Labor unions at the University of Cross River (UNICROSS) have initiated a three-day warning strike starting August 19, 2024, to address several unresolved issues. The strike involves members of the Non-Academic Staff Union (NASU), the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU), and the National Association of Academic Technologists (NAAT).

The unions had previously issued multiple notices—on June 11, July 15, and August 7, 2024—giving the university authorities ample time to address their concerns. According to a joint statement from Mark Ayo, SSANU Chairman, and Vincent Etta, NAAT Chairman, the authorities failed to take action on these grievances, prompting the strike.

The key issues include:

• Poor Funding: Insufficient financial resources allocated to the university.
• Unmet Salary Adjustments: Non-implementation of agreed 25% and 35% consequential salary adjustments.
• Lack of Capital Projects: Absence of new development projects at the university.
• Land Encroachment: Issues related to encroachment by the host community on university land.

The unions emphasize that the strike aims to highlight the neglect and difficulties faced by university staff. They believe addressing these concerns is crucial for the institution’s growth and the welfare of its employees.

The Akwa Ibom State government, led by Head of Civil Service Effiong Essien, will soon engage in discussions with labor unions about implementing the new minimum wage. This comes after the release of a consequential adjustment circular from the Federal Government, which is essential for finalizing wage increases.

Essien noted that the state is awaiting this circular from the National Salaries Incomes and Wages Commission to determine the new minimum wage implementation details. Once received, the state government will initiate internal processes to integrate these adjustments.

Sunny James, Chairman of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) in Akwa Ibom, confirmed that discussions with the state government have not yet begun. He emphasized that while the state has a ₦70,000 minimum wage law, proper consequential adjustments are necessary to align the salary table.

James expressed confidence that negotiations will result in the acceptance of the new wage law and anticipates that the government will comply without issues. However, some state governors have previously indicated challenges in meeting the ₦70,000 wage commitment.

The upcoming discussions will focus on ensuring that the new wage is implemented effectively and equitably across the state.

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has forecasted thunderstorms and rain across the country from Monday to Wednesday. The weather conditions will likely bring significant changes, with varying impacts across different regions:

• Northern Nigeria: Thunderstorms are expected in Kano, Katsina, Zamfara, Jigawa, Kaduna, Taraba, Bauchi, Kebbi, Adamawa, and Sokoto States, particularly in the mornings and afternoons.
• North Central: Intermittent rains are anticipated in Niger, Nasarawa, Benue, Kwara, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), and Plateau States during the morning, with thunderstorms expected later in the day.
• Southern Nigeria: Cloudy skies are predicted for the southern region in the morning, transitioning to intermittent rains in Osun, Oyo, Ekiti, Ebonyi, Enugu, Anambra, Cross River, Rivers, Delta, Bayelsa, and Akwa Ibom States later in the day.

The agency warns of potential urban flooding due to the heavy downpours and advises residents to avoid flood-prone areas. Strong winds may accompany thunderstorms, and public and airline operators are urged to stay updated with NiMet’s weather forecasts for effective planning.

Residents are encouraged to stay informed through NiMet’s website and adhere to safety advisories.

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has announced that August 20, 2024, will be a work-free day to celebrate Isese Day. This move aims to honor and promote the identity of adherents of traditional religions.

The declaration, communicated through a statement by the Head of Service, Bode Agoro, marks the first time Lagos State has officially recognized Isese Day with a public holiday. This follows the United Nations’ designation of August 20 as World Traditional Religion Day.

Public offices and courts in Lagos will be closed on Tuesday, August 20, with regular work resuming on Wednesday. This initiative reflects a broader effort to acknowledge and support the cultural and religious diversity of the state.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State is in mourning following the death of its Chairman, Hon. Isaac Omodewu. The 61-year-old leader passed away on August 16, 2024, in the United States after a prolonged illness.

Omodewu had been receiving treatment in a U.S. hospital since late last year, but his health deteriorated, leading to his death. The exact details of his illness remain undisclosed.

In a statement, the APC Oyo’s Publicity Secretary, Olawale Sadare, expressed deep sorrow over Omodewu’s passing, calling it a “devastating blow” to the party and the nation. Sadare described Omodewu as a person of “humility, kindness, and selflessness,” acknowledging his efforts in stabilizing the party during a turbulent time.

The APC extended its condolences to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the APC National Chairman, and all party members across Nigeria, noting the significant loss of a leader who had made substantial contributions to the party’s unity and progress.

Former Senator Ishaku Abbo, who represented Adamawa North Senatorial District in the 9th National Assembly, has stirred debate with his recent comments about the financial realities of holding public office in Nigeria. In an interview on Arise TV, Abbo claimed that despite substantial earnings during his time in the Senate, he ended up financially worse off.

Abbo revealed that his cumulative monthly earnings in the Senate, which included a base salary of ₦1 million and various allowances totaling ₦14.4 million, were insufficient given the demands of his role. He noted that current senators earn approximately ₦29 million monthly but admitted that this amount can appear misleading when considering the actual financial strain of public service.

Abbo shared a personal account of his financial struggles, explaining that he had to leave a successful business to enter politics. He described the substantial costs of assisting constituents, including a notable instance where he spent ₦14 million on medical care for an individual.

He also drew comparisons to state governors, alleging they receive up to ₦1 billion monthly for state responsibilities, contrasting this with his own experiences. Abbo’s revelations come amid ongoing debates about the remuneration of Nigerian lawmakers, adding a new dimension to the discussion about the financial realities of public service in Nigeria.

The recent order by Justice Sylvanus Oriji of the FCT High Court to confine Abuja protests to the MKO Abiola National Stadium has sparked considerable debate. Legal experts have come out in support of the court’s decision, citing constitutional powers and security concerns.

Christopher Adie, an Abuja-based legal practitioner, defended the court’s ruling, emphasizing the broad judicial powers granted under Section 6(6) of the Nigerian Constitution. Adie explained that the court’s order was a preventive measure aimed at avoiding potential national crises. He highlighted that the protesters had requested the removal of security barriers near the Presidential Villa, which raised significant security risks.

Cornelius Nwapi, another legal expert, praised the judge’s decision, stressing that judicial officers, unlike members of the executive or legislature, often lack vocal advocates. Nwapi acknowledged Justice Oriji’s fair-minded approach and the necessity of the court’s actions to balance the right to protest with public safety.

Justice Oriji’s ruling, issued on July 31, restricts protests to the MKO Abiola Stadium while acknowledging the right to peaceful assembly. The decision aimed to prevent disruptions and ensure the protection of public facilities and the movement of citizens.

Bashir Hadejia, recently arrested by Nigerian authorities for alleged gun-running and facing charges of treason, has been photographed with several prominent figures in Nigerian politics. His connections to influential politicians have come under scrutiny following his arrest. Here is a list of notable politicians he has been pictured with:

1. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima
   • Hadejia is seen in a handshake with President Tinubu, with Vice President Shettima in the background. His frequent visits to the State House earned him the nickname ‘Villa Boy.’
2. Ex-President Muhammadu Buhari
   • In 2020, Hadejia was part of the delegation presenting gold bars to then-President Buhari, a gesture highlighted by the Zamfara State Governor.
3. Femi Gbajabiamila – Chief of Staff to the President
   • Hadejia was photographed with Femi Gbajabiamila, the current Chief of Staff to President Tinubu, at his office.
4. Nuhu Ribadu – National Security Adviser (NSA)
   • A picture of Hadejia with NSA Nuhu Ribadu was taken during one of his visits to the presidential villa.
5. Bello Matawalle – Minister of Defence
   • Hadejia has been reported as a close aide to Bello Matawalle, both during Matawalle’s tenure as Governor of Zamfara and his current role as Minister of Defence.
6. Mohammed Abubakar Badaru – Minister of Defence
   • Hadejia has also been pictured with Mohammed Badaru, another prominent figure in the defence sector.
7. Femi Fani-Kayode and Aminu Tambuwal
   • Hadejia has been seen with Femi Fani-Kayode and Aminu Tambuwal, adding to his list of high-profile connections.

Hadejia’s arrest and the connections revealed through these photographs have sparked significant public and media interest.

The Supreme Court has reserved judgment on the appeal filed by Murtala Ajaka of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) concerning the Kogi governorship election. Ajaka’s appeal is against the decisions of both the tribunal and the Appeal Court.

During the hearing, Ajaka’s counsel, Pius Akubo, SAN, requested that a full panel of seven justices be constituted to hear the appeal, citing specific paragraphs in the appellant’s brief. However, this request was opposed by the respondents’ lawyers, who argued that a five-member panel was sufficient.

Chief Justice Garba Lawal, leading the five-man panel, ruled that the current panel had the jurisdiction to hear the case. The court proceeded with the hearing, during which arguments were presented by both sides. The respondents’ representatives, including Emmanuel Ukala for the APC, Chief Kanu Agabi for INEC, and Joseph Daudu for Gov Usman Ododo, challenged the appeal and sought its dismissal.

The panel’s decision on Ajaka’s appeal will be announced on a later date to be communicated to the parties involved.