Kogi State Government has uncovered Zango market near Osara in Adavi local government as hideout used by criminals, including Kidnappers for nefarious activities. “Intelligence reports indicate that criminal elements have been using the market as a hideout, often in collaboration with some truck drivers who park along the roadside. This situation poses a significant security threat to the Confluence University of Science and Technology, Osara, and the broader Osara community.” The State Commissioner for information, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, in a statement today, December 4, said that the Kogi State Government has ordered the immediate closure of the said market and also banned the roadside parking of trucks in the vicinity of the market, in response to the growing security concerns in Osara and its surrounding areas. “To ensure strict compliance, the State Government has given market operators and truck drivers a one-week grace period, starting today, to adhere to these directives. After this period, enforcement will be fully implemented.” The statement said that the state governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo has directed the Secretary to the State Government to officially communicate this order to all relevant parties, including law enforcement agencies, to ensure seamless compliance. “Additionally, the Governor has tasked the Office of the State Security Adviser with overseeing security operations in the affected areas during and after the grace period.” The State Government, in the statement, reassured residents of its unwavering commitment to safeguarding their lives and property. “Proactive measures will continue to be taken to ensure that criminal activities are eradicated, leaving no room for lawlessness in the state. “We also extend our gratitude to the citizens for their vigilance and active participation in the community-driven security framework. Your efforts in providing timely intelligence and activating grassroots security networks are invaluable to the success of our collective mission to keep Kogi safe.”
President Bola Tinubu has called on his South African counterpart, Cyril Ramaphosa to come together and go deep into lifting Africans from the dept of poverty and other misfortunes, irrespective of what it would cost them to do so. Speaking today, December 3, at the opening of the 11th session of the Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission (BNC) in Cape Town, President Tinubu stressed the urgent need for the two of them to overcome what he called “irritants” that hinder their collaboration and focus on transforming Africa’s global image. The Nigerian leader, who co-chaired the presidential BNC with his South African counterpart, highlighted the importance of cooperation between the continent’s two largest economies and its potential to redefine the global perception of the continent. “The continent looks up to us; we cannot afford to fail it. “We need to leverage the potentials of this partnership to strengthen economic, political, business-to-business, as well as people-to-people relationships between the two countries, bearing in mind the tremendous benefits it promises. “Our successes will change the negative narratives of seeing Africa as a country perpetually mired in poverty and conflict and with their leaders unable to offer the kind of transformational leadership the continent deserves. “As the adage goes, ‘the glory of the eagle does not please the kite,’ let us remain mindful of the overt and covert hostilities that the success of our partnership will attract. “If we are vigilant, committed and persistent, we will surely soar like the eagles over the reach of predators. So, we must remain strongly united on purpose.” Tinubu suggested to South Africa to champion Africa’s interests during its current G20 presidency, saying that Nigeria is ready to join the bloc alongside South Africa and the African Union. President Tinubu warned that the African countries involved should not count their successes by the number of MoUs and agreements signed, saying that such are mere papers “until we implement them in spirit and letters. This is the job of our senior officials, and I must implore them to redouble their efforts in this regard.” President Tinubu acknowledged that South African companies such as MTN and Multichoice have made significant inroads into the Nigerian market even as Nigerian businesses like Dangote Group and Access Bank have similarly extended their presence in South Africa. “But that is not enough. I cannot pretend that all has gone satisfactorily well. We can identify the gaps and challenges, including persistent irritants in our relations, and deal with them appropriately. This is the real essence of the BNC. “Together, we can act as engines of economic integration and development in our respective sub-regions as well as on the continent.” The Nigerian leader proposed joint action on mining to tackle illegal mining and enhance professional capacity development. “Our natural resources are supposed to be mined for the betterment of our people. However, there seems to be a concerted effort flowing in the opposite direction. Throughout Africa, illegal mining is not only robbing our nations of precious income, which could foster development. “Sponsored by powerful outside forces, such mining is fomenting strife, servitude, poverty, environmental degradation and undermining the writ of legitimate government. “We cannot allow this inland piracy to become a scourge to our good and healthy designs for our people. South Africa and Nigeria should and must take the lead in placing this issue before the global community and in resolving it for the good of our continent and its people.”
Federal House of Representatives have asked the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to suspend its alleged move to lay off over 1,000 workers, including Directors and top management staff. The directive followed a motion, titled: “Need to Investigate the Retirement of Over 1,000 Staff of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Associated N50 Billion Payoff Scheme,” presented at the plenary today, December 3, by Rep. Kama Nkemkama (LP-Ebonyi). The motion, presented under urgent public importance was promptly adopted. Nkemkama said that the proposed mass retirement of over 1,000 staff, including directors and senior management, raised critical questions, such as the criteria for selection, transparency, and adherence to due process in line with public service guidelines and labour laws. He said that such a significant decision has socio-economic implications for the affected individuals, their dependants, and the broader economy. He said that the move would potentially lead to increased unemployment and public dissatisfaction, even as he expressed worry that the reported payoff scheme amounting to N50 billion might lack sufficient accountability and oversight mechanisms. The lawmaker said that this would pose risks of mismanagement and abuse of public funds in a sector vital to Nigeria’s financial stability. Adopting the motion, the House constituted a high-level ad hoc committee to investigate the planned mass retirement of over 1,000 staff of the CBN The House said that the investigation would ascertain the criteria, process, and legality of the exercise. The House resolved to examine the N50 billion payoff scheme to ensure transparency, accountability and proper utilisation of funds. The House also resolved to engage the leadership of the CBN to evaluate the potential economic and institutional impact of mass retirement on Nigeria’s financial sector. It called on the CBN to suspend further implementation of the retirement exercise and associated payoff scheme pending the outcome of its committee’s investigation. The House further called on the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment to ensure that the rights of the affected staff were protected in accordance with Nigerian labour laws. It requested the committee to report back to the house within four weeks for further legislative actions.
The Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Dr. Aminu Maida has been appointed to the Board of Directors of the International Institute of Communications (IIC). Those who are familiar with such position said that the appointment of Dr. Maida has set the tone as an outstanding achievement for Nigeria as well as , lifting the country ‘s voice in shaping the future of the global telecom sector The International Institute of Communications (IIC) brings leaders in telecommunications, media, and technology (TMT) at round table and enhance collaborative efforts on regulatory frameworks, emerging technologies, and sustainable developments. The appointment of Dr. Wada Maida is believed to offer Nigeria a stronger international platform to influence key discussions on telecommunications and digital equity. Reacting to his appointment, Dr. Maida described it as an honour for him to serve on the Board of the International Institute of Communications. “I look forward to sharing insights from Nigeria’s transformative journey and collaborating on strategies to foster a more inclusive and sustainable global telecom industry.” The new role also showcases Nigeria’s growing prominence in its digital economy initiatives and leveraging technology for development.
Nigeria’s Presidency has made it clear that the present tax laws cannot continue to exist in view of the fact that they have become obsolete. “What is never in doubt is the imperative of changing the existing tax laws and administration that have become obsolete and unhelpful in achieving the growth and development we desire for our country.” The Presidency, in a statement by the presidential spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, reacting to the controversies trailing the new tax reform bills before the National Assembly, asked leaders across the country, including Governors, Traditional rulers, Civil Society Activists, Students, trade associations, professional associations, and the general public, to take advantage of the Public Hearings that the National Assembly will organise to present their views on how best to reform the nation’s taxes and fiscal regime. The presidency advised leaders to be more measured in their public utterances to avoid heating the polity and polarising the country unduly, especially in a period like this, “when our people across the country look up to leaders for guidance and direction on matters of public importance, such as the Tax Reform Bills” It stressed that relevant stakeholders and public analysts should properly educate themselves about the bills’ contents and avoid misleading the public for any reason. “We may be entitled to our opinions, but such views must be informed and based on facts, not emotions targeted at inflaming passions.” The presidency recalled that since the public debate around the transformative tax bills before the National Assembly began in the last few weeks, various political actors and commentators have tried to obfuscate the facts, deliberately misinforming and misleading the public. “Unfortunately, most reactions are not grounded in facts, reality, or sufficient knowledge of the bills. While some commentators have attempted to incite the people against lawmakers, others have polarized one section of the country against another. “The tax reform bills will not make Lagos or Rivers more affluent and other parts of the country, as recklessly canvassed, poorer. The bills will not destroy the economy of any section of the country. Instead, they aim to enhance the quality of life for Nigerians, especially the disadvantaged, who are trying to make a living. “Contrary to the lies being peddled, the bills do not suggest that NASENI, TETFUND, and NITDA will cease to exist in 2029 after the passage of the bills. “Government agencies, such as NASENI, TETFUND, and NITDA, are funded through budgetary provisions with company income tax and other taxes paid by the same businesses that are being overburdened with the special taxes. “One reason President Bola Tinubu embarked on the Tax and Fiscal Policy Reforms is the need to streamline tax administration in Nigeria and make the operating environment conducive for businesses. “For decades, businesses, investors, and private sector players in Nigeria have complained of being overburdened by a myriad of taxes and levies, including those earmarked to fund various government agencies and initiatives. “The multiple taxes complicate the economic environment, making Nigeria uncompetitive for investment and preventing many businesses from growing or continuing their operations. Some companies have had to make the rational decision to relocate to other countries. We can not continue on this path or wait for 20 years if this country is to deliver the prosperity we need for our people. “The proposal, as contained in section 59 (3) of the Nigeria Tax Bill, only seeks to consolidate some of the earmarked taxes imposed on companies and replace them with a single tax to be shared with the key agencies as beneficiaries in a phased manner until 2030. “The time frame offers ample opportunity for the affected agencies to explore other funding sources in addition to budgetary allocations in line with the constitution and international best practices. “It is a misrepresentation of facts to conclude that changing an agency’s funding source amounts to scrapping it. None of the countries leading globally in education, science, engineering, or information technology have similar earmarked taxes. “The government imposes major taxes, be it income tax, consumption tax, or other taxes, to channel resources to its areas of priority at the time. Imposing a separate tax to fund an agency is an aberration that has yet to yield results despite the huge burden on businesses. The tax bill seeks to address this problem.”
Speaker of the federal House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen has listed the woes being faced by local governments in Nigeria, including the erosion of democracy, lack of autonomy, inadequate funding and corruption. Speaking today, December 2, at the National Dialogue on local government and Constitutional amendment in Abuja, Abbas Tajudeen said that one of the most pressing issues has been the poor quality of elections into local government councils across the country. “This situation not only undermines the very essence of democracy but also raises serious concerns about the integrity and functionality of our local governance structures. When elections are characterized by a lack of competitiveness—wherein the ruling party sweeps all positions—it becomes evident that we are witnessing a mockery of democratic principles. “This scenario is not merely an embarrassment; it poses a significant threat to our democracy. It fosters an environment where undesirable elements infiltrate these councils, often lacking the necessary capacity and vision to govern effectively.
“Consequently, local governments become mere appendages of state governments or pawns in the hands of so-called godfathers who manipulate political outcomes for their own gain.” The Speaker stressed that local governments are supposed to be the closest tier of government to the people, playing an essential role in delivering services, fostering community development, and ensuring that citizens’ voices are heard at all levels of governance, and that they that they need to operate with a degree of autonomy that allows them to respond promptly and appropriately to the unique needs of their communities. “Sadly, in spite of the noble intentions of the drafters of our constitution in instituting the local government system, it is evident that there are significant challenges that hinder their effectiveness. Issues such as inadequate funding, lack of autonomy, insufficient capacity, usurpation of its functions by other levels of government, corruption, and many more, have plagued local governments for decades. “These challenges not only stifle local governance but also impede national development. The need for reform has never been more urgent. He emphasized that inadequate funding remains one of the most significant obstacles, saying that they often operate on budgets that are insufficient to meet their responsibilities. “This financial constraint limits their ability to deliver essential services such as education, healthcare, infrastructure development, and sanitation. “As a result, many communities continue to suffer from poor living conditions and lack access to basic amenities. He said that lack of autonomy is another critical issue facing local governments in Nigeria, adding that the current structure often places local administrations under the control of state governments, which can lead to interference in their operations and decision-making processes. “This lack of independence stifles innovation and accountability at the local level. “Additionally, insufficient capacity—both in terms of human resources and institutional frameworks—has hindered effective governance at the local level. Many local government officials lack the necessary training and skills required for efficient administration. This gap not only affects service delivery but also erodes public trust in local governance. Abbas Tajudeen acknowledged the recent efforts made by the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in strengthening the local government system. According to him, the recent Supreme Court judgment mandating the conduct of elections into the councils and direct disbursement of funds to them, has provided a significant legal framework that supports the autonomy and functionality of local governments across the country. “This landmark decision is a testament to our collective commitment to uphold democratic principles at all levels of governance. “However, while we celebrate these advancements, we must also acknowledge that the need for comprehensive reform has never been more urgent as some of the nagging issues still persist. Constitutional reforms are essential to address these challenges comprehensively. “We must advocate for greater financial autonomy for local governments by ensuring that they receive adequate funding directly from federal allocations without excessive state control. Additionally, we should explore mechanisms that empower local governments with more decision-making authority over their affairs. “Furthermore, investing in capacity building for local government officials is paramount. Training programs should be established to equip them with the skills needed for effective governance and service delivery. “Importantly, we must confront the the disgraceful poor conduct elections into the councils. We must find a way of instilling transparency, fairness and openess in the conduct of elections into local governments.doing this would require the understanding and colloborative efforts of the State governors and Houses of Assembly. “We must find a way of convincing them that a strenghtened local government system would relieve the States of unnecessary burdens and lead to grassroots development.”
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has drew attention to the danger constituted by the waterway linking Kogi With Niger States. The Kogi State governor ascribed recent frequent boat accidents in which many people died to such dangerous waterway. In a message of sympathy issued today, November 29, by his spokesperson, Ismaila Isah, the governor called on relevant authorities to urgently do something positive to avert further accident on the same routine. He asked the authorities concerned to ensure that safety measures are immediately put in place to minimize risks associated with water transportation in the country. Governor Ododo who commended the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) for its efforts in search and rescue operation, called for concerted efforts through inter-agency collaboration to prevent cases of waterways accident and to enhance emergency response management.
Governor Ododo sympathized with victims of the recent boat mishap that claimed the lives of some passengers who are indigenes of Kogi State. He expressed sadness over the boat accident said he was particularly concerned that most of the victims were women, petty traders and artisans who are involved in legitimate business activities to earn a living and contribute to the economy of the state. Governor Ododo commiserated with the families of those who lost their lives and assured that the government will support those injured in their recuperations. The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) had today, confirmed that some traders who were on their way to the Katcha weekly market in Niger State were killed while others sustained injuries when the boat coveying them from Kogi state capsized along the Dambo-Ebuchi sections of the River Niger.
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has asked all licensees to update any changes to their contact information within seven days of occurrence. A statement by the Director of Public Affairs, Reuben Muoka said that this is in accordance to the Licensing Regulations 2019. The statement explained that the requirement is essential for effective regulatory oversight and seamless communication with licensees. Licensees are therefore required to update the following information via the NCC’s eServices platform at https://eservices.ncc.gov.ng by January 9, 2025: Physical Address: Principal place of business, including postcode, geographic coordinates, and landmarks. Mailing Address: If different from the physical address. Email Addresses: Current and active email contacts. Telephone Numbers: Updated and reachable contact numbers. Contact Personnel Details: Names and details of relevant personnel. The Commission warned that failure to provide accurate and locatable physical address details will result in appropriate sanctions.
A woman, Wuraola Surajudeen, has told an Area Court in Ilorin, Kwara State capital that she developed hatred for her husband, Surajudeen Iya-Onitasi just two weeks after their wedding. She therefore pleaded with the court to end the marriage immediately because of “lack of love and affection. “I was introduced to my present husband and we got along smoothly, but immediately after the marriage, I developed hatred for him.” Wuraola Surajudeen told the court that she was once married before her wedding to Iya-Onitasi. ”I divorced my former husband due to pressure from my mother. My former husband became a religious fanatics after our marriage and my parents were against him.” Responding, the two-week old husband narrated how his wife left the house without his consent, with an excuse that she was tired of the marriage. He said that he tried on different occasions to consummate the union but she refused to allow him, so he let her be. “I want her to pay back the N20,000 dowry I paid for her hand in marriage.” The trial Judge, Hammed Ajumonbi ordered the petitioner to pay back the dowry and adjourned the case to December 4, for pronouncement of divorce.
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has dragged former Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN), Gimba Kumo Ya’u and two others to court for allegedly diverting over $65 million meant for the development of 962 units of residential housing units in Kubwa District in Abuja. Gimba Kumo Ya’u was arraigned yesterday, November 26, before Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court, Abuja alongside the former Executive Director of FMBN, Bola Ogunsola, and the Managing Director of T-Brend Fortunes Nigeria Limited, Tarry Rufus. According to the ICPC in a charge sheet marked FHC/ABJ/CR/333/24, the alleged offences contravened the Public Enterprises Regulatory Commission Act and Section 19 of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022. In a five-count charge, the antigraft agency accused Gimba Ya’u of making payment to Good Earth Power Nigeria Limited in the sum of N3,785,000,000 out of the total contract sum of $65,000,000, for the development of 962 Units of Residential Housing in Kubwa, Abuja named: “Goodluck Jonathan Legacy City,” contrary to accepted practice. The agency said that Gimba Kumo Ya’u and Bola Ogunsola, in their roles as Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director of the bank in August 2012, had secured a loan of N14 billion from Ecobank Nigeria PLC on behalf of the bank. It further alleged that Gimba Kumo Ya’u, as the then CEO of FMBN, awarded the $65 million contract despite knowing that the company lacked the capacity to carry out the contract. It added that the project remains incomplete “as of today thereby amounting to economic adversity for the bank and in violation of Section 68(1) of the Public Enterprise Regulatory Commission Act, CAP P39, Laws of the Federation, 2004.” The other defendants were accused of giving and receiving $3,550,000 of the contract sum in cash in contravention of the Money Laundering Act. Tarry Rufus, Good Earth Power Nigeria Limited and T-Brend Fortunes Limited were accused of directly converting the sum of N991,399,255 into $3,550,000 and handing over the same to one Jason Rosamond (now at large) in cash, contrary to Section 18 (2) (b) and punishable under Section 18 (a) of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022. The defendants however pleaded not guilty when the charges were read to them. Justice Omotosho, in view of the not guilty plea adjourned the matter for 6th of February 2025 for commencement of trial. He also granted the defendants bail in most liberal terms.
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Governor Ododo sympathized with victims of the recent boat mishap that claimed the lives of some passengers who are indigenes of Kogi State.
