Hardship: FCT Police to deploy 4,200 officers, vow to resist violent protest

By Doris Isreal Ijeoma The FCT Police Command announced on Friday that in anticipation of a planned nationwide protest by human rights activists and Nigerian youths against hunger and hardship, it has proactively deployed both material and human resources across the nation’s capital. “The proactive deployment aims to ensure public safety, protect protesters, and prevent protests from being hijacked by non-state actors. “It includes visibility policing and the deployment of explosive ordnance device (EOD) experts and personnel at various strategic locations. “Additionally, operatives will conduct raids on identified black spots, uncompleted buildings, and shanties. They will also engage in stop-and-search operations, vehicular and foot patrols, and maintain synergy with sister security agencies. The Commissioner of Police FCT, CP Benneth Igweh, while acknowledging the residents’ right to protest, advises that protests should remain peaceful. In a statement by SP Josephine Adeh, the spokesperson said, “The CP vows to resist all forms of violent protest and lawlessness, as the police will not be stampeded into allowing the destruction of public and private properties or loss of lives.” Residents are also urged to be vigilant and report suspicious activities via the following Police emergency lines: 08032003913, 08028940883, 08061581938, 07057337653 PCB: 09022222352 CRU: 08107314192

APC begs Nigerians to shun nationwide protest over hardship

By Doris Isreal Ijeoma The national working committee (NWC) of the All Progressives Congress, APC, has urged Nigerians to refrain from participating in the planned protest against President Bola Tinubu’s administration scheduled for August 1-10.  In a briefing held in Abuja on Wednesday, following the NWC’s 153rd meeting, APC National Secretary Surajudeen Basiru made this appeal. He encouraged Nigerians to trust in the current government’s ability to address the country’s economic issues. “The APC, alongside President Tinubu, appeals to those planning protests to reconsider their plans,” Basiru stated. “We ask for confidence in the government’s efforts to resolve the nation’s economic challenges.” Basiru acknowledged that the Tinubu administration, since its inception in 2023, has faced significant economic hurdles. He assured that the president is implementing policies and programs aimed at alleviating these issues and providing relief to citizens in the near future. He also noted that many of the country’s economic problems are global in nature and require comprehensive solutions. Some issues raised by protest organizers are political or constitutional and can only be addressed through amendments, which are currently underway in the National Assembly. Basiru urged those planning the protests to have faith in President Tinubu’s ongoing efforts to improve the economy and assured that current difficulties would eventually be resolved.  He also called on parents and concerned citizens to monitor their children and wards to prevent them from being used to incite disorder. Additionally, he announced that the party’s chairpersons from the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have been summoned for an emergency meeting to further discuss the matter.

Hardship: Why protest may get out of hand – Ndume

Former Senate Chief Whip, Ali Ndume, has urged President Bola Tinubu to listen to Nigerians youths ahead of the planned nationwide protest. Ndume warned Tinubu that the planned protest might get out of hand, hence he should listen to the youths. Speaking on Channels Television on Monday, the Borno South Senator said the planned protest might get out of hand because there is no identified leader. According to Ndume: “My fear is, looking at what happened during the EndSARS. I hope it does not get out of hand, especially when you cannot identify the leadership, that makes it more difficult. “I second the motion of the NLC president that Tinubu should listen to Nigerians. The president should talk to the youth.” Popular activist, Omoyele Sowore had called for a nationwide protest against the Nigerian government in August due to the hardship in the country. This is coming when Ndume had accused Tinubu of shutting his doors against his Ministers and lawmakers over the hardship in the country. In October 2020, young Nigerians took to the streets to protest against the disbanded Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS). The protests took another turn after soldiers shot at demonstrators at the Lekki tollgate in Lagos.

Accept Hardship as a Trial from God – APC Governor Tells Nigerians Amidst Planned Nationwide Protest

By Doris Isreal Ijeoma Governor Umar Namadi of Jigawa State has advised Nigerians to consider the current economic hardship as a test from God, rather than resorting to protests. The governor, who is a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), made this statement on Monday during a town hall meeting with 27 groups in Dutse. The meeting, which included representatives from the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), and the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), saw the groups disassociate themselves from the planned nationwide protest scheduled for August 1. Governor Namadi who acknowledged the economic challenges facing the country, said that protest is not the solution. He encouraged citizens to express their grievances through alternative means, such as prayer and seeking divine intervention. He said, “There are many ways people could express their grievances; people are at liberty to display their grievances through protest under democratic dispensation, but that isn’t the most effective way to address the problems. “The protest alone will not provide the solutions; people should turn to God, repent, seek for forgiveness and divine intervention on the challenges.” The governor highlighted the efforts of the government in providing relief measures, including food items, materials, and cash distribution, to cushion the effects of the hardship. He also reminded the people that the federal government had approved the importation of food items without import duty for five months. Namadi urged Nigerians to accept the hardships as a trial from God, citing the Islamic belief in destiny. Meanwhile, the Police Commissioner in Jigawa, Tijjani Abdullahi, warned those planning to participate in the protest to reconsider. “The security agencies in the state are combat-ready to deal with anyone who wants to breach public peace and order,” he said.

Hardship: Why Nigerian govt needs to reopen borders – FCCPC

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has appealed to the Federal Government to reopen the country’s borders to allow for legitimate importation of food items to combat hunger among Nigerians. The commission said that reopening borders would facilitate food importation, while stabilizing market prices. It made the call during an advocacy meeting with traditional rulers and other stakeholders held at the Emir’s palace in Bauchi. Acting Executive Chairman of the Commission, Adamu Abdullahi, highlighted the FCCPC’s ongoing efforts in advocacy and public awareness regarding price gouging and other unfair trade practices in Nigerian markets. Abdullahi explained that the Commission’s visit aimed to sensitize stakeholders on their rights and help them identify counterfeit products and proper channels for lodging complaints. “As mediators, we ensure that substandard products are repaired, replaced, or refunded to the consumer if they are unsatisfied with their purchase,” Abdullahi stated. He expressed concern about escalating commodity prices due to the recent appreciation of the naira against the dollar, calling the situation unacceptable. “The FCCPC remains dedicated to promoting fair competition, protecting consumers, and fostering a regulated marketplace. We encourage citizens to be vigilant and actively report any violations,” he added. Responding, the Emir of Bauchi, Rilwanu Sulaiman Adamu, expressed concern over the rising prices in markets, particularly for food items, which he noted are causing hardship for citizens. Represented by the District Head of Lame, Alhaji Yakubu Aliyu Lame, the Emir urged the Federal Government to take urgent action to reduce food prices, stressing the suffering of ordinary Nigerians. Rilwanu Sulaiman Adamu assured that the traditional institution in the state is ready to help raise public awareness about the commission’s activities to ensure the message reaches the targeted audience.

Hardship: FG Sets To Begin Food Distribution Nationwide 

As part of efforts to cushion the impacts of the hardship in Nigeria the Federal Government is set to begin the distribution of grains nationwide. Minister of Agriculture and Food Security Senator Abubakar Kyari disclosed this on Monday, hailing the resilience of the Nigerian people. He urged them to back President Bola Tinubu’s government in its quest to address the challenges facing the country. “Dear Fellow Nigerians,” he wrote on his official X handle. “In these trying times, I extend my sincere compassion to those affected by the hardships in the country. I understand the gravity of the situation, especially with the unfortunate event of foodstuff warehouse looting. “Amidst these challenges, I want to assure you that our commitment to your well-being remains resolute. We shall commence the distribution of 42,000 metric tons of grains, as approved by Mr. President, across the 36 states of the federation as one of the programs to be rolled out this week. “We are working hand in hand with NEMA and the DSS to ensure that the grains get to the right people in the right packages and quantities. Furthermore, 58,500 metric tons of milled rice from mega rice millers will also be released into the market for stabilization.” “I acknowledge the strength of the Nigerian people, and it is this resilience that will guide us through these difficult times. Let us stand together to support Mr. President in his strive for a better Nigeria,” Kyari said. “Our government under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is committed to addressing these challenges and working towards a more secure and prosperous future for all.”

NLC kicks off nationwide strike; says no overture from FG

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) on Wednesday began its nationwide strike, with its President Comrade Joe Ajaero saying that there has been no advances or promises from the Federal Government for them not to proceed with the industrial action. NLC President, Comrade Joe Ajaero, who spoke on ChannelsTV which was monitored by NIGERIAN ANCHOR, said the protests have begun in earnest, but however regretted the Federal Government’s nonchalance in not making any overtures to stop it. “As you can see, the nationwide protest has started and we are moving on. There has been no overture or promise from the Federal Government concerning this planned protest which means we are going ahead with it” Ajaero said. The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) had faced a tough decision on whether to proceed with their planned nationwide protest or cancel it, with the Federal Government making efforts to thwart the protest. Chief of Staff to the President, Bola Tinubu’s representative, Femi Gbajabiamila, had on Tuesday urged the labour unions to call off the proposed strike, citing palliative measures announced by the President on Monday night as reasons to shelve the protest. He said, “We have laid out the plans, the interventions of Mr. President, as you all heard in his broadcast yesterday, we made it clear that this was just Mr. President’s initial rollout and interventions and that conversations will be ongoing as we go along. “And we appealed to Labour, we did appeal to labour to call off the protests for tomorrow. We found listening ears here and they did agree that they all accepted that Mr. President’s broadcast was a welcome development and that they will go back home to talk to the other leaders that are not present today. So we’re hopeful that they will do the right thing and call off the strike tomorrow.” Adding to the complexity, a Coalition of Civil Society Organisations/Labour Centre has cautioned the NLC and TUC against proceeding with the strike. They expressed concerns about the potential consequences on the nation, fearing that the protest could be hijacked by disgruntled Nigerians benefiting from fuel subsidies, leading to loss of lives and property. This cautionary message was conveyed in a communique issued after a meeting at Lagos Airport Hotel, Ikeja, attended by representatives of various civil society groups. It was attended by Razak Olokoba of Campaign for Dignity in Governance (CDG), Nelson Ekujumi (Centre for Social and Economic Rights), Titi Akosa (Centre for 21st Century Issues), Linus Okoroji (Humanity Services Project), Raji Rasheed Oyewunmi (Yoruba Citizen Action for Change), Gbenga Soloki (Campaign Against Impunity and Domestic Violence), Razaq Oladosu (Grassroots Democratic Initiatives), Ramat Abdulrazak (Women Grassroot Network), among others.  It awaits to be seen how the strike action will pan out after its first day (today).

Subsidy: NLC in dilemma over planned strike amid CSOs’ pullout

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) are facing a tough decision on whether to proceed with their planned nationwide protest or cancel it. The Federal Government is making efforts to thwart the protest, with the Chief of Staff to the President, Bola Tinubu’s representative, Femi Gbajabiamila, urging the labour unions to call off the proposed strike. He cited palliative measures announced by the President the previous night as reasons to shelve the protest. He said, “We have laid out the plans, the interventions of Mr. President, as you all heard in his broadcast yesterday, we made it clear that this was just Mr. President’s initial rollout and interventions and that conversations will be ongoing as we go along. “And we appealed to Labour, we did appeal to labour to call off the protests for tomorrow. We found listening ears here and they did agree that they all accepted that Mr. President’s broadcast was a welcome development and that they will go back home to talk to the other leaders that are not present today. So we’re hopeful that they will do the right thing and call off the strike tomorrow.” Adding to the complexity, a Coalition of Civil Society Organisations/Labour Centre has cautioned the NLC and TUC against proceeding with the strike. They expressed concerns about the potential consequences on the nation, fearing that the protest could be hijacked by disgruntled Nigerians benefiting from fuel subsidies, leading to loss of lives and property. This cautionary message was conveyed in a communique issued after a meeting at Lagos Airport Hotel, Ikeja, attended by representatives of various civil society groups. It was attended by Razak Olokoba of Campaign for Dignity in Governance (CDG), Nelson Ekujumi (Centre for Social and Economic Rights), Titi Akosa (Centre for 21st Century Issues), Linus Okoroji (Humanity Services Project), Raji Rasheed Oyewunmi (Yoruba Citizen Action for Change), Gbenga Soloki (Campaign Against Impunity and Domestic Violence), Razaq Oladosu (Grassroots Democratic Initiatives), Ramat Abdulrazak (Women Grassroot Network), among others. Furthermore, 16 Northern-based civil society groups under the Coalition of Arewa Civil Society Organisations have also pulled out from supporting the strike, afraid that it could harm the already fragile economy and inflict further hardship on ordinary citizens. The Federal government, on its part, has pleaded with Organised Labour to suspend the strike, assuring them that they are taking measures to address the hardship caused by the removal of petrol subsidies. However, the NLC remains adamant and insists on proceeding with the national protest, asserting that the palliatives presented by the President are inadequate to alleviate the suffering in the country. In a press briefing at the end of the Presidential Steering Committee on Palliatives, the Chief of Staff to the President, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, expressed hope that the labour unions would reconsider their decision and call off the planned strike after discussions with absent leaders. Meanwhile, the NLC, led by its Deputy President, Comrade Titus Amba, maintained that the President’s palliative measures were insufficient to address the issues at hand.

Tinubu to address Nigerians amid nationwide hardship

On Monday, July 31, 2023, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will deliver a broadcast to the nation at 7 pm. The announcement was made on Monday morning by Dele Alake, the presidential spokesman, urging television, radio stations, and other electronic media outlets to tune in to the network services of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) and Radio Nigeria for the broadcast. Though the specific content of the address remains undisclosed, it comes at a time when the country is grappling with widespread hardship due to the removal of fuel subsidy, leading to an increase in petrol prices. President Tinubu has consistently appealed for calm, assuring the public that the government is diligently working to improve living conditions and alleviate the prevailing challenges. Interestingly, this address coincides with an upcoming nationwide protest by the organized labour, which is parleying civil society organisations as they prepare for an industrial action on August 2, and the ongoing strike by the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD). The NARD has rejected the recent 25% increment in basic salary announced by the federal government, demanding the full restoration of the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure to its original value as approved in 2009. The association, represented by its president, Dr. Orji Emeka Innocent, secretary-general Dr. Chikezie Kelechi, and publicity and social secretary Dr. Umar Musa, vows to continue the nationwide total and indefinite strike action until the government takes significant steps to address their demands, including the release of the circular on the One-for-One policy for the replacement of exited clinical workers to ease work overload caused by brain drain. As Nigerians await President Tinubu’s address on Monday night, the nation is at a crucial juncture, grappling with pressing issues that demand immediate attention and resolution.