James Lalu’s Leadership Tainted by Fraud, Says Anti-Corruption Group

Coalition of Nigeria Civil Society against Corruption has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for not reappointing Dr. James Lalu as the Executive Secretary of the National Commission for People Living with Disability.

The Anti-corruption Group accused Dr. Lalu of fraudulent activities during his four-year tenure, with several petitions filed against him.

In a press statement signed by its spokesperson, Barrister Sani Sambo Kankia, the coalition positioned that the decision by Tinubu was a step in the right direction towards fighting corruption, adding that Lalu breached the trust of Mr. President and that of the Nigerian people throughout his tenure in office.

The coalition called on president Tinubu to direct the Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC) and the Department of State Services (DSS) to probe and arrest Dr. Lalu, citing his alleged fraudulent activities.

Kankia, who praised Tinubu for his commitment to fighting corruption and ensuring that those responsible are held accountable, also called for the National Commission for People Living with Disability to be reformed to prevent future cases of corruption.

With this development, he stressed that the disability community is hopeful for a new era of transparency and accountability in the Commission

“We commend President Tinubu for listening to the cries of the disability community and taking a stand against corruption. The decision not to reappoint Dr. Lalu is a bold step towards ensuring that those who have betrayed the trust of Nigerians are held accountable.

“The disability community and the Coalition of Nigeria Civil Society against Corruption are now calling for a probe into Dr. Lalu’s tenure, therefore we are calling on President Tinubu to direct the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), The Nigerian police force, ICPC and the Department of State Services (DSS) to investigate the allegations of fraudulent activities under Lalu’s led leadership and also code of conduct should provide his form before and after he left office.

“As a group, we will continue to monitor the situation and ensure that justice is served. We will not rest until those responsible for corruption in Nigeria are held accountable.

“Remarkably, we are also calling on President Tinubu to ensure that the National Commission for People Living with Disability is reformed to prevent future cases of corruption. The Commission needs to be overhauled to ensure that it serves the purpose for which it was established.

“With this development, the disability community is hopeful for a new era of transparency and accountability in the National Commission for People Living with Disability. They praised President Tinubu for his commitment to fighting corruption and ensuring that those responsible are held accountable.” Kankia, maintained.

FCCPC Rejects Claims of Regulating Food Prices, Emphasizes Focus on Fair Market Practices

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has firmly denied plans to regulate food prices or other commodity costs in Nigeria. The commission clarified that its recent directives are aimed solely at addressing exploitative practices and ensuring a fair and competitive marketplace.

In a statement released by Ondaje Ijagwu, Director of Special Duties and Strategic Communication, the FCCPC responded to concerns from the Organised Private Sector and other stakeholders regarding its directives to halt practices such as price gouging and price fixing.

The FCCPC emphasized that its role does not include price control but is focused on maintaining market fairness. “We categorically assert that prices in a competitive marketplace are determined solely by the forces of supply and demand. Price control is entirely outside the scope of our responsibilities,” the statement read.

The commission acknowledged that external factors like foreign exchange fluctuations and fuel subsidy removals affect pricing but stressed that these factors do not justify exploitative practices. A recent example in the cement industry highlighted by the FCCPC illustrated the type of harmful conduct it aims to address. Abdul Samad Rabiu, Chairman of BUA Cement, reported that dealers inflated cement prices from N3,500 per bag to as high as N7,000 to N8,000.

The FCCPC reassured businesses that its actions are not intended to suppress private enterprise but to protect consumers from unfair practices. The commission has granted a one-month moratorium before enforcing its directives to allow businesses time to adjust their practices.

“We will continue to monitor the marketplace and take action against any business practices that violate the law,” the FCCPC stated, reaffirming its commitment to upholding the principles of fair competition and consumer protection under the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act 2018.

EFCC Accuses Traditional Rulers of Colluding with Illegal Miners

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has raised serious allegations against some traditional rulers, accusing them of colluding with illegal miners, despite the detrimental effects on their communities and the country as a whole.

EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, made this revelation on Tuesday during the two-day first International Anti-Corruption and Climate Change Conference in Abuja. The event was organized by the Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) in collaboration with Hawkmoth and supported by the MacArthur Foundation.

Olukoyede warned that the environmental degradation caused by illegal mining could become more severe than the damage from oil and gas exploration in just five years. He emphasized the significant environmental harm being inflicted, not only by foreign actors but also by local communities, often with the support of their traditional leaders.

In addition, Olukoyede highlighted the severe environmental damage in the Niger Delta, noting that corruption, rather than natural causes, is the primary driver behind the region’s oil spills, pollution, and ecosystem destruction. He stressed that corruption is at the root of these environmental crises, linking it directly to the broader issue of climatic disruptions.

Kenneth Okonkwo: Atiku, Obi, and Tinubu Should Step Aside for 2027 Election

Kenneth Okonkwo, the former spokesman for the Labour Party’s presidential campaign council, has called for Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and President Bola Tinubu to step aside from the 2027 election, asserting that none of them are fit to run. According to Okonkwo, all three political figures have failed Nigerians.

Speaking during an interview on Arise TV on Tuesday, the Nollywood actor criticized both the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Labour Party (LP) for failing to effectively challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and hold it accountable for policies that have led to widespread hardship in the country.

Okonkwo emphasized the need for new faces in Nigerian politics and argued that the focus should be on consolidating opposition efforts rather than immediately planning for the next election. He pointed out that if the opposition parties had united in the House of Representatives, they could have produced the Speaker and Vice Speaker.

The human rights lawyer also addressed the controversy surrounding the removal of the fuel subsidy, which was supported by all three major parties before the 2023 election. However, he criticized President Tinubu for implementing the removal without proper planning or consideration for the welfare of Nigerians, calling the move irresponsible and unsustainable.

Okonkwo condemned the current administration as nepotistic and self-centered, citing its focus on personal luxuries, such as the purchase of a new presidential jet, while Nigerians suffer from insecurity and economic hardship.

He further criticized the opposition leaders for failing to show strong leadership and inspire confidence among their supporters. Okonkwo argued that if the opposition had taken a stronger stance, the APC would not have been able to make decisions such as appointing INEC members who are affiliated with the ruling party. He concluded by stating that the opposition needs to prioritize the welfare of the people before considering future elections, and that all current leaders have failed in this regard.

Impersonator of Singer Flavour Sentenced to Two Years in Prison

The Federal High Court in Lagos has sentenced a man named Courage Ipaka to two years imprisonment for impersonating renowned Nigerian singer Chinedu Okoli, popularly known as Flavour N’abania. Ipaka was convicted of defrauding a U.S. citizen, Yvelte M. Thompson, of $53,000.

Justice Dehinde Dipeolu delivered the judgment on Tuesday after Ipaka pleaded guilty to the two-count charge brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The judge also gave Ipaka the option of a ₦2 million fine and ordered the forfeiture of ₦7.9 million to the victim.

The EFCC’s prosecutor, Suleiman Suleiman, presented evidence through investigator Azibagiri Ekpar, who explained how Ipaka carried out the fraud. “Ipaka impersonated Flavour by claiming he would organize shows in the United States and received payments through his Bitcoin wallets,” Ekpar stated.

The investigation began after the EFCC received a petition from Eyitayo Abiodun and others on behalf of Thompson. “We invited Flavour, who came forward and denied any involvement in the allegations. Our investigation led us to Benin City, where we discovered that Ipaka Courage was the real culprit,” Ekpar revealed.

He added, “Ipaka admitted in his statement that he impersonated Flavour and scammed Mrs. Thompson of $53,000 in 2021. He converted the funds into naira and deposited them into his Access Bank account.”

Ekpar further disclosed that ₦7.9 million was recovered from Ipaka’s accounts through manager’s cheques from Zenith and Access banks.

After reviewing the evidence, Justice Dipeolu sentenced Ipaka to two years imprisonment with the option of a fine.

Dollar to Naira Black Market Exchange Rate Today, September 4th, 2024

What is the Dollar to Naira exchange rate at the black market, also known as the parallel market (Aboki fx)? Below is the exchange rate for September 3rd, 2024. You can exchange your dollars for Naira at these rates.

Dollar to Naira Black Market Exchange Rate Today (Aboki dollar rate):

  • Buying Rate: ₦1630
  • Selling Rate: ₦1640

These rates are for the Lagos Parallel Market (Black Market) as reported by sources at Bureau De Change (BDC).

Please note that the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) does not recognize the parallel market (black market). The CBN has directed individuals seeking to engage in Forex to approach their respective banks.

Dollar to Naira CBN Rate Today:

  • Buying Rate: ₦1597
  • Selling Rate: ₦1598

The actual rates you encounter may differ from those reported here, as prices can vary.

Dangote Explains Why Petrol from His Refinery Is Clearer and More Environmentally Friendly

Aliko Dangote, President of Dangote Group, has revealed the reasons behind the clearer appearance of the first sample of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, produced by his refinery in Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos. Speaking during a broadcast at the refinery, Dangote explained that the clarity of the petrol indicates its higher quality, making it more environmentally friendly and potentially reducing health risks associated with the use of polluted petroleum products.

Dangote emphasized that the new petrol would also offer better protection for vehicle engines, which are often damaged by the less refined petrol currently available in the market. He showcased the sample, stating, “This is the sample of the petrol. You see it as a different colour, but that is the real deal. You are now going to have a good and genuine product.”

In addition to the petrol, Dangote introduced a new type of diesel, known as Euro-5 diesel, which contains less than 10 parts per million (PPM) of sulphur. He noted that this diesel would help prolong the lifespan of vehicles, engines, and generators. “I am sure Nigerians have not seen this colour of diesel before,” Dangote remarked, highlighting the environmental and health benefits of the cleaner fuel.

Before this presentation, Dangote Group had raised concerns about international oil companies’ preference for selling Nigerian crude oil through foreign agents, leading to higher local crude prices. The group also claimed that foreign producers were prioritizing sales to Asian markets over domestic supply.

The Dangote refinery has been in a dispute with the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) over the alleged inadequate supply of locally sourced crude oil. The Dangote Group accused the NUPRC of failing to enforce Domestic Crude Supply Obligations, despite the commission’s claim that it had facilitated the delivery of over 29 million barrels of crude oil to the refinery from January to June 2024.

The NUPRC has denied the allegations, asserting that it has ensured domestic crude supplies to the Dangote refinery and other refineries through its monthly production curtailment platform.

Tinubu and Xi Jinping Sign Five Key Agreements to Boost Nigeria-China Relations

President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria and President Xi Jinping of China have signed a series of new agreements aimed at deepening the partnership between their countries. During Tinubu’s official visit to Beijing, the two leaders announced the elevation of Nigeria-China relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership, with a focus on building a high-level community with a shared future.

This visit, which comes ahead of the 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), saw both nations committing to several key agreements, including:

  1. A cooperation plan to jointly promote the Belt and Road Initiative.
  2. An MoU on the peaceful application of nuclear energy.
  3. An MoU on enhancing cooperation in human resource development under the Global Development Initiative.
  4. An MoU on media exchange and cooperation.
  5. An MoU between China Media Group and the Nigerian Television Authority.

President Tinubu emphasized Nigeria’s commitment to economic reforms and the potential for growth, likening his reform agenda to the transformative policies implemented by President Xi in China. Both leaders highlighted the long-standing mutual understanding between their nations, which have maintained diplomatic ties for over 50 years, and underscored the importance of strengthening strategic coordination to foster development in the West African sub-region and beyond.

President Xi expressed confidence that the reinforced partnership between China and Nigeria would not only benefit their countries but also serve as a model for China-Africa relations and cooperation among Global South nations.

NLC Condemns Petrol Price Hike, Accuses Government of Betrayal, Issues Seven Demands

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has strongly condemned the recent increase in petrol prices by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC), accusing the federal government of betrayal. NLC President Joe Ajaero expressed deep dissatisfaction, noting that the acceptance of the ₦70,000 minimum wage was based on an understanding that fuel prices would not be raised.

The NNPC recently adjusted the pump price of petrol to ₦855 per litre, a move that the NLC describes as “traumatic and nightmarish,” particularly given that the new minimum wage has yet to be implemented.

Ajaero criticized the Bola Tinubu administration for consistently betraying the Nigerian people, suppressing peaceful protests, and causing widespread hardship. In response, the NLC issued seven demands, including the immediate reversal of the petrol price increase, the release of those detained during recent protests, and the reversal of the 250% hike in electricity tariffs.

The NLC also warned that it would not be intimidated by the government’s actions and hinted at further actions to be taken in the coming days, with decisions to be announced publicly.

Dangote Refinery Begins Petrol Supply as NMDPRA and NNPCL Agree on Naira-Based Crude Sales

The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) and the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) have reached an agreement to sell crude oil to the Dangote Refinery in naira. This development marks a significant step as the Dangote Refinery begins supplying petrol to the Nigerian market.

Starting in September 2024, the refinery will supply 25 million litres of petrol daily, with plans to increase this to 30 million litres per day by October 2024. This move follows the Federal Executive Council’s (FEC) recent endorsement of transactions involving the sale of crude oil to the Dangote Refinery and the purchase of petrol products in naira.

Aliko Dangote, CEO of Dangote Refinery, expressed his gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for initiating the naira-based crude oil sales, which is expected to reduce pressure on Nigeria’s foreign exchange market by at least 40%. He emphasized that this initiative will contribute to greater stability for the naira while highlighting the successful commencement of gasoline production at the refinery.

Dangote acknowledged the skepticism surrounding the refinery’s ability to deliver but confirmed that the project has now reached a significant milestone in Nigeria’s energy sector.