The High Court of Justice in Rivers State, under Justice Jumbo Stephen, has issued an interim injunction prohibiting the state’s Chief Judge, Justice Someone Amadi, from implementing any resolutions made by 27 lawmakers who recently defected from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). This legal action follows a contentious dispute over the lawmakers’ defection.

The court order, dated July 8, 2024, directs that the clerk of the Rivers State House of Assembly refrain from acting on resolutions, articles of impeachment, or any communications from these lawmakers pending further legal proceedings. It also mandates the maintenance of the status quo ante as of July 5, 2024, until the hearing and determination of the motion on notice for interlocutory injunction scheduled for July 15, 2024.

Furthermore, the court has ordered substituted service of legal documents on the lawmakers by pasting them at the gate of the Rivers State House of Assembly Quarters in Port Harcourt.

The presiding judge adjourned the case to July 15, 2024, for further proceedings regarding the interlocutory injunction. The lawmakers affected by this order include Hon. Dumle Maol, Hon. Major Jack, Hon. Franklin Uchenna Nwabochi, and others who switched allegiance to the APC.

The National Vanguard for Rule of Law (NVRL) has applauded the Court of Appeal’s decision to dismiss two appeals by former Local Government Chairmen in Rivers State who sought to extend their terms, supporting ex-governor Nyesom Wike. These appeals, identified as CA/PH/137M/2024 and CA/PH/145M/2024, were deemed unsubstantiated by the court.

In a statement by its President, Comrade Johnson Babatunde, the NVRL praised the judges of the Port Harcourt Division for their courage and integrity in delivering a fair judgment despite alleged attempts to bribe them. Babatunde emphasized that this ruling strengthens public trust in the judiciary and reaffirms the court as a beacon of hope for the common man.

The NVRL called on Nigerians to support judges who uphold fairness and urged residents of Rivers State to continue supporting Governor Siminalayi Fubara in advancing democratic governance. The group also encouraged citizens to prepare for upcoming local government elections to replace officials who sought to unlawfully extend their terms.

Dr. Vincent Isegbe, the Director-General of the Nigeria Agricultural Quarantine Service (NAQS), expressed gratitude for NAQS being ranked first by the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC) in its recent evaluation of regulatory reforms. NAQS achieved a perfect score of 100%, surpassing 35 other federal ministries, departments, and agencies.

Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, the President’s special adviser on ease of doing business, announced this recognition at the inaugural PEBEC town hall meeting in Abuja, commending NAQS for its commitment to excellence and service delivery.

Dr. Isegbe credited this achievement to the collaborative effort of the NAQS PEBEC Team and highlighted the leadership of Honorable Minister Senator Abubakar Kyari as instrumental in guiding NAQS to the top spot. He emphasized Senator Kyari’s dedication, vigilance in monitoring NAQS’s performance on the PEBEC tracker, and consistent motivation to maintain their leadership position.

The recognition is expected to enhance investor confidence and attract more global business opportunities to Nigeria, underscoring NAQS’s role as a leader in regulatory excellence within the country.

Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State expressed concern over the Nigerian Police Force’s delay in issuing a statement regarding the attempted detonation of an explosive device near the Presidential Hotel in Port Harcourt. The governor attributed the incident to protesters advocating for the elongation of the tenure of former chairmen of local government councils in Rivers State. He remarked that if such actions were linked to his supporters, terrorism charges would likely have been swiftly applied.

Fubara emphasized that amidst political challenges in the state, there exists a singular opposition against his administration, with others striving to undermine the state’s progress. He referenced previous declarations by his predecessors, including Nyesom Wike, affirming that Rivers State is dedicated to God, suggesting that those opposing the state would face insurmountable difficulties and setbacks.

The governor commended the Rivers State House of Assembly led by Victor Oko-Jumbo and expressed confidence in their ability to perform legislative functions lawfully. He further urged the newly appointed Commissioner for Finance, Emmanuel Frank-Fubara, to uphold integrity and serve the people with dedication.

Fubara pledged his administration’s commitment to delivering quality developmental projects that enhance the lives of Rivers State residents, aiming for a legacy of positive impact and progress for the state’s future.

In a recent tragic incident in Borno State, at least over 32 lives were lost due to a bomb blast orchestrated by four suicide bombers who detonated improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in Gwoza. This devastating attack also left numerous individuals severely injured, with injuries ranging from abdominal ruptures to fractures of the skull and limbs.

General Christopher Musa, the Chief of Defence Staff, emphasized the critical importance of public intelligence in military operations during his visit to Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State. He acknowledged the limitations of the military in being omnipresent and highlighted that recent bombings in Gwoza and Pulka were aimed at undermining the government’s efforts.

General Musa reassured Nigerians that those responsible for such attacks would be apprehended and urged collaboration between citizens and security agencies to enhance national security. He stressed that security forces are tirelessly working to maintain peace and security across Nigeria, despite the challenges posed by insurgents who operate within local communities.

The incident underscores ongoing security threats in Borno State and the broader efforts required to ensure the safety and well-being of all citizens amidst persistent acts of terrorism and violence.

The management of Kwara State University (KWASU), Malete, has announced the expulsion of 175 students for various offenses. According to a statement by Dr. Saeedat Aliyu, the Director of University Relations, the expulsion decision was based on recommendations from the Students’ Disciplinary Committee. This committee conducted sittings between October 2021 and March 2024 to review cases of misconduct.

The expelled students were found guilty of offenses such as examination malpractice, theft, using fake results for admission, assault, fraud, belonging to unregistered associations, and possession of firearms. The university reiterated its commitment to maintaining discipline and upholding high standards of character and learning among its students.

This action underscores KWASU’s zero-tolerance policy towards misconduct and aims to ensure that its graduates embody excellence in both academics and moral conduct.

The Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University Dutsinma (FUDMA), Katsina State, Prof. Armaya’u Bichi, has made a troubling revelation regarding some university staff allegedly acting as informants for bandits operating in the region. He disclosed to reporters in Katsina that these suspected individuals had been identified, and their contact details were handed over to a security agency for further investigation.

The issue arose amidst ongoing security challenges in the area, including attacks by bandits who have targeted university students, staff, and their families. A recent incident resulting in the death of a university staff member prompted protests from colleagues over the deteriorating security situation.

Prof. Bichi expressed deep concern over the existence of informants within the university, stressing that such actions undermine efforts to ensure safety on campus. Despite the university’s proactive measures to address the issue, including cooperating with security agencies, there has been no update on the progress of the investigation from the authorities involved.

In response, the Police Command in Katsina State stated that they were not initially aware of the specific allegations but pledged to investigate the matter further. They also called on the public to provide any relevant information that could assist in tackling the security challenges facing the region.

The situation underscores the severity of security threats in the region and the complexities universities face in ensuring the safety of their community amidst ongoing security challenges

In response to media reports and speculation, U.S. President Joe Biden’s physician, Dr. Kevin O’Connor, has clarified that President Biden has not seen a neurologist outside of his annual physical examinations. The statement came after questions arose regarding a Parkinson’s specialist, Dr. Cannard, who had visited the White House multiple times.

Dr. O’Connor emphasized that Dr. Cannard has been conducting neurological examinations as part of Biden’s annual physicals and has not been chosen solely because of his specialization in movement disorders. He further stated that the results of these examinations have been publicly disclosed, most recently in February, affirming that there were no signs of strokes or Parkinson’s disease, and noting the absence of any tremors in the President.

The release of this information follows a contentious exchange between journalists and White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre during a press conference. Recent visitor logs revealed Dr. Cannard’s visits to the White House, prompting questions about their purpose, which Jean-Pierre declined to directly address.

The White House’s decision to disclose these details aims to address concerns about Biden’s health and refute any unfounded speculations about his fitness for office. Biden, who is 81 years old, has faced ongoing scrutiny about his cognitive health, particularly in light of his age and previous debates during the 2020 election campaign.

Despite these questions, Biden has consistently dismissed calls for a cognitive health test, asserting his ability to fulfill his presidential duties effectively. The recent statement by his physician is intended to provide transparency and clarity regarding the President’s health status.

The Abia State Government has reported a significant increase in its Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), recording approximately ₦15.5 billion between January and June 2024. Commissioner for Finance, Mike Akpara, shared this information during a news briefing at the Government House in Umuahia. He expressed satisfaction with the consistent monthly improvement in revenue figures.

Akpara detailed that the state’s IGR had shown a steady growth, with a notable year-to-date increase from around 59% to 62%. Specifically, from January to June 2024, the IGR totaled ₦15,499,482,456.70. Additionally, from July 1 to July 6, 2024, the state generated ₦17,010,976,942.34.

He highlighted the importance of monitoring monthly average revenue, which provides a clearer picture of income patterns. For example, between June 23 and June 29, 2024, the state generated an average revenue of ₦2.5 billion. From July 1 to July 6, the average revenue increased to ₦2.7 billion, illustrating the cyclical nature of IGR.

To further boost revenue, the government has set ambitious targets: an average monthly revenue generation of ₦4.3 billion and a total of ₦52.4 billion by the end of the year. These targets exceed the budgeted figures to encourage higher performance.

Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Ferdinand Ekeoma, mentioned that a multipurpose task force has been established to ensure effective tax collection, contributing to the expected consistent increase in revenue generation. The government remains optimistic about achieving and surpassing these targets, aiming to improve the state’s financial stability and development.

The Federal Capital Territory Emergency Management Department (FEMD) successfully prevented a 24-year-old man, Shuaibu Yusha’u, from committing suicide in Abuja on Monday. Yusha’u, from Baga Local Government Area of Borno State, had climbed a 120-meter mast at Katampe Hill, within the premises of Aso Radio and Television Services, and threatened to jump in protest against the removal of the fuel subsidy, which he claimed had plunged the country into economic chaos, causing hardship particularly among the poor and vulnerable.

In his attempted suicide note, Yusha’u expressed his demands to the Federal Government: reversing the fuel subsidy removal, declaring a state of emergency in states affected by terrorist attacks and rising insecurity (Sokoto, Zamfara, Kebbi, Niger, Kaduna, and Borno), opening national borders to address food shortages, and tackling the issue of out-of-school children.

The acting Director-General of FEMD, Florence Wenegieme, responded to a distress call and arrived at the scene to persuade Yusha’u to abandon his suicide attempt. After about an hour of counselling, she successfully convinced him to climb down. Wenegieme advised citizens against taking their lives to draw government attention, suggesting there are better ways to approach the government with concerns.

She emphasized that President Bola Tinubu’s administration is addressing the issues of insecurity and food shortages, as well as providing palliatives to cushion the effects of the fuel subsidy removal. Wenegieme promised to arrange counselling services for Yusha’u and called for aggressive sensitization campaigns to discourage suicide and promote positive approaches to addressing grievances.

Other government agencies present at the scene included the FCT Fire Service, National Emergency Management Agency, Social Development Secretariat, FCTA, Department of Reform Coordination, and Nigeria Police.

Residents of Rano town in Kano State are alarmed by the presence of armed hoodlums at the Emirate’s headquarters since Sunday. In a letter to the state Police Commissioner, it was revealed that these armed individuals were stationed at the Emir’s palace by unidentified persons, posing a potential threat to the safety of lives and property.

The letter, quoted by Punch, described the situation: “In the evening of Sunday, July 7, 2024, Rano town, the headquarters of our beloved Rano emirate, was invaded by armed hoodlums, believed to be sponsored by a yet-to-be-identified person(s), who camped at the Emir’s palaces (both the Main Place and historic Tsohon Gari Palace).”

It emphasized that the motives of these armed youths are unknown, and their presence violates the Commissioner of Police’s ban on non-state security actors providing security services in the state, issued on June 20, 2024.

The letter highlighted the peaceful nature of the Rano emirate, noting that its inhabitants are known for conducting their daily activities without causing disturbances. The emirate has enjoyed uninterrupted peace for years, as confirmed by security agencies. However, recent tensions arising from emirate disputes in Kano State have caused discontent among residents, who feel their opinions as stakeholders were not respected.

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has clarified that the Samoa agreement does not require Nigeria to recognize LGBTQ or gay rights as a condition for a $150 billion loan or in any other context. NBA President Yakubu Maikyau (SAN) emphasized that the agreement respects the local laws and sovereignty of the involved nations, including Nigeria’s Same-Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act, 2023, and the Supremacy of the Nigerian Constitution.

The NBA reassured that it would advise the Federal Government against any agreements that might undermine Nigeria’s sovereignty. The association supports the government’s public awareness campaigns and urges other stakeholders to participate in counteracting negative perceptions about the agreement. It also advised the public to verify the accuracy of information from newspapers and social media.

The Nigerian government has vowed to invalidate any LGBT clause in international agreements. Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris stated that the government ensured none of the Samoa Agreement’s 103 Articles and Provisions violated Nigeria’s Constitution or laws. This situation highlights the tension between international cooperation and local cultural values in a globalized world.

Dr. Yunusa Tanko, the chief spokesman of the Obi-Datti campaign organization, addressed several key issues in a recent interview with Pulse Nigeria:

1. **Obi’s Association with the Obidient Community**:
– Peter Obi did not dissociate himself from the Obidient community. Instead, he emphasized that while the Labour Party attempted to establish an Obidient directorate, the Obidient movement itself is broader and stands for good governance, which Obi represents.

2. **Labour Party’s Internal Crisis**:
– Obi is focused on building a political party everyone can be proud of, despite the current crisis. He is not considering leaving the party but is working towards resolving internal challenges. Obi aims to broker peace within the party as a leader and father figure.

3. **Obi’s Candidacy and Allegations of Igbo Presidency Obsession**:
– Tanko refuted claims that Obi’s candidacy is driven by an obsession for an Igbo presidency. He highlighted that Obi’s emergence was due to his credibility and the support from various regions, including non-Igbo supporters.

4. **Potential Northern Support and Regional Politics**:
– Tanko argued that regional politics and rotational positions stem from past leaders’ incompetence. He believes that if a leader, regardless of their region, performs well, they would gain broad support. He expressed confidence in Obi’s ability to bring positive change if elected.

5. **Peter Obi’s Next Move Amidst Labour Party Dispute**:
– While Tanko hopes for a resolution to the Labour Party’s internal issues, he stated that Obi’s priority is to work with various parties and stakeholders to salvage the country. Obi is open to collaboration with other political parties.

6. **Relationship with Julius Abure**:
– Obi maintains a cordial, father-son-like relationship with the Labour Party’s national leadership under Julius Abure. Tanko emphasized the importance of unity and collective effort within the party.

7. **Kenneth Okonkwo’s Statements**:
– Tanko acknowledged that individuals have the right to express their views. He assured that Obi takes such feedback constructively to improve and move forward as a team.

8. **Nnamdi Kanu’s Detention**:
– Tanko emphasized the importance of the rule of law in addressing the detention of Nnamdi Kanu. He called for adherence to legal processes to avoid anarchy.

9. **Lessons from the Election Tribunal**:
– Tanko highlighted the need for better organization within the Labour Party. He stressed the importance of following proper processes to establish legitimate leadership and strengthen the party’s foundation.

The political landscape in Rivers State remains tense as two factions of the State House of Assembly are set to hold parallel sessions today, July 8, 2024. This development exacerbates the existing uncertainty and highlights the urgency of the situation.

On Sunday night, the faction led by Hon. Victor Oko-Jumbo, which supports Governor Siminalayi Fubara, issued a letter through the Clerk, Dr. G. M. Gillis-West, inviting Emmanuel Frank-Fubara for screening and confirmation as a member of the State Executive Council on Monday. This session is scheduled to take place in an improvised chamber at the Government House in Port Harcourt.

Meanwhile, the faction led by Hon. Martin Amaewhule, aligned with the Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike, will also convene for a plenary session today at the State Assembly’s official quarters on Aba Road, Port Harcourt.

The Amaewhule-led lawmakers’ agenda remains unclear, but it marks their first sitting since the Court of Appeal affirmed them as legitimate members of the House. They may discuss critical issues, potentially including the ongoing police barricade of the state’s 23 local government councils, which has lasted over two weeks.

The backdrop to this crisis includes the bombing of the State House of Assembly Complex in October 2023, following an attempt by 27 lawmakers loyal to Minister Nyesom Wike to impeach Governor Fubara. Subsequently, pro-Wike lawmakers announced their defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), deepening the political turmoil in the state.

Currently, the fate of the 27 lawmakers remains subject to ongoing litigation, further complicating the political landscape in Rivers State.

Alhaji Tahir Shehu, the Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Adamawa State, praised Governor Ahmadu Fintiri for enhancing the party’s standing through his recognition as the best governor for infrastructural development. Speaking at a dinner in Yola honoring Governor Fintiri, Shehu highlighted that this was the second occasion Fintiri had received such recognition.

He noted that Governor Fintiri had previously been acknowledged by former President Muhammadu Buhari and now by President Bola Tinubu for his exceptional achievements in infrastructure development. Shehu expressed pride in Fintiri’s accomplishments, emphasizing that as the state party chairman, Fintiri’s efforts had made a significant impact.

Shehu assured Governor Fintiri of continued support to enable further development initiatives in Adamawa State and beyond. Prof. Kaletapwa Farauta, Deputy Governor, conveyed congratulations on behalf of Adamawa women, commending Fintiri for his efforts in promoting women’s representation in upcoming council elections.

Dr. Auwal Tukur, Secretary to the State Government, also extended congratulations to Governor Fintiri, pledging ongoing support for the successful implementation of state policies and programs. In response, Governor Fintiri expressed gratitude to the people of Adamawa State for celebrating with him and vowed to continue striving to attract investors and drive further development.

He attributed the national recognition to the collective support and cooperation of the people, highlighting that his administration’s reforms and institution-strengthening efforts had facilitated significant investments totaling $125 million in the state.