The House of Representatives has initiated steps to establish the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Federal University of Nigerian Languages, following the successful passage of a bill for its first reading on Thursday. The bill is sponsored by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu and eight other members, with the goal of promoting the study of Nigerian languages.

Key provisions of the bill include:

• Promotion of Learning: The university will aim to encourage the advancement of learning, providing opportunities for higher education in Nigerian languages and cultures to all individuals, regardless of race, creed, sex, or political beliefs.
• Presidential Oversight: Section 14 (2) mandates the President to conduct a visitation of the university at least once every five years, ensuring oversight of the institution’s operations.
• Collaboration and Support: The university bodies are required to assist the President or any appointed visitors in conducting these visitations.
• Authority to Remove Council Members: The President will have the power to remove council members from office, excluding the pro-chancellor and vice-chancellor.
• Academic Development: The university will focus on developing and offering academic and professional programs, including diplomas and higher degrees, emphasizing skills in planning, development, and productive abilities in Nigerian languages.
• National Development: The institution aims to produce socially mature individuals capable of effectively communicating in Nigerian languages, thereby contributing to national development.
• Resource Utilization: Once established, the university will act as a catalyst for the effective and economic utilization of Nigeria’s natural, economic, and human resources through research, innovation, and postgraduate training.

This legislative move reflects a commitment to enhancing the appreciation and study of Nigeria’s rich linguistic heritage while contributing to the country’s overall development.

Former President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed his heartfelt condolences to Engineer Mele Kyari, the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), following the tragic passing of his daughter, Fatima Kyari, who was just 25 years old.

In a poignant message, Buhari stated, “I am shocked and deeply pained to learn about the passing away of your daughter, Fatima. It is very painful to accept that she has left the world at such a tender age, but Allah, who gave her to you, knows best. My deepest and most heartfelt condolences are with your family in this hour of intense grief.”

Buhari’s message reflects the profound sadness felt by many in response to this loss, highlighting the importance of supporting one another during times of bereavement.

The Enugu State Government has clarified that the recently implemented Mortuary Tax is not intended to generate revenue but rather to discourage the practice of keeping deceased individuals in mortuaries for extended periods.

Tax Implementation Explained

The Executive Chairman of the Enugu State Internal Revenue Service (ESIRS), Mr. Emmanuel Nnamani, made this clarification in response to concerns regarding a circular that addressed mortuary attendants in the state, which has gained attention on social media.

According to the circular, the ESIRS has approved the implementation of the Mortuary Tax under the provisions of Section 34 of the Birth, Deaths, and Burials Law Cap 15 Revised Laws of Enugu State 2004. It stipulates that a fee of N40 is to be paid by the owners of a corpse if it is not buried within twenty-four hours. This amount will continue to accumulate daily until the burial takes place.

Payment Procedures

The circular instructs that the tax must be paid before the corpses are collected for burial, with payments to be remitted to the ESIRS in any commercial bank under the Mortuary Tax Enugu State IGR Account.

Clarification on the Tax

In his response to the public outcry, Nnamani emphasized that the Mortuary Tax is not a new initiative but rather a regulation that has been part of the Enugu State Mortuary Tax Law for years. He accused some social media users of altering the date on the circular to misrepresent the tax as a recent development.

He clarified that the fee is only N40, not N40,000, and that it is an indirect tax imposed on mortuary owners, not on the families of the deceased. For instance, if a corpse remains in the mortuary for 100 days, the mortuary would owe the state a total of N4,000.

Nnamani reiterated that the purpose of the tax is not to create a revenue stream but to encourage families to bury their loved ones promptly rather than keeping them in mortuaries for long durations. He assured the public that since the tax was introduced, no one has been denied the opportunity to bury their deceased family members.

A new bill sponsored by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu and eight other lawmakers aims to establish a university dedicated to the promotion and study of Nigerian languages. This initiative seeks to enhance the learning of the country’s diverse languages and cultures.

According to Section II, Part I of the bill, the university, once established, will “encourage the advancement of learning” and provide opportunities for higher education in Nigerian languages and cultures, without discrimination based on race, creed, sex, or political belief.

Key Provisions of the Bill:

• Presidential Oversight: Section 14 (2) mandates the President to conduct a visitation of the university at least once every five years or delegate this responsibility to designated individuals. This oversight aims to ensure the university’s proper functioning and adherence to its mission.
• Assistance and Facilities: Sub-section 3 stipulates that the university’s governing bodies must provide the necessary facilities and assistance during such visitations.
• Removal of Council Members: The President, acting as the Visitor, has the authority to remove council members, excluding the pro-chancellor and vice-chancellor.

The bill also focuses on developing and offering academic and professional programs that lead to diplomas, first degrees, postgraduate research, and higher degrees. It emphasizes the importance of planning, adaptive, developmental, and productive skills within the context of Nigerian languages and cultures.

Objectives:

The establishment of this federal institution aims to produce socially mature individuals capable of effectively communicating and utilizing Nigerian languages for national development. Furthermore, the university is envisioned to act as a catalyst for postgraduate training, research, and innovation, promoting the effective use and conservation of Nigeria’s natural, economic, and human resources.

Chief George Moghalu, the former Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), has recently transitioned from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the Labour Party (LP) as he gears up to contest the 2025 Anambra State governorship election. In a candid interview, he shared insights into his decision-making process and the motivations behind his new political journey.

You recently left the All Progressives Congress (APC), a party you were one of the key founding members of. What happened?
As a politician, I have not decided to quit politics. It’s my prerogative to decide what I intend to do. Upon resigning from the APC, I made it clear that I was open to consultations across the country with my colleagues, friends, and political associates. I returned to Anambra State to continue these discussions with my supporters. I convened my campaign council to determine our next steps following my resignation.

After extensive consultations, it became evident that the Labour Party (LP) provides the viable platform needed to realize my ambitions. I officially declared for LP on October 1, 2024. This decision isn’t about the party’s performance; it’s based on my decision and that of my collective team.

Is it true you switched over to LP because someone from your zone promised to deliver the LP ticket to you?
I would be pleased if anyone made such a promise, but as of now, no one has done so. I am aware that several others are also interested in using LP as a platform. As the campaign progresses, the party members will ultimately decide who will contest and win elections. Factors such as acceptability, credibility, ability, and capacity are crucial, and these will be considered before any final decision is made. The feedback I’ve received suggests that many within the party believe my entry would significantly benefit them.

There’s speculation about whether you are running for governor or the vacant Anambra South senatorial seat. What’s the truth?
People are free to speculate, and I take it as a compliment that I am a topic of discussion. However, I am running for governor of Anambra State, not for the Senate.

What is the burning urge that is pushing you to lead Anambra State?
There are numerous issues that need addressing. I believe in offering solutions rather than merely criticizing. I will issue a formal statement at my declaration where I will outline my governance agenda and what I intend to achieve. Our people are dissatisfied, facing infrastructural collapse and severe insecurity. It’s essential to re-engineer many aspects of governance.

The biggest loss for any administration is losing the confidence of the people. My primary goal in my previous campaign for governorship in 2003 was to restore that confidence. It’s always about the people; without them, we wouldn’t be in this political arena. However, you need a solid platform to execute your intentions and bring them to fruition, which is why I am here.

Recent figures from the official pricing template reveal that the pump price of locally produced premium motor spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, is now aligning with the price of imported products. However, petroleum marketers caution that this price parity may not be sustainable if exchange rates for both locally produced and imported fuels are left to market forces.

According to findings by Vanguard, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has increased the landing cost for imported PMS by 4% in October 2024, raising it to N956.13 per litre from N919.55 in September 2024. This rise is primarily attributed to fluctuations in the Naira’s value against the United States dollar, with the exchange rate changing from N1,625/$ in September to N1,645/$ in October.

An updated transactional analysis indicates that the total direct cost, which includes product costs and various charges, has been calculated at N913.12 per litre. This comprises:

• Product cost: N887.45
• Freight (Lome-Lagos): N10.37
• Port charges: N7.37
• Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) Levy: N4.47
• Storage cost: N2.58

Adding financial costs such as a letter of credit (N16.53) and total interest (N43.01) brings the total landing cost to N956.13 per litre.

Due to additional costs, including haulage and marketers’ margins, the average pump price for petrol is approximately N1,000 per litre. While major marketers, including NNPCL stations, sell petrol at around this price, independent marketers in the Lagos area are reportedly selling between N1,005 and N1,020 per litre, despite the officially recommended pump price being N998/litre.

Despite the current pricing landscape, many marketers believe the existing price differences are manageable and not excessively wide.

On Tuesday, September 10, 2024, I was returning to the city after spending the night with a friend near the international airport road in Abuja. I left his place around 7 a.m., eager to get home before my busy schedule filled with engagements for the day.

On a normal day, the drive to Garki takes about 30 minutes, but anticipating possible road issues, I prepared for a 45-minute journey. However, I soon realized my fuel was running low, prompting me to stop at a nearby filling station. To my dismay, fuel was selling for over a thousand Naira per liter. With no other options, I purchased a small amount to get me to my usual filling station in Central Area.

After leaving the filling station, I tuned into a new radio station where a friend had just been appointed General Manager. As I approached the Lugbe area on the airport road, I noticed unusual traffic buildup ahead. Assuming it was a minor incident, I expected it to clear soon.

However, as I progressed, the traffic grew denser instead of thinning out. This was puzzling, as I knew traffic congestion typically occurred near the city gate or around the Lokogoma/Jabi overpass. This particular blockage, however, was happening in an area that usually had free-flowing traffic.

To assess the situation better, I pulled to the curb, observing other drivers doing the same. Soon, several vehicles were parked by the roadside as we discussed the unusual traffic. After some time, I learned that a heavy-duty vehicle laden with containers had tipped over either late the previous night or early that morning, completely obstructing the road ahead.

This news was disheartening. Just then, I noticed vehicles on the opposite side of the expressway heading toward the city against traffic rules. Before long, drivers on our lane began reversing to access the opposite lanes, where traffic was moving smoothly. Those legally heading toward the airport had to swerve to avoid collisions with the many vehicles traveling the wrong way.

I called the friend with whom I had my first appointment to update him on my situation. After I mentioned my location, he confirmed that he had encountered the same blockage earlier that morning. He suggested rescheduling our meeting, which I agreed to.

At this point, no vehicles were coming from the city toward the airport, as those heading to the city had completely overtaken our lane. However, in the distance, I spotted vehicles branded with the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC), along with a crane and a lorry, making their way to the accident site about 500 meters ahead. I breathed a sigh of relief, hoping our ordeal would soon be over. I returned to my car, making frantic calls to my associates and tuning my radio for traffic updates, but the stations continued their regular programming, seemingly oblivious to the situation.

More than an hour after the FRSC’s arrival at the scene, the traffic situation remained unchanged. Finally, I noticed that traffic was officially being diverted from our lane to the opposite lane. I decided to start my car and inch forward. As I crawled closer to the accident site, I saw that, indeed, road safety officials were directing us to use the opposite lanes, allowing us to drive against traffic.

The doctrine of Separation of Powers is fundamental to the functioning of a constitutional democracy, aiming to maintain independence among the three branches of government—executive, legislative, and judiciary. This framework is designed to ensure that individual interests do not overshadow the public good, serving as a mechanism for checks and balances.

However, in Nigeria, a concerning trend has emerged where elected leaders, both in the executive and legislative branches, display a blatant disregard for the law. This impunity has become almost instinctual, leading to actions that often undermine democratic principles.

For instance, in 2018, former President Muhammadu Buhari controversially withdrew $1 billion from the Excess Crude Account for military purchases without the mandatory approval from the National Assembly. In the current administration, President Bola Tinubu faced public backlash for acquiring a new presidential jet amidst widespread economic hardship, showcasing a disconnect from the realities faced by the populace.

The executive’s influence extends into the legislative arena, with the President ensuring that only his preferred candidates ascend to leadership positions within the National Assembly. This manipulation creates a puppet government, eroding the essential checks and balances and fostering an environment ripe for tyranny and dictatorship.

At the state level, governors often treat their jurisdictions as personal territories, exerting total control over resources and political processes. They frequently co-opt their State Houses of Assembly, reducing local governments to mere extensions of state power. Many governors lead extravagant lifestyles, flaunting fleets of luxury vehicles and frequently chartering private jets, all while neglecting to pay their workers’ salaries and pensions. Such behavior reflects a gross misuse of public resources for personal gain.

Additionally, the conduct of the police during elections exemplifies the challenges to democratic processes. Instead of protecting the integrity of elections, the police have been known to collude with corrupt officials, facilitating the falsification of results and even tampering with ballot boxes, leaving voters helpless.

This environment has led to widespread frustration among Nigerians, who assert that while the nation may be under civil rule, true democracy is absent. There is a growing consensus that constitutional amendments are necessary to reinforce institutional frameworks and curb the excesses of elected officials. Citizens are increasingly united in their call for accountability, determined to take a stand against the status quo and demand better governance.

Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal has expressed optimism about the improving security situation in the state, following the reported deaths of several terrorist leaders. Speaking to journalists after a closed-door meeting with Vice President Kashim Shettima at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, the governor emphasized the ongoing efforts of his administration to combat banditry, while also acknowledging that the ultimate fate of the people rests in God’s hands.

Despite the positive outlook, Governor Lawal’s comments come in the wake of a troubling incident in which armed bandits killed a police officer and kidnapped an expatriate, along with numerous travelers, including workers from a construction firm. This occurred on Thursday morning when bandits blocked the Tsafe-Funtua road, firing at passing vehicles.

Governor Lawal stated, “We are doing the best that we can to ensure the lives and properties of our people. It’s an ongoing process and will continue until we end this banditry issue in Zamfara and, invariably, Nigeria as a nation.” He highlighted that insecurity in Zamfara has persisted for the past 12 years, and his administration is committed to tackling the issue head-on.

While the governor refrained from disclosing specific security measures taken by his administration, he indicated that efforts have led to the elimination of some key bandit leaders. When asked about the timeline for restoring calm to Zamfara, he responded, “I’m praying that even by tomorrow, they [Zamfara residents] can go to sleep. We’re doing the best that we can, but it’s in the hands of God.”

The governor’s statements reflect a cautious optimism amidst ongoing security challenges in the region.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Bayelsa State has suspended several prominent members, including Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, Minister of State for Petroleum, and David Lyon, the party’s 2019 governorship candidate. This action follows accusations of anti-party activities and factionalism within the party at the state level.

The suspensions were announced by the APC executives in the Ekeremor and Southern Ijaw Local Government Areas. Other individuals suspended include Peres Biewari (Commissioner for Lands and Survey), Jonathan Amos (former state party chairman), Godbless Diriwari (ex-officio member of the national executive), and several local leaders such as Omiebi Fuoebi and Sabi Morgan.

Mitin Eniekenemi, Chairman of the APC in Ekeremor LGA, confirmed that the suspensions were based on findings from an internal disciplinary committee operating under Article 21.3(1) of the APC Constitution.

However, Ogeibiri Orubebemienkumor, a former Deputy Chairman of the party in the state, criticized the suspensions as “laughable” and “null and void.” He referenced a valid court order that nullified the party’s congresses in 2021, asserting that the current APC leadership lacks legitimacy and that the suspensions are contemptuous of that order.

Another party member, Alex Blankson, echoed these sentiments, stating that the individuals involved do not have the authority to convene meetings or impose suspensions due to the ongoing court proceedings. He urged the National Working Committee of the APC to establish an acting committee to restore order within the Bayelsa State chapter of the party.

The situation continues to unfold, highlighting the internal conflicts and legal challenges facing the APC in Bayelsa.

In an interview on Arise Television, Joe Ajaero, the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), discussed the understanding reached with President Bola Tinubu during the national minimum wage negotiations. Ajaero revealed that the organized labour had initially insisted on a minimum wage of N250,000 but ultimately accepted a revised offer of N70,000 after rejecting an increase in petroleum prices.

During the meeting at the Presidential Villa, Ajaero explained that the organized labour was presented with a choice: accept an increase in the price of petroleum products or maintain the status quo at N62,000 for the minimum wage. Ajaero recounted that President Tinubu implied that if the NLC allowed for a petrol price increase, he would agree to the higher minimum wage. However, the labour representatives declined this proposition and insisted on focusing solely on the minimum wage discussion.

Ajaero stated, “The basis of accepting the N70,000 minimum wage was for the president not to increase the pump price of petroleum products, and we made it clear there. If he had gone ahead to increase it, then we need to discuss the implications because we can’t compare N70,000 with what is happening now.” He noted that the recent spike in petroleum prices has dramatically affected transportation costs, contributing to the hardships faced by workers.

Additionally, Ajaero criticized the government for inflating the cost of converting vehicles to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG). He pointed out that the government’s quoted conversion cost of N800,000 was significantly higher than the N300,000 agreement made with a team of experts.

Ajaero emphasized the need for the government to engage in consultations with social partners before implementing such changes, arguing that governance should be about collaboration and negotiation rather than unilateral increases in tariffs and prices. He warned that the price hike has exacerbated the suffering of Nigerians and called for a reversal of the increase to alleviate the burden on workers.

In summary, the NLC President highlighted the importance of transparency, consultation, and accountability in governance, particularly concerning the recent adjustments in minimum wage and petroleum pricing.

In a fiery campaign speech on Friday, Donald Trump depicted an apocalyptic vision of a country “occupied” by waves of criminal foreigners, intensifying his rhetoric surrounding immigration as the November U.S. election approaches. As the race tightens, the former Republican president is splitting his message between a protectionist economic platform and a narrative that demonizes immigrants to rally his predominantly white, working-class supporters.

Trump’s speech in Aurora, Colorado, marked one of his most divisive addresses to date, filled with wild exaggerations about local tensions and misleading claims regarding immigration statistics and policies. He declared, “America is known, all throughout the world, as ‘Occupied America.’ They call it ‘occupied.’ We’re being occupied by a criminal force.” The 80-minute address focused almost exclusively on immigration, and he made a bold pledge: “November 5, 2024 will be Liberation Day in America,” while surrounded by posters depicting foreign suspects accused of crimes.

Despite ongoing challenges in managing the southern border with Mexico, Trump has escalated fears by alleging that an “invasion” of migrants poses severe threats, claiming they will engage in violent acts against Americans. He has specifically targeted his Democratic opponent, Kamala Harris, labeling her a “criminal” and making false statements about Venezuelan gangs being permitted to shoot police officers. He warned of an “enemy from within,” claiming they pose a greater danger than any foreign adversary.

To combat these perceived threats, Trump announced plans to use the Alien Enemies Act of 1798, which permits the federal government to detain and deport foreigners from enemy nations, launching a mass deportation initiative dubbed “Operation Aurora.”

It’s worth noting that violent crime has decreased each year during President Joe Biden’s administration, even though Trump’s tenure saw a spike in such incidents. Studies indicate that migrants commit fewer crimes than native-born citizens, despite some high-profile cases of violent crimes involving foreign suspects, which have fueled Republican outrage.

In contrast to Trump’s inflammatory rhetoric, Kamala Harris, campaigning in Scottsdale, Arizona, emphasized unity. She committed to forming a “bipartisan council of advisors” and including a Republican in her cabinet, stating, “In the last several years in our country, there are some powerful forces that are trying to divide us as Americans.” Harris urged her audience to focus on shared values rather than division, declaring, “We have more in common than what separates us.”

The divergent approaches of Trump and Harris highlight the contrasting narratives shaping the final stages of the presidential race as both candidates seek to mobilize their respective bases ahead of the election.

Observer groups have strongly condemned the widespread irregularities and violence that marred the recent local government elections in Rivers State, which took place despite court rulings and significant security concerns.

The Independent Election Monitoring Group (IEMG) reported a range of serious irregularities, including the lack of essential election materials, the non-use of electoral registers, and questionable declarations of results. Their preliminary report also highlighted instances of arson and violence, allegedly perpetrated by supporters of the ruling party.

Dr. Emmanuel Agabi, Executive Director of the IEMG, briefed journalists in Abuja, emphasizing the severity of the situation. He stated that Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s insistence on conducting the elections, despite existing court orders and security warnings, significantly contributed to the breakdown of law and order in the state.

Notably, the Nigerian Police were cleared of any wrongdoing as they had withdrawn from the election process due to a Federal High Court ruling.

In light of these findings, the IEMG has recommended several actions, including a comprehensive investigation into the arson attacks, the nullification of the election results, the deployment of federal security forces, and a dialogue between the governor and opposition parties.

Agabi remarked, “The Rivers State local government elections and the subsequent acts of arson represent a low point in the state’s political history. Clearly, the local government elections have exposed the fragility of the democratic process in the state.”

He further criticized Governor Fubara’s determination to consolidate political power through the Action Peoples Party (APP) and his disregard for legal rulings, warning that such actions have led to a crisis threatening both the democratic fabric of Rivers State and the security of its citizens.

“The refusal to honor court rulings, combined with the manipulation of electoral processes and violent suppression of opposition, demonstrates a clear disregard for the rule of law,” Agabi stated.

He warned that the state’s political crisis would only worsen if urgent steps are not taken to restore order, accountability, and respect for democratic principles. The use of arson as a tool for political intimidation is not only reprehensible but poses a significant risk of escalating into broader conflict.