FG Withdraws Terrorism Charges Against Miyetti Allah President

The President of Miyetti Allah Kautal Kore, Alhaji Bello Bodejo became a free man on Wednesday after the Federal Government withdrew alleged terrorism charges filed against him. The charges against Bodejo were withdrawn by the office of the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) on resumption of the trial on Wednesday. Upon resuming hearing, the lawyer to the AGF, Aderonke Imana, moved an oral application for the withdrawal of the three-count charge The lawyer said the application was under Section 108 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA), 2015. She said the request was further predicated on the power of the AGF under Section 174 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended). “Consequently, the Honourable Attorney-General of the Federation has instructed me to withdraw this charge against the defendant in the interest of justice. “That is our humble application my lord,” she said. Bodejo’s team of lawyers, including Johnson Usman, SAN, but led by Ahmed Raji, SAN, did not oppose the application. The senior lawyer thanked the AGF, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, for his “magnanimous gesture.” “We urge your lordship to discharge the accused person under the sections refers to by the prosecutor,” Raji said. Justice Inyang Ekwo, in a short ruling, thereafter discharged Bodejo. Ruling, Justice Ekwo said though the matter was slated for commencement of trial, however, the prosecution applied to withdraw the charge citing relevant sections of the law. “The court is hereby moved to consider the application for the discharge of the defendant. “Consequently, an order is hereby made discharging the defendant. That is the order of this court,” the judge declared. Bodejo was arrested on the alleged raising up an armed militia in detriment of the nation’s unity.

National Anthem Reversal: President Tinubu Enacts Bill, Returns “Nigeria, We Hail Thee”

President Bola Tinubu has signed into law the National Anthem Bill 2024, effectively restoring “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” as the country’s official anthem. The decision, announced amidst a backdrop of anticipation and skepticism, marks a significant departure from the anthem “Arise, O Compatriots,” which has held sway since 1978. The National Anthem Bill 2024, a contentious piece of legislation that has garnered attention nationwide, underwent rigorous scrutiny in the National Assembly before receiving the presidential assent. Advocates for the change argue that the reinstated anthem carries deeper historical resonance and a stronger sense of unity, reflective of Nigeria’s diverse cultural heritage. President Tinubu, at the joint national Assembly address following the signing ceremony, emphasized the importance of honoring Nigeria’s past while embracing its future. “Our anthem is more than mere words; it is a symbol of our collective identity and aspirations,” he remarked. “Returning to ‘Nigeria, We Hail Thee’ is a reaffirmation of our commitment to unity in diversity.” However, the decision has not been met without criticism. Opponents of the anthem reversal express concerns about erasing decades of symbolism embedded in “Arise, O Compatriots,” which has served as a rallying cry for generations of Nigerians. Some view the move as a regressive step, undermining efforts towards national cohesion and progress. As the country prepares for the transition, plans are underway to disseminate the reinstated anthem across various platforms, including educational institutions, government functions, and public events. The impact of this reversion on Nigeria’s cultural landscape and national sentiment remains to be seen, as citizens grapple with the implications of this historic decision.

Kano emirate tussle: CJN summons FHC CJ, Kano CJ

The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, has issued a summon to the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, and the Chief Judge of Kano State High Court to appear before him over conflicting interim injunctions regarding the Kano Emirate tussle. The Federal High Court in Kano, presided over by Justice S. A. Amobeda, issued an order for the eviction of Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II from the Kofar Kudu Palace, reinforcing the authority of the 15th Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado Bayero. Also, the Kano State High Court, presided over by Justice Amina Adamu Aliyu, issued an injunction to protect Muhammadu Sunusi and other key figures from potential harassment by state authorities. This order prevents any interference with the Emir’s autonomy and the seizure of key symbols of his authority, such as the twin spear, the Royal Hat of Dabo, and the Ostrich-feathered shoes. These conflicting orders have led to significant confusion regarding the rightful authority and protection of the emirs in Kano. The State High Court’s case is set for further hearing on June 13, while the Federal High Court has adjourned its case to June 4.

Kano State Governor Announces Ban On Public Protests

The Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has imposed restrictions on public gatherings intended for protests, aiming to curb potential unrest within the state. This announcement was made through a statement delivered by his spokesperson, Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, on Wednesday. Under the new directive, Governor Yusuf has authorized the Police, the Directorate of State Security Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC) to take robust measures against anyone engaging in public demonstrations. According to the governor’s spokesperson, these security agencies are instructed to “apprehend, detain, and prosecute any individual or group partaking in demonstrations on the streets of Kano.” The governor’s office described this measure as a preemptive strategy designed to prevent any breakdown of law and order that might be incited by state adversaries. The move comes amid concerns that protests could escalate into violence, potentially disturbing peace and public safety. This decision has stirred various reactions among the citizens and groups within Kano, with some viewing it as a necessary step towards maintaining stability, while others criticize it as an infringement on democratic rights to free speech and assembly. The statement reads: “We are privy to credible intelligence indicating that certain prominent figures from the opposition party in Kano have devised plans to sponsor student associations and political agitators from other northwestern states to incite chaos under the guise of advocating for the dethroned Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado Bayero. “The state government has explicitly outlawed protests, demonstrations, or processions of any kind, and individuals found on the streets of Kano engaging in such activities will be promptly apprehended. “Through this declaration, we caution student groups against being manipulated by troublemakers who are resolute in fomenting disorder in Kano.” The governor urged all citizens of the state to carry on with their normal activities as the state retains its tranquility, and the government will persist in vigilant oversight of the situation to promptly address any individuals or factions trying to undermine the relative peace that state presently enjoys.Kano State Governor Announces Ban On Public Protests The Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has imposed restrictions on public gatherings intended for protests, aiming to curb potential unrest within the state. This announcement was made through a statement delivered by his spokesperson, Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, on Wednesday. Under the new directive, Governor Yusuf has authorized the Police, the Directorate of State Security Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC) to take robust measures against anyone engaging in public demonstrations. According to the governor’s spokesperson, these security agencies are instructed to “apprehend, detain, and prosecute any individual or group partaking in demonstrations on the streets of Kano.” The governor’s office described this measure as a preemptive strategy designed to prevent any breakdown of law and order that might be incited by state adversaries. The move comes amid concerns that protests could escalate into violence, potentially disturbing peace and public safety. This decision has stirred various reactions among the citizens and groups within Kano, with some viewing it as a necessary step towards maintaining stability, while others criticize it as an infringement on democratic rights to free speech and assembly. The statement reads: “We are privy to credible intelligence indicating that certain prominent figures from the opposition party in Kano have devised plans to sponsor student associations and political agitators from other northwestern states to incite chaos under the guise of advocating for the dethroned Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado Bayero. “The state government has explicitly outlawed protests, demonstrations, or processions of any kind, and individuals found on the streets of Kano engaging in such activities will be promptly apprehended. “Through this declaration, we caution student groups against being manipulated by troublemakers who are resolute in fomenting disorder in Kano.” The governor urged all citizens of the state to carry on with their normal activities as the state retains its tranquility, and the government will persist in vigilant oversight of the situation to promptly address any individuals or factions trying to undermine the relative peace that state presently enjoys.

Tinubu’s anniversary: FG begins N75,000 cash payment to 75 million Nigerians

The Federal Government announced on Tuesday the reinstatement of the suspended social investment programme, aimed at providing direct payments to 75 million Nigerians across 50 million households. This initiative is intended to alleviate the hardships faced by citizens, particularly vulnerable groups, as disclosed during a ministerial sectoral briefing marking President Bola Tinubu’s first year in office. Wale Edun, the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, revealed that the cash transfer programme had undergone significant overhauls to address and mitigate fraud. This announcement follows the suspension of all National Social Investment Programme Agency (NSIPA) activities by President Tinubu on January 12 for a six-week period, due to alleged mismanagement. Concurrently, Betta Edu, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, was suspended on January 8. The intervention programmes affected by this suspension included N-Power, the conditional cash transfer scheme, the government enterprise and empowerment programme, and the home-grown school feeding initiative. On March 13, the House of Representatives urged the federal government to resume these social investment initiatives. To revamp the programme, President Tinubu established a Special Presidential Panel, led by Edun, to conduct an intensive review and audit of the existing financial frameworks and policy guidelines of the social investment programmes. Providing an update on the committee’s progress, Edun emphasised the government’s commitment to providing relief for poor Nigerians. “I am duty-bound to give you an overview of the strategy, policies, and implementation of Mr President’s reform programme,” Edun said. “Immediately upon assuming office, Mr President launched macroeconomic reforms to restore stability to the Nigerian economy, including subsidy reforms and foreign exchange market reforms. “These reforms caused a spike in costs for individuals and businesses, but Mr President is committed to counterbalancing the negative effects with interventions across the social spectrum.” Edun outlined the government’s restarted social investment programme, which includes direct payments to 75 million Nigerians in 50 million households. He also mentioned improvements in access to credit, with ₦1 billion allocated to consumer credit and grants of ₦50,000 being provided to 1 million nanoindustries.

FG Reacts As Labour Rejects N60K Minimum Wage Offer 

The Federal Government has appealed to the organised labour to be considerate and accept the proposed N60K minimum wage offer. Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Mrs Nkeiruka Onyejeocha made the appeal in a statement signed by Mr Olajide Oshundun, Director of Press and Public Relations in the ministry on Wednesday in Abuja. The organized labour on Tuesday rejected the N60,000 proposed by the Tripartite Committee. They also reduced their demand from N500,000 to N494,000. Giving reasons for not accepting the N60K proposal, the Labour said: “How can we agree on N60,000- an amount that cannot buy a bag of rice to serve as national minimum wage. Let’s assume that you are buying a loaf of bread for your family at N2,000 every day and that is what you and your family want to be eating for one meal. “We have to be realistic in this country. When government increased the price of petrol, they asked labour to wait and demand for a living minimum wage and the government is going to provide a living a living wage for workers. But now, we are asking for a living wage and government is playing around it.” Reacting to the development, Onyejeocha said that the federal government had been consistent in taking steps to secure a fair and realistic wage for Nigeria workers. “We are committed to putting the people first and ensuring that our economic policies benefit all Nigerians, not just a select few. “The government remain dedicated to prioritizing the well-being of our citizens and its want to urge all relevant parties to demonstrate patriotism and understanding. “This is particularly during this critical period when the President, Bola Tinubu, is working diligently to revitalize the economy,”she said. “As a government, we recognise the importance of ensuring that our citizens receive a decent standard of living, and we are committed to making this a reality. “After hours of intense negotiations, labour leaders took a recess to consult with other key stakeholders and have pledged to return to the negotiating table for further discussion. “We welcome this development and are optimistic that our continued engagement will yield a positive outcome. “In light of the current economic conditions, we have made a concessionary move from N57,000 to N60,000. “This is the path that this government has chosen to pursue, and we will not deviate or stray from the course. “President Tinubu has been tireless in his efforts to revitalise the economy and improve the standard of living for all Nigerians. “His commitment to creating jobs, stimulating economic growth, and reducing poverty is genuine, and we appeal to all to support him in this endeavour. “As we move forward, we will continue to engage with organised labour and other stakeholders to ensure that our economic policies are inclusive and beneficial to all,” she added. Meanwhile, yesterday’s meeting ended in a deadlock as both parties failed to reach an agreement. The meeting was subsequently postponed indefinitely. The Labour had vowed that if the Federal Government failed to come up with a reasonable amount by May 31, then a nationwide strike will begin.

The Tinubu Presidency:Renewed Hope or Reincarnation of Controversy

Just as I reflected on a theme to anchor my thoughts on the first anniversary of the Tinubu Presidency, I received two electronic messages from the same source, expressing two diametrically opposed views on the same subject matter. What is even more perplexing is the fact that the two messages were official communications purporting to convey a message from the highest office in the land and signed off by two individuals that should have been speaking from the same script. The first message, an official communication from the office of the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the President, Mr. Ajuri Ngelale read: “STATE HOUSE PRESS STATEMENT IN COMMEMORATION OF MAY 29 AND THE FIRST ANNIVERSARY OF THE PRESIDENT TINUBU ADMINISTRATION In furtherance of his commitment to delivering good governance, President Bola Tinubu has embarked on the inauguration of strategic projects across the country. More transformative projects will be inaugurated by President Tinubu’s administration for the benefit of all Nigerians. In view of public commentary concerning the President delivering a speech before a Joint Sitting of the National Assembly tomorrow, May 29, 2024, it is important to state that this information is false and unauthorized as the Office of the President was not involved in the planning of the event.” This message was dated My 28, 2024. In the same breath, another communication from the presidency and signed by Mr. Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser on Information & Strategy to Mr. President was released, and it read: “STATE HOUSE PRESS STATEMENT PRESIDENT TINUBU TO ADDRESS JOINT SITTING OF NATIONAL ASSEMBLY TOMORROW President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will not make a broadcast to the nation on Wednesday to celebrate his first anniversary as the leader of Nigeria. Instead, the President will address a joint session of the National Assembly, which has lined up a programme to commemorate 25 years of the nation’s democratic journey at both the executive and legislative levels. President Tinubu’s speech will dwell on the achievements of his administration and Nigeria’s democracy since the military ceded power in 1999. Former Senate President, Senator David Mark, former speaker of the House of Representatives and now President Tinubu’s Chief of Staff, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila are all lined up to address the parliament. Also lined up to speak is the former military ruler, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, who handed over power to civilian administration in 1999. At the end of the speeches, President Tinubu will commission the National Assembly Library and Resource Center, now to be known as Bola Ahmed Tinubu Building.” This one too, was dated May 28, 2024. While we await the stage appearance of President Tinubu, the lead character in this dramaturgy about heroic failures, I can hear some mischief makers murmuring déjà vu. Certainly. It is the reincarnation of controversy, which has become the hallmark of this president. Even more controversial is the record of performance of the first twelve months of the Tinubu presidency. From last May 29, twelve months ago, when on inauguration day, President Tinubu, looking forlorn but turbo-charged by the excitement of new office pronounced, “subsidy is gone” until this day, cheerleaders and advocates of his policy choices have mastered the art of double-speak. They often argue, ‘even though the policies shall visit pain and hardship on the people, the tough decisions have to be made for the good of the country.’ Yet, what we see are somersaults and policy reversals that reveal the poor quality of work that was put into these policies. From the withdrawal of subsidy on petrol to the merger of the forex windows through to recent withdrawal of subsidy on power, Nigerians have been served a menu of completely strange dishes that give them no option of choice. Unfortunately, this is coming after eight cruel years of nepotistic, corrupt and clueless reign of Gen Muhammad Buhari when virtually every index of misery took an upward swing. President Buhari represented the worst case of dashed hope since the return of civil rule in 1999. At ascendancy in 2015, he promised to wrestle corruption to a manageable level, grow the economy and tackle insecurity. Eight years after, he handed Nigeria to his successor and party mate, Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the poverty capital of the world where about 113million, out of a population of 200million, was classified as multidimensionally poor with out-of-school population brimming at 20.2million children. President Tinubu, during his numerous electioneering campaign stumps, promised to continue from where President Buhari stopped. It can be assumed that the import of that message was lost on many Nigerians until what some now say was a thoughtless “subsidy is gone” pronouncement. From inauguration day till date, it will seem like the President was determined to act like the young king Rehoboam who spoke roughly to his subjects and said in 1 Kings 12.11: “And now, whereas my father put a heavy yoke on you, I will add to your yoke; my father chastised you with whips, but I will chastise you with scourges!” What is however, very clear to a discerning Nigerians is the fact that as many compatriots lay prostrate and distraught due to the excruciating burden of “Tinubunomics” his alleged puppeteers, the Bretton Woods institutions, infamous deities of the market-driven economy, may celebrate President Tinubu’s zero-subsidy regimes and the foreign exchange liberalization; two policies that created the current storm in the economy. President Tinubu’s leadership mantra is christened, “Renewed Hope.” This contradicts sharply with the reality on ground as many Nigerians and their businesses have been crowded out of the emerging economic landscape. With the naira now a shadow of its old self, since it now exchanges for less than half of its value as at less than a year ago, while the rate of inflation has doubled and unemployment nearing 50 per cent, and with a cabinet that is an unwieldy crowd of round pegs fitted into square holes, it is most doubtful how President Tinubu can turn the corner and restore hope and life to many

Senate Unanimously Votes for Recall of Senator Abdul Ningi

In a unanimous decision, the Nigerian Senate has voted to recall Senator Abdul Ahmed Ningi, representing Bauchi Central Senatorial District, back to the Senate following a period of suspension. The motion for his recall, titled “Unconditional Recall of Senator Abdul Ningi,” was introduced by Senator Abba Moro, the Minority Leader and senator representing Benue South Senatorial District. Senator Ningi was suspended on March 12, 2024, for a duration of three months due to his involvement in making unverified allegations concerning the 2024 budget. In an interview with the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) Hausa Service on March 9, Senator Ningi alleged that the budget had been padded to the tune of N3.7 trillion. The motion for his suspension was initially presented by Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Appropriations, citing infractions of legislative rules, misconduct, and unethical behavior. Senator Moro’s motion, tabled on Tuesday, sought the reconsideration of the resolution from the Votes and Proceedings of March 13, 2024, to recall Senator Abdul Ningi and reinstate him for his legislative duties. Notably, the Senate Minority Leadership, under Senator Moro’s guidance, assumed full responsibility for Senator Ningi’s actions and extended apologies on his behalf. The prayer set forth by Senator Moro garnered unanimous approval from the Senate, leading to the immediate recall of Senator Abdul Ningi. This decision underscores the Senate’s dedication to upholding legislative standards and fostering accountability among its members.

FG approves first aviation school in Southeast 

To address the dearth of manpower in the aviation sector, the Federal Government has approved the listing of Eastwing Aviation Training Institute under the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE). Having met the technical evaluation by the FG, the Institute can now commence the process of admission of students through the Joint Admission and Matriculation Board, JAMB, and the students, upon completion of their studies, will be awarded national diploma and high national diploma, respectively. Speaking on the approval, the founder and CEO of Eastwing Aviation, Dr. Christopher Edeh, urged youths to take advantage of the opportunity offered by the institution to achieve their dream of becoming pilots, aviation engineers, cabin crew or other functions found in the sector. He said: “What this approval means for our youths is that every one of them now has the opportunity to explore this field, even if it means just coming to us for advice. The institution would encourage and help build the dream because we do not want you to stay idle after graduating. “It has been my desire to give back to society considering what I have passed through from the day I joined the Nigerian Air Force. “Being the first aviation school in the South-East region means a lot to us. It means that I am getting closer to my dream and I have reached that stage where society can benefit from me.”  Explaining the process of getting the institute certified, Edeh disclosed that he worked with former colleagues to realize the project. “Those who worked with me on this project were colleagues that we served together. They have been very supportive throughout this quest. It was purely a communal effort, what you would call ‘Wazobia’ and we are where we are today.” The Eastwing Aviation Institute also recently established a non-governmental organisation to encourage less privileged youths who are talented and who meet the basic requirements but are not able to financially pursue their dreams. According to the founder, “We are hopeful that the new dawn would encourage a huge turn up. Many people regard the aviation sector as rocket science; now we have brought it to their doorsteps. For interested candidates, there are many areas in this field they can fit in; go to airports, all you see are many people carrying luggage and we believe they can do more than that.” Speaking further, Dr Edeh recounted: “A good example is one of the security personnel I worked with who was talented and hardworking. I realised this and encouraged him to do more for himself seeing that he has potential. Today, he is an aircraft maintenance engineer in one of the airlines.”

Lawmaker Commends President Tinubu’s Initiative for Local Government Autonomy

Senator Sulaiman Abdulrahman Kawu Sumaila, representing Kano South Senatorial District, has publicly praised President Ahmed Bola Tinubu for his recent announcement concerning local government autonomy. In a statement signed by the senator he expressed his approval of the decision, citing its potential to alleviate the hardships faced by the Nigerian populace. Senator Sumaila commended President Tinubu for aligning with the senators’ collective efforts to uplift local communities from their current challenges. He described the decision as a significant stride towards empowering grassroots governance and stimulating economic growth, especially in rural areas. “I am pleased with President Tinubu’s commitment to granting autonomy to local governments, as stipulated in the constitution,” Senator Sumaila remarked. “This move is poised to foster development in our rural areas and bolster the nation’s economy by enhancing revenue generation through agricultural and commercial activities.” However, while acknowledging the importance of local government autonomy, Senator Sumaila raised concerns about the integrity of local government elections. He emphasized the need for addressing the manipulation of electoral processes by politicians for personal gain, urging President Tinubu to take decisive action to ensure the fairness and transparency of such elections. “The conduct of local government elections has been plagued by interference and manipulation, undermining the democratic process,” Senator Sumaila highlighted. “President Tinubu’s attention to this issue is paramount to complementing the autonomy granted to local governments and ensuring that democracy flourishes at the grassroots level.” Furthermore, Senator Sumaila extended appreciation towards the collaborative efforts of the legislative and executive branches in advocating for local government autonomy. He called upon the judiciary to fulfill its constitutional responsibilities in resolving the matter. “We, at the National Assembly, have championed the cause of local government autonomy, and I am grateful for the support of the executive in this endeavor,” Senator Sumaila stated. “Now, it is imperative for the judiciary to uphold democratic principles and the rule of law in adjudicating on this issue”, the State concluded.