The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, has initiated an urgent inquiry into allegations surrounding the prolonged detention of Seaman Abbas Haruna, a Nigerian Navy personnel reportedly held for six years.
In response to a video circulating on social media that highlights this issue, the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has confirmed awareness of the situation.
A statement released by Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, the Director of Defence Information, emphasized the Armed Forces of Nigeria’s ongoing dedication to justice, equity, and adherence to the rule of law.
“The military court-martial process, while detailed and thorough, prioritizes fairness and provides equal opportunities in line with established legal and military standards,” noted the DHQ.
In light of these serious allegations, General Musa has called for an immediate investigation into the claims. The DHQ has promised that the findings will be shared with the public in due course.
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) announced that it will sell petrol sourced from the Dangote Refinery at N950 per litre in Delta and other Southern states and prices surpassing N1,000 per litre in various regions of the northern states.
In a statement released on Monday, NNPC spokesperson Olufemi Soneye detailed the estimated pump prices for Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) in a document titled ‘NNPC Ltd Releases Estimated Pump Prices of PMS from Dangote Refinery Based on September 2024 Pricing’.
According to Soneye, petrol may reach as high as N1,019 per litre in locations like Borno State and priced at N999.22 in cities such as Abuja, Sokoto, and Kano. In southern states like Oyo and Rivers, the price is set at N960 per litre.
The most competitive price listed is N950 for Lagos and surrounding areas, as indicated in an infographic released by the NNPC.
“The NNPC Ltd has provided estimated pricing for Premium Motor Spirit, sourced from the Dangote Refinery, for its retail outlets throughout the nation,” Soneye stated.
He also emphasized that, in accordance with the Petroleum Industry Act, fuel prices are negotiated directly between parties and not dictated by the government.
Furthermore, the NNPC Ltd expressed its willingness to incorporate any discounts negotiated with the Dangote Refinery, ensuring that any reductions will be fully passed on to consumers.
The estimated pump prices, derived from the Dangote Refinery, will be implemented at NNPC retail stations based on the pricing set for September 2024.
It is worth noting that the Dangote Group recently contested the NNPC’s claims, stating that it was offering PMS at a price of N898, although it has yet to provide a detailed price list.
NNPC to Price Dangote Petrol at N960/litre in Delta, N950 in Lagos
By Sunday Apah
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) announced that it will sell petrol sourced from the Dangote Refinery at N950 per litre in Delta and other Southern states and prices surpassing N1,000 per litre in various regions of the northern states.
In a statement released on Monday, NNPC spokesperson Olufemi Soneye detailed the estimated pump prices for Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) in a document titled ‘NNPC Ltd Releases Estimated Pump Prices of PMS from Dangote Refinery Based on September 2024 Pricing’.
According to Soneye, petrol may reach as high as N1,019 per litre in locations like Borno State and priced at N999.22 in cities such as Abuja, Sokoto, and Kano. In southern states like Oyo and Rivers, the price is set at N960 per litre.
The most competitive price listed is N950 for Lagos and surrounding areas, as indicated in an infographic released by the NNPC.
“The NNPC Ltd has provided estimated pricing for Premium Motor Spirit, sourced from the Dangote Refinery, for its retail outlets throughout the nation,” Soneye stated.
He also emphasized that, in accordance with the Petroleum Industry Act, fuel prices are negotiated directly between parties and not dictated by the government.
Furthermore, the NNPC Ltd expressed its willingness to incorporate any discounts negotiated with the Dangote Refinery, ensuring that any reductions will be fully passed on to consumers.
The estimated pump prices, derived from the Dangote Refinery, will be implemented at NNPC retail stations based on the pricing set for September 2024.
It is worth noting that the Dangote Group recently contested the NNPC’s claims, stating that it was offering PMS at a price of N898, although it has yet to provide a detailed price list.
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has extended warm congratulations to the Muslim community as they celebrate Eid-el-Maulud in 2024, commemorating the birthday of Prophet Muhammad.
In a message shared on Sunday by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, the Governor encouraged Muslims to take this joyous occasion to pray for the betterment and stability of both the state and the entire nation.
Governor Oborevwori emphasized the urgent need for collective prayers to navigate the pressing economic and security issues currently facing the country.
He urged Muslims throughout the state and beyond to follow the Prophet’s example by fostering peaceful coexistence wherever they reside.
He remarked, “On behalf of my family, the government, and the people of Delta State, I express our heartfelt greetings to Muslims celebrating Eid-el-Maulud across Delta, Nigeria, and around the globe.
“My aspiration is that as we gather in celebration, we will reflect on the profound spiritual lessons from the teachings of the Holy Prophet, particularly in areas of compassion, justice, equity, and peaceful coexistence.
“By embodying these principles, we can contribute to the enhancement of our beloved nation. Let us unite in our prayers for our country’s progress and the strengthening of bonds among citizens, irrespective of their backgrounds or beliefs, to promote peace, unity, and stability.
“I genuinely hope that this celebration brings joy to every household in Delta, Nigeria, and around the world.”
In a commendable act of generosity, Delta State businessman and politician Olorogun Emuobor Gbagi covered the hospital bills for several patients at the General Hospital in Otu-Jeremi, located in the Ughelli South Local Government Area, as part of World Charity Day celebrations.
Chief Gbagi emphasized that his donation was a reminder for all Nigerians to embrace a culture of giving back to their communities.
He affirmed that his philanthropic efforts are driven by a genuine desire to support those in need rather than any political agenda.
Recognized for his entrepreneurial spirit and charitable initiatives, Chief Gbagi’s actions resonate with the spirit of the International Day of Charity, established by the United Nations on September 5.
This day highlights the importance of compassion and generosity, particularly toward the less fortunate.
On World Charity Day, Chief Gbagi’s generosity significantly impacted the lives of over ten patients at Otu-Jeremi General Hospital, where he paid their outstanding medical bills.
Many of these individuals had been enduring prolonged hospital stays, some awaiting necessary surgeries that had been financially out of reach.
In remarks following this act of kindness, Chief Gbagi expressed the importance of regularly uplifting those in need, noting that a collaborative effort beyond government initiatives is essential.
He urged fellow Nigerians to engage in acts of love and kindness, reinforcing the message that caring for one another is a fundamental teaching.
He stated, “Those who are able should consistently demonstrate generosity towards the less privileged and vulnerable in our society. Such acts reflect our commitment to the core human values of empathy and unity that bind us all together.”
Grateful patients expressed their heartfelt thanks to Chief Gbagi, showering him with prayers and wishes for divine blessings. One recipient, Okubor Tega, who underwent breast surgery, shared her relief and gratitude, highlighting how his support alleviated a significant burden.
Another patient, a woman named Ejiro suffering from a chronic leg ulcer, expressed her gratitude, stating, “May God bless you, Chief Gbagi, for your kindness. I was considering borrowing money for treatment, and your generosity has made all the difference.”
A local tricycle operator, who displayed a tribute to Chief Gbagi’s late father, received an unexpected cash gift as part of this charitable initiative, illustrating the widespread impact of Chief Gbagi’s benevolence on the community.
As the 8th National Youth Games (NYG) commenced in Asaba, Delta State, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori highlighted the state’s strong reputation for fostering sports development in Nigeria.
During the opening ceremony at the Stephen Keshi Stadium on Thursday, Oborevwori expressed his enthusiasm for hosting the event for the second consecutive year. “We take great pride in welcoming this event once again. Delta State is synonymous with sports in Nigeria,” he stated.
The governor emphasized the importance of providing a platform for young athletes to demonstrate their talents, ensuring a structured program that promotes their progress in various sports.
“I would like to extend my gratitude to the Federal Ministry of Sports Development and the Local Organizing Committee for their dedication in organizing the National Youth Games. With approximately 6,000 athletes and over 1,000 officials participating, this year’s event sets a new record,” he added.
Oborevwori also articulated his concern about Nigeria’s declining performance in recent sports events and proposed that the age limit for the National Youth Games be adjusted back to the original upper limit of U-17, instead of the current U-15.
“This change would facilitate a smoother transition for our talented older teenagers and young adults into the senior category of Team Nigeria, minimizing gaps in their competitive journey.”
He stressed the need for increased attention to school sports programs, advocating for compulsory inter-house competitions in primary and secondary schools and the consolidation of school sports festivals.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who officially opened the 8th edition of the games, emphasized its importance in nurturing and identifying talent, remarking that grassroots sports development is crucial for the future of the country’s athletic endeavors.
Represented by Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Enoh, the President urged various sporting federations to actively engage in scouting for new talent throughout the games.
“My administration is committed to refining sports for enhanced performance in alignment with our Renewed Hope Agenda, with an emphasis on investing in grassroots sports,” President Tinubu stated.
He echoed Governor Oborevwori’s call for revising the age limit back to U-17, acknowledging the need for continuity in talent development.
The President also commended Delta State’s ongoing support for grassroots sports initiatives in Nigeria.
In his welcome remarks, Chief Solomon Ogba, Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee, praised Delta’s reputation as a sports hub and expressed gratitude to the State Government for its consistent support in hosting both national and international sports competitions.
He affirmed to the athletes from across the country that they can expect excellent accommodations and transportation during the duration of the 8th National Youth Games.
On Thursday, forty female farmers in Delta State received a total of N10 million in grants to enhance their agricultural enterprises.
Also, 1,200 economically disadvantaged households were provided with food supplies through a joint initiative by Senator Oluremi Tinubu and Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori, the wives of the President and the Governor, respectively.
The funding and food distribution, organized by the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) under Senator Tinubu and the ‘You Matter Charity Foundation’ led by Deaconess Oborevwori, aim to alleviate the financial difficulties faced by many citizens.
During the event at the Events Centre in Asaba, Deaconess Oborevwori, representing Mrs. Tinubu, highlighted the initiative’s commitment to supporting vulnerable populations, stating, “Recently, our mother visited to launch a grant of N100,000 for petty traders, and today, we focus on aiding underprivileged women throughout the state.”
“The Renewed Hope Initiative is deeply concerned about the challenges Nigerians face and has developed this program to ease the economic burden on women, who will then support their families. Today, we are distributing 1,200 bags of 25kg rice,” she said.
Deaconess Oborevwori noted that the beneficiaries were carefully chosen from all 25 local government areas. She added that Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori contributed additional support with 1,200 cartons of noodles, 1,200 liters of cooking oil, and other essential items, complementing the rice provided through federal assistance.
She urged the people of Delta to maintain hope despite the current economic hardships, emphasizing the importance of prayer and charitable acts. Additionally, she encouraged the grant recipients to use their N250,000 wisely to enhance their businesses.
“Be sure to reinvest in your future,” she advised, adding, “Support one another during these challenging times.”
In their statements, the Commissioners for Women Affairs, Community and Social Development; Humanitarian Affairs; Community Support Services & Girl-Child Development; and Agriculture—Princess Pat Ajudua, Hon. Orode Uduaghan, and Barr. Val Arenyeka—praised the First Ladies for their compassion and dedication to service.
They underscored that the grant and food distribution reflect the strength of collaboration and urged the recipients to use their resources prudently.
The beneficiaries expressed their heartfelt gratitude, praying for the continued success and health of those who supported them.
Hope Egbogbare, one of the grant recipients from Ozoro in Isoko North Local Government Area, shared her surprise and appreciation for the N250,000 grant, expressing optimism that it will significantly bolster her poultry business.
Mrs. Justina Emelue, a recipient of the food items, expressed her gratitude, stating, “This food will be a great help for me and my children, especially with prices so high in the market.”
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has stated that the state is fully prepared to host the 8th National Youth Games, which are set to begin in Asaba on Thursday.
Governor Oborevwori made this known during a press briefing after conducting a thorough inspection of the facilities at the Stephen Keshi Stadium in Asaba, the main venue for the games.
Accompanied by Chief Solomon Ogba, Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, and officials from the State Sports Commission, the Governor assessed the swimming pool, shooting range, and other facilities at the Indoor Sports Hall.
According to Governor Oborevwori, a total of 5,776 athletes from 29 states have already arrived and registered for the games, showing a promising turnout for the opening ceremony.
He expressed his confidence that this year’s event will surpass last year’s and highlighted the positive impact that the games have had on the development of talent in Nigerian sports.
He cited the recent success of Favour Ofili, who competed in the Olympics in Paris and attributed her achievements to being a beneficiary of the National Youth Games.
Governor Oborevwori assured the public that the state is determined to discover even greater talents in this year’s edition of the games, making it a memorable event for everyone involved.
Honorable Collins Ubini, Auditor of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Okpe Local Government Area, strongly asserts that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State is highly focused and dedicated to delivering democratic benefits through the implementation of his MORE Agenda.
He adds that no amount of blackmail or sabotage will deter him from achieving this goal.
In a signed statement, Hon. Ubini responded to what he referred to as “sponsored online videos and publications intended to tarnish the governor’s image and intentions in Delta State by individuals who do not have the state’s best interest at heart.”
He urges the people to disregard such online content and trust in Governor Oborevwori’s commitment to their well-being.
Hon. Ubini specifically condemns an online post by Mr. Wilson Goruvwoghor with the title “Governor Oborevwori: How Not to Justify Misgovernance.” In the video, Governor Oborevwori expressed his refusal to accept substandard work on a particular road project.
Rather than praising the governor for his insistence on quality, Goruvwoghor blamed Governor Oborevwori instead of the contractor responsible for the project.
“Even though Governor Oborevwori maintains an open and transparent government, it is unjust to criticize him for someone else’s shortcomings!
“We know the motivations behind this young man and his group, and we will expose him and his superior in due time! It was not us who was rejected by the people of Delta State, but rather it was the people who rejected him!
“So I advise him and his associates to wait until 2031 because by the grace of God, the people of Delta State will return Governor Oborevwori for a second term based on his performance and unprecedented delivery of democratic benefits through the development of the state’s human and capital resources!”
Hon. Ubini acknowledges that he is aware of the situation, but finds it strange since the election campaign is over.
He believes that individuals like Goruvwoghor and his superiors should allow Governor Oborevwori to implement his MORE Agenda for the benefit of the people of Delta State instead of seeking to distract him.
“By doing so, they will have something to hold against him in 2027! But they will not find anything to hold onto since Governor Oborevwori is focused, determined, and committed to delivering democratic benefits through the MORE Agenda to the people of Delta State.
“No amount of blackmail or sabotage can distract or prevent him from doing so because he understands the struggles and expectations of the people.
“The Ukodo (a traditional delicacy of the Urhobo people in Delta State) will definitely go around the people of Delta State,” Ubini confidently declares.
The Delta State Independent Electoral Commission (DSIEC) is calling on the Adhoc staff who participated in the recent Local Government Council elections and have not yet received their emoluments to submit accurate account details to their respective Chief Electoral Officers.
Olorogun Jude Emurotu, the Commissioner for Public Affairs and Communications at DSIEC, made this announcement in a statement on Wednesday in Asaba.
Emurotu stated that the majority of the Adhoc staff have already been paid, but some individuals had their payments returned by their banks due to incorrect account details.
He urged those affected to send their correct account details to the Chief Electoral Officers in their local government areas so that they can receive their payments.
The statement emphasized that DSIEC has already provided payments to all Local Government Returning Officers, Ward Returning Officers, and Supervisory Presiding Officers.
Some other categories, such as Presiding Officers and polling clerks, have also received their payments.
However, the process of payment has been hindered by some adhoc staff who submitted incorrect bank details.
All adhoc staff who have not yet received their payments are advised to promptly provide their correct account details to the Chief Electoral Officers in their respective Local Government Areas.
This will ensure that they receive their payments without further delay, as stated by the Delta State Independent Electoral Commission (DSIEC).
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, stated on Tuesday that the state government is still awaiting the necessary chart to proceed with the implementation of the new minimum wage.
Governor Oborevwori made this statement while addressing the staff of the State House of Assembly during a retirement thanksgiving ceremony held in honor of the immediate past Clerk of the Assembly and current Principal Secretary to the Governor, Mrs. Lyna Ocholor.
Expressing gratitude, the Governor acknowledged the support of the Assembly staff since his tenure as the Speaker of the 6th and 7th Assemblies.
He also emphasized the importance of thoroughness to avoid any mistakes when implementing the new minimum wage.
“Our priority is to receive the chart detailing the new minimum wage, as we want to ensure that no mistakes are made,” Oborevwori stated.
In addition, Governor Oborevwori took the opportunity to congratulate Mrs. Ocholor on her successful retirement from the civil service.
He further highlighted the commendable dedication of the Assembly staff, who never went on strike during his time as Speaker.
“I am delighted to be here today among all of you. This is also an opportunity to appreciate the staff of this Assembly. I vividly remember when I assumed the role of Mr. Speaker on May 11, 2017.
“It was challenging, but the remarkable thing is that none of the staff, including PASAN, went on strike throughout my tenure of six years as Speaker,” Governor Oborevwori recalled.
He emphasized the importance of professionalism and encouraged the staff to leave a lasting legacy in their respective roles as civil or public servants.
“In whatever capacity you are working, strive to be outstanding. As civil or public servants, it is important to be remembered for the excellent work you do. Mrs. Ocholor is a shining example within this state, and I want to express my gratitude to all of you for supporting her in her achievements,” the Governor added.
Governor Oborevwori concluded by urging the Assembly staff to continue their unwavering support for the current Speaker and other principal officers of the Assembly, just as they did during his time as Speaker.
“The House of Assembly is a place for growth and development. It is impossible to go through this experience and remain unchanged. My prayer is that all of us will have successful outcomes in Jesus’ name. I also want to extend my special appreciation to the Speaker and other officers of the House of Assembly for their harmonious relationship with the executive branch,” Oborevwori stated.
