Oyetola Inaugurates Landmark Projects At NIWA

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June 12, 2024

From Richard Akintade, Osogbo

Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, yesterday paid a one-day working visit to the National Inland Waterways Authority, NIWA, in Lokoja, Kogi State capital.

On the occasion, he inaugurated several landmark projects aimed at enhancing the operational capability and safety standards of Nigeria’s inland waterways.

In his address, Oyetola emphasised the critical role of the maritime sector in improving Nigeria’s balance of trade, strengthening the naira, and creating employment.

“The Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy is determined to maximize the comparative advantages our maritime resources present”, in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, he stated.

A key achievement celebrated during the visit was the long-awaited Water Transportation Code. This new regulatory framework is expected to significantly standardize water transportation, minimize accidents, and provide a structured environment for potential investors.

The Minister commended NIWA’s management for their efforts in bringing this vital code to fruition.

The projects inaugurated include fifteen boats of varying capacities and purposes, designed to enhance surveillance, safety enforcement, and emergency response on Nigeria’s waterways. Notably, the fleet comprises three surveillance boats, five safety enforcement boats, a gun patrol boat, a 62-seater passenger boat as a pilot scheme to replace traditional wooden canoes, three water ambulances, and two hydrographic survey boats equipped with multi-beam echo sounders.

“These initiatives fulfill our commitment to ensuring our inland waterways are well-utilized for both cargo shipment and passenger transportation”, Minister Oyetola remarked.

He also pledged to address both internal and external challenges impeding NIWA’s operations, ensuring continuous improvement and expansion of navigable waterways.

While discussing the ministry’s future plans, the Minister revealed the goal to increase navigable waterways by at least 2,000 kilometers through comprehensive dredging. He also mentioned ongoing efforts to finalize the disbursement of the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund ,CVFF, which aims to support the development of the maritime sector.

The Minister called upon the private sector to invest in and partner with the government, leveraging the numerous opportunities within the maritime industry to foster sustainable development.

“We will continue to create an enabling environment, develop supportive policies, and offer necessary assistance to grow the Inland Waterways segment”, he assured.

Speaking on the occasion, Kogi Governor, Alhaji Usman Ododo, represented by his deputy, Comrade Salifu Joel, commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing the right person as NIWA’s MD.

He further said “When we were coming here, our people asked where we were going, I told them we were going to a NIWA’s event. They asked, ‘which one is NIWA?’ This means until now, no one knows NIWA. But we know NIWA now because the President has appointed the right person that is making impact”.

In his welcome address, Mr. Bola Oyebamiji, the Managing Director/CEO of NIWA, expressed gratitude for the Honourable Minister’s support and guidance in driving organizational reforms and enhancing operational efficiency. He outlined the agency’s proactive measures, including the implementation of education grants, promotion letters, and medical packages for staff, to boost morale and productivity.

Mr. Oyebamiji also highlighted NIWA’s initiatives in public engagement, emergency response, and enforcement, culminating in the launch of the first phase of water marshal initiatives. These efforts, coupled with the unveiling of the Transportation Code, he said, underscore NIWA’s commitment to ensuring the safety and efficiency of inland water transportation.

Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Oloruntola Olufemi, commended the NIWA management for the feat achieved so far and encouraged it to do more. He also assured NIWA of the ministry’s support in actualising its mandate.

After the Minister’s address, he officially inaugurated the newly-completed projects, marking a significant step forward in the development of Nigeria’s maritime infrastructure.

Tinubu Commends Tolaram Group For Reposing Confidence In Nigeria’s Economy

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June 12, 2024

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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commended the Indonesian business conglomerate, the Tolaram Group, for believing in Nigeria and having absolute faith in her economy.

Tolaram, which partnered Nigeria to build the Lekki Free Trade Zone and the country’s first deep sea port, has acquired Diageo’s 58.02% shareholding in Guinness Nigeria Plc.

According to an announcement at the Nigerian Exchange yesterday, Tolaram will also enter into long-term license and royalty agreements for the continued production of the Guinness products and its locally manufactured Diageo ready-to-drink and mainstream brands.

President Tinubu said Tolaram, by acquiring Diageo’s shares in Guinness, had shown that it has a long-term view of doing business in Nigeria.

Tolaram has been doing business in Nigeria in the last 50 years.

In choosing to expand its investment footprints in Nigeria, Tolaram has demonstrated strong faith and confidence in Nigeria’s economy.

President Tinubu welcomes Tolaram to the beverage sector of Nigeria’s business landscape and hopes the group’s business will continue to flourish.

President Tinubu gives assurances to investors and Nigeria’s businesses, promising that his government will continue to make the operating environment more conducive and transparent.

He said that the multi-pronged reforms and interventions being implemented on the economic and financial fronts would deliver sustained growth and enduring profitability for investors.

June 12: Movement Holds Rally For MKO Abiola, Other Democracy Heroes

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June 12, 2024

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The Patriots, an eminent group of leaders of thought in collaboration with June 12 Pro- Democracy Movement of Nigeria, will today in Lagos, host a national rally in honour of late Chief MKO Abiola.

Prof. Anthony Kila, Chairman, Local Organising Committee ,LOC, of the June 12 Democracy Day Celebration 2024, disclosed this in a statement in Lagos.

Kila said that the rally, with the theme “Securing the Future of Nigeria through a Democratic People’s Constitution”, would also call for a people’s constitution in Nigeria.

According to him, the group’s National Democracy Day Rendezvous will hold at the Conference & Exhibition Centre of Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry ,LCCI, Alausa, Ikeja, at 10.00am on Wednesday.

He said that the event would be chaired by a former Secretary General of the Commonwealth, and the Chairman of the Patriots, Chief Emeka Anyaoku.

Kila added that June 12 stakeholders and activists would be addressed by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State at the national rally.

According to him, already invited to give goodwill messages at the event are former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, the 2023 Presidential Candidates of the Labour Party ,LP, and the New Nigeria People’s Party ,NNPP, Mr Peter Obi and, Dr Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso respectively, among others.

He said that Dr Olisa Agbakoba (SAN), Prof. Attahiru Jega and Sen. Shehu Sanni were expected to lead the anniversary conversation on “securing the future of Nigeria through a democratic constitution reform process”.

“Nobel Laureate, Prof. Wole Soyinka, who was earlier scheduled to provide the key note address at the occasion has now been replaced, due to very pressing engagements and his place taken by former Governor of Ekiti State, Dr Kayode Fayemi and Former Military Governor of Kaduna State and June 12 Activist, Col. Umar Dangiwa.

“They are respectively billed to pioneer broad interventions on the anniversary.

According to him, leading pro democracy stakeholders and activists invited to x-ray and discuss the key note submissions at the event are Prof. Pat Utomi, Mr Femi Falana, (SAN), Dr Oby Ezekwesili, Prof Jibrin Ibrahim, Amb. Nkoyo Toyo, among others.

Tariffs Hike Must Be Fair, Equitable, Beneficial To All Nigerians – Speaker Abbas

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June 12, 2024

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By Paul Effiong, Abuja

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas has reiterated that any adjustments made in the electricity tariffs must be fair, equitable and beneficial to all the stakeholders.

He made the submission while declaring open a special public hearing on the increase in electricity tarrifs organized by the joint House committees on power, commerce, national planning and delegated legislation on Tuesday in Abuja.

It will be recalled that the Nigeria Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) recently hiked the tariff, a development which sparked widespread discontent and attracted strong opposition from different quarters of the country.

Represented by the deputy speaker Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, Speaker Abbas said the public hearing was to ultimately examine all issues of concern with a view to proffering solutions.

He said: “The fears expressed by many are valid – that such a sharp increase in electricity tariffs will only exacerbate the economic hardships already faced by our people. There are genuine concerns that higher utility bills resulting from this tariff hike could have a ripple effect on operational costs for businesses, potentially leading to increased prices for goods and services

“Electricity as we know, is not just a commodity; it is a lifeline for many households and businesses across our nation. Any significant rise in tariff could have far-reaching consequences for our economy and the livelihoods of our people. Therefore, it is essential that we carefully assess all factors before making any decisions that may affect the affordability and accessibility of electricity for our citizens. It is imperative that we engage in constructive dialogue to address these issues and ensure that any adjustments made are fair, transparent, and ultimately beneficial to all parties involved.

“It is in the light of the foregoing that the House convened this public hearing. As representatives of the Nigerian people, it is our duty to carefully consider the implications of such policies on our constituents’well-being and livelihoods.

“Our goal is to ensure that any adjustments made to electricity tariffs are fair, equitable, and ultimately beneficial to all stakeholders involved.

“We must strive to strike a balance that safeguards the interests of consumers while also enabling sustainable growth and development within the energy sector.”

Expressing the willingness of the House to continue to work with the executive arm of government, Speaker Abbas enjoined the stakeholders to make valuable submissions that will help the parliament to make an informed decision on the issue.

“I urge all stakeholders present here today to engage in constructive dialogue and provide valuable insights that will guide us in finding a balanced solution to this pressing issue. Let us work together towards ensuring that electricity remains affordable for all Nigerians while also aupporting the growth and stability of our energy sector. Let us use this public hearing as an opportunity to listen to all stakeholders,understand their perspectives, and work towards finding a sustainable and equitable resolution to this pressing issue.

“I want to emphasize our commitment to working closely with the executive to transform the Nigerian power sector into a model of efficiency and sustainability as outlined in our Legislative Agenda. We are dedicated to providing legislative support to the efforts of President Ahmed Bola Tinubu’s Administration in reforming the power sector by addressing all legal and legislative impediments accordingly”, he said.

Speaker Abbas however frowned at the failure of the leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) to honour the invitation of the committees and make their respective presentations.

He urged them to submit their memoranda to the secretariat of the committees, saying that positive results can only be made when all the stakeholders come into a partnership.

Attack On Soldiers: Don’t Back Down On Ban Of Okaigheles, Edo South Residents Urge Govt

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June 12, 2024

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FROM IKHILI EBALU, BENIN CITY

Edo residents have asked the State Government not to rescind the ban on the activities of Okaigheles in communities across Edo South Senatorial District.

A cross section of the residents who spoke to journalists on Tuesday, said the decision to ban activities of the community youth leaders was long overdue, noting that it will put a check on the criminal activities that have posed serious threats to the security of lives and property across the seven local government areas in Edo South Senatorial District.

Recall that in a statement, at the weekend, the state government reaffirmed its decision to ban the activities of Okaigheles and Cultists in Edo South communities.

Government noted that the State Security Council data showed that two groups – Okaigheles and cultists – posed the most severe threat to the security and stability of the State, resulting in the decision of the Council to place a total ban on the criminal groups.

A resident in Abudu, Orhionmwon Local Government of the State, George Osadolor said: “The government should never allow Okiagheles to return to our communities again. They have not been peaceful in the way they operate. They were set up to protect the communities but their actions have rather shown that they do not have our interest at heart.”

A resident in Isihor, Ovia North East, Douglas Egberanmwen, stated that, I love the state government’s decision. These youth leaders go about harassing and threatening people instead of protecting community assets.

Omo Isibor, who lives in Uteh community, appealed to the Edo State Government not to rescind its decision on the ban, noting, Please I want to appeal to the Edo State Government not to go back on its decision to ban the activities of the Okaigheles in Benin. The ban should be enforced for our collective good.

On his part, Godgift Idahosa narrated how community youth leaders threaten the peace in communities across the Benin City, stating: ‘These same people (Okaigheles) came to collect working tools from workers (tilers) last month at a construction site, claiming they are the new leaders in the community. We were made to pay N200,000 before we were allowed to continue work.

Edo APC Accepts Resignation Of Vice Chairman, Says It Remains Focused

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June 12, 2024

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FROM IKHILI EBALU, BENIN CITY

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State , yesterday said it has accepted the resignation of Chief Francis Inegbeneki as the State Vice-Chairman (Edo Central) and member of the party in the State.

The party in a statement signed by the Chairman, Emperor Jarrett Tenebe, said, we respect his decision, we wish him well in his future political endeavors.

Tenebe, further said, Chief Inegbeneki has been a loyal and dedicated member of our great party since its inception. He has worked tirelessly to promote the ideals of the APC and to advance the interests of our members and supporters across the state.

Adding that, His contributions to the growth and development of the party cannot be overstated, and we are grateful for the time he spent with us.

He stated that, the party must now look forward to the future and focus our efforts on the task of liberating Edo State from the rudderless and ineffective government of the outgoing Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) government.

Adding that, APC remains the only party committed to delivering the change that Edo State so desperately needs.

He called on all APC members and supporters in and outside Edo State to remain steadfast and committed to their cause, work together to mobilize our communities, engage with our fellow citizens, and spread the message of hope and change that the APC represents. He concluded.

June 12: Gov. Abiodun Directs Ministry To Renovate MKO Abiola’s House

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June 12, 2024

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Segun Ayinde, Abeokuta

Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has directed the Ministry of Housing to immediately give a face-lift to the house of late MKO Abiola, at Gbagura, Oja Agbo Abeokuta, in preparation for Democracy Day on Wednesday.

Recalled that President Muhammadu Buhari, before leaving office declared June 12 as Democracy Day in Nigeria, as against May 29, to celebrate the sacrifices made by Abiola in the quest for restoration of democratic government in Nigeria.

This was contained in a statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Lekan Adeniran, and made available to newsmen in Abeokuta, the state capital on Tuesday.

According to the statement, the Governor wants the family house of the late Aareona Kakanfo of Yoruba land to be befitting and conducive for many pro-democracies activists who would be visiting for the celebration.

Meanwhile, the Deputy Head of the Abiola’s family, Alhaji Tajudeen Abiola, has expressed gratitude to the State Government for the gesture , which he said would not only bring changes to the Abiola family house alone but to the community as the collapse external drainage system were also touched.

“We are grateful to the State Governor for this kind gesture. The fallen ceilings were replaced, the windows were touched and the old buildings are wearing new looks,” he said. On his part, the son of the late business mogul, Ameen Abiola said the family was greatful for the generous disposition of the State Government aimed at ensuring the sustainability of the legacy and ideals of their late father. According to him, the family would always be grateful for the various efforts aimed at bringing alive the memory of their late father

Abiola, a business mogul and philanthropist, was believed to have won the June 12 presidential election in 1993, which was annulled by the then Military President, Ibrahim Babangida. He later declared himself as president and consequently arrested.

He eventually died in detention on July 7, 1998, in very controversial circumstances.

Ebonyi Community Protests Imposition Of Traditional Ruler, Seeks Govt Intervention

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June 12, 2024

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From Nwogha Ndubuisi, Abakaliki

The people of Nkomoro autonomous community in Ezza North local government area of Ebonyi state have protested in show of their rejection of Barr Jacob Nwakpa as Eze-elect of the community.

The community who carried out demonstration at Okpokeze Nkomoro village square carried placards of different inscriptions calling for the election of the traditional stool.

Addressing newsmen, the Nkomoro Youth Assembly national president, Mr Peter Agbom, and acting town union president, Mr Obiora Ezaka stated that the acclaimed Eze-elect was not elected by the people, hence, would not rule them as their traditional ruler.

According to Agbom, “We appreciate and respect His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Builder Francis O. Nwifuru, the indefatigable governor of Ebonyi State, for his political dexterity and maturity in dousing the political intrigues, tension, and bickering in the Local government elections in the State. The amicable resolution and balancing of competing interest is a further testimony to the governor’s wisdom and fatherly disposition.

” No doubt, onwa Oferekpe has bestowed Ebonyians with great hope for the future while delivering immediate dividends of good governance to last till that future. We salute his efforts and pledge total commitment to his administration.

Also speaking,Mr Okohu Paulinus the community secretary and Obiora Ezaka, acting town union president said the candidate, Barr Nwakpa who is currently facing court trials and other contestants are yet to stand for any election as one of the prerequisites to be nominated for the position urging the state governor, Francis Nwifuru for his intervention.

“That we reject in the strongest term the attempted and remotely manipulated efforts to impose a traditional ruler on Nkomoro by external elements, masterminded by Nwakpa Ikpenyi’s family.

“That at no place, time or forum within any inch of Nkomoro land was Barr. Jacob Nwakpa nominated or elected as Ezeogo of Nkomoro Community.

” It was strange and an affront on the integrity of the Judicial system that Mr. Chikodili Nomeh would assume authority (under the guise of Ebonyi State House of Assembly Committee) to pass a resolution over a matter pending in court without regard to a subsisting order of court restraining parties to maintain the status quo.

“We reinstate our trust in the ongoing judicial process while we vehemently refuse and would resist any further attempt to impose a traditional ruler upon the good people of Nkomoro without a free and transparent election guided in a participatory processes.

However, some of the aspirants, Mr Joseph Ogayi, a retired police officer, and prophet Igwe Cletus who spoke with our Correspondent, explained that all contestants are of Oriuzor kindred and appealed to Ebonyi state government to visit the community and conduct free, fair and transparent election for the interest of the state.

It could be recall that Ebonyi State House of Assembly committee on Public Petition, Justice and Judiciary led by Hon Chikaodili Nomeh last week claimed to had resolved and authenticated the nomination of Chief Jacob Nwakpa as Eze-elect of Nkomoro autonomous community

Reps To Intervene In Plateau State House Of Assembly Crisis

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June 12, 2024

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By Paul Effiong, Abuja

The House of Representatives has pledged it readiness to wade into the ongoing political crisis rocking the Plateau State House of Assembly.

This followed a motion of urgent national importance moved during plenary yesterday by the former deputy speaker and a lawmaker representing
Wase Federal Constituency of Plateau State, Ahmed Wase.

It would be recalled that on April 2024, the Speaker, Plateau state House of Assembly, Gabriel Dewan, sworn in nine out of the 16 members of the All Progressives Congress, APC, who were declared winners by the Appeal Court.

In his lead motion, Wase recalled that in 2023, the Court of Appeal hearing appeals arising from judgements of the Plateau State Election Tribunal, made decisions which resulted in the nullification of Certificates of Return of 16 sitting members of the Plateau State House of Assembly while it ordered the issuance of new Certificates of Return to the new Members by the Independent National Electoral Commission

The lawmaker further recalled that pursuant to the Provisions of Section 72 (1) of the Electoral Act, 2022, the Independent National Electoral Commission issued Certificates of Return to the new Members in compliance with the order of the Appeal Court and the Law

He argued that Section 94 (1) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 provides the procedure for the swearing in of newly elected Members of a State House of Assembly.

“Concerned that the current situation, where some of the new Members were selected and sworn-in by the Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly while others have not been sworn-in, contradicts the principles of fairness and justice that our electoral laws seek to uphold

Consequently, the motion was generally adopted and the house resolved to ensure that equity, fairness and justice were served on the matter inorder to restore conducive political atmosphere to the tourism state..

June 12: Ex-President Jonathan Says Nigeria’s Democracy Wobbling, But There’s Hope

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June 12, 2024

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FROM IKHILI EBALU, BENIN CITY

Former president Goodluck Jonathan, on Tuesday expressed hope in the nation’s democracy despite its current wobbling and fumbling nature.

He expressed his confidence shortly after meeting with the Oba of Benin, Ewuare II in his palace in Benin City

Jonathan said democracy is a gradual process and countries must be able to know and appreciate that because of its inherent benefits.

Tomorrow is the public holiday that we are celebrating the Democracy day and looking at the faces, some of you were not born in 1998, 1999 that this present republic came to stay because we will be 25 years old and as at that time, some of you were not born or maybe you could be one or two years and may not know what really happened in Nigeria before this time.

Adding that, Democracy takes a gradual process well, some countries may move faster than others. We maybe moving slowly, we may be a bit sluggish , we may even wobble sometimes but the key thing is that, Democratic governance is what everybody wants. So that people will be able to express themselves freely.

Stating that, We have media freedom because of democracy. It was not like this before. Yes, the dividends of democracy in terms of what comes to the people, are we feeding well? Do you have a good job? Can you go to hospitals that have doctors, drugs? We are still struggling to get there.

“But the journey is on. I believe we will get there”, Jonathan said.

President Jonathan when asked embarking on such initiative of spreading the messages of democracy across the Africa continent, said it is part of his contributions to the continent.

“Well, is always a global practice when you have a privilege of serving a country as a president, there is a number of things we have, there is a number of leakages and after finished serving, you will think about what will you continue to give back to the society and we selected the issue of consolidating democracy across the Africa continent, issues of good governance, and issue of standard practice of elections .

“That is the messages we have been carrying on”, Jonathan added.

Earlier, Jonathan said he was at the palace of the Oba to inform him of his forthcoming programme, Goodluck Jonathan Foundation (GJF) Democracy Dialogue slated to take place in Benin and to seek his blessings for a successful event.

He said education is key and that if the people are not well educated and prepared, they may not know what to do.

On the part of the Oba of Benin, Ewuare II, he thanked former president Goodluck Jonathan for bringing the event to Benin adding that his action has really proven the value and respect he has for the Benin Kingdom which is the home of culture.

While lauding and affirming what president Jonathan said on educating the people to enable them make an informed decision, said it is very apt as if you don’t tell a spoiler that he is spoiling things, he will think that he is repairing it.

The Oba who also commending the former president for always coming to the kingdom to pay him visit, assured him of reciprocating such gesture.

Aljazirah Nigeria reports that those who are to grace the occasion that will be co-hosted by the governor of Edo State, Mr. Godwin Obaseki are immediate past president of Kenya, Mr. Uhuru Kenyatta; former Liberian President, George Weah and the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar.

Other personalities expected at the annual event themed ‘Functional Education, Effective Political Leadership as a Panacea to Africa’s Growth and Development,’ are former Vice President of Zambia, Dr. Nevers Mumba and the head of the UNDP Sub-Regional Hub for West and Central Africa, Njoya Tikum.

Expected as a keynote speaker is Prof. Olubayi Olubayi, a seasoned educationist, Chief Academic Officer at Maarifa Education, a Kenya based Pan-African company that owns private universities across Africa and former Vice Chancellor of the International University of East Africa (IUEA) in Uganda.

Oyetola Inaugurates Landmark Projects At NIWA

Tinubu Commends Tolaram Group For Reposing Confidence In Nigeria’s Economy

June 12: Movement Holds Rally For MKO Abiola, Other Democracy Heroes

Tariffs Hike Must Be Fair, Equitable, Beneficial To All Nigerians – Speaker Abbas

Attack On Soldiers: Don’t Back Down On Ban Of Okaigheles, Edo South Residents Urge Govt

Edo APC Accepts Resignation Of Vice Chairman, Says It Remains Focused

June 12: Gov. Abiodun Directs Ministry To Renovate MKO Abiola’s House

Ebonyi Community Protests Imposition Of Traditional Ruler, Seeks Govt Intervention

Reps To Intervene In Plateau State House Of Assembly Crisis

June 12: Ex-President Jonathan Says Nigeria’s Democracy Wobbling, But There’s Hope

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