Nigeria’s legal entanglement with the Chinese company Zhongshan Fucheng Industrial Investment Co. Ltd. has intensified following a recent US appellate court ruling. The court has upheld a $70 million arbitration award against the Nigerian government, allowing Zhongshan Fucheng to enforce the award by imposing final charging orders on two Nigerian-owned residential properties in the United States.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISPUTE

The conflict originated from a 2010 agreement between Zhongshan Fucheng and the Ogun State government in Nigeria, which granted the Chinese firm, through its parent company Zhuhai Zhongfu Industrial Group Co. Ltd., the rights to develop a free trade zone. However, disputes arose in 2016 when Zhongshan accused Ogun State of attempting to terminate its contract and replace the free trade zone management.

COURT RULING AND IMPACT

On August 9, 2024, the US appellate court confirmed the previous decision of the US District Court for the District of Columbia. The court’s ruling supports Zhongshan Fucheng’s right to enforce the $70 million arbitration award, despite Nigeria’s attempts to claim state immunity.

Judge Sara Cockerill had earlier dismissed Nigeria’s immunity claim, citing misuse of appeal timelines. The appellate court, with Judges Patricia Millett and Julianna Childs in the majority, ruled that the arbitration award was enforceable under the New York Convention. They reasoned that the dispute involved “persons” in a commercial relationship, and Nigeria was not protected by sovereign immunity under the Foreign Sovereign Immunities Act (FSIA).

DISSENTING OPINION

Judge Gregory Katsas dissented, arguing that the New York Convention should not include sovereign nations as “persons” and that Ogun State’s actions should not be imputed to the Nigerian government. Katsas maintained that the arbitration award pertained to Nigeria’s sovereign acts under international law.

ONGOING CONSEQUENCES

This ruling exacerbates Nigeria’s efforts to manage the fallout from the international dispute, which has already led to attempts to seize Nigerian assets in Europe. The case highlights the complexities of international investment disputes and the limitations of sovereign immunity in the face of enforceable arbitration awards.

Nigeria’s $220 million fine against Meta marks a significant step in enforcing data protection standards. However, there are questions about whether such a fine is sufficient to compel a major tech company like Meta to change its data practices.

THE NATURE OF THE FINE

For most companies, $220 million would be a considerable penalty. Yet, for Meta, which reports quarterly revenues in the billions, this amount might not significantly impact its operations. This disparity raises concerns about whether financial penalties alone are enough to ensure compliance from tech giants.

CALLS FOR BROADER MEASURES

Sani Suleiman from Paradigm Initiative (PIN) has called for more than just financial penalties. He emphasized the need for transparency in the engagement between the Nigerian government and tech companies, pointing out past instances of opaque agreements and content suppression.

REGULATORY CAPACITY AND EFFECTIVENESS

Suleiman and Adeboye Adegoke of PIN stress that regulators need to develop skills and resources beyond imposing fines. Effective platform governance requires a nuanced approach and robust regulatory capacity to address complex issues like data privacy and content moderation.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Nigeria’s regulatory landscape includes various initiatives, such as the NITDA Code of Practice and efforts by APCON and the NBC. However, Adegoke argues that regulating social media requires a multi-faceted approach rather than relying on a single law or fine. He also highlighted the impact of social media on cultural norms and electoral processes, underscoring the need for balanced governance that respects digital rights while addressing security and cultural concerns.

CONCLUSION

While the $220 million fine is a notable move in Nigeria’s efforts to enforce data privacy, it remains to be seen whether it will drive substantial change in Meta’s practices. The real challenge lies in enhancing regulatory frameworks, ensuring transparency, and building capacity to address the evolving challenges of digital governance.

Senator Nicholas Tofowomo, a prominent PDP Chieftain and ally of former Ondo State Governor Olusegun Mimiko, has declared his intention to stay in the PDP and support the party’s governorship candidate, Agboola Ajayi, despite the recent defection of several party members to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Tofowomo, who previously represented Ondo South Senatorial District, made this statement during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Okitipupa. He expressed his gratitude to Mimiko and the PDP for the opportunities they provided him, including his service as Commissioner for Transportation and later as a senator.

While acknowledging the departure of notable PDP figures to APC, including former PDP Chairman Ebenezer Alabi and several former legislators, Tofowomo emphasized that his loyalty to Mimiko and the party remains steadfast. He attributed his decision to his long-term political philosophy and his commitment to the PDP’s principles.

Tofowomo stated, “I owe Mimiko and the PDP a lot for the opportunities they gave me. My story would be incomplete without the former governor’s support.” He added that his motivations are not driven by material gain but by a sense of fulfillment from his past roles.

He wished his former colleagues success in their new party and affirmed his dedication to working with Agboola Ajayi to achieve victory in the upcoming governorship election on November 16.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has stated that it is not bound by the Rivers High Court judgment that reinstated the dissolved Chief Emeka Beke-led State Executive Committee, as it was not a party to the suit.

Festus Fuanter, the APC Deputy National Secretary, made this assertion while addressing journalists in Abuja. He explained that the court ruling in Suit No: PHC 3592 CS. 2023, which dismissed the Tony Okocha-led Caretaker Committee and reinstated Beke, did not involve the APC itself as a party, but rather its national chairman and national secretary.

Fuanter noted that Beke had previously been removed by another court and had filed an appeal, but opted to proceed with actions perceived as an abuse of court processes instead of waiting for the appeal’s outcome. He emphasized that the APC only recognizes the Tony Okocha-led Caretaker Committee as the legitimate body overseeing the party’s affairs in Rivers State.

Additionally, he confirmed that the APC National Working Committee (NWC) has scheduled its National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting for September 12, pending approval from President Bola Tinubu, the party’s national leader. The APC Caucus is set to meet on September 11 to discuss the matter before the NEC meeting.

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has reported the seizure of 6,975.6 kilograms of illicit drugs in Plateau State over the past two years. The drugs confiscated include cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine.

NDLEA Chairman Brig.-Gen. Buba Marwa (retd) revealed these figures during a meeting with Governor Caleb Mutfwang in Abuja. The operation led to the arrest of 1,720 suspects, with 156 already convicted and others still undergoing trial.

Marwa praised Governor Mutfwang for his dedication to maintaining peace and security in Plateau State. He urged the governor to support the establishment of a standard rehabilitation center and to set up drug control committees at various levels to bolster the agency’s drug demand reduction efforts. Additionally, he recommended the adoption of drug testing policies in schools, homes, and communities across the state.

Governor Mutfwang commended Marwa for his leadership and the improved performance of the NDLEA since Marwa’s appointment in 2021. He acknowledged the negative impact of substance abuse and illegal drug trading on the state and expressed a commitment to enhancing collaboration with the NDLEA to address these issues.

Both the NDLEA and the Plateau State government agreed to strengthen their cooperation to combat substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking more effectively.

Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has conducted a significant reshuffle of his cabinet, creating six new ministries and assigning new commissioners to various portfolios. This move comes 15 months into his administration.

The reshuffle includes the appointment of David Kalu, Dr. Uwaoma Ukandu, and Prof. Enoch Uche to the newly established Ministries of Science, Technology and Innovation, Finance, and Health, respectively. Additionally, Sunny Onwuma has been assigned to head the newly created Ministry of Labour and Productivity.

Otti has also restructured existing ministries: the Ministry of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy was separated from the Ministry of Information and Culture, with Matthew Ekwuribe as Commissioner. The Ministry of Education has been split into two separate entities—Ministry of Secondary and Basic Education and Ministry of Tertiary Education—with Goodluck Ubochi and Prof. Uche Eme Uche, respectively.

Further changes include the creation of the Ministry of Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection from the Ministry of Women Affairs, with Dr. Maureen Aghukwa appointed as Commissioner. The Ministry of Trade, Commerce and Industry has been divided into the Ministry of Trade and Commerce and Ministry of Industry, Small and Medium Enterprises, with Kingsley Nwokocha and Mike Akpara leading the new ministries.

Dr. Chimezie Ukaegbu, previously Commissioner for Trade, Commerce and Industry, has been reassigned to the Ministry of Transport.

The Ministry of Agriculture remains without a Commissioner following Prof. Monica Ironkwe’s resignation on July 16.

Vice President Kashim Shettima has downplayed the significance of President Bola Tinubu’s residence in Bourdillon, Lagos, claiming his own house in Maiduguri is superior. Speaking at the launch of Navigating the Politics of Universal Education Policies in Nigeria by Prof. Modupe Adelabu, Shettima urged Nigerians to focus on supporting the President’s efforts to address the nation’s challenges rather than dwelling on past issues or the President’s personal lifestyle.

Shettima praised Tinubu for his commitment to improving the nation and noted his modest lifestyle, including his preference for simple meals and limited personal possessions. He described Tinubu as a leader with integrity and a strong will to implement necessary reforms despite facing substantial criticism.

Highlighting Tinubu’s recent decisions, Shettima emphasized that the Nigerian economy is on the path to recovery, citing increased oil exports and a stabilizing Naira. He called for unity and support for the President’s policies, which are aimed at long-term improvements in Nigeria’s economic and social landscape.

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has issued a stern warning to newly appointed Mandate Secretary, Youth Development Secretariat, and Permanent Secretaries, insisting that excuses for failures will not be tolerated. During their inauguration in Abuja on Thursday, Wike emphasized the need for accountability and advised those who feel incapable of delivering to resign.

Among those inaugurated were Abdullahi Ango as the pioneer Mandate Secretary, Youth Development Secretariat, and Permanent Secretaries Joy Okeke from the South East, Rotimi Ajayi from the South West, and Nancy Nathan from the North East. Gardiya Bawa was also inaugurated as Solicitor General/Permanent Secretary for the Legal Services Secretariat of the FCTA.

Wike stressed that appointees must work diligently and account for every assignment given to them. He specifically urged Ango to focus on youth development and entrepreneurship to mitigate the impact of the current economic downturn. Wike’s message to the Permanent Secretaries was clear: commitment and hard work are essential, and those lacking the capacity should resign to avoid leaving office without achieving their potential.

In Ondo State’s Ilaje Local Government Area, a brewing crisis over the installation of a new traditional ruler in the Ereke community has prompted calls for respect for judicial authority. Residents and local chieftains are urging Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to honor a court order that restrains the state government from proceeding with the installation.

The conflict centers around a long-standing legal dispute between the Olikan of Etikan Kingdom and the Amapetu of Mahin Kingdom. On July 1, 2024, Justice D.I. Kolawole of an Akure High Court ruled to stay the presentation of a staff of office to the Oba-elect of Ereke. The court’s decision was meant to prevent any actions that could exacerbate tensions between the two factions.

Despite this ruling, there are reports of plans to install the new monarch on August 16, 2024. Chief Monday Oyetakin and High Chief Bode Ojabogun, representing the Council of Elders, youths, and residents, have issued a statement urging the government to avoid actions that could lead to further conflict.

The statement highlights the need for adherence to the court’s orders to maintain peace and stability in the community. It emphasizes that any deviation from the judicial ruling could undermine the integrity of the judicial system and potentially ignite further unrest.

The elders’ plea reflects broader concerns about the importance of respecting legal decisions and the potential consequences of ignoring such orders in volatile situations.

Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed has expressed strong confidence that former President Goodluck Jonathan would outperform the current President Bola Tinubu if given another chance to lead Nigeria.

Speaking on August 15, 2024, Governor Mohammed praised Jonathan’s previous administration, highlighting significant reforms and achievements. He emphasized Jonathan’s experience and inclusive leadership style, which he believes would lead to better economic and social outcomes compared to the current administration.

Mohammed pointed out that Jonathan’s tenure saw significant developments, including improvements in infrastructure and social initiatives. He also praised past leaders, including President Olusegun Obasanjo, for their contributions to telecommunications, agriculture, and infrastructure.

Addressing a call from a non-governmental organization for him to consider running for president in 2027, Mohammed affirmed his readiness for leadership roles but expressed his preference for supporting Jonathan if the former president decides to run. He stated, “If we can persuade him to come forward, I will support him with my blood.” Mohammed highlighted Jonathan’s inclusive approach to governance and his efforts in addressing critical issues like unemployment and the Almajiri system.

Regarding his recent criticisms of President Tinubu, Mohammed reiterated that his comments were intended as constructive advice. He stressed that such criticism is part of his role as a leader and that all leaders have their lapses. Mohammed also warned that the Tinubu administration must address key issues like inflation and economic hardship or risk losing its bid for a second term.

In conclusion, Governor Mohammed emphasized the need for effective leadership that addresses the real concerns of Nigerians, including food security and economic stability.

Senator Oluremi Tinubu, the First Lady of Nigeria, announced that 37,000 women across the country would benefit from the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) recapitalisation grant. This initiative aims to support women in petty trading and promote economic empowerment.

The announcement was made on August 15, 2024, in Makurdi during a symbolic presentation of food items to internally displaced persons (IDPs), persons with disabilities, and other vulnerable groups. The distribution was part of the “Food Outreach Scheme,” a social investment program under the RHI.

Represented by Mrs. Nana Shettima, the wife of the Vice President, Mrs. Tinubu revealed that 1,000 women from each of Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) would receive a ₦50,000 grant to support their businesses. This program is set to launch on August 22, 2024, simultaneously across the country.

The First Lady emphasized that the initiative aims to support the underprivileged and contribute to the country’s food security and sufficiency goals. She encouraged beneficiaries to make the most of the support provided.

Governor Hyacient Alia of Benue State, represented by his deputy, Sam Ode, commended the First Lady for her support and pledged to augment the distribution to the most vulnerable in the state. Mrs. Scholastica Sor, Special Adviser to the Governor on Women Affairs, highlighted that Benue State has received significant support from the RHI and anticipated further assistance, including an agriculture program benefiting over 200 women.

The event’s high point was the symbolic presentation of food items to the governor by the First Lady, reflecting the RHI’s commitment to improving the lives of the underprivileged.

Nonye Ezeayaeche, a 105-year-old veteran politician and activist, has called on President Bola Tinubu to prioritize tackling hunger and inequality in Nigeria. Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on August 15, 2024, Ezeayaeche, who was the oldest presidential aspirant in the 2023 General Elections under the African Action Congress, urged the Tinubu administration to take concrete actions to address these pressing issues.

Ezeayaeche emphasized the need to respect freedom of speech and the right to protest, as guaranteed by constitutions, including Nigeria’s. She highlighted the ongoing hunger and unrest despite previous protests and urged the government to address the demands of Nigerian youths who have voiced their concerns during demonstrations against poor governance and hunger.

“Mr. President, hunger persists in spite of the protests. Please take concrete action, and address the agitation, demands, and requests,” Ezeayaeche said, stressing the importance of ensuring everyone’s rights are respected to foster peace.

The centenarian, affectionately known as the “great, great, great grandma of Africa,” also condemned the exploitation of protests by elements seeking to cause destruction and effect regime change. She recommended compensating families of victims from the protests, establishing monitoring groups to ensure government programs benefit the grassroots, and combating corruption.

Ezeayaeche further advised the government to provide equal opportunities and benefits to all Nigerians, regardless of their background, and to punish wealthy individuals who commit crimes while avoiding ethnic marginalization.

A housemaid accidentally set her employer’s four-bedroom apartment on fire in Ilorin on Thursday, August 15, 2024. The fire broke out at approximately 10:42 a.m. at No. 6, Phase 1, off Baba-Soja Street, Akerebiata, Ilorin East Local Government Area of Kwara State.

The incident occurred when the maid attempted to light the gas cooker while the kitchen was already filled with liquefied gas. The repeated attempts to strike matches resulted in an explosion and subsequent fire that severely damaged the apartment.

According to Hassan Adekunle, Head of Media and Publicity at Kwara Fire Service, the housemaid was caught in the fire but fortunately was unharmed. Firefighters responded promptly and managed to extinguish the blaze, preventing it from spreading to nearby buildings.

Prince Falade John, Director of Kwara Fire Service, has expressed sympathy to those affected and stressed the importance of safety precautions, particularly emphasizing the need to strike matches before turning on gas appliances to prevent similar incidents in the future.

The Federal Government of Nigeria has labeled the recent move by Chinese firm Zhongshan Fucheng Industrial Investment Co. Limited to seize three presidential jets as “fraudulent.” The judgement was granted by a court in Paris, which allowed Zhongshan to seize the jets as security for a $74.5 million compensation claim against the Ogun State government.

The dispute between Ogun State and Zhongshan began in 2015 after Ogun State revoked the Chinese company’s contract to manage a free-trade zone. Zhongshan subsequently initiated arbitration under the bilateral investment treaty between Nigeria and China, which resulted in the March 2021 ruling favoring the company. Despite this, the Federal Government argues that the Chinese firm is using underhanded tactics to target Nigerian assets not related to the contract dispute.

Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga criticized Zhongshan for attempting to “strip” Nigeria of its offshore assets using what he called “subterfuge.” He accused the firm of misleading the Paris court and obtaining orders without proper notice to Nigerian authorities. Onanuga also emphasized that the jets, being sovereign assets, should be protected from such legal actions.

The Nigerian government is working with Ogun State to address the issue and ensure the protection of national assets from what it describes as “predators and shylocks” masquerading as investors.

Peter Obi, the Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections, has made a move to reconcile the iconic music duo P-Square by visiting Peter Okoye, also known as Mr P. The visit, which occurred on August 15, 2024, was aimed at mending the rift between the P-Square brothers, who have once again split due to recent disagreements.

A photo of Obi conversing with Mr P at his residence surfaced online, signaling his continued efforts to heal the divide within the group. This visit follows Obi’s earlier meeting with the other half of P-Square, Paul Okoye, also known as Rudeboy.

The brothers, alongside their older sibling Jude Okoye, have recently made headlines for negative reasons. Their social media posts have hinted at significant discord, with accusations flying between them. Paul Okoye has publicly confirmed the latest split, alleging that his twin brother set him up for arrest by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). However, Peter Okoye has denied these claims and accused Jude Okoye of misappropriating funds.

P-Square’s history of conflict dates back to September 2017 when Peter Okoye announced his departure from the group due to ongoing disputes. Following the split, Peter adopted the stage name Mr. P, while Paul performed as Rudeboy. Despite their solo successes, the brothers reunited in 2021, releasing new tracks and hinting at a potential new album.

Peter Obi’s intervention reflects his commitment to resolving high-profile disputes and restoring unity within the celebrated music duo.

The official account of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter, has vanished, leaving many Nigerians puzzled. The account, which had over two million followers, now displays a message: “The term you entered did not bring up any results. Please try again later.”

The disappearance of the EFCC’s X account has raised concerns that it may be the result of hacking attempts. Efforts to contact Dele Oyewale, the EFCC spokesperson, for comments have been unsuccessful, adding to the uncertainty surrounding the issue.

The EFCC’s X handle was a crucial source of updates on Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts, featuring statements from the commission’s chair, details of operations against suspected fraudsters, and reports on the interrogation of politically exposed individuals.

This incident has drawn attention to past cyberattacks on Nigerian institutions. During the 2020 #EndSARS protests, entities such as the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) were targeted by cyberattacks. In August 2023, the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) had already raised alarms about hackers targeting Nigeria’s critical digital infrastructure.

While the EFCC’s website and other social media platforms remain operational, the disappearance of their X account suggests a potential issue specific to the platform.