News
Senator Natasha Urges Collective Action After Kogi Boat Tragedy Devastates Local Traders
The senator representing Kogi Central in the National Assembly, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has called for urgent support following the tragic boat mishap in Kogi State that claimed the lives of several women, petty traders, and artisans.
The accident occurred along the Dambo-Ebuchi section of the River Niger, as the victims traveled to the Katcha weekly market in Niger State.
Expressing deep sorrow, Akpoti-Uduaghan described the victims as the backbone of the local economy.
“Their untimely deaths leave a profound void in their families and the wider society,” she said.
Chief Press Secretary to the senator, Arogbonlo Israel in a statement on Monday, quoted her to have emphasized the need for government intervention, private sector involvement, and philanthropic support to assist grieving families.
“These hardworking individuals played a vital role in sustaining our communities. I urge the government and all concerned Nigerians to come together to provide the necessary assistance,” she added.
The Senator’s plea highlighted the importance of unity and collective action in the face of tragedy, as the region mourns the loss of those whose dedication fueled local commerce.
News
Farotimi: Obidient Movement fears Peter Obi may be next over threats
Following the recent arrest of Barrister Dele Farotimi, the Obidient Movement, led by its National Coordinator, Dr. Yunusa Tanko, has raised concerns over alleged threats against Peter Gregory Obi, former presidential candidate and leader of the movement.
During a press conference on Wednesday, the group condemned what it described as a systematic crackdown on dissent, exemplified by the recent arrest of prominent human rights lawyer Barr. Dele Farotimi.
Dr. Tanko warned that the threats against Peter Obi were part of a broader campaign to silence voices critical of the government.
He stated, “We are aware of the one-by-one targeting of key figures in our movement, and we will not stand idly by while tyranny takes hold. Any attempt to arrest or intimidate Mr. Peter Obi will be met with nationwide resistance.”
The group accused the government of using state institutions to suppress opposition, pointing to the arrest of Farotimi as evidence of a growing pattern of repression. They also highlighted the deteriorating economic conditions, including soaring fuel prices, currency devaluation, and rising interest rates, as the backdrop against which these threats are occurring.
Calling for the immediate release of Dele Farotimi, the Obidient Movement vowed to mobilize peaceful protests if the government continued its crackdown.
They also appealed to the international community to monitor the situation closely, urging global solidarity in defense of human rights and democracy in Nigeria.
Dr. Tanko concluded with a warning: “Nigeria belongs to all of us, and we will resist any attempt to undermine our democracy. The protection of Peter Obi is non-negotiable, and we stand united in defense of justice and freedom.”
The movement’s statement has sparked widespread reactions, with many calling on the government to ensure the safety of opposition leaders and to uphold the principles of democracy and free speech
News
Peter Obi Slams Arrest of Dele Farotimi, Demands his Immediate Release
Former presidential candidate, Peter Obi has condemned the arrest of human rights lawyer Dele Farotimi over defamation allegations, describing it as a blatant abuse of police powers and an affront on democracy and justice.
Obi expressed outrage at the misuse of law enforcement to suppress dissent, emphasizing that defamation is a civil matter to be resolved in court.
“The Nigeria Police Force exists to protect citizens’ rights, not to stifle them,” he said, adding that such actions threaten freedom of speech and accountability.
Drawing from personal experience, Obi noted, “I have been defamed countless times, yet I have never used the police to silence critics. Those aggrieved should follow legal channels, not weaponize state power.”
He criticized the arrest as an abuse of authority, warning that it undermines the professionalism of the police. Obi demanded Farotimi’s immediate and unconditional release, reminding the police of their duty to uphold the Constitution and serve the people, not political interests.
Whike reaffirming his commitment to democratic values and justice he concluded saying,
“A new Nigeria that will be just, fair, and free is possible,” Obi declared,
News
Tinubu: Fuel Subsidy Era Was a ‘Fake Good Life’ for Nigerians
President Bola Tinubu has described the era of fuel subsidies in Nigeria as a “fake good life” that masked the country’s looming economic crisis.
Speaking at the 34th and 35th combined convocation ceremonies of the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) in Ondo State, Tinubu emphasized that removing the subsidy was a necessary step to safeguard Nigeria’s future.
Represented by the Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Professor Wahab Egbewole, SAN, the President explained that both the removal of the petrol subsidy and the unification of exchange rates were strategic moves to avert economic disaster.
“As you know, we inherited an economy burdened by heavy debts due to fuel and dollar subsidies,” Tinubu said. “These subsidies, meant to help the poor, ended up enriching the wealthy while the nation’s economy spiraled downward. The good life we thought we had was a false one that could have led to collapse.”
He noted that the economic policies implemented by his administration were already showing positive results. Tinubu stressed that Nigeria’s economic framework is shifting from consumption to production and assured citizens that recovery is underway.
“There is light at the end of the tunnel,” he said. “These challenges require patriotism, but brighter days are coming. After the rain, there will be sunshine.”
The President also expressed concern over the rising emigration of Nigerian youths, emphasizing the detrimental impact of brain drain on the country. “Our highly trained intellectuals and professionals are leaving when their expertise is most needed. Leaving is not the solution. We were made Nigerians for a reason, and we have the wisdom to rebuild our nation,” Tinubu stated.
In her address, FUTA Vice Chancellor, Professor Adenike Oladiji, announced that 6,405 students graduated from the institution across nine schools in the combined 2022/2023 and 2023/2024 academic sessions. She noted that 519 students earned First Class honours, with 3,408 receiving Second Class Upper degrees.
“Our mission is to provide quality education, impactful research, and innovative solutions for societal development,” Oladiji said, highlighting FUTA’s contributions to national progress.
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