Category: News

Atiku, in a statement he personally signed yesterday, urged political elites to unite and defend the democratic process from slipping into authoritarianism.

The presidential candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the last election stated that Nigeria’s political atmosphere has become corrosive, with the ruling party allegedly manipulating internal processes to weaken opposition parties. He described the situation as a “troubling decline in electoral credibility,” lamenting that elections are increasingly being influenced by the ruling class’s whims.

He called on politicians and statesmen with integrity to step up and reclaim democracy from the encroaching shadows of oppression.

Atiku emphasised that while democracy has anchored institutions in the rule of law, Nigeria still struggles to achieve political inclusivity and ensure truly free and fair elections.

Atiku’s message also reflected on the country’s journey, stating that Nigeria’s independence was achieved through the collective efforts of the nation’s founding fathers. He appealed to the political elite to follow their example by working together to safeguard the nation’s democracy.

He urged leaders across party lines to form a credible opposition coalition that would steer the country towards a better future.

Atiku concluded by congratulating Nigerians on the country’s 64th anniversary, calling for a united effort to realise the nation’s potential. “This milestone is a tribute to the indomitable spirit of Nigerians who believe in their homeland despite numerous challenges,” he said.

Afenifere stands against centralisation

Similarly, the Pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, has vowed to resist what it described as the “undisguised policy of complete capture and absolute unitarianism” by the central government.

In a communique issued yesterday after its monthly meeting, the group expressed concerns over the growing centralisation of power, especially with the introduction of a bill to establish a National Independent Local Government Electoral Commission (NILGEC) to oversee local government elections.

Afenifere criticised this move as a step towards weakening Nigeria’s federal system, arguing that it would only multiply the inefficiencies of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The organisation vowed to mobilise democratic forces to resist any policies that undermine the federal structure. It condemned what it called “political rascality” at both the federal and state levels, accusing the current administration of pushing Nigeria towards a unitary state, which violates the country’s federalist foundation.

Afenifere’s leaders, including Pa Ayo Adebanjo, stressed that the Nigerian government, through its policies and actions, is stifling democracy.

The group also pointed to INEC’s struggles in conducting national elections, questioning how a federal body would manage 774 local government elections efficiently.

Barau, governors call for patience and patriotism

In contrast, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin called for patience with the federal government’s economic policies and emphasised the importance of unity and patriotism.

Barau, in a statement signed by his media aide, Ismail Mudashir, on Monday, also appealed to the promoters of the October 1 protest to shelve the idea. He appealed to Nigerians to support President Bola Tinubu’s administration as it works to tackle economic challenges and insecurity.

He said: “Yes, at 64, we face some challenges as a country, but we will overcome them by God’s grace. Let’s continue to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in actualising his policies and programmes. He has good intentions for the country. We will get it right.”

Barau urged Nigerians to remain united and committed to national progress.

He also expressed confidence that the Nigerian parliament would continue to support the executive in delivering good governance, including pushing forward constitutional amendments that align with the aspirations of the people.

On his part, the Katsina State governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, in his Independence Day message, called for renewed patriotism and national unity.

He congratulated Nigerians, particularly the people of Katsina, emphasising that independence is a time to reflect on both the challenges and achievements of the nation.

Governor Radda highlighted the importance of collective effort in addressing the nation’s problems, pointing out that Nigeria’s strength lies in its diversity. He also emphasised his administration’s focus on education, healthcare, economic empowerment, and security, noting the progress made in these areas.

“Our strength lies in our diversity and our shared dreams for a prosperous future,” he said.

Governor Radda reaffirmed his commitment to working with stakeholders to improve the lives of the people in Katsina and contribute to national unity. He called on Nigerians to embrace the spirit of determination and hope that characterised the country’s fight for independence.

In Bauchi, Governor Bala Mohammed similarly called for patience and cooperation as the government continues its efforts to address the economic hardship facing the country.

In his Independence Day message, Governor Bala acknowledged that while Nigeria has made significant progress since independence, the country still faces challenges in governance and economic growth.

He noted that despite these difficulties, Bauchi State has made strides in infrastructure development and security, adding that his administration is committed to improving the lives of its citizens.

The governor also reassured Bauchi residents that palliative measures implemented by both the state and federal governments to mitigate economic hardship would continue. He called on citizens to exercise patience and maintain their trust in the government’s ability to bring relief.

On his part, Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago of Niger State urged citizens to deepen their prayers for the peace and prosperity of the country.

The governor acknowledged the harsh economic realities Nigerians face but assured them that the government is making efforts to alleviate their suffering.

Governor Bago urged citizens to remain law-abiding and supportive of the government at all levels, stressing that nation-building is a collective responsibility. Daily Trust

 

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris in a chat with journalists in Abuja emphasized that the gas cylinders are bulletproof and seamless, eliminating the possibility of explosions.

The government on Sunday handed over 64 CNG-powered buses to labour unions and the National Association of Nigerian Students as part of the Presidential CNG initiative’s pilot program.

The buses, with a 100-seat capacity, will be distributed across states and campuses nationwide.

Idris said: “Yes, we considered this. There is no risk of explosion. The cylinders themselves are bulletproof. There are no joints, meaning they are not welded at any joint or parts. So, they are intact. They are safe, and you would not expect to see any explosion happening.”

Distribution and Impact

The distribution breakdown includes:

– 40 buses to labor unions

– 20 buses to student unions

– 4 buses for passenger transportation within Abuja

This initiative comes six weeks after President Bola Tinubu launched 30 hybrid-powered CNG buses donated by the Depots and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria. The program aims to provide affordable transportation, with Nigerians expected to save 60% on transportation costs due to the lower cost of CNG compared to Premium Motor Spirit.

Future Plans

The government has ordered over 700 additional buses, with plans to release 2,700 CNG-powered buses and tricycles before the end of 2024. This includes 600 buses, 2,500 tricycles, 100 conversion workshops, and 60 refueling sites across 18 states.

The minister added: “This is a necessary first step that the government has taken… It’s a promise that Mr. President has kept to Nigerians, and we know that very soon, more of these buses will ply all the roads of this country.”

“Now, let me emphasise that this is not all. Over 700 of these buses have already been ordered. These are the first sets we are giving out to symbolise the official commencement of this initiative of Mr. President. So don’t say that you only have 64 buses to cater to the whole of this country. It’s a necessary first step by government.”

Idris argued that since CNG costs far less than Premium Motor Spirit, Nigerians should expect to save 60 percent on transportation costs when the initiative goes fully operational.

“You will spend far less to fuel it. Filling the two tanks you have seen here will cost you about N15,000, as against N72,000 for petrol. It’s a drastic reduction. The private sector is already contributing.

“This is beginning from those who need it the most; the working class will get this. But beyond that, everybody will feel the impact.

“It’s a promise that Mr president has kept to Nigerians, and we know that very soon, more of these buses will ply all the roads of this country,” he concluded.

Ripples

Giving reasons, one of the lawyers to the detained August 1 protesters, Mr Deji Adeyanju, yesterday, asserted that the fresh round of protest is on the heels of the Federal Government’s failure to address protesters’ earlier demands.

Speaking with Vanguard, Adeyanju said the government intentionally kept the issues aside, adding that President Bola Tinubu’s promise to engage with protesters had not been fulfilled.

Meanwhile, the Jigawa Police command will deploy its men today in readiness for the protest, just as Lagos command met with protest organisers and assured them of security.

Also, Lagos State government said the restriction of the action to two designated venues still stands, warning that protesters will not be allowed in other areas to avoid a breakdown of law and order.

Reacting to the planned protest, the Federal Government, yesterday, urged the protesters to sheathe their swords and refrain from acts of violence.

Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, in a chat with Vanguard, said: “The Federal Government is appealing to all Nigerians to remain calm and refrain from any acts of violence as Nigeria celebrates its 64th Independence anniversary and 25 years of unbroken democracy.

“The government of President Bola Tinubu is committed to ensuring peace, unity and prosperity for all. It is also important for Nigerians to see opportunity in the various policies of the government, and use it for their betterment.”

‘Why we’ll protest’

However, Adeyanju said there is no going back on the protest because: “the issues from the August 1 nationwide peaceful protest have not been addressed, citizens have the right to protest.

“Irrespective of insinuations of government, arraignment of protesters, intimidation, and attempts to criminalize protest, citizens have insisted and expressed their rights that they must protest. It is a constitutionally guaranteed right that cannot be derogated in any circumstances.

“I believe that it is the government’s responsibility to ensure that citizens enjoy constitutionally guaranteed rights, and all must protect their rights.

“They are hitting the streets on October 1 because the protesters’ demands have not been met. Not one has been met, and even the promise by the President that ‘please shelve the protest I am going to engage with you’; none and nothing has happened. The President has refused to engage, which means that the President really takes the people for granted.”

He also said the protest would hold as planned by the organisers because “even under the military, people were allowed to protest. The police are aware of the protest, and the organisers of the ‘Take it Back Movement’ have written to the police in Lagos, Abuja, Oyo and other parts of the country. The protest is nationwide.”

Recalling that security agents during the August 1 protest arrested and remanded peaceful protesters and might repeat the actions during the October 1 protest, he said the protesters are not deterred.

“That would be the intention of government anyway but I can tell you that would not deter citizens at all in exercising their franchise. And this is an opportunity to call on citizens to blaze the trail and ensure that their rights are enforced during this October 1 protest.’’

Adeyanju also said the Police Act mandated the police to protect protesters exercising their guaranteed constitutional rights, of which protest is one.

“In fact, the police had tried to say they were inviting the protesters for a meeting but the protesters had declined; the protesters had offered a zoom meeting, which the police did not oblige.”

On the days the protest will last, he said it was only the organisers who could decide how many days the protest will last, and he added that as soon the protest commences, the organisers will give details of activities.

We’re working aggressively to release all protesters

On the issue of protesters still in prison custody and yet to be arraigned, he said: “Many have been granted bail in Abuja, Kano, Sokoto, and other places across the country but so many more are still in custody. We are working aggressively to ensure that they are all released.”

He added that they will be in court today because “they said they have plans to arraign more protesters that were arrested and not released. We are optimistic that they will keep to their words and arraign them.”

However, Adeyanju explained that meeting the N100 million condition for 10 protesters recently granted bail was not the issue but landed property requested by the court.

“No, it is not payment of monetary sum or whatsoever, the hardest part of meeting that condition was just the issue around landed property.

“We have put in an application for variation, we have met some of the demands for some of the protesters. Three protesters that could not meet the demands we have put in an application for variation and that application is coming up on Friday, October 4, 2024”, he said.

On the condition of protesters in prison custody, the human rights activist said: “They have largely been incarcerated from their loved ones and it is definitely not a palatable one but it shows that the government is tyrannical in nature, and the government can do better.”

Speaking on the efforts of the Nigerian Bar Association, NBA, to release protesters in prison custody, he asserted: “The NBA is doing a lot, even at the last adjourned date the NBA was in court on behalf of the protesters. We have been to Kano, we have done interventions in Sokoto, Lagos and other parts of the country.”

He lamented that so far, there had been “no foreign intervention on this matter. The diplomatic community has been quiet over the issue, and this is not comfortable. That is why we have called on the diplomatic community and development partners of the country to lend their voice to ensure that freedoms are exercised and citizens’ rights are not unnecessarily suppressed in the country.”

In Kogi State, the Commissioner of Police, Bethrand Onuoha, appealed to protest organisers to sheathe their swords and give more time to President Tinubu to address challenges facing the country.

In a statement by the State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Williams Anya, the CP, shortly after the organisers visited the command, appealed to them to be patient and give the Federal Government some time to fix the economy and other related demands.

The statement read: “Given the October 1 planned nationwide protest, the Commissioner of Police, Kogi State police Command, CP Bethrand Onuoha engaged with the executives of “Take It Back Movement” Kogi State chapter at the command headquarters, Lokoja.

“The CP advised the group to reconsider their planned protest and give the government more time to fix the economy of our dear Nation.

“He further stated that he called for the engagement meeting in response to their letter received on Friday, September 27, 2024.

“Leader of the group assured the CP that as enlightened and law-abiding youths in Kogi State, they accept his advice as a father and promised to remain committed to the peace, progress, and development of the state.

“Present at the meeting were DCP Chike Nwabuwa, Deputy Commissioner of Police, Operations and his Assistant, ACP Aigbe Aghahowa, SP William Ovye Aya, PPRO, SP Emmanuel Abogonye, 2-I-C SID/OC Monitoring Unit, DSP Christopher Okoebor, PA to CP, while members of the Group include Moses Opeyemi, Coordinator, Oloruntoba Segun, Muhammed Abdul, Ande Joel, Michael John, Musa Matthew, Usman Alfa, Mohammed Usman Ahmed, Ibrahim Shaibu, and Adama Shaibu.”

Lagos CP meets protest organizers

In Lagos, the Commissioner of Police, Olanrewaju Ishola, met with the protest organizers in his office at the state headquarters, Ikeja, and assured them that arrangements had been perfected with sister security agencies to provide maximum security for them and other Lagosians. He urged them to remain peaceful and law-abiding in all their actions.

CP Ishola also ordered the immediate deployment of human and operational resources across strategic locations in the state, charging the deployed officers to be professional, and civil but firm.

The protest organizers, on their part, gave assurances that they and their followers would be peaceful and law-abiding during the exercise.

In attendance at the meeting were Dabiradura Adeyinka, Alex Omotehinse, I. Tobiloba, Lawal Adewale, Adewale Ojo, Declan I., Funmi Jolade Ajayi, Akintunde Adedeji, Balogun Hameed, Aghedo Stephen, Edafe Oghenebrume, H.O.T. Duro, Isaac Obasi, Soweto, Oloye Adeniji, Aishat Omolara, Barristers Chuks Nwobi, Emmanuel Ajide., Femi Akinyemi (Falana & Falana Chambers) and Comrade Oguntunji.

We are ready for the October 1 protest —Lagos organizers

Rising from the meeting, the organisers said the protest procession will be from Ikeja to Gani Fawehinmi Freedom Park, Ojota.

Coordinator of the movement, Mr Hassan Taiwo, aka Soweto, who is also the National Coordinator, Education Rights Campaign, ERC, said: “We are ready for the October 1 protest in Lagos. As you are already aware, the #EndBadGovernance movement has declared Tuesday October 1, 2024, as a ‘National Day of Survival’ to protest the condition of hunger and hardship precipitated by Tinubu’s anti-poor and neo-liberal capitalist policies.

“Here in Lagos, the movement has also announced Ikeja Under-bridge as the take-off point and the time is 7:30am. As a movement, we wholeheartedly believe in the unity of all fighting forces as a prerequisite for a successful struggle.

“October 1, a ‘National Day of Survival.’, is a day for the Nigerian people to come together at barricades across the country to reflect on the journey of nationhood so far and make a decision on how to rescue our country from the condition of mass poverty amid abundance.

“Here in Lagos, our peaceful protest march will take place as follows: Take off point is Ikeja Under-bridge. From there, we shall march around several roads and streets of Lagos to sensitize the long-suffering people of Lagos.

“By this announcement, we are informing the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State of our planned October action. We are also by this means, informing the Police of their obligation under Section 83 (4) of the Police Establishment Act 2020 which imposes a duty on the Nigeria Police Force to provide adequate security for citizens who may wish to participate in public meetings, rallies and protests.

“We hereby call on the Nigerian people, progressive organisations, community groups, trade unions, students unions, youth groups to come out massively on October 1 in peaceful protest and demonstration.

“The October 1 action is an urgent cry to the Tinubu administration to address our demands immediately. Unless our demands are met, more protests will follow the ‘National Day of Survival.”

Demands

Some of the group’s demands include rejection of IMF neo-liberal policies; reversal of hike in fuel price and electricity tariff back to pre-May 29, 2023 levels, making government-owned refineries work to guarantee affordable fuel products, reducing food prices, supporting farmers to ensure sustainable food production, ending insecurity, banditry, terrorism and violent crimes, prosecuting culprits and their sponsors.

Others are a robust security architecture and adequate support for soldiers at the front and their families, release of Adaramoye Michael Lenin, Mosiu Sodiq, Daniel Akande and all #EndBadGovernance protesters, activists, journalists, whistle-blowers and other victims of state repression unconditionally, implement N70,000 New National Minimum wage at all levels, and reduce the cost of governance.

Other coordinators of the protest are Francis Nwapa, National Secretary, Youth Rights Campaign, YRC; Oloye Adegboyega Adeniji, Chairman, Movement for Fundamental Change, MFC; Abiodun Aremu, Secretary, Joint Action Front, JAF; and Mr Wale Balogun, National Coordinator, Yoruba Revolutionary Movement, YOREM.Vanguard

This decision, Umahi revealed during an event televised by Channels Television, is in response to economic challenges such as inflation, the floating of the naira, and the removal of fuel subsidies, all of which have significantly raised infrastructure costs.

He further explained that the Tinubu-led administration inherited 2,600 road projects valued at N13 trillion, highlighting the need to streamline resources and focus on completing four key projects per zone to ensure efficient delivery of critical infrastructure.

“This administration inherited 2,600 projects with a total cost of N13 trillion. With the floating of the naira and the fuel subsidy removal, inflation has had a significant impact.  

“What we are doing is to select a number of projects in 2025 that are ongoing. We do not intend to start new projects. So, four projects are going to be selected per zone and then put money that will see these projects completed,” Umahi said.

The Works Minister’s announcement means that in 2025, 24 road projects, four from each of Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, will be selected for completion, ensuring a more focused use of resources.

Plan to toll major roads nationwide 

The Minister of Works further elaborated that the Highway Development and Management Initiative (HDMI) has been crucial in mobilizing the private sector to take part in Nigeria’s road infrastructure development.

He emphasized that, under this initiative, 63 roads have already been engaged, with private companies financing and constructing the roads, which will then be tolled for cost recovery.

Umahi noted that the Keffi-Makurdi Road is fully completed but has not yet been opened for tolling, as the government is working closely with the Federal Ministry of Finance to implement a paperless, cashless tolling system. This modern approach to toll collection is aimed at ensuring seamless transactions and minimizing disruptions for road users.

In addition to this, the Minister confirmed that several other key road projects, including the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, Makurdi to Ninth Mile Road, and the Abuja to Kano Road, will also be tolled upon completion, ensuring these roads are properly maintained and sustained through the revenue generated from tolling.

Moreover, he highlighted that beyond the HDMI initiative, the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, which is expected to see its first section completed by May 2025, along with sections 2A and 2B of the Second Niger Bridge, will also be tolled once construction is completed, ensuring continued maintenance and financial sustainability.Nairametrics