Daniel Bwala, a former spokesperson for ex-Vice President Atiku Abubakar, recently visited President Bola Tinubu to express solidarity and support for his administration’s efforts to address various national issues. Bwala, who has officially left the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), is planning to join the All Progressives Congress (APC).

During his visit, Bwala praised President Tinubu’s steps to tackle challenges such as hunger, transportation issues, and minimum wage concerns. He acknowledged the difficulties of reform but highlighted the President’s proactive measures, including the recent minimum wage law and food aid distributions. Bwala also commended the Supreme Court’s decision on Local Government Autonomy, which he believes strengthens grassroots governance.

Bwala emphasized that his shift to APC is driven by a desire to support the current administration and contribute to national development, rather than purely political motivations. He expressed confidence in President Tinubu’s grasp of the country’s issues and his commitment to addressing them.

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has announced a vacation from August 5 to September 6, 2024, and will temporarily transfer his duties to Deputy Governor Bayo Lawal during this period. This decision was communicated through a letter read by Speaker Adebo Ogundoyin during a plenary session on July 25, 2024. Governor Makinde will return to his role on September 7, 2024.

The move is part of routine governance protocols aimed at ensuring stability and continuity in the administration. Speaker Ogundoyin expressed confidence in Deputy Governor Lawal’s ability to manage the state’s affairs effectively during Makinde’s absence. This transition underscores the importance of maintaining smooth governance operations even during periods of personal leave for state leaders.

Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin, the Secretary to the Lagos State Government, has called for peaceful protests and cautioned against any demonstrations that might lead to the destruction of public property. Speaking on July 24, 2024, she emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and ensuring that protests do not disrupt the services and facilities currently enjoyed by residents.

Salu-Hundeyin referenced the 2020 #EndSARS protests, which saw significant damage to public infrastructure, including the Lagos Bus Rapid Transit terminal and the state’s DNA and Forensic Laboratory. She urged that future protests should be conducted peacefully to avoid repeating such destruction.

She acknowledged citizens’ right to protest but stressed that this right should not be exercised through violence or vandalism. The Lagos State Government, she pointed out, is committed to fulfilling its obligations to its citizens, including paying pensions and advancing various development projects like the blue line rail and the new insurance medical schemes.

In a related development, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has denied any involvement in the upcoming nationwide protest against economic hardship. NLC President Joe Ajaero clarified that while the union is aware of the economic difficulties facing Nigerians, it is not organizing or endorsing the protest.

Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu has urged the Southeast region to abstain from participating in planned anti-government protests, emphasizing trust in President Bola Tinubu’s administration and its reform agenda. This plea follows Tinubu’s recent signing of the South East Development Commission (SEDC) bill into law, which Kalu views as a significant step toward addressing regional grievances and fostering development.

In his statement on July 24, Kalu highlighted that the SEDC bill is designed to address ecological and infrastructural challenges in the Southeast, aiming to heal past wounds and combat the perception of marginalization. He encouraged the public to view this legislative move as a commitment to equitable growth and socio-cultural renewal.

Kalu also appealed to all Nigerians to support the administration’s reform efforts, which he believes will lead to economic stability, reduced inflation, and job creation through initiatives like the SEDC. He called for unity and patience during this period of implementation, urging the nation to focus on progress rather than division.

The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) has confirmed that three site workers died following the collapse of a building at Arowojobe Estate in the Maryland area of Lagos. The incident occurred at No 13, Wilson Mba Street, and involved a set of three terraces under construction.

LASEMA’s Permanent Secretary, Dr. Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, reported that the agency received the distress call at 3:49 a.m. and activated its response team immediately. Upon arrival, the team began search and rescue operations, leading to the recovery of three deceased individuals and the rescue of three others—two of whom were alive and one who was found alive but in critical condition.

The rescued individuals are receiving pre-hospital care on site, and the Lagos State Fire Service, along with LASEMA and the Nigeria Police, is working at the scene. An excavator has been deployed to assist in the rescue efforts. The State Environmental Health Monitoring Unit has been contacted to manage the remains of the deceased.

Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has urged those planning protests against President Bola Tinubu’s administration to carefully reconsider their actions. Drawing parallels to the #EndSARS movement, Uzodimma highlighted concerns about the risks of protests being hijacked by criminal elements, which could undermine the intended goals and exacerbate existing challenges.

Uzodimma expressed doubts about the motivations behind the planned protests, noting that organizers have not clearly communicated their reasons to the public. He stressed the importance of ensuring that any protest is well-conceived and has clear, articulated demands to avoid unnecessary escalation and potential violence.

He also cautioned about the fragile political environment and security challenges facing the country, suggesting that poorly managed protests could destabilize the nation further. Uzodimma emphasized the need for protests to be conducted in a manner that does not worsen the current economic hardships and called for clear, constructive dialogue to address grievances.

President Bola Tinubu has pledged to enhance the Nigeria Police Force’s (NPF) capabilities by providing additional weapons, training, and personnel to combat crime more effectively. This commitment was made during the inauguration of the Nigeria Police Force National Cyber Crime Centre (NPF-NCCC) and the Nigeria Police Force Resource Centre in Abuja.

The NPF-NCCC aims to strengthen national security and align with the broader policy objectives of reforming the Nigeria Police Force. The centre is intended to address the increasing threats from cybercriminals, online financial fraudsters, and cyber terrorists who exploit the internet for destabilizing activities.

Tinubu highlighted the impact of emerging technologies, the COVID-19 pandemic, and 5G technology on the expansion of cyber-based threats. He emphasized that the government is revising its National Cybercrime strategies to better protect cyberspace and promote a secure digital economy.

The president urged Inspector-General of Police Olukayode Egbetokun to effectively utilize the new facilities to enhance cybersecurity and national development. He called for a collaborative approach among all security agencies to address complex security challenges and eliminate interagency rivalries.

Egbetokun noted that the NPF-NCCC would revolutionize policing in Nigeria by leveraging technology, innovation, and partnerships to tackle cybercrimes, marking a significant step in the Nigeria Police’s commitment to addressing digital security threats.

The Nigerian military has issued a strong warning regarding the upcoming nationwide protest against economic hardship. Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, expressed concerns that some elements are planning to hijack the protest and turn it into a violent event. This potential for violence could harm innocent Nigerians and their businesses.

General Buba cautioned that while citizens have the right to peaceful protest, the military will not tolerate any form of violence or anarchy. He compared the potential situation to recent violent protests in Kenya, emphasizing that the military will not allow such chaos to unfold in Nigeria. The General also highlighted the severe consequences of war and anarchy, drawing from the military’s experiences in peacekeeping missions.

In response to the planned protests, President Bola Tinubu, state governors, and the APC have urged Nigerians to reconsider participating. The protest, dubbed ‘EndBadGovernance,’ is scheduled to take place across Nigeria and the FCT in August, and is driven by widespread discontent over economic issues such as the removal of the petrol subsidy and unification of forex windows, which have led to soaring prices of essential goods.

Chief Gbenga Eleduma, a prominent APC chieftain, has praised Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa for approving an additional ₦2 billion in intervention funds aimed at enhancing food security and alleviating economic hardships in the state. Eleduma highlighted that the governor’s initiatives have significantly benefited farmers and residents, ensuring continued food supply amid current challenges.

Eleduma described Aiyedatiwa’s leadership as people-centered and development-oriented, urging other leaders and well-to-do Nigerians to follow his example. He also encouraged the people of Ondo State to re-elect Aiyedatiwa in the upcoming November 16 governorship election, promising more developmental programs if he is granted another term.

The intervention funds are part of Aiyedatiwa’s broader efforts to support the state’s economy and agricultural sector, reflecting his commitment to addressing the needs of the people.

Filmmakers and industry stakeholders have urged the Federal Government to retain the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) despite plans to dissolve it as outlined in the Oronsaye Report. They argue that the NFVCB plays a crucial role in regulating Nigeria’s film industry, Nollywood, which is a significant contributor to the national economy and a major employer of labor.

Veteran filmmaker Paul Apel-Papel emphasized the board’s role in maintaining the industry’s standards and advocated for its continued existence, even suggesting the establishment of a dedicated ministry for Nollywood. He highlighted the board’s importance in fostering the industry’s growth and promoting Nigeria’s image globally.

Habib Mohammed, National President of the Motion Picture Practitioners Association of Nigeria (MOPPAN), expressed concerns that merging the board into a ministry would set back the industry’s progress. He urged policymakers and the National Assembly to ensure the board retains its independent statutory position.

Emeke Aduah, acting President of the Film Video Producers and Marketers Association of Nigeria (FVPMAN), warned that dissolving the board could lead to increased piracy and a surge of illicit films, jeopardizing the industry’s integrity and investment.

The recent directive by George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, to dissolve the NFVCB and subsume it within the Ministry of Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy, has faced backlash. Stakeholders argue that such a move should follow a legal process, including the repeal of the act that established the board. The Nigerian Senate has also called for a halt to the dissolution process, citing legal concerns.

The NFVCB, established by Act No.85 of 1993 (amended in 2004), is responsible for regulating the film and video industry in Nigeria, including classification and registration of films and video outlets.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has appointed Ojukaye Flag-Amachree to its campaign council for the upcoming governorship election in Edo State. This appointment, confirmed by a letter from the APC’s National Organising Secretary, Sulaiman Muhammad Argungu, recognizes Flag-Amachree’s long-standing commitment to the party and his impressive political track record.

Flag-Amachree, a former political associate of Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, has aligned himself with the political camp of the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike. His appointment is expected to harness his extensive experience in political campaigns and elections to secure a win for the APC’s candidate in Edo State.

The letter from the APC emphasizes Flag-Amachree’s role in leveraging his political acumen and influence to ensure a successful campaign.

Notably, Flag-Amachree has faced legal challenges in the past, including murder charges related to the 2015 general elections in Buguma, Rivers State. However, he has since been cleared by the court.

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Kano State secured the conviction of 22 drug dealers in July 2024, marking a significant victory in its ongoing battle against drug trafficking and abuse. Kano NDLEA Commander Abubakar Idris-Ahmad disclosed this achievement while briefing journalists on Thursday.

Among the convicted individuals, Abubakar Mu’azu’s arrest was particularly notable due to a violent incident where he stabbed an NDLEA officer. Mu’azu was sentenced to three years in a correctional facility, while the other convicts received various prison terms. Idris-Ahmad highlighted that Mu’azu was found with multiple illicit substances at the time of his arrest.

Idris-Ahmad reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to combating drug trafficking and abuse, emphasizing that their efforts would not be deterred by intimidation or violence. He commended the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the NDLEA, retired Brig.-Gen. Mohammed Buba-Marwa, for his steadfast support in this fight.

“Our operatives are trained professionals who will stop at nothing to ensure that those who engage in drug-related offences face the full wrath of the law,” Idris-Ahmad stated.

He also called for public support, urging citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities related to drug abuse and trafficking to the NDLEA.

Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike has urged residents not to partake in the planned protest over hunger and insecurity, slated to begin on August 1. During an inspection of the ongoing construction of Saburi Road in Abuja, Wike emphasized that the current hardships are temporary and assured that President Bola Tinubu’s administration is working diligently to address these issues.

Wike characterized the protest as a politically motivated effort to destabilize Tinubu’s administration, asserting that those promoting it are not acting in the best interests of Nigeria or its citizens. He appealed for patience, highlighting that the government’s ongoing reforms and policies will soon yield positive results.

“The government is aware of the hunger and that is why it is working hard to find a lasting solution to the problem. I know that hunger makes people lose patience. Please be patient. That is all I am asking. This hunger will reduce very soon,” Wike said.

In response to residents’ requests for a police station and health facility in Saburi, Wike assured them of the government’s commitment to addressing their needs. He promised the construction of a police station, while Christopher Maikalangu, Chairman of Abuja Municipal Area Council, pledged to construct a health facility. Wike also assured the community that the road project would be completed as scheduled, noting that work has been continuous since its commencement.

Mixed reactions continue to trail the planned nationwide protest called by some unnamed groups over the current hardship in Nigeria. The protest, scheduled for August 1, has generated diverse opinions across the country, as reported by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).

In Ibadan, some respondents opposed the protest, citing potential disruptions to daily activities and the risk of criminal activities. Toyin Olutimilehin, a civil servant, expressed concerns about the protest affecting work schedules and causing traffic obstructions. Folarin Babatunde, another civil servant, argued that the protest might serve as an excuse for youths to exhibit their presence and for criminals to engage in unlawful activities. He highlighted the risks of vandalism and property destruction, questioning the effectiveness of protests in solving the country’s issues.

Similarly, Olanrewaju Temitope, a trader, worried about the impact of the protest on her business. She feared potential looting and property damage, which could affect her income and ability to pay rent. She urged Nigerians to reconsider the protest, believing it would not solve their problems.

On the other hand, some individuals supported the protest, viewing it as a legitimate means to voice grievances. Ifeanyi Eze, a youth corps member, supported the protest wholeheartedly, emphasizing the need for the country to address the distress and hardship faced by its citizens. He believed the protest would at least draw attention to the demand for change.

Steven Ayobami, a passerby, also supported the protest due to the economic hardship affecting middle-class and poor families. He highlighted the growing disparity between the rich and the poor and called for action to achieve a better life for Nigerians.

As opinions remain divided, the outcome of the planned protest and its impact on the nation’s socio-economic landscape remain to be seen.

The Progressives Governors’ Forum (PGF) has urged Nigerians to remain patient as President Bola Tinubu’s reforms face initial challenges. Following a closed-door meeting on Wednesday night, the governors, elected on the All Progressives Congress (APC) platform, expressed optimism about the country’s future despite current economic difficulties.

Addressing journalists, PGF Chairman and Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma acknowledged the teething problems associated with the government’s new policies but assured the nation that these measures would eventually lead to prosperity.

“We have looked at the various policies of this government, and we acknowledge a teething problem associated with the initial stage of the programme. We agree that because we are very hopeful, it is also the solution to the current problem and economic hardship that has befallen our country,” Uzodimma said.

Governor Uzodimma appealed to Nigerian youths to refrain from participating in planned demonstrations, urging them to give the government a chance to address the nation’s issues. He emphasised the importance of unity and patriotism, stating, “We use this opportunity to advise our young boys and girls, young men and women, to desist from being instigated into causing crisis or chaos in the country.”

Highlighting the suffering Nigerians have already endured due to the global economic recession, insecurity, and political tension, Uzodimma called for support for the government’s efforts. “Our citizens must take ownership of this country. We have no other country we can call our own. We took the opportunity also to agree to explain to the larger Nigerians that this government is doing well,” he added.

The governors reiterated their call for patience and support, assuring the public that with these, the nation’s economic situation will improve and bring about the desired prosperity.