In a show of support, former Nigerian Presidents Muhammadu Buhari and Goodluck Jonathan, along with other former presidents who attended virtually, passed a vote of confidence in President Bola Tinubu during a Council of State meeting held on Tuesday. The meeting, which took place in Abuja, also saw the participation of governors and key ministers.

Dele Alake, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, briefed the press afterward, highlighting that the Council discussed various national issues, including the progress made by different ministries. Ministers from Solid Minerals, Finance, Trade and Investment, Budget, Agriculture, Works, and the Attorney General’s office presented updates on their respective roadmaps, achievements, challenges, and prospects. These presentations were well-received by the Council members.

Alake noted that the Council also addressed recent nationwide protests, describing them as attempts to change the government by force. The Council expressed gratitude to Nigerians for resisting such unconstitutional moves, reaffirming that any change of government must occur through democratic elections.

Nuhu Ribadu, the National Security Adviser, provided a briefing on the country’s security situation, assuring the Council of the readiness of security agencies to protect Nigeria’s democracy and territorial integrity.

Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara, who also serves as Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), stated that the governors, like the Council of State members, passed a unanimous vote of confidence in President Tinubu.

Wale Edun, the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, reported on the progress of the administration’s macroeconomic policies, noting that the economy is showing signs of growth, with improvements in trade balance, currency stability, and inflation rates. Edun emphasized the continued implementation of measures to alleviate the high cost of living and support various sectors of the economy, expressing an optimistic outlook for Nigeria’s economic future.

In a significant move, key stakeholders within the All Progressives Congress (APC) have called on President Bola Tinubu to urgently dismiss the heads of Nigeria’s major oil and gas regulatory bodies. This demand, made by the Tinubu Legacy Coalition (TLC), a group of prominent APC members, comes in response to what they describe as gross mismanagement and corruption that have crippled the nation’s oil and gas sector.

The group, in a letter signed by over 100 stakeholders, including Hon. Bala Abu, Dr. Jeremiah Okino, and Comrade Gabriel Gbana, urged President Tinubu to sack Mele Kyari, Group CEO of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL); Gbenga Komolafe, Chief Executive of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC); and Farouk Ahmed, Chief Executive of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA). They argued that the continued tenure of these officials is damaging the image of Tinubu’s administration.

The letter pointed to numerous challenges plaguing the oil and gas sector, including persistent fuel scarcity, rampant pipeline vandalism, and widespread oil theft, which have led to a decline in the sector’s contribution to Nigeria’s GDP and tarnished the country’s international reputation. The stakeholders also criticized the lack of transparency and accountability in the sector, which they claim has allowed corruption to flourish, resulting in significant financial losses.

Specific allegations were made against each official: Ahmed was accused of granting indiscriminate import licenses that led to the importation of high-sulfur diesel, posing health risks to Nigerians; Kyari was criticized for his handling of recurring fuel scarcity and pipeline vandalism; and Komolafe was blamed for failing to curb corruption and enhance transparency within the NUPRC.

The APC stakeholders emphasized that removing these officials is essential to restoring public confidence in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector and to support Tinubu’s administration in achieving its economic goals. As pressure mounts, attention now turns to whether President Tinubu will heed the call of his party’s stakeholders and initiate a much-needed overhaul of the sector’s leadership.

As the Edo State gubernatorial election approaches in September, the newly appointed Commissioner of Police, Nemi Edwin-Iwo, has been urged to maintain impartiality and uphold the highest standards of integrity in his role. The call for fairness comes amid rising political tensions and concerns about potential unrest during the election period.

The Young Edo Professionals Group, in a statement released by its coordinator, Ojieh Ejehi, emphasized the critical importance of a neutral stance in law enforcement to ensure a just and secure electoral environment. The group specifically requested a transparent investigation into a recent violent incident on Airport Road, which resulted in the death of a police inspector, reportedly instigated by APC youths.

The group cautioned Commissioner Edwin-Iwo against any form of bias or political influence, warning that such actions could undermine the democratic process and lead to further violence. As the state prepares for what is expected to be a highly contested election, the integrity and professionalism of law enforcement will be crucial in maintaining peace and order.

The Coalition for Human Rights Advocacy in Africa (CHRADA) has issued a strong condemnation of the recent violent attack on the Action People’s Party (APP) office in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, labeling it as a potential crime against humanity. The attack, reportedly carried out by a group loyal to former Governor Nyesom Wike, involved the use of explosives, causing significant damage to the building, though no lives were lost.

In a statement signed by Dr. Joyce Anderson Idakwo, CHRADA expressed deep concern over the escalating violence in Rivers State, warning that if left unchecked, it could destabilize the oil-rich Niger Delta region. The organization emphasized that the attack represents a “blatant disregard for human life” and violates international law.

CHRADA has called for the immediate prosecution of those responsible for the attack, suggesting that the perpetrators could face charges at the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague. The group also urged the Nigerian government to take decisive action to protect its citizens and prevent further violence. Additionally, CHRADA appealed to the international community for support in bringing the culprits to justice, criticizing the lack of prosecution under the current administration as a “dangerous low” for President Bola Tinubu’s government.

The Nigerian House of Representatives has introduced the Counter Subversion Bill 2024, which proposes severe penalties for actions perceived as disrespectful to national symbols and sovereignty. Sponsored by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, the bill includes a ₦5 million fine or a 10-year prison sentence for individuals who refuse to recite the national anthem.

The bill also targets those who destroy national symbols, deface places of worship with the intent to incite violence, or pledge loyalty to organizations that disregard Nigeria’s sovereignty, imposing fines and prison sentences for such offenses. Additionally, it criminalizes actions like setting up illegal roadblocks, unauthorized traffic duties, and organizing unlawful processions, with penalties including fines of up to ₦2 million and up to five years in prison.

This proposed legislation comes in the wake of President Bola Tinubu’s re-adoption of Nigeria’s old national anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” emphasizing a renewed focus on national unity and identity.

Fagbemi Applauds Tinubu, National Assembly for Salary Increase for Judicial Officers.

The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, has praised President Bola Tinubu and the National Assembly for approving an increase in the salaries of judicial officers. Fagbemi commended Tinubu for signing the Judicial Office Holders Salaries and Allowances Bill, 2024, marking a significant improvement in the conditions of service for Nigeria’s judicial officers, who had not seen a salary adjustment in nearly two decades. He also thanked the 10th National Assembly for their swift action on the bill, highlighting it as a crucial step towards broader judicial reforms.

Army Launches Toll-Free Line 08000020204 for Reporting Security Issues in Kaduna, Niger, Kano, and Jigawa

The 1 Division of the Nigerian Army has introduced a toll-free hotline, 08000020204, to enhance security in Kaduna, Niger, Kano, and Jigawa states. The initiative, announced by Lt. Col. Musa Yahaya, aims to facilitate reporting of emergencies and security concerns, including activities of terrorists, insurgents, and bandits. Calls and messages to the hotline are confidential and free of charge, with promises of protection for informants.

Ogun Govt to Offer N10 Million Grants and Interest-Free Loans to Empower Youths.

The Ogun State government is launching the Ogun Youth Empowerment and Entrepreneurial Programme, offering grants ranging from N500,000 to N10 million and interest-free digital loans to business-minded youths. Governor Dapo Abiodun announced the initiative during the Remo International Youth Day at Christ Apostolic Grammar School, Iperu-Remo.

The program aims to support young entrepreneurs with financial resources for business expansion and provide digital and vocational training. Additionally, Ogun State will soon start harvesting rice planted three months ago and will introduce the Ogun Youth Agricultural Programme, leveraging the Soilless Farm Laboratory in Awowo.

Commissioner for Sports Development, Hon. Wasiu Isiaka, praised the initiative and highlighted its impact on youths in the state. Oba Babatunde Ajayi of Remoland, represented by Oba Sikiru Adeyiga, encouraged youths to seize agricultural opportunities and called for government support in providing necessary equipment.

FG Targets 6,000 Megawatts Power Generation by Year-End, Says Minister Bayo Adelabu

The Minister of Power, Chief Bayo Adelabu, announced that the Federal Government aims to generate at least 6,000 megawatts of power before the end of 2024. Speaking during a visit to the Calabar Power Plant of the Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC), Adelabu highlighted the government’s progress in increasing power output from less than 3,000 megawatts last year. He noted that the Calabar plant, with a capacity of 625 megawatts, is now operationally enhanced, contributing significantly to power generation in the Southeast and South-South regions.

The minister emphasized ongoing reforms in the power sector to ensure stability and meet rising energy demands. He also mentioned that the proposed privatization of the plant to Cross River State is under review by relevant councils.

Council of State Issues Vote of Confidence in President Tinubu, Condemns #EndBadGovernance Protests.

President Bola Tinubu received a vote of confidence from the Council of State, which includes former Presidents, past Heads of State, and former Chief Justices. The meeting, held on Tuesday, was the first presided over by Tinubu since he took office. The Council condemned the recent #EndBadGovernance protests, with Minister of Solid Minerals Development Dele Alake accusing the protests of having sinister motives and alleging attempts to instigate a change in government. Notable attendees included former Presidents Goodluck Jonathan and Muhammadu Buhari, while Yakubu Gowon and Abdulsalami Abubakar joined virtually. Ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo did not participate in the meeting.