News

By Uzair Adam

The Yobe State Police Command has dismissed a report published by an online media outlet alleging that two of its officers were involved in a recent robbery in Potiskum.

According to a statement from DSP Dungus Abdulkarim, the police spokesperson, the Command also denied accusations of obstructing court proceedings or protecting the accused officers.

The report, titled “Police disrupt court proceeding, take out colleagues accused of robbery in Yobe,” was described by Abdulkarim as “misleading and malicious.”

He clarified that no police personnel invaded a magistrate’s court to secure the release of any accused.

“There is no record of any robbery incident involving police personnel in Potiskum or elsewhere in the state,” Abdulkarim emphasized.

Setting the record straight, Abdulkarim stated that on February 23, a collision occurred between a truck and a motorcycle in Potiskum.

ASC Abubakar Umar from the Nigerian Correctional Service sought bail for the driver, which was granted, but the police retained the vehicle due to an ongoing investigation and the victim’s treatment. When Umar intervened, he was detained for obstruction.

The Area Commander subsequently ordered police personnel to return to their station, as the case involved a Fundamental Human Rights issue beyond the magistrate’s jurisdiction.

The Yobe Police Command has demanded that the media outlet retract the report and issue an apology or face legal action.

Meanwhile, the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Yobe Chapter has called on the Commissioner of Police to investigate the case and ensure adherence to court orders.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang has officially flagged off the campaign for a School Feeding Program by HELLO INTERNATIONAL with the support of the office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on school feeding, for the pupils of LEA Ngwak, in Bokkos LGA and LEA Kwaghas Bungha in Mangu LGA.

The event which was held at Lamond Hotel Banquet Hall Jos, aimed at improving nutrition among school children, boosting school enrollment, and enhancing learning outcomes.

Barr. Mutfwang who spoke through the Chief of Staff, Government House, Jeremiah Satmak reiterated his administration’s commitment to prioritizing the education sector in the State, stating that addressing childhood hunger was a means to promoting education and securing the children’s future.

He acknowledged the efforts being made so far and challenged all to support the initiative for sustainability.

Plateau State Commissioner of Budget and Economic Planning, Hon. Chrysantus Dawam in his remarks, said the initiative was not just about providing meals, but rather nurturing the future, empowering education and ensuring that no child goes hungry as they pursue their dreams.

He said HELLO INTERNATIONAL, a Non Governmental Organization had also generously donated shade of three classrooms and new set of desks for LEA Ngwak, and essential items for both schools such as school uniforms, sandals, bags and writing materials to ensure that the pupils had the resources they need to succeed.

He commended their vision and noted the significance of education, being a key to a brighter future, adding that a child needed to focus on learning and not to be worried about where their next meal was coming from.

Founder and CEO of HELLO International, Dr. Nkiruka Agbazue said they had a shared commitment to a brighter future for the children of Plateau State, in fostering hope, equality and opportunity for all.

She stated the organization’s dedication to providing essential resources, creating programs that uplift communities, and empowering individuals to build sustainable futures, and that it also aimed at creating an environment where every child would not worry about hunger, poverty, and lack of basic resources.

While appreciating the commitment of all in this cause, Nkiruka assured of the Organization’s willingness to continue to work hand in hand with the Senior Special Assistant to the President and the Plateau State Government to expand and improve the initiative, and enlisted the support of all in order to ensure that every child, regardless of background, has the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive.

Also speaking was the Senior Special Assistant to the President on School Feeding, Dr. Yetunde Adeniji, represented by Mrs. Kyenpia Best who commended HELLO INTERNATIONAL and the Plateau State Government for the step taken toward ensuring that no child in Plateau State faces the burden of hunger while striving for an education.

She added that the combined effort was an inspiring example, showing what is possible when the people come together for the future of their children, and expressed hoped that this initiative would not only continue but would expand to touch more areas of Plateau State and indeed, across the nation.

On his part, the Chairman, Plateau State Universal Basic Education Board Hon. Sunday S. Amuna, represented by the SUBEB Permanent Member II, Hon. Kassam Goodwin Dul also commended the intervention and assured that as an agency overseeing the Universal Basic Education sector, it would remain committed to supporting the vision by prioritizing the well being and the education of Plateau pupils.

Earlier in her welcome remarks, the Plateau State School Feeding Program Manager, Mrs Tongdyen Tajan Moltok said the program was initiated to address the issue of malnutrition, particularly among vulnerable children.

And as a step toward improving the lives of the children, she added that it would also strengthen the communities to build a brighter future for their children and urged all to work tirelessly to ensure the success of the program.

By Uzair Adam

Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has dismissed rumors of tension with his political mentor, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, asserting his unwavering loyalty and respect for the leader of the Kwankwasiyya movement.

Speaking to journalists in Kano, Yusuf addressed speculations suggesting that Kwankwaso exerts excessive influence over his administration. The governor noted that their 40-year relationship remains strong, refuting claims of a rift or of being controlled by Kwankwaso.

Rumors within the Kwankwasiyya movement and the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) allege that Kwankwaso has considerable sway in the state’s leadership, with some suggesting he effectively runs a “third term by proxy.”

Aliyu Sani Madakin-Gini, a House of Representatives member for Dala Federal Constituency who recently distanced himself from Kwankwaso, attributed the tension to disagreements over a drug contract and a state-funded scholarship program.

Yusuf, however, brushed aside these allegations, highlighting his independence and underscoring his loyalty to Kwankwaso.

“In my 40 years of knowing him, we have never had a rift,” Yusuf affirmed, adding, “The idea that I am somehow chained by Kwankwaso is simply unfair.”A faction within the NNPP known as “Abba Tsaya da Kafarka” (meaning “Abba, stand on your own”) has been urging Yusuf to make decisions autonomously from Kwankwaso’s influence.

The movement has gained traction, with party members and political figures calling for Yusuf’s independence.In response, Yusuf labeled the calls for autonomy as disrespectful to his loyalty.

“This ‘stand on your own’ slogan is the greatest insult I have faced as governor. It suggests that I should repay good with bad,” he remarked, reaffirming his gratitude for Kwankwaso’s long-standing support.

The NNPP’s state leadership recently suspended Secretary to the State Government Abdullahi Baffa Bichi and Commissioner of Transportation Muhammad Diggol, accusing them of disloyalty and alleged involvement in the independence movement.

Both officials denied the allegations and are currently under investigation.

Two House of Representatives members, Aliyu Sani Madakin-Gini and Alhassan Rurum, have also publicly exited the Kwankwasiyya movement, urging Yusuf to assert his independence.

Addressing these defections, Yusuf reiterated the significant role Kwankwaso has played in his career and denounced those who seek to undermine their relationship.Yusuf also voiced frustration with the media’s portrayal of the situation, describing reports of Kwankwaso frequently contacting him as unfounded.

“They said Kwankwaso called me over 30 times, and I didn’t answer. Where did they get this from?” Yusuf questioned. “If not for my respect for journalists, I would have taken the person who wrote that to court,” he added.

The governor concluded by appealing to supporters to avoid divisive slogans, and reiterated his commitment to respecting elders and rejecting any rhetoric that encourages division.

By Uzair Adam

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has expressed strong support for the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) in its decision to initiate a nationwide strike.

The strike threat follows allegations that military personnel were deployed to remove workers from the Oritsetimeyin oil rig, a move that has drawn widespread criticism.

In a statement issued on Friday, NLC President Joe Ajaero condemned the alleged military intervention, affirming the congress’s solidarity with NUPENG.

Ajaero warned of escalated actions from NLC if breaches of agreements and the use of security forces in industrial disputes persist.

This stance arises from a protracted dispute between NUPENG and the oil rig’s management, where agreements on employment terms reportedly remain unfulfilled.

Earlier in the week, NUPENG alerted the Federal Government, cautioning against military involvement and urging respect for previously established agreements.

On Thursday, however, a special naval unit allegedly arrived at the Oritsetimeyin rig to forcibly evict workers, prompting NUPENG’s strike warning.

Ajaero decried this development as an affront to worker rights, urging military and government officials to address the issue immediately.

“This unacceptable use of state security forces to intimidate workers undermines democratic values and workplace freedoms,” Ajaero’s statement read.

“The militarization of workplaces only harms our economy and violates the principles of industrial relations.”

NUPENG maintains that the eviction followed workers’ calls for adherence to agreements, including severance benefits discussed during prior meetings mediated by the Nigeria Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) and the Department of State Services (DSS).

The NLC’s statement specifically called out companies Dutchford E&P and Selective Marine Services for failing to honor these commitments.

The NLC is urging the Nigerian military, the National Security Adviser, and other key government figures to intervene and prevent further confrontations.

By Uzair Adam

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has expressed strong support for the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) in its decision to initiate a nationwide strike.

The strike threat follows allegations that military personnel were deployed to remove workers from the Oritsetimeyin oil rig, a move that has drawn widespread criticism.

In a statement issued on Friday, NLC President Joe Ajaero condemned the alleged military intervention, affirming the congress’s solidarity with NUPENG.

Ajaero warned of escalated actions from NLC if breaches of agreements and the use of security forces in industrial disputes persist.

This stance arises from a protracted dispute between NUPENG and the oil rig’s management, where agreements on employment terms reportedly remain unfulfilled.

Earlier in the week, NUPENG alerted the Federal Government, cautioning against military involvement and urging respect for previously established agreements.

On Thursday, however, a special naval unit allegedly arrived at the Oritsetimeyin rig to forcibly evict workers, prompting NUPENG’s strike warning.

Ajaero decried this development as an affront to worker rights, urging military and government officials to address the issue immediately.

“This unacceptable use of state security forces to intimidate workers undermines democratic values and workplace freedoms,” Ajaero’s statement read.

“The militarization of workplaces only harms our economy and violates the principles of industrial relations.”

NUPENG maintains that the eviction followed workers’ calls for adherence to agreements, including severance benefits discussed during prior meetings mediated by the Nigeria Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) and the Department of State Services (DSS).

The NLC’s statement specifically called out companies Dutchford E&P and Selective Marine Services for failing to honor these commitments.

The NLC is urging the Nigerian military, the National Security Adviser, and other key government figures to intervene and prevent further confrontations, emphasizing that industrial issues should not involve the military.

By Uzair Adam

Electricity Distribution Companies (DisCos) have announced another increase in the cost of various electricity meters, marking the second price adjustment in four months.

The new rates, which became effective on November 5, reveal a 28.03% rise in prices.

The Daily Reality learned that the cost of a single-phase meter has jumped from N117,000 to N149,800, depending on the specific distribution company and meter vendor.

The revised prices, disclosed on the DisCos’ official X (formerly Twitter) accounts, reflect the effects of a recent deregulation initiative by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC).

This deregulation, aimed at enhancing competition among meter providers, allows Meter Asset Providers (MAPs) to offer services across all electricity distribution companies, hoping to streamline prices and improve access.

An analysis of DisCos’ updated pricing shows a range based on different vendors and meter models.

Several reports indicate that Eko DisCo now charges between N135,987.50 and N161,035 for single-phase meters, while Abuja DisCo’s prices range from N123,130.53 to N147,812.50.

Kano DisCo customers are set to pay between N127,925 and N129,999 for similar meters. Additionally, three-phase meters show equally significant price hikes across the various DisCos.

This increase has raised concerns about affordability among electricity consumers, especially since a prior adjustment was made in August 2024.

NERC’s recent policy change, which now allows prices under the MAP scheme to be set through competitive bidding rather than central control, is expected to encourage competition and improve service quality.

However, customers have voiced worries about the mounting costs.Before the recent deregulation, meter prices were regulated and often subsidized across DisCos to keep costs manageable for consumers.

With the new policy, NERC aims for a more competitive landscape, where customers and DisCos may negotiate favorable deals with meter providers, improving both transparency and efficiency within the sector.

By Uzair Adam

Three prominent oil marketing firms in Nigeria have filed a motion at the Federal High Court in Abuja to prevent Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals FZE from establishing a monopoly within the country’s energy sector.

The companies—AYM Shafa Limited, A.A. Rano Limited, and Matrix Petroleum Services Limited—argued that giving Dangote control over the oil industry could be detrimental to Nigeria’s economy.

Efforts to reach the Group Head of Communications at Dangote Group, Mr. Anthony Chiejina, for comment were unsuccessful, as calls and messages went unanswered.

The oil marketers filed their response after Dangote’s firm challenged the validity of licenses that the marketers had obtained to import refined petroleum products.

Dangote Refinery had initially brought a suit, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/1324/2024, against the Nigeria Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPC), and several oil marketing companies, arguing that it was unnecessary to issue import licenses for refined products, given Dangote’s local production capacity.

The plaintiff claims that NMDPRA violated Sections 317(8) and (9) of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) by allowing other companies to import refined products like Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) and Jet-A1 fuel.

Dangote’s suit seeks N100 billion in damages from NMDPRA, asserting that the authority’s actions undermine local production capacity.

Additionally, Dangote requested an injunction to prevent further issuance or renewal of import licenses to these companies.

In their defense, the oil marketers countered that Dangote’s refinery does not produce enough petroleum products to meet Nigeria’s daily demand.

They argued that a monopoly would stifle competition, leading to rising product prices and an increased burden on consumers.

The companies also noted the risks involved if Dangote’s production chain encounters disruptions, potentially plunging Nigeria into an energy crisis.

The defendants highlighted that their import licenses were lawfully issued in compliance with the PIA, the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act, and other relevant legislation.

Justice Inyang Ekwo, overseeing the case, has adjourned proceedings to January 20, 2025, for potential out-of-court resolution.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces, has ordered rescheduling of the Federal Executive Council meeting till another date to be announced.

Initially scheduled for today, the council meeting was postponed in honour of Lt. General Taoreed Lagbaja, the Chief of Army Staff, who passed away on Tuesday night.

General Lagbaja served as the Chief of Army Staff from June 19, 2023, till his death on November 5, 2024.

President Tinubu also ordered flags to be flown at half-staff nationwide for seven days in honour of the departed general.

Earlier today, President Tinubu expressed his heartfelt condolences to the Lagbaja family and the Nigerian Armed Forces.

He wished Lt. General Lagbaja eternal peace and honoured his significant contributions to the nation.

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

Comptroller Abba-Aji Idris of the Katsina Area Command has been praised by the National Drugs Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) for his proactive efforts in combating smuggling and drug trafficking.

This recognition comes after the NDLEA Commander for Katsina, Abubakar Aminu, visited Comptroller Idris at the Customs House in Katsina on October 30, 2024. 

“The purpose of this visit is to assist the Comptroller in any way possible,” Commander Abubakar stated, highlighting the NDLEA’s alignment with the Customs Command’s objectives to protect the state from illegal cross-border activities. Comptroller Idris expressed gratitude for the NDLEA’s support, describing the visit as a timely reinforcement of Katsina Command’s mission.

He outlined several strategies implemented since taking office, underscoring the Command’s ongoing dedication to safeguarding Katsina State’s borders. Similarly, the Katsina State Chapter of the NBA, led by Chairman Barrister Shafiu Umar, acknowledged Comptroller Idris’ contributions to public security.

During their visit, Barrister Umar applauded the Comptroller’s active engagement with the community and public enlightenment campaigns, noting the NBA’s commitment to supporting legal cooperation and awareness efforts aligned with the Command’s anti-smuggling objectives. 

Comptroller Idris thanked the NBA delegation for their support and pledged to collaborate closely with the association to enhance the command’s operational goals.

He stated the importance of community partnerships in achieving lasting success against border-related crimes. 

This recognition is not isolated, as other Customs Area Controllers have also received awards from the NDLEA for their anti-smuggling efforts.

Recently, Comptroller Babatunde Olomu participated in the “Walk Against Drugs” to commemorate the 2024 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Drug Trafficking.

By Uzair Adam

A Kano State High Court has issued an interim order to prevent federal agencies from interfering with the monthly statutory allocations meant for Kano State’s 44 local government councils.

The ruling came after members of the National Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) and other concerned residents filed a Motion Ex-Parte on November 1, 2024.

The applicants, including Ibrahim Uba Shehu, Ibrahim Shehu Abubakar, Usman Isa, Sarki Alhaji Kurawa, and Malam Usman Imam, expressed concerns over potential delays or withholding of essential funds for local governance.

In the order dated November 4, Justice Ibrahim Musa Muhammad granted permission for the applicants to serve court documents to the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), the Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), and eight commercial banks.

The case, filed by Bashir Yusif Muhammad Esq and Umar Bala Salisu Esq, highlights the impact that withholding these allocations could have on local government operations.

Justice Muhammad stated that federal agencies, their representatives, or agents must refrain from actions that could hinder disbursement of the funds.

The court appointed Red Star Express Plc as a special bailiff to ensure service of the documents to respondents, who are outside the court’s jurisdiction in Kano State.

The interim injunction explicitly prohibits any measures to delay, withhold, or interfere with the funds until the court addresses the motion on notice.

The matter has been adjourned to November 21, 2024, when the court will further hear the motion.