Hunger Protest: Middle Belt group applauds Tinubu’s speech, passes vote of confidence on President

…lauds Water Resources Minister, Prof. Utsev’s constructive engagement with youths

The Middle Belt Transformation Ambassadors of Nigeria have commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his nationwide broadcast. They also praised the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev, for his constructive engagement with youths from the region during the protests.

The group noted that the protests in the region were not as intense due to Prof. Utsev’s diplomatic efforts during that time.

In a statement released on Monday and signed by its Convener, Dr Grace Oralu, the group commended Prof. Utsev for his dedication to achieving President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and for boosting the confidence of the region in the current administration.

The group also passed a vote of confidence on President Bola Tinubu and his reforms to lead the nation and address its numerous challenges.

“We are relieved by President Bola Tinubu’s landmark nationwide broadcast. His speech not only vividly addressed the concerns of genuine protesters but also demonstrated Renewed Hope in action. It’s indeed a step in the right direction,” the statement noted.

“We also want to use this medium to commend the Honorable Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev, for taking the initiative to travel across the Middle Belt region and engage with the youths before and during the protests.

“His diplomatic efforts helped to reduce the tension in the region. His positive interactions with the youths discouraged their participation in the violent protests, especially in Benue State. We commend him for promoting peace and stability in our region and encourage him to continue his good work.

“Similar to other Nigerians, we are impressed by the President’s announcement regarding the suspension of import duties on food for an initial period of six months. This initial suspension, with the indication of a willingness to extend it, demonstrates a proactive approach to addressing the food crisis.

“We are also impressed by his call for the youth to avoid being used as tools to propagate hate or violence against any ethnic groups. The youth must recognize their important roles as tomorrow’s leaders and refuse to be reduced to willing tools of destabilization in the hands of desperate and disgruntled politicians.

“By acknowledging the pressing issues facing our country, agreeing to dialogue, and condemning violence, President Tinubu has demonstrated that he’s a reasonable leader.

“Now, it’s time for calm. The protesters have passed their messages, and the President heard them loud and clear and responded as a responsible leader would. Therefore, continuing the nationwide demonstration is encouraging the looting by hoodlums that have marred the protests in some parts of the country.

“The government should be praised for not using force against the protesters, despite the violent nature of the protests. This is especially in contrast to what happened in Kenya, where protesters were reportedly mistreated and even killed. President Tinubu has been actively involved in protests throughout his life as part of his fight for our nation’s democracy, and he allows citizens to freely express themselves. This is commendable.

“The President’s speech has brought relief to Nigerians. The opposition and sponsors of the politically motivated protests, including those from Russia, should appreciate his timely and proactive response, rather than condemn it.

“Those criticizing the speech should understand that Nigeria’s problems cannot be addressed in just 30 minutes. The President’s nationwide broadcast was less than 30 minutes, and yet he covered a wide range of issues. The speech highlighted notable achievements, such as more than doubling the minimum wage from N30,000 to N70,000 per month, committing over N45 billion to the student loan scheme, increasing national oil production to over 1.6 million barrels per day, and providing significant funding for MSMEs and youth development programs.

“The current administration is making progress in key sectors and the reforms implemented by some of Tinubu’s ministers, such as the Honorable Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev, have had a positive impact on the general populace. His pragmatic approach to solving the many problems confronting the country’s surface and groundwater resources has catalysed socio-economic growth and prosperity.

“The Middle Belt Transformation Ambassadors of Nigeria firmly support the President. We unequivocally pass a vote of confidence on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his efforts to lead the nation and address its numerous challenges.

“We urge fellow Nigerians to continue to trust the process. President Tinubu is working to fix Nigeria. Hope is in action!”

PDP suspends Ortom, others for gross misconduct

The State Working Committee, SWC of the People’s Democratic Party, PDP, in Benue State has suspended the immediate past governor of the state, Chief Samuel Ortom for his choice of the Labour Party, LP candidate in the 2023 election and his statement calling on Benue PDP to vote for APC in the 2027 presidential election.

Also suspended according to a statement signed by CT Heande, PDP Media Consultant and made available to newsmen, is one Hon. Azua Ashongo for gross insubordination and indiscipline as well as the state vice chairman of the party, Chief Isaac Mffo and the Publicity Secretary, Chief Bemgba Iortyom.

Recall that embattled Bemgba Iortyom, was suspended at ward level by his party, PDP a month ago which Led to a litigation before a Benue State High Court, sitting in making for adjudication.

The suspension of the duo, Hwande said was as a result of their alleged involvement in the snatching of congress materials meant for the conduct of last Saturday’s ward congresses in Buruku and Ushongo local government areas respectively.

The suspension of the former governor and the three others, according to Hwande takes effect from Friday, 2nd August 2024.

Earlier, the state publicity Secretary of the party, Chief Bemgba Iortyom, who was listed as one of those suspended by the SWC, according to Hwande, had disclosed the suspension of the State Chairman of the party, John Ngbede, the State Secretary, Joseph Nyam and the state Organising Secretary, Moses Audu.

Their suspension, according to Iortyom was taken at an extraordinary meeting of the State Working Committee of the party on Saturday,3rd August, 2024, at which 9 out of the 13 members were present and assented to the decision.

Iortyom said the suspended members are accused of forging and impersonating the State Working Committee to achieve their individual aims, instigating violence and crisis during the just concluded ward congresses of the party, and mismanagement of the finances of the party, among other things.

“They have been directed to appear before the Disciplinary Committee of the party to answer to the charges brought against them within the period of their suspension.

“The State Deputy Chairman, Isaac Mffo, is now the State Chairman of the PDP in Benue State in Acting capacity.

“The PDP family and the general public should take note,” Iortyom stated.

7 Things to Never Say to Someone Going Through Depression

Depression is a complex mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide, manifesting as feelings of hopelessness, loss of interest in activities, fatigue, changes in appetite, and difficulty sleeping. Supporting a loved one with depression can be challenging, and it’s important to choose your words carefully. Here are seven things to avoid saying, along with some helpful alternatives:

  1. “You should be grateful for what you have.”
  • Why Not: Guilt-tripping someone with depression won’t improve their mood. Depression affects a person’s ability to feel positive emotions.
  • What to Say Instead: “I know it’s hard to see the good things right now, but you’re strong and you’ll get through this.”
  1. “Everyone feels down sometimes. You’ll get over it.”
  • Why Not: Minimizing their experience can make them feel unheard and alone. Sadness is different from persistent, debilitating depression.
  • What to Say Instead: “Depression is a real challenge, and it’s okay not to be okay.”
  1. “You just need to…” (Followed by unsolicited advice)
  • Why Not: Depression can steal motivation, making action difficult. Unsolicited advice can feel overwhelming and unhelpful.
  • What to Say Instead: “Would you like me to help you make a doctor’s appointment?” or “Would you like to come for a walk with me?”
  1. “At least you have…” (Followed by a comparison)
  • Why Not: Comparing their struggles to others’ invalidates their pain. Everyone’s journey is unique, and depression doesn’t discriminate.
  • What to Say Instead: “What can I do to make things a little easier for you right now?”
  1. “You just need to think positive!”
  • Why Not: Positivity isn’t a cure for depression and might feel impossible for someone experiencing it.
  • What to Say Instead: “These feelings won’t last forever. There is help available.”
  1. “It’s your fault you feel this way.”
  • Why Not: Depression isn’t caused by weakness or character flaws. Blaming the person adds to their burden.
  • What to Say Instead: “You’re not alone in this, and it’s not your fault.”
  1. “Just cheer up!”
  • Why Not: Depression is beyond the control of the person experiencing it. Forcing happiness can feel dismissive.
  • What to Say Instead: “Would you like to talk about what’s going on?” Sometimes, just listening is the most supportive thing you can do.

Empathy is Key

The best way to help someone with depression is to listen without judgment, offer support without pressure, and be their cheerleader in the fight for recovery. Your presence and understanding can make a world of difference in their journey.

Never Keep Perfume Bottles in These 4 Places If You Want Them to Last Longer

If you want your expensive perfume to maintain its fragrance and longevity, avoid storing it in these locations:

  1. On Your Desk
  • Reason: UV radiation can damage the perfume’s structure, altering or destroying its scent.
  • Tip: Store your perfume in a dark, cool place away from direct sunlight.
  1. Bathroom
  • Reason: High humidity and temperature fluctuations can degrade the fragrance, shortening its lifespan and altering its smell.
  • Tip: Keep your perfume in a dry area with stable temperature.
  1. The Car
  • Reason: The heat inside a car, especially in warm climates, can spoil the perfume, making the scent harsh or musty.
  • Tip: Carry a travel-size perfume if you need it on the go, but avoid leaving it in the car.
  1. Fridge
  • Reason: Extreme temperatures can affect the delicate components of concentrated perfumes like parfum and eau de parfum. Less concentrated forms like eau de toilette and eau de cologne are more robust but still sensitive to temperature fluctuations.
  • Tip: If you choose to refrigerate, maintain a consistent temperature and avoid frequent changes.

Best Storage Practices for Perfume

  • Original Packaging or Box: The original packaging protects the perfume from light and temperature fluctuations, preserving its fragrance.
  • Cool and Dark Place: Store perfumes in a drawer or a box to shield them from light and humidity, ensuring the scent remains intact until the last drop.

By carefully choosing where you store your perfume, you can ensure it retains its intended fragrance and longevity.

How Many Bottles of Water Should You Drink Daily?

Daily Water Needs

The general recommendation for daily water intake is around 11.5 cups (2.7 liters) for women and 15.5 cups (3.7 liters) for men. This total includes all fluids consumed, not just water. About 20% of your daily fluid intake comes from food, especially water-rich foods like fruits and vegetables. Therefore, you should aim to drink about 9-12 cups of water daily.

Converting to Bottles

A standard disposable water bottle holds about 16 ounces or roughly 2 cups. Based on this, women should drink around 4.5 to 6 bottles of water daily, while men should drink about 6.5 to 8 bottles.

Factors Affecting Water Needs

  • Activity Level: Regular exercise or physically demanding jobs increase water needs to replace fluids lost through sweat.
  • Climate: Hot or humid climates may require higher water intake to stay hydrated.
  • Health Conditions: Conditions like fever or diarrhea can increase water needs. Pregnant or breastfeeding women also require more fluids.

Signs of Proper Hydration and Dehydration

Check the color of your urine to gauge hydration. Clear or light yellow urine generally indicates good hydration, while dark yellow or amber urine suggests you need more fluids. Other signs of dehydration include dry mouth, dizziness, and fatigue. Conversely, drinking too much water can lead to hyponatremia, where sodium levels in your blood become dangerously low.

Tips for Drinking More Water

  • Carry a reusable water bottle and set reminders to drink throughout the day.
  • Incorporate water-rich foods into your diet.

Remember, individual water needs can vary, so it’s important to adjust your intake based on your specific circumstances.

Zamfara Youth Group Seeks Gov Lawal Resignation Over Insecurity, Politics

Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, has been accused of using the recent #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protests as a smokescreen to conceal his administration’s incompetence, massive corruption, and cluelessness.

The Coalition of Northern Youths for Peace and Stability has condemned the governor’s actions, calling for his immediate resignation.

“It is deeply disconcerting to observe that Governor Lawal orchestrated the deployment of thugs and miscreants to infiltrate and hijack the peaceful #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protest, thereby perpetrating a plethora of violent acts,” said Muhammad Garba Yahaya, spokesman for the coalition.

The group criticized Governor Lawal’s administration for its pervasive corruption, insecurity, and lack of direction, urging him to focus on addressing these critical issues rather than engaging in diversionary tactics.

“Governor Lawal’s inability to address the surge in insecurity has convinced the people of Zamfara that he lacks the understanding and capacity to fulfill the responsibilities of his office,” Yahaya said.

“He should consider stepping down and relinquishing power to a capable individual who prioritizes service to the people.”

The coalition commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s efforts in addressing the country’s socioeconomic challenges and urged Governor Lawal to follow suit.

They also called on security agencies to apprehend those responsible for orchestrating violence and disruption.

“Governor Lawal must be held responsible for his role in perpetuating this deceitful and destructive agenda,” Yahaya said.

“We demand that he cease using the lives of Zamfara citizens for political gain and instead focus on addressing the pressing issues of corruption and insecurity.”

Day Five of Nationwide Protest: Demonstrations Persist Despite Presidential Appeal

The nationwide protest against poor governance and hunger continues today as the demonstration enters its fifth day.

Naija News reports that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu addressed the nation on Sunday morning, urging protestors to suspend their actions while highlighting his administration’s accomplishments.

Despite this appeal, demonstrators remain active in Plateau, Lagos, and other states across the country.

Stay tuned to Naija News for ongoing coverage of the fifth day of these widespread protests.

Isah Zaki, a leader of the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protests in the Bauchi North zone, has expressed significant discontent with the President’s recent address. He noted that potential easing of protests in Bauchi North may be disrupted by hoodlums harming local businesses.

In Lagos, protesters have begun gathering at Gani Fawehinmi Freedom Park in Ojota. Meanwhile, in Katsina, demonstrators waved Russian flags and chanted in Hausa, “Hunger is killing us,” as reported by DailyTrust. Police have responded with teargas to disperse them.

In the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), security forces have intervened to disperse protesters in the Karu area, arresting three individuals. Yahaya Abdullahi, a protester, reported that security agents used teargas against them.

Group Demands Wike Sack Over Alleged Attacks On Women

The Renewed Hope Change Ambassadors have called for the removal of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.

The group cited his “incessant attacks” on women’s rights and “demarketing” of President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his government as the main reasons for the call.

In a statement issued on Monday and signed by its President, Dr Florence Adenifuja, the group claimed that Wike has a history of violence against women. The group emphasized that Wike’s “anti-people’s actions” are a threat to society.

The statement reads, “The Renewed Hope Change Ambassadors can no longer afford to be silent in the face of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike’s recurring attacks on women. We have watched him over the years repeatedly abuse women in every office he has held.

“It’s an open secret that Wike constantly terrorized women during his tenure as the Chief of Staff to former Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi. Women in Rivers State faced the worst during Wike’s tenure as Governor of the state.

“He has now brought the same abusive behaviour into the FCT Ministry since he was appointed Minister. Female staff members of the ministry not only work in fear due to his abusive tendencies towards women, but some are now resigning for the sake of their sanity and mental well-being.

“If the Minister can constantly attack the Senator representing the Federal Capital Territory, Sen. Ireti Kingibe, imagine what ordinary women go through in his hands.

“Wike has repeatedly undermined the power of the FCT electorates by vowing that he would singlehandedly stop Kingibe’s re-election in 2027. He has made himself a dictator, blatantly disregarding the fact that he is just a member of President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s executive council.

“His latest attack against Sen. Ireti Kingibe is the dubious allegation that she is the one sponsoring the protest in Abuja. Whereas, it was Wike’s irresponsible comments that ignited the rage of the youth.

“At this point, it appears the Minister is deliberately trying to discredit President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his government by inciting the youth to protest. His insensitive comment, stating that youths cannot peacefully protest in the FCT under his watch, significantly contributed to the later violence of the protests.

“His anti-people’s actions pose a threat to society. The current political crisis and instability in Rivers State are a result of his selfish actions. If he is not stopped, Wike will turn the FCT into a war zone as he did in Rivers State. FCT residents, especially women and youths, have already lodged thousands of petitions against him.

“Therefore, we urge President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu to heed the people’s voices and stop tolerating Wike’s insubordination and irresponsible behaviour by dismissing him now! This is the same Wike who has been falsely claiming that he brought President Tinubu to power when, in fact, it was the President’s graciousness that pulled Wike from political oblivion by appointing him as minister.

“The President should be cautious of Wike. He has a history of betraying his benefactors. In the recent history of Rivers State, we witnessed how he betrayed and antagonized the man who propelled him to political fame, former governor Rotimi Amaechi. His betrayal often begins with clandestine actions against his benefactor and public statements, similar to what he is doing now.

“However, he will fail this time because Nigerians are now familiar with his tactics and stand firmly behind our President. While we would have requested him to resign honourably, his lack of honour prevents this, so we call on the President, once again, to dismiss Wike to prevent a national disaster and restore the confidence of women and youths in this administration.”

FG Assures of Relief from Food Inflation and Shortages Soon

The Federal Government of Nigeria has assured that the country will soon overcome its current food shortages and inflation, which have reached 40 percent, according to the National Bureau of Statistics.

In an interview on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, outlined the government’s plans to address these issues. Kyari revealed that the administration of President Bola Tinubu is implementing measures aimed at increasing food production, with expectations of a bumper harvest by October or November.

Kyari attributed the food shortages to several factors, including seasonal variations, reduced agricultural land, flooding, and other challenges. He also pointed out that the current period, from June to July, is traditionally a lean season in agriculture.

“We are confident that the bumper harvest expected later this year will help alleviate the current food shortages,” Kyari stated. “We are making significant efforts to enhance food production, including distributing fertilizers to farmers and acquiring new farming machinery.”

The minister also mentioned the government’s focus on mechanized farming to replace outdated practices. “We have ordered 200 tractors and 9,000 other implements from Belarus to modernize our farming sector,” he added. “Our goal is to move away from archaic tools like hoes and adopt more efficient farming methods.”

Algerian Teen Kaylia Nemour Makes History with Gold in Uneven Bars at Paris Olympics

Algerian gymnast Kaylia Nemour has made history by becoming the first African to win an Olympic medal in gymnastics, securing gold in the uneven bars event at the Paris Olympics on Sunday.

The 17-year-old, who was born in France, dazzled with her high-flying routines to score 15.700 points, surpassing China’s Qiu Qiyuan, who took silver with 15.500 points. American gymnast Sunisa Lee earned the bronze medal, while defending champion Nina Derwael of Belgium finished fourth.

“I’m so shocked; it’s been a lifelong dream. I can’t believe it’s actually happened,” Nemour said, expressing her disbelief and excitement.

Her remarkable performance not only achieved a historic milestone for Africa but also highlighted her exceptional talent on the global stage.