News

By Ibrahim El-Caleel

This press release shows that Dangote Refinery is also enjoying the whole petroleum industry ruse and elongating it. NNPC said they bought your petrol at N898. Instead of this press statement to deny it, you simply tell the public the actual price you sold it to them.

For example, “We didn’t sell petrol at N898 to NNPC. We sold it to them at N619”. Is this too difficult to do or unethical?

When you do this, then let the NNPC come and deny it; then you take the next step by publicly sharing a sample of the invoice where they bought it at N619 from Dangote Refinery. This is what transparency means.

But how do you expect people to believe this? Why should people trust Dangote Refinery and not NNPC? Both DR and NNPC are only making statements; they go explain taya, no evidence. Where is the invoice?

The petroleum industry in Nigeria lacks transparency. Nobody wants to let Nigerians understand what is going on so that they can start asking the right questions. They are leaving everyone in the dark so that immediately you say anything, they will mock you that you don’t understand anything; you are a layman who doesn’t understand anything about the oil business! Yet, you are the same layman buying the petrol which fuels the industry.

What Dangote Refinery is doing at the moment is just a glorified, or let me say corporate “DM for price”. It’s the same “DM for price” that BUA Cement did one time saying it has reduced the price of cement without giving any details on how much was the initial price before they “reduced” it.

Hello DR, NNPC,

Price is not a trade secret, geniuses! If you are hiding the price of your product, then there is something shady you are doing. How can you be doing a “DM for price” strategy for a global commodity like petrol? It takes me just a click to know the price of a barrel of crude oil in the global market, same thing for an ounce of gold. What is so special about the price of the Nigerian refined petrol that you need to keep it a secret?

Anyway, lemme mind my business. You know over the last few weeks I decided to give up on my self-assigned goal of understanding the petroleum industry. I only drive into a filling station and buy petrol according to what I can afford at the time. How the petrol got there ain’t really any of my business any longer. I don’t care. When we all become tired of the nonsense going on in Nigeria one day, I am sure we will come and agree on the way forward. I am very sure this nonsense cannot continue to happen forever. It will end one day.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The House of Representatives Committee on Navy has vowed to investigate the unlawful detention of Seaman Abbas Haruna for nearly six years, allegedly on the instruction of one Brigadier General MS Adamu, with a pledge to ensure that all those involved in the saga face the full consequences of their actions.

The ordeal of Seaman Abbas, as narrated by his wife, Mrs. Hussaina Iliyasu, on “Berekete,” a Human Rights Television program, began in 2018 when he was drafted for joint operations in Sarti Baruwa, Taraba State, where he was to serve under the command of Brigadier M.S. Adamu.

However, a misunderstanding ensued between the duo, leading to his detention under inhumane conditions for several years without a proper trial as enshrined in the Armed Forces Act 2004 Law of the Federation of Nigeria.

The inhuman treatment meted out to the naval personnel over a minor misunderstanding with his superior army officer had made many in the studio shed tears while his wife narrated her husband’s ordeal.

The degree of heartlessness exhibited by Brigadier General M. S. Adamu toward his subordinate over a minor incident has drawn wide condemnation from millions of conscientious Nigerians who heard the story.

The pathetic story of Seaman Abbas Haruna, highlighted on ‘Berekete’, has prompted the House of Representatives Committee on Navy to investigate the matter with the aim of uncovering the truth and upholding the integrity of our military and the rights of every individual under the prevailing laws of the land.

Additionally, there is a need to also fish out all officers involved and follow up with the military hierarchy to ensure that everyone who has a hand in the gross violation of Seaman Abbas’s rights is decisively brought to book.

By Nasidi Ibrahim Saal

The Nigerian Institution of Mechanical Engineers (NIMechE) Kano chapter conducted its Annual General Meeting and elected new executives, as enshrined by its laws. 

The chairman is expected to have two years in office, while the other exco members have one year, with the exclusion of Office 1 as a permanent seat constitutionally reserved for the outgoing chairman.

The chairman of the Election, Engr Balarabe Inuwa Abdullahi, while addressing the media at the venue (Ministry of Works Kano state), stated that the election was conducted successfully.

The newly elected offices are chairman, vice chairman, secretary, assistant secretary, and financial secretary are:

Engr. Usman Hamza Ibrahim

Engr. Asma’u Ja’afar Baba

Engr. Mudashir Sunmonu

Engr. Auwal Rabiu

Engr. Ramadan Nura Abdullahi,

Engr Muhammad Mukhtar Sakurai and Engr Dr Umma Abdullahi occupied the treasurer and technical secretary positions, respectively.

The outgoing chairman, Engr Lawan Usman Isah, thanks the electoral committee and the outgoing exco for their diligent work discharging their duties.

The occasion was graced with the esteemed presence of dignitaries, including the Representative of the National Chairman of NIMechE, Engr George,Engr Prof.A A Adamu, and Engr Dr.Aminu Sabo.

By Sabiu Abdullahi  

The Apapa Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service has achieved a historic milestone, recording an all-time high revenue collection of N1.5 trillion from January to September 2024.  

Comptroller Babatunde Olomu, in charge of the command, made the announcement during a parade on Wednesday, September 11, 2024, attributing the success to “meticulous documentation and professional discipline” by officers and men.  

Olomu praised the officers for their “resilience, commitment, and professionalism” and charged them to strive for more. “We must surpass this achievement.

We cannot afford to relax.”  He assured that the service will continue to reward diligence, commitment, and dedication to duty by officers.  Comptroller Olomu attributed the command’s outstanding performance to the motivation and rewards system introduced for officers who performed creditably.

“The excellent revenue generation is a result of blockage of all revenue generating leakage and proper documentation of payments by officers who were adequately motivated.”  

He encouraged officers to strive for excellence in carrying out their statutory duties.  

Olomu expressed appreciation to the Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, and his management team for leading by example.

By Uzair Adam

The Kano State Government has extended a N100 million donation to assist victims of the recent floods in Borno State.

The cheque was presented by Kano State’s Commissioner for Information, Baba Halilu Dantiye, and the Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Eradication, Hajiya Amina Sani, on behalf of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf.

The presentation took place at the Borno Government House in Maiduguri and was received by Governor Babagana Zulum.

Expressing solidarity with the people of Borno, Governor Yusuf described the flood disaster as “catastrophic” and called for collective support to mitigate the impact on those affected.

He also prayed for the souls of the deceased and wished a swift recovery for the injured.Governor Yusuf emphasized the strong, historic ties between Kano and Borno states, reaffirming Kano’s support during this challenging time.

In response, Governor Zulum expressed deep appreciation for Kano State’s generosity and pledged that the funds would be utilized effectively to aid the victims.

He commended the show of unity between Nigerian states in times of crisis.

The donation reflects a shared commitment to assist communities facing humanitarian emergencies.

By Anas Abbas

The Nigeria Police Force has assured citizens of enhanced security measures during the 2024 Eid-el-Maulud celebrations, marking the birth of Prophet Muhammad (SAW).

According to Olumuyiwa Adejobi, Force Public Relations Officer, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has directed Command Commissioners and Zonal Assistant Inspectors-General to deploy personnel and resources to high-risk areas, including major highways, places of worship, and public gathering points.

The police force has reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the public and preventing crime during and after the festive period. IGP Egbetokun extended warm felicitations to Muslim faithful, praying for a joyous and harmonious celebration.

The police are working in collaboration with other security agencies, community leaders, and stakeholders to ensure a secure and incident-free celebration across the country.

The Eid-el-Maulud celebration is a significant event in the Islamic calendar, and the police’s security measures aim to provide a safe environment for all Nigerians to observe the holiday.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini  

Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, has called on the Muslim Ummah to draw inspiration and lessons from the virtues of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) as they celebrate this year’s Eid-el-Maulud today.  

The Governor, who is also the Chairman of the Northern States Governors’ Forum, encouraged Muslims to imbibe the Prophet’s qualities of tolerance, humility, modesty, and honesty in their daily lives. 

He stated the importance of reflecting on the teachings of the Prophet and integrating his legacy of unity, integrity, peaceful coexistence, and love for one’s neighbor into the fabric of society.  

He stated, “As we commemorate this great and epochal day, I enjoin us to continue to demonstrate in our lives what the noble messenger of Allah bequeathed to humanity in ethos, manners, and relationships for the good of the society.” 

He highlighted the need for Nigerians to uphold these teachings as a foundation for national unity and development, saying “the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) are indispensable in the quest for meaningful development and the good management of Nigeria’s diversity.” 

The NSGF Chairman urged that the celebration of the Prophet’s birth should serve as a moment for spiritual rejuvenation and as a reminder for Nigerians to come together in prayer for unity, stability, and progress, particularly during these challenging times.  

He noted that collective faith in God and sustained prayers for peace across the nation would help achieve the aspirations of Nigeria’s founding fathers. 

The Governor also called on citizens to continue being law-abiding and to protect the peace and tranquility that Gombe State currently enjoys, urging them to shun any actions that could threaten the state’s harmonious environment.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar

Department of State Services (DSS) operatives have arrested Omoyele Sowore, convener of the #RevolutionNow protest.

According to SaharaReporters, Sowore was arrested on Sunday at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos upon his arrival in Nigeria.

Sowore’s arrest may be connected to the 10-day #EndBadGovernance protest held across the country in August.

The Take-It-Back Movement and several other civil society organisations spearheaded the protest.

Sowore is also the convener of the movement.

Another protest is being planned by organisers of the #EndBadGovernance protest — scheduled for October 1.

In a post via his X page, Sowore said he was detained by the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) and his passport was seized.

“I had just arrived in Nigeria from the USA to the MMIA in Lagos; upon reaching Nigerian Immigration, my passport was seized, and they told me they had orders to detain me,” he wrote.

“This is not unexpected because I have always known that It is part of the broader clampdown by the fascist Bola Ahmed Tinubu regime on dissent and their fear of the upcoming #FearlessINOctober revolt.

“In case this becomes another prolonged and protracted detention, I urge our citizens to ensure they ALL stop tyranny by all means acceptable and necessary by engaging in the planned series of direct actions slated for October 1st and beyond.”

By Uzair Adam 

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Ltd. has deployed over 100 trucks to the Dangote Refinery in preparation for petrol loading, scheduled to begin on Sunday, September 15, 2024. 

According to a post by NNPC on its official X handle, the trucks were dispatched to the refinery’s fuel loading gantry in Ibeju-Lekki on Saturday, with more expected to arrive. 

“As of Saturday afternoon, more than 100 trucks had been mobilised, and by the end of the day, up to 300 trucks are expected to be stationed at the gantry,” the company said.

The deployment marks a significant step toward ensuring timely petrol distribution from the Dangote Refinery, which is expected to enhance fuel availability nationwide.

By Uzair Adam President Bola Tinubu has praised the military for their successful operations against security threats in the North-West, reaffirming the nation’s confidence in the security forces’ ability to maintain peace.

According to Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, the President’s commendation followed the recent neutralization of notorious bandit leader Halilu Sububu by troops of Operation Hadarin Daji.

Sububu had long terrorized communities in Zamfara, Sokoto, and other regions in the North-West.

In addition, security forces eliminated another high-profile terrorist, Sani Wala Burki, in a joint operation in Katsina, while dismantling a terrorist enclave in Kaduna, where 13 kidnapped students were rescued.

President Tinubu credited the military high command, intelligence agencies, and troops for their coordination, courage, and perseverance, leading to these significant breakthroughs.

He urged them to remain committed until all threats, both immediate and potential, are eradicated.“The President reassures security agencies of his continued support in achieving the goal of safeguarding the nation,” Onanuga stated.