TUC Declares Massive Protest in Lagos Over RTEAN Ban.

TUC Declares Massive Protest in Lagos Over RTEAN Ban.

 

The Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) has expressed its readiness to shut down economic activities in Lagos State on Monday, 25 September, in protest to the State government’s ban on the operation of its affiliate union, Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN).

TUC President Comrade Festus Osifo made this known to journalists in Abuja on Friday. He said all affiliate unions of TUC, including Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association (PENGASSAN), Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria (ASCSN), Association of Senior Staff of Banks, Insurance and Financial Institutions (ASSBIFI), and others are expected to join the action.

Osifo said TUC has employed all the necessary tools of engagement for amicable resolution: written letters and held meetings with the Lagos State government. He added that the RTEAN also went to court and got a judgement from the National Industrial Court, which said the State government has no powers to proscribe a trade union legally registered by the Federal government. Yet, the Lagos State government refuses the union to operate.

He, therefore, said TUC will utilise trade union’s powers to protest its affiliate union. He also called on the Ministry of Labour and Employment, the Federal government’s body with powers to register and deregister trade unions, to call the Lagos State government to order.

TUC also threatened that if the State government remains adamant after the protest, its affiliates will shut down all federal establishments across Lagos.

“The National Industrial Court Lagos State division, in its judgement told the State government to unlock the offices of RTEAN its official locked. The Court expressly said also that the Lagos State government has no powers to proscribe a registered trade union. However, the Lagos government refused to comply with the judgment.

“On the 4th of September this year, we wrote another letter to the Lagos State government, drawing their attention to the government judgment and the meeting we had earlier with them where they promised that the issue would be resolved, but there was no response. All other attempts to reach the State governor were to no avail.

“In fact, we have even reported the Ministry of Labour and to people in the Federal government that are from Lagos State to call the governor to order. What they are doing to RTEAN is the same thing they now doing to NURTW today. So, this is fundamentally wrong.

“So it is against this backdrop that we said on the 4th of September: within two weeks, if the Lagos government remains adamant in resolving the issue, we are going to carry out a protest, and after the protest and there is no resolution in sight, there is going to be a total shutdown in Lagos State. Because what the State government is doing against a legally registered trade union is not acceptable to us.

“So in order for us to carry out a successful protest in Lagos on Monday, we informed the DG of DSS, IGP, and the National Security Adviser.

The reason is that we want them to provide us with adequate security. And we have informed all our affiliates to proceed to Lagos next week.” Osifo said.

Credit: Peoplesmind.

Prophetess Mabel Ajoke Ikudaisi: A Life of Faith and Miracles.

Prophetess Mabel Ajoke Ikudaisi: A Life of Faith and Miracles.

In Pic: Prophetess Mabel Ajoke Ikudaisi.

In the heart of Ado-Ekiti, an extraordinary woman, Prophetess Mabel Ajoke Ikudaisi, has devoted her life to faith, divine revelations, and performing astonishing miracles, leaving an enduring imprint on her community.

Early Years of Divine Calling:

Prophetess Ikudaisi's spiritual odyssey commenced during her early years when she discovered her gift for prophecy and revelations. Even as a student at Holy Trinity Primary School in Ikun Akoko and later at Christ Apostolic Church Modern Secondary School in Ire Akari, her divine calling was unmistakable. It was during her secondary school days that she received a profound revelation from a visiting blind prophet at her Anglican Church, setting the stage for her future.

Remarkable Predictions and Challenges:

At the tender age of 8, Prophetess Ikudaisi remarkably predicted the birth of twins for a pregnant woman passing her house, a prophecy that materialized. However, her gift wasn't always greeted with open arms. Often, when she received revelations and prophecies, particularly during intense games of Ayo Olopon in her neighborhood, criticism and threats were her companions.

A Display of Spiritual Prowess:

In 1979, during her time in Benue State, she displayed her divine calling by delivering a child possessed by unclean, satanic spirits, a feat that affirmed her spiritual prowess.

In Pic: Prophetess Mabel Ajoke Ikudaisi.

A Journey Through Public Service:

Her journey continued when she joined the Ministry of Lands and Housing in Ondo State in 1979, working in the Town Planning Division as a Technical Assistant for fourteen years. During her tenure, she prophesied accurately about the fates of her colleagues, predicting retirements and layoffs during Governor Bamidele Olomilua's regime. During this period, various prophets confirmed her destiny of establishing her church and marrying a man from Ekiti State.

In Pic: Prophetess Mabel Ajoke Ikudaisi.

A Turning Point:

In 1995, a pivotal moment occurred when she revived a woman named 'Iya Seri' from the dead, an event that sparked celebrations throughout the community. Her church soon became a haven for those seeking spiritual guidance and miraculous healing.

A Spiritual Home:

Upon her arrival in Ado-Ekiti in 1979, she contemplated joining the Cherubim and Seraphim Church but ultimately refrained due to doctrinal disparities. Her parents recognized her gift for revelations and prophecies and encouraged her, believing that she would eventually serve God.

Prophetess Ikudaisi's life underwent a significant transformation when she joined the Christ Apostolic Church in 1981. Over the years, she sharpened her abilities and gained a reputation for accurately revealing examination questions to her colleagues, a talent that had its origins in her secondary school days. Her divine calling continued to solidify, culminating in the establishment of her church, Christ Apostolic Church C.A.C. OLORUNGBOGO Ekute Quarter Ado-Ekiti, in 2008.

In Pic: Prophetess Mabel Ajoke Ikudaisi.

Miracles and Challenges:

Despite encountering skepticism and facing accusations of employing charms or diabolical powers for miracles, Prophetess Ikudaisi remained steadfast, unmovable and always abounding in the work of the Lord. With the unwavering support of her faithful followers, she embarked on constructing her church building, following divine guidance that transformed it into a duplex.

A Divine Calling:

Also on her calling, she heard a loud voice from rock while on the river, and the Lord asked her to be delivering people falling inside the river.

Healing Waters:

There is a healing water in the church premises as directed by God; The water is a well specifically for spiritual uses, diverse healings, signs, and wonders through this water.

Family and Legacy:

Prophetess Ikudaisi married Pastor Isaac Adelowo Ikudaisi, who shared her surname. Their union was blessed with eight children and seven surviving children—three boys and four girls.

Continuing the Ministry:

Today, Christ Apostolic Church C.A.C. OLORUNGBOGO Ekute Quarter Ado-Ekiti, under the leadership of C.A.C. President worldwide Pastor Samuel Oladele, thrives as a center of faith and miracles. Prophetess Mabel Ajoke Ikudaisi's unwavering dedication to her divine calling and her contributions to her community's spiritual growth are beyond question. With 15 years of church service and her 65th birthday on the horizon, she remains a living testament to unwavering faith and commitment. All glory is accorded to God Almighty, the Alpha and the Omega, the ultimate source of her strength and purpose.

Aare Adedara Temitope, TOPMOST, Advocates Mentorship for Nigerian Youths.

Aare Adedara Temitope, TOPMOST, Advocates Mentorship for Nigerian Youths.

In a compelling call to action, Aare Adedara Temitope, the esteemed Chairman of the Nigerian Youth Congress in Ekiti State, has urged young Nigerians, both at home and abroad, to embrace the invaluable practice of mentorship.

Aare Adedara Temitope, widely recognized for his leadership within the Nigerian Youth Congress, has highlighted the significance of mentorship in the journey of personal and professional growth. Addressing the nation's vibrant and dynamic youth population, he emphasized the importance of seeking guidance and inspiration from those who have walked similar paths.

In Pic: Aare Adedara Temitope, TOPMOST, Chairman Nigerian Youth Congress Ekiti State. 

In a heartfelt message to Nigerian youth, Aare Adedara Temitope reminded them of a fundamental truth: "A man without someone to inspire him will be stagnant." Drawing an eloquent analogy to the nurturing process from birth, he emphasized that every individual benefits from the wisdom and experience of those who have come before.

"It is madness to think you can be self-made," Aare Adedara Temitope stated unequivocally. "There is nothing new under the sun, and there is nothing you are going to do that somebody has not done before."

As a beacon of inspiration himself, Aare Adedara Temitope encourages Nigerian youth to actively seek mentorship relationships that can propel them forward in their pursuits, whether in education, career, or personal development. He recognizes that learning from the experiences of others is a powerful tool for success.

Aare Adedara Temitope concluded his message with a warm wish, "Enjoy your weekend," reminding young Nigerians that even in their journey towards self-improvement, it's essential to find moments of joy and relaxation.

In Pic: Aare Adedara Temitope, TOPMOST, Chairman Nigerian Youth Congress Ekiti State. 

Aare Adedara Temitope's words serve as a resounding call to action for Nigerian youth to embrace mentorship and the wealth of knowledge and inspiration it can provide. His leadership within the Nigerian Youth Congress and his commitment to empowering the next generation continue to make a positive impact on the nation's future leaders.

Analyzing the Ekiti Farmer-Herder Peace Initiative: A Blueprint for Food Security and Harmony.

Analyzing the Ekiti Farmer-Herder Peace Initiative: A Blueprint for Food Security and Harmony.

By: Adl.

In a significant stride towards lasting peace and food security, Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji of Ekiti State inaugurated the Farmers-Herders Peace Committee on a sunny Friday afternoon. The committee, composed of a diverse array of stakeholders including farmers, herders, security agents, community leaders, and government officials, is poised to transform the landscape of Ekiti State and ensure a harmonious coexistence between herders and farmers.

Ekiti State, known for its fertile lands and lush green pastures, has long been a crucible where tensions between farmers and herders have flared, threatening the state's agricultural and economic stability. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, Governor Oyebanji embarked on a visionary mission to bridge the divide and cultivate a peaceful environment for all.

The Farmers-Herders Peace Committee represents a beacon of hope in these turbulent times. Its mandate is clear: to foster an atmosphere of peace and cooperation that will empower both farmers and herders to thrive side by side. The initiative aligns seamlessly with the agricultural and rural development agenda of the BAO administration, aimed at fortifying food security for all residents of Ekiti State.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, Governor Oyebanji delivered a stirring speech during the inauguration ceremony, emphasizing the paramount importance of unity among all stakeholders. He noted that "Ekiti State's potential for agricultural prosperity is boundless, but it can only be realized if we join hands and plow the fields of cooperation together."

The committee comprises dedicated individuals who have rolled up their sleeves to take on the noble task at hand. Farmers, the backbone of Ekiti's agriculture, bring to the table a deep understanding of the land, its seasons, and its potential. Herders, too, have invaluable knowledge of the state's terrain, essential for the peaceful cohabitation of their livestock with the farming community.

To ensure the safety and security of all parties involved, the committee is bolstered by the presence of vigilant security agents who will work tirelessly to maintain peace and enforce the law. Community leaders, chosen for their ability to mediate and build bridges, will play a pivotal role in resolving disputes and fostering trust.

Government officials, committed to facilitating this transformative initiative, provide the necessary resources and support to ensure its success. Their dedication is an embodiment of Governor Oyebanji's commitment to the welfare and progress of the state's citizens.

The Farmers-Herders Peace Committee is not a mere symbolic gesture; it is a call to action. Through dialogue, education, and the implementation of fair and sustainable practices, this committee aspires to reshape the relationship between farmers and herders in Ekiti State. The vision is to create an environment where both groups can coexist peacefully, maximizing the agricultural potential of the state while enhancing food security for all residents.

The road ahead is not without challenges. The scars of past conflicts run deep, and mistrust can be difficult to overcome. However, as the committee members extend their hands in friendship and solidarity, they are forging a path toward a brighter future.

Already, early signs of progress are emerging. Farmers and herders are engaging in open dialogue, sharing knowledge, and jointly exploring innovative farming practices that benefit all. Communities once torn by strife are beginning to heal, and a renewed sense of hope is taking root.

As the committee embarks on its journey to ensure a peaceful and conducive working atmosphere for all, Governor Oyebanji and his administration remain steadfast in their commitment to facilitating the growth of Ekiti State's agricultural sector. With food security at the forefront, they are laying the groundwork for a prosperous and harmonious future.

In a world where division and discord often dominate the headlines, Ekiti State's Farmers-Herders Peace Committee stands as a testament to the power of unity, collaboration, and forward-thinking leadership. It is a shining example of how a dedicated group of individuals, representing diverse interests, can come together for the greater good of their community and the promise of a brighter, more secure future for all.

I am Adl, a public analyst, and social media champion.

MC Oluomo gifts MohBad’s son, parents N5m.

MC Oluomo gifts MohBad’s son, parents N5m.

The Chairman of National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) Lagos State Council, Alhaji Musiliu Akinsanya (aka MC Oluomo), has donated N5 million to the family of the late Afrobeats artiste, Ilerioluwa Aloba, popularly known as MohBad.

The Nation confirmed from one of his aides, Jimoh Buhari, when the screenshot of the debit alerts surfaced on social media.

The alerts showed a transfer of N3 million for Mohbad’s son, Liam Eyinimofeoluwa Aloba; N1 million for the deceased father, Joseph Oluwabamiwo Aloba and another N1 million for mother of the deceased, Abosede Adeola Olumiyi.

Buhari said it was one of Akinsanya’s ways of reaching out to the people at their period of need, wondering how the “silent gesture” got to the social media.

Akinsanya, who recently returned to the NURTW from the Lagos State Parks and Garages (LASPG), Buhari said, didn’t want to make noise about the donation.

He said the NURTW Lagos boss was pained about the death of the musician.

“No one prays to loss a young lad who is doing well for himself and trying to uplift his family.

“The late Mohbad had struggled to get to where he was. Death took him at a point where he was about enjoying years of his hard labour. It is painful but we can’t query God,” he said.

Buhari added that the Lagos State transport chief sympathised with Aloba’s immediate family, close associates, friends and the musical industry.

FG increases salaries of tertiary institutions’ workers by 25 percent.

FG increases salaries of tertiary institutions’ workers by 25 percent.

The Federal Government has increased the salaries for academic and non-academic staff of its tertiary institutions, including universities, polytechnics and colleges of education by 25 per cent.

It confirmed the approval of the new percentage increment in salaries through the National Salaries, Wages and Income Commission (NSWIC).

A letter obtained by The Nation signed by the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Chairman of the NSWIC, Ekpo Nta to the Minister of Education on September 14, 2023, with the title: ‘RE: Implementation of the 35% and 23.5% salary increment for staff of tertiary institutions,’ reads: “I refer to your letter No. FME/IS/UNI/ASUU/CII/IIIT2/90 dated 8th September 2023 in respect of the above-subject. Find attached the circulars pertaining to the four salary structures in the Universities, Polytechnics and Colleges of Education for your information (attached).

“The 23.5 per cent earlier reflected in our letter SWC/S/04/S.149/I/59 of 28 July 2022 and stated in paragraph 2 of your letter, has been increased to 25 per cent which accounted for the increased cost implications.

“This Commission is really pleased with the success your informal discussions have achieved. We shall endeavour to support all your efforts aimed at repositioning the education sector. Please accept the assurances of my warm regards.”

Another letter from the Office of the Auditor-General of the Federation (OAuGF) dated September 21, 2023 also confirmed the increment.

The letter which was signed on behalf of the Director of Human Resource of the OAuGF, Ajanaku F.O reads: “I am directed to inform you that the Presidential Committee on Salaries at it’s 13th meeting having taken into consideration the different stages of collective bargaining in various sectors and specifically engagements between the Federal Ministry of Education and Tertiary Institutions-based Unions and consequently the Federal Government’s approval, is hereby conveyed as revised for the following:

“Consolidated Polytechnics and Colleges of Education Salary Structure for Academic Staff of Federal Polytechnics and Colleges of Education with effect from 1st January, 2023.

“Consolidated Tertiary Institutions Salary Structure II for non-Academic Staff of Federal Universities, with effect from 1st January, 2023.

“Consolidated Tertiary Education Institutions Salary Structure for non–Academic Staff of Federal Polytechnics and Colleges of Education, with effect from 1st January, 2023.

“Consolidated University Academic Salary Structure II (CONUASS II) for Academic Staff of Federal University with effect from 1st January, 2023.”

Credit: The Nation Newspapers 

Tinubu woos Nigerians in U.S. to invest back home.

Tinubu woos Nigerians in U.S. to invest back home.

Nigerians resident in the United States (U.S.) got an   invitation Wednesday night from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu – they should bring their resources to invest in the Nigerian economy. The President told a gathering of compatriots at a Town Hall meeting in New York that their fatherland had become home for business opportunities.

The meeting was organised by the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) on the sidelines of the ongoing 78th  session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).

Tinubu also urged Nigerians eking out their living in the U.S. to rise above setbacks and adopt a new mindset that would enable them succeed in all of their endeavours.

He said: “I want to give you a measure that will resonate with you. I was once a Diasporan. What you have been through, I have been through it. Change of mindset is necessary. Take it this night that Nigeria is home for business opportunities.

“Also, anywhere you stay, there is always going to be an opportunity in it and in everything you do, there is always going to be an opportunity, if you know how to search and put your mind to it.”

The President said he was pleased with Nigerians’ exemplary conduct and how they had continued to do well in their country of residence.

He said: “You are lucky to be among those who are celebrated for good manners and behaviour and are operating in an acceptable manner.

“I’m very proud of you; I have also been a beneficiary of inspiration, determination, commitment and perseverance and that is all you need to pull through.

“But, we need you back home, Nigeria has arrived; forget the frustration of the previous years’ leaderships.”

Tinubu, who spoke on plans for out-of-school children, the healthcare programme and the need to eradicate poverty, said Nigeria was a blessed country.

The president said: “Sincerely, we don’t have any reason to be poor. We are just poor in some leadership areas. That is what I harped on during my campaign. It was a very gruesome campaign but I won the election. If I didn’t throw myself into it with strong determination and resolve, I wouldn’t have won. 

“There were so many hurdles on my way that would have stopped me. I refused to be stopped. Many of you here that are contesting elections can do the same.”

He also urged them to embrace one another, stressing that there should not be sentiments and discrimination among them.

“You ought to embrace one another. No labeling, you should remove ethnic identity that tend to differentiate us. We are one single family, living in the same house, but living in different rooms.”

Setting the tone for the meeting, NiDCOM chairperson, Mrs. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, introduced some Nigerians excelling in their chosen fields in the U.S. to the president.

Some of the speakers expressed their delight in the leadership courage of the president and to continue to support him in his efforts to reform Nigeria.

Oye Owolewa, who is the first Nigerian-American elected into the U.S. Congress, said 25 per cent of business owners in the U.S. were black but 1.7 per cent got federal contracts.

Owolewa, who represents Washington DC, said they have been supporting people to take advantage of such opportunities for their economic empowerment.

“Those are the opportunities to make investors biggest in New York. In my office, we do not just talk, we teach our people how to get contracts, we teach our people how to get grants,” he said.

A Nigerian-American, Olufunmilola Obe, an Inspector working in the New York Police Department (NYPD), briefed the president on her efforts to make Africa, especially Nigeria, proud in her office.

Obe was the coordinator of an African Law Enforcement Organisation, an association within the NYPD, as Vice President and the first African-ever to be promoted to the rank of an Inspector in the history of NYPD.

Zuriel Oduwole, an American education advocate and film maker, famous for her works on the advocacy for the education of girls in Africa, said notwithstanding her work – involvement in peace mediation, including that of 2015, peace mediation between Guyana and Venezuela, and in 2018, invited by President Abdel Fattah El Sisi of Egypt to help get peace there as well, she remains proudly Nigerian.

Those who accompanied the President are: Ministers Yusuf Tuggar (Foreign Affairs); Adegboyega Oyetola (Marine and Blue Economy); Nigeria Permanent Representative to the UN, Tijjani Muhammad-Bande; Nigeria’s Ambassador to the U.S.,Mrs  Uzoma Emenike and her husband, Ikechi Emenike; Consul-General of Nigeria in New York, Lot Egopija and Consul-General in Atlanta, Amina Samaila.

Others were: Governors Umo Eno (Akwa Ibom); Uba Sani (Kaduna) and AbdulRahman AbdulRasaq (Kwara).

Prominent Nigerians, who participated include: Healthcare Logistics Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Oje Russel; community activist/NIDO President (New York chapter) Bobby Diggi Olisa;  NIDO President (New Jersey) Dr. Adeola Popoola; a youthful Artificial Intelligence (AI) guru/CHIPLAB CEO Ola Fadiran; renowned Physician and President of Nigerian American Public Affairs Committee (NAPAC), Dr. Nelson Aluya and a New York-based medical doctor, Dr. Bola Omotosho.

Credit: The Nation Newspaper