Author: Idowu Bankole
Surviving Economic Hardship in Nigeria By Dayo Johnson; Rotimi Ojomoyela; Peter Duru; Marie-Therese Nanlong; Egufe Yafuborghi; Emma Unah; Chioma Onuegbu; James Ogunnaike; Steve Oko; Shina Abubakar; Ibrahim Hassan-Wuyo; Laolu Elijah & Adeola Badru The current economic challenges in Nigeria, exacerbated by rising fuel prices and food inflation, have compelled many Nigerians to find innovative ways to survive. From resorting to animal feeds for sustenance to selling personal belongings for extra income, the hardship has led to extreme measures for survival. Many individuals have abandoned their cars in favor of public transportation, while some have taken up urban farming to make…
By Ugochukwu Alaribe Ensuring a peace-driven independence for Biafra Chief Ralph Uwazuruike, the founder of the Biafra Independence Movement, BIM, has voiced concerns about Simon Ekpa, the self-acclaimed prime minister of Biafra in exile. Uwazuruike believes Ekpa’s approach is more confusing than helpful in the fight for Biafran independence. During the 25th anniversary of MASSOB/BIM, Uwazuruike emphasized that a non-violent strategy is crucial in achieving Biafra’s liberation. Uwazuruike assured unity among pro-Biafra groups, stating that independence is within reach. The new Biafran government, led by Prime Minister Ezinne Uwaezuoke David, includes representatives from various regions of Biafra, symbolizing inclusivity and…
The Battle of Petrol Pricing: NNPCL vs. Dangote Refinery By Emeka Anaeto, Business Editor, Udeme Akpan, Energy Editor and Yinka Kolawole In the midst of supply challenges in the downstream petroleum sector, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) and Dangote Refinery are at odds over determining an acceptable petrol price. The bone of contention revolves around balancing market dynamics with social impact and affordability, leading to a stalemate in negotiations. NNPCL seeks a subsidy-compatible pricing, while Dangote leans towards market-reflective pricing, causing a gridlock. However, both parties are now working towards a middle ground to ensure supply stability and…
By Esther Onyegbula In a shocking incident in Akure, a 30-year-old motorcyclist, Michael Olorunfemi, was arrested for raping his wife’s 17-year-old sister in the bushes of Ondo State capital. The crime took place in August 2024 at 10 p.m. where the suspect, a father of four, confessed to the act. Olorunfemi revealed that he had promised the victim money to take her to her boyfriend’s house but instead raped her near a bush on their way. The victim reported him to her mother, leading to his arrest and subsequent court appearance. Police prosecutor, Inspector Taiwo Oniyere, stated that the defendant…
Afenifere Plans New Political Party, Accuses Tinubu’s Administration of Fascism Afenifere, a Yoruba socio-cultural organization, has criticized President Bola Tinubu’s administration, likening it to the days of Gen. Sanni Abacha’s dictatorship. The group revealed plans to establish a political party to compete in the 2027 general election. The National Publicity Secretary, Justice Faloye, condemned Tinubu’s government, citing harassment and detention of critics and peaceful protesters as evidence of fascism. Afenifere aims to uphold democratic principles and advocate for constitutional reform, inspired by late Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s ideologies. Addressing rumors of internal division, Faloye assured that Afenifere remains united despite fringe…
Tinubu’s Government Criticized by Gani Adams for Indifference and Insensitivity The Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams, expressed his disappointment with the administration led by President Bola Tinubu, stating that it is becoming indifferent, insensitive, and unresponsive to the hardships faced by Nigerians. In an open letter titled ‘President Bola Tinubu, Time is Going,’ Adams criticized the current government for failing to address the economic challenges that citizens are grappling with. Adams highlighted the deteriorating economic conditions that have been exacerbated by the administration’s policies, particularly the significant increase in fuel prices and the devaluation of the Naira.…
Ensuring Citizenship Rights for Children: An Urgent Call from NOA and UNICEF The National Orientation Agency (NOA) is teaming up with UNICEF to urge Nigerian parents to prioritize registering their children’s birth. In a recent event in collaboration with the National Population Commission (NPC), the focus was on free registration for children aged 0-5 years. At the NOA head office in Osogbo, Osun State, stakeholders gathered to discuss the importance of birth registration. NOA State Director, Bola Morgan, emphasized that every child has the fundamental right to be registered. This initiative aims to provide children with a National Identification Number…
Bandits Strike in Kaduna Communities: 7 Killed, Many Abducted By Ibrahim Hassan-Wuyo Reports from Kallah Afogo Community in Kaduna State reveal that bandits have killed six individuals and abducted several others in a devastating attack. The incident occurred late on Sunday night, with the bandits breaking into homes and taking locals captive. Among the deceased in Kallah were identified individuals, with one local losing his life while attempting to confront the bandits. In a separate attack in Bakin Pah, one person was killed, and six individuals were abducted. Local resident Maigari Ben has called for increased security measures in the…
The Borno Government has taken proactive measures in response to the devastating floods that have affected many residents in the state. Due to the ongoing flooding, all public and private primary and secondary schools have been closed for two weeks. The closure is aimed at ensuring the safety and well-being of students, teachers, and staff members. In a statement by the Acting Director of Schools Services, Grema Bulama, the decision to close schools was made in light of the adverse effects of the floods that have displaced many people across the state. The closure will last until Monday, September 23,…
By Femi Bolaji Breaking News: Troops Arrest Suspected Female Kidnapper Informant in Taraba State In a recent development, troops of the 6 Brigade of the Nigerian Army have apprehended a suspected female kidnapper informant in Taraba State. The suspect, Markus Grace, was captured in Sondi Village of Wukari Local Government Area. The suspect, who is confirmed to be the girlfriend of a notorious kidnapper named Chen, was reportedly aiding kidnappers and criminal elements in the area. Following an intelligence-led operation on September 6, 2024, she was taken into custody for further investigation. In a separate operation, troops halted a suspicious…