Philip Shaibu, the reinstated deputy governor of Edo State, asserted on Sunday that his ongoing fight against impeachment aims to restore the dignity of the deputy governor’s office, which he believes has been consistently undermined since the advent of democracy in 1999.Read more
5. Simon Ekpa feeding on emotions, sufferings of Ndigbo for selfish gains —Enugu Gov, Mbah
Enugu State governor, Peter Mbah, has accused the self-styled Prime Minister of the Biafra Republic Government in Exile (BRGIE), Simon Ekpa, of feeding on the emotions and suffering of Igbo people to hold them hostage.Read more
READ ALSO:Top 10 stories from across Nigerian Newspapers, Saturday, July 20, 2024
6. Court orders INEC to investigate, prosecute offenders of electoral violence during 2023 polls
The Federal High Court sitting in Abuja, in a groundbreaking judgment, has ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to hold Nigeria’s state governors, their deputies and others to account over cases of electoral violence, bribery, vote-buying, and conspiracy during the chaotic 2023 general elections.Read more
7. Dangote halts proposed investment in steel following ‘monopoly’ accusation
Aliko Dangote, chairman of Dangote Industries Limited has revealed that he will no longer invest in Nigeria’s steel industry following accusations of monopoly in some quarters.Read more
8. Monopoly, low quality fuel allegations: Dangote kicks as Reps call for probe
Aliko Dangote, owner of the Dangote Refinery and Petrochemical Plant has debunked claims by the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) on the quality of petroleum products from the refinery and allegation of attempted monopoly of the industry.Read more
9. President Biden withdraws from presidential race, endorses Kamala Harris
In a surprising announcement on Saturday, President Joe Biden declared his decision to withdraw from the presidential race, citing the best interests of his party and the nation.Read more
10. Nadal loses to Borges in first final since 2022
Rafael Nadal could not wrap up the Swedish Open on a bright note having successfully reached the final of the competition.Read more
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US election: Kamala Harris formally takes over Biden-Harris $96 million campaign account
The Biden-Harris campaign has formally amended filings with the Federal Election Commission to rename its principal committee and declare Kamala Harris a candidate for president.
Campaign Legal Center said Harris could assume control of the Biden-Harris campaign account if she remains on the ticket for the general election.
CNN reports that the campaign account had nearly $96 million cash in hand at the end of June.
TVN reported that President Joe Biden on Sunday announced the suspension of his 2024 reelection campaign.
But just hours after Biden withdrew from the race, the campaign committee filed paperwork with the Federal Election Commission, re-designating the committee as “Harris for President.”
The committee also filed a letter with the commission stating that “Vice President Harris is now a candidate for United States President in the 2024 election.”
US election: Kamala Harris formally takes over Biden-Harris $96 million campaign account
Dangote halts proposed investment in steel following ‘monopoly’ accusation
Aliko Dangote, chairman of Dangote Industries Limited has revealed that he will no longer invest in Nigeria’s steel industry following accusations of monopoly in some quarters.
Speaking recently during a tour at his refinery in Lagos, Africa’s richest man said the organisation’s board decided to avoid the steel industry “to prevent accusations of being branded a monopoly”.
Dangote also said the claim in some quarters that his group of companies enjoy monopoly is not true.
“You know, about doing a new business which we announced, that is, steel. Actually, our board has decided that we shouldn’t do the steel because if we do the steel business, we will be called all sorts of names like monopoly,” he said.
“And then also, imports will be encouraged. So we don’t want to go into that.
“If you look at all our operations at Dangote (Group), we add value; we take local raw materials and turn them into products, and we sell.
“We have never consciously or unconsciously stopped anybody from doing the same business that we are doing.
“When we first came into cement production, it was only Lafarge that was operating here in Nigeria… Nobody ever called Lafarge a monopoly,” he said.
He said labelling his group of companies as monopolistic is disheartening.
“Monopoly is when you stop people, you block them through legal means. No, it is a level playing field whereby whatever Dangote was given in cement, for example, other people were given because some of them even got more than us,” he added.
Dangote, however, encouraged Nigerians to invest in the industry to help boost the country’s economy.
“Let other Nigerians go and do it. We are not the only Nigerians here. There are some Nigerians with more cash than us,” the billionaire said.
Dangote said people “should bring that money from Dubai and other parts of the world and invest in our fatherland”.
By: Babajide Okeowo
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Akwa Ibom: Community pharmacists seek government intervention to ensure medicine security
Community pharmacists in Akwa Ibom State have raised the alarm over the spike in the cost of medications in Nigeria occasioned by what they described as a “depressed economy” and the rising cost of energy.
The association also condemned the heavy reliance on imports of medications and active pharmaceutical ingredients from China and India, despite the nation’s local capacity to produce.
This was contained in a communiqué issued at the end of the 3rd Annual Scientific Conference of the association, themed, “Medicine Security in an Unstable Economy: The Role of Community Pharmacists,” held in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State capital.
The association noted that the rising cost of energy and the volatile economy of Nigeria had led to the withdrawal of some multinational pharmaceutical companies from Nigeria, such as GlaxoSmithKline, and the collapse of local manufacturers, such as Jubilee Syringe Manufacturing Company in Onna, Akwa Ibom, saying that these were threats to the sustainability of community pharmacies.
The communiqué noted that this gap represents a low-hanging fruit and urged the Akwa Ibom State government to adopt a sustainable model for local pharmaceutical manufacturing by expanding the ongoing Ibom-LED Entrepreneurship Accelerator Programme to support community pharmacies willing to venture into the production of pharmaceuticals and healthcare consumables.
The pharmacists observed that “at a misery index of 85%, the Nigerian economy is depressed and may lead to an increase in drug smuggling and counterfeiting.”
They, therefore, sued for authentication of medicines, traceability, tamper-proof packaging, quality control, secure transportation, storage and monitoring, to ensure medicine security.
They also urged Governor Umo Eno to consider the re-activation and funding of the Akwa Ibom State Counterfeit and Fake Drug Monitoring Committee as a public health emergency.
While commending the governor for financing healthcare for the poor, the association called for the strengthening of the Akwa Ibom State Health Insurance Agency.
“There is a need for the inclusion of a pharmacist in the Akwa Ibom State Health Insurance Agency Board in view of the pivotal role of pharmaceutical services in healthcare, the proven expertise of pharmacists in health economics and pharmacoeconomics and a groundswell of research that identifies the cost of medications as a significant component of catastrophic health expenditure,” the association noted.
The pharmacists also called on the Akwa Ibom State government, in line with her ARISE AGENDA, to support the ongoing public health awareness campaign of the association, aimed at raising the health consciousness of Akwa Ibom residents by discussing vital health topics weekly across various electronic media.
Akwa Ibom: Community pharmacists seek government intervention to ensure medicine security
Benin Airport attack: Asue Campaign Organisation vows to resist intimidation
As accusations and counter-accusations over the political violence that resulted in the death of a police inspector in the state continue, the Asue-Ogie
Campaign Organisation has said that it would resist any attempt by other parties to use external force to intimidate members of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP.
TVN reports that the Director-General of the campaign organisation, Matthew Iduoriyekemwen, made the remarks at a press briefing on Sunday in Benin City.
At the press briefing titled “A Call for Justice and Fair Play in Edo State’s 2024 Political Landscape,” Iduoriyekemwen said PDP would resist any attempt by other parties or campaign organisations to use external force to intimidate, harass, or molest them during their peaceful campaign or undermine their democratic process.
“We call on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to remember that he is now the father of all Nigerians, not just the APC, and urge him to act as a father to the nation and ensure a fair and just democratic process,” he said.
Iduoriyekemwen alleged that since the incident, the campaign council has witnessed an alarming increase in harassment and violence perpetrated by political thugs associated with APC.
He alleged that political thugs are targeting those supporting PDP and its candidate, Asue Ighodalo.
“Regarding the events of Thursday, 18th July 2024, the Edo State APC, under the guise of federal might, has used the Nigeria Police Force to harass members of our party.
“They are attempting to twist the narrative and pin the killing of the police officer on members of the Peoples Democratic Party.
“Contrary to their claims, the PDP has conducted and will continue to conduct peaceful and violence-free campaigns. We have no intention of engaging in violence against any political party, its members, or candidates.
“Videos circulating on social media platforms, including YouTube, clearly show the perpetrators of the violence on Airport Road, Benin City.
“These individuals, identified as known thugs affiliated with the Edo State APC, were seen brandishing sophisticated weapons,” he said.
He urged the Federal Government and the Inspector General of Police to thoroughly investigate the matter, as petitions have already been submitted by the state government and PDP.
He also alleged that a female director of the PDP campaign organisation was beaten and her vehicle destroyed. Despite her report to the police, no action has been taken to bring the perpetrators to justice, he claimed.
Iduoriyekemwen urged the Inspector General of Police to act impartially and not favour any political party.
He also urged all members, followers, and supporters of the party’s governorship candidate to remain steadfast in their support.
He further advised the party faithful not to be intimidated or allow themselves to be disenfranchised by those who claim to have “federal might” as Nigeria is a democratic state and not a one-party state.
Benin Airport attack: Asue Campaign Organisation vows to resist intimidation
Obama reacts to Joe Biden’s withdrawal from US presidential race
Former President of the United States Barack Obama has reacted to reports of President Joe Biden’s withdrawal from the US election.
TVN earlier reported that Biden announced his withdrawal from the 2024 presidential election on Sunday.
Biden subsequently endorsed his deputy, Kamala Harris, as his preferred presidential nominee for the Democratic Party.
Reacting, Obama in a post on his official X handle, described Biden as one of America’s most consequential presidents.
Obama wrote, “Joe Biden has been one of America’s most consequential presidents, as well as a dear friend and partner to me.
“Today, we’ve also been reminded – again – that he’s a patriot of the highest order.”
Obama reacts to Joe Biden’s withdrawal from US presidential race
Customs CG, Adeniyi revives CMAA with US CBP to enhance border security, Service delivery
The Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to bolstering global partnerships.
Adeniyi’s said this during a bilateral meeting with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) in Washington, D.C., in a recent meeting. The focus of the meeting was to reactivate the Customs Mutual Assistance Agreement (CMAA), dormant for over a decade, aimed at fortifying national security through enhanced collaboration and data-driven strategies to combat cross-border crimes.
Adeniyi underscored the imperative role of Customs officials in tackling prevalent transnational challenges such as drug trafficking, arms smuggling, and money laundering while safeguarding national interests. “We’ve successfully intercepted illegal drugs and weapons at major Nigerian ports and airports,” Adeniyi stated, stressing the critical need to revive the CMAA. “This agreement will significantly augment our capabilities in border protection and service delivery, ensuring a safer and more prosperous future for all Nigerians.”
Addressing specific challenges, Adeniyi highlighted the ongoing efforts in Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) enforcement and combating opiates. “While our achievements are notable, there’s a continuous need for capacity building and stringent enforcement,” he remarked.
Read also: Gunmen kill Police Inspector, three civilians in Aba attack
In advocating for advanced security measures, Adeniyi proposed the establishment of a Center for Advanced Cargo and Passenger Data Analysis to mitigate risks effectively. He emphasized the importance of an advanced command and control center to bolster security operations, citing its pivotal role in managing risks proactively.
The meeting also explored strategies to enhance commercial air cargo security and foster partnerships with U.S. government agencies. Adeniyi praised CBP’s global targeting advisory capabilities, emphasizing the importance of tailored approaches and international cooperation in addressing air cargo complexities.
James Collins, Assistant Commissioner of CBP’s Office of International Affairs, echoed Adeniyi’s sentiments on the criticality of data integration and collaborative efforts in countering transnational threats. “Integration of data and international cooperation is paramount in combating criminal groups exploiting border vulnerabilities,” Collins emphasized. He stressed the necessity of capacity building and targeted training to bolster border security, advocating for secure intelligence channels and partnerships with global entities.
Key outcomes included plans for enhanced intelligence sharing channels between Nigerian Customs and CBP, exploring operational partnerships for coordinated cross-border responses, and leveraging INTERPOL initiatives in combating transnational crimes across West and Central Africa.
The meeting culminated with a presentation on Artificial Intelligence by Sunil Madhugri from CBP’s Office of Information and Technology, underscoring AI’s transformative role in modernizing border security operations.
In a related engagement, CGC Bashir Adewale Adeniyi visited the Nigerian Embassy in the USA, expressing gratitude for their support towards Nigerians in the diaspora and affirming Nigeria’s commitment to fostering international relations for mutual benefits.
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Delta monarchs urge FG, state government to reconstruct Okuama community
The Delta State Traditional Rulers Council has pleaded with the federal and Delta State governments to reconstruct Okuama community.
The community was destroyed in the aftermath of the brutal killing of 17 soldiers, including three officers, in March of this year.
The call is contained in a four-point communiqué issued at the end of the monarchs’ meeting in Asaba.
The chairman of the council and Orodje of Okpe Kingdom, Major-General Felix Mujakpuero (retd), Orhue I, who presented the communique, said the early reconstruction of Okuama community would alleviate the sufferings of the people and facilitate the early return of the displaced residents to their ancestral home.
The council commended the Ovie of Uvwie kingdom, led by Ukoko Ivie Urhobo, for presenting relief materials to the Okuama internally displaced persons camp saying that the gesture would be a great relief to the people particularly in meeting their daily
basic needs.
The monarchs tasked the newly elected council chairmen to embark on meaningful development projects in their various council areas to justify the confidence reposed in them by the electorate, even as they congratulated them on their electoral victories.
The meeting was attended by traditional rulers from across the three senatorial districts.
Delta monarchs urge FG, state government to reconstruct Okuama community
Gunmen kill Police Inspector, three civilians in Aba attack
Tragedy struck in Aba, Abia State, on Sunday, as gunmen launched a deadly attack on a police patrol team, resulting in the death of a police Inspector and three civilians. The incident occurred along Mosque street by Ngwa road, where the assailants, traveling in a Toyota Sienna bus, opened fire on the police team.
According to reports, the police team, identified as the Rapid Response Squad (RRS), swiftly retaliated, engaging the attackers in a fierce exchange of gunfire. In the crossfire, Inspector Shehu Oyibo of the RRS and three civilians—Chika Godliveth, Onyeaturuchi Jonah, and Eniobong God’sgift Clement—lost their lives to stray bullets.
Abia State Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Maureen Chinaka, confirmed the tragic event, stating that in addition to the fatalities, two gunmen were killed while others managed to escape with gunshot wounds.
Eyewitnesses recounted a scene of chaos and additional casualties, suggesting that more individuals might have been injured or killed in the onslaught.
Read also: President Biden withdraws from presidential race, endorses Kamala Harris
In an official statement on Sunday, ASP Maureen Chinaka provided details of the incident: “Today, July 21, 2024, at about 11:28hrs, police operatives attached to the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) Aba, Abia State Command, while on patrol along Ngwa Road by Mosque junction, Aba, were attacked by armed assailants in an ash-colored Sienna vehicle. The armed men opened fire on the police personnel, and the operatives repelled the attack, preventing what could have been a deadlier outcome.”
She continued, “Unfortunately, during the exchange of gunfire, two of the assailants were neutralized, while others escaped with various degrees of bullet injuries. Tragically, Inspector Shehu Oyibo and three civilians—Chika Godliveth, Onyenaturuchi Jonah, and Eniobong Godsgift Clement—fell victim to bullets from the assailants. Their bodies have been deposited at the mortuary, and investigations are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspects.”
ASP Chinaka assured the public of heightened security measures, with deployments to strategic locations across the state to safeguard lives and property. She urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities or individuals with gunshot wounds to law enforcement authorities promptly.
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