“House of Representatives Committee Summons DISCOs and GENCOs Over Alleged Failure in Corporate Social Responsibility”

The House of Representatives Committee on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has taken action against electricity distribution companies (DISCOs) and generation companies (GENCOs) for their purported failure to fulfill corporate social responsibility commitments in host communities. The committee expressed dissatisfaction with the non-appearance of the chief executive officers (CEOs) of DISCOs and GENCOs at its invitations.

During an investigation into DISCOs’ compliance with corporate social responsibility requirements in their host communities, committee member Obiageli Orogbu revealed the committee’s frustration. She criticized DISCOs for sending junior managers without proper authorization and expressed disappointment at the absence of representatives from GENCOs.

Orogbu also noted the companies’ failure to submit their five-year audited accounts and detailed reports on corporate social responsibility activities in host communities. As a result, she directed the committee’s Clerk, Mr. Emmanuel Chukwu, to issue another summons to DISCOs and GENCOs for appearance in June.

She warned that failure to comply with the summons would prompt the committee to take necessary measures to ensure their appearance. Orogbu reiterated that the meeting aimed to assess DISCOs’ and GENCOs’ interactions with host communities regarding corporate social responsibility initiatives.

She emphasized the committee’s mandate from the House leadership and expected full cooperation from the electricity companies in the investigation.

The Federal Government has issued a public alert regarding an outbreak of poison in animals at the Mandate Cattle Market located near the College of Arabic and Islamic Legal Studies Adewole in Ilorin, Kwara State. Mr. Temitope Fashedemi, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, conveyed this information in a statement released on Thursday in Abuja.

According to Fashedemi, the preliminary investigation indicates that the animals were exposed to poison after grazing on forage that had been fumigated with organophosphate chemicals. This exposure led to the outbreak of poisoning, resulting in the mortality of cattle herds at the market on April 20. The clinical signs observed among the affected animals included hypersalivation and weakness.

In response to the situation, the Kwara State Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development reported that, upon noticing the symptoms, the herders decided to slaughter seven of the severely affected animals for public consumption. This decision poses significant public health risks, as consuming meat from poisoned animals can have severe consequences within the food chain.

To address the issue, the Rapid Response Team (RRT) in every state of the Federation, comprising Federal Epidemiology Officers, State Directors of Veterinary Services, and State Epidemiology Officers, has been placed on alert. In Kwara State, the RRT, in collaboration with the State Government’s Task Force, has taken swift action to trace and confiscate the meat from the slaughtered animals. The meat was subsequently disposed of in an environmentally friendly manner to prevent further health risks.

Additionally, efforts have been made to treat suspected poisoned animals with organophosphate antidotes. Forty animals showing signs of poisoning were administered treatment, leading to an improvement in their health and eventual recovery.

The situation underscores the importance of vigilance in ensuring the safety of food sources and the need for prompt response to incidents that pose risks to public health. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and take necessary measures to mitigate the impact of the poisoning outbreak in the affected area.

Ahead of commencement of construction works on rural roads in Ekiti State, the State Coordinator of Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP), Sunday Adunmo, has inaugurated the Grievance Redress Committee (GRC).

He charged the committee not to deviate from its terms of reference.

Adunmo who gave the charge in Ado Ekiti while inaugurating the Grievance Redress Committee on Wednesday stated that its main responsibility is to address grievances that might arise during the implementation of the project in the benefitting communities.

He noted that any crises arising in any of the project sites must be well managed as failure to do so might result in an automatic stoppage of all project sites located in the state.

The project coordinator, who noted that there might be agitations from farmers whose farms would be affected by construction works, assured that work would not begin until compensation is paid to identified farm owners.

Adunmo who stressed the need to resolve complaints and grievances related to the RAAMP project, urged the committee to be fair to all and handle the responsibility conscientiously as the success of the project depends on the support from benefitting communities.

The project coordinator urged the committee to sensitise the benefiting communities on certain areas of construction especially right of way which many farmers may misunderstand.

The five-member GRC members are the State Project Implementation Unit are the State Project Coordinator, Hon Sunday Adunmo; the Social Safeguard Officer, Mrs Bukola Ezieke; the Gender Based Violence (GBV) Officer, Mrs Bunmi Adeosun; the Environmental Safeguard Officer, Bukola Olukoya and the Development Communication Officer, O’Seun Ogunsakin.

Earlier, the Social Safeguard Officer, Ezieke, had inaugurated the GRC in the 13 benefitting communities, with a charge to treat grievances confidentially, impartially, and transparently.

She said since GRM is a tool for preventing any form of crisis that could hinder the success of the project, the community-based GRC members must work to ensure prompt response to the needs of all complainants.

The communities where the social safeguard officer inaugurated GRM committees are Omisanjana and Igirigiri in Ado Ekiti, Erinmope Ekiti, Ikere Ekiti, Afolu in Ise Ekiti, Osi Ekiti, and Emure Ekiti.

“The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, Unveils Nigerian National Information Portal as Official Digital Gateway to Nigeria”

During the Ministerial Sectoral Briefings to mark the first anniversary of the Tinubu Administration, Minister Idris introduced the Nigerian National Information Portal as the official digital gateway offering comprehensive information about Nigeria. The portal serves as a centralized source catering to both local and international audiences, providing reliable and current information on various aspects of the nation, including the government, the Nigerian people, their cultural heritage, and more.

In his address, Minister Idris highlighted the significance of the portal in offering easy access to essential information about Nigeria. He emphasized the importance of the portal’s relaunch, underscoring its role in providing insight into the government’s activities, Nigeria’s diverse culture, and the lives of its citizens.

The minister invited attendees to applaud the unveiling of the new National Information Portal, emphasizing its importance as a valuable resource for accessing information about Nigeria. The portal’s link, www.nigeria.gov.ng, was provided for immediate access.

Furthermore, Minister Idris outlined various landmark initiatives and programs initiated by the Tinubu Administration aimed at improving the lives and livelihoods of Nigerians. These initiatives encompassed sectors such as consumer credit, education, agriculture, infrastructure development, energy, fiscal policy, and more. He reiterated the administration’s commitment to reducing the cost of living and doing business in Nigeria, attracting investments, and enhancing infrastructure development.

The first anniversary of the administration’s tenure presented an opportunity to present its achievements to the Nigerian people and demonstrate progress made in fulfilling pledges and promises. The Sectoral Briefings featured key ministers providing updates on various sectors, showcasing the administration’s efforts towards achieving its objectives and delivering on its promises to the citizens.

The enactment of the New Kano Emirate Councils Law marks a significant shift in the governance structure of the Kano Emirate and has far-reaching implications for the traditional leadership in the region. The law not only reinstates the five demoted kingmakers to their former positions but also grants them the authority to reconvene and reinstall Muhammadu Sanusi, the former Central Bank of Nigeria governor, as the sole Emir of Kano.

One of the key provisions of the law is the directive for the Governor to take all necessary measures to restore the Kano Emirate System to its previous positions before the enactment of the repealed Principal Law dated 5th December, 2019. This provision effectively gives the State Government the power to reappoint Sanusi as the Emir of Kano, reversing the actions taken following his removal from the throne in 2020.

Furthermore, the law stipulates that traditional office holders and title holders who were elevated or appointed under the repealed Principal Law shall revert to their positions as per recognized customs and traditions prior to the enactment of the repealed law. This provision ensures the reinstatement of the demoted kingmakers to their former roles, granting them the authority to participate in the selection process for the new Emir.

The reappointment of the demoted kingmakers and their empowerment to choose the new Emir, subject to the endorsement of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, underscores the significance of traditional leadership and the role of customary practices in the selection of Emirs in Kano. This process aligns with established traditions and ensures continuity in the leadership of the Kano Emirate.

Additionally, the law mandates the commissioner responsible for Local Government to oversee all transitional arrangements, including the handling of assets and liabilities of the abolished emirates and the new structure created under the repealed Principal Law. This provision aims to facilitate a smooth transition and ensure the effective implementation of the changes mandated by the new law.

Overall, the New Kano Emirate Councils Law represents a significant step in restoring traditional leadership structures and practices in Kano. It reaffirms the importance of customary norms and traditions in the selection of Emirs and seeks to address the disruptions caused by previous legislative changes to the governance of the Kano Emirate.

During the Ministerial Sectoral Updates held in Abuja to commemorate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s one year in office, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, made significant announcements and provided insights into the achievements and plans of the FCT administration.

One of the major announcements made by Minister Wike was the provision of two months of free train rides for Nigerians in the nation’s capital. This initiative is part of the celebration of President Tinubu’s one year in office and aims to alleviate the transportation burden on residents of the FCT. The free train rides will provide an opportunity for people to experience and utilize the public transportation system in Abuja without financial constraints.

Furthermore, Minister Wike highlighted the progress made in infrastructure development within the FCT. He expressed confidence that with the ongoing infrastructural projects, Abuja would soon be able to compete with other global cities in terms of road network. The removal of the FCT from the Treasury Single Account (TSA) by President Tinubu was also emphasized as a strategic move that has facilitated the achievements of the FCT administration.

Regarding the Abuja metro line, Minister Wike clarified that President Tinubu would commission its commercial operation, not just the infrastructure, as had been done previously. This signifies a significant milestone in the transportation sector of the FCT and is expected to enhance connectivity and mobility within the city. The announcement of free rides for two months on the metro line reflects the government’s commitment to providing accessible and efficient transportation services to the people.

Minister Wike also addressed other key areas such as security, education, and civil service reforms. He highlighted the efforts made to improve security infrastructure and logistics support for security agencies, leading to a reduction in crime rates in the FCT. Additionally, significant progress has been made in rehabilitating schools and implementing civil service reforms to provide hope and opportunities for FCT residents, including civil servants.

Overall, Minister Wike’s announcements and updates underscored the commitment of the FCT administration under President Tinubu to improving the quality of life and addressing the needs of the people of Abuja. The initiatives outlined reflect a comprehensive approach to governance, focusing on infrastructure development, transportation, security, education, and civil service reforms for the benefit of all residents.

The recent statements from British Defence Secretary Grant Shapps and President Joe Biden’s National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan highlight a growing divergence in perspectives between the UK and the US regarding China’s involvement in the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.

Shapps’s assertion that China is providing “lethal aid” to Russia for use in its war against Ukraine has raised eyebrows and sparked debate. During the London Defence Conference, Shapps claimed to have evidence suggesting collaboration between Russia and China on combat equipment destined for deployment in Ukraine. He pointed to a significant increase in trade between the two countries since the conflict began, suggesting a mutual support mechanism between them.

However, Shapps’s remarks were met with some skepticism by Sullivan, who challenged the assertion that China is directly providing weapons to Russia. While acknowledging concerns about China potentially supplying lethal assistance to Russia, Sullivan stated that there has been no evidence to confirm such actions thus far. Instead, he emphasized the US’s focus on China’s role in indirectly supporting Russia’s military efforts through contributions to Russia’s defense industry.

This disagreement underscores broader tensions within the international community regarding the roles and responsibilities of major powers in conflicts like the one unfolding in Ukraine. While both the UK and the US share concerns about China’s involvement in bolstering Russia’s military capabilities, they appear to differ in their assessments of the extent and nature of that support.

The statements from both sides also reflect the complexity of navigating diplomatic relations amid escalating global crises. As geopolitical dynamics continue to evolve, it remains crucial for countries to engage in open dialogue and collaboration to address shared challenges and mitigate the risk of further escalation.

Following the tragic helicopter crash that claimed the life of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi over the weekend, plans have been made for his burial in his hometown of Mashhad on Thursday. The burial ceremony is set to take place at the shrine of Imam Reza, the eighth Imam of Shia Islam, a revered religious site in Iran.

The funeral proceedings are expected to be attended by high-ranking representatives from friendly nations, with Russian parliamentary leader Vyacheslav Volodin among the dignitaries expected to pay their respects. Iran’s state railway company has made arrangements for special trains to transport mourners from Tehran to Mashhad, underscoring the widespread desire of Iranians to participate in the mourning process and pay their final respects to their late president.

The tragic helicopter crash not only claimed the life of President Raisi but also resulted in the loss of several other individuals, including the late foreign minister Hossein Amirabdollahian. The crash occurred while they were returning from a meeting with Ilham Aliyev, the president of Azerbaijan, and it is reported to have happened in dense clouds in the mountains.

The outpouring of grief and mourning for President Raisi and the other victims of the crash has been immense, with millions of mourners gathering for a funeral procession in Tehran. The Iranian government declared five days of national mourning following Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s order, and a nationwide holiday was observed on Wednesday to honor the memory of the deceased.

However, President Raisi’s death has also elicited mixed reactions within Iran. While supporters of the country’s Islamic regime have mourned the loss of an important political figure, critics have raised concerns about the increased repression witnessed during his administration. The diverse responses reflect the complex political landscape in Iran and the varying perspectives on Raisi’s tenure as president.

Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State delivered a compelling message during the ongoing two-day Economic and Investment Summit, expressing his confidence in the potential of the state to become a leading investment destination. Under the theme “Rivers Emerged: Pioneering Pathways to Economic Growth and Sustainability,” Governor Fubara emphasized his administration’s commitment to fostering a conducive business environment, particularly by prioritizing security.

Highlighting the state’s rich investment potential across various sectors such as oil and gas, agriculture, agro-processing, tourism, and education, the governor underscored his administration’s dedication to positioning Rivers State as an ideal hub for business activities. He lamented the decline of the state’s industrial sector, referencing the once-thriving Trans-Amadi Industrial Layout, which has seen many businesses close or become inactive over the years.

Governor Fubara acknowledged the historical significance of Rivers State, especially Port Harcourt, as a commercial center in Nigeria, and expressed determination to revitalize its industrial status. He stressed the importance of building a resilient, diversified economy for sustainable peace, security, and progress in the state. The governor promised to collaborate with both the public and private sectors to achieve this goal, emphasizing the need for partnerships to drive economic growth and development.

In conclusion, Governor Fubara expressed optimism that the Economic and Investment Summit would serve as a catalyst for Rivers State to emerge as a premier investment destination, offering abundant economic opportunities for both local and international investors. His commitment to restoring the state’s industrial glory reflects a proactive approach to addressing economic challenges and fostering sustainable development.

The Biafran Civil War, which occurred in Nigeria from 1967 to 1970, is a significant event in Nigerian history, particularly for the Igbo people who predominantly inhabited the secessionist state of Biafra. The anniversary of this war holds deep historical and emotional significance for many Biafrans, as it represents a period of great suffering, loss, and struggle for self-determination.

The call for Biafrans to observe a sit-at-home protest on the anniversary of the Civil War likely stems from a desire to honor the memory of those who lost their lives during the conflict and to raise awareness of the ongoing socio-political issues facing the region. By participating in such an observance, individuals may seek to commemorate the sacrifices made by their ancestors and to highlight the unresolved grievances that continue to affect the Igbo community and other marginalized groups in Nigeria.

It’s important to recognize that perspectives on the Biafran Civil War and its commemoration can vary widely among different individuals and groups. Some may view the sit-at-home protest as a meaningful form of remembrance and activism, while others may question its effectiveness or appropriateness in addressing contemporary challenges. Ultimately, discussions about how best to honor the legacy of the Civil War and promote reconciliation and justice in its aftermath are ongoing and complex.

The embattled traditional ruler of Ihekwuenu autonomous community in Aku, Igbo-Etiti Local Government Area of Enugu State, Igwe Christopher Okwor, has dismissed claims by the Ezemagu family that he demolished a blind man’s building.

DAILY POST reports that the Ezemagu family recently accused the police of conducting a biased investigation on the matter.

However, Igwe Okwor has come out to say the renewed campaign against him was orchestrated by Nnamdi Ezemagu as a ploy to wrestle a disputed piece of land from him, adding that Ezemagu frequently stirred public sentiment whenever the case which was pending in court was not in his favour.

He also said that the Ezemagu family had in the past vowed to dethrone him and they were throwing in everything within their reach to achieve their nefarious objective just because Chief Emmanuel Ezemagu, their father, lost the Igweship contest to him.

“The recent media reports about the demolition of the blind man’s house are a rehash of an incident from 2021, aimed at garnering public sympathy. I am saying for the umpteenth time that I did not demolish the blind man’s house,” he said.

Okwor recounted that when the initial incident occurred in 2021, the then-chairman of Igbo-Etiti Local Government Area, Nkechi Ugwu-Oju, provided N4 million for the construction of a new building for the blind man in an uncontested land.

“However, the Ezemagu family refused to use the funds.

“If they genuinely cared for the blind man, why insist on building on disputed land? This is not philanthropy but a strategy to claim the land. The blind man originally had a house that was demolished by the Ezemagu family, who then relocated him to the contested land,” Okwor continued.

“The motive behind all these is that they want to dethrone me as Igwe. They said they will never accept the fact that I defeated their father in the contest for Igweship and as such, they are doing everything to see that I am removed.

“That is even why this land issue started in the first place and that is why they are not relenting. But they have failed. They are setting me up by going to demolish the same house they are building for the blind man so that when they run to the media, people will be blaming me. It is not difficult to see through their scheming. But they cannot defeat the truth,” he claimed.

Igwe’s son, Chris Okwor, also recounted how the issue began: “In 2021, a long-standing land dispute led to threats against my father from Nnamdi Ezemagu. After Emmanuel Ezemagu, his uncle lost the Igweship to my father, tensions escalated. Ezemagu began construction near my father’s building site, leading to physical altercations and police intervention.

“Nnamdi Ezemagu falsely claimed that he had given land to my father and demanded that my father’s building be divided. Despite police orders to cease construction, Ezemagu continued building at night.

“Suddenly, we heard that the building has been pulled down and politicians who are unhappy with my father’s integrity used the situation to suspend him from his position, claiming turmoil in the community.”

He said that the Ezemagu family rejected the financial aid provided by the former Local Government Chairman due to political motivations and promises of a House of Assembly slot.

“Their actions were never about the blind man’s welfare but about securing the land and looking for situations to cause unrest in the community,” he alleged.

Chris noted that one of the blind man’s cousins, Mrs. Amuka, had evacuated him, expressing dissatisfaction with how the Ezemagu family exploited him for their personal gain.

The ongoing attempts to raise public sentiment, according to Chris, “are because the government is considering reinstating Igwe Okwor.

“I still recall that after Igwe’s suspension, the state government set up a committee to look into the matter, but unfortunately before the government could come up with their findings, the Ezemagu family brought police from Abuja and arrested him. They also went further to vandalise his house.”

He alleged that Nnamdi Ezemagu habitually attacks and blackmails anyone who stands for the truth, highlighting instances of media attacks orchestrated by Nnamdi Ezemagu against those perceived to be telling the truth.

He said, “Dr. Malachy Ugwu was attacked for leading a delegation to notify former Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi about the N4 million aid by the former Chairperson of Igbo-Etiti LGA, Mrs. Nkechi Ugwu-Oju.

“Also Chinedu Okike, former DPO Ogbede, was attacked in the media for reporting the land dispute and its legal status to the Police authorities.

“They also criticised the FCID Annex Enugu for investigating and charging Ezemagu and associates with various criminal offenses. The FCID Abuja was accused of bias for rejecting Ezemagu’s request to withdraw court cases and commence new investigations, including indefinite detention of Igwe’s son.

“They also went after Mr Emma Ochiagha- for advising all parties to steer clear of the disputed land, allowing the Umuezike community to intervene.”

Chris questioned why Nnamdi Ezemagu allegedly refused to allow the police and independent arbitrators to perform their duties impartially.

The Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy in Nigeria has set aside a significant sum of N3.7 billion for “research and development” activities. This allocation is part of the larger 2024 national budget totaling N28.7 trillion, which was signed into law by President Bola Tinubu earlier in the year. The budget increase, from an initial proposal of N27.5 trillion, sparked public debate, with allegations of padding by Senator Abdul Ningi.

The creation of the Ministry of Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy by President Tinubu represents a focused effort to elevate these sectors’ importance within the government’s agenda. Additionally, specific allocations within the budget highlight targeted investments in infrastructure and promotional activities. For instance, N160 million is earmarked for constructing a skill acquisition center for art and craft in Musawa Local Government Area (LGA) of Katsina State, while N290 million is allocated for solar street light construction in the same area, which happens to be the Minister’s home region.

Furthermore, the budget includes allocations for international engagements, such as N98 million for a “Nigerian pavilion” at the Cannes Film Festival in France and N150 million for the ministry’s information desk at the Abuja International Airport. These initiatives underscore efforts to promote Nigerian arts and culture on the global stage.

However, scrutiny has arisen regarding the overall efficiency and cost of governance under President Tinubu’s administration. Dr. Muktar Alkali of the Centre for Transparency and Accountability expressed disappointment, citing inefficiencies and high governance costs within some government agencies. This sentiment reflects broader concerns about the need for accountability and transparency in public spending, particularly in sectors crucial for national development.

In summary, while the allocation of funds for research and development in arts, culture, and creative economy sectors demonstrates a commitment to fostering innovation and growth, ongoing scrutiny of governance practices is essential to ensure effective utilization of resources for the benefit of Nigerian society.

A witness, Abraham Uwua, on Tuesday, admitted to a Benue State High Court in Makurdi that his testimony was based on information he received from his lawyer.

Uwua was testifying in a suit he filed alongside Terlumun Tyav, Terwase Zeku, and Pastor Cyprian Terwase against Peter Adejoh, Engr Mike Jijingi, the Government of Benue State, Commissioner for Land & Solid Minerals, Benue State, and Attorney General and Commissioner of Justice, Benue State.

When the matter came up for continuation of hearing, Uwua, who was led in evidence by his counsel, Doowuese Adike, adopted his witness statement before the court.

During cross-examination by counsel to Adejoh, Samuel Adama, Uwua was asked if all the information contained in his witness statement before the court were based on what he heard from the lawyer appointed by the community to negotiate compensation with the Benue State Government on their behalf over their land.

He answered in the affirmative.

Another witness, Zaki Gabriel Yagba, who claimed in his statement that Adejoh and officials of the Benue State Government brought police to chase them away from the disputed land, contradicted himself during cross-examination.

He told the court that he never saw Adejoh or officials of the Benue State Government with police or security personnel on their community land.

Yagba, who stated in his witness statement that he was one of those who signed the Power of Attorney given to Barrister Mbafan Ekpendu to represent the community in the negotiations, could not identify his signature when the document was shown to him.

The plaintiffs thereafter closed their case after the testimony of the two witnesses, which brought the total number of witnesses called by the plaintiffs to four.

The presiding judge, Justice Tertsea Kume, adjourned the matter until July 11, 2024, for the defendants to open their defense.

In the suit number MHC/179/23, the plaintiffs alleged that the Benue State Government wants to compulsorily acquire their ancestral land and sell it to a developer without payment of any form of compensation, among others.

They are seeking an order of interlocutory injunction restraining the defendants by themselves, their agents, or anyone acting by or through them from compulsorily taking over the communal land situated at Tse Agbuu, Mbachugh, Utuurn Community, and Ikyouv/Mbachugh, Utuurn Community, all of Bar Council Ward of Makurdi Local Government Area of Benue State, for any purpose other than overriding public interest, among others.

In his reply to the suit, the first defendant, Peter Adejoh, denied ever engaging anyone to use a bulldozer to destroy or grade the farm land, crops and economic trees of the plaintiffs.

He also averred that he has never at any time personally owned or possessed any land with the plaintiffs’ community or claims any form of interest or exercised any act of ownership in respect of same.