Here’s a detailed breakdown of the recent court decision regarding the Rivers Local Government dispute:

Federal High Court, Port Harcourt
Friday
Justice Muhammed Turaki
Initiative for Transparency, Strategy and Good Leadership, indigene of Rivers State (Joshua Rufus), and 21 former local government chairmen.

– The court has granted an ex parte application allowing the service of court documents to the Inspector General of Police (IGP) and the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) through substituted means.
– The State Commissioner of Police in Rivers State will be served through the Officer in Charge (OC) Legal at the State CID.

– The defendants include the IGP, the Commissioner of Police in Rivers State, the AGF, the Attorney General of Rivers State, the Governor of Rivers State (Siminalayi Fubara), and the Head of Service.

– The Initiative for Transparency, Strategy and Good Leadership, along with Joshua Rufus, is seeking relief to have the police vacate the local government council entrances across the 23 LGAs in Rivers State.
– The claimants argue that the police presence at these entrances is impeding normal business activities.

– The court issued an ex parte order allowing the service of court documents on the Attorney General of Rivers State, the Governor of Rivers State, and the Head of Service by delivering the documents to the Attorney General’s office.

– N.O. Onyilokwu and Clarissa C. Chibuike have appeared seeking to join the matter on behalf of the 21 former local government chairmen.

– The court has adjourned the case to September 2, 2024, for further proceedings.

The case involves a dispute over the presence of police at local government council secretariats in Rivers State, which the claimants argue is hindering their operations and activities. The court’s decision to permit substituted service aims to ensure that all involved parties are properly notified and can respond to the claims being made.

A Chinese firm, Zhongshan Fucheng Industrial Investment Company, has announced the release of one of the three Nigerian presidential jets that were seized by order of a French court. The announcement was made on Friday through a company spokesperson.

The aircraft, an Airbus A330, was among three jets seized by Zhongshan following a court order. The seizure was linked to a contract dispute with the Ogun State government dating back to 2016, which led to the firm securing a French court order for the detention of the Dassault Falcon 7X, Boeing 737-7N6/BBJ, and Airbus A330-243.

In a statement, Zhongshan explained that the release of the Airbus A330 was a gesture of goodwill, prompted by the need for the aircraft to facilitate a scheduled meeting between Nigerian President Bola Tinubu and French President Emmanuel Macron. The firm’s decision to release the plane allows it to be used for the trip, which is expected to take place early next week.

The Nigerian government had previously announced that it was pursuing both legal and diplomatic measures to address the situation. The move by Zhongshan to release the Airbus A330 follows ongoing negotiations and efforts by the Nigerian government to resolve the issue surrounding the seizure of the aircraft.

This development marks a significant step in the ongoing arbitration efforts by foreign companies against Nigeria, as they claim the country has reneged on various agreements. The resolution of this specific case is seen as an important moment in addressing the broader challenges Nigeria faces with international arbitration.

Nigerian rap sensation Jeriq, who recently released his highly anticipated album King, is making waves in the hip-hop scene, particularly in Igbo rap.

In a recent interview with Apple Music Africa Now Radio, Jeriq reflected on his musical journey, which began in the choir of his Catholic church and was further inspired by his father’s love for Igbo Highlife music. He recounted recording his first official track in 2015, marking the start of his career.

Ahead of his album release, Jeriq dropped the single ‘Jehovah,’ accompanied by a motivational video portraying his rise from struggle to success. He described the video as a “rags to riches” story meant to inspire others to persevere.

Jeriq’s new album, King, symbolizes his triumph over adversity and his affirmation of his dominance in the rap scene. He celebrates his achievements through this work, sharing stories of his challenges and victories.

Notably, Jeriq’s success includes a memorable 2023 concert in Enugu, attended by 15,000 fans. Emphasizing his deep connection with his roots, he proudly declares himself a “hometown hero” and announces plans to elevate his career further with a stadium concert this November.

With the release of King, Jeriq solidifies his position as a major force in Nigerian indigenous rap music.

Nollywood actress Ini Dima-Okojie has revealed that she is giving up bread, meat, and other foods to address the return of her fibroids. After initially having her fibroids removed in late 2020, Okojie is now taking a holistic approach to manage the condition without undergoing another surgery.

In a TikTok video posted on August 15, 2024, Okojie detailed her new diet, which excludes red meat, white carbohydrates, dairy, refined sugars, processed foods, carbonated drinks, caffeine, and high-sodium items. She explained that these changes are intended to reduce estrogen levels, which can contribute to fibroid growth.

Okojie expressed the emotional difficulty of facing the return of her fibroids but is committed to this dietary approach as a preventive measure.

Nigerian singer and activist Charly Boy has strongly criticized the Nigerian government following the seizure of three presidential jets in France. The incident, linked to a legal dispute involving the Ogun State government and the Chinese company Zhongshan Fucheng Industrial Investment Co. Ltd, has caused significant embarrassment and confusion.

In a scathing Instagram post on August 16, 2024, Charly Boy questioned the legitimacy and transparency of the Nigerian government. He expressed outrage over the jets’ presence in France, asking, “Is that Tinubu’s second home?” and accused the administration of corruption and self-serving behavior.

Charly Boy further commented on the broader impact of corruption, emphasizing the need for leaders who prioritize the nation over personal gain. His remarks come after the Chinese firm won a court ruling in Paris allowing it to seize the jets. The Nigerian government has denounced the move as ‘fraudulent.’

Nigerian music icon Timaya has unveiled his highly anticipated ninth studio album, Gladiator. This release highlights his lasting influence and evolution in the music industry over a two-decade career.

ALBUM HIGHLIGHTS:

• Gladiator offers a dynamic mix of dancehall, soca, Afrobeats, and hip-hop, showcasing Timaya’s versatility.
• The 12-track album features collaborations with prominent artists such as Phyno, Olamide, Tiwa Savage, and Jamaican dancehall star Konshens.
• Production is spearheaded by Young D, renowned for his work with artists like Gyptian, Davido, and Shenseea.

Timaya describes Gladiator as “a movement, a declaration of self-belief, and a call to rise above life’s challenges.” The album’s vibrant rhythms and melodies reflect his personal journey, capturing his battles and victories while staying true to his roots.

On August 9, 2024, Asake’s latest album Lungu Boy achieved a significant milestone by setting the record for the highest opening week streams on Spotify Nigeria. The album garnered 18.9 million streams in its debut week, surpassing the previous record of 14.4 million streams held by Davido’s Timeless.

Top Opening Weeks on Spotify Nigeria:

1. Asake – ‘Lungu Boy’ – 18.9M
2. Davido – ‘Timeless’ – 14.4M
3. Rema – ‘HEIS’ – 12.3M
4. Burna Boy – ‘I Told Them’ – 9.4M
5. Asake – ‘Work Of Art’ – 8.3M

The album also set a new record for the biggest opening day global streams for a Nigerian album on Spotify, with 9.2 million streams. The track “MMS” from the album recorded 870,577 streams on its first day, surpassing the previous record of 626,000 streams set by Wizkid’s “IDK” feat Zlatan.

Asake’s Lungu Boy features collaborations with notable artists including Wizkid, Central Cee, Stormzy, Travis Scott, and Ludmila, further boosting its visibility and success. The album’s impressive performance highlights Asake’s growing influence in the Nigerian and global music scenes.

Dr. Erasmus Ekpang, Cross River Commissioner for Information, has announced that the state’s monthly internally generated revenue (IGR) has reached ₦6.3 billion. This significant increase is attributed to the restoration of public trust in governance under Governor Bassey Otu.

Ekpang, speaking at a press briefing in Calabar, highlighted that the current administration’s commitment to transparency and effective use of public funds has encouraged residents and businesses to willingly pay their taxes. He noted that this positive shift in public confidence has been instrumental in achieving the revenue milestone.

The commissioner also outlined ongoing people-oriented projects as evidence of the governor’s dedication to improving the quality of life for residents. Additionally, efforts are being made to renovate and re-equip state-owned media facilities, which were previously damaged or neglected.

The renovation of the Chronicle office, projected to cost over ₦400 million, and the procurement of a new transmitter for the state broadcasting corporation are key parts of this initiative. These upgrades aim to enhance media efficiency and expand the reach of broadcasting services beyond Calabar.

The Ondo State Government has initiated the payment of ₦3.2 billion in outstanding gratuity to pensioners. This payment is intended to clear the total gratuity owed to retirees under the State Pension Scheme from 2015.

Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa announced the disbursement on Friday in Akure, stating that ₦1 billion of the amount would cover the gratuity for local government retirees from 2012 and 2013, while ₦2.2 billion would address the 2015 gratuity for state pensioners.

Aiyedatiwa emphasized that the payment was part of a strategic approach to resolve the backlog of arrears, which had caused significant distress among retirees. He assured that the administration is committed to gradually clearing the remaining backlog as finances improve.

The Governor highlighted that despite other financial commitments, addressing the gratuity arrears remains a priority. He appealed for patience from retirees who are still awaiting their payments.

Amidu Takuro, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, and Johnson Osunyemi, Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP) in the state, both expressed their appreciation for the governor’s efforts. Beneficiaries, including Adedayo Ajayi, also extended their gratitude for the resolution of the long-standing issue.

Asue Ighodalo, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for the upcoming Edo State governorship election, has issued a seven-day ultimatum to Senator Adams Oshiomhole, demanding a retraction of alleged “malicious and slanderous” statements made against him on national television. The controversy stems from Oshiomhole’s appearance on Arise News, where he allegedly made “reckless and unfounded statements” about Ighodalo’s candidacy.

Ighodalo’s legal team, Ayo Asala (SAN) & Associates, delivered the ultimatum on August 12, 2024, requiring Oshiomhole to issue public and private apologies, to be published in Vanguard and ThisDay newspapers. Failure to comply within the stipulated time frame will result in a ₦20 billion lawsuit against Oshiomhole.

In response, the Esan Professionals For Progress, a prominent socio-political group, expressed strong support for Ighodalo’s legal action, condemning Oshiomhole’s remarks and applauding Ighodalo for defending his integrity. The group emphasized the importance of addressing misinformation in Nigerian politics and warned that allowing such behavior to go unchecked could threaten the integrity of the electoral process.

They urged Oshiomhole to retract his statements, noting that failure to do so would tarnish his legacy. The Esan Professionals also called on Edo citizens to support Ighodalo in his pursuit of truth and justice.

INTERVIEW: Why Ogun’s CNG Initiative is a Game Changer – Gov. Abiodun

Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has elaborated on why the introduction of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) is a transformative move for Ogun State and Nigeria. In an interview with journalists, Abiodun discussed how the conversion of state buses to CNG and the introduction of electric and CNG-powered vehicles are addressing the effects of fuel subsidy removal and aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

1. CNG Initiative and Its Impact
Governor Abiodun highlighted that Ogun State launched its CNG Mass Transit Programme last year, converting state-owned buses to CNG-powered models. This was a proactive measure anticipating the deregulation of fuel prices.
On Wednesday, Ogun State introduced electric motorbikes, tricycles, and CNG vehicles. This initiative aims to cut transportation costs by approximately 45%, reduce pollution, and stimulate local economies through new charging stations.

2. Comparison with Fuel Costs
Abiodun shared that CNG-powered tricycles, which previously cost around N14,000 for a full tank of fuel, now cost only about N2,000 to operate for the same distance. This significant reduction in cost is expected to ease transportation expenses for residents.

3. Strategic Advantage
Ogun State’s proximity to Lagos and its access to gas pipelines give it a unique advantage in implementing the CNG initiative. Abiodun noted that this strategic position facilitated the rapid adoption of CNG technology in the state.

4. National Context
The governor addressed the broader context of the CNG initiative, mentioning that while there were reports of federal support for CNG mass transit, actual disbursement and implementation are still ongoing. He emphasized that national rollout will take time but is expected to follow Ogun State’s lead.

5. Addressing Inflation and Subsidy Removal
Abiodun emphasized that reducing transportation costs is crucial, as high transport expenses contribute to inflation and affect food prices. The CNG initiative is part of a broader strategy to mitigate these impacts.

6. Government Actions and Economic Reforms
Abiodun praised President Tinubu’s efforts to address the economic challenges resulting from fuel subsidy removal. He mentioned various government actions, including wage awards, student loans, and agricultural support, aimed at alleviating the economic burden on Nigerians.

7. Public Engagement and Governance
The governor defended the current administration’s responsiveness to public concerns and its commitment to addressing governance issues. He noted the government’s efforts to engage with different groups and explain its policies.

8. Future Prospects
Abiodun expressed confidence that the ongoing efforts to stabilize the economy and reduce transportation costs will yield positive results over time. He encouraged patience from the public as the benefits of these policies unfold.

This interview underscores Ogun State’s innovative approach to transportation and energy solutions while reflecting on the broader national context of economic reform and policy implementation.

Vice-President Kashim Shettima has urged Nigerians to place their trust in President Bola Tinubu, emphasizing the President’s commitment to the nation. Speaking at the launch of a book titled “Navigating the Politics of Universal Education Policies in Nigeria,” authored by former Ekiti Deputy Governor Prof. Modupe Adelabu, Shettima expressed confidence in Tinubu’s intentions, stating, “I have seen the soul of Bola Tinubu, and he has a good soul.”

Shettima addressed misconceptions about Tinubu, noting that he is often demonized despite having no interest in personal wealth accumulation. He highlighted Tinubu’s focus on significant reforms, particularly in the education sector, where the President is working to remove obstacles to universal education in Nigeria.

Shettima also discussed the recent Supreme Court ruling that granted financial autonomy to local governments, which he believes will enhance the delivery of primary education. However, he warned against misusing this autonomy and stressed the importance of collaboration between the Federal, State, and local governments to achieve educational goals.

The Vice-President praised Tinubu’s initiatives, such as the Students’ Loan Scheme, which aims to secure the future of Nigerian children by making education more accessible. He reassured Nigerians that the administration is committed to creating positive changes in the economy and the nation’s overall well-being.

Prof. Adelabu’s book, which delves into the politics and financing of education in Nigeria, was lauded for addressing critical issues facing the sector. The event featured discussions on the need for comprehensive educational reforms and the importance of quality education over mere school attendance. Notable speakers, including Gov. Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti and former First Lady of Ekiti, Erelu Bisi Fayemi, echoed the call for a reevaluation of Nigeria’s education system to better serve the nation’s needs.

The Lagos State Government has announced a traffic diversion at Ikeja Along bus stop between Ile Zik and Conoil Petrol Station on the Oshodi-bound lane, scheduled from Saturday to Sunday. The diversion will take place daily between 12 midnight and 4:00 am to facilitate the demolition of the old pedestrian bridge by the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA).

Commissioner for Transportation, Oluwaseun Osiyemi, stated that during the demolition, only one lane on the Oshodi-bound side will be available to motorists, while the Dopemu/Abule Egba bound side will remain unaffected. The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) will manage vehicular movement to minimize inconveniences.

Osiyemi urged motorists to cooperate during the demolition, noting that safety measures, including jersey barriers and protective nets, will be in place to protect both motorists and commuters.

The Senior and Junior Staff Association of the Food, Beverages, and Tobacco Association has criticized the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) for failing to lift the ban on alcoholic beverages in sachets. The union expressed concerns that the continued enforcement of the ban could lead to the shutdown of more industries, exacerbating Nigeria’s economic challenges.

The National House of Assembly had previously intervened in the issue, urging NAFDAC to lift the ban while implementing stricter regulations and access control measures. Despite this, NAFDAC has maintained its stance, leading to heightened tensions between the regulatory body and industry stakeholders.

The General Superintendent of Deeper Christian Life Ministry, Dr. William Kumuyi, has called on women to become active agents of positive change in Nigeria’s growth. Speaking at the Global Women’s Conference held in Port Harcourt, Kumuyi emphasized the crucial role women play in nation-building and urged them to be change-makers in their families, markets, communities, and workplaces.

The six-day conference, organized by the Change Makers International Initiative (CMI), focused on the theme “Driving Positive Change and Social Impact.” Kumuyi described the movement as non-religious, non-partisan, and non-denominational, with a mission to foster positive economic and social development across the country.

Kumuyi outlined key principles for driving positive change, including righteousness, intelligence, watchfulness, strategic thinking, and resilience. He encouraged women to lead by example and to actively work towards uniting and uplifting their communities and nation.

Other speakers at the conference, including Rivers State’s Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Justice, Charity Clapton-Ogolo, and Environmental Activist Ankio Briggs, echoed Kumuyi’s sentiments. They emphasized the importance of personal development, the use of technology, and the involvement of women in decision-making processes at all levels of government.