Trump Threatens 25% Tariff on Countries Doing Business With Iran Amid Protests

WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump said the United States would impose a 25 per cent tariff on all trade with any country that does business with Iran, escalating economic pressure on Tehran as it faces its largest anti-government protests in years. “Effective immediately, any Country doing business with the Islamic Republic of Iran will pay a Tariff of 25 per cent on any and all business being done with the United States of America,” Trump said in a post on Truth Social, adding that the order was “final and conclusive.” No official documentation outlining the policy appeared on the White House website, and the administration has not clarified the legal authority for the proposed tariffs or whether they would apply to all of Iran’s trading partners. The White House did not respond to a request for comment. Under U.S. law, tariffs are paid by American importers, meaning the cost would likely be borne initially by U.S. companies and consumers. Iran, a member of the OPEC oil-producing group, has been under extensive U.S. sanctions for years. It exports most of its oil to China, with Turkey, Iraq, the United Arab Emirates and India also among its key trading partners. China criticised Trump’s announcement, with its embassy in Washington opposing what it called “illicit unilateral sanctions and long-arm jurisdiction.” A spokesperson said China would take “all necessary measures” to safeguard its interests, adding that “tariff wars and trade wars have no winners.” Japan and South Korea, both of which reached trade agreements with the United States last year, said they were closely monitoring developments. South Korea’s trade ministry said it would consider its response once U.S. actions became clear, while Japan said it would examine the potential impact and respond appropriately. Trump’s comments come as Iran grapples with widespread unrest that has evolved from protests over economic hardship into calls for the overthrow of the country’s clerical leadership. The demonstrations represent one of the most serious challenges to Iran’s ruling establishment since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. U.S.-based rights group HRANA said it had verified the deaths of 599 people since protests began on December 28, including 510 protesters and 89 members of security forces. Iran, which fought a brief war with U.S. ally Israel last year and whose nuclear facilities were bombed by U.S. forces in June, said it is keeping communication channels open with Washington. Trump has said the U.S. may meet Iranian officials and that he has been in contact with Iran’s opposition, while also threatening military action. “Diplomacy is always the first option for the president,” White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said on Monday, though she acknowledged that other options remain on the table. The tariff threat is consistent with Trump’s broader trade strategy in his second term, during which he has repeatedly used tariffs to pressure countries over trade practices and ties with U.S. adversaries. However, his approach faces legal uncertainty, as the U.S. Supreme Court is considering whether to strike down a wide range of existing Trump-era tariffs. According to World Bank data, Iran exported goods to 147 trading partners in 2022, underscoring the potentially wide-reaching implications of Trump’s proposal if it is formally implemented.

Safety Violation: HEDA Petitions Police, Wants Probe, Sanction Of Max Air

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has petitioned the Nigeria Police Force against Max Air, citing grave concerns over the endangerment of lives due to reported safety violations. This move comes in the wake of Max Air’s purported presentation of altered records to the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and its alleged engagement of unauthorized engineers in aircraft servicing. Max Air was suspended after one of its aircraft crash-landed at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja on May 7, 2023. The incident imperiled the lives of more than 143 passengers on board In a petition signed by HEDA’s Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, addressed to the Inspector General of Police, Dr. Kayode Egbetokun, the CSO detailed the findings of the NCAA audit, which was conducted between July 17, 2023, and July 20, 2023. The audit exposed a litany of safety deficiencies within Max Air’s operations, ultimately resulting in a second suspension. “HEDA therefore unequivocally calls for a thorough and exhaustive investigation into these allegations, as well as appropriate legal actions against the management of Max Air Ltd,” it said, in the petition. The comprehensive 11-page audit report and accompanying correspondences revealed a staggering 27 critical safety issues observed within the airline’s fleet under scrutiny. “These issues encompassed a wide range of concerns, including but not limited to: Alleged submission of altered records to the NCAA, coupled with the failure to replace life-limited components in accordance with regulations, and absence of substantial evidence to defend the airworthiness of recently installed landing gears on one of Max Air’s aircraft. “Other breaches are: documentation of incorrect maintenance practices, notably following a bird strike incident; the engagement of unauthorized engineers in performing maintenance tasks; neglect of mandatory duplicate inspections following pivotal tasks; ineffective management of Airworthiness Directives for the entire fleet; shortcomings in the qualifications of Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) personnel; and non-compliance with established procedures for ensuring the efficacy of the Aircraft Maintenance Program. “These serious findings highlight a pattern of disregard for safety regulations and standards by Max Air, putting the lives of air travelers at risk. HEDA strongly urged the Nigeria Police to conduct an exhaustive investigation into the contents of the NCAA audit report and to take action.

Regularise your tax positions or face sanctions, FIRS warns shippers

The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has mandated all shipping companies operating in Nigeria’s territorial waters to regularize their outstanding tax return before 31st December 2023. The service disclosed this in a public statement made available to the public and signed by its Executive Chairman, Muhammad Nami. FIRS noted the order is the sequel to two previous seculars of June and December 2021 wherein it provided the basis of taxation of international shipping lines and also called on them to regularize their tax affairs with the service within three months. The circular also stated that the FIRS had observed that many international shipping lines operating in the country had not been complying with the nation’s extant tax laws. “The circular provides the basis of taxation for all international shipping lines in Nigeria and the public notice requested all international shipping lines to regularise their tax affairs with the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) within three months of the date of that publication” “Consequently, the Service hereby requests all international shipping companies operating in Nigerian territorial waters in whatever capacity (containerized, bulk cargo, fishing trawlers, crude oil and natural gas lifting vessels, dredging, survey, floating, production, storage, and offloading, etc.) to immediately regularise their tax positions.” The service noted that it is collaborating with relevant security agencies to prosecute defaulting shipping agencies after December 2023. The statement reads, “The Service is collaborating with relevant government regulatory and security agencies in the maritime sector to commence enforcement action on defaulting shipping companies after the expiration of the grace period of December 31, 2023”

CBN opens FX price verification system portal

*Vows to sanction infractors   In a bid to address the constraints that has bedeviled the foreign exchange market, the Central Bank of Nigeria has introduced a foreign exchange price verification system, specifically for importers to access forex. The portal is scheduled to begin on August 31, 2023. The CBN’s Trade and Exchange Department said in statement that the price verification report from the portal is now mandatory for all ‘Form M’ requests. “Following the successful conduct of the pilot run and various trainings held with all the banks, the Central Bank of Nigeria hereby announces the Go- Live of the Price Verification System (PVS),” the statement reads. “All applications for Forms M shall be accompanied by a valid price verification report generated from the price verification portal. “For the avoidance of doubt, by this circular, the price verification report has become a mandatory trade document precedent to the completion of a Form M,” the statement said. The Apex Bank insisted that it would not fail to sanction any case of infraction. “Please, ensure compliance,” the Bank said.

Niger Military Junta vows to prosecute ousted Bazoum for ‘high treason’

*Says it’s open to diplomatic resolution; decries ECOWAS sanctions Niger’s military junta announced late on Sunday its intention to press charges of “high treason” against former President Mohamed Bazoum, who was ousted from power, even as the regime also criticized the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) for imposing sanctions on the nation. ECOWAS had placed sanctions on Niger as a response to the coup and had not ruled out the possibility of using force against the military officers responsible for toppling the democratically elected Bazoum on July 26. While ECOWAS had approved the potential deployment of a “standby force to restore constitutional order” in Niger, it maintained its commitment to pursuing a diplomatic resolution to the crisis. In a statement delivered on national television by Colonel-Major Amadou Abdramane late Sunday night, Niger’s military leaders conveyed their intent to prosecute Bazoum for “high treason” and for undermining both the internal and external security of Niger. The former president, aged 63, along with his family, has been confined to the official Niamey residence since the coup, raising international concerns about their well-being during detention. According to sources close to Bazoum, he received a medical check-up on Saturday, and the military authorities stated that the doctor found no health issues concerning the deposed president and his family. The military also decried the sanctions imposed on Niger, asserting that they had led to difficulties in accessing essential supplies such as medicines, food, and electricity. They characterized these sanctions as “illegal, inhumane, and humiliating.” The remarks from the military came shortly after a meeting between religious mediators and coup leader General Abdourahamane Tiani. During the meeting, Tiani expressed his regime’s openness to diplomatic discussions and peaceful resolution of the crisis. Sheikh Bala Lau, part of a Nigerian Muslim delegation that engaged in talks in Niamey, reported that Tiani stated their willingness to explore diplomacy and peace in addressing the situation. Tiani also contended that the coup had been executed with good intentions, aimed at averting an imminent threat that could have impacted both Nigeria and Niger. Tiani lamented that ECOWAS had issued an ultimatum demanding Bazoum’s restoration without giving them an opportunity to present their perspective on the matter. Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu, who also serves as the head of ECOWAS, sanctioned the visit of the Muslim leaders to Niamey. Tinubu had adopted a resolute stance against the coup, marking the sixth instance of such an occurrence in an ECOWAS member state since 2020. ECOWAS had enacted stringent measures, including halting financial transactions and electricity supplies and sealing borders with Niger, causing significant disruptions to imports in one of the world’s most impoverished countries. The organization had set a seven-day ultimatum for the reinstatement of Bazoum, threatening a potential use of force, but the deadline passed without compliance from the new rulers. A crisis meeting scheduled for Accra, Ghana, was canceled for “technical reasons.” Support for the new military leadership has manifested in public demonstrations, with large crowds gathering in Niamey. Concerts at the Seyni Kountche Stadium saw thousands of individuals expressing backing for the National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland (CNSP), the group of generals who have assumed control. The gathering, primarily composed of youth, waved flags of Niger, Burkina Faso, Mali, and Russia. The prospect of a military intervention to reinstate Bazoum has polarized ECOWAS members and evoked warnings from international powers, including Russia and Algeria. Neighboring countries Mali and Burkina Faso, both governed by military regimes resulting from coups, have cautioned that such an intervention could escalate into a declaration of war against them.

Niger Coup: Tinubu didn’t ask Senate for permission to go to war- Akpabio

*Urges Tinubu, ECOWAS to exhaust all diplomatic options Senate President, Godswill Akpabio has said that President Bola Tinubu did not approach the Senate for permission to go to war in Niger over the recent coup d’etat as is been peddled in some quarters, but rather, on how best to resolve the current political impasse. Akpabio, who announced the resolutions on Saturday after a closed-door meeting which lasted for about two hours with the President Tinubu, urged him, as Chairman of ECOWAS, to encourage other ECOWAS leaders to further explore political and diplomatic options and other means towards resolving the political impasse in Niger Republic. The upper chamber also called on the ECOWAS Parliament to rise to the occasion by equally condemning the coup and also proffer solutions to resolve the impasse quickly. Niger President Mohamed Bazoum was on July 26, overthrown by his presidential guards. Akpabio said: “We discussed with President Bola Tinubu, who also doubles as the Chairman of ECOWAS and requested for support in the implementation of the resolutions of ECOWAS on the political situation in Nigeria and resolve as follows: “The leadership of the Senate is mandated to further engage with the President and Commander-in-Chief on behalf of the Senate and National Assembly on how best to resolve the issues. “This is in view of the hitherto existing cordial relationship between Nigeriens and Nigerians. “The Senate commends President Bola Tinubu and other Heads of State and Government of ECOWAS for their prompt response and the positions taken on the unfortunate development in Niger Republic. “The Senate recognises the fact that President Tinubu, by virtue of his correspondence had not asked for the approval of the parliament or approval of this Senate to go to war as is been erroneously suggested in some quarters. “Rather, Mr President and Commander-in-Chief had expressed and I quote: “I wish to respectfully solicit the support of the National Assembly in the successful implementation of the ECOWAS resolutions as outlined in the said communications.” The Senate President also said that the Senate condemned in totality the military coup that took place recently in Niger. Tinubu had in a letter to the Senate on Friday, conveyed the decisions of the ECOWAS on recent military intervention in Niger. The ECOWAS decision is contained in a letter addressed to the President of Senate and read at plenary on Friday. ”I do have the honour to inform you, that following the unfortunate political situation in Niger Republic culminating in the overthrow of the administration of His Excellency President Mohammed Bazoum on 26 July 2023. “The Economic Community of West Africa States (ECOWAS), under my leadership condemns the coup in its entirety and resolved alongside other members of the international community to seek the return of a democratically elected government in Niger,” the letter stated.

Niger: Tinubu writes Senate, highlights 7 resolutions to restoring democracy

In a bid pursuant to restore democracy in the neighboring Niger Republic, President Tinubu has written to the Nigerian Senate, seeking their support in implementing seven crucial resolutions aimed at pressuring the military junta to relinquish power and reinstate civilian rule. These resolutions reflect the collective will of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and underscore Nigeria’s commitment to regional stability and democratic values. The first resolution calls for a military buildup and deployment of personnel to Niger’s borders, with the intention of enforcing compliance with the military junta. The President emphasized that this measure is not an act of aggression but rather a deterrent to ensure the junta understands the seriousness of the international community’s stance on democratic governance. In another resolution, the President seeks the suspension of electricity supply to Niger Republic as a means of applying economic pressure. According to the President, this move sends a strong message to the military junta that their actions have consequences beyond their borders and aims to foster public discontent over the lack of essential services. President Tinubu also highlighted the importance of rallying international support for the implementation of ECOWAS provisions. Diplomatic efforts will be intensified to garner cooperation from other African nations and the global community, demonstrating a united front in the fight for democracy. To further isolate the military junta and disrupt their operations, the fourth resolution seeks from Tinubu seeks to prevent the operation of commercial and special flights to and from Niger Republic. This measure will curtail the junta’s mobility and impede their ability to sustain their rule. In a move to exert economic pressure, the President proposed a blockade of goods in transit to Niger, particularly from Lagos and eastern seaports. This tactic aims to disrupt the flow of goods and impact the junta’s access to essential supplies, further fueling discontent within the country, Recognizing the power of social media in shaping public opinion, the President urged the Senate to embark on a sensitization campaign, utilizing various platforms as this campaign will inform Nigerians and the international community about the necessity and importance of these actions, garnering support for the cause. The seventh resolution calls for the immediate closure and monitoring of all land borders with Niger Republic. Additionally, the border drilling exercise will be reactivated to tighten security and prevent any illicit activities that may undermine the resolution’s objectives. President Tinubu emphasized that these actions are not taken lightly and are in full accordance with ECOWAS’ commitment to upholding democratic principles in the region. The objective is to restore civilian rule, safeguard human rights, and pave the way for free and fair elections in Niger Republic. President Tinubu’s call for the implementation of these seven resolutions against Niger Republic marks a critical step in the restoration of democracy and the rule of law in the region.

COREN to sanction varsities over-admitting Engineering students

The Council for the Regulations of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN), has vowed to sanction any university or polytechnic that admits engineering students above its admission quota. The president of the council, Engr. Sadiq Zubair Abubakar, who disclosed this Wednesday in Abuja said: “Education is one of the key scorecards of COREN, and I am sure you know when you study the medical profession, there is an admission quota and if your university exceeds the number granted by the medical council, then that university will be sanctioned. If the number of enrollments exceeds your facilities, they will withdraw the certificate. “Engineering is not anything less, so we have activated that because it is already in our law, we have what we called the BMASS that defines the maximum number a university can admit in any of its engineering professions based on the facility of teaching and practical in workshop and laboratories, just like the medical students.  “We have already written to all universities; polytechnics and we are supposed to follow up with enforcement. We have had discussions with JAMB to do exactly what they are doing with the medical courses. And from the next academy session, you will not see any university that will admit engineering students more than their capacity. “Any institution that does that will be put in the spotlight and withdraw the mandate for them to teach just like other professions are doing. We want to make sure that the skill and proficiency of the graduates whether in universities or polytechnics in engineering is sacrosanct.”

Ezekwesili hails JAMB’s sanctions on Mmesoma for UTME result fraud

Obiageli Ezekwesili, a former Minister of Education, has voiced her support for the sanctions imposed by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) on Mmesoma Ejikeme for falsifying her Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) result. This comes after the Anambra State Committee of Inquiry set up by Governor Charles Soludo confirmed that Mmesoma, a student at Anglican Girls Secondary School, Nnewi, manipulated her result using her phone. Ezekwesili had previously called for a thorough investigation into the fraud allegations following JAMB’s decision to withdraw Mmesoma’s result and ban her from taking the examination for the next three years. However, in a Twitter post on Saturday, Ezekwesili expressed her support for the sanctions, stating that she had reviewed the report of the Anambra State Committee and was satisfied with their investigation process and findings, which allowed Mmesoma a fair hearing to gather all the relevant facts. Amid the ongoing controversy surrounding Mmesoma’s result, with JAMB asserting that her score of 249 was manipulated to 362, Ezekwesili emphasized the importance of conducting a comprehensive investigation to establish the truth of the matter. She expressed her contentment that the process provided Mmesoma with a fair hearing, as indicated by the Anambra State panel report, which was signed by the Commissioner for Information, Paul Nwosu. Below is the full statement by the former Minister titled: “Mmesoma and @JAMBHQ Saga” “I have just read the report of the Committee set up by Anambra State Government to investigate and report their independent findings on the Mmesoma and JAMB Saga. “I am satisfied with the process and findings of their investigation which gave Mmesoma a fair hearing to enable the Committee to gather all facts. “It was necessary to have independent evidence that the result Mmesoma laid claim to publicly was not only fake but that the forgery was personally orchestrated by her. “There are usually syndicates at the centre of perpetration of exam malpractices in Nigeria but it appears not to be so in Mmesoma’s case from the facts of the Committee’s report. “Mmesoma’s action has consequences. I, therefore, support the sanctions imposed by JAMB as a deterrent to all who participate in the systemic exam malpractices within our educational system. “I also recommend sustained counseling for Mmesoma by the family, school, and church to support her as she reflects on this tragic episode and makes a decision to embrace values and rewards of effort while eschewing dishonest gain for the rest of her life. “I do hope that the lessons of this case will help all our pupils, students, parents, guardians and the public at large renew a collective commitment to uphold Exam Integrity in Nigeria as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s Values and Reward System for our children and youth. “I wish to thank JAMB for their good work and encourage the Registrar and his team to continue with their critical service to our country and people as we all join them to sustain raising of awareness on Exam Integrity.”  Obiageli “Oby” EzekwesiliFormer Minister of Education