National

By Uzair Adam

As the national protests stretch into their fifth day, Global Rights, Nigeria, has strongly criticized the arrest of peaceful demonstrators, labeling it a violation of fundamental human rights.

Abiodun Baiyewu, Executive Director of Global Rights, Nigeria, in an interview with journalists, emphasized that the government’s actions in arresting peaceful protesters are unjust.

“These arrests violate their rights to freedom of assembly and expression,” Baiyewu said.

“The government speaks of wanting dialogue, yet its actions contradict this claim. Detaining protesters at this critical juncture is fundamentally wrong.”

Baiyewu called for the immediate release of those detained, clarifying, “While we understand the arrest of rioters in Kano State amidst chaos, detaining peaceful protesters infringes on basic human rights. The government must stop this behavior.”

She further cautioned that these arrests could exacerbate the situation, urging the government to reconsider its approach carefully.

By Uzair Adam

A Kano State Mobile Court ordered the remand of 632 protesters for alleged vandalism of public and government properties during the “Endbadgovernance” nationwide protest.

The charges against the defendants include criminal conspiracy, theft, unlawful assembly, inciting disturbance, trespass, and mischief by fire.

The court session was overseen by Senior Magistrate Ibrahim Mansur-Yola, Senior Magistrate Hadiza Rabiu-Bello, and Chief Magistrate Abba Muttaka-Dandago.

The court adjourned the hearing to August 19.

State Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) Salisu Tahir stated that the defendants committed the alleged offenses on August 1.

He claimed that during the protest, the defendants trespassed, vandalized government and public properties, broke into shops, and looted goods.

The prosecutor noted that the charges violate sections 97, 287, 229, 336, 349, and 247 of the Penal Code.

While some defendants pleaded guilty, others maintained their innocence.

State Attorney General Haruna Isa-Dederi told reporters that three mobile courts were set up to handle the large number of defendants.

He emphasized that the Ministry of Justice would review the case diary and provide appropriate advice before the next court session.

By Uzair Adam

There is growing concern over the recent actions of protesters in Nigeria, particularly in the north, where aggrieved youths were seen waving the Russian flag during demonstrations against hunger and starvation in the country.

The Daily Reality reports that the “EndBadGovernance” protest began on August 1st and saw a large turnout. Many youths and women took to the streets to voice their worries amid worsening economic hardship.

However, the protests took an unexpected turn when demonstrators were seen waving the Russian flag and chanting slogans, asking for Russia to come to their rescue as the biting economic hardship exacerbated with each passing day.

Political Analysts React

Political analysts suggest that waving the Russian flag may stem from ignorance of global politics, describing the situation as an incredible display of “unpatriotism” by the aggrieved youths and women.

Russia as the Last Hope

The protesters argued that they knew exactly what they were doing and viewed their actions as a passionate plea to the Russian government to rescue the Nigerian masses from their devastating challenges. 

The youths, who perceive Russia as a “freedom fighter” for African countries, said they would never seek help from England, despite its historical ties to Nigeria, as they believe England harbours bad intentions against the country.

A group of youths told our reporter that they are pleading for Russian intervention since England remains silent on Nigeria’s problems. “America, too, will not speak because it is in the same boat as England,” they argued.

Ibrahim Muhammad (not his real name) said they were waving the flag to frustrate the federal government and clarify that they no longer cared for a country that had ignored their concerns. 

“I am waving this flag to make President Bola Ahmad Tinubu sad. These people don’t care about our problems and do whatever it takes to make us angry,” he stated.

Another protester, Isma’il Usman, said Russia is the only country they should now turn to for help, “especially looking at its recent interventions in some African countries.”

When Ignorance and Unpatriotism Shake Hands

According to analysts who spoke to The Daily Reality, the waving of the Russian flag by the youths is a demonstration of both ignorance and unpatriotism.

Professor Kamilu Sani Fagge, a lecturer in the Department of Political Science at Bayero University Kano, noted that while youths lack an understanding of global politics, certain individuals may have lured them into doing so. 

“There could be some people behind this movement, and people were pushed to the wall in this country, which could also be why they accepted to wave the flag during the protest,” he stated.

“However, the government is to blame for all this because it should have taken action to stop the protest by addressing these problems, but it refused. Now that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has addressed the nation, there is still no hope,” Professor Fagge added.

An Invitation to Neo-Colonialism

Another analyst, Malam Sulaiman Muhammad, a lecturer at Aminu Kano College of Islamic and Legal Studies, argued that government negligence has deteriorated the situation, leading to more unpatriotic youth in the country. 

He warned that by pleading for Russian intervention, the youths are ignorantly inviting a new form of colonialism.

“I think the youths are not seeking intervention from England and France because England colonised Nigeria and the latter colonised Nigeria’s sister country, Niger. However, they forget that pleading for Russian soldiers’ presence in Nigeria is another form of colonialism,” he stated.

Disappointment as Russia Distances Itself

In a statement on Monday, the Russian Embassy in Nigeria issued a strong denial of any involvement with the group of protesters who were seen carrying the Russian flag and chanting slogans in support of President Vladimir Putin. 

The embassy stressed that Russia respects Nigeria’s sovereignty and does not interfere in its internal affairs, a statement that may not please the Russian flag-waving protesters. 

The statement described the protesters’ actions as personal choices that do not reflect any official Russian government policy.

However, one of these aggrieved youths said they would only stop pleading with the Russians once their voices were heard by the Russian President, Vladimir Putin.

Arrest of Tailor Sewing Russian Flags

However, the tailor who sewed the Russian flags for the protesters was reportedly arrested by security personnel on Monday. 

A picture seen by The Daily Reality showed the youth, whose name was not identified, being arrested with some of the flags he had sewn and his sewing machine.

Defense Chief Condemns Protesters’ Actions

Nigeria’s Chief of Defense, General Chris Musa, condemned the protesters’ actions as treasonable and warned they would face the full force of the law.

By Anas Abbas

The Kaduna State Security Council, led by Governor Uba Sani, has imposed a 24-hour curfew on Kaduna and Zaria metropolitan cities, effective immediately.

This decision comes after a review of the state’s security situation, which revealed that ongoing protests have been hijacked by criminal elements.

According to the council, these criminal elements have resorted to looting shops and destroying private and public property. To maintain safety and security, citizens are advised to remain indoors while security forces work to contain the situation.

The curfew will be continuously monitored, with the possibility of review as necessary. The Kaduna State Government has urged citizens to cooperate with security forces to restore peace and order in the affected areas.

This development follows a wave of protests that have turned violent, prompting concerns about public safety. The government’s swift response aims to prevent further escalation and protect citizens’ lives and property.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

President Bola Tinubu warmly congratulates Nigeria’s D’Tigress on qualifying for the quarterfinals of the women’s basketball at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

D’Tigress will be the first African team in basketball to play in the quarterfinals at the Olympics.

The President commends the team for its uncommon demonstration of resilience, teamwork, and diligence.

President Tinubu also commends the coach and managers of the team for their dutifulness and dedication.

The President enjoins the brave Tigress not to rest on their oars until the final victory is achieved.

President Tinubu assures the team and the entire Nigerian contingent at the 2024 Olympics of his support as they fly the nation’s flag at the global sporting event.

By Uzair Adam

President Bola Tinubu is set to address the nation on Sunday, August 4, 2024, at 7:00 am, amidst ongoing nationwide protests. The presidential spokesman, Chief Ajuri Ngelale, announced this in a statement on Saturday.

He stated that the address will be broadcast on television, radio, and other electronic media outlets through the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) and the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN).

The Daily Reality gathered that the broadcast will be repeated at 3:00 pm and 7:00 pm on the same day.

This announcement comes as protests continue to sweep across the country, with various groups calling for attention to their demands.

The president’s address is expected to address the current situation and provide guidance to the nation.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, addressed the nation in light of the planned nationwide protests, emphasizing the severe negative effects of violent demonstrations on our society. 

In his address, the IGP highlighted several critical points that underscore the importance of maintaining peace and order during protests.

“It is not only in Nigeria that there is hardship. It is a global meltdown. Is the government doing anything about it? Yes! This is what a responsive government will do,” stated the IGP. He stressed that while the current economic challenges are not unique to Nigeria, the government is actively working to mitigate their impact and provide relief to the citizens.

Reflecting on the 2020 EndSARS protest, the IGP remarked, “Where police stations were burnt down, criminals took over. Arms looted were in the wrong hands, and armed robbers took over. Women could no longer walk freely once it is 7 pm.” He warned that the destruction of police infrastructure leads to a breakdown in law and order, leaving communities vulnerable to criminal activities.

“There are enough lessons to learn from previous violent protests in Nigeria,” the IGP continued, urging citizens to remember the chaos and suffering that followed such events. “Serious dangers come with unchecked demonstrations,” he added, highlighting the potential for loss of life, property damage, and widespread fear among the populace.

The IGP acknowledged the right to protest, stating, “The right to protest is a right to peaceful protest.”He called on all Nigerians to exercise this right responsibly and to avoid actions that could escalate into violence. Peaceful protests, he emphasized, are a powerful tool for expressing grievances and driving change without endangering lives and properties.

In conclusion, the IGP reaffirmed the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to protecting the rights of citizens while maintaining law and order. He urged all Nigerians to cooperate with the Police to ensure that any forthcoming protests are peaceful and orderly.

By Uzair Adam

On Monday, the Federal Government announced the distribution of an additional 10 trucks filled with 50kg bags of rice to each state. These bags will be available for purchase at designated locations for N40,000 each.

During a council meeting, Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, informed State House correspondents that this initiative aims to alleviate poverty and address the high cost of living.

Idris stated, “The Federal Executive Council believes that most of the demands made by protesters are already being addressed by the government. Therefore, there is no need for further protests, as the government is actively working on these issues.”

“The President has listened to those planning protests and is already taking action on their behalf. For instance, the government is making efforts to ensure food availability.

“In the previous Council meeting, we announced the distribution of 20 trucks of rice to state governors for distribution to those in need, particularly the poorest in society.

Additionally, rice is being sold at about 50% of its usual cost, with each bag priced at N40,000.”

Idris explained that the rice has been transported to various centers across all states, where it can be purchased for N40,000 per bag. “Initially, 10 trucks have been provided to each state.

“This is just the beginning, and while we acknowledge that the supplies may not be sufficient, these are necessary first steps. More interventions will follow,” he concluded.

By Prof. Abdussamad Umar Jibia

It is no longer news that the Asiwaju Bola Ahmad Tinubu-led Federal Government has been inviting anyone it considers influential to help it prevail on Nigerian youth to stop the planned August 1-10 protests. The organisers of the protest, as I was told in most of the social media platforms I asked, are hunger, insecurity, and poverty, among the other things mentioned by the angry youth. 

Food sufficiency and security of lives and property are the necessary requirements for the prosperous living of any society. Every other thing follows. 

The fact about the people Tinubu has been inviting is that Nigerians consider them part of their problem. Traditional and religious rulers, politicians, etc., no longer command the respect they used to command in those days. A hungry man is angry with every other person, including a fellow hungry man. So, how can they listen to the pot-bellied traditional and religious leaders of these days? 

Certain other things have not been helpful to Tinubu. At this critical moment of his administration, he should not have allowed the controversy around Dangote Refinery to surface. Even before the removal of the oil subsidy, we were told that the Dangote refinery would provide a final solution to the problem of fuel supply, which has been part of our national life for a few decades. Just as production is set to begin properly, we are being told that Dangote refined fuel is not good after all and that the refinery has not been licenced. How do you expect Nigerians to be happy?

Since the altercation between Dangote and NNPC officials started, Nigerians have become aware of the Tinubu family’s underground oil business. I was just reading an essay in a social media group about how Oando, a Tinubu family-owned company, began to refine oil in Malta and export it to Nigeria through a series of underground moves. 

True or false, the story is now well known to every Nigerian who can afford a China-made Android phone. The onus is on the Tinubu administration to give its own side of this story. Until then, Nigerians will continue to believe that the Dangote Refinery initiative is being killed to advance the personal interests of the President. Would that not be enough to mobilise them to protest?

However, President Tinubu can avert the protests by taking certain bold steps, which would only take a patriotic leader to implement.

Tinubu, as a devout Muslim, can copy from Umar bn Abdulazeez, an Umayyad Caliph. Before Umar became the leader of the caliphate, he led a very lavish lifestyle like his wife, who was a princess of the caliphate. As soon as he assumed office, Ibn Abdulazeez put all his wealth and that of his family into the public treasury. He lived the rest of his life humbly and died honourably. Today, he is remembered as one of the best examples of leadership in human history. Is that too much for President Tinubu?

Mr President should remove every obstacle around the proper take-off of the Dangote refinery. It doesn’t matter whether or not Alhaji Aliko Dangote supported the APC candidate in the 2023 presidential election. Dangote is a Nigerian, and Nigerians stand to gain from his investment. The Federal Government should provide the refinery with Nigeria’s crude oil and make sure the price falls to the barest affordable minimum without short-changing the investor. Note that the present hardship confronting Nigerians began with the removal of subsidy and the rise of fuel pump price. 

President Tinubu should give licences to other Nigerians who want to set up refineries. As a matter of national policy, the importation of refined petroleum products must stop immediately.

The Tinubu Government should give a timeline it can stick to for the resumption of operations of its three refineries. Nigerians are aware that billions of Naira are spent every month on personnel and overhead costs for refineries that are not working. On the other hand, hardworking Nigerians are now being promised a paltry N70,000 as minimum wage.

Banditry and kidnapping must be ended to achieve food security and protect lives and property. To do so, President Tinubu should remove all bandits’ sympathisers from his government and give an ultimatum to his commanders to target and neutralise all bandits’ leaders, some of whom are now traditional rulers. Leaders of criminals are well known to the people and to the Government. It takes the will of the federal government to confront them.

Ending banditry and kidnapping would also effectively close down all IDP camps and return all campers to the farm. 

That is not all. The Federal Government should return the cost of electricity as they met it. This should be announced and effected immediately. It is noteworthy that Gencos and Discos were sold to public facilities at giveaway prices. Thus, they do not have the moral right to charge Nigerians prohibitively for their services, which, by the way, are not satisfactorily delivered.

The National Assembly can also play its own part by suspending its recess and taking a decision to end the regime of billions of Naira getting into the bank accounts of its members in the name of constituency projects and all manner of allowances. They should earn a salary equivalent to that of a senior civil servant in a Federal Ministry. 

To show their seriousness, all senators and rep members should immediately return SUVs bought for them with public funds. State commissioners are more numerous and use similar official vehicles even though they are not elected. This has been the argument of National Assembly members since 1999, but it is not valid. State commissioners have ministries under them, and you, as National leaders, are supposed to set an example for others to follow.

If this Government can do the above, and immediately too, it would have the moral authority to confront anyone who goes to the street to call for an end to bad governance. 

The constitutional conferences, restructuring, resource control, INEC, EFCC, etc., are all political and do not directly affect the common man on the street.

Professor Abdussamad Umar Jibia wrote via aujibia@gmail.com.

By Uzair Adam Imam 

Amidst growing concerns over economic hardship, Minister of Youth Development Ayodele Olawande has reaffirmed President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to addressing the nation’s challenges. 

Speaking at a press conference in Abuja, Olawande acknowledged the difficulties faced by Nigerians while expressing confidence in the President’s ability to implement effective solutions.

The Minister highlighted several key achievements, including a 130% increase in the minimum wage and the passage of legislation reducing the review period for minimum wage from five to three years. 

He urged citizens to adopt a pragmatic approach and capitalize on government initiatives, cautioning against the misuse of social media to destabilize the nation.

Olawande appealed to Nigerians to collaborate with the government in addressing the country’s challenges, emphasizing President Tinubu’s dedication to the nation’s well-being. 

He stressed the importance of unity and collective effort in overcoming adversity and building a prosperous Nigeria.

The Renewed Hope Ambassadors, a group supportive of the government, launched an initiative titled “The Jagaban Will Fix It Nigeria” project.

This project aims to engage citizens through town hall meetings and capacity-building programs, promoting constructive dialogue and solutions. 

The group warned against the potential risks of protests and encouraged citizens to explore alternative avenues for driving positive change.