Protesters Clash with Police in Maiduguri, Borno State

Protests in Maiduguri, Borno State, turned chaotic on Thursday as demonstrators clashed with police in the Bulunkutu area. The situation intensified when officers deployed tear gas to disperse the crowd, and gunshots were heard, though no casualties have been reported.

The protesters, numbering in the hundreds, erected roadblocks, disrupting traffic and vandalizing vehicles that attempted to pass. They chanted anti-government slogans and displayed placards with messages like “Ba ma yi,” “Tinubu must go,” “End the bad governance,” and “There is hunger.”

As the protestors moved toward the Government House to voice their grievances to Governor Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, fighter jets were seen overhead. Protester Muhammad stated that they would persist despite the police’s attempts to disperse them with tear gas and gunfire.

The protest, which began early with a mix of children and adults, has gained momentum throughout the day. Security measures are being enforced to manage the situation and prevent any possible infiltration by Boko Haram. A senior security official indicated that these measures are crucial to maintaining order and ensuring public safety.

Atiku Criticizes Grain Distribution as Inadequate Response to Hunger Crisis

ABUJA – Amid Nigeria’s escalating hunger crisis, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has criticized the government’s reliance on short-term solutions, such as grain distribution, which he argues are insufficient to address the underlying issues.

In a statement released on Wednesday, Atiku called for a more comprehensive approach to tackle the food crisis, emphasizing that temporary measures fail to address the root causes of food insecurity.

“The current hunger crisis affecting millions of Nigerians, with approximately 4.4 million children suffering according to the World Food Programme (WFP), is deeply troubling,” Atiku said. “Recent reports, including those by Madina Maishanu for BBC, vividly highlight the severe conditions faced by families in Katsina State.”

Atiku argued that while grain procurement may offer temporary relief, it does not provide a sustainable solution. He urged federal and state governments to focus on long-term strategies to stabilize food security. This includes addressing food inflation, improving security to ensure safe access to food, and stabilizing the foreign exchange rate.

“A comprehensive approach is necessary,” Atiku emphasized. “We need to strengthen security, invest in agricultural development, and support farmers to prevent further displacement of communities. The government of Katsina State should particularly heed expert advice and take actionable steps to support local agriculture.”

He also highlighted the importance of collaboration with humanitarian organizations and the international community to mitigate the crisis and work towards a more secure future for all Nigerians.

“Short-term measures are not enough,” Atiku concluded. “We must implement holistic and sustainable strategies to effectively address the hunger crisis and ensure food security for every Nigerian.”

Sanwo-Olu Urges Dialogue Over Protest, Warns Against Disorder

LAGOS – Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has appealed to those planning an ‘End Bad Government’ protest in Lagos State to reconsider their plans and opt for dialogue with the government to address their concerns.

During a 20-minute address at the Governor’s Office in Alausa on Wednesday, Sanwo-Olu emphasized that protests are unnecessary given the government’s extensive efforts across various sectors to ease citizens’ hardships and promote sustainable prosperity.

While acknowledging that peaceful protests are a constitutional right and recognizing the “noble intentions” of the protesters, Sanwo-Olu issued a stern warning against those who might exploit the demonstration for nefarious purposes.

He noted that the state government had obtained and would enforce a court order restricting the protest to Peace Park and Gani Fawehinmi Park in Ojota. He urged protesters to comply with the order and limit their activities to these designated areas.

Sanwo-Olu questioned the effectiveness of the protest, asking if it would resolve the nation’s challenges within ten days or lead to economic improvements. He argued that the protest would not yield the desired outcomes but instead hinder the progress made in various socio-economic areas.

“For weeks now, the nation has faced threats of protests aimed at ending bad governance. While the original proponents may have noble intentions, the narrative that this protest could change the government outside constitutional means is troubling,” Sanwo-Olu said. “A protest now will not solve our problems but will instead undo the progress we’ve made.”

He highlighted recent government actions, such as the new Minimum Wage Bill signed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the student loan program to ease financial burdens on families, and the granting of financial autonomy to local governments to enhance grassroots governance.

Sanwo-Olu urged patience, stressing that economic reforms take time to bear fruit. He outlined several state-level initiatives aimed at mitigating hardship, including EKOCARES, which offers a 25 percent discount on basic foodstuffs through Sunday Discount Markets, and ‘Ounje Eko,’ providing relief to vulnerable households. He also mentioned the state’s monthly expenditure of N2 billion to reduce transportation costs by 25 percent and free delivery services in public health facilities.

“To support our tertiary students, we’ve increased bursary and scholarship awards, and new elementary school entrants do not pay any fees. Our lowest-paid workers have been earning more than the national minimum wage since the beginning of the year,” he added.

Sanwo-Olu warned protest organizers not to allow their lawful intentions to be hijacked by those seeking to incite violence, recalling the destructive aftermath of the 2020 EndSARS protest. He condemned the spread of false information and urged citizens to work together to build a peaceful and prosperous Lagos.

“Our strength lies in our unity. We must maintain peace and stability to achieve meaningful change. Let’s show the world that Lagos remains resilient and that the voices of its people are heard through peaceful and lawful means,” Sanwo-Olu concluded.

Nation Mourns Onyeka Onwenu: Tributes from Tinubu, Mbah, and Sanwo-Olu

ABUJA – President Bola Tinubu has joined millions of Nigerians in mourning the loss of Ms. Onyeka Onwenu, a renowned singer, songwriter, actor, journalist, activist, and politician.

In a statement released by his media aide, Ajuri Ngelale, on Wednesday, the president expressed deep sorrow over the passing of the “Queen of Songs,” whose iconic rendition of ‘One Love’ in the 1990s inspired unity and harmony. He also remembered her collaborative work with King Sunny Ade on the 1980s family planning campaign song ‘Wait for Me.’

President Tinubu lauded Onwenu’s versatile and gifted contributions to the arts, noting her ability to bring joy and laughter to many. He extended his condolences to the entertainment industry, the Imo State government, and her numerous fans, praying that her soul finds eternal peace.

“Ms. Onwenu lives on in her immortal masterpieces,” Tinubu stated.

Enugu Governor Mbah: The Nightingale Has Departed

Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah, also paid tribute to the late Onyeka Onwenu, describing her as a nightingale and a music icon. Mbah highlighted the significant losses the community has faced with the recent deaths of Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, Senator Ifeanyi Ubah, and now Onwenu.

“This is a sad development for the nation and particularly for Ndigbo,” Mbah said. “Onyeka Onwenu was a music icon, a songstress par excellence, and a nightingale personified. She was born to sing and delivered memorable performances, winning numerous awards.”

Mbah praised Onwenu’s courage, social activism, and unwavering commitment to truth, justice, and equity. He expressed comfort in knowing she lived her life to the fullest and will be remembered for generations.

Sanwo-Olu Mourns a Creative Legend

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, expressed his sorrow over the passing of Onyeka Onwenu, calling it a significant loss for Nigeria, particularly the creative industry. He extended his heartfelt condolences to the Onwenu family and the Nigerian entertainment community.

Sanwo-Olu urged her family, friends, associates, and fans to accept her death as an act of God. He emphasized the impact of her loss on the entertainment industry and Nigeria as a whole.

“The passing of the elegant stallion is a great loss to the entertainment industry and Nigeria. She will be sorely missed by family, friends, fans, and political associates,” Sanwo-Olu said, praying for her eternal peace and strength for her family to bear the loss.

Odu’a Investment Unveils New Lagos Office to Boost Expansion

LAGOS – Odu’a Investment Company Ltd. (OICL) has launched its Lagos liaison office, aiming to drive growth and extend its reach.

During the opening ceremony on Wednesday, Chief Bimbo Ashiru, Chairman of OICL, emphasized that the new office would serve as a communication hub between the holding company and the investment community.

In attendance were key figures including Odu’a Group Chairman Otunba Bimbo Ashiru, Managing Director/CEO Abdulrahman Yinusa, and other directors who celebrated the inauguration of the facility.

Ashiru highlighted that the office would house OICL’s subsidiaries, South West Agribusiness Company (SWAgCo) and South West Innovation and Tech Company (SWIT). He described the new office as a strategic asset designed to facilitate business access, enhance communication, and foster international relationships, thereby helping the company navigate the global business landscape more effectively.

The office features an executive suite, a modern board room equipped with teleconferencing technology, a lounge, meeting rooms, and kitchenettes. These facilities are intended to act as an information hub for market intelligence, research, and collaboration with potential business partners.

OICL’s Group Managing Director, Abdulrahman Yinusa, praised the board and management team for their dedication and innovation in bringing the project to fruition. He noted that the office would enable the company’s subsidiaries to engage in cross-border interactions and expand OICL’s international presence.

Dr. Seye Oyeleye, Director-General of the Development Agenda for Western Nigeria, delivered a goodwill message, underscoring the historical significance of the expansion. He reflected on Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s vision of harnessing capitalism for the greater good, with Odu’a Investments playing a crucial role in this mission.

Oyeleye expressed confidence in OICL’s growth into a global conglomerate and lauded the leadership of Ashiru, former Group Managing Director Adewale Raji, and current GMD Yinusa. He emphasized that the new office in Lagos, a key economic hub, marks a significant step towards greater achievements.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the new OICL Lagos liaison office is located on the 15th floor of Western House, Broad Street, Marina.

Minister Advocates for Peaceful Support of Tinubu’s Agenda

Bar Uju Kennedy Ohanenye, the Minister of Women Affairs, has urged mothers and youths to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, emphasizing that progress requires peace, not chaos.

During a national peace rally organized in Abuja with Niger Delta Volunteer Force leader Asari Dokubo, Ohanenye called for unity and patience, countering the upcoming #EndBadGovernance protests scheduled for August 1-10. She asserted that President Tinubu means well for Nigerians.

Dokubo echoed her sentiments at the rally, highlighting the adverse effects of protests on women and children and calling for collective support for the President.

The National Association of Nigerian Students also opposed the protests, aligning with the women’s rally and advocating for national unity and patience with the government.

“We are mothers, and we don’t want our children to die. We don’t want this protest because it shatters a country,” said Ohanenye. “I am begging Nigerians, alongside my brothers, children, and women, to understand that the narratives are about to change.”

She added, “I am pleading with Nigerians from my heart. The government is committed to fighting for women, children, and all. I can’t do this if President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was not giving me support.”

Dokubo argued that expecting the President to resolve every issue facing the nation in one year is unreasonable, as he is not a magician.

Youth Leader Urges Patience and Constructive Engagement with Tinubu’s Government

ASABA – Mr. Kelly Umukoro, the Ethnic President of Urhobo Youth Worldwide UPU (Youth Wing), has urged Urhobo youths to avoid the planned nationwide protest and give President Ahmed Tinubu’s reform policies a chance.

In an interview in Asaba, Umukoro stated that protests are often hijacked by hoodlums, leading to death and destruction of public assets. He emphasized that the federal government’s policies need time to work, adding, “policies take time to work.”

He reflected on the #EndSars protests, which left a trail of destruction and avoidable deaths, and acknowledged that while protests are a legitimate means of expressing grievances, Nigerians “should also understand the need to give the federal government a chance.”

Umukoro praised President Tinubu’s achievements over the past year but stressed that “one year is insufficient time to roll back sixty years of economic decay.” He was encouraged by the promises made at the Niger Delta Ethnic Nationalities Conference in Rivers state, indicating that President Tinubu is a responsive leader.

He expressed optimism that the federal government will meet its promises from the conference, including fixing the East/West road in six months and improving security and food security. Should the planned protest proceed, Umukoro urged Urhobo youths to organize peacefully and avoid violence.

Umukoro called on all levels of government to keep their promises to Nigerians, noting that regional leaders have put their reputations on the line to defend these commitments. He highlighted the federal government’s responsiveness to the pains of Nigerians, citing the resolution of the NNPC/Dangote issue, the N50,000 grant to 10,000 Niger Delta youths by the NDDC, and the promise to fix the East/West road.

In light of these assurances, Umukoro urged Urhobo youths to shun the planned protests and engage the government constructively. He reaffirmed their right to protest but emphasized the importance of constructive engagement, given the negative outcomes of the previous #EndSars and #EndEFCC protests.

Lawmaker Calls for Better Government Communication

Hon Babajimi Benson

ABUJA – Honourable Babajimi Benson, representing the Ikorodu Federal Constituency in Lagos State, has urged Nigerians to avoid the nationwide strike for the country’s well-being.

During a press briefing in Abuja, Benson criticized the federal government for its poor communication with citizens. He emphasized the need for greater transparency and engagement to keep the public informed about government activities and decisions.

“The critical issue we face in Nigeria is a matter of perspective,” Benson said. “People perceive things differently, leading to a significant communication problem.”

Highlighting a recent address by Professor Pate, Benson noted, “Professor Pate’s involvement in the government sends a strong signal to the international community that Nigeria is serious about its commitments. His healthcare revolution over the past year is a testament to this, but many Nigerians are unaware due to the communication gap.”

Benson expressed concern over the planned nationwide protest against hunger, fearing it could turn violent. He cited peaceful protests like those by Dangote as effective examples but warned that the upcoming demonstration might be hijacked for destructive purposes.

“We have credible intelligence showing that some people might turn this constitutional protest into riots and looting. We’ve seen this happen before,” he said. Benson recalled past incidents where President Bola Tinubu himself was a victim of riots that targeted media houses.

While acknowledging the government’s shortcomings, Benson emphasized that ongoing dialogues and credible initiatives are being overlooked due to poor communication. He stressed the importance of bridging this gap to keep Nigerians better informed and engaged.

PLANNED “HUNGER PROTEST” AN INVITATION TO CHAOS

By Rev Yakubu Pam,
Former Executive Secretary of Nigeria Christian Pilgrim Commission

Nigeria is already at the tipping point as a result of the planned “Hunger Protest” by groups of youth across the country, hashtag “EndBadGovernanceInNigeria,” slated to commence on Thursday, 1st August, 2024. Even though Nigerians have the constitional right to peaceful gathering and peaceful protest, there are strong indications that such planned protest is an invitation to chaos.

Indeed, Nigerians still have fresh memories of the tale of woes during the infamous 2020 #EndSARS rallies in the major cities in the federation which began peacefully but were later hijacked by unscrupulous elements and hoodlums who wrecked havoc and looted as well as vandalized both public and private property.
Also recall the 1988 fuel hike by the military administration of President Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida which ignited protests nation-wide which led to wanton destruction
of lives and property.

There’s no doubt that Nigeria is experiencing its worst cost of living and economic hardships, following the unavoidable and inevitable economic reforms by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The sole aim is to turn around the dwindling economic fortunes of the country before his assumption in office over a year ago. In fact, it was obvious that the nation’s economy was in comatose and needed urgent revival.

Thus, the removal of the fuel subsidy which had hitherto served as the conduit pipe to drain the nation’s resources during the successive administrations by few unpatriotic and unscrupulous Nigerians to the detriment of the wellbeing of the pauperised masses had become imperative.

The action by President Tinubu was apt because economic experts as well as the US-based World Bank and the International Monetary Fund ( IMF), including all the 2023 presidential candidates, had converged on the consensus opinion that removal of the fuel subsidy regime in Nigeria was inevitable, hence retaining it was like postponing the evil days. There could not have been any better demonstration of his good intentions for the country than the timely removal of the fuel subsidy.

Therefore, the organizers of the “Hunger Protest ” should give peace a chance and heed to the clarion calls and pleas by the federal government, religious bodies, clerics, security operatives and well-meaning Nigerians to shelve the protest. They should not allow some of the disgruntled youths and undesirable elements in their midst to be used by the opposition figures and unpatriotic Nigerians as canon fodder to thwart the ongoing economic reforms which are of necessity both now and in the future. Failing to continue the implementation of the economic reforms by the Tinubu administration will spell doom for the country and the economy will remain in deep quagmire.

The President has already put in place the necessary measures to address the myriad problems bedeviling the country’s economy and the grievances of the youths. These include students loan scheme, skills acquisition programmes, signing into of the much agitated new national minimum wage of N70,000.00, housing funds scheme and hosts of other palliative measures to cushion the pangs of economic hardships being experienced by Nigerians. Thus, determined not to bore Nigerians with overflogged fairy stories and blame game about those responsible for the economic hardships, the Tinubu administration has decided to tackle head-on the economic problems by introducing the various reforms. The downturn of the economy has put majority of Nigerians below the poverty line which is a sad irony in the oil rich country.

By and large, the planned “Hunger Protest” across the country is an ill-wind that blows nobody any good. The organizers should rather use the ample opportunity to engage the federal government in meaningful dialogue on the way out of the woods. Since nation building is always work-in-progress. What’s even more, even the developed and advanced countries currently having their fair share of the high cost of living and economic hardships. Hence ours is not an exception.

Hardship: Youths back down from protest, give Tinubu more time to deliver

ABUJA – In a surprise move, Nigerian youths have called off their planned protest and hunger strike, citing President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to addressing the country’s challenges.

A communiqué issued on Wednesday night by the youth groups revealed that the decision follows a meeting held in Abuja between representatives of ethnic youth groups, religious youth bodies, and community-based organizations.

They acknowledged the President’s efforts to address their grievances and pledged to give him more time to implement necessary changes.

The planned August 1 protest was deemed unnecessary, as the government has taken note of the youths’ concerns and is working to address them.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio’s commitment to expediting beneficial legislation was also recognized, further solidifying the decision to engage in dialogue.

Ambassador Solomon Adodo, Convener of Rising-Up for a United Nigeria, emphasized the need for continuous dialogue and collaboration with the President.

He stated that by calling off the protest, the youths demonstrated their willingness to partner with the government to navigate Nigeria’s challenges.

The communique reads, “Rising-Up for a United Nigeria convened a significant meeting with youth groups from across the nation. This gathering included representatives from ethnic youth groups, religious youth bodies, and community-based organizations. Following extensive deliberations, a collective resolution was reached regarding the current socio-political climate and the planned protests.

“We acknowledge that President Bola Tinubu has been responsive to the concerns and grievances voiced by Nigerians. In light of his ongoing efforts to address these issues, it has been determined that further protests or street demonstrations scheduled for August 1 are unnecessary and counterproductive. Any such activities at this juncture would likely escalate into riots rather than constructive protests, as the expression of displeasure has been duly noted and is being acted upon.

“Furthermore, we recognize the commitment of Senate President Godswill Akpabio to ensure that all legislative actions beneficial to the masses are expedited. On this basis, the youth structures across the country have decided to withdraw from the planned nationwide hunger protest.

“We, the prominent youth organizations, reaffirm our confidence in President Bola Tinubu’s leadership and have resolved to provide him with the necessary time and support to implement the changes needed to move Nigeria forward. We have established a platform for continuous dialogue and collaboration with the President, enabling us to contribute ideas and solutions for the nation’s progress.

“We empathize with President Tinubu, understanding the immense challenges he faces. It is our collective responsibility to partner with him in navigating these difficult times, rather than exacerbating the situation through further protests.

“Together, we believe in working towards a united and prosperous Nigeria.”