Another heartbreaking incident unfolded in Imo State on Saturday evening when unidentified gunmen fatally shot Hyginus Ohazurike, the President-General of Umucheke Okwe autonomous community in Onuimo Local Government Area of Imo State.
Additionally, six village heads from the autonomous community were also reported to have been killed by the assailants.
A resident of the community, speaking on the condition of anonymity, informed journalists that the gunmen, who were traveling in a vehicle, carried out the attack while the victims were gathered for a meeting in the community.
The source revealed, “Gunmen have just killed the President-General of Umucheke Okwe autonomous community and six village heads.
The President-General and the village heads were meeting at the President-General’s shop in the community market when the attackers struck.”
Describing the harrowing event, the source continued, “Upon arrival, the gunmen opened fire, resulting in the tragic deaths of all the community leaders present, and they set the area ablaze before fleeing the scene.” Expressing deep concern, the source emphasized that the motive behind the attack remains unknown.
Following the appalling incident, residents of the village have fled their homes in fear. Emeka Obi, the sole administrator of the local government area, confirmed the tragic deaths and assured constituents that he was addressing the situation. He condemned the killings and urged the community to remain calm during this difficult time.
As of the time of reporting, the spokesperson for the Imo State Police Command, Henry Okoye, had not yet responded to inquiries.
It is worth noting that a previous attack by gunmen in the same community had resulted in the deaths of a ward chairman of the All Progressives Congress and seven others.
In the past week, a series of tragic incidents unfolded in different communities across Owerri, the state capital. On Monday, unidentified assailants mercilessly took the lives of four policemen and a Point of Sale operator in Irette community along the Owerri – Onitsha expressway.
Another distressing event occurred on the same day when armed individuals attacked Umuelemai junction in Isiala Mbano Local Government Area, resulting in the death of one individual and the destruction of a vehicle by setting it ablaze.
The following day, Tuesday, marked yet another grim chapter as gunmen fatally shot businessman Okey Nze, also known as Wealthy Empire, at Amawire junction in Orji community, Owerri North Local Government Area.
Simultaneously, in Nworieubi community within the Mbaitoli Local Government Area, gunmen tragically ended the lives of policeman OC Ireozor and community chief Paulinus Mbakwe on that fateful Tuesday.
BROADCAST BY HIS EXCELLENCY BOLA AHMED TINUBU, PRESIDENT AND COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF OF THE ARMED
FORCES OF THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA ON THE NATIONWIDE PROTEST
DATE: SUNDAY 4TH AUGUST 2024
My fellow Nigerians,
1. I speak to you today with a heavy heart and a sense of responsibility, aware of the turmoil and violent protests unleashed in some of our states.
2. Notably among the protesters were young Nigerians who desired a better and more progressive country where their dreams, hopes, and personal aspirations would be fulfilled.
3. I am especially pained by the loss of lives in Borno, Jigawa, Kano, Kaduna and other states, the destruction of public facilities in some states, and the wanton looting of supermarkets and shops, contrary to the promise of protest organisers that the protest would be peaceful across the country. The destruction of properties sets us back as a nation, as scarce resources will be again used to restore them.
4. I commiserate with the families and relations of those who have died in the protests. We must stop further bloodshed, violence and destruction.
5. As President of this country, I must ensure public order. In line with my constitutional oath to protect the lives and property of every citizen, our government will not stand idly by and allow a few with a clear political agenda to tear this nation apart.
6. Under the circumstances, I hereby enjoin protesters and the organisers to suspend any further protest and create room for dialogue, which I have always acceded to at the slightest opportunity. Nigeria requires all hands on deck and needs us all – regardless of age, party, tribe, religion or other divides, to work together in reshaping our destiny as a nation. To those who have taken undue advantage of this situation to threaten any section of this country, be warned: The law will catch up with you. There is no place for ethnic bigotry or such threats in the Nigeria we seek to build.
7. Our democracy progresses when the constitutional rights of every Nigerian are respected and protected. Our law enforcement agencies should continue to ensure the full protection of lives and properties of innocent citizens in a responsible manner.
8. My vision for our country is one of a just and prosperous nation where each person may enjoy the peace, freedom, and meaningful livelihood that only democratic good governance can provide – one that is open, transparent and accountable to the Nigerian people.
9. For decades, our economy has remained anaemic and taken a dip because of many misalignments that have stunted our growth. Just over a year ago, our dear country, Nigeria, reached a point where we couldn’t afford to continue the use of temporary solutions to solve long-term problems for the sake of now and our unborn generations. I therefore took the painful yet necessary decision to remove fuel subsidies and abolish multiple foreign exchange systems which had constituted a noose around the economic jugular of our Nation and impeded our economic development and progress.
10. These actions blocked the greed and the profits that smugglers and rent-seekers made. They also blocked the undue subsidies we had extended to our neighbouring countries to the detriment of our people, rendering our economy prostrate. These decisions I made were necessary if we must reverse the decades of economic mismanagement that didn’t serve us well. Yes, I agree, the buck stops on my table. But I can assure you that I am focused fully on delivering the governance to the people – good governance for that matter.
11. In the past 14 months, our government has made significant strides in rebuilding the foundation of our economy to carry us into a future of plenty and abundance. On the fiscal side, aggregate government revenues have more than doubled, hitting over 9.1 trillion Naira in the first half of 2024 compared to the first half of 2023 due to our efforts at blocking leakages, introducing automation and mobilising funding creatively without additional burden on the people. Productivity is gradually increasing in the non-oil sector, reaching new levels and taking advantage of the opportunities in the current economic ambience
12. My dear brothers and sisters, we have come this far. Coming from a place where our country spent 97% of all our revenue on debt service; we have been able to reduce that to 68% in the last 13 months. We have also cleared legitimate outstanding foreign exchange obligations of about $5billion without any adverse impact on our programmes.
13. This has given us more financial freedom and the room to spend more money on you, our citizens, to fund essential social services like education and healthcare. It has also led to our State, and Local Governments receiving the highest allocations ever in our country’s history from the Federation Account.
14. We have also embarked on major infrastructure projects across the country. We are working to complete inherited projects critical to our economic prosperity, including roads, bridges, railways, power, and oil and gas developments. Notably, the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and Sokoto-Badagry Highway projects will open up 16 connecting states, creating thousands of jobs and boosting economic output through trade, tourism and cultural integration
15. Our once-declining oil and gas industry is experiencing a resurgence on the back of the reforms I announced in May 2024 to address the gaps in the Petroleum Industry Act. Last month, we increased our oil production to 1.61million barrels per day, and our gas assets are receiving the attention they deserve. Investors are coming back, and we have already seen two Foreign Direct Investments signed of over half a billion dollars since then.
16. Fellow Nigerians, we are a country blessed with both oil and gas resources, but we met a country that had been dependent solely on oil-based petrol, neglecting its gas resources to power the economy. We were also using our hard-earned foreign exchange to pay for, and subsidise its use. To address this, we immediately launched our Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (CNG) to power our transportation economy and bring costs down. This will save over two trillion Naira a month, being used to import PMS and AGO and free up our resources for more investment in healthcare and education.
17. To this end, we will be distributing a million kits of extremely low or no cost to commercial vehicles that transport people and goods and who currently consume 80% of the imported PMS and AGO.
18. We have started the distribution of conversion kits and setting up of conversion centres across the country in conjunction with the private sector. We believe that this CNG initiative will reduce transportation costs by approximately 60 per cent and help to curb inflation.
19. Our administration has shown its commitment to the youth by setting up the student loan scheme. To date, 45.6billion Naira has already been processed for payment to students and their respective institutions
20. I encourage more of our vibrant youth population to take advantage of this opportunity. We established the Consumer Credit Corporation with over N200billion to help Nigerians to acquire essential products without the need for immediate cash payments, making life easier for millions of households. This will consequently reduce corruption and eliminate cash and opaque transactions. This week, I ordered the release of an additional N50billion Naira each for NELFUND – the student loan, and Credit Corporation from the proceeds of crime recovered by the EFCC
21. Additionally, we have secured $620million under the Digital and Creative Enterprises (IDiCE) – a programme to empower our young people, creating millions of IT and technical jobs that will make them globally competitive. These programmes include the 3Million Technical Talents scheme. Unfortunately, one of the digital centres was vandalised during the protests in Kano. What a shame!
22. In addition, we have introduced the Skill-Up Artisans Programme (SUPA); the Nigerian Youth Academy (NIYA); and the National Youth Talent Export Programme (NATEP).
23. Also, more than N570 billion has been released to the 36 states to expand livelihood support to their citizens, while 600,000 nano-businesses have benefitted from our nano-grants. An additional 400,000 more nano-businesses are expected to benefit.
24. Furthermore, 75,000 beneficiaries have been processed to receive our N1million Micro and Small Business single-digit interest loans, starting this month. We have also built 10 MSME hubs within the past year, created 240,000 jobs through them and 5 more hubs are in progress which will be ready by October this year.
25. Payments of N1billion each are also being made to large manufacturers under our single-digit loans to boost manufacturing output and stimulate growth.
26. I signed the National Minimum Wage into law last week, and the lowest-earning workers will now earn at least N70,000 a month.
27. Six months ago in Karsana, Abuja, I inaugurated the first phase of our ambitious housing initiative, the Renewed Hope City and Estate. This project is the first of six we have planned across the nation’s geopolitical zones. Each of these cities will include a minimum of 1,000 housing units, with Karsana itself set to deliver 3,212 units
28. In addition to these city projects, we are also launching the Renewed Hope Estates in every state, each comprising 500 housing units. Our goal is to complete a total of 100,000 housing units over the next three years. This initiative is not only about providing homes but also about creating thousands of jobs across the nation as well as stimulating economic growth.
29. We are providing incentives to farmers to increase food production at affordable prices. I have directed that tariffs and other import duties should be removed on rice, wheat, maize, sorghum, drugs, and other pharmaceutical and medical supplies for the next 6 months, in the first instance, to help drive down the prices.
30. I have been meeting with our Governors and key Ministers to accelerate food production. We have distributed fertilisers. Our target is to cultivate more than 10 million hectares of land to grow what we eat. The Federal Government will provide all necessary incentives for this initiative, whilst the states provide the land, which will put millions of our people to work and further increase food production. In the past few months, we have also ordered mechanized farming equipment such as tractors and planters, worth billions of Naira from the United States, Belarus, and Brazil. I can confirm to you that the equipment is on the way.
31. My dear Nigerians, especially our youth, I have heard you loud and clear. I understand the pain and frustration that drive these protests, and I want to assure you that our government is committed to listening and addressing the concerns of our citizens.
32. But we must not let violence and destruction tear our nation apart. We must work together to build a brighter future, where every Nigerian can live with dignity and prosperity.
33. The task before us is a collective one, and I am leading the charge as your President. A lot of work has gone into stabilising our economy and I must stay focused on ensuring that the benefits reach every single Nigerian as promised.
34. My administration is working very hard to improve and expand our national infrastructure and create more opportunities for our young people.
35. Let nobody misinform and miseducate you about your country or tell you that your government does not care about you. Although there have been many dashed hopes in the past, we are in a new era of Renewed Hope. We are working hard for you, and the results will soon be visible and concrete for everyone to see, feel, and enjoy.
36. Let us work together to build a brighter future for ourselves and for generations to come. Let us choose hope over fear, unity over division, and progress over stagnation. The economy is recovering; Please, don’t shut out its oxygen. Now that we have been enjoying democratic governance for 25 years, do not let the enemies of democracy use you to promote an unconstitutional agenda that will set us back on our democratic journey. FORWARD EVER, BACKWARD NEVER!
37. In conclusion, security operatives should continue to maintain peace, law, and order in our country following the necessary conventions on human rights, to which Nigeria is a signatory. The safety and security of all Nigerians are paramount.
38. I’m byThank God — and Thank you for your attention, and may God continue to bless our great Nation. Thank you very much.
A sense of calm has settled over Ughelli, the administrative headquarters of Ughelli North Local Government Area in Delta State, as businesses and commercial activities have started to resume to some extent on the third day of the nationwide protest.
Despite initial concerns about potential disruptions and retaliation from the protesting groups, the area has remained peaceful, with protesters backing down following a strong warning from the council chairman, Hon. Jaro Egbo, and the Nigerian police.
Several markets, shops, and other businesses that were closed during the first and second days of the protest have reopened, allowing traders and customers to carry on with their daily routines.
Transportation services have also started to operate partially at the state’s transport hub, Delta Line at Otovwodo Ughelli, with vehicles back on the roads and commuters continuing with their usual journeys.
The protesters, who are advocating for good governance, economic development, and an end to corruption, have been marching through the main streets of Ughelli, chanting slogans and displaying placards.
The improved peace and the gradual resumption of business and commercial activities in Ughelli North, the focal point of the protest in Delta State, are credited to the heavy presence of police and other security forces who are prominently stationed around Otovwodo junction.
They are ensuring security and working to maintain the peaceful nature of the protests.
Residents who had initially stayed indoors out of fear have started to venture out, relieved to be able to resume their daily activities with a renewed sense of safety.
Previously, a few protesters who requested anonymity when speaking with our correspondent pointed fingers at Hon. Jaro Egbo, the chairman of Ughelli North Council, accusing him of inciting certain youths in the area against the protesters.
This alleged provocation resulted in a confrontation between the police and the peaceful demonstrators, they alleged.
The President General of Ughievwen Union, Olorogun Patrick Wheleke, has lauded the residents of Ughievwen Kingdom for their peaceful conduct during the ongoing nationwide hunger protest, which has unfortunately resulted in the destruction of properties and loss of lives in some part of the country.
Wheleke expressed his appreciation during a conversation with journalists at Otughievwen, the headquarters of Ughelli South Local Government Area, on Saturday.
He emphasized that the peaceful demeanor exhibited by the Ughievwen people is a clear indication that they heeded the earlier advice provided by the Union.
Additionally, he highlighted that the protest has already yielded positive outcomes, prompting the federal government to implement changes in various policies and commit to providing more palliatives while addressing the issue of insecurity.
“Therefore, it is imperative to allow the federal government the opportunity to fulfill its promise of improving the situation.
“Continuing with the protest would only result in further destruction of properties and loss of lives. It is crucial that we maintain peace and give the government the chance to work towards a better future.”
As the union rallies for change, Wheleke emphasized the importance of dialogue and collaboration between the government and the people to ensure a sustainable and effective resolution to the challenges facing the nation.
The Delta State Contributory Health Commission (DSCHC) has unveiled an innovative program to ensure that individuals with limited means have access to high-quality healthcare.
Through the Ndigent Enrollee Adoption Initiative, both individuals and organizations have the opportunity to purchase health insurance for those who are unable to afford it, starting at only N7,000.
This commendable initiative aims to narrow the healthcare disparity between the affluent and the less fortunate, guaranteeing that everyone can receive medical attention when necessary.
By sponsoring an underprivileged individual, you are effectively saving a life and granting them the opportunity to lead a healthy and fruitful life.
Participation in this initiative is made simple by the DSCHC, for a contribution of N7,000, you can sponsor an indigent person and furnish them with comprehensive health insurance coverage, encompassing medical consultations, hospitalization, surgeries, and other essential healthcare services.
The Ndigent Enrollee Adoption Initiative serves as a rallying cry for all compassionate individuals and organizations to collaborate with the DSCHC in making healthcare accessible to all. By sponsoring just one person, you can profoundly impact their life and the lives of their dear ones.
Let us unite to save lives and foster positive change in our society. Take part in the Ndigent Enrollee Adoption Initiative today and sponsor health insurance for underprivileged individuals with just N7,000.
Together, we can cultivate a healthier and more just community for all. Get in touch with the Delta State Contributory Health Commission to discover more about this initiative and how you can get involved.
President Bola Tinubu is set to deliver a national address on Sunday, August 4, 2024, at 7:00 am.
The announcement was made by the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, in a statement released on Saturday under the title ‘President Tinubu to address the nation.’
Ngelale encouraged television, radio, and other electronic media outlets to broadcast the address on the network services of the Nigerian Television Authority and the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria.
The statement also mentioned that the broadcast would be re-aired on the NTA and FRCN network services at 3:00 pm and 7:00 pm on the same day.
In various parts of the country such as Lagos, Oyo, and Abuja, protesters have taken to the streets to demand the reversal of fuel subsidy removal and the reduction of the soaring prices of goods and services.
Unfortunately, the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protest has been marred by looting in Kano and other northern regions, prompting police action to apprehend the perpetrators and recover stolen items.
Temitola Adekunle-Johnson, the Senior Special Assistant to President Ahmed Bola Tinubu on Job Creation and MSMEs, recently paid a visit to Nature First Global Resources Ltd as part of his regular inspections to evaluate the status of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Nigeria.
During the visit, the CEO of Nature First, Priscilla Canice-Obi, guided Temitola Adekunle-Johnson and his team through various sections of the factory, presenting the production process from the sourcing of raw materials to the final products.
In the tour of the factory situated in Karu-Site in the Federal Capital Territory of Abuja, Priscilla showcased the effectiveness of Nature First’s herbal remedies, such as the High BP Tea, which has been demonstrated to lower and stabilize blood pressure.
She also shared a heartwarming success story of a nine-year-old boy who recovered from persistent respiratory issues and a growth in his nose with the help of Nature First Black Seed Oil, a NAFDAC-certified product.
Expressing his satisfaction with the visit, the Senior Special Assistant reassured the business, as well as all Nigerian MSMEs, of the government’s dedication to creating a supportive environment for their development and prosperity.
He commended Priscilla for her commitment and encouraged her to continue her outstanding work.
Adekunle-Johnson remarked, “If MSMEs require access to the market, bridging the gap is simpler,” while urging businesses to acquire all necessary certifications to facilitate government assistance.
In appreciation, the CEO expressed gratitude to the SSA and the team for their visit, affirming a commitment to maintaining the delivery of superior products that cater to the public’s needs and well-being.
Nature First, an agroprocessing company based in Nigeria, endeavors to empower Africans to nourish and heal naturally. The company specializes in offering nutrient-rich natural spices, herbal supplements, organic remedies, plant-based oils, and foods.
Nature First was recognized at the National MSME Awards ceremony, where it was honored with a nomination for the prestigious title of Most Outstanding MSME of The Year. The event took place at the Presidential Villa, State House Abuja, on June 27, 2024.
Delta State Representative at the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Rt. Hon. Monday Igbuya, has expressed his warm wishes to Senator Ovie Omo-Agege on his 61st birthday anniversary.
Chief Igbuya, a prominent member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, commended Omo-Agege for his significant contributions to the progress and development of the nation.
In a statement signed by the distinguished Niger Delta leader, Chief Igbuya conveyed his congratulations and best regards to Senator Ovie Omo-Agege on his 61st birthday anniversary, on behalf of his family and the people of Sapele.
He praised Omo-Agege as a distinguished leader and statesman, highlighting his exemplary dedication and service to Delta State and Nigeria.
Chief Igbuya emphasized the celebration of Omo-Agege’s numerous contributions to the advancement and growth of the nation.
Having served as the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Omo-Agege demonstrated exceptional leadership skills and legislative expertise.
Throughout his tenure, he remained dedicated to upholding democratic values, ensuring effective governance, and advocating for policies that enhance the well-being of all Nigerians.
His pivotal role in driving legislative reforms that have positively transformed the socio-economic landscape of our nation, particularly in championing the interests of the Niger Delta region, deserves commendation.
Senator Omo-Agege’s work consistently reveals a profound grasp of the challenges confronting our communities, leading to notable improvements in crucial areas such as infrastructure, education, and healthcare.
His leadership serves as a source of inspiration and guidance for those following in his footsteps.
As we mark this significant milestone in Senator Omo-Agege’s life, we recognize his enduring legacy and the constructive impact he has made on our state and country.
His contributions to Nigeria’s political and socio-economic spheres stand as a beacon for present and future leaders, underscoring the values of integrity, resilience, and commitment to the common good.
We wish Senator Omo-Agege joy, good health, and continued success in all his pursuits this year. We eagerly anticipate his ongoing contributions to the progress and prosperity of our beloved Delta State and Nigeria.
The Labour Party has taken action against what it perceives as significant non-compliance with the Electoral Act by filing a petition at the Delta State Local Government Election Petition Tribunal in Asaba. Their aim is to seek the annulment of the recently concluded council polls in Aniocha South.
The Labour Party is pushing for the cancellation of the election results in which the Delta State Independent Electoral Commission (DSIEC) declared Jude Chukwunweike of the PDP as the rightful winner.
Among its reasons for requesting the cancellation of the Aniocha South local government election, the Labour Party pointed out that voting did not take place in most DSIEC wards in Aniocha South. This was due to the unavailability of voting materials at various polling units, leading to thousands of eligible voters being unable to cast their ballots.
The party also alleged that none of their representatives endorsed the purported result sheets that DSIEC used to announce the victory of the PDP candidate, Chukwunweike. This action, they argue, does not meet the required level of compliance with electoral laws.
In the Labour Party’s petition, the Delta State Independent Electoral Commission (DSIEC), Hon Jude Chukwunweike, and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) are named as the first, second, and third respondents, respectively.
*Commits to Sustaining the Protest Until the FG Provides Solutions to Their Demands
By Sunday Apah
Ughelli, Delta State – Despite a heavy downpour, a determined group of protesters in Ughelli, Delta State, took to the streets to voice their demands in a peaceful demonstration against government policies.
The protesters, carrying placards with various messages, gathered in their thousands and blocked the Ughelli axis of the East-West road.
Their demands focused on advocating for policies that would improve the lives of Nigerians, including calls to reverse or eliminate fuel subsidies.
The protesters expressed dissatisfaction with the administration of President Ahmed Bola Tinubu, accusing the government of causing widespread hardship and failing to prioritize the well-being of the Nigerian people.
Converging at the Otovwodo junction of the East-West road, the same location where the #EndSARS protests began, the demonstrators made their voices heard.
This area holds significant historical importance, as it was the scene of violent clashes during previous protests, resulting in casualties and significant property damage.
Fortunately, the Nigerian Army swiftly intervened to ensure the safety and peaceful conduct of the protest.
Their presence helped prevent any escalation of tensions and maintained order throughout the demonstration.
The protesters remained resolute in their cause, vowing to persist until the federal government addresses their grievances and implements solutions to meet their demands.
The chairman of Ughelli North Local Government Council, Olorogun Jaro Egbo Esq., had advised protesters against taking to the streets in Ughelli and surrounding areas, emphasizing that Oharisi Primary School was the designated location for peaceful demonstrations.
According to him, “The authority of the local government council prohibits protests on streets and roads throughout the area, and individuals violating this directive will face consequences.
“While we recognize the prevailing hardships such as rising food prices, allowing street blockades could lead to unforeseen risks. Ensuring the safety of lives and properties is paramount, as there is a possibility of troublemakers exploiting the situation.”
Notably, at the time of this report, a significant security presence, including more than ten Hilux vans from the Nigerian Army, Nigeria Mobile Police, Nigeria Civil Security Corps, Vigilante Group of Nigeria (VGN) under the leadership of Delta State Commandant Mr. Monday Ohwesiri, and other security agencies, were stationed at key points to prevent any potential disruption by troublemakers.
A protester, speaking anonymously to our correspondent, expressed determination to continue the protest until their demands are heard by President Bola Tinubu.
