“Reps Urge Federal Government to Exempt Military Personnel from Airport Toll Gates”

The House of Representatives has taken a stand on the recent policy regarding toll gates at airports, particularly concerning the exemption of military personnel from toll payments. This resolution, prompted by a motion brought forward by Abdulsamad Dasuki during a plenary session, reflects the House’s concern for the welfare and recognition of members of the Armed Forces.

Dasuki’s motion emphasizes the invaluable service rendered by the Armed Forces in safeguarding the nation’s security and territorial integrity. He highlights their contributions in various domains, including protecting borders, combating armed banditry, and ensuring safe navigation in territorial waters. Given their dedication and sacrifice, Dasuki argues that it is fitting for military personnel to be exempted from toll payments at airports and major train stations.

The motion resonated with fellow lawmakers, who echoed the sentiment that the government should acknowledge the sacrifices made by members of the Armed Forces by granting them certain privileges. The resolution passed by the House urges the Federal Government to implement this exemption, ensuring that military personnel are not burdened with tollgate fees and parking payments at airports, seaports, and train stations nationwide.

Furthermore, the House has directed relevant committees to oversee the implementation of this exemption, underscoring the importance of ensuring compliance with the resolution. This proactive approach demonstrates the commitment of the House to advocating for the welfare and recognition of military personnel, who continue to serve the nation with dedication and selflessness.

The tragic incident involving a London-Singapore flight, which resulted in the death of one individual, underscores the sudden and unpredictable dangers that can arise during air travel. With 211 passengers and 18 crew members onboard, the turbulence experienced during the flight undoubtedly caused significant distress and concern among those involved.

Turbulence is a known risk during flights, but its severity can vary, occasionally leading to injuries or, as in this case, even loss of life. The impact of such incidents extends beyond the physical injuries, affecting passengers and crew emotionally and psychologically.

This unfortunate event serves as a reminder of the importance of safety protocols and measures to mitigate the risks associated with air travel. Airlines and aviation authorities continually work to enhance safety standards and procedures to minimize the occurrence and severity of such incidents.

As investigations into the circumstances surrounding the turbulence unfold, it’s crucial for authorities and industry stakeholders to learn from this tragedy and implement any necessary improvements to ensure the safety and well-being of passengers and crew on future flights. Additionally, support and condolences go out to the family and loved ones of the individual who lost their life in this distressing event.

“Kogi East APC Youths Movement Issues Stern Warning Against Ethnic Politics”

The Kogi East APC Youths Movement recently held a press conference in Lokoja, where they addressed the issue of ethnic politics in the state. Led by the Convener, Comrade Promise Emmanuel, the group expressed deep concern over the divisive nature of ethnic politics and its detrimental effects on the unity and progress of Kogi State.

During the conference, Emmanuel accused certain politicians within the state of perpetuating ethnic politics for their personal gain, rather than focusing on the development and well-being of the people. Although he refrained from naming specific individuals, he emphasized that the Igala/Bassa nation, to which many in the state belong, should not be portrayed as ethnic bigots, contrary to some narratives being circulated.

The movement vehemently denounced the manipulation of ethnic sentiments by politicians to sow discord among the youth and other communities. They emphasized that the Igala/Bassa nation is inclusive and welcomes people from diverse backgrounds without seeking dominance or exclusivity.

Furthermore, the group rejected political tribalism in all its forms and declared that Kogi State belongs to all its people, regardless of ethnicity or creed. They drew a clear line against tribalism, affirming that such divisive tendencies have no place in the state’s political landscape.

The youths highlighted the dangers of allowing tribalism to permeate society, warning that it could erode the fabric of unity and hinder progress and prosperity in Kogi East and the state as a whole. They criticized politicians who had previously avoided ethnic agendas but had now resorted to divisive narratives for their own selfish interests and ambitions.

In conclusion, the Kogi East APC Youths Movement reiterated their commitment to promoting unity and embracing diversity as sources of strength for the progress and prosperity of Kogi State. They called for the eradication of tribalism from the political sphere and urged all stakeholders to prioritize the collective good above personal gain.

One year after, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has criticized Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership, stating that he has failed to dispel doubts and rekindle hope among Nigerians. This critique likely reflects broader sentiments within the party regarding Tinubu’s leadership and its perceived effectiveness.

Tinubu, a prominent figure in Nigerian politics and a former governor of Lagos State, has been widely regarded as a key figure within the APC and a potential presidential candidate. However, this criticism suggests that his leadership may not have met the expectations of some members of the party.

The chieftain’s remarks imply that Tinubu’s actions or statements over the past year have not been sufficient to inspire confidence or optimism among Nigerians. This failure to reignite hope could be attributed to various factors, including policy decisions, political rhetoric, or perceived shortcomings in addressing key issues facing the country.

The criticism from within the APC underscores potential divisions or dissatisfaction within the party regarding Tinubu’s leadership style or approach. It also highlights the challenges facing the party as it navigates internal dynamics and prepares for future political contests.

Overall, this critique suggests that Tinubu’s leadership may face scrutiny and skepticism within the APC and the broader Nigerian political landscape as the country grapples with various socio-economic and political challenges.

The funeral ceremonies for President Ebrahim Raisi, Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian, and other victims of the helicopter crash in Iran have commenced. The tragic incident occurred on Sunday, resulting in the loss of several high-ranking government officials.

Thousands of government supporters gathered in the city of Tabriz to pay their respects and bid farewell to the departed leaders. The atmosphere was somber as mourners expressed their grief over the sudden and untimely deaths.

The funeral proceedings began in Tabriz, followed by additional mourning ceremonies planned in Qom and Tehran. These locations hold significant religious and political importance in Iran, and the ceremonies are expected to draw large crowds of mourners.

President Raisi, who was widely respected and held a prominent position in Iranian politics, is scheduled to be buried in Mashhad. Mashhad is a revered Shiite city, and his burial at the shrine of Imam Reza holds deep significance for the Iranian people.

The helicopter crash occurred under tragic circumstances, with dense fog in the mountainous region contributing to the accident. President Raisi, Foreign Minister Amirabdollahian, and seven other occupants lost their lives while returning from a meeting with Ilham Aliyev, the president of Azerbaijan.

The loss of President Raisi and other government officials has deeply impacted Iran, prompting widespread mourning and reflection across the nation. The funeral ceremonies serve as an opportunity for Iranians to honor their leaders’ legacies and come together in solidarity during this period of mourning.

“1.2 Million Federal Higher Education Students to Benefit from Nigerian Government’s Student Loan Program”

The Nigerian government has announced that 1.2 million federal higher education students are set to benefit from the first phase of the Student Loan scheme. Akintunde Sawyerr, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Nigeria Education Loan Fund, revealed this information on Monday, laying the groundwork for the launch of the program’s portal scheduled for Friday, May 24, 2024.

In his statement, Sawyerr emphasized that the scheme would directly pay school fees to students’ institutions. He outlined the application requirements, which include the submission of an admission letter from the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), National Identity Number (NIN), Bank Verification Number (BVN), and completed application forms from the program’s website.

Sawyerr clarified, “The loan application process has been streamlined to ensure easy access for all eligible students in federal tertiary institutions.” He further explained that the fees would be disbursed directly to the institutions, not to the students themselves.

With approximately 1.2 million students enrolled in federal tertiary institutions owned by the government, Sawyerr indicated that this figure represents the maximum number of students who stand to benefit initially. However, he hinted at the possibility of expanding the program to include state-owned institutions, potentially increasing the number of beneficiaries.

The announcement follows the enactment of the Student Loans (Access to Higher Education) Act (Repeal and Re-Enactment) Bill, 2024, signed into law by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on April 3.

The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has called upon the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) and Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) to postpone their scheduled activities on May 30th, a day recognized as ‘Biafra Day’ in the Southeast region of Nigeria. In an open letter addressed to the WAEC Board and UNIZIK Vice Chancellor, IPOB’s spokesman, Emma Powerful, expressed concerns over the safety of individuals amidst planned activities for that day.

May 30th holds significant historical importance as it marks Biafra Heroes Day, a day dedicated to honoring and remembering those who lost their lives during the Nigerian Civil War from 1967 to 1970. It is observed as a day of mourning and reflection, with Biafrans participating in a sit-at-home protest to pay tribute to the fallen heroes and heroines. As such, IPOB urged WAEC and UNIZIK to reschedule their events to avoid endangering the lives of individuals, particularly students and participants, on this solemn occasion.

The letter emphasized the sanctity of May 30th as a public holiday and a day of remembrance, during which all public activities are expected to come to a halt in Biafra Land. IPOB reiterated that no public events should take place on this day, and urged both WAEC and UNIZIK to demonstrate sensitivity to the significance of the occasion by rescheduling their exams and convocation ceremony, respectively.

Furthermore, IPOB warned of the potential risks and consequences of holding public events on May 30th, stating that failure to heed their call for rescheduling could lead to regrettable outcomes. They stressed the need for WAEC and UNIZIK to prioritize the safety and well-being of individuals, especially considering the emotional and historical importance attached to Biafra Day.

In summary, IPOB’s appeal to WAEC and UNIZIK underscores the importance of recognizing and respecting the significance of Biafra Heroes Day, ensuring that activities are rescheduled to avoid any disruption or risk to the lives of individuals on this solemn occasion.

“Niger Delta Group Denounces Federal Government’s Efforts, Rejects Amnesty Programme as Solution”

During the 56th Boro Day celebration, the Movement for the Survival of the Izon Ethnic Nationality in the Niger Delta (MOSIEND) expressed discontent with the perceived lack of tangible progress made by the Federal Government in addressing the issues facing the Niger Delta region. MOSIEND’s National President, Kennedy West, particularly criticized the Amnesty Programme for ex-agitators, dismissing it as insufficient to address the region’s challenges.

West emphasized that the Amnesty Programme was merely a concession made by agitators to lay down their arms, with the expectation that the government would prioritize development projects in the Niger Delta. However, he asserted that the government’s portrayal of the Amnesty Programme as an achievement was misleading, as it did not address the root causes of the region’s problems.

Furthermore, West called for a comprehensive approach to address the Niger Delta’s issues, highlighting the need for the government to fulfill the recommendations of past committees and to allocate operational rights in Oil Mining Leases (OML) to indigenous people of the region. He emphasized that pipeline surveillance, often cited as a concession to the Niger Delta, was insufficient, and that genuine empowerment and resource control were essential for addressing the region’s challenges.

Reflecting on the legacy of Isaac Adaka Boro, West underscored the enduring relevance of Boro’s demands for fiscal federalism and greater autonomy for resource-producing regions. He lamented the government’s historical neglect of these issues and called for a reevaluation of Nigeria’s federal structure to address the grievances of marginalized regions like the Niger Delta.

“Former Aide to Governor Uzodimma, Chinasa Nwaneri, Arrested Alongside Three Others for Alleged Fraudulent Activities”

The Imo State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of Chinasa Nwaneri, a former Special Adviser to Governor Hope Uzodimma on Special Duties, along with three others. Nwaneri was apprehended on Sunday by security operatives who tracked him to a hotel where he was lodging.

According to sources, Governor Uzodimma, upon assuming duty as commissioner for lands, discovered through certain documents that his signature had allegedly been forged.

In a statement released, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Imo State Command, ASP Henry Okoye, confirmed Nwaneri’s arrest. Okoye stated that Nwaneri was being held in custody over allegations of “malicious damage, fraudulent activities, obtaining money under false pretense, and illegal use of government power/authority to harass, intimidate, and frustrate the citizens of Imo State.”

The statement further mentioned that the investigation into the matter was still ongoing, with assurances that further developments would be communicated in due course.

“Akwa Ibom Government Warns Sterling Global Petrochemical Company Over Alleged Maltreatment of Indigenous Workers”

The Akwa Ibom State Government has issued a stern warning to Sterling Global Petrochemical Company, a foreign oil prospecting firm operating in the state, over reported cases of maltreatment of indigenous workers. The warning came after allegations of flagrant disrespect and non-compliance with rules of engagement by the company.

Chief Assam Assam, SAN, the Director General of Government Business and chairman of the mediation committee between the oil firm and the affected communities, issued the warning. He mandated the company to present the status of all workers, including expatriates, or face license and land revocation.

Assam condemned the alleged insensitivity of the firm and warned against any engagement of Akwa Ibom workers without fulfilling globally accepted conditions of employment. He emphasized that the government will not accept any act that reduces Akwa Ibom people to second-class citizens.

The Commissioner for Labour and Productivity, Mr Aniefiok Nkom, criticized Sterling Global for its irresponsibility in operations and disregard for court orders. He noted the company’s failure to pay tenement tax and PAYE tax to the State Government, alleging deliberate tax evasion.

Transition committee chairmen for affected local government areas commended the government for intervening in the situation, which they described as unbearable and lethal for their people.

During the meeting, Sterling Global’s Human Resource Manager, Mr David Walker, was asked to present the list of staff, but he claimed not to have it. However, he mentioned that 3,710 people are working on the company’s projects. Walker also presented the company’s conditions of service, which he clarified were only for nationals and did not include expatriates.

The Akwa Ibom State Government’s warning underscores its commitment to protecting the rights and welfare of its citizens and ensuring that companies operating within its jurisdiction adhere to established laws and regulations.

“House of Representatives Calls on Nigerian Government to Enhance Security Measures in Kogi State Amid Banditry and Kidnapping Concerns”

The House of Representatives has issued a plea to the Nigerian Government, urging it to bolster security efforts in Kogi State amidst rising incidents of banditry and kidnapping. The call for increased security measures comes in response to growing concerns over the safety and security of residents in the state.

Members of the House highlighted the alarming prevalence of banditry and kidnapping activities in Kogi State, which have posed significant threats to the lives and property of citizens. The escalating security challenges have instilled fear and anxiety among the populace, necessitating urgent intervention from the government.

During deliberations, representatives emphasized the need for proactive and decisive action to address the root causes of insecurity in the state. They underscored the importance of deploying adequate security personnel and resources to combat criminal elements and restore law and order in affected areas.

Furthermore, lawmakers stressed the importance of fostering collaboration between relevant security agencies, local authorities, and community stakeholders to enhance intelligence gathering, surveillance, and response mechanisms. They emphasized the imperative of adopting a comprehensive approach to security that incorporates both preventive and responsive measures.

The House of Representatives reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of all Nigerians, particularly those residing in regions grappling with insecurity. Members called on the Nigerian Government to prioritize the protection of lives and property in Kogi State and to take decisive steps to curb the menace of banditry and kidnapping.