"My Administration Will Always Uphold Media Freedom, Respect Divergent Views," Says Tinubu.

"My Administration Will Always Uphold Media Freedom, Respect Divergent Views," Says Tinubu.

President Bola Tinubu says his administration will always uphold media freedom and respect opinions, whether they are adversarial or complimentary to his government.

The President made the pledge on Monday in Abuja during a meeting with members of the Newspaper Proprietors’ Association of Nigeria (NPAN).

President Tinubu assured NPAN members that he would carefully consider their request for a review of policies affecting the paper industry, acknowledging concerns about existing regulations hindering local access to newsprint.

Speaking on the challenges faced by travellers during the festive season, the President said the federal government is taking measures to alleviate the high cost of transportation by granting waivers to operators in the air, road, and rail transportation systems.

He also said steps are being taken to reduce the price of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG).

''I care about what is going on in the country. I thank you for your support and opinions, even the criticism of our government. Without the support of some of you, I will not be standing here as president.

"You have held our feet to the fire, and we will continue to respect your opinions whether we agree or not. One thing I must say is that I read every paper, various opinions, and columnists,’’ the President said.

President Tinubu said his administration will remain steadfast in "reinvigorating, retooling and re-engineering the economy," citing bold decisions by his administration to end the petrol subsidy regime and initiate the ongoing unification of foreign exchange rates.

''I promise you a very transparent government. We will try our best to draw water from a dry well and create a good economic environment that will serve the people. The future of our country is clear with committed investments in health, infrastructure, transportation, and education, among others. We have to take care of the poor. If we invest in our own children and leave the children of the poor, the children of neglect will attack your investments,'' he said.

In his remarks, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, reiterated the federal government’s commitment to fostering a vibrant and responsible media landscape in the country.

''Our democracy thrives on the principles of transparency, accountability, and the free flow of information. The role of the media, particularly the newspapers, is paramount in upholding these principles,'' the Minister said.

Commending NPAN for providing a platform for national discourse and for diverse voices, the Minister implored the association to collaborate with the Tinubu administration through effective dialogue, advancing shared values, and addressing challenges confronting the nation.

Mr. Kabiru Yusuf, NPAN president and chairman of Media Trust, owners of the Daily Trust Newspapers and Trust Television, while congratulating President Tinubu on his election victory and Supreme Court affirmation, raised pressing concerns facing the newspaper industry.

''Our particular concern is the newspaper industry, which employs thousands of Nigerians: journalists, marketers, distributors, administrators, accountants. Newspapers are also part of the building blocks of democracy and reliable sources of information in a world that is overwhelmed by fake news,'' he said.

NSCDC, FRSC Mobilize 3,450 Personnel for Christmas Security in Kwara State.

NSCDC, FRSC Mobilize 3,450 Personnel for Christmas Security in Kwara State.

The Kwara State Command Of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps has deployed 2,500 officers and men across various parts of Kwara State to maintain law and order during and after the yuletide season.

A statement by the Public Relations Officer of the state command of NSCDC, ASC Ayoola Michael, on Monday, said the deployment focuses on crucial areas prone to threats, including prayer grounds, worship centres, recreational facilities, motor parks, gardens, markets, shopping complexes, black spots, and critical installations.

According to the statement, the state commandant, Mohammed J.G Umar, revealed that this initiative is aimed at establishing coordinated actionable intelligence, deterring and addressing potential threats to ensure a secure environment for all.

He directed Area Commanders, Divisional Officers and Tactical Commanders to beef up security during the Christmas and New Year celebrations to prevent any untoward situation in their areas of responsibility throughout the Christmas season and beyond.

He also urged them to protect critical national assets and infrastructure to check vandalism during the yuletide.

The statement partly reads, “Commandant Umar reassures Kwara residents that NSCDC is operationally positioned to collaborate with sister security agencies and ensure a secure environment for a joyful and peaceful celebration.”

He urged members of the public to stay watchful, be on high alert, and promptly report any suspicious activities or movements of suspected criminals to security agencies for necessary actions.

Meanwhile, the Federal Road Safety Corps, Kwara State Command, has also deployed 950 personnel comprising of Officers and marshals to the various roads and points to maintain smooth traffic in the state during the Christmas and New Year celebrations.

A statement by Olayinka Basambo, the State Public Relations Officer of FRSC, said the deployed officers included 350 Special Marshals, 120 first respondents, 40 patrol vehicles, two power bikes, 4 ambulances, 4 private tow trucks and a 70-ton tow-truck for the end of year special patrol operations tagged “Operations Zero Tolerance to Road Traffic Crashes” from 15 December 2023 to 15 January 2024.

“The special patrol is to serve as deliberate intervention towards the reduction of road traffic fatalities and injuries through removal of obstructions and prompt rescue of road crash victims, amongst others adding the special operations are necessitated by the attendant increase in movement of vehicles across road corridors in Kwara State during the Christmas and New Year festivities and the need to address road traffic encumbrances associated with such increase”, she explained.

The statement also noted that the Kwara State Sector Commander, Corps Commander Stephen Dawulung, has also deployed personnel for traffic control at strategic locations within Ilorin Township and major cities in the state during the period of the special patrol.

The Sector Commander admonished motorists to obey traffic rules and regulations to avoid Excessive speeding, Overloading, Obstruction, Use of Phone While Driving, Passenger Manifest Violation, Operating Mechanical Deficient and Rickety Vehicles, Route Violation, and Driving with worn-out tyres, among others.

The Sector Commander also stressed the need for drivers to avoid night journeys and take adequate rest of 30 minutes after every 4-hour drive as the safety of life should be prioritised over pecuniary gains.

“To ensure free flow of traffic during the end of year festivities, the FRSC Kwara State Command will further organise Public Enlightenment campaigns/Mega Rally in all interstate motor parks, early morning cry and advocacy at places of worship and Markets to sensitise the motoring public in Kwara State.

“The Command will also carry out Special traffic control operations to ease the road congestion in the Ilorin metropolis with 3 other traffic control camps established Bode Saadu, Jebba and Olooru to ease traffic within the respective axis.

“The heavy tow truck, Ambulances and standby rescue teams will be stationed along major highways within the State for immediate clearance of obstructions and rescue operations when the need arises

“The Operation is also in line with the Goal 1 of Federal Road Safety Corps’ 2023 Corporate Strategic Goals which stipulates a 5% Reduction in Road Crash Fatalities and Injuries.”

While wishing the good people of the state a happy Christmas and New Year celebration, Dawulung advised motorists to drive with caution as ”only the living celebrate.”

Police Arrest 953 Suspected Kidnappers and Armed Robbers, Rescue 134 Victims in 10 Weeks.

Police Arrest 953 Suspected Kidnappers and Armed Robbers, Rescue 134 Victims in 10 Weeks.

Inspector General of Police, Olukayode Egbetokun.

In response to the surge in kidnapping cases, particularly in the Federal Capital Territory, Inspector-General of Police, Olukayode Egbetokun, reported the arrest of 375 suspects and the rescue of 134 kidnap victims in the past 10 weeks.

During his year-end conference with strategic police managers in Abuja, Egbetokun highlighted the significant achievements, stating, "The efforts of police operatives have led to significant achievements in ten weeks, including the rescue of 134 kidnap victims, arrest of 375 suspected kidnappers, 578 armed robbery suspects, 431 suspects for rape and other sexual related offences, 724 murder/homicide suspects, 2,343 suspects for other criminal offences, as well as the recovery of 419 firearms and 4,235 ammunition of various calibre."

The Inspector-General noted specific cases, such as the arrest of robbers responsible for the deadly Otukpo bank robbery, the rescue of kidnapped students from the Federal University Lafia, and the interception of illicit arms intended for distribution to IPOB/ESN Camps.

The police operation also resulted in the arrest of a gunrunner and the recovery of 22 semi-automatic pump action guns and 625 live cartridges. This proactive approach underscores the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to curbing criminal activities and ensuring the safety of citizens.

The Inspector-General's announcement reflects the relentless efforts of law enforcement in addressing the growing security challenges, with a focus on apprehending suspects and rescuing victims.

Obaseki Approves Promotion for Workers in Edo State.

Obaseki Approves Promotion for Workers in Edo State.

In a commendable move, Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, has granted approval for the promotion of eligible civil and public servants for July 1, 2023, and January 1, 2024.

The directive, conveyed in a circular signed by Mrs Bamaiyi Osedebamen Rebecca on behalf of the Head of Service, urges all ministries, parastatals, and government agencies to swiftly conclude the promotion exercise.

"I am directed to refer to the above subject and to inform you that the Governor of Edo State, Godwin Obaseki, has graciously approved the promotion of officers eligible for promotion for July 1, 2023, and January 1, 2024," the statement reads.

The circular further emphasizes the importance of strict compliance by accounting officers and emphasizes that all agencies and parastatals under them adhere to the approved promotion guidelines.

This decision reflects the commitment of the Edo State Government to the welfare and professional growth of its workforce, providing a positive impact on the morale and productivity of civil and public servants.

Ekiti First Lady Seeks Partnership With Female Doctors To Assist Aged People And Children.

Ekiti First Lady Seeks Partnership With Female Doctors To Assist Aged People And Children.

Wife of the Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji has canvassed a partnership with female medical practitioners for routine medical assistance to aged women and children in the state.

Dr. Oyebanji made the call on Monday when she was decorated as the Matron of the Medical Women Association of Nigeria (MWAN), Ekiti State Chapter in her office in Ado Ekiti, the state capital.

The First Lady who appreciated the association for the honour bestowed on her appreciated the female doctors for the support her office had enjoyed since she assumed the position.

Dr. Oyebanji urged members of the association to always be on ground during special programmes organized by her office to conduct free medical assistance to aged people and children.

The Ekiti Governor's wife specifically requested Ekiti MWAN members to be on ground on Thursday as she flags off the distribution of financial assistance and food items to 250 aged persons under the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) of the First Lady of Nigeria, Mrs. Oluremi Tinubu.

Dr. Oyebanji disclosed that Ekiti MWAN would be given a stand at the event to conduct medical checkup for the aged beneficiaries and also screen them for ailments like glaucoma and blood sugar.

The First Lady further requested the presence of the female doctors' body during the Children Christmas Party she would host on Wednesday at the Ekiti Parapo Pavilion to attend to any unforseen emergency.

She said: "I want to appreciate you for your collaboration with my office in the last one year. We need to work together to better the lots of our people. I want to thank you for your role during the last unveiling of Widows and Orphans Hope (WAOH) Project.

"I will need you to give assistance to our women, I will need you for our advocacy programmes. In fact, I will need you on Thursday when we unveil distribution of cash support and food items to 250 elderly citizens under the Renewed Hope Initiative of the wife of the President."

Dr. Oyebanji assured that she would be ready to give her moral and financial support for the association because of the noble roles it plays in the state and in the lives of the people.

Speaking earlier, the President of MWAN, Ekiti Chapter, Dr. Esther Akinsooto, said Dr. Oyebanji was chosen for the honour by virtue of her position as the state's First Lady explaining that the nation's First Lady is the Matron at national level.

Dr. Akinsooto said the Governor's wife has set the pace in the state with her passion for giving help to the less privileged, adding that the association believes that she still has much to offer.

The Ekiti MWAN boss said Dr. Oyebanji's decoration as the Matron drew the curtains on the association's Annual General Meeting (AGM).

INEC to conduct re-run, bye-elections February 2024.

INEC to conduct re-run, bye-elections February 2024.

INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu.

The Independent National Electoral Commission has said it will conduct reruns and bye-elections across the country in February 2024 to fill existing vacancies in the state and federal legislatures.

The INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, stated this at a meeting with leaders of political parties in Abuja on Monday ahead of the elections.

Re-run elections only involve the parties and candidates that participated in the general election, unless a party wishes to replace a deceased candidate. However, bye-elections are fresh elections.

Yakubu noted that at the end of litigation, the courts ordered the commission to conduct rerun elections in 34 federal and state constituencies, made up of one in the Senate, 11 federal constituencies, and 22 state constituencies.

He stated that both elections would be held on the same day, adding that political parties must conduct fresh primaries within the limited period provided by law.

He said, “The purpose of this meeting is to brief party leaders on the Commission’s preparation for the forthcoming elections to be held early in the new year. The elections are in two categories.

“First, as the Election Petition Appeal Tribunals set up in the aftermath of the 2023 General Election gradually wind up their proceedings, the Commission is required to conduct re-run elections in some constituencies by court order.

“Secondly, the Commission is also required to conduct bye-elections to fill vacancies arising from the death or resignation of members of the National and State Houses of Assembly. The Commission intends to combine and conduct the two categories of elections on the same day, the details of which will be discussed at this meeting.

“Consequently, political parties must conduct fresh primaries within the limited period of time provided by law.”

The INEC Chairman further stated, “So far, the Election Petition Appeal Tribunals have ordered the Commission to conduct re-run elections in 34 constituencies made up of one Senatorial District, 11 Federal Constituencies, and 22 State Assembly constituencies.

“However, the 34 constituencies constitute 2.8% of the 1,191 petitions filed by litigants. Significantly, out of the 34 re-run elections, it is only in three cases that the Commission was ordered to conduct elections in the entire constituencies. In the other 31 constituencies, elections are to be held in a few polling units.

“I want to assure you that at the end of all the litigations, including the Governorship elections pending on appeal at the Supreme Court, the Commission will present a comprehensive analysis of the petitions, including cases where the Commission was ordered to issue Certificates of Return to other candidates and the reasons for the decisions by the Courts as part of the lessons learned from the 2023 General Election for the consequential reforms to improve the conduct of future elections.

“The Commission is looking at the first week of February 2024 i.e. in just a little over one month to conduct both the re-run and bye-elections.”

Abia residents deserve good governance — Otti.

Abia residents deserve good governance — Otti 

The Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has said the people of Abia deserve all the dividends they are getting in terms of infrastructural development and prompt payment of salaries and pensions.

He added that by providing the benefits of good governance for the citizenry, he was not doing the people any special favour but simply carrying out the responsibilities of government.

The governor spoke on Sunday during a thanksgiving service organised by the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Hon. Nkiruka Onyejeocha, at Peace Event Centre, Amuda, Isuochi, Umunneochi LGA, Abia State.

He said, “When we are building roads, it is not a favour, we want to create access so that people can go about their businesses freely because we want to make life better for the people”.

The governor thanked the Umunneochi community, including the Church, for the support they have continued to give to his administration. He urged the Church not to relent but to continue to pray for the administration, saying that Abia State would be better this time around.

He congratulated Onyejeocha for her wisdom and for giving thanks to God for all that she had accomplished in life.

“I want to thank the Minister for remembering to say, ‘Thank You to God’. Like the Bishop said, it’s very easy to run away with your blessing, without acknowledging from where it came. Because you have acknowledged God and you have celebrated God in this way, the celebration will never end in your house,” he prayed.

Also speaking, the Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma, congratulated Abia residents on the new lease of life they are enjoying under the capable leadership of Governor Otti.

Uzodimma, who described Governor Otti as “one of the finest and brightest governors in the South East”, said the people of Abia are in for a great deal.

He said, “I want to use this medium to congratulate the people of Abia State for the new lease of life that we are witnessing in the government of Dr. Alex Otti.”

Uzodimma also thanked God for the good things He had done for Hon. Onyejeocha, saying that, though not reelected to the National Assembly where she had served, she was appointed a Minister, describing it as a testimony to her hard work and commitment.

He disclosed that the governors of the southeast are determined to work together to alleviate the sufferings of the people, while calling on the political class, irrespective of their political lines, to join hands with governments at all levels to achieve that.

“I therefore call on the politicians in Abia State, indeed in the South East to join hands together, build a new region for our people, to create an economy for our people, to create a life for our people, to develop our zone for the interest of all of us,” he implored.

Also speaking, the celebrant, Hon. Onyejeocha, said that the thanksgiving service was to prove a point about who God is and His position in her life.

She narrated her life experiences and how God had been her foundation and help over the years. She said that the era of relegating God to the background in Abia was over, as God is taking over the State now. She thanked Governor Otti and all who came to identify with her.

In his sermon titled, “The Power of Thanksgiving,” the Bishop of Methodist Church Nigeria, Diocese of Nsuka/Ehamufu, Enugu State, Dr. John Eze, stressed the need for thanksgiving unto the Lord. He said that thanksgiving provokes the power of God into action, triggers the multiplication of God’s blessings, guarantees the preservation of testimonies, and makes people know that God blesses people.

The event attracted many dignitaries, including the wife of the Governor of Abia State, Mrs. Priscilla Otti; Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi SAN; National Chairman of APC and former governor of Kano State, Abdullahi Ganduje; some members of the National Assembly, some members of the Abia State House of Assembly, some members of the Labour Party, clergymen, traditional rulers, among others.