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FG Laments Rising Price Of Cooking Gas, Ban Its Exportation

By
Akinwale Kasali
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0
Cooking Gas

By Akinwale Kasali

Disturbed by the soaring price of Cooking Gas that has made some Nigerians resort to using firewood and charcoal, the Federal Government has banned the exportation of Cooking Gas till the local demand is met.

Ekperikpe Ekpo, Minister of State Petroleum Resources, lamented that the prices of Cooking Gas has increased astronomically from N1,030 per Kilogram to N1,400 per Kilogram and above in some States, saying this has led to the ban on exportation of Liquefied Petroleum Gas, LPG, also known as Cooking Gas.

The Minister made this disclosure at a workshop in Abuja, stressing that the government was working to improve supply to the domestic market.

Ekpo said: “You have seen the demonstration by the Federal Government by withdrawing all taxes and levies from importation of gas related equipment. It is a big incentive on the issue. of LPG.

“We are interacting with the critical stakeholders to ensure that there is no exportation of LPG. All LPG produced within the country will have to be domesticated and when this is done, the volume will increase and of course, the price will automatically crash. I’m in contact with the regulator, NMDPRA (Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority), we have meetings almost on a daily basis, and the producers of the gas like Mobil, Chevron and Shell. So there is that hope that things will turn around.”

Questioned on why the removal of taxes was not reflecting on lower prices he said: “It is not going to reflect that way. We are dealing with human beings. The policy has been put in place and the investors want to maximise the profits that they are going to get from it all. At the end of the day we have to come in. That is why you have the regulator and we are interfacing with them to make sure they crash the price.”

Investigative Group Urges President Tinubu To Take Swift Action On Economic Hardship, Security Challenges

By
Akinwale Kasali
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Bola Ahmed Tinubu

By Akinwale Kasali

Perturbed by the economic hardship bedevilling the nation and series of protests across the country over the current economic crisis, an Investigative Group, the Nigerian Guild of Investigative Journalists, NGIJ, has called on President Bola Tinubu and his All Progressives Congress, APC,  led-administration to swiftly address pressing issues relating to the economy and security of the country.

The Group raised concerns over the deplorable state of the economy in which the prices of commodities have increased astronomically.

A statement issued on Friday in Abuja, jointly signed by the President and National Secretary of The Guild, Ayoyemi Mojoyinola and Abdulrahman Aliagan respectively, called on the President Tinubu led Federal Government to take actions, by putting policies in place that will change the dynamics and fortunes of the nation in earnest.

The statement partly reads: “We believe that urgent action is needed in order to prevent further deterioration of these crucial aspects of Nigerian society to avoid street protest that may have negative effect on the nation at large”, NGIJ stated.

The Group further implored the Federal Government to immediately put an end to the dollarisation of the Nigerian economy.

“We note that the excessive reliance on foreign currency has had a detrimental effect on our nation’s economic stability and is hindering the growth and development of local businesses.

“It is vital that steps are taken to promote the use of the Nigerian Naira and protect its value.

“Secondly, we request that the government formulates a comprehensive policy to mitigate the impact of the Fuel Subsidy removal. This decision has burdened Nigerian citizens with high fuel prices and has resulted in increased living costs for many. It is imperative that measures are put in place to alleviate the financial strain on the Nigerian people.”

NGIJ  expressed concern regarding the distribution of the N15,000 palliative.

“We firmly believe that this aid will be marred by corruption and will not reach those who are most in need. It is crucial that efficient and transparent mechanisms are established to ensure that relief funds reach the intended beneficiaries.

“Additionally, we urge the government to consider policies that are inclusive and benefit all Nigerians. It is imperative that measures are implemented which take into account a wide spectrum of the population, ensuring that they have access to essential services and a decent standard of living.” NGIJ maintained.

The Guild pointed out that the issue of insecurity in Nigeria has reached extreme levels, causing distress and fear among citizens.

“No place is safe, and urgent action must be taken to address this matter effectively.

“We call upon the government to prioritise the security of its people and implement strategies that can restore peace and stability throughout the nation.

“Finally, as a body of Journalists, we implore President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to provide sustainable solutions that will guide Nigeria out of its current economic and security quagmire. It is crucial that decisive action is taken to steer the country back onto the right track, both economically and in terms of security.” It said.

It added that the Guild stands ready to support the Government in addressing these critical issues and will remain vigilant in ensuring that the interests of the Nigerian people are upheld.

“We, therefore, call on the President  to consider our recommendations and take immediate action to propel Nigeria forward towards economic prosperity and security of lives and property in Nigeria.”, the statement concluded.

Edo APC Primary: It’s Okpebholo, Fmr Gov Oshiomole’s Anointed, Idahosa Loses

By
Ayodele Oni
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By Ayodele Oni

The Lawmaker representing Edo Central Senatorial District, Monday Okpebholo has been declared winner of Edo state All Progressives Congress (APC) Governorship direct primary election.

Cross River State Governor Bassey Otu, who was the Chairman of Edo APC shadow poll, made the declaration after collating results from the 18 Local Government Areas on Friday.

The collation and declaration were made at Lushville Hotel and Suites, Gapiona Avenue, Government Reservation Area (GRA), Benin.

Okpebholo polled 12,433 votes to defeat the representative of Ovia constituency in the House of Representatives, Dennis Idahosa, who scored 6,541 votes.

Idahosa, perceived favourite of former Governor Adams Oshiomole was earlier declared winner on Tuesday, by the Committee led by Imo state Governor, Hope Uzodinma.

Following protests and rejection which trailed outcome, Uzodinma, was removed as Chairman of the Edo State Gubernatorial Election Committee and replaced with Otu.

“You Now Have Your Turn, Opportunity Has Been Given You Now, Act Fast To Reduce Hardship” – Bishop To Tinubu At Akeredolu’s Funeral

By
Ayodele Oni
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0

By Ayodele Oni

Officiating Ministers of God at the final burial service of the late former Governor of Ondo state, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu temporarily put aside the main programme to delve into the current hardship confronting Nigerians.

Anglican Bishop of Ikwerre, in Rivers state, Most Rev’d Dr Blessing Enyindah  told President Bola Tinubu to act fast and address the increasing hardship facing Nigerians as time is no longer on his side.

Enyindah, who preached the sermon  at the Funeral Service for the late  Governor of Ondo State, at St Andrews Cathedral Church Imola, Owo, Ondo state declared that “May I, on behalf of Nigerians, pray and call on the President, Senator Bola Tinubu to do something to reduce the hardship being faced by Nigerians.

“We have the hope he would do it because he promised us renewed hope and according to him, it is his turn, so the turn and opportunity have been given to him now. We are waiting and expecting the fulfilment of the renewed hope.

“We plead with him to do it fast because time, that is four or eight years as the case may be, is brief and the time is running.”

The Funeral service for late former governor of Ondo state Mr Oluwarotimi Akeredolu at Saint Andrews Church Imola Owo is graced by hundreds of sympathisers from all walks of life that turned up at the cathedral.

The Vice President Kashim Shettima who represented the President led others, including Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, late Akeredolu’s wife, Mrs Betty Anyanwu Akeredolu and children, Ekiti state Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, Edo state Governor, Goodwin Obaseki, former Governors of Ondo state, Dr Olusẹgun Mimiko, that of Ogun State, Gbenga Daniel and  Ibikunle Amosun, former Ekiti State Governor , Kayode Fayemi, APC National Chairman, Dr Ganduje, wife of late Prophet Temitope Joshua, Pastor Evelyn Joshua, Political appointees, and members bodies of benchers.

Obi Advises On N1.1 Trillion Largesse To Governors, Seeks Judicious Investment

By
The Source
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Peter Obi

The main opposition voice and the Labour Party Presidential Candidate in last year’s general election,  Peter Obi has offered advice to state Governors on how to utilize the N30b given to each of the 36 state governors to help ameliorate the hardship in the country.

The huge sum announced recently by Senate President Senator Godswill Akpabio was intended to help the Governors address the restiveness in the land as a result of the harsh economic situation in the country.

Obi writing in his X handle said,  “Recently, the Senate President,  Senator Godswill Akpabio announced that a staggering financial support of N1.1 trillion, amounting to a sum of N30 billion each was doled out to the State Governors to help ameliorate the present hardship in the country.

“While the Federal Government is to be commended for making such a huge support, considering the difficult times people are going through, it is pertinent, for the interest of good governance and transparency, that the details of the disbursement of such support be explained further, so that the public, the masses for who the support is meant, can follow through and ensure that it is utilized appropriately to the benefit of the people.

“While waiting for such details, I appeal that concerted efforts should be made to ensure that the resources are genuinely and transparently invested in productive ventures to alleviate present hardship and help the future growth of the country.

“We must stop throwing our scarce and borrowed resources at immediate problems, and consumption, but rather through an articulated plan, invest aggressively in production, in a clear, visible, and transparent manner, in which people can see the future benefits.

“Now than ever, our nation needs a separate move from consumption to production by prioritizing and investing in human development which will go towards providing a sure and lasting solution to many of our challenges of today, and put us on a path of developmental growth. This is the New Nigeria we are clamouring for.
PO.

Hunger: Customs Makes U-turn; To Now Sell Seized Rice To Nigerians

By
James Orji
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Wale Adeniyi, the Comptroller General of the Nigerian Customs Service, NCS, has explained the modalities for the sharing of seized goods to Nigerians.

The magazine reports that the NCS promised to distribute some impounded commodities to Nigerians as part of its collaborative effort with the federal government to reduce hunger in the country due to the hike in the price of goods and essential households’ commodities.

Not a few Nigerians were happy following the announcement, because of the relief they thought they would get from receiving the goods.

They are now disappointed after the customs boss said the goods would now be sold to Nigerians.

According to Adeniyi, the impounded good would now be auctioned at cheaper rates at designated Customs Area Commands across the country to some categories of Nigerians who need them.

The Customs boss said, “The target groups included artisans, teachers, nurses, religious bodies, and other Nigerians within our operational areas.

“The intention is to reach out directly to members through these organised structures to ensure the maximum impact of this exercise,” Adeniyi added.

“It is imperative that beneficiaries of this exercise understand that the items are not to be resold. We take a strong stance against any form of profiteering or exploitation of this initiative.

“We urge Nigerians to report any incidents of misuse or unauthorised resale of the seized food items,” he said.

“We will not hesitate to take decisive action against any individuals or entities found to be in violation of the terms of this program,” the customs asserted.

“We are here to shed light on the commitment of the NCS to protecting our society by ensuring the availability of essential food items. In recent months, the government has been addressing the challenges faced within our economy.”

Cooking Gas: FG Meets IOCs On Price, Stops Export

By
Tosin Olatokunbo
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0

The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas) Ekperikpe Ekpo, says the federal government is considering halting the export of gas in other to ensure local sufficiency.

The minister spoke following the high cost of cooking gas across the country, blamed on the insufficient supply of the product by marketers.

For instance, a 12.5 kilogramme cylinder is now sold for N14,000, in most part of the country while marketers of the product have predicted a potential hike in price to as much as N18,000 before the middle of the year.

Not a few Nigerians insist that they should enjoy the benefit of the country as one of the major gas producers in the world.

Majority of Nigerians use gas for domestic and commercial cooking.

Following the high cost of Kerosene in the few years ago, many Nigerians migrated to gas for their domestic and commercial cooking, particularly after the government said it would subsidize the price for gas to make it affordable for Nigerians.

Obviously, that has not happened as the price of gas has now gone beyond the affordability of not a few Nigerians who are have been forced to seek other means.

Ekpo said in Abuja yesterday that the government has directed LPG producers to stop exporting gas as part of the key decisions to mitigate the high cost of the commodity.

The minister also some international oil companies such as  Mobil, Shell and Chevron are currently interfacing with the federal government on how to bring the price of cooking gas down.

He said: “On the issue of LPG (cooking gas), we are interacting with the critical sectors to ensure that there is no exportation of LPG. All LPG produced within the country will have to be domesticated. And when this is done, the volume will increase and, of course, the price will automatically crash.

“I’m in contact with the regulator, NMDPRA, we have meetings almost on a daily basis and with the producers of the gas like Mobil, Chevron and Shell. So there is that hope that things will turn around.

“And that is also why we are having this engagement to know exactly what the problems are, so that we can address them once and for all.”

Tinubu Adamant, Says No Going Back On Fuel Subsidy Removal, Naira Floating

By
Tosin Olatokunbo
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0
Bola Ahmed Tinubu

 

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has insisted that the economic reforms embarked upon by his administration is the best for the country, and there is no going back.

The made this known in Aso Villa, Abuja, the nation’s capital on Thursday at a meeting with a delegation from the Corporate Council on Africa, CCA led by Florizelle Liser.

This is contained in a statement issued by Ajuri Ngelale, Special Adviser to the President on Media & Publicity.

Recall that some reforms introduced by President Tinubu, such as the removal of fuel subsidy and the floating of the Naira, amongst other policies have brought untold hardship to not a few Nigerians who are now calling for their reversal.

Experts have blamed the two policies, which they considered not well thought out to be behind the current economic hardship, particularly the high cost of food and other essential commodities in the country.

in their reactions, hundred of Nigerians have moved to the street in protest in the last few days, calling on the administration to intervene. 

The Organised Labour under the aegis of the Nigerian Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress, TUC, are on the verge of embarking on a strike in less than two weeks to express their dissatisfaction with the situation of things in the country.   

In spite of the outburst among Nigerians, the president has insisted that the policies would turn the country around economically.

Tinubu was quoted to have said: “We are right in the middle of a challenging stage of our reforms. We have headwinds, no doubt, but we are not going back.

“We are challenged, and we believe we will overcome the challenges. I have a can-do attitude that must be translated into a must-do attitude. We have a good team, and we must remain focused to get the goal accomplished.”

Obi Faults Arbitrary Arrest Of Abure

By
The Source
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0
Peter Obi and Julius Abure

The main Opposition voice in the Country and the Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 general election,  Peter Obi has decried the rude and discourteous manner the Nigeria Police operatives handled the arrest of the Labour Party National Chairman,  Bar Julius Abure on Wednesday in Edo State.

Obi said that there could have been a better way to handle this to show we are civilized and in a democracy.

Writing in his X handle platform the LP standard bearer said “Like many Nigerians, I observed the distasteful national television news reports detailing the humiliating arrest of the National Chairman of the Labour Party, Barrister Julius Abure, earlier today in Benin City,  Edo state.

“Throughout my roles as a private individual, public figure, Governor, and Presidential candidate, I consistently advocated for the paramount importance of upholding the rule of law in any sane society.

“I firmly believe that, as citizens, we are all duty-bound irrespective of our status in society to respond to invitations from properly constituted authority.

“My stance on this matter remains unwavering but does not explain watching the distressing image of our National Chairman lying on the ground in the name of arrest.

“This act is undesirable and unequivocally intolerable and must be condemned by any decent and civilized mind within the context of our present civic landscape in Nigeria.

“These deplorable actions epitomize the pinnacle of rascality and serve to egregiously tarnish the already delicate perception of our nation as one plagued by lawlessness. Such behaviour must be not only denounced but also actively addressed to uphold the principles of justice and respect within our society.

“Regarding the circumstances surrounding Mr. Abure’s arrest, it is crucial to emphasize that while constitutional authorities must be allowed to execute their statutory functions, officers must adhere to due process and established arrest procedures, embody civility, decorum, respect for the dignity and rights of citizens, and, above all, the presumption of innocence.

“It is crucial to emphasize that as a leader within the Labour Party, Mr. Abure represents, both personally and statutorily, as the incumbent Chairman of the LP, the face of political opposition in Nigeria. It is imperative to reiterate that no pretext or subterfuge should be employed to stifle Nigeria’s political opposition. Therefore, I urge that he should be granted bail based on his status while the investigation continues. – PO”

Governor Makinde Faults Senate President, Akpabio On N30 Billion Largesse To States

By
Ayodele Oni
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0

By Ayodele Oni

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, has faulted statement credited to the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio that the Federal government through the Federal Inland Revenue, (FIRS) gave N30 billion to each state for food security.

Makinde, who is vice chairman Nigeria Governors’ Forum, (NGF) maintained that by virtue of his position, he could speak for himself and other governors in the country that no such money was disbursed to any State.

He maintained that nothing like that transpired between states and FIRS and that the statement was a mere propaganda.

Makinde, who spoke in Iseyin area of Oyo State on Thursday, during the commissioning of the renovated  Central Mosque, wondered why the President of the Senate would rely on an unconfirmed report.

Makinde stated that the FIRS cannot give any money to any state, and that all revenues go directly into the federation account where allocations are given to all the tiers of government.

Godswill Akpabio - Senate President
Godswill Akpabio

“I can speak for Oyo State and I can also speak for any of my colleagues because as the Vice Chairman of Nigeria Governors’ Forum, I know when things happen. And if we want to play politics, we will keep quiet and say let it slide, but we are not going to let this slide.

“First, FIRS cannot give any money to any state, it is not possible. All revenue accruing to our country goes into the federation account and it is distributed to all the tiers of government.

“The federal government does not give money to the states, the money in the federation account belong to all of us, and it is not only to the federal government.

“If the Senate President, the number three citizen in this country would rely on unverified report, people are looking at us as leaders.

“This is the period we are supposed to give confidence to our people, it is not the time to start playing politics and to start looking for scape goat.

“We need to engage with our people, if our policies are not working, we need to listen to them and amend.

“If the number three citizen says this is an unverified report, why does he need to say it then, does that gives confidence to our people or does it solve the problem of hunger and anger in our land?

“Let me say it clearly, for Oyo State and my colleagues, there is nothing like N30b being given for food security to the states and I stand to be challenged.”

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