Nigeria Times

The Joint Action Committee (JAC) of the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) and the Non-Academic Staff Union of Universities and Allied Institutions (NASU) has voiced frustration with the Federal Government’s partial salary release, which covered only one of the four months owed to university staff. The unions began an indefinite strike last Monday, leading to widespread shutdowns in universities nationwide.

Mohammed Ibrahim, SSANU’s National President, confirmed the partial disbursement but stated that it fails to address the unions’ core demands. According to Ibrahim, essential staff such as Vice-Chancellors, bursars, and registrars also remain unpaid, which has further disrupted university operations.

The unions are expected to meet soon to review their course of action, with a collective commitment to maintain the strike until the full salary arrears are cleared. Union compliance with the strike remains strong, with Ibrahim noting that approximately 98 percent of members are participating.

The Federal Government is reportedly considering dropping treason charges against over 100 young protesters from the #EndBadGovernance movement. The Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, is currently reviewing the case files to decide on the next course of action.

The Nigeria Police Force defended its decision to arraign the protesters, stating that Nigerian law allows for the prosecution of individuals as young as seven. The police emphasized that they followed protocol in ensuring the protesters’ rights and access to medical care.

In response to the public outcry, the case files were sent to the Ministry of Justice on Friday, where a team led by the Director of Public Prosecution (DPPF) is now in discussions to reschedule the initial January court dates and potentially drop the charges.

Last Friday, the Federal High Court in Abuja, presided over by Justice Obiora Egwuatu, granted bail with strict conditions. Senior Advocate of Nigeria Femi Falana has filed an appeal, urging the court to decline jurisdiction over the minors and order the Federal Government to fund their education.

Falana’s application highlights that charging minors alongside adults violates their rights, with calls for the government to support their education under Nigeria’s Constitution, Child’s Rights Act, and the Universal Basic Education Act.

Edo Government Confirms EFCC Detention of Key Officials

The Edo State Government has confirmed that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has detained the State Accountant General along with four other officials. This follows an exclusive report by Naija News about the anti-graft agency’s recent arrests of Edo government representatives who manage state accounts.

Reports from Friday reveal that the detained officials were summoned for a briefing on Thursday, leading to their subsequent detention at the EFCC’s Benin office.

In an official statement on Saturday, Chris Osa Nehikhare, the Edo State Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, accused the EFCC of attempting to undermine governance within the state. Nehikhare emphasized that Governor Godwin Obaseki’s administration remains committed to transparency and accountability.

Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed has criticized the ongoing trial of minors involved in an August hunger protest, highlighting the harsh bail conditions set at ₦10 million for their release. He questioned how impoverished youths, unable to afford basic meals, could be expected to meet such a high bail amount.

The governor voiced his concerns on his Hausa Facebook page, “ArewaMuFarka,” describing the situation as unjust treatment of poor children who were merely exercising their right to peaceful protest. He expressed dismay over the minors’ apparent lack of adequate food and poor condition when they appeared in court, describing it as evidence of mistreatment while in police custody.

As the Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors Forum, Governor Bala called on security agencies, the judiciary, and human rights organizations to advocate for the release of the minors, urging fair treatment and a reconsideration of their bail terms.

President Bola Tinubu has reiterated his administration’s commitment to addressing the issues of banditry, kidnapping, and other criminal activities across Nigeria. During the 9th Convocation at the Federal University, Dutsin-Ma in Katsina State, he emphasized that government efforts alone are not enough and urged citizens to play an active role in supporting security initiatives.

Represented by Prof. Abdulkarim Mohammed, Vice-Chancellor of Federal University Dutse, Jigawa State, Tinubu highlighted the importance of public involvement in security. He encouraged citizens to provide security agencies with valuable information to aid in strengthening the country’s security.

Additionally, Tinubu encouraged Nigerian youth to benefit from the Nigerian Loan Scheme, which has allocated over N70 billion to support youth enterprises and aspirations. He underscored that the nation’s progress relies on both government action and active participation from all Nigerians.

“Governance is not just about the presidency or leaders,” he said. “It’s about Nigeria and Nigerians who have the power to make this country better.”

He also urged graduating students to be exemplary ambassadors of their institution and Nigeria and called on university lecturers to adopt modern teaching methods, incorporating Information Communication Technology to better equip future leaders.