Governor Bassy Otu Signs N296bn Budget, Economy Tops
Governor Bassey Otu of Cross Rivers State, Friday, signed the ‘Peoples First’ Budget of N296, 985, 631, 978.1k into law. A statement by the Chief Press Secretary, of the governor, Emmanuel Ogbeche, stated that the event has the economic sector topping with N104, 986, 870, 898.59 billion. Presenting the estimates to the State House of Assembly on October 26, Gov. Otu said, “We have prioritized a higher capital expenditure over recurrent expenditure in our public expenditure structure, a “As a deliberate principle, we have maintained a higher capital–recurrent expenditure of 61.6% to 38.4%. “This not only emphasizes the importance of structural development but also a demonstration of the State’s commitment to the provision of the much-needed infrastructural facilities in our rural and urban centres.” Though the Governor had proposed a budget size of N250 billion with N154 billion as capital expenditure and N96 billion for recurrent expenditure, the Assembly jerked it up by N46 billion to N296 billion. The new budget bucket has capital expenditure of N180 billion and recurrent expenditure of N116 billion. Speaking at the budget signing, Governor Otu said, “the increase is predicated on the need to provide adequate financial support to our people living with disabilities which I requested for, after laying the Budget proposal before the State House of Assembly. “The increase in the budget allocation for this community is not just a necessity but a moral imperative: to erase social imbalance of this special demographics as they are a vulnerable group. They require specialized care, adaptive equipment, and access to resources that accommodate their unique needs. “This increase will facilitate better access to healthcare, assistive technologies, education, and employment opportunities tailored to their capabilities. Therefore, it is not just a fiscal decision but a statement of our values as a society which is espoused by my administration. “In addition, there is an upscale budgetary provision for payment of gratuity, debt services, counterpart funds, nutrition activities, social protection, climate change and gender responsive budget.” He further assured that, “This Administration is committed to prudent spending, effective governance, and unwavering dedication to the welfare of our people. “Towards this end, I have directed that efforts be made to ensure the earlier submission of the 2024-2026 Medium-Term Expenditure Framework and Fiscal Strategy Paper. “To achieve the laudable objectives of the 2024 Budget, we will further intensify our revenue mobilization efforts.” Aware of dwindling revenue inflow, the Governor noted that, “I am optimistic about our ability to finance the budget with creative funding options. We hope to surpass our revenue targets, therefore, revenue-generating agencies, and indeed all MDAs must ensure prompt and full remittances of collected revenues.” Highlights of the budget include; economic sector – N104, 986, 870, 898.59 billion; general administration – N95, 815, 641, 732.54 billion; law and justice – N7, 947, 139, 687.33 billion; regional sector – N1, 262, 390, 126.52 billion, and social sector – N86, 973, 489, 533.02 billion.
APC To Establish Institute Of Progressive Studies
The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Ganduje, has announced the party’s intention to launch a National Institute of Progressive Studies in the coming year, as part of its strategic initiatives. During a discussion with State House Correspondents after meeting with President Bola Tinubu at the APC National Working Committee in Lagos on Thursday, Ganduje revealed that the institute’s primary aim would be to imbue party members and the public with a deeper understanding of democratic principles. Ganduje emphasized that the institute’s focus would extend to educating individuals on various aspects of democracy, including internal party democracy, discouraging hate speech, and ensuring compliance with legal protocols governing elections and related processes. “The establishment of the National Institute of Progressive Studies aims to enlighten both our party members and the general public about the essence of democracy. It will address issues like internal democracy, discouraging hate speech, and ensuring adherence to legal regulations concerning elections and other related procedures,” Ganduje stated. He further highlighted that this institution would collaborate closely with the government to formulate policies conducive to strengthening democratic values within the country.
Gunmen Kill 2 Policemen In Anambra
Tragedy struck in the Uga Community of Aguata Local Government Area, Anambra State, as gunmen unleashed terror, resulting in the deaths of at least two policemen and several others on Thursday, December 29, 2023. Residents urgently called upon security agencies and State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, for intervention as armed assailants wielding AK-47 rifles conducted kidnappings and gunfire with impunity at the Uga junction. Witnesses described the scene as chaotic and violent. The incident occurred at a junction leading to the homes of prominent political figures, including APC chieftain, Andy Uba, and PDP leader, Chris Uba. Reportedly, the gunmen abducted individuals from luxury cars, engaging in an intense exchange of gunfire when confronted by police officers. Disturbing video clips circulating on social media depict the aftermath, showing slain officers and abandoned SUVs with signs of forced abduction. Police confirmed the attack, revealing the assailants were disguised in military gear and likely crossed over from a neighboring state. Despite the brave efforts of officers from Enugu State attempting to thwart the attackers and ensure the safety of motorists, the gunmen managed to escape, leaving a trail of tragic fatalities and uncertainty in their wake.
BREAKING: Kebbi LG Chairman is dead
The Executive Chairman of Maiyama Local Government Area, Hon. Zayyanu Muhammad Bello, is dead. The Kebbi State Government officially announced his passing after a prolonged illness, Daily Post reports. The news of his death was conveyed to the public through a statement released by Ahmed Idris, the spokesman for the state governor, on Thursday. Bello, a dedicated public servant, breathed his last early in the morning at the Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital (UDUTH) in Sokoto. “Regrettably, with a heavy heart, I announce the death of Hon. Zayyanu Muhammad Bello, Executive Chairman of Maiyama Local Government. “He died early this morning at UDUTH Sokoto after a protracted illness.” The statement read. The statement added that the government would communicate details of his burial arrangements to the public in due course.
INEC Implements FG Retirement Policy: Four Directors set to Retire
In compliance with the government’s reviewed policy on retirement from the federal public service, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has approved the retirement of four directors of Election Management Body. Based on circular number HSCF/SPSO/268/T3/2/37 issued on July 27, 2023, it becomes mandatory for a director who has put in eight years of service on the rank to retire. Sam Olumekun, the National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, revealed that INEC will comply with the government’s directive requiring Directors with eight or more years of service to retire from the public sector. This decision will result in four directors proceeding on terminal leave. Notably, two of these directors hold pivotal roles as heads of departments at the National Headquarters, while the remaining two occupy the positions of Administrative Secretaries within the State offices. However, an exemption clause under Circular MH. 7205/T/31 dated September 7, 2023, exempts Clinical Officers within the medical cadre from this retirement policy. Olumekun conveyed the Commission’s well-wishes to the affected Directors as they prepare to conclude their tenure and retire from their roles within the Commission.
Akeredolu’s Death, A Big Blow To APC – Tinubu Mourns
President Bola Tinubu has mourned the demise of Ondo State Governor, Rotimi Akeredolu. Akeredolu, 67, died in the early hours of Wednesday, December 27 after a prolonged battle with leukemia. Reacting to the Southwest governor’s death, Tinubu in a statement on Wednesday described Akeredolu as man who moved the nation towards equity, fairness and justice in his strident advocacy against every form of injustice. “Rotimi was a strong voice in wilderness calling us to rethink our security architecture so we can have a more secure nation. His unrelenting advocacy led to the birth of the local police in the South West. “Rotimi was a man of ideas and action. While he was with us, he taught us the power of action and service. “We fought many battles together to restore progressive governance in the South West, Edo State and Nigeria as a whole. “Governor Akeredolu was not just a friend, ally and associate, he was a brother and soulmate. “His death is a blow to our governing APC and the progressive family as we are diminished by it. “I hope that his successor Aiyedatiwa will hold steadfast to the vision of governance left by this towering political leader”, part of the statement read.
Plateau massacre: Death toll hits 150, over 6,000 displaced
Death toll from the attacks launched on 23 villages in Bokkos and Barkin Ladi local government areas of Plateau State, from Saturday night to early Monday morning rose to 155 yesterday; while over 6,000 people are said to have been displaced. The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) condemned the attacks and called for a change in military tactics. Abdul-Azeez Suleiman, Director, Publicity and Advocacy/Spokesperson, NEF, in a statement, said: “NEF expresses concern over the inability of the military to prevent the Christmas Eve killings, despite claiming to have promptly responded to 36 distress calls from different locations in Plateau State in the 48 hours leading up to Christmas. This highlights the Forum’s growing suspicions regarding the efficacy and sufficiency of the government’s operational methods. “NEF questions whether the strategies employed by the government are flawed or grossly inadequate, given the audacious regularity and ease with which the attackers operate across the northern region. “NEF is also deeply concerned about the recent security incident in Ruwan Dorawa village, Zamfara State that unfolded on the same Christmas Eve resulting in the loss of two innocent lives and the abduction of over 25 individuals, predominantly children and women, including the wife of the village head. “In light of this incident and the escalating security challenges faced by the region, NEF urgently demands a comprehensive investigation into the reported security lapse in Ruwan Dorawa village. The findings of this inquiry must be made public, and those responsible for the security breach must be held accountable to ensure justice for the victims and prevent such incidents from reoccurring,” the statement said. The Forum also called upon the relevant authorities to give immediate attention to the several administrative and judicial commissions of inquiry reports concerning security incidents in Plateau, Kaduna and other conflict areas in the North. It further called “For a reassessment of the current strategies deployed by the government, as they have proved ineffective and inefficient in curbing the escalating violence. NEF strongly condemns this devastating act and expresses its heartfelt condolences to the families affected by this heinous crime.” Kwara State governor and Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, described the attacks on Plateau villages as shocking and sad. In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Rafiu Ajakaye, the governor asked the security agencies to get to the root of the incident. He condolled with the people and government of Plateau, especially the bereaved families. He said, “Nothing justifies the violence visited on innocent people” and urged the security agencies to get to the roots of the incident and bring perpetrators to book. He prayed to God to give comfort to all the affected families and appealed to everyone on the Plateau to do everything to avoid “A cycle of violence, which only inflicts generational pains and underdevelopment”. Similarly, the Northern States Governors’ Forum described the attacks as reprehensible and heinous. Its chairman and governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, expressed deepest condolences to the affected families and communities as well as the government and people of Plateau State. In a statement by his spokesman, Ismaila Uba Misilli, he said it was “Reprehensible and disheartening to hear the loss of over 100 hundred lives and destruction of properties that occurred during these attacks, especially during a time when residents were preparing to celebrate the festive season. “Such acts of violence are not only cowardly but also run counter to the spirit of unity and coexistence that our region upholds. “We must all prioritise peace and harmonious living in our communities. Now, more than ever, we must reaffirm our commitment to peaceful coexistence and solidarity regardless of our differences. “We must unite in our commitment to peace and security, and stand firm against all forms of violence and division,” the governor warned in the statement. Yahaya commended Governor Caleb Mutfwang for his leadership and responsible handling of the situation in the aftermath of the attacks and assured him that the northern governors stood united in solidarity with him in the face of adversity and would work together towards lasting peace in Plateau State. He commended the security agencies operating in the area, and implored them to redouble their efforts in safeguarding the lives and property of the people, harping on urgent need for increased vigilance and swift action to ensure the safety of all citizens. He also urged members of the communities to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious activities to the security agencies for immediate intervention. Meanwhile, the governor of Plateau State, Celeb Mutfwang, said 64 communities in the state had been displaced by terrorists occupying the areas and some schools. Speaking on Channels Television yesterday, Mutfwang highlighted the immense burden placed on the state by the continuous displacement of citizens due to terrorist activities. He said, “When people are dislocated from their villages and they have to run for shelter, now we are struggling to provide shelter for these people that have been displaced and dislocated from their communities. “If they stay away from those communities for a sustained period of time, the terrorists would come in. As I am talking to you today (Tuesday), in Riyom Local Government, in Barkin Ladi Local Government, schools have been occupied by these terrorists for almost a number of years now. “We have not less than 64 communities that have been displaced and their lands have been taken over by these terrorists.” The governor condemned the perceived inaction under the previous administration, stating that residents felt the terrorists were given official government backing. He emphasised that the current occupation of schools did not happen overnight, with some having been seized for as long as five years. “Under the last regime, the feeling among people in Plateau State particularly the victims of these terrorist attacks was that it looked as if the terrorists were given official government backing to be able to terrorise them because little or nothing was done to repel these attacks. “I can tell you these schools
Breaking! Former House of Reps Speaker Is Dead
Ghali Umar Na’Abba, a former speaker of the house of representatives, is dead. He was aged 65. The 8th speaker of Nigeria’s green chamber died in Abuja on Wednesday morning. Na’Abba was born on September 27, 1958. Ghali Na’abba served under the tenure of President Olusegun Obasanjo as speaker of the house of reps. N’abba was born on September 27, 1958. He is a political scientist with a Bachelor’s degree from the prestigious Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. He also attended Jakara primary school and Rumfa college, both in Kano state. He is an astute businessman with interests in importation, manufacturing and publishing. He worked as secretary of the Na’Abba Commercial Trading Company Limited before becoming the Managing Director of Manifold Limited then became Director, Quick Prints Limited and the Managing Director, Hinterland Resources Limited.
Vice President Shettima, Governors Visit Tinubu In Lagos
Vice President Kashim Shettima made an official visit to President Bola Tinubu at his private residence in Lagos State. This visit, occurring just a day after the Christmas Day celebrations, signifies a strategic engagement between the two prominent political figures. President Tinubu had recently arrived in Lagos from Abuja, intending to spend the Christmas and New Year holidays in his home state. In a show of respect and solidarity, members of the Nigerian Governors Forum also paid homage to President Tinubu at his Lagos residence, echoing the visit made earlier by Vice President Shettima.
Kwankwaso Holds Special Prayer Session Ahead Of Supreme Court Verdict
Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, the leader of the Kwankwasiyya political faction, organized a special prayer gathering at his residence in Kano on Monday. This prayer session was aimed to implore divine intervention from God regarding the eagerly awaited Supreme Court decision on the Kano gubernatorial dispute. The Islamic group, Mu’assatul Kwankwasiyya, orchestrated this prayer session, with prominent figures like Mallam Yahaya Sufi, Mallam Ashiru Nata’ala, Mallam Bazallahi Nasiru Kabara, and Mallam Sadiq Isiyaku Rabiu leading the prayers. Their supplications included seeking success for Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf in the Supreme Court ruling and praying for the continued peace and harmony within the state. This session saw the presence of certain members of the current administration’s cabinet, other political appointees, and supporters affiliated with the Kwankwasiyya movement. The Supreme Court, under the stewardship of Justice Inyang Okoro and a panel of five justices, on Sunday reserved its judgment subsequent to hearing arguments from legal representatives involved in the case.