News

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.

By Uzair Adam

The Nigerian Armed Forces have announced the passing of Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, the Chief of Army Staff.

He died at the age of 56 on Tuesday night in Lagos following an illness, as confirmed in a statement from the Presidency signed by Bayo Onanuga.

Lt. General Lagbaja, born on February 28, 1968, began his distinguished career in 1987 at the Nigerian Defence Academy.

He was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Nigerian Infantry Corps on September 19, 1992, as part of the 39th Regular Course.

Throughout his service, he held various leadership positions, including platoon commander in both the 93 Battalion and the 72 Special Forces Battalion.

He contributed to several key security operations, such as Operation ZAKI in Benue, Lafiya Dole in Borno, Udoka in the Southeast, and Operation Forest Sanity in Kaduna and Niger States.

An alumnus of the U.S. Army War College, Lt. General Lagbaja held a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies, showcasing his dedication to professional development.

He is survived by his wife, Mariya, and their two children.

President Bola Tinubu expressed his condolences to Lt. General Lagbaja’s family and the Nigerian Armed Forces, honoring his contributions to the nation.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State says President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is determined to wipe out poverty in Nigeria.

Sani made this known at a town hall meeting and sensitization event on Tuesday in Kaduna for the N200 billion Presidential Intervention Fund and Loans Scheme for SSMEs, which the Federal Government organised in collaboration with the Bank of Industry.

He was represented by his Special Adviser on Economic Matters, Mr Ibrahim Muhammad.

He said the fund, which includes the Presidential Conditional Grant Scheme and loan options for MSMEs, is designed to boost Nigeria’s economy by empowering local entrepreneurs.

“This massive presidential initiative is proof that President Tinubu is a listening leader.

“Through these stimulus packages, small businesses and manufacturing enterprises will be revitalized, significantly benefiting both sub-national economies and Nigeria as a whole.”

He also emphasised the importance of MSMEs in driving job creation, innovation, and economic resilience, noting that Kaduna’s government is committed to fostering a supportive business environment.

The governor praised the timing of the fund, calling it a valuable support for Kaduna State’s ongoing efforts to boost the local economy, create jobs, and encourage entrepreneurial growth.

He urged all stakeholders to spread awareness of the initiative to maximize its impact.

Speaking at the event, Mrs Caroline Bala, one of the grant beneficiaries, expressed gratitude for the financial assistance that enabled her to start a soya milk business after she lost her previous job.

Bala said her business has been thriving, with daily earnings between 10,000 to 15,000 Naira.

She urged the organisers to sustain the initiative and ensure that deserving citizens continue to benefit from the grant, which she described as a life-changing opportunity.

Another beneficiary, Mr Albert Ibrahim, said he utilised the grant to purchase herbicides for his farm, resulting in a bumper harvest.

He expressed hope that others would also have the chance to benefit from this scheme.

Similarly, Summayya Ibrahim thanked the government for the support, adding that she looked forward to more assistance to enable broader outreach to aspiring entrepreneurs.

Muktar Aliyu, a cartoonist, said he used his grant to purchase specialised software to enhance his creative work.

He also appreciated the scheme, noting that it has greatly impacted his career.

Additionally, Mrs. Joy Oghiadomhe of the Bank of Industry outlined the eligibility criteria for both the grant and loan schemes, emphasizing the administration’s intent to tackle economic challenges through MSMEs as a key sector for development.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Nigerian national grid has suffered another collapse, leaving the country in darkness.

This latest incident marks the ninth grid failure in 2024, with three occurring within one week in October.As of 2:35 pm on Tuesday, hourly generation readings showed that none of the Power Generation Companies had a single megawatt.

The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) had previously blamed the development on a fire outbreak at the Jebba transmission station.

TCN General Manager, Public Affairs, Ndidi Mbah, noted that between 2020 and 2024, the nation recorded 14 total and six partial grid disturbances, totaling 20.

Adebayo Adelabu, Minister of Power, attributed the frequent collapse of the national grid to outdated infrastructure.

The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has expressed concern over the escalating incidence of grid disturbances, which often lead to marked outages in several states, reversing gains made in reducing infrastructure deficit and improving grid stability.