The Federal Government has heeded the call from Obong of Calabar, Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi Otu v, who pleaded that the construction of the Lagos-Calabar coastal highway should commence simultaneously from both ends of Calabar and Lagos.

The Obong in addressing journalists in his palace last week said it would abridge the project delivery time and the risks of inflation.

He had also called on the government to hire many competent engineers and contractors to handle the project to enable swift completion.

The Minister of works, David Umahi announced yesterday that the construction will start from Calabar and Akwa Ibom ends simultaneously and immediately on section three of the coastal highway.

He also disclosed that section four will commence from Akwa Ibom at the same time, pending the completion of the procurement process.

Umahi spoke during a meeting with representatives from communities along the road’s alignment between Eko Atlantic (Chainage Zero) and Eleko (Chainage 47.4 km) in Lagos.

“Let me announce also that Mr President has directed that section three that is starting from Calabar and section four that is starting from Akwa Ibom should commence immediately; and so, we are in the process of concluding the procurement.

“And for those who have been saying why not start these roads in Calabar, one, the zero point is Lagos and what wrong has Lagos done to these people?

“However, an impartial President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Sen. Bola Tinubu, has directed that section three and four be started from the end of the project. So while this is moving, the other one will be moving.

“I’m sure that sections five and six will also start in places like Port Harcourt and Bayelsa,” Umahi said.

“Cross River Governor Urges NBC Action to Prevent Bloodshed Amid Boundary Disputes”

Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State has made a fervent plea to the National Boundary Commission (NBC) to take decisive steps in resolving boundary disputes to avert further violence. His call comes in the wake of recent clashes between communities in Arochukwu LGA of Abia State and Odukpani LGA of Cross River State, triggered by conflicts over limestone deposits situated on the border.

In a bid to address these pressing concerns, a delegation from the NBC, headed by Director-General Surveyor Adamu Adaji, paid a visit to the state, where they were received by the governor’s representative, Deputy Governor Peter Odey. During the meeting, Governor Otu’s deputy emphasized the need for the NBC to revisit historical boundary demarcations, which were originally established during the colonial era for economic gains rather than the well-being of the populace.

Peter Odey, who also chairs the State Boundary Committee, stressed the importance of developing new mapping techniques and strategies to accurately delineate state and interstate boundaries. He highlighted the devastating consequences of boundary disputes, which often result in loss of lives and destruction of property, and urged for proactive measures to prevent further conflicts.

Odey presented the Director-General with a comprehensive overview of the boundary issues affecting Cross River State, particularly focusing on the Nigeria-Cameroon international boundary and interstate disputes. He pledged the state’s full cooperation with the NBC to achieve lasting peace and stability in the region.

Responding to the governor’s concerns, Surveyor Adamu Adaji reiterated the significance of clearly defined boundaries in promoting peaceful coexistence and cross-border cooperation. He acknowledged the challenges posed by demographic changes and climate variability, which intensify competition for land, water, and grazing rights, further exacerbating boundary tensions.

Adaji appealed to the Cross River State government to actively support the efforts of the State Boundary Committee and participate in collaborative initiatives aimed at resolving disputes amicably. The engagement between the NBC and the state government reflects a shared commitment to address boundary challenges and mitigate the risk of violence, ultimately fostering harmony and development in the region.

Deputy Inspector General of Police in charge of South-South and Head of Department of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in the country, DIG Sokari Pedro has said that in comparison with other South-South states, crime rate in Cross River State is very low.

He stated this when he paid a courtesy visit to the state governor, Senator Bassey Otu in Calabar.

He said the assessment was according to the security reports at their disposal.

The DIG explained that the reduction in crime rate in the state was as a result of the support they received from the state government to fight crime.

He encouraged the state not to relent.

“Our men have inundated us with the present administration’s steadfast support for the smooth operations of operating security in the State. We urge you not to relent in this regard to sustain the current tempo,” he said.

Pedro disclosed that the essence of his visit was to have a first-hand experience of how police personnel were fairing in the state, and to boost their morale.

He also stated that part of his visit was to remind his officers of the need to always adhere to their professional ethics as officers of the law.

Welcoming him, Governor Bassey Otu represented by his deputy, Peter Odey restated his administration’s commitment to supporting security agencies to exterminate the remaining small pockets of crime in the State.

He applauded the collaborative efforts of the Police and other security agencies in combating crime and insecurity in the State.

Otu assured the police and other sister agencies of his administration’s readiness to support them with Hi-Tech facilities and basic technology that would enhance the fight against crime in the Cross River.

“I want to thank you and your team for making time to visit the state. We are happy that you came.

“Let me also thank the Commissioner of Police, CP Gyogon Augustine Grimah and his men for the tremendous work they are doing in the State. Because of them we can sleep with our eyes closed. They have reduced crime to the barest minimum.

“Today, crime has become impossible to fight without the use of modern technology.

“We’ll do more for the police and her sister security agencies to ensure that we put to rest all the security challenges in the state,” he stated.

There is a heavy presence of military personnel at the Nasarawa Emir’s Rest House in Kano State, where the dethroned Emir Aminu Ado Bayero was lodged after he was brought into the state.

DAILY POST correspondent, who sighted the heavy presence of the military, understands that they are there as a backup security after an arrest directive was slammed on the deposed Emir by Governor Abba Yusuf.

Governor Yusuf had directed security agencies, to as matter of urgency, arrest and detain the dethroned Emir for violating his orders to vacate the seat and the state in the last 48 hours.

The entrance of the Nasarawa Emir’s Rest House where the dethroned Emir Bayero is staying was seen filled with combined security operatives.

This has heightened tension in the state.

Joint security agencies, under the leadership of the Kano Police Commissioner, Muhammad Usaini Gumel, have said they will obey the court order issued by a Federal High Court stopping the Kano State government from reinstating Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II.

The Police Commissioner, Muhammad Usaini Gumel, alongside other top security officers of the military, the DSS and others, warned that they would not allow anybody to break peace and unity of the State using what is happening in the Emirate Council.

He said, “our joint security resolved to keep peace in Kano, and the development surrounding the Emirates Council; the Police Command respects the court order, alongside other security agencies and we have resolved to ensure that we keep peace in the state.”

He said the order of arresting the dethroned Emir Bayero has not been transmitted to the police command as they only read it on social media.

He added that they would not be compelled by anybody to carry out any assignment.

“As far as the situation of the Emirate is concerned, we recognize the Emir who was there as stated by the Court, and we are only respecting Court orders which says status quo should be maintained and that is where we stay and stand,” he added.

The Police Commissioner added that, “the position of law is very clear that whoever tries to cause problems will be arrested without hesitation.

“Miscreants are are advised to stay away from causing havoc in the State, as the safety of the people remain sacrosanct.”

A human rights lawyer, Inibehe Effiong has cautioned the federal government about interfering in the Kano Emirship struggle.

Effiong specifically said that the central government has no authority to appoint or enthrone anyone as Emir.

DAILY POST reported the reinstatement of Alhaji Muhammadu Sanusi II as the Emir of Kano.

This is consequent upon a bill earlier passed by the State House of Assembly on Thursday.

In a post on his X handle on Saturday, the legal expert said that President Bola Tinubu should urgently halt the reign of madness unfolding in Kano.

His statement comes after a joint team of security agencies, under the leadership of the Kano Police Commissioner, Muhammad Usaini Gumel, said they will obey the court order stopping the Kano State government from reinstating Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II.

Gumel, alongside other top security officers of the military, the DSS and others, warned that they would not allow anybody to break peace and unity of the State using what is happening in the Emirate Council.

Many observers believe that the federal government is allegedly interfering in what is supposed to be a state matter.

Before now, the Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf had ordered the immediate arrest of deposed Emir Aminu Ado Bayero.

The development followed after tension heightened over alleged forceful return of Bayero.

However, Effiong, a human rights lawyer, advised that the State should not be set on fire because of partisan politics.

He said: “The federal Government has no authority to determine Emirship dispute or to appoint or enthrone anyone as Emir.

“It is the responsibility of the King Makers and the Governor to do so.

“President Tinubu should urgently halt the reign of madness that’s unfolding in Kano.

“Do not set the state on fire because of partisan politics.”

Athletes representing Plateau State showcased their prowess and determination in the inaugural Taraba Marathon, emerging victorious in both the male and female categories. Despite facing adverse weather conditions, including an early morning downpour, the Plateau athletes demonstrated exceptional skill and resilience throughout the race.

The marathon, held in Jalingo, the capital city of Taraba State, commenced at the flyover bridge on Roadblock and traversed through various routes, including Barde Way and Bye Pass, before culminating at the Jolly Nyame Stadium. The 21-kilometer race attracted athletes from different parts of the country and served as a preparatory event for upcoming international competitions, such as the World Olympics, as stated by the Commissioner of Sports, Joseph Joshua.

Credit was given to the state governor, Agbu Kefas, for his unwavering commitment to sports development in Taraba State. Plans were revealed to renovate the Jolly Nyame Stadium, aiming to further enhance local sports activities in the region. Additionally, it was announced that the Taraba Marathon would become an annual event, attracting athletes from various regions across Nigeria.

In the men’s category, Newforth Mathias from Plateau State clinched victory with an impressive time of 1 hour, 5 minutes, and 41 seconds. Similarly, Charity Ogufure, also from Plateau State, emerged as the winner in the women’s category, completing the race in 1 hour, 12 minutes, and 22 seconds. Both athletes attributed their success to rigorous training and dedication, expressing gratitude to the Taraba State government for organizing the event and allowing athletes from other states to participate.

Despite the challenging weather conditions, the Taraba Marathon served as a platform for athletes to showcase their talent and determination. While some competitors cited the heavy rain as a hindrance to their performance, the overall spirit of sportsmanship and camaraderie prevailed throughout the event. The success of the Plateau athletes underscored the region’s commitment to sports excellence and served as an inspiration to aspiring athletes across Nigeria.

The Deputy General Manager of the Umuahia zone of the Abia State Environmental Protection Agency (ASEPA), Catechist Ambrose Jonah, has responded to reports alleging the desecration of a government mobile court in Umuahia. Jonah clarified that ASEPA officials did not sack any mobile court but rather were involved in a misunderstanding with officials from the Ministry of Environment.

According to Jonah’s statement, the incident occurred during the monthly environmental cleanup exercise for May. He explained that ASEPA officials, who were at the Ministry of Environment, were asked to leave the premises following a misunderstanding between ASEPA and Ministry officials. This misunderstanding reportedly stemmed from an agreement that all sanitation defaulters arrested by ASEPA would be prosecuted at the mobile court in the Ministry of Environment. However, this agreement was allegedly not honored by the Ministry.

Jonah emphasized that while he directed ASEPA officials to leave the Ministry premises with the hired buses, there was no invasion of the court, and no offenders were freed by ASEPA.

Further supporting Jonah’s statement, Nwagbara Macaulay, a top official of ASEPA in the Umuahia zone, stated that no sanitation offenders were released from court by ASEPA. Macaulay clarified that ASEPA lacks the authority to intervene in court proceedings and suggested that if offenders were allowed to leave with ASEPA staff, it was the Ministry’s decision.

In response to the incident, the Abia State Government urged citizens to respect the monthly sanitation exercise, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to public health. Professor Ijeoma Iheukwumere, the Special Assistant on Environment to Governor Alex Otti, stressed the importance of citizens’ participation in the cleanup exercise. Despite labeling the month’s exercise as successful, she expressed concern over the observation of some youths playing football instead of participating in the cleanup, highlighting the need for continued public awareness and participation in sanitation efforts.

Days after his disqualification from contesting the May 29 elections, former South African President Jacob Zuma lashed out at the country’s apex court judges, saying their ruling was wrong.

“I expected that from our judges, but they are definitely wrong. Not correct,” Mr Zuma said in his first interview with BBC on Thursday.

The 82-year-old politician further said the judges misinterpreted the country’s constitution by disqualifying him from the contest, adding, “I am a freedom fighter. I am going to fight it because it is unfair and undemocratic.”

“The judges of the Constitutional Court have acted very funny to me – towards me in particular,” Mr Zuma said. “They are not taking into account the will of the people of this country; they use their own will.”

The South African apex court barred Mr Zuma from running for parliament seat days before the country’s election on Monday, citing his 15-month jail sentence for contempt of court in 2021.

“It is declared that Mr Zuma was convicted of an offence and sentenced to more than 12 months’ imprisonment,… and is accordingly not eligible to be a member of, and not qualified to stand for election to, the National Assembly,” South Africa’s constitutional court said in its ruling.

In 2018, Mr Zuma was pressured to resign from his party, the ANC, over allegations of corruption. Having fallen out with his party, he floated a new party, uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK), named after the ANC’s former armed wing during Nelson Mandela’s time.

MK Party’s national secretary, Sihle Ngubane, expressed disappointment in the court judgment.

“We are disappointed about the judgement. But I’d like to emphasise this: former President Jacob Zuma will be on the ballot paper when we are going to vote. When we leave here, President Zuma will lead us on what to do,” Mr Ngubane said.

Mr Zuma’s imprisonment in 2021 triggered riots that led to the death of over 300 people in his home province of KwaZulu-Natal.

When asked if Mr Zuma’s disqualification would not trigger violence, President Cyril Ramaphosa, in an interview with local radio 702 on Monday, said, “I’m not concerned about this instigating violence.”

Mr Ramaphosa added, “We have a rule of law in South Africa that governs us. Once a constitutional court has decided, that is it, and should there be any threat of violence, our security forces are ready.”

“Katsina Grain Sellers and Consumers Advocate for Federal Government Intervention with Price Controls Amid Escalating Food Inflation Concerns”

In the face of mounting food inflation concerns, grain sellers and consumers in Katsina have united in their plea to the Federal Government (FG) for immediate intervention through the implementation of price controls. This urgent call was voiced during a comprehensive market survey conducted by journalists in collaboration with the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) on Thursday.

Aliyu Maje, the esteemed chairman of grain sellers in Katsina, emphasized the critical necessity for this intervention, highlighting its potential to alleviate the financial burdens inflicted by the relentless surge in food commodity prices. Maje attributed the unsettling spike in prices, particularly of grains, to the nefarious activities of hoarders within the state, as well as the heightened demand from neighboring countries.

Detailing the exacerbating factors, Maje revealed, “People come from Niger Republic and other neighboring countries to buy grains, paying whatever prices they are quoted. This relentless external demand has significantly contributed to the exorbitant price hikes witnessed in our markets.” He shared a distressing anecdote, recounting how the price of maize surged by over N10,000 within a week, illustrating the alarming volatility in prices.

Echoing Maje’s sentiments, Kabiru Lawal, the vice-chairman of the grain sellers association at Chake market, underscored their reluctance to incessantly raise prices. Lawal expressed hope that the government’s implementation of price controls, coupled with a vigilant monitoring committee, could help alleviate the prevailing hardships faced by both sellers and consumers.

The sentiments of distress were echoed by consumers at the Katsina Central Market, who bemoaned the profound impact of skyrocketing food prices on their livelihoods. Yahaya Mohammed, one of the concerned consumers, lamented, “This has caused untold hardship to my family immensely.”

Abdulkarim Othman-Shehu, the North-West zonal coordinator of FCCPC, reaffirmed the commission’s unwavering commitment to addressing key consumer protection and competition issues plaguing the food sector. Othman-Shehu condemned the clandestine practices of certain market participants, including conspiracy, price gouging, and hoarding, which significantly contribute to market distortions and unjustifiable price hikes.

In light of these findings, Othman-Shehu pledged the FCCPC’s dedication to compiling a comprehensive report of its inquiry and presenting actionable recommendations to the government. Furthermore, he outlined the commission’s strategic initiatives aimed at fostering market competition, curbing anti-competitive practices, and ensuring fair pricing for consumers.

Through concerted efforts and strategic interventions, stakeholders in Katsina are fervently urging the FG to implement decisive measures, including price controls, to mitigate the adverse impacts of escalating food inflation and restore stability to the market.

The National Bureau of Statistics says the average retail price of a litre of kerosene increased from N1,354.40 recorded in March 2024 to N1,439.64 in April 2024.

The bureau said this in its Kerosene Price Watch for April 2024, released in Abuja on Friday. It said the April price of N1,439.64 represented a 6.29 per cent increase compared to what was obtained in March 2024 at N1,354.40.

The report said the average price per litre of kerosene increased on a year-on-year basis by 24.04 per cent from N1,160.67 recorded in April 2023 to N1,439.64 in April 2024.

The report showed that based on state profile analysis, Benue recorded the highest average price of N1,788.47 per litre of kerosene, followed by Kaduna at N1,761.62 and Plateau at N1,717.78.

On the other hand, the lowest price was recorded in Katsina at N1,222.22, followed by Jigawa at N1,240.74 and Kwara at N1,252.38.

The NBS said the analysis further showed that the North-Central recorded the highest average retail price per litre of kerosene at N1,525.27, followed by the South-West at N1,479.24.

It said the South-East recorded the lowest average retail price per litre of kerosene at N1,391.68.

The report said the average retail price per gallon of kerosene paid by consumers in April 2024, was N5,174.23, indicating a 5.61 per cent increase from N4, 899.33 in March 2024.

On a year-on-year basis, the average price per gallon of kerosene increased by 24.17 per cent from N4,166.94 recorded in April 2023.

State profile analysis showed that Kano recorded the highest average retail price, N6,862.50, followed by Adamawa at N6,266.05 and Yobe at N6,120.41.

On the other hand, the report said Kwara recorded the lowest price at N4,226.40, followed by Delta and Akwa Ibom at N4,300.00 and N4,356.67, respectively.

Analysis by zone showed that the North-East recorded the highest average price per gallon of Kerosene, N5,922.63, followed by the North-West, N5,538.58.

The North-Central recorded the lowest average price per gallon of kerosene at N4,634.60.

he House of Representatives Committee on the National Agency for Food and Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has frowned at the agency’s director-general, Mojisola Adeyeye’s failure to implement its resolution on sachet alcohol.

The House said the action taken by NAFDAC management was disrespectful to the parliament.

The committee’s vice-chairman, Uchenna Okonkwo, said at a news conference on Friday in Abuja that the agency was duly served with the resolution.

He said that, to the committee’s greatest surprise, no action had been taken to implement the resolution.

“The agency had failed to comply with the directives two months after it was passed; you need not be told that the parliament is the centre-piece of our democracy.

“If the Nigerian parliament, which is the fulcrum and giant of African democracy, is abused in this manner, the future of not only Nigeria but also African democracy is doomed,” Mr Okonkwo said.

He said the committee regretted the sudden deteriorating mutual relationship between the agency and the parliament, which, according to him, is counter-productive to the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu.

“We view the director-general’s action as a direct affront to the rule of law and the people’s parliament.

“If this display of impunity is allowed to go through, it will set a dangerous precedent for future abuse and disregard for legislative directives,’’ he said.

The committee chairman also claimed that the NAFDAC boss’s action suggested insensitivity to the plights of Nigerians.

On March 21, the House adopted a motion sequel to the consideration of the committee on NAFDAC to suspend the ban imposed by the agency on sachet alcohol and less than 200ml pet bottles.

The House directed that the ban be lifted because of the ban’s wrong timing and the unstable state of the economy, which has a staggering unemployment rate and a soaring inflation rate.

Mr Okonkwo said the paucity of FOREX also informed the action at the time.

(NAN)