The Edo State Government has accused Comrade Philip Shaibu of impersonating Marvellous Omobayo as the deputy governor. This allegation follows a recent court decision that reinstated Shaibu as deputy governor.

According to Chris Osa Nehikhare, the state’s Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Shaibu has been engaging in correspondence claiming to be the deputy governor. The government has urged the public to disregard such communications, emphasizing that the court’s reinstatement decision is still under legal review.

Shaibu was impeached by the Edo State House of Assembly and later reinstated by a Federal High Court in Abuja on July 19. However, the state government has challenged this reinstatement, with motions filed for a stay of execution and restraining orders against Shaibu. The next hearing in the case is set for September 24.

Nehikhare warned that any further actions by Shaibu that suggest he is the deputy governor could lead to security breaches, and security agencies have been advised to hold Shaibu accountable for any such issues. The commissioner reiterated that Omobayo remains the official deputy governor and any actions by Shaibu in this capacity are considered impersonation.

On August 12, 2024, President Bola Tinubu reappointed Adamu Adaji as the Director-General of the National Boundary Commission (NBC) for a second and final four-year term. The reappointment is effective from August 7, 2024, as confirmed by Efe Ovuakporie, Head of the NBC’s Information and Public Relations Unit.

Adaji’s reappointment was communicated through a letter signed by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume. This decision is in line with the National Boundary Commission (Establishment) Act, 2006.

Adaji has been recognized for his exceptional performance and significant contributions to transforming the NBC and improving boundary management in Nigeria. His reappointment aims to expand the commission’s operations and foster peaceful boundary relations across Nigeria’s 86 interstate and international boundaries.

Adaji holds a Master of Science in Land Surveying from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, and a Master of Public Administration from the University of Maiduguri. He began his career at the NBC in 1992 and has since advanced through various roles, including Director, before becoming the substantive Director-General on August 8, 2020.

On August 12, 2024, there has been increasing pressure for Mele Kyari, the Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Limited), to step down. This demand is fueled by widespread dissatisfaction with the ongoing fuel crisis in Nigeria.

The Christian Youth Forum of Nigeria (CYFN) has expressed severe frustration over the persistent fuel shortages and escalating prices, which have reportedly surpassed 1,000 Naira per litre. They have criticized Kyari’s leadership, describing it as a “disaster” and accusing him of being involved in “economic terrorism.” Allegations include subsidy scams, the importation of substandard petroleum products, and mismanagement of the Port Harcourt Refinery.

The CYFN has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to act quickly to remove Kyari, warning of potential widespread protests if their demands are not addressed. They argue that Kyari’s continued position is an insult to the suffering masses and stress the need for a change in leadership to restore the integrity of the petroleum sector.

On August 12, 2024, the Nasarawa State House of Assembly raised a serious alarm over the escalating rate of kidnappings in the state. The Assembly convened in Lafia to address this pressing issue, with Deputy Speaker Muhammad Oyanki leading the discussion under a matter of public interest.

Key Actions and Resolutions:

1. Security Summits: Speaker Danladi Jatau directed local government council chairmen to organize security summits within two weeks. These summits will involve traditional rulers and security agencies to formulate strategies for combating the kidnapping crisis.
2. Support for Security Agencies: The Assembly commended Governor Abdullahi Sule and the security agencies for their efforts thus far but called for increased commitment and a strategic overhaul to address the rising kidnappings. They emphasized the strict enforcement of the anti-kidnapping law.
3. Public Cooperation: The Assembly urged residents to support security agencies by providing useful information to aid in tackling criminal activities. The need for public cooperation is seen as crucial in addressing the security challenges.
4. Adoption of Technology: Several Assembly members, including Luka Zhekaba and Yakubu Azara, suggested that security agencies utilize modern technology to enhance their efforts in curbing kidnapping and other violent crimes.

Community Concerns:

• Prevalence of Kidnapping: Oyanki highlighted the severe impact of kidnappings in his constituency, noting that the problem has become pervasive and is affecting the daily lives of residents. He mentioned recent kidnappings, including that of a councilor, as evidence of the urgent need for intervention.
• Insecurity and Fear: Members of the Assembly reported that constituents are living in constant fear, unable to sleep peacefully due to the threat of abduction. The Assembly’s resolution reflects a collective urgency to address this issue and restore safety in the state.

The Assembly’s actions reflect a concerted effort to address the growing security concerns in Nasarawa State and to enhance the safety and well-being of its residents.

On August 12, 2024, President Bola Tinubu inaugurated 30 hybrid CNG buses in Abuja, marking a significant step towards addressing transportation challenges in Nigeria. The buses, donated by the Depots and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria (DAPPMAN), were designed and manufactured by INNOSON Motors, a Nigerian company.

During the unveiling, Tinubu expressed his administration’s commitment to meeting Nigerians’ transportation needs, highlighting the potential of compressed natural gas (CNG) as an innovative and economic solution. He emphasized that the shift to CNG-powered vehicles represents a necessary advancement in the country’s transportation sector.

“It is a great joy for me to receive these buses on behalf of the government as they represent a significant innovation to the transportation system,” Tinubu said. He pointed out that countries like India have successfully implemented CNG for commercial vehicles, and Nigeria, with its substantial petrol demand, could benefit similarly.

The President thanked INNOSON Motors and other stakeholders for their contributions, asserting that such advancements could enhance Nigeria’s energy competitiveness and drive economic prosperity. He assured that the administration is dedicated to making further improvements in transportation and other sectors.

Mrs. Winifred Akpani, Chairman of DAPPMAN, praised the hybrid buses for their design and functionality, noting that each bus can carry up to 100 passengers and operates on both CNG and diesel. She also highlighted DAPPMAN’s commitment to providing driver training for the buses and supporting the government’s efforts to reduce transportation costs.

“This will contribute to bringing down transportation costs, and we know that if transportation costs come down, food and many other things will follow,” Akpani added.

The introduction of these CNG buses is seen as a crucial step towards modernizing Nigeria’s public transportation system and addressing the country’s high fuel costs.

The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has issued a stern warning to political leaders in the South-East of Nigeria, urging them to cease using the detention of its leader, Nnamdi Kanu, for personal or political gain. IPOB accused some Igbo politicians of collaborating with the Federal Government to keep Kanu in custody and leveraging his situation to enhance their own political influence.

In a statement released by IPOB spokesperson Emma Powerful on August 12, 2024, the group criticized those who allegedly exploit Kanu’s detention to advance their political interests, threatening to publicly expose and undermine these leaders if they do not desist. The statement read, “To those using the suffering of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu to advance their political interests should desist; otherwise, IPOB will call you out publicly and also frustrate your political interests in the South-East.”

IPOB alleged that certain politicians and their allies in Abuja are using the situation to revive their diminishing political influence in the South-East and are secretly working with the Federal Government to prolong Kanu’s detention. The group urged the public to recognize these individuals and noted that as long as Kanu remains in detention, the South-East will struggle to gain political relevance in Nigeria.

The statement also praised those genuine Igbo leaders who are actively working for Kanu’s release, encouraging them to continue their efforts. IPOB emphasized its ongoing control over the South-East and commended the region’s resilience in the face of political and economic marginalization.

Additionally, IPOB addressed the recent #EndBadGovernance protests, stating that they had advised the people of the South-East against participating to prevent further violence and repression. The group claimed that their stance helped avoid potential military intervention and civilian casualties.

Nnamdi Kanu, who leads IPOB’s push for a separatist Biafra, was re-arrested in Kenya in June 2021 after evading bail. He has been in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) since then.

Former Lagos State Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode, made a significant visit to his successor, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, at the Lagos House in Ikeja on Monday, August 12, 2024. The visit marks the first time Ambode has been publicly involved in state affairs since his one-term administration ended in May 2019.

In a tweet, Governor Sanwo-Olu shared photos of the meeting, emphasizing that their discussion focused on the future of Lagos and the importance of building on the existing foundation for the state’s continued growth and development. The meeting is seen as a possible reconciliation, indicating that any previous political rift between the two leaders might have been resolved.

Ambode had previously distanced himself from Lagos politics after his loss to Sanwo-Olu in the 2019 Lagos All Progressives Congress (APC) primary election, where he was defeated by a significant margin. The meeting is viewed as a positive step towards collaboration for the progress of Lagos State.

In a significant political shift, Alhaji Bello Layya, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Chairman of Argungu Local Government Area in Kebbi State, has defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) along with 1,500 supporters. The mass defection, which also included all the local government ward chairmen, youth and women leaders, and former House of Representatives member Garba Musa-Gulma, was officially received by Governor Nasir Idris at the APC Zonal Campaign Rally in Argungu.

Governor Idris, represented by his Deputy, Senator Umar Abubakar-Tafida, expressed his pleasure at the defection, seeing it as a testament to the trust in the APC’s leadership. He credited the party’s success to its achievements in education, healthcare, agriculture, and infrastructure within the first year of APC’s governance in the state. He urged the electorate to support the APC in the upcoming local government elections, emphasizing the importance of casting votes for continued development in the state.

The event also featured calls from other APC leaders for party loyalists to ensure a strong voter turnout. The rally marked the beginning of a zonal campaign that will extend to all levels of the community, with a strong emphasis on grassroots mobilization.

The campaign entourage paid homage to the Emir of Argungu, Alhaji Muhammadu Sama’ila-Mera, who advised politicians in the state to unite and work towards the common goals of peace and development. Governor Idris affirmed his commitment to collaborating with traditional institutions for the benefit of the state.

Jimi Lawal, a former Special Adviser to Nasir El-Rufai, the immediate past Governor of Kaduna State, is under investigation by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) over an alleged fraudulent Light Rail Project valued at ₦11 billion. The ICPC suspects the project may be non-existent despite full payment being made.

Lawal, originally from Ogun State, is being investigated for “criminal conspiracy” and improper loan procurement. The commission has requested that the Department of State Services (DSS) and Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) place him on a watchlist to prevent him from fleeing the country.

The ICPC’s investigation extends beyond Lawal, involving 20 other officials from El-Rufai’s administration and the Managing Director of a company linked to $350 million in loans for various state infrastructure projects. This inquiry is part of a broader probe into alleged financial mismanagement during El-Rufai’s tenure as governor.

In response, El-Rufai has denied the allegations, calling the investigations politically motivated and has initiated legal action to challenge a related report by the Kaduna State House of Assembly, which accused his administration of siphoning approximately ₦423 billion. The ongoing investigations and legal battles suggest that this issue will remain a focal point of public scrutiny in the coming months.

Nigeria is rapidly establishing itself as a leading provider of high-tech military hardware in Africa, according to the Federal Government. This was announced by the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, during a news conference celebrating the 60th anniversary of the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON).

Matawalle emphasized the significant advancements in DICON under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, highlighting the corporation’s transformation into a modern, capable producer of sophisticated arms and ammunition. This evolution has drawn considerable interest from other African nations, positioning Nigeria as a key player in the continent’s defence sector.

The minister noted that this growing demand from African countries could greatly boost Nigeria’s foreign exchange earnings, create jobs for skilled workers, and reduce capital flight. He also highlighted the strategic importance of DICON’s operations, with certain capabilities remaining classified for security reasons.

As Nigeria prepares to host the maiden Africa Defence Industries Conference and Exhibition in Abuja, the event will showcase the country’s expanding military hardware production capabilities to over 150 foreign nationals. Matawalle assured that DICON’s renewed focus and the new DICON Act 2023 would further contribute to Nigeria’s national security and economic growth.

The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has released the results for the 2024 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) for School Candidates. Key highlights include:

• Total Candidates Registered: 1,814,736 from 25,126 recognized secondary schools.
• Candidates Who Sat for the Exam: 1,805,216.
• Performance: 1,301,941 candidates (72.12%) obtained credits in at least five subjects, including English and Mathematics, marking a 7.69% decrease from 2023.
• Withheld Results: 215,267 results (11.92%) were withheld due to alleged malpractice, with issues like cell phone usage and organized cheating contributing to the problem.
• Special Needs Candidates: 109,115 candidates were provided with adequate support during the exam.

Candidates can check their results online and apply for their Digital Certificates, with hard copies of certificates expected within 90 days.

Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani has announced the immediate removal of the curfew imposed on Kaduna and Zaria towns, effective from August 13, 2024. The curfew, which had restricted movement from 6 pm to 8 am, was lifted following a comprehensive review by the Kaduna State Security Council.

Governor Sani, who chaired the assessment meeting leading to this decision, expressed gratitude to security agencies, religious and traditional leaders, and other stakeholders for their efforts in managing recent unrest. The lifting of the curfew marks a significant step towards restoring normalcy and allowing residents to move freely and engage in activities without restrictions.

Despite the easing of restrictions, the Security Council has issued a warning regarding unverified gatherings and processions. It emphasized that all such events must be coordinated with relevant authorities to prevent potential disruptions to public order.

“Security forces will remain vigilant and will take action against individuals or groups threatening public peace,” the Council’s statement cautioned.

Governor Sani reaffirmed his commitment to engaging with all critical stakeholders to ensure the ongoing peace, unity, and development of Kaduna State.

In response to recent unrest, the Kano State Police Command has transferred 76 individuals, including a foreign national, to the Force Headquarters in Abuja for a detailed investigation into charges of sedition. The suspects are implicated in protests across northern Nigeria, during which they were reportedly seen waving Russian flags.

The protests, initially sparked by widespread hunger and economic dissatisfaction, escalated into violence, prompting a significant law enforcement response. Kano State Commissioner of Police, Salman Garba, confirmed the transfers and highlighted the extensive efforts made by the police to manage the situation.

“In line with the directives of Inspector-General of Police Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, the Kano Command has acted diligently to address the aftermath of these protests,” Garba stated. He noted that the operations resulted in the arrest of 873 suspects and the recovery of various exhibits, including two AK-47 rifles.

The 76 suspects now in Abuja are being investigated for their alleged roles in the unrest. Garba also revealed that a foreign national among the detainees is facing additional scrutiny. Alongside the transfer of these suspects, 150 individuals have been arrested for breaching the curfew imposed during the unrest, and six are facing charges related to the destruction and looting of the Kano Printing Press.

Further actions include the prosecution of 600 individuals for offences such as criminal conspiracy, inciting disturbance, and arson. Garba commended the Kano State Police Command’s overall performance in crime prevention, citing arrests of suspected kidnappers, armed robbers, and car thieves as notable achievements.

The ongoing investigation aims to address the complexities of the protests and ensure accountability for those involved in the disturbances.

The Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria (ASCSN) has issued a strong warning to state governments that fail to implement the newly mandated ₦70,000 national minimum wage, signaling potential disruptions to state activities if compliance is not achieved. The ultimatum was announced by Shehu Muhammed, the newly elected ASCSN President, during the association’s 5th Quadrennial Delegates Conference held in Lagos.

Muhammed emphasized that there is no excuse for state governments to delay the implementation, especially in light of increased revenue from the Federal Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) following the removal of the fuel subsidy. He asserted, “For states not ready to implement the new minimum wage, let me tell you categorically, it is impossible. We are coming for them.”

The ASCSN leadership has urged state governments to prioritize the wage increase to enhance the living standards of their citizens. Muhammed advised states to focus on reducing waste and curbing financial leakages, as well as indexing income to inflation rates to ensure that the wage increase meets the needs of workers effectively.

Joshua Apebo, the ASCSN Secretary General, supported the call for immediate action, stressing that the improved FAAC allocation should facilitate the wage increase and improve the quality of life for workers.

In solidarity, Festus Osifo, President of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), endorsed ASCSN’s position, encouraging the new leadership to prioritize worker welfare and the union’s goals.

The ASCSN’s firm stance reflects a broader push by organized labor to ensure fair compensation and improved conditions for civil servants across Nigeria.

In a bid to tackle Nigeria’s youth unemployment crisis, the Bola Tinubu administration has launched the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) Programme. Announced by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, during the Nigeria Police Youth Summit in Abuja on August 12, 2024, the initiative is set to generate three million jobs for Nigerian youths.

The 3MTT Programme, spearheaded by the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Technology, seeks to equip young Nigerians with essential skills and education. The focus of the programme is to prepare youths for roles in national security intelligence, reflecting President Tinubu’s commitment to integrating youth development into the country’s broader national development strategy.

Idris, represented by Mallam Jibrin Baba Ndace, Director General of the Voice of Nigeria, highlighted the programme as a key element of the “Renewed Hope Agenda.” This agenda includes additional measures such as the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFund), designed to provide financial support to students, and the Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) policy, aimed at reducing transportation costs by up to 70%.

Idris emphasized the importance of the programme for personal and economic growth, urging Nigerian youths to fully engage with these government initiatives. He also stressed the need for moral reorientation among the youth, warning against the spread of fake news and disinformation, which he believes undermines national security and societal values.

“The 3MTT Programme is a testament to President Tinubu’s vision of leveraging youth potential to drive national progress and security,” Idris stated, reinforcing the administration’s dedication to addressing critical youth employment issues while fostering a robust national value system.

A tragic boat accident occurred in the Dundaye community of Wamakko Local Government Area (LGA) in Sokoto State, resulting in the deaths of four individuals. The incident, which happened on the evening of August 11, 2024, involved a boat carrying 24 people. As of August 13, 2024, rescue operations have successfully recovered four bodies, and 19 survivors have been accounted for.

Alhaji Aliyu Kafindangi, Head of the Sokoto Field Operation Office of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), confirmed the details to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN). According to Kafindangi, the rescue efforts have been carried out by a combined team from NEMA, the Nigerian Red Cross, Fire Services, the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), and local divers.

“One body was recovered on Sunday, and three more were found on Monday, bringing the total number of fatalities to four. We are still searching for one missing person,” Kafindangi said.

The official expressed gratitude to the state and local governments, as well as community members, for their assistance in the ongoing search and rescue efforts. The focus now remains on locating the missing person and ensuring that all necessary support is provided to the affected families.

On August 13, 2024, the Federal Government made a significant contribution to healthcare in Osun State by donating multimillion-naira worth of medical equipment to the Ijebu-Jesa General Hospital in Oriade Local Government Area. The donation, which is part of President Bola Tinubu’s ‘Renewed Hope Health Intervention’ programme, was facilitated through the National Lottery Trust Fund (NLTF).

The medical equipment provided includes:

• One X-ray mobile machine
• Four infant incubators
• Three hematocrit centrifuges
• Ten suction machines
• Five autoclaves
• Three defibrillators
• Two electrophoretic tanks/machines
• Two physiotherapy equipment
• Two ENT diagnostic sets
• Ten sphygmomanometers (both digital and manual)
• Three cesarean section instruments

Tosin Adeyanju, the Executive Secretary/Chief Executive Officer of NLTF, highlighted the donation as a crucial part of the health intervention program aimed at improving healthcare services and saving lives. Adeyanju emphasized that the equipment would enhance the quality of care at the Ijebu-Jesa General Hospital and expressed hope that it would be used to benefit the community.

Community leaders, including Olugbenga Abudiore, President of the Ijebu-Jesa Union’s Conference, and Oba Taiwo Aribisiala, the Elegboro of Ijebu-Jesa, expressed their gratitude for the donation. They assured that the equipment would be well-maintained and utilized effectively. However, Oba Aribisiala also requested additional support from the federal government in the form of medical personnel and security to ensure the equipment’s proper use and safety.

The donation is part of a broader effort by the NLTF to support health interventions funded by lottery revenues, aiming to address critical needs in various communities across Nigeria.

Dr. Ayodele Festus Olorunfemi, the Labour Party (LP) candidate for the upcoming Ondo State governorship election, has pledged to eradicate corruption in public offices if he wins the election. In a recent interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Olorunfemi emphasized his commitment to zero tolerance for corruption and the mismanagement of public funds.

Olorunfemi criticized the current state of public governance, attributing widespread poverty and dissatisfaction among the populace to corruption and bribery. He stressed that his administration would implement stringent measures to combat these issues, promising a robust accountability system and transparency in public procurement processes.

“I am determined to end corruption in Ondo State,” Olorunfemi stated. “Corruption is the root cause of the difficulties faced by the masses, and it is our duty to eradicate it to ensure that state resources are used for the benefit of all.”

The LP candidate also drew parallels with Governor Alex Otti of Abia State, highlighting Otti’s success in managing state resources effectively and asserting that his own administration would follow a similar path of integrity and accountability.

Olorunfemi’s campaign comes as one of 17 contenders for the governorship seat in the November 16 election, with his focus on reforming governance to bridge the gap between the rich and poor in Ondo State.