Author: Ifeanyi N.

During the 2024 World Environmental Day celebration held in Kuto, Abeokuta, Ogun State Commissioner for Health, Tomi Coker, urged residents to prioritize their health by refraining from dumping waste in rivers and drainages, which contributes to the spread of diseases such as cholera. Coker emphasized the intrinsic connection between the environment and human health, underscoring that improper waste disposal adversely impacts public health. In her address, Coker stated, “We can’t address environmental issues without considering their impact on health. Improper waste disposal leads to health hazards, including diarrheal diseases.” Highlighting the dire consequences of indiscriminate waste disposal, Coker warned, “Dumping…

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In a significant development, the Nigerian government has announced the resumption of freight services on the old narrow gauge rail line from Lagos to Kano, scheduled for Thursday, following its successful rehabilitation. The statement was issued on Thursday by Sen. Saidu Ahmed Alkali, Minister of Transportation, who highlighted President Bola Tinubu’s role in officially launching the reopening of the corridor for freight. The Ministry of Transportation conducted a trial run, moving import containers from Apapa Port in Lagos to Dala Inland Dry Port in Kano, and successfully transported numerous 40 ft containers from Lagos to Kano within a few days.…

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In anticipation of the forthcoming Edo State governorship election, the All Progressives Congress (APC) has unveiled its 256-member State Campaign Council, appointing former governor Adams Oshiomhole as Chairman. Acting Chairman, Jarrett Tenebe, made the announcement in a statement released on Wednesday in Benin. Sen. Matthew Urhoghide was named as the Campaign Council Director-General (DG), while Mr. Joe Ugheoke was appointed as Campaign Council Secretary. Among the notable members are Peter Akpatason, designated as Deputy Director-General (DDG) for Operations, and Mike Onolememen, named Deputy Director-General (DDG) for Administration. Tenebe also disclosed the appointment of Chief Lucky Imasuen, Odi Okogie, and Abu…

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In a recent development, former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Mr. Peter Obi, has rebuffed the party’s endeavor to establish a directorate for the ‘Obidient Movement.’ Obi adamantly declared that the ‘Obidient Movement’ does not align with any specific political entity. The Labour Party had recently appointed eight individuals to spearhead the activities of the ‘Obidient’ Directorate. This move was framed as part of the party’s strategic efforts to assimilate millions of Nigerian youths, particularly those affiliated with the ‘Obidient’ family, into the broader party fold. However, Mr. Peter Obi, via a statement released on Wednesday through his official…

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The Tripartite Committee on Minimum Wage has resumed discussions regarding a new minimum wage for workers across Nigeria. The committee is currently convening at the NICON Luxury Hotel in Abuja. Representatives from the Federal Government include Wale Edun, the Minister of Finance; Atiku Bagudu, the Minister of Budget and National Planning; Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, the Minister of Labour; along with representatives from the Secretary to the Government of the Federation and the Head of Service of the Federation. Leading the organized labour delegation are Joe Ajaero, President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), and Festus Osifo, President of the Trade Union…

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Benjamin Kalu, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, disclosed President Bola Tinubu’s keen interest in bolstering the political landscape of the South-East. Kalu made this revelation during a meeting with stakeholders of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abia State on Tuesday. Addressing party leaders and members, Kalu urged for the dissolution of existing factions within the party to foster unity and advance the party’s interests. He emphasized, “I don’t believe in factions. Everyone is my brother and friend. We are one family. Those talking about factions should have a rethink. Stop talking about factions and allow…

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Israel Ayeni, the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) governorship candidate for the November 16 election in Ondo State, has officially withdrawn from the race. Ayeni secured the party’s ticket after polling 100 votes, defeating his sole rival, Prof. Ibrahim Ajagunna, during the party’s primary held on April 26. In a letter addressed to journalists in Akure on Wednesday, Ayeni cited his withdrawal as being in the best interest of the NNPP. “I, Ayeni Oluwatosin Israel, the governorship candidate of NNPP for the November 16, 2024, election in Ondo State, hereby voluntarily withdraw my candidacy from the contest. My withdrawal is…

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Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), revealed that the party’s e-membership registration will now serve as a pivotal reference point for members seeking appointments or aspiring to contest elections. Speaking at the inauguration of the e-membership registration train-the-trainer workshop in Abuja on Wednesday, Ganduje emphasized the commencement of the party’s digitalization process through e-membership registration. Ganduje, who had pledged a departure from conventional practices during his inaugural speech in August 2023, highlighted the establishment of a progressive institute for member training and the initiation of e-membership registration. The chairman underscored that the objective of…

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In a recent statement, the National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) clarified that it is not currently engaged in any discussions regarding a merger, fusion, or amalgamation with any other political entity. The declaration comes in response to speculations fueled by talks from PDP’s 2023 presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, about forming a coalition with Labour Party’s counterpart, Peter Obi, and other political factions. Yunusa Tanko, spokesperson for the defunct Obi-Datti presidential campaign council, emphasized that Obi is not inclined towards any merger solely aimed at gaining political leverage. Despite this, PDP reaffirmed its willingness to welcome…

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Shehu Sani, former Senator and Civil Rights Activist, has voiced concern over the increasing incidents of manhood cutting stemming from domestic disputes among couples in Nigeria. His comments come in the wake of a recent case in Kaduna where a housewife reportedly severed her husband’s manhood. In an interview with the media in Abuja on Wednesday, Sani emphasized the urgent need for stringent legislation against such acts within the country. He highlighted the escalating trend of violence targeting men’s genitals, advocating for legal protection to prevent such abuses. Sani condemned the actions of the Kaduna housewife, labeling them as a…

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Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), has underscored the necessity for collective efforts to eradicate criminal elements from Delta State and its environs. This statement was made during a courtesy visit to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State in Asaba, where Abubakar stressed the importance of effective civil-military cooperation to maintain peace and security. The remarks were conveyed in a statement issued by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Nigerian Air Force (NAF), AVM Edward Gabkwet, in Abuja on Wednesday. Abubakar highlighted the vital role of a peaceful environment in fostering meaningful development, emphasizing…

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Muhammad Dalijan, the Zamfara State Police Commissioner, has disclosed the apprehension of a member of the State House of Assembly, a former local government chairman, and a district head in connection with banditry activities within the state. The revelation was made during a meeting with Thomas Parker, the officer in charge of the Counterterrorism Unit under the United Nations Office On Drugs and Crime (UNODC), held at the command headquarters in Gusau, the state capital. While withholding the identities of the individuals involved, Dalijan urged the UN to assist in establishing a forensic laboratory within the state. He emphasized the…

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The Adamawa State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has unveiled its timetable for the upcoming local government elections, following closely after the release of the general timetable by the Adamawa State Independent Electoral Commission (ADSIEC), setting July 13 as the election date. During a press briefing in Yola, the PDP announced the nomination and expression of interest fees for potential candidates. Chairmanship aspirants will pay a total of N10 million for forms, comprising N9 million for the nomination form and N1 million for the expression of interest form. Councillorship aspirants, on the other hand, will purchase their forms…

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In a recent statement, the Omoluabi Progressives, a faction within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State, has urged its members to remain steadfast amidst criticism of the party’s progressive ideals. The faction, represented by Abosede Oluwaseun, the Organising and Publicity Secretary, emphasized the importance of unity and commitment to the party’s values amidst ongoing registration activities. Oluwaseun highlighted the significant turnout for registration, calling on more citizens to align with the party’s vision. He stressed inclusivity, welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds to join the movement aimed at revitalizing Osun State. However, the faction did not shy away from…

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In a disturbing turn of events, Antsa village in Makurdi Local Government Area of Benue State fell victim to a brazen bandit attack on Tuesday, resulting in six individuals sustaining injuries. Antsa village, known for hosting the Joseph Saarwuan Tarka University, JOSTUM, Makurdi, was the unfortunate target of this violent assault. Reports indicate that the assailants descended upon the community around 1:00 am, catching some late-working traders off guard in their shops. An anonymous source revealed that the bandits launched a ruthless attack on the residents, leaving several individuals hospitalized. Shockingly, six victims bore severe bodily wounds, with one even…

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The Nigerian Senate has strongly criticized the shutdown of the national grid by members of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) amid ongoing protests for an increase in the minimum wage. The organized labour, led by the NLC and TUC, initiated a nationwide strike on Monday to demand a higher minimum wage for workers. Despite the federal government’s initial offer of N60,000, which was rejected by labour leaders, the strike persisted, resulting in widespread disruption of economic activities across the nation. The strike action led to the paralysis of essential services, including banks, schools, government offices,…

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In a recent address today in Asaba, Dennis Guwor, the speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, emphasized that the Assembly fully supports local government autonomy, asserting that it is a constitutional matter. Guwor provided a detailed breakdown of the Assembly’s legislative achievements over the past year as the 8th Assembly marked its first anniversary. Guwor revealed that the Assembly has passed a total of 18 bills, with nine already signed into law by the state governor. Among these bills are key pieces of legislation such as the Appropriation Bill 2024, Delta State Merit Award Bill 2023, Delta State…

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In a press briefing held in Port Harcourt on Tuesday, the Chairman of the Caretaker Committee of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State, Chief Tony Okocha, vehemently denied circulating rumors suggesting he had reversed his stance to congratulate Governor Siminalayi Fubara on his one-year anniversary in office. Dismissing the claims as baseless, Okocha emphasized his refusal to extend felicitations to what he described as a government in critical condition, stating, “It is impossible for me to congratulate an administration that is in ‘ICU.'” Furthermore, Okocha condemned the purported report, asserting it was a deliberate attempt to tarnish his…

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President Bola Tinubu has issued a 48-hour ultimatum to the Minister of Finance, Wale Edun, demanding a detailed assessment of the financial implications surrounding the implementation of the new minimum wage. This directive was disclosed by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, following a high-level meeting between the negotiation team and President Tinubu at the State House in Aso Rock. During the briefing with State House Correspondents, Idris emphasized the commitment of all parties involved to collaborate with organized labor in crafting a viable solution within the next week. He stated, “All parties to the negotiation of…

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Governor Umo Eno has launched a verification process to assess projects completed by local government Transition Committee leaders across the state’s 31 council areas. A statement from the Secretary to the State Government’s office announced the initiative. Teams composed mainly of government commissioners and some House members will submit their findings by tomorrow, June 5th. This action follows the appointment of Transition Committees six months ago, after the terms of elected officials expired. Local government funding reportedly increased during this period, prompting the Governor to seek accountability for these allocated funds. Governor Eno reportedly conducted personal visits to local governments…

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