Minister of Works, David Umahi, has given the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) an October deadline to complete the collapsed New Artisan Bridge on the Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway. This directive was disclosed in a statement by Uche Anichukwu, the Senior Special Assistant on External Relations to Governor Peter Mbah, and was made available to the press in Enugu on Monday.

Umahi, along with Governor Mbah, inspected several key Federal Government projects in the state, during which Umahi emphasized the urgency and importance of the bridge project. He expressed satisfaction with the quality and speed of CCECC’s work and stated that this aligns with the governor’s expectations.

“I have been here more than 10 times since the collapse of the bridge. The governor went to see Mr. President, who directed immediate work on the bridge. This work is being done by CCECC. I must commend them very highly for their quality of work and speed. This is the speed that the Enugu governor desires and he is also very happy with this. I am giving them October 2024 to deliver this project,” Umahi said.

Furthermore, Umahi indicated that due to a lack of funds, the Federal Government would permit the Enugu State Government to complete the remaining part of the 61km road, starting from Naira Triangle, under the Federal Government’s Highway Development Management Initiative. This initiative will be executed through a Public-Private Partnership arrangement.

Umahi praised Governor Mbah for his strategic efforts and partnership with President Bola Tinubu’s administration to enhance infrastructure development in the state. Anichukwu also noted that Umahi reaffirmed his commitment to completing the remaining sections of the Enugu-Onitsha and Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway, as well as the dualization of the Enugu-Abakaliki Road.

Governor Mbah commended the Federal Government’s dedication to addressing road infrastructure challenges in the South-East, highlighting the positive impact of such initiatives on the region.

Nigerian Breweries Plc, through the Felix Ohiwerei Education Trust Fund, has donated an e-learning laboratory to the BioMedical Communication Centre (BCC) at the College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Oyo State. This e-learning laboratory, valued at ₦40 million, features a production studio and a live studio named after Elder Felix Ohiwerei. It is equipped with interactive boards, computers, computer accessories, cameras, professional lighting kits, microphones, headphones, monitors, processors, controllers, mixers, software, and studio lighting.

In addition to the laboratory, the Nigerian Breweries-Felix Ohiwerei Education Trust Fund has committed ₦20 million for internet services to the institution over the next four years.

During the commissioning ceremony on July 22, 2024, Hans Essaadi, Chairman of the Felix Ohiwerei Trust Fund, represented by Sade Morgan, Corporate Affairs Director of Nigerian Breweries Plc, stated that the donation fulfills their promise and complements the Federal Government’s efforts to improve education and research quality for both students and lecturers. Essaadi emphasized that the facility is designed to meet the institution’s need for a modern audiovisual production center to produce various content for diverse audiences in real-time and on-demand.

Prof. Kayode Adebowale, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, represented by Deputy Vice-Chancellor Prof. Peter Olapegba, praised Nigerian Breweries Plc for its significant contributions to advancing medical education at the College of Medicine. He urged for continued support from the company and assured that the institution would make effective use of the facility for the benefit of humanity.

Prof. Olayinka Omigbodun, Provost of the College of Medicine, expressed deep gratitude for the ongoing support from Nigerian Breweries-Felix Ohiwerei Education Trust Fund. She highlighted that the donation of the e-learning studio would greatly enhance the institution’s ability to provide quality research and service delivery to medical students. She also acknowledged past donations, including medical training equipment worth ₦42 million in 2020, which have significantly upgraded the clinical skills laboratory to compete globally.

Nigerian Breweries Plc, a member of the HEINEKEN Group and Nigeria’s largest brewing company, has a rich portfolio of 19 brands and a history of corporate social responsibility and innovation. For more information, visit the Nigerian Breweries website: www.nbplc.com.

The Enugu State Government has urged federal workers in the state to cease observing the sit-at-home directive on Mondays and to report to their duty posts. This appeal was made by Ken Chukwuegbo, Principal Secretary to Governor Peter Mbah, during a visit to the Federal Secretariat in Enugu, alongside the state Head of Service, Kenneth Ugwu.

Chukwuegbo emphasized that the state’s economy suffers due to the absence of federal workers on Mondays, despite Governor Mbah having declared the sit-at-home order, imposed by the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), illegal upon taking office in 2023. He highlighted that state workers have been attending work on Mondays and that federal workers should do the same to avoid giving Enugu a negative image.

Chukwuegbo reassured the workers of their safety and urged them to contribute to the state’s development by being present at their posts. In response, Emeka Nwokoro, Chairman of the Association of Heads of Federal Establishments in the state, committed to continuing to appeal to workers to report to work on Mondays, noting that the association has been addressing security concerns among the workers.

A federal worker, speaking anonymously, expressed ongoing fears about security in the South-East and suggested that releasing Nnamdi Kanu from prison might help resolve the insecurity in the region.

The Plateau State Police Command has arrested 14 individuals for violating the 24-hour curfew imposed in Jos and its environs. This curfew was enforced following violent outbreaks and looting by protesters in the Jos North Local Government Area.

Commissioner of Police Emmanuel Adesina explained that the peaceful nationwide protests were hijacked by miscreants, prompting the state government to impose the curfew to restore order. Adesina emphasized that the curfew will be strictly enforced, and violators will be prosecuted.

Retired Brigadier General Gakji Shipi, the Special Adviser on Security to the Plateau governor, urged residents to avoid violence and support peaceful coexistence. He reassured that the government is committed to maintaining peace in the state and will continue to back security agencies in their efforts.

The security meeting, led by Governor Caleb Mutfwang, reaffirmed the government’s determination to ensure the safety and security of Plateau State residents.

The Kaduna State Police Command has detained 39 suspected hoodlums, including a tailor producing Russian flags, during the ‘end bad governance’ protests. The command’s spokesperson, ASP Mansir Hassan, confirmed the arrests in a statement issued on Monday.

The detained individuals were seen displaying Russian and Chinese flags and were involved in vandalizing private and public properties. Among the damaged properties were a Hilux vehicle belonging to KADVS, a Toyota Yaris owned by a journalist, and the KASTLEA office in Zone 6, Zaria, which was set on fire.

Police, along with other security agencies, intervened to restore order. During the confrontation, the suspects used stones, catapults, and other weapons. The police managed to calm the situation using minimal tear gas.

Recovered items included 38 Russian flags, one Chinese flag, two catapults with a bag of stones, and various vandalized items.

The state Commissioner of Police, Mr. Audu Dabigi, commended his officers for their professional conduct and warned residents to adhere to the imposed curfew, assuring that violators would face arrest and prosecution. He appealed for cooperation from all citizens to help ensure the swift restoration of peace in Kaduna State.

Amid nationwide protests, the Federal Government’s decision to subsidize the price of a 50kg bag of rice from over ₦80,000 to ₦40,000 has sparked significant debate. This move, announced by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is intended to alleviate the food crisis and its effects on Nigerians, particularly public servants. However, the public remains skeptical about the effectiveness of this measure in addressing the deeper, systemic issues facing the nation.

The government, through Minister of Information Mohammed Idris, also announced the distribution of 740 trucks of grains to various states as part of its relief efforts. Despite these measures, many Nigerians feel that the reliance on rice subsidies is an inadequate response to broader concerns about insecurity, unemployment, and the high cost of living.

A viral video from the protests captured a protester expressing frustration: “You complain about insecurity, rice. You complain about unemployment, rice. You complain about the fact that we’re hungry, rice… We say we want to protest, rice.”

Critics, including Phrank Shaibu, special assistant on public communication to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, have argued that the government’s focus on rice subsidies is a superficial attempt to pacify the public amid widespread discontent. Shaibu remarked on social media that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) should consider changing its logo to rice, highlighting the perception that the government views rice as a catch-all solution to Nigeria’s problems.

As the protests continue, public skepticism about the government’s measures remains a crucial point of discussion, with many calling for more comprehensive and sustainable solutions to address the nation’s challenges.

In a significant effort to address Nigeria’s pressing food crisis, the Federal Government has announced a plan to provide 50kg bags of rice to public servants at a subsidized rate of ₦40,000. This initiative aims to alleviate the impact of the food crisis on Nigerians.

The Federal Ministry of Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs disclosed this plan in a letter signed by the Director of Human Resources, Jaiyesimi Abimbola. The letter instructs interested staff members to complete a Google form on the OHCSF website, print it out, and submit it to the Director of Human Resources for endorsement.

“All interested staff are required to complete a Google form on the OHCSF website, print, and submit the same to the Director, HR, for endorsement,” Abimbola stated.

The letter also specifies that designated officials will manage the payment and distribution of the rice, with the chairman of the Joint Union Council of the ministry serving as an observer to ensure transparency.

This initiative is part of broader efforts by the Tinubu administration to ease living conditions for citizens. Recently, the government established centers nationwide where Nigerians can purchase 50kg bags of rice for ₦40,000. Minister of Information and National Orientation Muhammed Idris emphasized that this initiative is one of several measures being implemented to support the population during these challenging times.

Each staff member is entitled to purchase one bag, and multiple staff members can buy a bag jointly to share.

“Please bring the contents of this circular to the attention of staff in your respective Departments/Units for information and guidance,” the letter concluded.

On Monday, the nationwide protest extended to the Eleme/Onne section of the East-West Road in Rivers State, as a large crowd of protesters gathered at this crucial section connecting the Port Harcourt refineries. The protesters took over the Akpajo axis of the East-West Road, up to the entrance leading to Indorama Petrochemicals, disrupting vehicular movement.

This major route is vital for connecting Port Harcourt to key business facilities, including the Onne seaport, Port Harcourt refineries, Indorama Petrochemicals, and more than six Local Government Areas in the state. The protesters, who remained peaceful, carried placards expressing their dissatisfaction with the pervasive poverty, hunger, and high cost of food items in the country.

One of the protesters, Walson Idah, highlighted the group’s decision to focus on the East-West Road to express their frustration over “hunger, poverty, and infrastructure deficit” in what should be a viable business area. He emphasized the need for the government to revive the refineries, which have the potential to provide significant employment and empowerment opportunities.

“In spite of the huge economic potentials in the business area, we are unemployed, hungry, and poor. We are not taking any palliatives from politicians,” Idah said. “We need jobs, good roads, affordable electricity, and basic infrastructure.”

The protesters called on the Federal Government to address the high cost of staple foods, which have become unaffordable for many families. They also urged the Federal Government to hold governors accountable for their alleged failure to effectively implement policies using the fuel subsidy intervention funds.

The Katsina Government has decided to relax the 24-hour curfew in Dutsinma Local Government Area due to an improved security situation. Acting Governor Alhaji Faruq Jobe approved this decision, adjusting the curfew to now run from 7 pm to 7 am.

Previously, a full-day curfew had been imposed in Dutsinma, along with a 7 pm to 7 am curfew across all 34 local government areas in response to violence following a hunger protest. This decision was reached after a state security council meeting, chaired by the acting governor, which also reinforced the ban on unusual gatherings and all types of protests.

The acting governor praised the security agencies for their civil approach in dealing with hoodlums who had hijacked the peaceful protest for criminal activities. He also thanked parents, guardians, and community leaders for advising their children and youths to avoid participating in such disruptive actions.

Additionally, the state security council announced the arrest of several youths linked to the recent violence, looting, and destruction of property. These individuals have been charged with offenses including criminal conspiracy, causing public disturbance, vandalism, and theft. The Secretary to the State Government, Alhaj Abdullahi Garba-Faskari, urged the public to remain calm and law-abiding during this period.

The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has stated that the Igbo ethnic group is more committed to leaving Nigeria than ever before. In a statement released by IPOB’s Director of Media and Publicity, Emma Powerful, on August 5, 2024, the group responded to the “IgboMustGo” campaign promoted by a faceless Yoruba group on social media. IPOB accused high-profile individuals within the Lagos State and Federal Governments of sponsoring this campaign and criticized Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for what they termed his hypocritical stance on the matter.

IPOB’s statement emphasized that the Igbo community is prepared to exit Nigeria through a democratic and peaceful referendum. They expressed readiness to leave Yoruba land and Nigeria as a whole, insisting that the Igbo will not succumb to threats or intimidation from any group. The statement highlighted past instances where the Igbo community has faced ethnic profiling and biased actions against their businesses and properties in Lagos State, attributing these actions to Governor Sanwo-Olu’s administration.

Despite the ongoing “IgboMustGo” campaign, IPOB maintained that the Igbo community is not troubled by the threats posed by what they referred to as “Yoruba bigots and their sponsors.” The group reiterated their desire to leave Nigeria peacefully to preserve good neighborly relationships, emphasizing that their preference is for a democratic exit rather than a violent one.

Peter Obi, the Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, has expressed his disappointment over President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent national address. In his response titled “My Response to the President’s Address” on his X handle, Obi stated that Tinubu’s speech failed to address the underlying issues that triggered the recent protests and appeared disconnected from the harsh realities faced by the people.

Obi highlighted his initial hesitation to respond immediately, fearing it might be seen as an attempt to influence public opinion. However, he felt compelled to speak out due to the address’s shortcomings. He thanked the President for eventually addressing the nation but criticised the lack of empathy for those injured, arrested, and detained during the protests due to overzealous security operatives.

In his response, Obi called for decisive action against those propagating ethnic intolerance and emphasised the need for regular updates from the President to restore hope and rebuild trust in the nation. He condemned the ethnic bigotry against certain groups and stressed the government’s duty to protect peaceful protesters.

Obi urged the President to address pressing issues such as the exorbitant cost of governance, measures to tackle corruption, the high cost of living, and directing resources effectively towards critical areas like health, education, and poverty alleviation. He concluded by calling for immediate and concrete measures to alleviate Nigerians’ suffering and set the country on a path to recovery.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has been called upon to halt its alleged manipulative efforts and engage in meaningful dialogue. According to a statement from Edolites For Peace and Progress, led by Madam Adesua Odigie, the APC is accused of trying to politicize the ongoing hunger protests in Edo State, which address issues of poverty and hunger, in order to undermine the PDP-led government.

Madam Adesua Odigie stated, “We have observed that the APC is actively attempting to co-opt and manipulate the genuine grievances of the protesters.”

She criticized the APC for attempting to use the protests for political gain, describing it as a desperate attempt to discredit the PDP government. The group claims that the APC’s actions are intended to create political turmoil and shift blame onto the current administration, thereby diverting attention from the real issues and inciting unrest.

“The APC’s interference is designed to generate confusion and attribute the economic challenges to the PDP administration. Such tactics are unethical and undermine genuine efforts to alleviate the people’s suffering,” the statement read. They urged the APC to stop these alleged manipulative actions and focus on constructive dialogue.

The group called on the APC to cease exploiting the hardships faced by the people of Edo for political purposes and instead work towards finding effective solutions and collaborating on addressing the state’s economic challenges.

They voiced support for the PDP-led government’s initiatives to resolve state issues and urged unity among Edo residents.

“In these difficult times, it is crucial for all stakeholders to come together and work towards the betterment of Edo State. We must remain vigilant against attempts to derail our progress and focus on building a prosperous future for everyone,” the statement concluded.

Abia State University, Uturu, has imposed a three-month suspension on Dr. Udochukwu Emmanuel Ndukwe, a lecturer in the Department of Mass Communication, due to allegations of sexual harassment involving a female student.

Reports from Punch reveal that Ndukwe has faced multiple accusations of sexually harassing, intimidating, and extorting female students. A video circulating online reportedly shows Ndukwe in a compromising situation, naked and on his knees, being questioned by others.

Sources indicate that a final-year female student, whom Ndukwe allegedly harassed over two years, set him up at a well-known hotel. It was also noted that Ndukwe married in 2022 and received his PhD this year.

In a letter dated July 30, 2024, signed by the university’s registrar, Dr. Acho Elendu, Ndukwe’s actions were labeled as an “embarrassment.” The letter announced his immediate suspension for three months, during which he will receive half of his salary, pending the outcome of an investigation by a newly formed panel.

The letter instructed Ndukwe to return any university property in his possession to his Head of Department and emphasized that all university authorities should ensure strict compliance with the suspension notice.

On the third day of the nationwide protest against hunger and economic hardship, demonstrators took to the streets in Rivers State. On Saturday, August 3, 2024, protesters gathered in the state capital, where they encountered Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s convoy.

The protesters, excited and holding leaves, created a lively atmosphere as Fubara’s convoy approached. They surrounded his vehicle, peacefully demanding that he address them directly. Earlier in the protests, Fubara had engaged with demonstrators and assured them that their concerns would be communicated to the relevant authorities. He also urged for peaceful conduct within legal boundaries.

Rivers State has largely remained calm amid the nationwide protests, with demonstrators gathering at Pleasure Park in Port Harcourt since Thursday. Security personnel were present at the park to ensure peace and safety for both protesters and the general public. The protest, largely driven by young people, is planned to continue for 10 days.

General Christopher Musa, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), has urged the media to refrain from giving excessive coverage to the ongoing protests by some groups, emphasizing that the government supports the right to free association without constraints.

On Friday in Abuja, Musa remarked, “I observed that all media outlets were extensively covering the protests recently. This isn’t an election, and the media should avoid amplifying these events.”

He was responding to the nationwide protests that began on Thursday, which are reportedly in reaction to economic difficulties in the country.

Musa argued that excessive media attention might encourage protesters who are only seeking publicity. “Some individuals use these protests as an opportunity to loot, steal, and cause damage,” he said.

He confirmed that many individuals causing disturbances during the protests have been arrested and assured the public of ongoing support from both the police and the military. Musa indicated that contact information would be provided for reporting suspicious activities.

While acknowledging the government’s commitment to allowing free association, Musa expressed disappointment that the protests have devolved into violence. “Initially, the protests were peaceful, but they quickly became dominated by criminal elements,” he noted.

Musa praised the Nigeria Police Force and the armed forces for their professionalism and pledged that they will continue to act with restraint as long as there is a clear distinction between lawful protest and criminal behavior.

He urged Nigerians to recognize the government’s efforts to tackle the country’s economic and security issues.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has expressed concern over President Bola Tinubu’s silence since the start of the #EndBadGovernance protests on August 1, calling it troubling and exacerbating public dissatisfaction.

In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, on August 3, the PDP urged President Tinubu to promptly address the nation. The party is demanding immediate action on reducing fuel prices, stabilizing the naira, and addressing other pressing economic issues.

“The PDP criticizes President Tinubu for not addressing the nation amid the widespread protests by Nigerians,” the statement said.

The party stressed that the President must urgently outline steps to lower fuel prices, curb the naira’s depreciation, and expedite food distribution to boost the economy, create jobs, and restore stability.

The PDP is concerned that President Tinubu’s silence suggests that the All Progressives Congress (APC) government is out of touch with citizens’ concerns and the nation’s dire situation.

“It is alarming that President Tinubu remains silent while Nigerians are protesting for good governance, security, and welfare—fundamental government responsibilities,” the statement continued.

The party condemned the violence against unarmed protesters by APC-affiliated security agencies and alleged APC-backed thugs, calling for President Tinubu to end his silence and address the nation on crucial issues like fuel and food prices.

The PDP also called for the recovery of over N50 trillion reportedly embezzled by APC leaders, urged a reduction in tariffs on essential goods, and advocated for cost-cutting measures within the government. They emphasized the need for transparent management of resources and investments in gas production to bring down fuel prices.

Additionally, the PDP demanded a thorough investigation into the killings of unarmed Nigerians by corrupt security operatives and urged the security agencies to uphold professionalism. They reiterated their call for peaceful and lawful protests to demand a more responsive and citizen-focused government.

Signed:

Hon. Debo Ologunagba
National Publicity Secretary

Former Aviation Minister Osita Chidoka has addressed remarks made by Senator Shehu Sani on August 1 regarding the perceived lack of participation from the South East in the ongoing End Bad Governance protests in Nigeria.

Sani had noted that while other regions experienced significant unrest, including the burning of shops and government buildings, the South East appeared relatively quiet.

Chidoka’s response to these comments can be seen below…

Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Christopher Musa has promised that the Nigerian Army will intervene if the current protests escalate further.

Musa made this statement while speaking with journalists on Friday about the extent of violence observed in the country. Since August 1, Nigerians have been protesting against economic hardships, hunger, and other socio-economic issues.

On Thursday, some hoodlums took advantage of the protests to vandalize and loot properties. In response, Musa assured that the military is on high alert and ready to act if the situation worsens.

Additionally, Defence Minister Mohammed Badaru Abubakar praised the National Council for Civil Society of Nigeria for not participating in the ongoing protests. He highlighted the various initiatives of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu aimed at improving the economy and benefiting Nigerians.

“He has been in office for just one year and has already made significant progress. I am confident that these initiatives will soon lead to positive outcomes,” Abubakar added.